Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel

A Christmas Sabbatical

Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ;

I will be taking a week (plus today) from posting my daily studies. If anyone feels so inclined to share their own study for the coming week, (or any time for that matter), please feel free to do so, as it advances the Gospel of our Lord Savior Jesus Christ. 

Additionally it is my prayer and fondest hope that all of you have a wonderful, safe, Christmas, and God's rich blessings in your lives and that of your family and friends in the coming new year. May we all, each of us, never stray far from as the saying goes, the "reason for the season" and that His sacrifice, is always foremost in our minds. 

Indeed, as the old Christmas carol "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" says: "God and sinners reconciled"

Respectfully Yours I remain your humble servant in Christ; 

RPW. Sr.

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 9 Verses 6-7
6 This yet remember, that he which soweth sparingly,shall reap also sparingly, and he that sowethliberally, shall reap also liberally.7 As every man wisheth in his heart, so let himgive, not a,grudgingly, or of necessity: for God lovetha cheerful giver.
Related Scripture
Proverbs 11:24-25; Proverbs 22:9; Galatians 6:7-9; Psalm 112:9; Proverbs 21:6; Proverbs 19:17; James 4:17; Deuteronomy 15:7, 10; 1 Chronicles 29:17; Romans 12:8; Psalm 15:2; 

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 8 Verse 9
9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,that he being rich, for your sakes became poor, thatye through his poverty might be made rich.
Related Scripture
Matthew 8:20; Daniel 7:14; Matthew 9:6; Matthew 12:8; Matthew 13:41; Mark 8:31;  Philippians 2:6-7; Romans 9:5, 23; Hebrews 1:2-13; Colossians 1:15-16; 1 John 4:14-15; Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 3:18;

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 7 Verse 10
10 For godly sorrow causeth repentance untosalvation, not to be repented of: but the worldlysorrow causeth death.
Related Scripture
2 Samuel 12:13;  2 Samuel 24:10; Psalm 32:1-5, 10; Psalm 51:10; Matthew 26:75; Proverb 28:13; Proverbs 17:22; Psalm 22:15; Proverbs 14:30; Proverbs 15:13; Proverbs 18:14; Romans 6:23;  Romans 5:21; Romans 8:39; Matthew 25:46; 

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 7 Verse 1
1 Seeing then we have these promises, dearlybeloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthinessof the flesh and spirit, and finish our sanctificationin the fear of God.
Related Scripture
1 John 3:3; 1 John 4:17; 1 John 1:9;  Malachi 3:3; James 4:8; 1 Corinthians 5:7; Psalm 119:9; Matthew 23:26; 1 Thessalonians 4:4, 7;
Suggested additional reading 1 Thessalonians 4 in it’s entirety 

The Sunday Sermon

Teach Us to Pray ( Part 3)

by Billy Sunday 

Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.  

“And so it was, that as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” 

The Gospel of Luke Chapter 11 Verse 1

Pride Hinders Prayer

Pride keeps us from proper prayer. Being chesty and big-headed is responsible for more failures than anything else in this world. It has spoiled many a preacher, just as it has spoiled many an employee. Some fellows get a job and in about two weeks they think they know more about the business than the boss does. They think he is all wrong. It never occurs to them that it took some brains and some knowledge to build that business up and keep it running till they got there.

Here's two things to guard against. Don't get chesty over success, or discouraged over a seeming defeat.

"And when he prayed he said: 'Lazarus, come forth'; and he that was dead came forth" (John 11:43). If we prayed right we would raise men from sin and bring them forth into the light of righteousness.

"And as he prayed the fashion of his countenance was altered" (Luke 9:29).

If you are devoting your time and thoughts to society, your countenances will show it. If you pray, I can see that.

Every man who has helped to light up the dark places of the world has been a praying man. (Mark 4:21; Luke 8:16;) I never preach a sermon until I've soaked it in prayer. ( 1 Kings 8:28-29, 38, 45; Psalm 39:12; Psalm 54:2; Matthew 21:22; Acts 6:4;)  Never. Then I never forget to thank God for helping me when I preach. (Psalm 30:12; Ephesians 5:20; Colossians 3:17; Hebrews 13:15;) I don't care whether you read your prayers out of a book or whether you just say them, so long as you mean them. A man can read his prayers and go to heaven, or he may just say his prayers and go to hell. We've got to face conditions. When I read I find that all the saintly men who have done things from Pentecost until today, have known how to pray. 

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians Chapter 6
Dear Brethren in Christ;
Today’s study is as noted above the reading of chapter six (click link above) in it’s entirety. The reason behind this, is simply, that it speaks out on the life of one whose dedication is to the spreading of the Gospel of Christ. It describes the marks of the ministry, to which, we must all be partakers. While it is true that most of us cannot make that sort of dedication, (that is to say being as a full time missionary, or an ambassador, as was Paul and the other Apostles), we each of us can identify with it.  That we use the power of the Gospel to do all things in our lives as to the glory of God. To be His proxy on earth so that others might see, through our actions, and our lives what His love is towards His children. 
Related Scripture
Romans 8:35-37; 

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 6 Verse 2
2 For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted,and in the day of salvation have I succoredthee: behold now the accepted time, behold now theday of salvation.
Related Scripture
Isaiah 49:8; Psalm 69:13; Isaiah 42:6; Luke 4:19; Isaiah 61:1-2; Matthew 12:18;

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 5 Verse 19
19 For God was in Christ, and reconciled the worldto himself, not imputing their sins unto them, andhath committed to us the word of reconciliation. (a)
(a) Editor’s note - Imputing - Charging, attributing or ascribing; to the account of; To impute;1) To charge; to ascribe; to attribute; to set to the account of; to charge to one as the author, responsible originator, or possessor; -- generally in a bad sense.2)  To adjudge as one's own the sin or righteousness of another; i.e.  the righteousness of Christ is imputed to us. - Source Webster’s Dictionary Editions  1828 and 1913
Related Scripture
Romans 3:24; Hebrews 9:12-15; Acts 5:31; Acts 26:18; Ephesians 1:7; Ephesians 2:16; Colossians 1:14, 20; Psalm 49:15; Psalm 69:18; Nehemiah 1:6; 
Suggested additional reading - Hebrews 9

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 5 Verse 17
17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, let him be anew creature. Old things are passed away: behold,all things are become new.
Related Scripture
John 6:63; Romans 8:1-2, 9-11; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Isaiah 43:18, 25; Isaiah 65:16-18;  Ephesians 4:24; Revelation 21:2-6; 
Suggested additional reading Romans 6, Colossians 3

The Sunday Sermon

Teach Us to Pray ( Part 2)

by Billy Sunday 

Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.  

“And so it was, that as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” 

The Gospel of Luke Chapter 11 Verse 1

Learning of Christ (a)

"Teach us to pray," implies that I want to be taught. It's a great privilege to be taught by Jesus. A friend of mine was preaching out in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and had to go to a hospital in Chicago for an operation, and I was asked to go and preach in his place. Alexander was leading the singing, and one night Charles [Butler] called a little girl out of the audience to sing. She didn't look over four or five years of age, though she might have been a little older. I thought, "What's the use? Her little voice can never be heard over this crowd." But Charlie stood her up in a chair by the pulpit and she threw back her head and out rolled some of the sweetest music I have ever heard. It was wonderful. I sat there and the tears streamed down my cheeks. That little girl was the daughter of a Northwestern engineer and he took her to Chicago when her mother was away. Some one took her to Patti. Patti took the little girl to one of her suite of rooms and told her to stand there and sing. Then she went to the other end of the suite and sat down on a divan and listened. The song moved her to tears. She ran and hugged and kissed the little girl and sat her down on the divan and said to her: "Now you sit here and I'll go over there and sing." She took up her position where the child had stood, and she lifted her magnificent voice and she sang "Home, Sweet Home" and "The Last Rose of Summer" sang them for that little girl! And Patti used to get a thousand dollars for a song, too. She always knew how many songs she was to sing, for she had a check before she went on the platform. It was a great privilege the little daughter of that Northwestern engineer had, but it's a greater privilege to learn from Jesus Christ how to pray.

A friend of mine told me he went to hear Paganini, and the great violinist broke one of the strings of his instrument, then another, then another, until he had only one left, and on that one he played so wonderfully that his audience burst into terrific applause. It was a privilege to hear that, but it's a greater privilege to have Jesus teach you to pray.

Let us take a few examples from the life of Christ. In Mark we learn that he rose up early in the morning and went out to a solitary place and prayed (Mark 1:35). He began every day with prayer. You never get up without dressing. You never forget to wash your face and comb your hair. You always think of breakfast. You feed your physical body. Why do you starve your spiritual body? If nine-tenths of you were as weak physically as you are spiritually, you couldn't walk.

When I was assistant secretary of the Y.M.C.A. at Chicago, John G. Paton came home from the New Hebrides and was lecturing and collecting money. He was raising money to buy a sea-going steam yacht, for his work took him from island to island and he had to use a row-boat, and sometimes it was dangerous when the weather was bad, so he wanted the yacht. We had him for a week, and it was my privilege to go to lunch with him. We would go out to a restaurant at noon and he would talk to us. Sometimes there would be as many as fifteen or twenty preachers in the crowd, and now and then some of us were so interested in what he told us of the work for Jesus in those far-away islands that we forgot to eat. I remember that he said one day: "All that I am I owe to my Christian father and mother. My father was one of the most prayerful men I ever knew. Often in the daytime he would slip into his closet, and he would drop a handkerchief outside the door, and when we children saw the white sentinel we knew that father was talking with his God and would go quietly away. It is largely because of the life and influence of that same saintly father that I am preaching to the cannibals in the South Seas." It is an insult to God and a disgrace to allow children to grow up without throwing Christian influences around them. Seven-tenths of professing Christians have no family prayers and do not read the Bible. 

In the fourteenth chapter of Matthew ( Matthew 14:23) it is told that when Jesus had sent the multitudes away he went up into the mountain and was there alone with God. Jesus Christ never forgot to thank God for answering his prayers. Jesus asked him to help him feed the multitude, and he didn't neglect to thank him for it. Next time you pray don't ask God for anything. Just try to think of all the things you have to be thankful for, and tell him about them. (Ephesians 5:20; Colossians 3:17; Hebrews 13:15; )

(a) Editor’s thought - I am reminded here of the Gospel of Luke Chapter 10 Verses 38 - 42

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 5 Verse 15
15 and he died for all, that they which live, should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and roseagain.
Related Scripture 
Romans 6:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:10; Titus 2:12;  Galatians 1:4; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 1:21; 1 Corinthians 15:3; Hebrews 1:3; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 John 2:2; 1 John 3:5; Revelation 1:5; 
Suggested additional reading Romans 6 and Romans 7

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter Chapter 5 Verse 7
7 For we walk by faith, and not by sight.
Related Scripture
Romans 1:2; Romans 8:24; Hebrews 11:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:8; Titus 1:2; Titus 3:7; 

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 5 Verses 1, 5
1 For we know that if our earthly house of thistabernacle be destroyed, we have a building givenof God, that is, an house not made with hands, buteternal in the heavens.5 And he that hath created us for this thing, isGod, who also hath given unto us the earnest of theSpirit
Related Scripture
Job 4:19; 2 Corinthians 4:7; John 3:31; Hebrews 9:24; Mark 14:58; John 2:19, 21; Romans 8:23; Luke 20:36;  Ephesians 1:14;  Ephesians 4:30;

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 4 16, 18
16 Therefore we faint not, but though our outwardman perish, yet the inward man is renewed daily.18 While we look not on the things which areseen, but on the things which are not seen for thethings which are seen, are temporal: but the thingswhich are not seen, are eternal.
Related Scripture
Isaiah 40:29, 31; Job 17:9;  Galatians 6:9; Ephesians 3:13; 1 Samuel 16:7; 2 Corinthians 10:7; Colossians 3:10; Hebrews 11:1; Romans 15:4; Titus 2:13; Psalm 43:5; Psalm 103:5; Lamentations 3:24;
Suggested additional reading of Psalm 103 in it’s entirety. 

The Second Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the CorinthiansChapter 4 Verse 6
6 For God that commanded the light to shineout of darkness, is he which hath shined in our hearts,to give the light of the knowledge of the glory ofGod in the face of Jesus Christ. (a)
Editor’s note - The following is a commentary by a Ms. Margaret E. Thrall from a book I have been using as a study aid along with my daily reading;
“The reference is from Genesis 1:3, although it is not an exact quotation, since the words of Genesis run; And God said let there be light. In this context it is an allusion the creation of physical light. The light that Paul is speaking of however, is the spiritual and intellectual inward illumination which is the result of the knowledge of God’s nature which Christians posses through their knowledge of Jesus Christ. Paul’s comparison of this enlightenment with the original creation of light at the beginning of the the world implies that the bringing in existence of Christians by God, through the work of the Apostles, is like the fresh creation of the human race. To live as a Christian is to live a totally new kind of life.”
Related Scripture Genesis 1:3;  2 Peter 1:19; John 1:4-5, 9; John 8:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15; Ephesians 2:15; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; 

The Sunday Sermon

Teach Us to Pray ( Part 1)

by Billy Sunday 

Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.  

“And so it was, that as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” 

The Gospel of Luke Chapter 11 Verse 1

We live and develop physically by exercise. We are saved by faith, but we must work out our salvation by doing the things God wills. The more we do for God, the more God will do through us. Faith will increase by experience.

If you are a stranger to prayer you are a stranger to the greatest test source of power known to human beings. If we cared for our physical life in the same lackadaisical way that we care for,our spiritual, we would be as weak physically as we are spiritually. You go week in and week out without prayer. I want to be a giant for God. You don't even sing; you let the choir do it. You go to prayer-meeting and offer no testimony.

You are a stranger to the great privilege that is offered to human beings. Some of the greatest blessings that people enjoy come from prayer. In earnest prayer you think as the Lord directs, and lose yourself in him. 

 

Some people say: "It's no use to pray. The Lord knows everything, anyway." That's true. He does. He is not limited, as I am limited. He knows everything and has known it since before the world was. [For what God knows, doesn't know, and chooses not to know, see omniscience]. We don't know everybody who is going to be converted at this revival, but that doesn't relieve us of our duty. We don't know, and we must do the work he has commanded us to do.

Others say: "But I don't get what I pray for." Well, there's a cause for everything. Get at the cause and you'll be all right. If you are sick and send for the doctor, he pays no attention to the disease, but looks at what produced it. If you have a headache, don't rub your forehead. In Matthew it is written, "Ask and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you" (Matthew 7:7). If your prayers are not answered you may not be right with God. If you have no faith, if your motive is wrong, then your prayers will be in vain. Many times when people pray they are selfish. They are not gripping the word. I believe that when many a wife prays for the conversion of her husband it isn't because she really desires the salvation of his soul, but because she thinks if he were converted things would be easier for her personally. Pray for your neighbors as well as your own family.  Oh, the curse of selfishness! The Church is dying for religion, for religion pure and undefiled. Pure religion and undefiled is visiting the widow and the fatherless (James 1:27) and doing the will of God without so much thought of yourself. I tell you, a lot of people are fooling themselves these days. 

Isaiah says the hand of God is not shortened and his ear is not deaf (Isaiah 59:1). No, his hand is not shortened so that it cannot save. He has provided agencies by which we can be saved. If he had made no provision for your salvation, then the trouble would be with God; but he has provided, so trouble is with you.

In Ezekiel we read that men have taken idols into their hearts and put stumbling-blocks before their faces (Ezekiel 14:3). God is not going to hear you if you place clothes, money, pride of relationship before him. You know there is sin in your life. Many people know there is sin in their lives, yet ask God to bless them. They ought first to get down on their knees and pray, "God be merciful to me a sinner" (Luke 18:13).

Some people are too contemptibly stingy for God to hear them. When you stand praying, forgive if you have aught against anyone. (Matthew 6:12-15; Matthew 18:21, 25; Luke 6:37; 2 Corinthians 2:7,10; 1John 1:9;) It's no use to pray if you have a mean, miserable disposition, if you are grouchy, if you quarrel in your home or with your neighbors. It's no use to pray for a blessing when you have a fuss on with your neighbors. ( Ephesians 4:26;)The spirit of God flees from strife and discord. (Proverbs 6:14, 19; Proverbs 29:22; Romans 13:13; 1 Corinthians 3:3; 1 Timothy 6:2-6; James 3:14-16;)

Prayer draws you nearer to God. ( Psalm 73:28; Hebrews 4:16; Hebrews 10:22; Hebrews 13:6; )

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 4 Verses 3-4
3 If the Gospel be then hid, it is hid to themthat are lost.4 In whom the god of this world hath blindedthe minds, that is, of the unbelievers, that the light ofthe glorious Gospel of Christ, which is the imageof God, should not shine unto them.
Related Scripture
1 Corinthians 1:18; Psalm 83:17; Job 6:18; John 12:31, 40; 1 John 1:5-10; 
Suggested additional reading 1 John 2

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians
Chapter 4 Verses 1-2

1 Therefore, seeing that we have this ministry,
as we have received mercy, we faint not:
2 But have cast from us the cloaks of shame, and
walk not in craftiness, neither handle we the word
of God deceitfully: but in declaration of the truth
we approve ourselves to every man’s conscience in
the sight of God.

Related Scripture

1 Peter 1:3; Romans 11:30-32; Hebrews 4:16; Deuteronomy31:6; Joshua 1:9; Ezra 10:4; Psalm 27:14; Psalm 31:24; Isaiah 41:6; 1 Corinthians 16:13; Galatians 5:1; Philippians 1:27; Philippians 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:8; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; Romans 14:18; 1 Corinthians 11:19;  2 Corinthians 7:11; 2 Corinthians 10:18; 2 Timothy 2:15;

Suggested Additional Reading 2 Timothy 2

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 3 Verse 18
18 But we all behold as in a mirror the glory ofthe Lord with open face, and are changed into thesame image, from glory to glory, as by the Spirit ofthe Lord.
Related Scripture
1 Corinthians 13:12;  2 Corinthians 4:4, 6; Romans 8:29-30; Colossians 3:10; Ephesians 4:23-24;Ecclesiastes 8:1;  
Suggested additional reading Ephesians 4

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 3 Verse 16
16 Nevertheless when their heart shall be turnedto the Lord, the veil shall be taken away. (a)
(a) Editor’s note - The veil of the temple separated the Holy of Holies from the people. In effect, it said that one could not approach the throne of God, (for our sins were such that God could not accept us in our imperfection), wherein was kept the mercy seat. Once our Savior died and became the sacrifice for all of our sins that curtain, that veil, was removed once and forever thus saying that our Creator has redeemed us from the curse of the Law. 
Related Scripture
Matthew 27:51;  Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45;  Exodus 26:31-37; Romans 11:23; Isaiah 25:7; Ephesians 4:18; 
Suggested additional reading Romans 11

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 3 Verses 14-15
14 Therefore their minds are hardened: for untilthis day remaineth the same covering untaken awayin the reading of the old Testament, which veil inChrist is put away.15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read,the veil is laid over their hearts
Related Scripture
Isaiah 6:10; Isaiah 29:10; Acts 28:26; Romans 11:7-8; 1 Samuel 6:6; Psalm 81:12; Isaiah 44:18; Hebrews 3:15; John 12:40; 2 Timothy 3:8; Matthew 13:13-15; 

Realizing God's Plan In Life (Part Six)
by Archibald T. Robertson
Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

12 Wherefore my beloved, as ye have always obeyed me, not as in my presence only, but now
much more in mine absence, so make an end of your own salvation with fear and trembling.
13 For it is God which worketh in you both the will and the deed, even of his good pleasure.
14 Do all things without murmuring and reasonings,
15 That ye may be blameless, and pure, and the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of
a naughty and crooked nation, among whom ye shine as blights in the world,
16 Holding forth the word of life, that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither have labored in vain.
17 Yea, and though I be offered up upon the sacrifice, and service of your faith, I am glad, and
rejoice with you all.
18 For the same cause also be ye glad, and rejoice with me.

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Philippians Chapter 2 Verses 12-18

Mutual Joy (verses 17-18)

"I joy and rejoice with you all," says Paul. He is glad by himself to make the offering of his life, if this supreme sacrifice is demanded. He will not shrink back, but will meet it gladly, and all the more readily since he can share his joy with them. Fellowship is a blessed reality. Paul is glad on his own account that he has been the instrument in their salvation . He is still more joyful at the experiences of grace which they have in Christ. Joy is not selfish, but wishes company. The woman in who found her lost piece of money called in her women friends and said: "Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I had lost." So the shepherd who found the one lost sheep said to his friends: "Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost" So the father says: "Make merry, for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." (Luke 15:6, 9, 20-24). The child all aglow with his Christmas toys wishes other children to come and share his joys. "And in the same manner do ye also joy, and rejoice with me." Play up to your part of the joy. Plutarch tells of the messenger from Marathon who expired on the first threshold in Athens with these words on his lips: "Rejoice and we rejoice." Nowhere in the Epistle is Paul so insistent about joy as here. The Christian is rich in his joy in Christ. What joy it will be in heaven to tell the story of the triumph of Christ over sin in your life and in mine. ( Isaiah 61:10; Job 33:26; Romans 14:17)

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 3 Verses 9, 11
9 For if the ministry of condemnation wasglorious, much more doth the ministration ofrighteousness exceed in glory.11 For if that they should be abolished, wasglorious, much more shall that which remaineth beglorious.
Related Scripture
Romans 1:16-19; Romans 3:19-25; Romans 9:30; Acts 15:5-19;
Suggested additional reading Galatians 3

46 For in the days of David and Asaph, of old werechief singers, and songs of praise and thanksgivingunto God.Nehemiah 12:46

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 3 Verses 3, 6
3 In that ye are manifest, to be the Epistle ofChrist, ministered by us, and written, not with ink,but with the Spirit of the living God, not in tablesof stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart.6 Who also hath made us able ministers of theNew Testament, not of the letter, but of the Spirit:for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life.
Editor’s thought - The OT was of the law, that is to say it was a guide unto the coming of the promise made by God to raise up a redeemer; Jesus Christ, and from thereon the NT would be known by all peoples, as it was written on one’s heart, and one would know what was right and wrong instinctively. 
Related Scripture
Psalm 40:3; Psalm 51:10; Acts 13:22; 1 Samuel 13:14; Jeremiah 31:31-33; Jeremiah 32:40; Jeremiah 33:14-15; Ezekiel 11:19-20; Ezekiel 36:26-27;  Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 8:8-13; Hebrews 10:16-17; Hebrews 12:24; 
Suggested additional reading Hebrews 8

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians Chapter 2 Verses 14-16
14 Now thanks be unto God, which always makethus to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest thesavor of his knowledge by us in every place.15 For we are unto God the sweet savor of Christ,in them that are saved, and in them which perish.16 To the one we are the savor of death, unto death,and to the other the savor of life, unto life: and whois sufficient for these things?
Related Scripture
Genesis 8:21; 1 Corinthians 1:18-20; 1 Corinthians 2:6, 14; 1 Corinthians 3:19; 1 Corinthians 15:1-3; Philippians 4:18;  2 Corinthians 4:3-4;  Luke 2:26-34; Luke 12:4-5; 
Suggested additional reading for today Acts 17 and 2 Peter 2 

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 2 Verses 7, 10 (a)
7 So that now contrariwise ye ought rather toforgive him, and comfort him, lest the same shouldbe swallowed up with overmuch heaviness.10 To whom ye forgive anything, I forgive also: forverily if I forgave anything, to whom I forgave it, foryour sakes forgave I it in the sight of Christ,

(a) Editor’s thought - I once had a pastor who said something along these lines; that anger, leads to non-forgiveness and non-forgiveness leads to hatred. It is likened to drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. Yesterday, my pastor spoke on forgiveness, and he also had some wonderful insight. ( btw, I had just read these verses the day before and was mulling over it’s meanings and how it related to me), He said that when one does not forgive it is like being a jailer. Yes the offender is behind bars, but the jailer must sit outside the cell day in, day out to be certain he stays there in his punishment. So who then is really free? Neither, for the offender is saddled with one’s debt, the burden of committing offense, and the recipient of that offense is also in bondage, making sure that the former is never set free of guilt,  and is ever reminded. Forgiveness sets both of them free. Let us be, as the Psalmist has said; Slow to anger and quick to forgive. 
Related Scripture
Psalm 37:8; Psalm 103:8;  Psalm 145:8; Proverbs 15:18; Proverbs 16:22; Joel 2:13; Matthew 6:12-15; Mark 11:25-26; Luke 6:37; Luke 17:3-4; 1 John 1:9;

Suggested additional study/reading for today Matthew 18 and to think on the below. If I might be allowed to step outside of God’s Word for moment;

The quality of mercy is not strained. It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath. It is twice blest: It blesseth him that gives and him that takes. Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown. His scepter shows the force of temporal power, The attribute to awe and majesty, Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings. But mercy is above this sceptered sway; It is enthroned in the hearts of kings; It is an attribute of God himself; And earthly power doth then show like God's When mercy seasons justice.Therefore;Though justice be thy plea, consider this:That in the course of justice none of usShould see salvation. We do pray for mercy,And that same prayer doth teach us all to render The deeds of mercy.
William Shakespeare - The Merchant of Venice - Act IV Scene I

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter 1 Verse 22
22 Who hath also sealed us, and hath given theearnest of the Spirit in our hearts. (a)
(a) Editor’s note - From the notations of the Geneva Bible Translation - “An earnest, is, whatsoever is given to confirm a promise.” That promise is of course would be the bringing forth of a Saviour who would redeem us from sin and death, and reconcile us to God the Father. Hence as we read the verses linked below in The Book of Isaiah Chapter 7. I would think then that an earnest is a sign. 
Related Scripture
Ephesians 4:30; Isaiah 7:14-16; John 6:30-37; Ephesians 1:13; 

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians Chapter 1 Verses 9-10
9 Yea, we received the sentence of death in ourselves,because we should not rest in ourselves, butin God, which raised the dead.10 Who delivered us from so great a death, anddoth deliver us: in whom we trust, that yet hereafterhe will deliver us.
Related Scripture
Jeremiah 17:5-8; Proverbs 3:5; Psalm 146:3; Isaiah 30:1-2; Isaiah 31:1-3; 2 Peter 2:9; Psalm 118:8-9; Psalm 20:7; 
Suggested additional reading Psalm 34

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the CorinthiansChapter One Verses 3-5
3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our LordJesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God ofall comfort,4 Which comforteth us in all our tribulation,that we may be able to comfort them which are inany affliction by the comfort wherewith we ourselvesare comforted of God.5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us,so our consolation aboundeth through Christ.
Related Scripture
Ephesians. 1:3; 1 Peter 1:3; Psalm 66:8, 20; Isaiah 51:12; Isaiah 66:13; Psalm 94:19; 2 Corinthians 7:6-7, 13; John 14:16, 26; John 15:26; John 16:7; Psalm 3419;  Acts 9:4; 2 Corinthians 4:10; Philippians 3:10; Colossians 1:24; Hebrews 2:9; 

The Book of JobChapter 42 Verses 5-6, 10
5 I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear,but now mine eye seeth thee.6 Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dustand ashes.10 Then the Lord turned the captivity (a) of Job,when he prayed for his friends: also the Lord gaveJob twice so much as he had before.
(a) Editor’s note - He removed the afflictions that had come upon Job, in which Job had been held captive. 
Related Scripture
Job 26:14; Romans 10:17; Luke 4:4; Revelation 3:20; Isaiah 28:22-23. 26; Ezra 9:6; Daniel 9:8; Luke 13:3;  Proverbs 28:13; Deuteronomy 30:3; Psalm 14:7; Psalm 85:1-3; Psalm 126:1 Isaiah 40:1-2; Psalm 23:3-5; 1 John 1:9;

The Book of JobChapter 42 Verses 2-3
2 I know that thou canst do all things, and thatthere is no thought hid from thee.3 Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge?therefore have I spoken that I understoodnot, even things too wonderful for me, and whichI knew not
Related Scripture
Genesis 18:14; Isaiah 59:1; Matthew 19:26; Mark 14:36; Psalm 40:5; Psalm 139:17; Romans 11:33-36; Isaiah 55:7-11;
 Suggested additional reading for today Psalm 66, Psalm 68, Isaiah 55

The Book of JobChapters 40-41
On Saturday my study included two chapters of the Book of Job, wherein God chastises Job. Today’s study likewise is two chapters long. Herein God asks of Job, who is like He, that is to say who is likened or can compare themselves unto God. 
Provided Link
Job 40
 1Moreover the LORD answered Job, and said,
 2Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.
 3Then Job answered the LORD, and said,
 4Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.
 5Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.
 6Then answered the LORD unto Job out of the whirlwind, and said,
 7Gird up thy loins now like a man: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me.
 8Wilt thou also disannul my judgment? wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be righteous?
 9Hast thou an arm like God? or canst thou thunder with a voice like him?
 10Deck thyself now with majesty and excellency; and array thyself with glory and beauty.
 11Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one that is proud, and abase him.
 12Look on every one that is proud, and bring him low; and tread down the wicked in their place.
 13Hide them in the dust together; and bind their faces in secret.
 14Then will I also confess unto thee that thine own right hand can save thee.
 15Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.
 16Lo now, his strength is in his loins, and his force is in the navel of his belly.
 17He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together.
 18His bones are as strong pieces of brass; his bones are like bars of iron.
 19He is the chief of the ways of God: he that made him can make his sword to approach unto him.
 20Surely the mountains bring him forth food, where all the beasts of the field play.
 21He lieth under the shady trees, in the covert of the reed, and fens.
 22The shady trees cover him with their shadow; the willows of the brook compass him about.
 23Behold, he drinketh up a river, and hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his mouth.
 24He taketh it with his eyes: his nose pierceth through snares.
Job 41
 1Canst thou draw out leviathan with an hook? or his tongue with a cord which thou lettest down?
 2Canst thou put an hook into his nose? or bore his jaw through with a thorn?
 3Will he make many supplications unto thee? will he speak soft words unto thee?
 4Will he make a covenant with thee? wilt thou take him for a servant for ever?
 5Wilt thou play with him as with a bird? or wilt thou bind him for thy maidens?
 6Shall the companions make a banquet of him? shall they part him among the merchants?
 7Canst thou fill his skin with barbed irons? or his head with fish spears?
 8Lay thine hand upon him, remember the battle, do no more.
 9Behold, the hope of him is in vain: shall not one be cast down even at the sight of him?
 10None is so fierce that dare stir him up: who then is able to stand before me?
 11Who hath prevented me, that I should repay him? whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine.
 12I will not conceal his parts, nor his power, nor his comely proportion.
 13Who can discover the face of his garment? or who can come to him with his double bridle?
 14Who can open the doors of his face? his teeth are terrible round about.
 15His scales are his pride, shut up together as with a close seal.
 16One is so near to another, that no air can come between them.
 17They are joined one to another, they stick together, that they cannot be sundered.
 18By his neesings a light doth shine, and his eyes are like the eyelids of the morning.
 19Out of his mouth go burning lamps, and sparks of fire leap out.
 20Out of his nostrils goeth smoke, as out of a seething pot or caldron.
 21His breath kindleth coals, and a flame goeth out of his mouth.
 22In his neck remaineth strength, and sorrow is turned into joy before him.
 23The flakes of his flesh are joined together: they are firm in themselves; they cannot be moved.
 24His heart is as firm as a stone; yea, as hard as a piece of the nether millstone.
 25When he raiseth up himself, the mighty are afraid: by reason of breakings they purify themselves.
 26The sword of him that layeth at him cannot hold: the spear, the dart, nor the habergeon.
 27He esteemeth iron as straw, and brass as rotten wood.
 28The arrow cannot make him flee: slingstones are turned with him into stubble.
 29Darts are counted as stubble: he laugheth at the shaking of a spear.
 30Sharp stones are under him: he spreadeth sharp pointed things upon the mire.
 31He maketh the deep to boil like a pot: he maketh the sea like a pot of ointment.
 32He maketh a path to shine after him; one would think the deep to be hoary.
 33Upon earth there is not his like, who is made without fear.
 34He beholdeth all high things: he is a king over all the children of pride.

Realizing God's Plan In Life (Part Five)
by Archibald T. Robertson
Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

12 Wherefore my beloved, as ye have always obeyed me, not as in my presence only, but now
much more in mine absence, so make an end of your own salvation with fear and trembling.
13 For it is God which worketh in you both the will and the deed, even of his good pleasure.
14 Do all things without murmuring and reasonings,
15 That ye may be blameless, and pure, and the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a naughty and crooked nation, among whom ye shine as blights in the world,
16 Holding forth the word of life, that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither have labored in vain.
17 Yea, and though I be offered up upon the sacrifice, and service of your faith, I am glad, and
rejoice with you all.
18 For the same cause also be ye glad, and rejoice with me.

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Philippians Chapter 2 Verses 12-18

Paul's Sacrifice (verse 17)

"Yea, though I am offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith," Paul adds. He will not shrink from death in order to be of service to them and to help them in their efforts to press on in the Christian life. He hopes to live, but he stands in the constant presence of death, and he is not afraid. He had faced death at Philippi and often since. It will come some day. He is ready now. It is not his apostolic office, but his very life that he offers. (2 Timothy 4:6; 2 Peter 1:14;)The picture here is of their faith in the sense of their Christian life as a sacrifice and priestly service. The Philippians as priests lay down upon the altar their Christian lives (faith and fidelity). Upon' this Paul is ready to pour out his own life as an additional sacrifice in their service. (John 15:13; 1 John 3:16;) It is not necessary to press the point whether Paul has in mind the Jewish custom of pouring the drink offering around the altar or the heathen of pouring the libation upon the altar. The latter would be more familiar to the Philippians but the point holds good in either case. Paul is willing to spend and be spent in the service of the Philippians ( 2 Corinthians 12:15; 2 Timothy 2:10;). One thinks of the student volunteers who offer their lives for mission service, and thusly doing what is commanded to us by Christ, that is to say make disciples of all mankind. (Matthew 28:19;)

The Book of JobChapters 38 and 39. 
Today’s study is rather lengthy, but it will take us to Monday’s study. For herein God chastises Job, but does so within in the framework of correction as He reveals his Omnipotence to Job. Take your time and pause as you read to reflect on what God is saying to us. 
Provided link

The Book of Job Chapter 37 Verses 23-24
23 It is the Almighty: we cannot find him out: heis excellent in power and judgment, and abundantin justice: he afflicteth not.24 Let men therefore fear him: for he will notregard any that are wise in their own conceit.
Related Scripture
Job 11:7-8; Romans 11:33-34; 1 Timothy 6:16; Job 9:4; Job 36:5; Psalm 89:22; Zephaniah 3:19; Matthew 10:28; Matthew 11:25; 1 Corinthians 1:19-21, 25; Job 5:12-13; 
Suggested Additional reading for today Lamentations 3

The Book of JobChapter 37 Verse 7
7 He sealeth up the hand of every man; that all men may know his work.
Related Scripture
Psalm 109:27; 1 John 2:3; Psalm 19:1-3; Isaiah 40:21-22; Romans 1:19; 

The Book of JobChapter 36 Verse 24-25Chapter 37 Verses 5, 14
24 Remember that thou magnify his work, whichmen behold.25 All men see it, and men behold it afar off.
5 God thundereth marvelously with his voice:he worketh great things, which we know not.14 Hearken unto this, O Job: stand and considerthe wondrous works of God.
Related Scripture
Psalm 92:5; Revelations 15:3; Psalm 69:30; Psalm 99:5, 9; Hebrews 11:3; 1 Samuel 12:24; Job 5:9; Job 9:10; Jeremiah 33:3; Psalm 143:5; Psalm 77:11-14;
Suggested additional reading Psalm 111

The Book of JobChapter 36 Verses 22-23
22 Behold, God exalteth by his power: what teacheris like him?23 Who hath appointed to him his way? or whocan say, Thou hast done wickedly?
Related Scripture
Psalm 46:10;  Psalm 62:11; Psalm 150:1; Jeremiah 32:17; Job 34:13; Isaiah 40:13;  Romans 11:34; 1 Corinthians 2:16; Deuteronomy 32:4; Job 8:3; 

The Book of JobChapter 36 Verse 21
21 Take thou heed: look not to iniquity: for thouhast chosen it rather than affliction.
Related Scripture
Psalm 31:6; Psalm 66:18; Job 31:3; Job 34:8; Psalm 5:5; Psalm 37:1; Psalm 1:1; Luke 13:27; Hebrews 11:25; Psalm 34:19; Acts 7:9-10; 2 Corinthians 6:2-7; 1 Thessalonians 3:3-4; 2 Timothy 4:5; Hebrews 10:32-33; 1 Peter 5:9;  Romans 14:18; 2 Timothy 2:15

The Sunday Sermon

Realizing God's Plan In Life (Part Four)
by Archibald T. Robertson
Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

12 Wherefore my beloved, as ye have always obeyed me, not as in my presence only, but now much more in mine absence, so make an end of your own salvation with fear and trembling.
13 For it is God which worketh in you both the will and the deed, even of his good pleasure.
14 Do all things without murmuring and reasonings,
15 That ye may be blameless, and pure, and the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a naughty and crooked nation, among whom ye shine as blights in the world,
16 Holding forth the word of life, that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither have labored in vain.
17 Yea, and though I be offered up upon the sacrifice, and service of your faith, I am glad, and rejoice with you all.
18 For the same cause also be ye glad, and rejoice with me.

Paul's Pride (verse 16)

"For a ground of glorying in the day of Christ." This clause is related to all of verse 15 and the preceding part of 16. The day of accounts comes to figure more largely in Paul's mind as he grows older. The writer of Hebrews (a) speaks of the sleepless watch of the shepherds of souls "as they that shall give account; that they may do this with joy, and not with grief; for this were unprofitable for you." (Hebrews 13:17; Luke 17:7-10;) Paul longs' to have "whereof to glory" in the day of Christ. The success of the Philippians will give Paul something tangible to present to Christ. They will be stars in his crown. He means by "day of Christ" the judgment day, commonly termed the day of the Lord outside of this Epistle. Paul does not wish to be saved "so as by fire" with all his works gone. (I Corinthians 3:15) When that day comes and Paul looks back upon his work in Philippi, he does wish to feel "that I did not run in vain neither labor in vain." He has the metaphor of the stadium before him as in Galatians 2:2 (Philippians 2:16;) when he expresses the same dread about the Galatians. He does not wish it all to come to nothingness. The word for labor here means the weariness of labor. Toil and sweat and weariness were all for naught. It is a pitiful case when the preacher has to see the people go back to the flesh-pots of Egypt and leave his work null and void. The Philippians will be Paul's jewels in the presence of Christ as the mother of the Gracchi boasted of her boys.

(a) Editor’s Note - Many Biblical scholars think that The Epistle to the Hebrews was written by Paul the Apostle, but, there is no conclusive proof. However, Paul, being the expert on Jewish Law that he was prior to his conversion on the Road to Damascus, and the fact that the usage of similar words, analogies, and styling would indicate that it is highly probable that at the very least he had a hand in writing this chapter.

The Book of Job

Chapter 36 Verses 11-12

11 If they obey and serve him, they shall end

their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures:

12 But if they will not obey, they shall pass by the

sword and perish without knowledge.

Related Scripture

Isaiah 1:16-20; Deuteronomy 29:9; Joshua 1:7; 1 Chronicles 22:13; 2 Chronicles 24:20; Proverbs 28:13; Joshua 23:16; Job 8:13; Isaiah 60:12; Luke 13:3-5; 2 Peter 2:12;

Suggested additional reading Hosea 4; Leviticus 26;

The Book of Job

Chapter 36 Verses 9-10

9 Then will he show them their work and their

sins, because they have been proud.

10 He openeth also their ear to discipline, and

commandeth them that they return from iniquity.

Related Scripture

1 Kings 8:49-52; Psalm 25:7; Psalm 32:5; Psalm 39:8; Psalm 51:3; Isaiah 44:22; Isaiah 59:12; Ezekiel 18:22, 28; Hebrews 9:15; Psalm 119:78; Psalm 49:4; Psalm 78:1; Proverbs 4:20, 27; Job 22:23; Jeremiah 36:3; Job 11:14; Jeremiah 18:8; Jeremiah 26:3; Ezekiel 33:11; Daniel 9:13; Jonah 3:8; Zechariah 1:4;

The Book of Job

Chapter 36 Verses 2-3

2 Suffer me a little and I will instruct thee: for I

have yet to speak on God’s behalf.

3 I will fetch my knowledge afar off, and will

attribute righteousness unto my maker.

Related Scripture

Exodus 35:31; Deuteronomy 18:18; Isaiah 51:16; Jeremiah 1:4-9; 1 Peter 4:11; 1 Kings 3:28; 1 Kings 4:29; 1 Chronicles 22:12; 2 Chronicles1:11; Ezra 7:25; Job 11:6; Daniel 2:20; Luke 2:40; Romans 11:33; 1 Corinthians 1:20-26; 1 Corinthians 2:7; Ephesians 3:10; James 1:5;

The Book of Job

Chapter 36 Verse 7

7 He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous,

but they are with kings in the throne, where

he placeth them forever: thus they are exalted. (a)

Editor’s Note - From the notations in the Geneva Bible translation; He preferreth the godly to honor.

Related Scripture

Psalm 33:18; Psalm 34:15; Psalm 75:10; Psalm 113:8; Luke 22:30; Matthew 23:12; James 1:9;

The Book of Job

Chapter 36 Verses 5-6

5 Behold, the mighty God casteth away none

that is mighty and valiant of courage.

6 He maintaineth not the wicked, but he giveth

judgment to the afflicted

Related Scripture

Job 8:20; Luke 9:25; Romans 11:1; Psalm 51:11; Psalm 43:5; Jeremiah 6:15; 2 Corinthians 4:9; Psalm 37:34-39; Job 5:11-15;

Suggested additional reading Psalm 99

The Book of Job

Chapter 34 Verse 29

29 And when he giveth quietness, who can make

trouble? and when he hideth his face, who can

behold him, whether it be upon nations, or upon a

man only?

Related Scripture

Lamentation 3:26; Psalm 107:30; Proverbs 1:33; Isaiah 32:18; 1 Thessalonians 4:11; 1 Timothy 2:2; Romans 8:31; Micah 3:4; Psalm 18:41; Proverbs 1:28; Isaiah 1:15; Jeremiah 11:11;

Suggested additional reading for today Psalm 27

The Sunday Sermon

Realizing God's Plan In Life (Part Three)

by Archibald T. Robertson

Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

12 Wherefore my beloved, as ye have always obeyed me, not as in my presence only, but nowmuch more in mine absence,so make an end of your own salvation with fear and trembling.

13 For it is God which worketh in you both the will and the deed, even of his good pleasure.

14 Do all things without murmuring and reasonings,

15 That ye may be blameless, and pure, and the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a naughty and crooked nation, among whom ye shine as blights in the world,

16 Holding forth the word of life, that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in

vain, neither have labored in vain.

17 Yea, and though I be offered up upon the sacrifice, and service of your faith, I am glad, and rejoice with you all.

18 For the same cause also be ye glad, and rejoice with me.

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Philippians

Chapter 2 Verses 12-18

Perfection in the Midst of Imperfection (verses 15-16)

Paul here expresses his purpose about the Philippians. It is a double purpose, their own highest development and the greatest service to others. The first is a prerequisite to the other, though they can- not be wholly separated. They are to become "blameless and harmless." They are not so in the state of nature and do not easily become so in a state of grace. Certainly none are absolutely free from blame in the eye of God and men can usually find some fault with most of us. But, at any rate, we can give men as little ground as possible to pick flaws in our character. Whimsical critics cannot be satisfied, but we do have to regard the sober judgment of God's people in ethical matters. takes "harmless" to refer to the intrinsic character as in Matthew 10:16 "harmless as doves." The word means literally "unmixed" or "unadulterated" like pure milk or pure wine or unalloyed metal.

In Romans 16:19 Paul says; "I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple unto that which is evil," a noble motto for young and old. It is a great mistake to feel that one must know evil by experience in order to appreciate good. An unsullied character a man wants in his wife and the wife equally so in her husband. It is this sheer simplicity of character that is so delightful in children and, par excellence in the "children of God" in the full spiritual import of this term. The children of Israel, when they murmured, were not acting like children of God. Paul here quotes Deuteronomy 32:5 and applies it to the Philippians. The children of Israel were full of blemish, while the Philippians are to be "without blemish" (Ephesians5:27) like the freewill offering (Leviticus. 22:21). The Israelites had themselves become " a crooked and perverse generation." (Matthew 17:17) But the Philippians must not fall to that low level, as they will if they give way to inward discontent. They must exhibit marks of perfection "in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation." It is an indocile or froward and

so "crooked" (Acts 2:40; I Peter 2:18) generation. The word was used of crooked paths (Luke 3:5) and so of crooked steps and crooked ways. The word "perverse"' means twisted or distorted and is a bolder word like the Scotch '"thrawn" with a twist in the inner nature of mankind. Surely our own generation is not without its moral twist and means many straight men when so many are crooked ("crooks"), twisted out of shape.

Paul changes his figure, but goes on with the same idea, "among whom ye are seen as lights in the world." These are the very people, the twisted and blinded by the darkness of sin, ( John 12:40; Romans 11:7; 2 Corinthians 3:14; 2 Corinthians 4:4; 1 John 2:11)who need the light. Jesus is the real light of the world (John 8:12), but the followers of Christ also pass on the torch and so bear light to others (Matthew 5 : 14). Here the Philippians are pictured as " luminaries " ^ rather than as lights in the world of darkness. As the moon and the stars "appear" in the night, so the Christians come out to give light in the darkness. In the dark night of sin the church of Philippi is a lighthouse in the breakers ( Luke 8:16), "holding forth the word of life." The gospel has the principle of life in it John's Gospel unites light and life as descriptive of the Logos (John 1:4) and Christ offers to men "the light of life " (John 8:12). Paul naturally blends the two figures here. One may rightly call it "hypercritical" to change the figure in "holding forth. It is common to personify a luminary as a light-bearer." The figure can be either holding on to the word of life or presenting the word of life. In this latter sense one naturally thinks of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, holding forth the torch of freedom. Every church is a lighthouse in a dark place. The darker the place the more the light is needed. It is sad to see so many churches deserting the downtown districts where they are so much needed. Rescue work must be carried on where sin has done its worst. It is like fighting the plague. Thank God for the men and women who do take the light into the dark corners of our cities.