 Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . . Psalm 119:18 (ESV) 2 Timothy 3:3 (NIV84) without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, The Holy Bible: New International Version (2 Ti 3:3). (1984). Zondervan.
Our focus is on the Greek word unforgiving. This comes from the description of people in the latter days by Paul. Look at the news tonight and see if it appears in the behavior of various groups. 3:1–5. As in his previous letter, Paul warned Timothy about the collapse predicted for the last days (cf. 1 Tim. 4:1–3), a term which includes the entire period between the first century and Christ’s return. During this interim, according to the prediction, the world will see terrible times of societal degeneration. Paul gave an extraordinary list (cf. Rom. 1:28–32) of 19 general characteristics believers should expect. People will be: (1) lovers of themselves (philautoi, “self-centered, narcissistic”); (2) lovers of money (philargyroi; cf. 1 Tim. 6:9–10); (3) boastful—the outward manifestation of the fact that inwardly they are (4) proud (“arrogant”); (5) abusive toward others, which translates blasphēmoi (“blasphemers”). Several of the words which follow begin in the Greek with the prefix a=, meaning “without” (as in moral-amoral, theist-atheist), signifying absence of the designated virtue. Thus people will be (6) disobedient (apeitheis) to their parents; (7) ungrateful (acharistoi); (8) unholy (anosioi); (9) without love (astorgoi, trans. “heartless” in Rom. 1:31, the only other place it is used in the NT); (10) unforgiving (aspondoi). Diaboloi, a word usually translated “devil” (cf. 1 Tim. 3:6–7; 2 Tim. 2:26), is used here with the root meaning (11) slanderous; (12) without self-control (akrateis); (13) brutal (anēmeroi, lit., “untamed,” the opposite of civilized); Litfin, A. D. (1985). 2 Timothy. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 2, p. 756). Victor Books. The same evident reversal of moral values is also seen in five of the six vices mentioned in verse 3, the only word without the negative prefix being slanderous (diaboloi). The word translated unforgiving (aspondos) literally means ‘without a truce’, and therefore ‘implacable’. It describes an hostility so intense that a truce is impossible. Guthrie, D. (1990). Pastoral Epistles: An Introduction and Commentary (Vol. 14, pp. 174–175). InterVarsity Press. The hostility against Judaeo-Christian values in our societies is unbelievable. But Paul warned us about the atmosphere in the last days. Jesus will bring the peace when He comes. Thank the Lord for His promises. Cathy and Danny Sartin www.deeperstillmissions.com __________________________ The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Ps 119:18). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved. Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions.
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 Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . . Psalm 119:18 (ESV)
The topic of the last days is a constant subject among Christians today. We see so much change morally and intellectually. We have touched on the end times discussions numerous times over the last three years. The role of the church, the rapture, and traits of men in the last days as described in 2 Timothy chapter three. Recently I was asked about the witnesses sealed in the book of Revelation. Consider the thoughts of a favorite writer from Dallas Theological Seminary, Roy Gingrich. 2. The two visions connected with this interlude a. The first vision—The vision of the sealing of the 144,000 (7:1–8) (1) The four angels of judgment (7:1) These four angels hold back God’s judgments (the “four winds” from the “four corners of the earth”) until God’s cup of wrath is full. Then they execute God’s wrath (which hurts the earth and the sea). (2) The angel of restraint (7:2, 3) He restrains the four angels from releasing the four winds of judgment until the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. (3) The sealed one hundred and forty four thousand (a) Who are they? 1). Negative—This group is not the church, as some theologians teach, neither is it a cult group, or a group of sinless overcomers, as some cult leaders teach. 2). Positive—This group are saved Israelites, 12,000 from each of the 12 tribes of Israel (they are called Christ’s “brethren” in Matt. 25:40). Note that the tribes of Ephraim and Dan are replaced by the tribes of Joseph and Levi. Probably this is because Ephraim and Dan were the first of the 12 tribes to turn aside to idolatry in the Old Testament era. Note that they are again listed as two of the 12 tribes during the Millennium, Ezek. 48:1–5. Also, note that God knows the location of the so-called “ten lost tribes” and that He knows the tribal identity of every living Israelite. (b) Is the number 144,000 literal? Yes. There is no good reason for believing otherwise. (c) When were they saved? They were saved during the first half of “the Seventieth Week of Daniel.” If they were saved before the beginning of the Seventieth Week, they would have been in the Rapture. If they were saved after the midpoint of the Seventieth Week, they would not be called “the servants of God” at the mid-point of the Seventieth Week. (d) How were they saved? They were saved by the Holy Spirit through the word, the way all sinners are saved. The Holy Spirit will no longer be resident on the earth after the Rapture but in His omnipresence He will yet be present on the earth. During the whole period of the mediatorial Kingdom of Christ, the Holy Spirit has been, is, and will be, present to convict sinners and to regenerate them. (e) How did they hear the gospel? Through one or more of three ways: (1) through the testimony of church-age saints (before these saints were raptured); (2) through reading their Bibles (Bibles won’t be raptured); or through a personal revelation from Jesus Christ, Jn. 1:43. (f) When are they sealed? They are sealed “after” the opening of the first six seals, 7:1, but before the opening of the seventh seal, 8:1, which begins “the Great Tribulation.” (g) Why are they sealed? They are sealed that they may be made immune from death that they may be God’s witnesses throughout the period of “the Great Tribulation.” Many other saved Israelites, Zech. 13:8, 9; Ezek. 34:11–16, and many saved Gentiles, Matt. 25:31–46, will also come through the Tribulation without dying but the 144,000 are a special group chosen to carry out a special assignment, to conduct a worldwide revival before Christ comes in His Second Advent. (h) What is the connection between this group and the 144,000 spoken of in chapter 14? The 144,000 of chapter 7 and the 144,000 of chapter 14 are the same group. In chapter 7, this group is seen before the Great Tribulation; in chapter 14, this same group is seen after the Great Tribulation, in the Millennial Kingdom. In chapter 7, we see them ready to enter the fiery furnace (the Great Tribulation); in chapter 14, we see them emerged from the fiery furnace, unhurt. We gain confidence in our present day situation from the Bible. God is in control! He knows what is coming and how it will be handled. We can be thankful for his promises. Cathy and Danny Sartin www.deeperstillmissions.com ________________________ Gingrich, R. E. (2001). The Book of Revelation (pp. 45–46). Memphis, TN: Riverside Printing. v Dan. 8:17, 18; 10:9, 10, 15; [Luke 24:37; John 21:12] v Dan. 8:17, 18; 10:9, 10, 15; [Luke 24:37; John 21:12] w Matt. 17:7 x ch. 2:8; 22:13; Isa. 41:4; 44:6; 48:12 y Rom. 6:9; 14:9 z [ch. 9:1; 20:1] a ver. 2, 11 b ver. 12–16 The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Re 1:17–19). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved.Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions.  Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . . (ESV)
2 Timothy 3:3 (NIV84)3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, The description of people in the end times comes from Paul's book to Timothy. There are nineteen traits listed between verse 2-4. Today is focused on the word for brutal. Most importantly Paul says, Mark this! People will be like this in the end times. Following is the Greek word and the meanings behind it. ἀνήμερος, 2 anēmeros wild, untamed* In 2 Tim 3:3 with διάβολοι, ἀκρατεῖς, ἀφιλάγαθοι, and other words referring to human behavior in the “last days.” Balz, H. R., & Schneider, G. (1990–). In Exegetical dictionary of the New Testament (Vol. 1, p. 98). Eerdmans. 20.5 ἀνήμερος, ον: pertaining to fierceness, in the sense of being wild and untamed—‘fierce, vicious, untamed.’ ἔσονται γὰρ οἱ ἄνθρωποι … ἀκρατεῖς, ἀνήμεροι, ἀφιλάγαθοι ‘for people will be … lacking in self-control, they will be fierce and hate the good’ 2 Tm 3:2–3. Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). In Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains (electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., Vol. 1, p. 228). United Bible Societies. Each of us has seen examples of this on the news. People killing people. Riots, destruction of property and attacks on others who do not use the correct words. The positive side of this reality is that Christ is coming soon. Maranatha . . . Come Lord Jesus! Cathy and Danny Sartin www.deeperstillmissions@gmail.com _______________________________ The Holy Bible: New International Version (2 Ti 3:3). (1984). Zondervan. Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved.Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . . Psalm 119:18 (ESV)
2 Timothy 3:2 (NKJV) For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy The New King James Version (2 Ti 3:2). (1982). Thomas Nelson. There will be terrible times in the last days. Paul tells Timothy to mark this. . . to understand this . . . to warn him of the collapse coming at the end. Paul gave an extraordinary list of traits to watch for before the coming of Jesus for His bride. We focus on one word in verse two to highlight for today. V. Predictions of Faithlessness (3:1–9). 3:1–5. As in his previous letter, Paul warned Timothy about the collapse predicted for the last days (cf. 1 Tim. 4:1–3), a term which includes the entire period between the first century and Christ’s return. During this interim, according to the prediction, the world will see terrible times of societal degeneration. Paul gave an extraordinary list (cf. Rom. 1:28–32) of 19 general characteristics believers should expect. People will be: (1) lovers of themselves (philautoi, “self-centered, narcissistic”); (2) lovers of money (philargyroi; cf. 1 Tim. 6:9–10); (3) boastful—the outward manifestation of the fact that inwardly they are (4) proud (“arrogant”); (5) abusive toward others, which translates blasphēmoi (“blasphemers”). Litfin, A. D. (1985). 2 Timothy. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 2, p. 756). Victor Books. 989 βλάσφημος [blasphemos /blas·fay·mos/] adj. From a derivative of 984 and 5345; TDNT 1:621; TDNTA 107; GK 1061; Five occurrences; AV translates as “blasphemous” twice, “blasphemer” twice, and “railing” once. 1 speaking evil, slanderous, reproachful, railing, abusive. Strong, J. (1995). In Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon. Woodside Bible Fellowship. A clear connection exists between boastful and proud (verse 2). The former word alazōn includes ‘the bounce of swaggering’ (Simpson), while the other word hyperēphanos, when used in a bad sense, conveys the idea of haughtiness or arrogance. The word abusive translates the Greek word blasphēmoi, but points to evil-speaking directed against others rather than against God. The last three vices in verse 2 are all specific denials of definite Christian virtues (in the Greek they all have the negative a-prefix) bringing out forcefully the idea of militant moral perversion. The same evident reversal of moral values is also seen in five of the six vices mentioned in verse 3, the only word without the negative prefix being slanderous (diaboloi). The word translated unforgiving (aspondos) literally means ‘without a truce’, and therefore ‘implacable’. It describes an hostility so intense that a truce is impossible. Without self-control shows an attitude of mind that is dominated by outside influences, while brutal is the antithesis of what is civilized. The expression not lovers of the good really describes those who hate the good and have replaced it with something less demanding. Guthrie, D. (1990). Pastoral Epistles: An Introduction and Commentary (Vol. 14, pp. 174–175). InterVarsity Press. Lovers of self (φιλαυτοι [philautoi]). Old compound adjective (φιλος, αὐτος [philos, autos]), here only in N. T. Lovers of money (φιλαργυροι [philarguroi]). Old compound adjective, in N. T. only here and Luke 16:14. See 1 Tim. 6:10. Boastful (ἀλαζονες [alazones]). Old word for empty pretender, in N. T. only here and Rom. 1:30. Haughty (ὑπερηφανοι [huperēphanoi]). See also Rom. 1:30 for this old word. Railers (βλασφημοι [blasphēmoi]). See 1 Tim. 1:13. Robertson, A. T. (1933). Word Pictures in the New Testament (2 Ti 3:2). Broadman Press. It has certainly become a challenge to speak directly from the Word of God without offending someone. May the Lord give you a seasoned tongue of tenderness, love and clarity. Encourage others around you! Cathy and Danny Sartin wwwdeeperstillmissions.com ------------------------------------------ Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved. Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . .
Psalm 119:18 (ESV) Boastful in the last days. 1–5 This be constantly knowing, that in the last days difficult times will set in, for men shall be fond of themselves, fond of money, swaggerers, haughty, revilers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, lacking self-control, savage, haters of that which is good, betrayers, headstrong, besotted with pride, fond of pleasure rather than having an affection for God, having a mere outward semblance of piety toward God but denying the power of the same. And these be constantly shunning. Wuest, K. S. (1961). The New Testament: an expanded translation (2 Ti 3:1–5). Eerdmans. People like to know the signs of the last days. Paul gives a powerful picture of godlessness in the last days. From The Pastoral Epistles: a commentary on the Greek text. The next layer of terms, working from both the beginning and the end of the list, focuses on pride and hostility toward others. Associated, therefore, with self-love is an attitude of arrogant pride and disdain for others. In the first two words of this layer, joined here as in Rom. 1:30, Paul describes these people as “boasters” (ἀλαζόνες, notice Pr. 21:24 LXX and the associated concepts there) and as “arrogant” or “haughty” (ὑπερήφανοι,** Lk. 1:51; Rom. 1:30; Jas. 4:6; 1 Pet. 5:5), i.e., as those who express their pride in both talk and attitude. Here again Paul mentions characteristics of the false teachers (cf. 1 Tim. 1:7; 6:4; see Trench, Synonyms, 98–102 on both words; Barclay, More NT Words, 85–89 on the second). The third word of this group, βλάσφημοι** (Acts 6:11; 1 Tim. 1:13; here; 2 Pet. 2:11), “evil speakers,” “slanderers,” is most likely used here of “abusive” speech against other people, just as the related verb and abstract noun are used elsewhere in the PE of an evil that Christians must avoid in their dealings with non-Christians (βλασφημέω in Tit. 3:2) and that is associated with the false teachers (βλασφημία in 1 Tim. 6:4). From the Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains 88.220 ἀλαζών, όνος m: (derivative of ἀλαζονεία ‘pretentious pride,’ 88.219) one who is pretentiously proud and given to bragging about it—‘braggart, arrogant person.’ ἔσονται γὰρ οἱ ἄνθρωποι φίλαυτοι, φιλάργυροι, ἀλαζόνες ‘for there will be people who are lovers of themselves, lovers of money, braggarts’ 2 Tm 3:2. In a number of languages an arrogant person is described figuratively as ‘one who speaks big words about himself’ or ‘one whose mouth is too big for his body.’). From the Theological lexicon of the New Testament ἀλαζονεία, ἀλαζών alazoneia, boastful arrogance; alazōn, boaster mention as a third epithymia “the lust for riches or money,” it is precisely because he had his sights set on a more serious vice than the ostentation of the wealthy or their arrogance toward the poor. He contrasts with God the creaturely pride, the mastery of one’s own existence, of the person who decides and directs the course of his life without taking God into account.11 This “sufficiency” is the exact opposite of the absolute duty of worshiping God and serving God devoutly; it follows that this is something altogether different from the classical and profane alazoneia. This one word easily describes the attitudes we see in our world today. Go before our Lord in humility and worship. Cathy and Danny Sartin www.deeperstillmissions.com _________________________ Wuest, K. S. (1961). The New Testament: an expanded translation (2 Ti 3:1–5). Eerdmans. LXX Septuagint ** all occurrences of the word or phrase in the New Testament are listed or it is identified as a New Testament hapax legomenon ** all occurrences of the word or phrase in the New Testament are listed or it is identified as a New Testament hapax legomenon PE Pastoral Epistles Knight, G. W. (1992). The Pastoral Epistles: a commentary on the Greek text (p. 431). W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press. m masculine Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). In Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains (electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., Vol. 1, p. 764). United Bible Societies. 11 This is the interpretation of J. Chaine, Les Epîtres catholiques, Paris, 1939, p. 164; R. Schnackenburg, Die Johannesbriefe, Freiburg, 1953, p. 114. Ἀλαζών does not occur in the papyri, but cf. P.Lond. 1927, 32 (Christian, mid-fourth century, H. I. Bell, Jews and Christians in Egypt, p. 111): τὴν τοῦ κόσμου ἀλαζονίαν ἀπεκήρυξας καὶ τὴν τῶν κενοδόξων μεγαλαυχίαν ἐβδέλυξας. Spicq, C., & Ernest, J. D. (1994). In Theological lexicon of the New Testament (Vol. 1, pp. 63–65). Hendrickson Publishers. Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved.Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . . Psalm 119:18 (ESV)
Some have continued to ask about the rapture of the church and the end times. Below is the fourth reason I believe Christ will return for His Church before the onset of the Great Tribulation. Consider these thoughts: Time gap between the rapture and second coming of Christ.
5:10 This describes the believer’s deepest motivation and highest aim in pleasing God—the realization that every Christian is inevitably and ultimately accountable to Him. the judgment seat of Christ. “Judgment seat” metaphorically refers to the place where the Lord will sit to evaluate believers’ lives for the purpose of giving them eternal rewards. It is translated from the Gr. word bēma, which was an elevated platform where victorious athletes (e.g., during the Olympics) went to receive their crowns. The term is also used in the NT to refer to the place of judging, as when Jesus stood before Pontius Pilate (Mt 27:19; Jn 19:13), but here the reference is definitely from the athletic analogy. Corinth had such a platform where both athletic rewards and legal justice were dispensed (Ac 18:12–16), so the Corinthians understood Paul’s reference. deeds in the body. Actions which happened during the believer’s time of earthly ministry. This does not include sins, since their judgment took place at the cross (Eph 1:7). Paul was referring to all those activities believers do during their lifetimes, which relate to their eternal reward and praise from God. What Christians do in their temporal bodies will, in His eyes, have an impact for eternity (see notes on 1Co 4:3–5; cf. Ro 12:1, 2: Rev 22:12). whether good or bad. These Gr. terms do not refer to moral good and moral evil. Matters of sin have been completely dealt with by the death of the Savior. Rather, Paul was comparing worthwhile, eternally valuable activities with useless ones. His point was not that believers should not enjoy certain wholesome, earthly things, but that they should glorify God in them and spend most of their energy and time with what has eternal value (see notes on 1Co 3:8–14). MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2006). The MacArthur study Bible: New American Standard Bible. (2 Co 5:9–10). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers. Consider two events that seem to fall before the second coming of Jesus. The judgement seat of Christ is one and the marriage supper of the Lord is a second. We recognize that many faithful Christians have different perceptions about these end time events. But a time is coming when it will be clear to us all. Cathy and Danny Sartin www.deeperstillmissions.com _________________________ The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Ps 119:18; 2 Cor 5:10; Rev 19:7-9). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved. Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . .
Psalm 119:18 (ESV) 2 Timothy 2:7 (NIV84) Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. The Lord speaks to us through the Word of God. But he also uses illustrations or pictures He wants us to think about. Consider how the Lord gives us insight.Here are some thoughts from two commentaries. 7. Consider the force of the illustrations I have given from the soldier, the contender in the games, and the husbandmen, as applying to thyself in thy ministry.and the Lord give, &c.—The oldest manuscripts read, “for the Lord will give thee understanding.” Thou canst understand my meaning so as personally to apply it to thyself; for the Lord will give thee understanding when thou seekest it from Him “in all things.” Not intellectual perception, but personal appropriation of the truths metaphorically expressed, was what he needed to be given him by the Lord. Jamieson, R., Fausset, A. R., & Brown, D. (1997). Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (Vol. 2, p. 424). Logos Research Systems, Inc. (2:7) “Consider” is noeō (νοεω), “to perceive with the mind, to understand, think upon, ponder, consider.” Expositors translates, “ ‘Grasp the meaning’ of these three similes.… If you have not sufficient wisdom to follow my argument, ‘ask of God who giveth to all men liberally’ (Jas. 1:5).” Paul had used the illustration of a soldier. Timothy was to live a rugged, strenuous Christian life in which hardships as the result of serving the Lord Jesus were an expected thing. He used the simile of a Greek athlete. Timothy should live a life of rigid separation, not merely with respect to evil things, but also with regard to things which, good in themselves, would unfit him for the highest type of Christian service. Paul now uses the metaphor of a tiller of the soil. Timothy is reminded that the Christian worker who labors with wearisome effort in the Lord’s service, has the right to derive his financial support from it, so that he might be able to give all of his time and strength to his work. Translation. Grasp the meaning of that which I am saying, for the Lord will give you understanding in all things. Wuest, K. S. (1997). Wuest’s word studies from the Greek New Testament: for the English reader (Vol. 8, pp. 130–131). Eerdmans. Reflect on the pictures God gives us with His word. Then determine how they apply to your life today. Cathy and Danny Sartin www.deeperstillmissions.com _________________________ The Holy Bible: New International Version (2 Ti 2:7). (1984). Zondervan. Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved.Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . . Psalm 119:18 (ESV)
John 1:47–48 (ESV) 47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Behold, yan Israelite indeed, zin whom there is no deceit!” 48 Nathanael said to him, “How ado you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Jesus saw Nathanael sitting under the fig tree. What did this picture say to Jesus? Consider the fig tree in the culture of Biblical times. FIG TREE A tree (Ficus carica L.; Heb. tĕʾēnâ; Gk. sýkon, sykḗ) whose fruit has remained a staple in the diet of the ancient Mediterranean world since earliest times. The tree reaches an average height of 3–6 m. (10–20 ft.). Its large palmate leaves open in the early spring and fall at the beginning of winter. Normally the first fruit (cf. Cant. 2:13; Hos. 9:10) appears in February before the leaves appear in April/June. When the leaves appear the fruit is usually ripe. A tree produces two crops per year, one in early summer and the chief crop in the autumn. It is a dioecious tree, meaning there are both male and female varieties. The male (Lat. caprificus) grows wild from seeds scattered principally by birds and bats, while the female is planted from shoots of the cultivated trees and requires tending (Prov. 27:18). The fruit production of the female depends upon a process known as caprification: wasps hatched in the caprifig’s flowers bring the pollen from the male tree to fertilize the female flowers, from which the fig develops. Two- to three-year-old fig shoots will become young trees that bear the first or second year after planting. There is considerable literature on the cultivation of the fig in the Greek and Roman farming manuals (Pliny, Cato, Varro, Theophrastus, Columella). The fig tree is the first fruit tree mentioned in the OT. The many other references to the fig indicate its significant role in the economy of Palestine. It was one of the food items that interested the Hebrews at the conquest of Canaan (Num. 13:23; Deut. 8:8), and the lack of suitability of the wilderness for the fig was a major complaint (Num. 20:5). The fruit was eaten as a delicacy fresh from the tree (Isa. 28:4), or dried individually or in strings, or pressed into cakes (1 Sam. 25:18) for the winter months. Dried figs in cakes were also used as a medicinal poltice (2 Kgs. 20:7 = Isa. 38:21). The most common reference to the fig in the OT is metaphorical. It is generally used to depict peace, prosperity, and God’s blessing (“they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees,” Mic. 4:4; 1 Kgs. 4:25; Hag. 2:19; Zech. 3:10; 1 Macc. 14:12; cf. 2 Kgs. 18:31; Isa. 36:16; Joel 2:22), or God’s judgment (“the vine withers, the fig tree languishes,” Joel 1:7, 12; cf. Ps. 105:33; Jer. 5:17; Hos. 2:12 [MT 14]; Amos 4:9; Nah. 3:12; Hab. 3:17). Other metaphorical uses occur in Judg. 9:10–11; Isa. 34:4; Jer. 8:13; 24:1–8; 29:17; Hos. 9:10; cf. Amos 8:2. In the NT also the dominant use of the fig tree is metaphorical (Matt. 7:16 = Luke 6:44; Jas. 3:12). It depicts the imminent end of the world(Mark 13:28 = Matt. 24:32 = Luke 21:29). The most problematical passage is Jesus’ cursing of the fig tree (Mark 11:12–14, 20–22 = Matt. 21:18–22). Because this account frames the cleansing of the temple, it appears that Mark regards it as an act of prophetic judgment on the temple cult for promising but not delivering true piety (Jer. 8:13; 24:1–10; cf. Matt. 7:15–20). In Luke 13:6–9 Jesus tells a parable about a barren fig tree that reflects the realistic features of farming in 1st-century Palestine. Luke does not provide an interpretation to the parable. Bibliography. F. N. Hepper, Baker Encyclopedia of Bible Plants (Grand Rapids, 1992), 110–14; H. N. and A. L. Moldenke, Plants of the Bible (1952, repr. New York, 1986), 103–6. CHARLES W. HEDRICK Hedrick, C. W. (2000). Fig Tree. In D. N. Freedman, A. C. Myers, & A. B. Beck (Eds.), Eerdmans dictionary of the Bible (pp. 460–461). Grand Rapids, MI: W.B. Eerdmans. Have you been under a fig tree lately? Where do you pray privately? Do you worship Christ each day? Do you meditate on the Word of God? The difficulties of the 21st century come at us each day. We need a private time of reflection and worship. Cathy and Danny Sartin www.deeperstillmissions.com _________________________ y Ps. 73:1; Rom. 9:4, 6 z Ps. 32:2; [Zeph. 3:13; Rev. 14:5] a ch. 2:24, 25 The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Jn 1:47–48). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Ps 119:18). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved. Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . . Psalm 119:18 (ESV)
2 Timothy 2:1 (NKJV) Be Strong in Grace You therefore, amy son, bbe strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. a 1 Tim. 1:2 b Eph. 6:10 The New King James Version. (1982). (2 Ti 2:1). Nashville: Thomas Nelson. When I read scriptures I want good thoughts from other Christian scholars that are contained in study Bibles and commentaries. I have given you thoughts from five different writers who I always find insightful. They provide clear guidance in each scripture. Consider some of their comments. I. God’s Family (2:1) (Warren Wiersbe) “My son” suggests, of course, that Timothy had been born into God’s family by faith in Christ. As Paul wrote in 1 Cor. 4:15, he had “begotten” him through the Gospel. In Eph. 2:19, Paul calls the local church the “household of God.” The local church is not a sanctified country club; it is the family of God meeting together for fellowship, worship, and service. The only way to enter this family is by being born of the Spirit (John 3:1–6) and the Word (1 Peter 1:23). Wiersbe, W. W. (1992). Wiersbe’s expository outlines on the New Testament (p. 645). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. (John MacArthur) 2:1 my son. Paul had led Timothy to Christ during his first missionary journey (cf. 1Co 4:17; 1Ti 1:2, 18). be strong. Here is the main admonition in the first part of the letter. Paul is calling for Timothy to overcome his apparent drift toward weakness and renew his commitment to his ministry (see Introduction: Historical and Theological Themes). MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2006). The MacArthur study Bible: New American Standard Bible. (2 Ti 2:1). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers. (Duane Litfin) 2:1. After the reminders of Timothy’s ordination, his own example, and that of others, Paul addressed Timothy with a direct application: You then, my son (teknon, “child,” an endearing term), be strong (lit. “be empowered”; cf. Eph. 6:10). Yet Timothy’s strength was not his own; it was a divine “gift” (grace, charis) found only in Christ (Phil. 4:13). Litfin, A. D. (1985). 2 Timothy. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 2, p. 752). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. 1. Thou therefore—following my example (2 Ti 1:8, 12), and that of ONESIPHORUS (2 Ti 1:16–18), and shunning that of those who forsook me (2 Ti 1:15). my son—Children ought to imitate their father. be strong—literally, “be invested with power.” Have power, and show thyself to have it; implying an abiding state of power. in the grace—the element IN which the believer’s strength has place. Compare 2 Ti 1:7, “God hath given us the spirit of power.” Jamieson, R., Fausset, A. R., & Brown, D. (1997). Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (Vol. 2, p. 423). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. 2 Timothy 2:1 Be strengthened (ἐνδυναμου [endunamou]). Present passive imperative of ἐνδυναμοω [endunamoō]. See already 1 Tim. 1:12; Rom. 4:20; Phil. 4:13; Eph. 6:10. “Keep on being empowered,” “keep in touch with the power.” In the grace that is in Christ Jesus (ἐν τῃ χαριτι τῃ ἐν Χριστῳ Ἰησου [en tēi chariti tēi en Christōi Iēsou]). Where the power is located. Christ is the dynamo for power only when and while we keep in touch with him. Robertson, A. T. (1933). Word Pictures in the New Testament (2 Ti 2:1). Nashville, TN: Broadman Press. We pray that your strength to stand firm in this international pandemic will be enhanced. May you be encouraged by our Lord. Cathy and Danny Sartin www.deeperstillmissions,com ________________________Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved. Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things . . . Psalm 119:18 (ESV)
The Rapture A common question I have been asked in the last two years has been about end times. My personal persuasion from scriptural study has convinced me that the rapture will happen prior to the onset of the great tribulation. John 14:3 (NIV) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
5 Now concerning wthe times and the seasons, brothers,1 xyou have no need to have anything written to you. 2 For you yourselves are fully aware that ythe day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. w Dan. 2:21; Acts 1:7 1 Or brothers and sisters; also verses 4, 12, 14, 25, 26, 27 x ch. 4:9 y [2 Thess. 2:2]; See Matt. 24:43; Luke 17:24 The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (1 Th 5:1–2). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. The following notes are from John MacArthur a pastor in Southern California. These notes are from his study Bible on 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2 5:1 Now. Paul used familiar Gr. words here to indicate a change of topics within the same general subject of prophecy (cf. 4:9, 13; 1Co 7:1, 25; 8:1; 12:1; 16:1). The expression here points to the idea that within the broader context of the end time coming of the Lord Jesus, the subject is changing from a discussion of the blessings of the rapture of believers to the judgment of unbelievers. times and the epochs. These two terms mean the measurement of time and the character of the times respectively (cf. Da 2:21; Ac 1:7). Many of them expected the Lord to come in their lifetime and were confused and grieved when their fellow believers died before His coming (see notes on 4:13–18). They were concerned about the delay. Apparently, the Thessalonians knew all that God intended believers to know about coming judgment, and Paul had taught them what they hadn’t known about the Rapture (4:13–18), so Paul exhorted them to live godly lives in light of coming judgment on the world, rather than to be distracted by probing into issues of prophetic timing. They could not know the timing of God’s final judgment, but they knew well that it was coming unexpectedly (v. 2). 5:2 day of the Lord. There are 19 indisputable uses of “the Day of the Lord” in the OT and 4 in the NT (cf. Ac 2:20; 2Th 2:2; 2Pe 3:10). The OT prophets used “Day of the Lord” to describe near historical judgments (see Is 13:6–22; Eze 30:2–19; Joel 1:15; Am 5:18–20; Zep 1:14–18) or far eschatological divine judgments (see Joel 2:30–32; 3:14; Zec 14:1; Mal 4:1, 5). It is also referred to as the “day of doom” and the “day of vengeance.” The NT calls it a day of “wrath,” day of “visitation,” and the “great day of God Almighty”(Rev 16:14). These are terrifying judgments from God (cf. Joel 2:30, 31; 2Th 1:7–10) for the overwhelming sinfulness of the world. The future “Day of the Lord” which unleashes God’s wrath, falls into two parts: 1) the end of the 7 year tribulation period (cf. Rev 19:11–21), and 2) the end of the Millennium. These two are actually 1,000 years apart and Peter refers to the end of the 1,000 year period in connection with the final “Day of the Lord” (cf. 2Pe 3:10; Rev 20:7–15). Here, Paul refers to that aspect of the “Day of the Lord,” which concludes the tribulation period. a thief in the night. This phrase is never used to refer to the rapture of the church. It is used of Christ’s coming in judgment on the Day of the Lord at the end of the 7 year tribulation which is distinct from the rapture of the church (see note on 4:15) and it is used of the judgment which concludes the Millennium (2Pe 3:10). As a thief comes unexpectedly and without warning, so will the Day of the Lord come in both its final phases MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2006). The MacArthur study Bible: New American Standard Bible. (1 Th 5:1–2). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Ps 119:18). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved. Bible Nuggets are written for pastors, youth leaders and missionaries who desire to go deeper still in God’s Word. Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions. |
Danny SartinFour decade veteran of youth ministry in churches, Youth For Christ and now is the Founder and Executive Director of Deeper Still Missions. Danny and his wife Cathy spend most of their time mentoring missionaries in Africa, Europe, Central America and North America. Future opportunities include South America and the Asia Pacific area. Archives
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