Wisdom-Trek ©

Putnam Church Message – 08/04/2024

Last week, we learned to be on guard against false teachers by knowing God’s Word and taking time to Stop, Look, Listen, and Think about what is being taught compared to God’s Word. If you miss any messages, you can watch them online on our Facebook page or at PutnamChurch.org.

Today’s passage is 2 Peter 2:4-11. Because of the complexities of the subject matter, I will read it from the NLT for clarity of flow.

 For God did not spare even the angels who sinned. He threw them into hell, in gloomy pits of darkness, where they are being held until the day of judgment. And God did not spare the ancient world—except for Noah and the seven others in his family. Noah warned the world of God’s righteous judgment. So God protected Noah when he destroyed the world of ungodly people with a vast flood. Later, God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and turned them into heaps of ashes. He made them an example of what will happen to ungodly people. But God also rescued Lot out of Sodom because he was a righteous man who was sick of the shameful immorality of the wicked people around him. Yes, Lot was a righteous man who was tormented in his soul by the wickedness he saw and heard day after day. So you see, the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials, even while keeping the wicked under punishment until the day of final judgment. He is especially hard on those who follow their own twisted sexual desire, and who despise authority.

The early church reacted quickly and decisively against heresies in the first and second centuries, but the “problem” of the two sides of God’s character still puzzles believers. Like two sides of the same coin (coin), scripture does seem to present two sides of the same God—the attributes of justice, judgment, and wrath on the one side and the attributes of mercy, salvation, and blessing on the other. These two “sides” of God are reflected well in Exodus 34:6-7.

The God of compassion and mercy!

I am slow to anger

and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.

I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations.

I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin.

But I do not excuse the guilty.

I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren;

the entire family is affected—

even children in the third and fourth generations.”

The first part of this description is the picture we all want to frame and hang over the mantle—the loving Father who sends forth kindness, forgives our sins, and overflows in blessing. But the second part of this verse reminds us of the sobering reality that God refuses to wink at sin. His judgment is sometimes so severe that its blast waves ripple forward three or four generations!

Whether God appears as a kind, loving Father or a vengeful, wrathful Judge depends on our relationship with Him. Paul says, “Notice how God is both kind and severe. He is severe toward those who disobeyed, but kind to you if you continue to trust in his kindness. But if you stop trusting, you also will be cut off,” (Rom. 11:22). In fact, Paul says the message of the gospel itself can appear either sweet or sour, depending on whether a person believes or disbelieves: “Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?” (2 Cor. 2:15-16).

These same two sides of God—His compassion and His judgment—come together in 2 Peter 2:4-11. For the false teachers, judgment is coming. But for those who are saved, God will rescue them from wrath. In this passage, Peter shares a warning, a promise, and a hope—calling believers to persevere diligently in sound doctrine.

By the way, |you may be startled to realize that 2:4-10a is one large sentence in Greek. In most English translations, it reads like a massive run-on sentence. Structurally, though, it’s quite simple. Bulletin - It follows a basic “if... then” structure in which Peter basically says: “If God has historically established a pattern of reserving judgment of the wicked for the proper time while rescuing His righteous people, then we can be confident that He will do the same in the future—rescue us from the coming great wrath and leave the wicked false teachers behind for judgment.”

Knowing the basic argument, let’s examine how Peter builds his case in 2:4-10.

We can divide the “if” side of Peter’s “if. . . then” statement in 2:4-10 into two historical episodes—the judgment of the world in the days of Noah and the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah in the days of Lot. The first episode included the judgment of wicked divine beings (2:4) and wicked men and women (2:5). The question comes up: who are these divine beings (angels) that God placed in the gloomy pits of darkness?

Who are the divine beings we call angels that sinned (2:4)? We have three options. First, some have held that Peter refers to the original fall of angelic beings that coincided with the fall of Satan, after God created humans and put them in charge of His creation. (Ezek. 28:11-19). However, 2 Peter tells us that all of these sinning angels referenced in verse 4 were cast into pits of darkness and reserved for judgment. But in contrast, we know that the Satan and his evil cohorts are free and active in the world (Matt. 12:27-28; 1 Pet. 5:8).

As a second option, some have considered this to be a second fall of good angels that took place sometime after the first fall of the Satan and his cohorts. This group could have been the divine beings God put in charge of the nations when he divided humans up at the Tower of Babbel. It is thought that after they received authority, they, too, turned the humans away from God. However, we have no record of such a second fall, so they may have already fallen when they received the authority over the gentile nations. (Remember that gentile means not of Israel). From that point on, it seems likely that the remaining angels who did not fall with Satan were sealed in their state of righteousness. Paul refers to “chosen angels” (1 Tim. 5:21), and this has often been understood to refer to angels who passed the test of Satan’s fall and were sealed in their state of tested perfection, never able to fall.

The most likely option, then, is that the wicked angels referred to in 2 Peter 2:4 were among the angels who fell with Satan, but they then committed some subsequent sin—a sin so heinous that it necessitated a more severe judgment than what had already befallen them. Peter does not tell us what sin the wicked angels committed in this particular passage. It seems his readers would have already known what event Peter referred to. Peter helps clarify the meaning of this text when he talks about their judgment.

Peter says that God “threw them into hell, in gloomy pits of darkness, where they are being held until the day of judgment” (2:4). He uses a unique word for “hell,” different from the typical New Testament terms hadês (place of the dead) (Matt. 11:23). He uses orgehenna (Matt. 5:22). In fact, he says God cast the angels who sinned into Tartarus. Tartarus was regarded as a place of torment and punishment in the Greek world beyond Hades. Not only does Peter draw on Greek imagery to reinforce the severity of this judgment on sinning angels, but he also refers to a popular book among Jews and Christians in the first century called 1 Enoch. The writers of that book creatively recast the biblical account of the flood (Gen. 6), describing the sins of the angelic beings who cohabited with human women. For this heinous and unnatural crime, they were cast into the place of deepest darkness and reserved for the day of judgment. On that day, the spirits of wickedness would be cast into fire (1 Enoch 10.6-9). If you remember our lesson from 1 Peter, Tartarus is where Christ appears on Saturday between his crucifixion and resurrection to proclaim his victory over death and evil.

In this light, it seems that what Peter calls “Tartarus” is the same as the “abyss” (abyssos), which the New Testament mentions several times. During Jesus’ ministry, demons implore Him not to send them into the “abyss or bottomless pit” (Luke 8:31). Satan himself is cast into the “abyss” after the return of Christ (Rev. 20:3) before he is finally consigned to the lake of fire (Rev. 20:10). This seems to be a deep, dark holding place for wicked spirits that prevents them from having any contact with or influence on the world. This is like a cross between solitary confinement and death row; Tartarus is the holding cell where the most wicked spirits await judgment. This interpretation fits Peter’s argument best.

In 2:5, Peter connects the timing of this sin of the fallen angels to the time leading up to the Flood. All humanity had reached such a degree of wickedness that “everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil,” (Gen. 6:5). Because of the depths of evil, God did not spare the ancient world but brought a flood upon the earth to destroy the ungodly (2 Pet. 2:5).

Yet amid this judgment, God preserved eight people—Noah, “a preacher of righteousness,” his wife, his three sons, and their wives. This salvation of the righteous amid the judgment of the wicked angels and humans serves for Peter as an example of God’s pattern of deliverance. In the coming judgment, God will preserve Christians who live rightly in their own day, and at the same time, He will condemn the wicked false teachers.

The second historical episode Peter chose to illustrate the “if” side of his “if . . . then” argument was the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 19). God did not overlook the wickedness of the inhabitants of those cities. Instead, He made them examples of how serious He is about judging sin. These cities had not been given the Law, but God nevertheless held them accountable for their extreme wickedness and violence. Genesis 13:13 says, “But the people of this area were extremely wicked and constantly sinned against the Lord.” In Genesis 18:20, “So the Lord told Abraham, ‘I have heard a great outcry from Sodom and Gomorrah, because their sin is so flagrant.’” Because of this, God condemned them to destruction.

Yet Abraham inquired, “Will you sweep away both the righteous and the wicked?” (Gen. 18:23). God’s answer gives us an essential picture of the mercy of God amid His judgment and wrath. God will not destroy righteous inhabitants of the city together with the wicked (Gen. 18:25). Even if there are ten righteous in the city, God will stay His hand of judgment (Gen. 18:32). So, because God is just and will not pour out His wrath on the righteous, He sent two angels into Sodom to retrieve Lot and his wife before judgment fell. This is the aspect of the illustration that Peter emphasizes. But God also rescued Lot out of Sodom because he was a righteous man (2 Pet. 2:7) by removing him and his family from Sodom to pour out His judgment upon that wicked city. In many ways, Peter’s original readers could relate to Peter’s description of Lot, who lived among the evil people of Sodom. Peter says that Lot “…was sick of the shameful immorality of the wicked people around him. Yes, Lot was a righteous man who was tormented in his soul by the wickedness he saw and heard day after day,” (2:7-8).

Peter uses this illustration of the salvation of the righteous amid the judgment of the wicked men of Sodom and Gomorrah as an example to inspire hope among believers. In the coming judgment, when Christ returns, God will preserve Christians who live righteous lives amid the day-to-day immorality and lawlessness of the pagan world. And He will condemn the wickedness of those who do evil in the judgments that precede the coming of Christ.

Having illustrated the “if” side of his “if. . . then” argument with two well-known examples of God’s pattern of rescuing the righteous before sending judgment, Peter presents the important “then” side of his statement: So you see, the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials, even while keeping the wicked under punishment until the day of final judgment, (2:9). Peter’s point is that God’s coming judgment will not sweep up the righteous with the wicked. Because God is just, He will spare the righteous believers in Christ, rescuing them from coming judgment. But the wicked stand condemned, awaiting future wrath.

The word translated “trials” in verse 9 (peir/as/mos) can refer to tests that challenge the integrity of our faith (1 Pet. 1:6) or to “trials” that challenge our moral integrity by appealing to our sinful tendencies (Luke 4:13). It can also refer specifically to the difficult times before Christ’s return in Revelation 3:10. In that Christ promises believers, “Because you have obeyed my command to persevere, I will protect you from the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world to test those who belong to this world [peirasmos]”. Paul reiterated this promise: For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us, (1 Thes. 5:9).

Based on Peter’s argument, we can confidently conclude that, like Noah and Lot in the Old Testament, New Testament Christians will be preserved when Christ returns to earth to deal with those who rejected him before transforming the world into God’s Kingdom, His global Eden. That judgment is meant for the ungodly false teachers and the evil ones of the unseen realm. Instead, believers can look forward to God’s protection of the righteous. Peter does not spell out how that protection will take place, nor does it mean that we will not be persecuted, but his references to Noah and Lot suggest that God will remove or insulate believers from the time of great wrath as His judgment falls upon the earth. We know that at some point during Christ’s 2nd coming, Paul’s teaching in 1 Thessalonians indicates, the dead in Christ will rise first, and then all remaining believers will rise as we are outfitted with our immortal “forever” bodies.

Peter ends this section with a further description of the nature of the false teachers. He has already painted a disturbing picture in the first several verses of this chapter. As we learned last week, these false teachers:

deceptively introduce heresies

deny the Master who bought them

invite destruction upon themselves

indulge in sensuality

cause the truth to be maligned

greedily exploit believers

Peter now adds two other attributes to this list of already dismal descriptions. These false teachers stand under condemnation because they

indulge the flesh in corrupt desires

despise authority (2:10).

The first summarizes the kind of sinfulness illustrated by the sexual immorality of the days of Noah and the times of Lot. The second relates to the false teachers’ general disposition toward those who have been placed in positions of authority.

The Greek word for “authority” (ky/rio/tës) generally refers to angelic authorities in the unseen realm. (Eph. 1:21; Col. 1:16). It allows for both human and angelic authorities in this context. Peter describes them as “daring” and “proud and arrogant” dispositions opposite the humble and submissive spirit Peter elsewhere desires believers to exhibit. In his first letter, Peter encouraged his readers to submit to “human institutions” (1 Pet. 2:13). Yet the false teachers described in 2 Peter 2 do not even hesitate to revile divine (angelic) beings (2 Pet. 2:11).

We get the picture of cocky, defiant, indulgent, and out-of-control leaders willing to say or do anything to feed their own appetites of lust and greed. Such people are not among God’s people. And such people, Peter says, can expect to receive wrath, not mercy, from the God of justice when Christ returns to rescue His people and judge the world.

Ask yourself: Is God a frightening Judge or a good and gracious Father? Is He the source of wrath and destruction or the fount of eternal blessing? The answer depends not on who God is; but on who you are. God does not change. Because He is holy; |He stands against wickedness;| because He is just; He will judge sinners justly.| Yet God is also merciful and gracious,| forgiving and blessing those who have placed their faith in Christ,| whose death and resurrection bring forgiveness for their sins. God justly condemns sin and justly forgives it based on Christ’s death. This leads me to two important facts to remember.

First, God’s compassion will result in the rescue of all believers. Because He is just and faithful, He will never forget even one of His children. This promise applies to all His children—the stubborn and the submissive, |the weak and the strong, |the mature and the adolescent. God’s grace covers you if you are a child of God by having placed your faith in Christ alone to save you from your past,...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2438 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. In today’s episode, we’ll explore Psalm 17 from the New Living Translation. This heartfelt prayer of David presents a compelling plea for justice and protection from God. It’s a powerful example of seeking refuge in the Lord amid life’s adversities.

So, let’s set out on this trek and uncover the profound insights David’s words offer us today.

Because I am righteous, I will see you. When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied.

In the opening verses of Psalm 17, David’s prayer begins with an earnest plea: “O Lord, hear my plea for justice. Listen to my cry for help. Pay attention to my prayer, for it comes from honest lips” (verses 1-2). David appeals to God’s sense of justice, asserting his innocence and integrity. He confidently declares that his prayer is sincere, coming from a place of honesty and transparency.

David’s plea reflects a deep trust in God’s ability to discern truth. He knows that God sees beyond outward appearances, right into the heart. This is a powerful reminder for us as well. When we approach God with our concerns and requests, we should do so with an honest and pure heart, trusting that He knows our deepest thoughts and desires.

In verses 3 through 5, David says, “You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night. You have scrutinized me and found nothing wrong. I am determined not to sin in what I say. I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people. My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you.”

David asserts his commitment to righteousness and obedience to God’s commands. He acknowledges that God has tested him, even in his life’s quiet and hidden moments, and has found his heart to be true. This commitment to living righteously keeps David on the right path, away from the influence of the wicked.

This passage challenges us to examine our own lives. Are we determined to live righteously? Do we stay on God’s path even when no one is watching? Like David, we should strive for integrity in our thoughts, words, and actions, remaining steadfast in our commitment to follow God’s commands.

In verses 6 through 9, David’s prayer takes on an urgent tone: “I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray. Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. By your mighty power, you rescue those who seek refuge from their enemies. Guard me as you would guard your own eyes. Hide me in the shadow of your wings. Protect me from wicked people who attack me, from murderous enemies who surround me.”

David’s confidence in God’s protection is evident in his plea for deliverance from his enemies. He appeals to God’s unfailing love and mighty power, asking for protection as a treasured possession. The imagery of being hidden in the shadow of God’s wings conveys a sense of safety and refuge.

This part of the Psalm is a comforting reminder that we can turn to God in times of trouble. No matter how overwhelming our circumstances may seem, we can find shelter and protection in God’s presence. His love and power are a sure defense against the attacks of the enemy.

David continues in verses 10 through 12, describing the ruthlessness of his enemies: “They are without pity. Listen to their boasting! They track me down and surround me, watching for the chance to throw me to the ground. They are like hungry lions, eager to tear me apart—like young lions hiding in ambush.”

These verses paint a vivid picture of the danger David faces from his enemies. Their lack of pity and relentless pursuit highlight the severity of his situation. David likens them to lions, fierce and hungry, ready to pounce at any moment.

This depiction serves as a stark reminder of the challenges we may face in our own lives. We, too, may encounter individuals or circumstances that seek to harm us. However, just as David did, we can turn to God for protection and deliverance, trusting that He is more than able to rescue us from the jaws of our adversaries.

In verses 13 and 14, David calls on God to take action: “Arise, O Lord! Stand against them, and bring them to their knees! Rescue me from the wicked with your sword! By the power of your hand, O Lord, destroy those who look to this world for their reward. But satisfy the hunger of your treasured ones. May their children have plenty, leaving an inheritance for their descendants.”

David’s plea for divine intervention is both fervent and specific. He asks God to rise up and confront his enemies, bringing them to their knees. At the same time, David contrasts the fate of the wicked with the blessings God bestows on His treasured ones, ensuring that their needs are met and their children are provided for.

This passage encourages us to bring our battles to God, asking Him to intervene on our behalf. We can trust that God is not only aware of our struggles but is also actively working to bring about justice and deliverance for His people.

David concludes Psalm 17 with a powerful declaration of hope: “Because I am righteous, I will see you. When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied” (verse 15). This verse reflects David’s confidence in his relationship with God and his anticipation of a future encounter with the Divine.

For David, righteousness is not just a moral obligation but a source of hope and joy. The promise of seeing God face to face and finding satisfaction in His presence is a beautiful culmination of his prayer. It underscores the ultimate reward for those who live righteously and seek God with all their hearts.

This concluding verse invites us to consider our own relationship with God. Are we living in a way that reflects our commitment to righteousness? Do we eagerly anticipate the day when we will see God face to face? Let us hold fast to this hope, knowing that our efforts to live righteously will be rewarded with the joy of God’s presence.

As we reflect on Psalm 17, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

Pray with Honesty and Integrity: Approach God with a sincere heart, trusting that He hears and understands our deepest desires and concerns.

Commit to Righteous Living: Strive to live righteously in all areas of life, staying true to God’s commands and avoiding the influence of the wicked.

Seek God’s Protection: In times of trouble, turn to God for refuge and safety, knowing that His unfailing love and mighty power are a sure defense against our enemies.

Trust in Divine Justice: Bring our battles to God, trusting in His ability to bring about justice and deliverance for His people.

Anticipate the Joy of God’s Presence: Live with the hope of one day seeing God face to face and finding satisfaction in His presence.

As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we deepen our relationship with God and reflect His character to those around us. Praying with honesty and integrity fosters a deeper connection with our Creator. Committing to righteous living sets us on the path of true fulfillment and joy.

Seeking God’s protection brings peace and security, even amid life’s storms. Trusting in divine justice gives us the courage to face adversity, knowing God is our advocate and defender. And anticipating the joy of God’s presence fills our hearts with hope and purpose.

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 17, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Approach God with sincerity, commit to righteousness, seek His protection, trust in His justice, and live with the hope of one day seeing Him face to face. By doing so, we align ourselves with the timeless wisdom of this Psalm and live lives that are pleasing to God.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 17 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2437 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’re diving into the second half of Psalm 16, specifically verses 7 through 11, from the New Living Translation. This portion of the Psalm continues David’s expression of trust and joy in God, and it beautifully encapsulates themes of guidance, joy, security, and eternal life. Let’s explore these verses and uncover the profound truths they hold for us today.

David begins this section by expressing his gratitude for God’s guidance: “I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me” (verse 7). This verse highlights the constant and intimate guidance that God provides. David acknowledges that God’s wisdom and direction are not limited to specific times or circumstances but are available even in the stillness of the night.

This guidance is not just intellectual but also heartfelt. David’s heart instructs him because it is attuned to God’s wisdom. For us today, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s guidance is always available if we seek it. Whether through prayer, scripture, or the prompting of the Holy Spirit, God is eager to lead us on the right path. We should cultivate a sensitivity to His direction, allowing Him to instruct our hearts even in our quiet moments.

In verse 8, David declares, “I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.” This powerful statement reflects David’s unwavering confidence in God’s presence. The assurance of God’s nearness brings stability and strength, enabling David to face any challenge without fear.

This verse speaks to the profound truth that God’s presence is a constant source of support. When we acknowledge that God is always with us, we can remain steadfast and unshaken, regardless of our circumstances. The knowledge that God is right beside us, guiding and protecting us, provides a foundation of security and peace.

Imagine facing life’s difficulties with the confidence that the Creator of the universe is by your side. This truth transforms our perspective, enabling us to confront challenges with courage and assurance. We can draw strength from God’s presence, knowing we are never alone.

David continues in verse 9, “No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety.” The recognition of God’s constant presence fills David with joy and peace. His heart rejoices, and his body finds rest in the safety provided by God.

This verse beautifully illustrates the connection between spiritual assurance and physical well-being. When our hearts are at peace, our bodies can rest. Joy and safety go hand in hand, as the awareness of God’s protection brings both emotional and physical relief.

For us, this verse is a reminder that true joy and rest are found in God. In a world filled with stress and anxiety, we can find solace in God’s presence. When we trust in His protection and provision, our hearts can rejoice, and our bodies can experience genuine rest. This holistic sense of well-being is a precious gift from our loving Father.

Verse 10 introduces a profound promise: “For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave.” This verse carries both immediate and prophetic significance. For David, it expressed confidence that God would preserve him and not abandon him to the realm of the dead. However, it also prophetically points to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Holy One who would not see decay.

This verse is a cornerstone of Christian hope. It assures us that death is not the end for those who trust in God. Through the resurrection of Jesus, we have the promise of eternal life. This hope transforms our perspective on life and death, offering assurance that we will be with God forever.

The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of our faith, providing victory over sin and death. Because He lives, we too shall live. This eternal hope fills us with joy and courage, knowing that nothing, not even death, can separate us from God’s love.

David concludes this Psalm with a powerful declaration in verse 11: “You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.” This verse encapsulates the ultimate promise of God’s guidance, joy, and eternal fellowship.

God shows us the way of life, leading us on a path that brings true fulfillment and joy. This path is characterized by His presence, which is the source of ultimate joy. The pleasures of living with God are not temporary or fleeting; they are eternal and deeply satisfying.

This verse invites us to embrace the abundant life that God offers. When we walk in His ways, we experience the fullness of joy that comes from being in His presence. The pleasures of living with God forever are beyond anything this world can offer. This eternal perspective encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God and seek His guidance in all areas of life.

As we reflect on Psalm 16:7-11, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

Seek God’s Guidance: Embrace the wisdom and direction that God offers. Cultivate a heart that is attuned to His guidance, allowing Him to lead you even in the quiet moments of life.

Trust in God’s Presence: Recognize that God is always with you. Draw strength and stability from His nearness, knowing that you are never alone.

Rejoice in God’s Protection: Let the assurance of God’s protection fill your heart with joy and peace. Find rest in the safety provided by your loving Father.

Hope in Eternal Life: Hold fast to the promise of eternal life through the resurrection of Jesus. Let this hope transform your perspective on life and death, filling you with courage and joy.

Walk the Path of Life: Follow the path that God sets before you, embracing the joy and pleasures of His presence. Prioritize your relationship with Him and seek His guidance in all areas of your life.

As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we draw closer to God and reflect His character to those around us. Seeking God’s guidance helps us make wise decisions and stay on the right path. Trusting in His presence provides us with stability and courage to face any challenge.

Rejoicing in God’s protection fills our hearts with peace and joy, allowing us to rest in His care. Holding onto the hope of eternal life gives us assurance and transforms our perspective on life and death. Walking the path of life that God sets before us leads to true fulfillment and eternal joy.

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 16:7-11, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Seek God’s guidance, trust in His presence, rejoice in His protection, hold onto the hope of eternal life, and walk the path of life that He sets before you. By doing so, we align ourselves with the timeless wisdom of this Psalm and live lives that are pleasing to God.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 16 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2436 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

 

Today is the seventeenth lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God’s redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it’s also a book that seems strange to us. While God’s Word was written for us, it wasn’t written to us. Today, our lesson is, The Divine Arrow.

Few characters in the Bible are as maligned for their wickedness as King Ahab of Israel. While Ahab’s predecessors “did evil in the sight of the Lord’ Ahab had an agenda:  He did more to provoke the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, than any of the other kings of Israel before him. (1 Kgs 16:33).

Ahab’s rule includes Baal worship, forbidden foreign covenants (Syria) and foreign alliances (Jezebel), and the murder of Naboth. In 1 Kings 22, the prophet Micaiah warns Ahab of his impending fate. This isn’t a run-of-the-mill prophecy. It’s mixed with a vision of how God came to the final details of His decision: a divine boardroom discussion.

The 12 tribes of Israel had been split into two kingdoms for a century by the time Ahab took the throne (ca. 869 bc). Ahab ruled the northern kingdom (called Israel or Ephraim), which often fought with the southern kingdom, Judah. After peace reigned between Israel and Judah for three years (22:1), Ahab decided he wanted to capture the city of Ramoth in Gilead from the Arameans. He asked Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, for military assistance.

Jehoshaphat agreed to the battle for political reasons, but he wanted assurance that God was in the endeavor (22:5). The 400 prophetic yes-men Ahab consulted endorsed the idea, but Jehoshaphat wanted another opinion (22:6, 11-12). Ahab agreed to summon Micaiah, the prophet of Yahweh, though he openly admitted to hating him (22:8). The real prophet of Yahweh never had anything positive to say about the ungodly Ahab and his rule.

At first, Micaiah told Ahab that God loved the plan, but Ahab saw through his mockery. Apparently, this was not the first time: “How many times must I demand that you speak only the truth to me when you speak for the Lord?” (22:16). Micaiah proceeded to tell Ahab he was about to meet his Maker, so chances are good he wanted Ahab to go through with the battle, knowing the end result.

Rebuked by Ahab, Micaiah holds nothing back, revealing to Ahab and to us the inner workings of God’s counsel:

23 “So you see, the Lord has put a lying spirit in the mouths of all your prophets. For the Lord has pronounced your doom.” (22:20-23).

The vision-prophecy shows God had decreed it was time for Ahab to die, but He allows the members of the divine assembly to weigh in on Ahab’s death. Nothing in the passage compels us to conclude that the omniscient God needed input. Ahab’s death was fixed and determined, but the Lord allowed the divine beings in His presence to decide on his mode of departure. This is consistent with other passages, such as Daniel 4:17-26, where a decision from heaven is described as both the decree of the Most High and a decree of the watchers, the holy ones who work for God.

Despite Micaiah’s warning, Ahab and Jehoshaphat go into battle. Ahab opts to disguise himself as an ordinary soldier, but his ruse fails. He is killed by an arrow from An Aramean soldier, however, randomly shot an arrow at the Israelite troops and hit the king of Israel between the joints of his armor. “Turn the horses[a] and get me out of here!” Ahab groaned to the driver of his chariot. “I’m badly wounded!” (1 Kgs 22:34). In the larger scheme—it’s not random at all.

The lessons that make up Theology Thursday on the Wisdom-Trek Podcast for the next couple of years will satisfy the statement, “I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible.” I trust you’ll enjoy them—and, of course, not be bored.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2435 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’re diving into Psalm 16:1-6 from the New Living Translation. This Psalm, attributed to David, is a beautiful expression of trust and confidence in God’s protection and provision. As we read through these verses, we’ll explore the themes of refuge, loyalty, joy, and inheritance. Let’s embark on this journey together.

David begins this Psalm with a heartfelt plea in verse 1: “Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.” This opening line sets the tone for the entire Psalm, establishing a foundation of trust and dependence on God. David acknowledges his vulnerability and recognizes that true safety and security come from seeking refuge in the Lord. This sentiment resonates with us today, reminding us that we can find shelter and protection in times of uncertainty and danger in God.

The concept of refuge is not merely about physical safety; it encompasses spiritual and emotional security as well. When we turn to God, we find a sanctuary for our souls, a place where we are shielded from the storms of life. This assurance allows us to face challenges with confidence, knowing that we are under the care of a loving and powerful God.

In verse 2, David declares, “I said to the Lord, ‘You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you.’” This statement is a profound acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and generosity. By referring to God as his Master, David is expressing his submission and devotion. He recognizes that all the blessings in his life are gifts from God.

This verse invites us to reflect on our own lives and recognize God’s hand in the good things we experience. It’s easy to take our blessings for granted or attribute them to our own efforts, but David’s words remind us to give credit where it’s due. Every good and perfect gift comes from above, and acknowledging this truth fosters a heart of gratitude and humility.

 

David continues in verse 3, “The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them!” Here, David shifts his focus to the community of believers. He finds joy and inspiration in the company of those who live righteously. The godly people are his heroes, serving as examples of faith and integrity.

This verse highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who encourage and uplift us. In a world that often glorifies superficial values, it’s refreshing to take pleasure in those who exemplify godliness. Being part of a faith community provides support, accountability, and inspiration, helping us to grow in our own walk with God.

In verse 4, David contrasts his devotion to God with the fate of those who chase after other gods: “Troubles multiply for those who chase after other gods. I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood or even speak the names of their gods.” David is resolute in his commitment to the one true God, refusing to engage in idolatry or participate in pagan rituals.

This verse serves as a warning against the allure of false gods and the consequences of idolatry. In today’s context, idolatry may not involve literal idols but can manifest in various forms, such as materialism, power, or pleasure. David’s example encourages us to remain steadfast in our devotion to God, rejecting anything that seeks to take His place in our lives.

Verses 5 and 6 form a beautiful declaration of trust and contentment: “Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance!” David acknowledges that God Himself is his inheritance and blessing. He recognizes that all he has comes from God and is safeguarded by Him.

The imagery of inheritance and a cup of blessing speaks to the abundance and satisfaction found in God. Unlike earthly inheritances that can be temporary and uncertain, our inheritance in God is eternal and secure. David’s words remind us to find our fulfillment and joy in our relationship with God, knowing He is our greatest treasure.

The reference to the land being a “pleasant land” and a “wonderful inheritance” reflects contentment and gratitude for God’s provision. It’s an invitation to appreciate the blessings we have and recognize the goodness of God’s gifts in our lives. When we see our lives through the lens of God’s provision, we cultivate a heart of thanksgiving and joy.

As we reflect on Psalm 16:1-6, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

Seek Refuge in God: In times of trouble and uncertainty, turn to God for protection and security. He is our safe haven, offering peace and stability amidst life’s challenges.

Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty: Recognize that every good thing in your life comes from God. Cultivate a heart of gratitude and humility by acknowledging His generosity and sovereignty.

Value Godly Community: Find joy and inspiration in the company of fellow believers. Surround yourself with those who encourage and uplift you in your faith journey.

Reject Idolatry: Stay steadfast in your devotion to God, rejecting anything that seeks to take His place in your life. Beware of modern-day idols and prioritize your relationship with God.

Embrace God as Your Inheritance: Find your fulfillment and joy in God, recognizing that He is your greatest treasure. Appreciate the blessings He has given you and cultivate a heart of contentment and gratitude.

As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we draw closer to God and reflect His character to those around us. Seeking refuge in God provides us with peace and stability in the midst of life’s storms. Acknowledging God’s sovereignty fosters gratitude and humility, helping us to see His hand in every blessing.

Valuing godly community strengthens our faith and encourages us to live righteously. Rejecting idolatry keeps our hearts aligned with God’s purposes, preventing anything from taking His place. Embracing God as our inheritance reminds us that our true satisfaction and joy come from our relationship with Him.

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 16:1-6, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Seek refuge in God, acknowledge His sovereignty, value your faith community, reject idolatry, and embrace God as your inheritance. By doing so, we align ourselves with the timeless wisdom of this Psalm and live lives that are pleasing to God.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 16 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Putnam Church Message – 07/28/2024

Last week, we learned That prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. God’s Word is the Source of Truth; we should drink from it daily. If you miss any messages, you can watch them online on our FaceBook page or at PutnamChurch.org.

Today’s passage is 2 Peter 2:1-3, on page 1894 of your Pew Bibles, and I will read it from the NLT for the clarity of flow.

Chances are we’ve all been victimized by a con artist at some time in our lives. Perhaps more than once! Maybe it’s been years ... or maybe it was only yesterday. It could be as harmless as losing your spare change playing a rigged game at a carnival. Or it may be as disastrous as losing your retirement in an investment scam. It’s possible that the deception nearly cost you your sanity, as we personally experienced. For us, it was partners in our computer business who were less than ethical, which resulted in forcing us to close our computer business in 2001 after 18 years and having to start over again.

Of all the cons to which we might fall prey in this world, the most damaging is the deception of religious phonies. Swindlers of this kind deal in counterfeit truth, an imitation meant to fool the unsuspecting. Every day, peddlers of falsehood receive nodding approval on social media, television, bookstores, on the silver screen—and, unfortunately, behind pulpits. Counterfeit truth is big business. Look at all sorts of media today that keep us riled up and fearful to keep us watching and their advertising revenue flowing. Today, ministries have been formed to counter counterfeits and challenge the charlatans. Books that catalog and refute cults are often massive and can only treat their false teachings in a summary manner.

In 2 Peter 2, that rugged apostle candidly describes false teachers who traffic in religious things but lack authentic faith. Appearing to be resourceful and honest, they are empty and deceitful. Claiming to offer answers and hope, they bring lies and despair. Pretending to proclaim reliable information, they use the same words as believers but a different dictionary. And acting like those who have embraced Christian freedom, they are enslaved by corruption and seek to enslave others. They may look like they are succeeding, and the heretics’ score may be much higher than the saints. But in reality, they are merely heaping up judgment for themselves in the coming day of wrath.

Peter wrote this letter to remind believers of sound teaching, to encourage diligence in the faith, and to strengthen biblical foundations of beliefs and practices. Chapter 2 explores the kinds of people who forget sound doctrine, turn away from the faith, and deviate from biblical belief and practice. As such, this sometimes gloomy but always truthful and ever-relevant section of Denunciation of False Teachers serves as a warning to us all.

In 2 Corinthians 11:3, Paul writes about the world’s first con artist:  But I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent. A little later, Paul describes the deceiver’s disciples: 13 These people are false apostles. They are deceitful workers who disguise themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. (2 Cor. 11:13-14). Don’t miss the description of Satan’s methods in these verses. He deceives, leads minds astray, clouds the simplicity of Christian devotion, disguises himself as good and glorious, and enrolls others in his mass deception.

False teachers often appear doctrinally sound, personally attractive, sincere, and logically compelling. But they are deceivers, mind-benders, and truth-twisters. In 2 Peter 2:1-3, Peter warns his readers to be aware of their wicked schemes.

At the end of chapter 1, Peter pointed to the Holy Scriptures and the apostles’ testimony as the trustworthy source of truth through godly prophets. Scripture can be believed because true prophets, being moved by the Holy Spirit, spoke from God (1:21). But false prophets had worked their way into the ranks alongside the true prophets of God, peddling their cheap imitations of the truth. Peter says that in the same way, false prophets would rise up alongside the preachers of the truth in his own day. Just as God had sent true apostles and prophets of Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit, Satan would send his own false apostles and prophets. The phrase “also false prophets” implies a black-and-white contrast between the words of true prophets and false prophets. (Bulletin)

In light of this contrast, Peter presents at least four specific characteristics of false teachers in 2:1-3.

They deceitfully present heresy (2:1a).

They openly deny the truth (2:1b).

They unashamedly model sensuality (2:2).

They selfishly represent greed (2:3).

First, the false prophets who will be among the Christians will “cleverly teach destructive heresies” (2:1a). The term “heresies” comes directly from the Greek word hairesis, which conveys the idea of “making a choice.”

With stealth and cleverness, the “heretics” offer up alluring alternatives to the truth. Often, they do this by rejecting aspects of the truth that are difficult to accept, either intellectually or emotionally. They create something much more appealing and seductive, urging others to “make a choice” as they consider an alternative way of thinking. This isn’t always an offensive or obvious insult to the truth. Instead, they “cleverly teach” their doctrines, camouflaging them in something that looks like the truth in form but denies it in substance.

Warren Wiersbe puts it well: “The false teachers use our vocabulary, but they do not use our dictionary!” They talk about “sin,” “salvation,” “inspiration,” “God,” “Jesus Christ,” and “resurrection”—but they don’t mean what the Bible means by these terms. Sin may be a failure to actualize our human potential. Salvation might mean self-actualization or psychological well-being. To false teachers today, Scripture is inspired in the same way great poetry or literature is “inspired.” God is often seen as our personal higher power (the universe), a projection of our need to believe in a transcendent reality beyond ourselves. Jesus Christ is viewed as a great moral teacher with a high degree of God-consciousness—or as a cosmic symbol for the highest human potential. Resurrection is just a metaphor for keeping Jesus “alive” by observing His teachings and following His ethics. False teachers rethink and redefine terms, encouraging us to question long-standing doctrines. They hate the “conservative” form of Christianity, preferring a “progressive” form that constantly modifies fundamental truths to “update” them.

The second characteristic of false teachers is that they even deny the Master who bought them (2:1b). They will be known for what they deny about Jesus Christ’s person and work>even more than what they embrace. This is because they intentionally set themselves up against the true prophets,>Scriptures,>and> the church. They reject many—if not all—of the orthodox truths of historical Christianity outlined in the Bible and reaffirmed over and over again throughout history. From the church’s earliest days to the present, Christians have held certain biblical doctrines of the faith as central, defining marks of orthodoxy. Those who have strayed from this center of orthodoxy have been regarded as outside the true Christian faith. These core truths include the following:

the inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture

one eternal, triune God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

the undiminished deity and true humanity of Jesus Christ

Christ’s virgin birth, sinless life, substitutionary death for sin, miraculous bodily resurrection, and literal future return

the unique creation and subsequent fall of humanity

salvation by grace through faith

the eternal life of believers and condemnation of unbelievers

Are such false teachers saved? According to what Peter writes in this chapter, we can conclude that those guilty of teaching doctrines at extreme odds with classic orthodoxy are not, in fact, Spirit-regenerated believers.

Peter says they “even deny the Master who bought them”—rejecting Jesus Christ’s payment for their sins. Christ paid a price for the sins of the world by dying in place of wicked humanity, taking our deserved punishment on Himself as a righteous substitute. Though Christ’s death is sufficient payment for everybody’s sins (1 Jn. 2:1-2), only those who believe in Him receive the benefit of this salvation (John 3:16-18). The false teachers are in a particularly problematic predicament, because although they had heard the preaching about Christ’s redemption, they rejected it, replacing it with false teachings about the Master. Because of this rejection, they are clearly lost.

Peter also says these counterfeit communicators will bring sudden destruction on themselves (2:1). In the rest of the New Testament, the term for destruction (ia/põ/leia), often refers to the judgment and damnation of the unsaved (Matt. 7:13; Phil. 1:28; Heb. 10:39). More importantly, Peter himself certainly uses the term for the judgment of the unsaved (2 Pet. 2:3; 3:7, 16). True believers—those who have been saved by faith in Jesus Christ and forever sealed by the Holy Spirit—may doubt, be deceived, and sin. However, they can never utterly fall away and lose their salvation. Never! God, in His powerful grace, keeps them forever in His hand (John 10:29; Rom. 8:38-39; Jude 1:24). We must therefore conclude that those who appear to us to “fall away” from the faith, denying the essential truths of Christianity, either they have entirely rejected their believing loyalty to Christ or were never truly saved, as the apostle John says regarding some counterfeit communicators in his own day: These people left our churches, but they never really belonged with us; otherwise they would have stayed with us. When they left, it proved that they did not belong with us. (1 Jn. 2:19).

The third characteristic of  Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. The term for “shameful immorality” (asel/geia) is an extremely vivid Greek word for blatant immorality. Commentator William Barclay says it “describes the attitude of a man who is lost to shame; he is past the stage of wishing to conceal his sin and of being ashamed of it.” Here, Peter gives us an insight into the underlying motivation for tampering with the truth. To be free to indulge their carnal appetites without restraint, they must redefine the standard of righteousness.

Let’s face it. Religions that say, “Do whatever you want,” are much more appealing to our sinful desires than the one that teaches, “Live by God’s precepts.” So, many follow the lure of sensuality, unbridled moral freedom, and their immoral behavior masked by a twisted doctrine of grace. To deceivers, “grace” is the freedom to do as they wish—when, where, and with whom they want to. In contrast, for believers, grace is freedom from the punishment of sin and the God-given power to love and serve Christ freely, apart from legalistic dos and don’ts.

Suppose you want to find a big following. In that case, all you need to do is develop a religion that removes the restraints on people’s behavior and offers benefits that appeal to their base urges—pleasure, greed, selfishness. The result will be instant popularity. But at the same time, those teachers and followers will bring reproach on the name of Christ. Because such teachers refuse to abandon the name “Christian,” their devious and deviant behaviors are associated with Christianity, which damages the cause of Christ and impedes the great commission.

The fourth characteristic is that, in their greed, they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money. The word “exploit” (emporeuomai) is a marketing term meaning to traffic or trade. Indeed, false teachers are so often motivated by unrestrained greed for money. And to fill their coffers, they are masters of what Peter calls “clever lies.” The word “lies” translates from the Greek word plastos, which describes things that are false, fabricated, or counterfeit. By replacing the truth with a cheap—but convincing— imitation, false teachers want to make it easy for us to adopt falsehood instead of the truth.

Our heresy meters should buzz loudly when we see an overwhelming emphasis on money. When the preacher’s whole theology presents miraculous ways of acquiring financial blessings, alarms should go off in our minds. If the application of virtually every message is to sow a financial seed or reap a material harvest, run. If the only texts they teach from have to do with satisfying self-serving desires, leave skid marks. A faithful minister of the gospel preaches the whole counsel of God—even the parts that are uncomfortable, unappreciated, and unpopular. It’s okay to make a living teaching and preaching the gospel (1 Cor. 9:14), but they shouldn’t make a killing. A teacher serves others, not themselves. They live in a house, not a palace or amusement park. They drive a car, not a limousine. They are accountable, not unaccountable. They are transparent with their finances, don’t flatter or sell out, refuse to cater to the wealthy, and exhibit none of the unbridled greed attributes. Their private life is an open book like ours should be, not a series of secrets.

Peter concludes his description of false teachers with a reminder of their fate. In case anybody might be tempted to trade in the truth for unhindered immorality and unlimited greed, Peter reminds us that the judgment of false teachers is imminent. It may appear for the time being that false prophets are getting away with their wicked deceptions, But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed. God is prepared |at the proper time.| His judgments grind slowly yet exceedingly fine.

Peter wrote this letter to remind believers of sound teaching, to encourage diligence in the faith, and to strengthen biblical foundations of belief and practice. In Peter’s day, counterfeit communicators represented a clear and present danger threatening to undo orthodoxy, weaken faith, and lure people away from holy living. The same dark menace threatens the church today. Beware!

Not to downplay the threat of false teachers in Peter’s day, but with the advent of social media, radio, television, and the internet, the early trickles of trickery in the first century have become a hurricane of heresy in the twenty-first. How can we avoid being swept away by the high-velocity winds and torrential rains of Satanic deception? Let me give you three practical tips to protect us from the acid rain of deception: stop, look, and listen.

STOP! Refuse to plunge into a certain person’s teaching because it appears harmless on the surface. You could find yourself in a deep abyss of deception. It’s never enough that others have been entertained, persuaded, inspired, or blessed by a charming person, church, or ministry. Put the brakes on long enough to compare the views being taught with the clear teaching of the Holy Scripture and the central doctrines of the faith. Don’t be afraid to turn and run if things don’t feel right deep within your spirit. As we learned last week, we are to drink deeply from God’s Word.

LOOK! Observe the life of the leading spokespersons for any particular ministry, movement, or government official. Do they model Christlike values and virtues? Do they point to Christ or themselves? Do you see accountability and transparency? Do they exhibit true humility?...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2433 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’re delving into Psalm 15 from the New Living Translation. This short but profound Psalm, attributed to David, serves as a guide for righteous living and highlights the qualities that God desires in those who wish to dwell in His presence. As we read through Psalm 15:1-5, we’ll explore the attributes of a person who lives a life pleasing to God and what it means to truly live with integrity. Let’s embark on this journey together.

 

David begins this Psalm with a profound question in verse 1: “Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?” This question sets the stage for the entire Psalm, prompting us to consider what it takes to be in God’s presence. It’s not merely about physical entry into a place of worship but about living in harmony with God’s values.

David’s use of “sanctuary” and “holy hill” signifies a place of divine presence and fellowship. It’s an invitation to reflect on our own lives and whether they align with the standards set by God. This question is timeless, urging every generation to ponder what living a life worthy of God’s presence means.

In verse 2, David provides the first part of the answer: “Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts.” Here, we see the importance of integrity and righteousness. Leading a blameless life doesn’t mean being perfect but striving to live in a way that reflects God’s character. It involves doing what is right, not just in public but in the innermost parts of our hearts.

Speaking the truth from sincere hearts highlights the value of honesty and authenticity. God desires truthfulness in our words and sincerity in our intentions. In a world where deception can often seem advantageous, maintaining integrity and truthfulness is a mark of a life pleasing to God.

David continues in verse 3, outlining behaviors that are contrary to a righteous life: “Those who refuse to gossip or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends.” This verse emphasizes the importance of our speech and actions toward others. Gossip, harm, and slander are destructive behaviors that undermine relationships and community.

Refusing to engage in gossip means abstaining from spreading rumors or speaking ill of others behind their backs. Harming our neighbors, whether through actions or words, is against the principles of love and respect God calls us to uphold. Speaking evil of friends breaches trust and damages the bonds of fellowship. David’s admonition is clear: those who wish to dwell with God must cultivate a spirit of kindness, respect, and love toward others.

In verse 4, David describes additional attributes of the righteous: “Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord, and keep their promises even when it hurts.” This verse presents a balanced perspective on our relationships with others. Despising flagrant sinners refers to rejecting the influence of those who blatantly live in opposition to God’s ways. It doesn’t mean hating individuals but rather not condoning or being swayed by their sinful behaviors.

Honoring faithful followers of the Lord is about valuing and respecting those who are committed to God. It’s recognizing and supporting those who live righteously. Even when it hurts, keeping promises underscores the importance of faithfulness and reliability. In a world where breaking promises can be justified by convenience, standing firm in our commitments reflects God’s unwavering faithfulness.

David addresses financial integrity in verse 5: “Those who lend money without charging interest, and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent.” This verse highlights ethical financial practices and the importance of justice. Lending money without charging interest was a principle meant to protect the vulnerable in society. It reflects a spirit of generosity and fairness.

Refusing to be bribed underscores the importance of justice and truth. Injustice often thrives on corruption, and being steadfast in integrity ensures that we do not contribute to the oppression of the innocent. David’s call is for a commitment to righteousness in all aspects of life, including our financial dealings.

David concludes this Psalm with a powerful promise: “Such people will stand firm forever.” This assurance is a reminder that living a life of integrity and righteousness has lasting value. While the world around us may be unstable and uncertain, those who live according to God’s principles will have a firm foundation. This stability is not just for the present but extends into eternity.

Living in accordance with God’s standards provides a sense of security and peace. It aligns us with the unchanging character of God, who is our ultimate refuge and strength. This promise encourages us to persevere in righteousness, knowing it is not in vain.

As we reflect on Psalm 15:1-5, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

Strive for Integrity: Leading a blameless life involves striving for integrity and righteousness in all aspects of our lives. It’s about being authentic and truthful in our actions and words.

Guard Our Speech: Our speech has the power to build up or tear down. Refusing to gossip, harm, or slander others is crucial in maintaining healthy relationships and communities.

Value Commitment: Keeping our promises, even when it’s difficult, reflects God’s faithfulness. Honoring our commitments builds trust and integrity in our relationships.

Practice Financial Ethics: Ethical financial practices and justice in our dealings reflect God’s character. Generosity and fairness should guide our interactions, especially with the vulnerable.

Seek Stability in God: Living according to God’s principles provides a firm foundation. In a world of uncertainty, aligning ourselves with God’s unchanging character offers security and peace.

As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we draw closer to God and reflect His character to those around us. Striving for integrity in all we do brings honor to God and strengthens our witness. Guarding our speech and valuing commitment fosters trust and respect in our relationships. Practicing financial ethics ensures that our dealings are just and fair, promoting equity and generosity.

Seeking stability in God provides us with the assurance that we stand on a firm foundation, no matter the challenges we face. This assurance enables us to navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence and peace.

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 15:1-5, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Strive for integrity, guard your speech, value your commitments, practice financial ethics, and seek stability in God. By doing so, we align ourselves with the timeless wisdom of this Psalm and live lives that are pleasing to God.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 15 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2432 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’ll delve into the powerful and thought-provoking Psalm 14 from the New Living Translation. This Psalm, attributed to David, provides a vivid portrayal of humanity’s folly and the hope found in God’s salvation. As we read through Psalm 14:1-7, we’ll explore the depths of human nature and the assurance of God’s deliverance. Let’s embark on this journey together.

David begins Psalm 14 with a stark declaration: “Only fools say in their hearts, ‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; not one of them does good!” (verse 1). This opening verse sets the tone for the entire Psalm, emphasizing the folly of denying God’s existence. David uses the term “fools” not to describe a lack of intelligence but a moral deficiency. The fool, in this context, is someone who lives as though there is no accountability to a higher power.

This denial leads to corruption and evil actions. When one rejects the foundational truth of God’s existence, moral decay follows. This verse challenges us to consider the importance of acknowledging God in our lives and the moral implications of our beliefs.

In verses 2 and 3, David paints a picture of God’s perspective: “The Lord looks down from heaven on the entire human race; he looks to see if anyone is truly wise, if anyone seeks God. But no, all have turned away; all have become corrupt. No one does good, not a single one!”

Here, we see God’s active involvement in human affairs. He searches for those who are wise and seek Him. However, the verdict is bleak—everyone has turned away, and no one does good. This universal statement highlights the pervasive nature of sin and the universal need for redemption. It echoes the sentiment found in Romans 3:23, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.”

These verses call us to reflect on our own lives and our need for God’s grace. Without His guidance and redemption, we are prone to stray and fall into corruption.

David continues in verses 4 to 6, describing the behavior of the wicked and the fate that awaits them: “Will those who do evil never learn? They eat up my people like bread and wouldn’t think of praying to the Lord. Terror will grip them, for God is with those who obey him. The wicked frustrate the plans of the oppressed, but the Lord will protect his people.”

The wicked are depicted as those who prey on God’s people without any regard for righteousness or prayer. Their actions are not only harmful but also thoughtless. They live without the fear of God, yet David warns that terror will grip them because God is with those who obey Him.

This contrast between the wicked and the righteous highlights God’s protective care over His people. Even though the wicked may seem powerful and oppressive, God’s presence with the righteous ensures their ultimate safety and vindication. It’s a reminder that God’s justice will prevail, and those who trust in Him will be protected.

The Psalm concludes with a hopeful proclamation in verse 7: “Who will come from Mount Zion to rescue Israel? When the Lord restores his people, Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice.”

This verse shifts from the present reality of wickedness and oppression to the future hope of deliverance and restoration. Mount Zion represents God’s holy hill, the place of His presence and power. The question posed—“Who will come from Mount Zion to rescue Israel?”—anticipates a divine intervention.

The answer is clear: it is the Lord who will restore His people. This promise of restoration brings joy and rejoicing. Jacob and Israel, representing the people of God, will celebrate their deliverance. This verse encapsulates the hope and assurance that despite the current state of the world, God’s ultimate plan is to rescue and restore His people.

As we reflect on Psalm 14:1-7, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

Acknowledge God’s Existence: The Psalm begins with a warning against denying God. Acknowledging God’s existence and sovereignty is the foundation of wisdom and moral living.

Recognize Our Need for God: The universal statement of human corruption reminds us of our need for God’s grace and redemption. We are all in need of His saving power.

Trust in God’s Justice: The contrast between the wicked and the righteous assures us that God’s justice will prevail. He will protect and vindicate His people.

Hope in God’s Deliverance: The promise of restoration from Mount Zion fills us with hope. No matter how bleak the present may seem, God’s ultimate plan is to rescue and restore His people.

As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we deepen our relationship with God and strengthen our faith. Acknowledging God’s existence in our decisions and actions leads us to live wisely. Recognizing our need for God’s grace keeps us humble and reliant on Him. Trusting in God’s justice gives us peace, knowing that He will ultimately right all wrongs. Hoping in God’s deliverance fills us with joy and perseverance, even in challenging times.

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 14:1-7, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Acknowledge God, recognize our need for Him, trust in His justice, and hope in His deliverance. By doing so, we align ourselves with the timeless wisdom of this Psalm and navigate life’s challenges with faith and assurance.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 14 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2431 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

Today is the sixteenth lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God’s redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it’s also a book that seems strange to us. While God’s Word was written for us, it wasn’t written to us. Today, our lesson is, When Giants Walked the Earth.

If they haven’t read it, most people have at least heard the story of David and Goliath of Gath (“the Gittite”). The names of the hero and villain have iconic status. But how many people know anything about the giant Goliath, other than that he lost his head to a boy named David from Israel?

2 Samuel 21:15-22 and 1 Chronicles 20:4-8 tell us that there were other unusually tall warriors among the Philistines. The lists are not identical, but putting them together we read that there were four: Saph (also called Sippai), Lahmi, Ishbibenob, and an unnamed warrior. The descriptions are similar to those given by Goliath, noting “great stature” and the dimensions of their weaponry. Unlike Goliath or any other named warriors, the unnamed giant is said to have six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot. This malformation, known as polydactylism, is only mentioned in the description of this giant. The Bible does not mention it when it discusses other giant clans.

Wait a minute—giant clans?

There are several people groups described as giants or among whom giants lived in the Old Testament:

There are the Anakim, who are descendants from the Nephilim mentioned in Genesis 6:1-4 (compare Num 13:33), and whom the people of Israel encountered under Moses, and later under Joshua (Num 13:22-33; Tosh 15:13-14).

At one time, before the children of Israel traveled through the Transjordan, the land to the east of the Jordan River was heavily populated with tall people known as Emim (Deut 2:10-11) and the Zamzummim, also called the Zuzim (Deut 2:20).

The Amorites, another group that stood in the way of Israel claiming the promised land, are described as being exceptionally tall (Amos 2:9- 10).

Lastly, there were the Rephaim, which are mentioned nearly 20 times, most often in association with the conquest of the promised land, when Moses encountered King Og of Bashan, whose bed measured to 13 feet in length (Deut 2:11, 20-22: 3:11-13: Tosh 12:4:13:13).

Goliath was Rephaim. He and the four giant warriors listed alongside him are descended from Rapha (non) in Gath (2 Sam 21:22: 1 Chr 20:8). If rapha is interpreted as a proper name, Rapha, then the four warriors were all brothers of Goliath. The biblical text does not actually say this. Only one of these men, Lahmi, is specifically said to be the brother of Goliath. Therefore, it is best to translate the term as “giants” or “Rephaim,” as many English translations do.

Some of the Rephaim giants survived the wars of Moses and Joshua, and their descendants settled in the Philistine city of Gath. The other warriors who accompanied Goliath may not have been brothers, but they were all part of an enduring and unusual lineage that challenged Israel for their land and opposed their God.

The lessons that make up Theology Thursday on the Wisdom-Trek Podcast for the next couple of years will satisfy the statement, “I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible.” I trust you’ll enjoy them—and, of course, not be bored.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2430 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we will delve into the heartfelt and deeply personal Psalm 13 from the New Living Translation. This Psalm, written by David, captures the raw emotions of despair and the profound faith that ultimately triumphs. As we read through Psalm 13:1-6, we’ll explore the journey from sorrow to joy, from doubt to trust. Let’s embark on this path together.

David begins Psalm 13 with a cry that many of us can relate to: “O Lord, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way?” (verse 1). This opening verse sets the tone of the psalm as David pours out his heart, feeling abandoned and forgotten by God. The repetition of “How long” emphasizes his deep sense of despair and impatience.

In verse 2, David continues, “How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand?” Here, David’s anguish is palpable. He is not only dealing with external enemies but also struggling internally with sorrow and anguish. This dual struggle—both external and internal—adds to his sense of desperation.

These verses remind us that it’s okay to bring our raw, honest emotions before God. David’s openness with his feelings shows that God is big enough to handle our doubts, fears, and sorrows. It’s a powerful reminder that we don’t need to hide our true feelings from God; instead, we can come to Him with everything in our hearts.

In verses 3 and 4, David transitions from expressing his despair to pleading for God’s intervention: “Turn and answer me, O Lord my God! Restore the sparkle to my eyes, or I will die. Don’t let my enemies gloat, saying, ‘We have defeated him!’ Don’t let them rejoice at my downfall.”

David’s plea is urgent and heartfelt. He asks God to turn towards him and answer him, highlighting his desperate need for God’s presence and response. The phrase “restore the sparkle to my eyes” vividly expresses his desire for renewed hope and vitality. Without God’s intervention, David feels that he cannot continue; his very life depends on God’s response.

David also appeals to God’s honor by asking Him not to let his enemies gloat over his downfall. This plea underscores David’s belief that his fate is intertwined with God’s reputation. By rescuing David, God would deliver him and demonstrate His power and faithfulness to all.

Despite his anguish and desperation, David makes a profound declaration of trust in verses 5 and 6: “But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. I will sing to the Lord because he is good to me.”

This shift in tone is remarkable. David moves from pleading for help to confidently expressing his trust in God’s unfailing love. The word “but” marks a pivotal transition, indicating that despite his current circumstances, David chooses to trust in God’s steadfast love.

David’s declaration, “I will rejoice because you have rescued me,” shows his faith in God’s deliverance even before it happens. This is a powerful example of faith—believing in God’s promise of rescue and rejoicing in it, even while still amid trouble.

Finally, David concludes with a commitment to praise: “I will sing to the Lord because he is good to me.” This verse encapsulates the journey of the psalm—from despair to trust, from sorrow to praise. David’s willingness to praise God amid his trials is a testament to his deep faith and trust in God’s goodness.

As we reflect on Psalm 13:1-6, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

Be Honest with God: David’s raw honesty in expressing his feelings of abandonment and despair teaches us that it’s okay to bring our genuine emotions before God. We don’t need to hide our struggles; we can openly share them with God, knowing He hears us.

Cry Out for Help: David’s plea for God’s intervention reminds us that it’s important to actively seek God’s help in times of trouble. We can turn to God with our needs and ask Him to restore our hope and vitality.

Trust in God’s Unfailing Love: Even amid despair, David chooses to trust in God’s steadfast love. This trust transforms his perspective and enables him to rejoice in God’s promise of deliverance. We, too, can choose to trust in God’s unfailing love, knowing that He is faithful.

Rejoice in God’s Deliverance: David’s decision to rejoice in God’s rescue, even before it happens, demonstrates a powerful faith. We can learn to rejoice in God’s promises and trust in His deliverance, even when we haven’t yet seen the outcome.

Commit to Praise: Despite his struggles, David commits to praising God for His goodness. This commitment to praise, even in difficult times, can strengthen our faith and draw us closer to God.

As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we deepen our relationship with God and strengthen our faith. Being honest with God about our struggles allows us to experience His comfort and presence more fully. Crying out for help reminds us that we are not alone and that God is always ready to respond to our needs. Trusting in God’s unfailing love gives us hope and assurance, even in the darkest times. Rejoicing in God’s promises helps us maintain a positive and faithful outlook. Committing to praise keeps our hearts focused on God’s goodness and faithfulness.

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 13:1-6, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Be honest with God, cry out for His help, trust in His unfailing love, rejoice in His deliverance, and commit to praise. By doing so, we align ourselves with the timeless wisdom of this psalm and navigate life’s challenges with faith and assurance.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 13 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!