Romans Chapter 16 Vs. 1

Personal Greetings

I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: Rom 16:1

unto you Phebe... She was a deaconess of the church at Cenchrea, her duties being to attend to female converts, helping them get ready for baptism; to visit the sick and those in prison; and attend to all parts of the church work among women which could not be performed by people. She was probably the bearer of the epistle to Rome. Phoebe means bright and radiant, which fits Paul’s brief description of her personality and Christian character.

is a servant... Greek: diakonon, see, Mat. 20:26. This is one passage used in support of the office of deaconess. No specific specifications however are given of such an office. Such women are better viewed as being either the wives of deacons, or godly widows who were supported financially by the church. Here it is best to understand Phoebe’s role to be that of a helper.

In the early church, women servants cared for sick believers, the poor, strangers and those in prison. They instructed the women and children.

Whether Phoebe had an official title or not, she had the great responsibility of delivering this letter to the Roman church.

is at Cenchrea... A city on the sea coast near Corinth.

Cenchrea is the little town east of Corinth from which Paul wrote Romans.

The capital city of Rome was a magnet that drew people from all over the empire. In addition Paul’s travels to many of the major population centers — Jerusalem, Syrian Antioch, Philippi, Athens, Corinth, Ephesus — brought him into contact with the mobile segment of Roman society. These factors help explain the presence of Paul’s many friends in Rome, but his knowledge of their whereabouts remains a tribute to his deep concern for people.

Again Phoebe (which means “bright, radiant”) was Paul’s emissary to deliver this letter, so he wrote officially, I commend to you our sister Phoebe. The relationship mentioned is spiritual, not familial. Phoebe was a servant of the church in Cenchrea, a seaport a few miles east of Corinth (cf. Acts 18:18. Again the word diakonon, “servant,” is used for the office of deacon (Phlp.1:1; 1Tim. 3:8, 3:10, 3:12) as well as used generally (Rom. 15:8; 1Cor. 3:5). Use of the word with the phrase “of the church” strongly suggests some recognized position, a fact appropriate for a person serving as Paul’s emissary. 

Ezekiel Chapter 43 Vs. 2

 The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple

And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory. Eze 43:2

And behold the... In earlier chapters of this prophecy, emphasis was given to the departure of God’s glory from the temple (in chapters 8-11). Thus, the Lord abandoned His people to destruction and dispersion. Here, in the millennial temple, the glory of God returns to dwell.

God of Israel... His glory will be manifest in fullness in the future kingdom, after the Lord’s Second Advent, which is also to be glorious (Mat. 16:27; 25:31).

(Verses 1-12), describe God’s glorious entrance into the sanctuary.

came from the… The glory had been in the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-35), and the temple (1Kgs. 8:10-11), though not in Zerubbabel’s temple. Here, the Lord returns to be Israel’s King. The glory departed to the East from (Israel, 11:23), when God judged them, so the glory returns from the East when He has regathered them, and is restoring that worship.

noise of many... Is the voice of God. It is, many times, spoken of as thunder. This Light led the children of Israel across the wilderness. This Light does away with all darkness.

and the earth... God is the source of all Light. The light we see in the sun and moon are not the source of Light. They are containers we see light in. This Light, spoken of here, is so bright, it would cause anyone not to see the source.

John 8:12 “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

This presence of light and glory of God entered into the temple that Solomon built. This is a promise of God, His presence will be with them.

Mat. 24:27 “For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.”

Ezekiel saw the glory of… God returning from the east to dwell once again in His nation. The glory of the Lord (cf. see Eze. 1:28) entered the temple through the gate facing east.

Romans Chapter 15 Vs. 33

 

Paul's Plan to Visit Rome

Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen. Rom 15:33

God of peace... In the book of Romans, what God is:

1. A witness (Rom. 1:9)

2. Uncorruptible (Rom. 1:23)

3. Impartial (Rom. 2:11)

4. Judge (Rom. 2:16; 3:6)

5. God of all people (Rom. 3:29)

6. God of patience and consolation (Rom. 15:5)

7. God of hope (Rom. 15:13)

8. God of peace (Rom. 15:33; 16:20)

9. Only wise One (Rom. 16:27)

Who is this God of peace? His name is Jesus Christ our Lord. He is the King of Peace. If He be with you, you have eternal life within you. This Scripture in Matthew in Jesus’ own Words promises all believers His presence.

Mat. 28:20 “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Just as God is our hope; He is also the source of true peace.

Paul closed this section with a brief benediction: The God of peace (cf. Rom. 16:20; also cf. “the God of hope,” Rom. 15:13) be with you all. Amen. This is the third benediction in this chapter (cf. Rom. 15:5, 15:13).

Ezekiel Chapter 43 Vs. 1

 

The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple

Afterward he brought me to the gate, even the gate that looketh toward the east: Eze 43:1

to the gate,... The prophet was now taken to the east gate by which the glory of God was to return to the temple, having left Solomon’s temple at the time of the captivity (Eze. 43:1-5 with Eze. 10:4). After God enters through this gate it will be closed to the public except for sabbath days and the day of the new moon, and be used only by the prince (Eze. 44:1-3).


This vision continues at the eastern gate. He had just finished viewing the measurements in the temple, and now He brings Ezekiel to the east gate to witness the entering in of the glory of God.

The return of the Lord’s glory

In a dramatic reversal of the departure of the Lord’s glory (chaps. 10-11) Ezekiel saw the glory of… God returning from the east to dwell once again in His nation.

Romans Chapter 15 Vs. 32

 

Paul's Plan to Visit Rome

That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. Rom 15:32

That I may... Paul was seeking a place where his message from God could be received in peace.

and may with... Paul, like many ministers in our day, is having a hard time finding that place of refreshing. The true desire of every minister who has ever brought the word of God in truth is that their people they ministered to would remain strong in the faith.

1Thes. 3:7-8 “Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:” “For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.”

Paul eventually found the joy and rest he was looking for.

If these objectives were accomplished, according to Paul, he could then by God’s will go to them with joy and… be refreshed with them. The word rendered “refreshed” suggests that Paul would be able to rest or relax with them in the knowledge of a job well done.

Ezekiel Chapter 42 Vs. 20

 The Temple's Chambers

He measured it by the four sides: it had a wall round about, five hundred reeds long, and five hundred broad, to make a separation between the sanctuary and the profane place. Eze 42:20

to make a... If the measurement is 500 reeds instead of 500 cubits as it seems to be here, then the reference is to a place separate from the 500-cubit square and wall of Ezekiel 40-41. The purpose of such a large square of 5,250 feet (besides the one of 875 feet) would be to have a profane place which could be used by the people coming to the sanctuary itself—the 500-cubit enclosure. It is called "profane," meaning for common uses of man instead of purely sacred or divine uses. If this is the case, then there were 4 main squares in the whole picture here:

1. The 500-reed (5,250 feet) square and the wall around it (Eze. 42:14-20).

2. The 500-cubit (875 feet) square, or the sanctuary area and its wall (Eze. 40:19, 40:23, 40:27).

3. The 300-cubit square and its wall (Eze. 40:27).

4. The 100-cubit square and its wall—the place containing the altar in the very center of all the 4 squares (Eze. 40:47).

On the west side of 2 of these squares were built the temple (see, Eze. 41:10) and the other building for general use.

This is an area set aside, that was to be used for God’s purposes. There was no profane thing to come within this wall of separation. A mile square is a section of land. 640 acres is a section. You can get an idea how large this is from that.

The angel led Ezekiel outside to record the external dimensions of the temple. The complex was a square measuring 875 feet (500 cubits) on each side. The total area occupied by this temple area was 765,625 square feet — enough square feet for more than 13 football fields!

Romans Chapter 15 Vs. 31

 

Paul's Plan to Visit Rome

That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints; Rom 15:31

That I may... Paul seems to anticipate the trouble he was to have in Judea (Acts 21:27-26:32).

It seems that Paul knew there would be opposition in Jerusalem. Paul knew that there were those who desired to see him destroyed, but he went anyway. This is the desire of every preacher, then and now.

“Lord, deliver me from those who will not accept my message that you have sent me with, and Lord help those chosen ones you have sent me to believe”.

2Thes. 3:2 “And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all [men] have not faith.”

that do not... Many Jews in Judea rejected the gospel and were prepared to attack Paul when he returned. Aware of the trouble that awaited him, he wanted the Roman Christians to pray for his deliverance only so he could complete the ministry the Lord had given him.

Their prayers were answered in that he met with success in Jerusalem and was delivered from death, but not imprisonment.

that my service... Paul wanted the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem to receive the financial gift from the Gentiles with loving gratitude, recognizing it as a gesture of brotherly love and kindness.

Paul’s specific request was that he would be rescued from the unbelievers (lit., “the disobedient”) in Judea and that his service (diakonia) in Jerusalem would be acceptable to the saints. Paul was aware of the problems that lay before him in Jerusalem (Acts 20:23), and he was deeply concerned that the offering from the Gentile Christians be delivered and distributed properly.

Ezekiel Chapter 42 Vs. 19

 The Temple's Chambers

He turned about to the west side, and measured five hundred reeds with the measuring reed. Eze 42:19

five hundred reeds... Again the Septuagint reads: "five hundred cubits with the measuring reed" instead of "five hundred reeds." The Moffatt, Berkeley, and a few other versions and most commentators agree with this rendering; but here and in versions of Fenton, Young, and Rotherham it says "reeds" or "rods." Five hundred reeds would be 5,250 feet, nearly a mile square. If reeds instead of cubits is the true measurement in this passage, then we can make a new figure of a larger plot of ground around the 500 cubits mentioned in the measurements of these chapters. The wall around it might enclose landscaping, gardens, flowers and shrubs—nothing is said about what occupies such a space. The only reference is to a difference between a profane place and the sanctuary which is definitely the 500-cubit square of these many measurements (Eze. 42:20).

the measuring reed... Again, a measure of 10 feet 6 inches, or 6 long cubits.

Again, after the angel measured everything within the temple complex, he led Ezekiel outside to record the external dimensions of the temple.

1 Peter Chapter 2 Part Two

 

Submission to Authority

"Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;" 1Peter 2:13



Submit yourselves to... Be subject, as in Rom. 13:1-7. Christians commanded to obey human laws and civil rulers as long as they do not transgress the laws of God. Submit is a military term meaning “to arrange in military fashion under the commander,” “to put oneself in an attitude of submission.” As citizens in the world and under civil law and authority, God’s people are to live in a humble, submissive way in the midst of any hostile, godless, slandering society (21-21; Jer. 29:4-14; Mat. 22:21; Rom. 13:1; 1Tim. 2:1; Heb. 10:32-34).

Ordinance of man... Greek: ktisis, always translated "creature" or "creation" except here and Heb. 9:11. See, Rom. 8:19. It means not only to be subject to every human ordinance, but also to every human creature who has any authority in government. The Jews thought it was unlawful to obey any ruler who wasn’t Jewish. The ordinance of man here, is speaking of laws passed by the local, regional, or national government. "Submit yourselves", in this instance, means to keep the laws of the land. We have discussed before, the only time it is correct not to keep the law of the land, is when it is in opposition to the higher laws of God.

the Lord’s sake... Though the Christian’s true citizenship is in heaven, (Phil. 3:20) he still must live as an obedient citizen in this world so that God will be honored and glorified. Rebellious conduct by a Christian brings dishonor on Christ.

We keep the laws of the land because God told us to. It is, also, so God will not be ridiculed for the actions of His people. God is the one who makes someone ruler or king. When we go against those in authority, we are actually questioning the judgment of God.


"Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well." 1Peter 2:14


Or unto governors... There is no law against doing good. God orders all things in heaven and in earth. In that sense, God put the governor in office. These ruling authorities have within their power to punish those who do evil. The only thing that could come from doing well is praise.

sent by him... Christians are to live in obedience to every institution of civil and social order on earth. This includes obedience to the national government (verse 13, “king”), the state government, the police, and judges. Only when the government tries to force a Christian to do what is against the law of God explicitly stated in Scripture, should he refuse to submit (Acts 4:18-20; 5:28-29; Tit. 1:6; 3:1-2).

for the punishment... This is the purpose of human government and civil rulers, and it is only right that all good people cooperate to put lawlessness down.


"For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:" 1Peter 2:15


so is the... When Christians obey the Eight Commands for Pilgrims, they not only do the will of God, "but put to silence" the enemies of Christianity.

with well doing... Christians are instructed of God to not take vengeance on their enemies. In fact, they are to do good to those who persecute them. We see in the following Scripture, in Jesus' own words, just what we are to do.

Mat. 5:44 "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"

The argument will stop, if the Christian refuses to speak evil or take vengeance.

Rom. 12:20 "Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head."

silence Greek: phimoo. Translated "put to silence" (1Pet. 2:15; Mat. 22:34); "be speechless" (Mat. 22:12); "hold one’s peace" (Mark 1:25; Luke 4:35); "be still" (Mark 4:39); and "to muzzle" (1Cor. 9:9; 1Tim. 5:18). Here is the purpose for our submission to authority in order that we should avoid condemnation and win commendation that shuts the mouth of those obstinately set against the faith that are looking for reasons to criticize believers.

the ignorance of... Greek: agnosia. Translated "ignorance" (1Pet. 2:15) and "not knowledge" (1Cor. 15:34). This rightly pictures foolish men who do not seem to have intelligence enough to accept Christianity (cp. Psm. 14:1).

foolish men... Greek: aphron (see, 2Cor. 11:16). Foolish men have no way to continue, when you refuse to answer back.


"As free, and not using [your] liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God." 1Peter 2:16


As free, and... Jews considered themselves servants to no one but God. They used this doctrine for a cloak of maliciousness to justify their many rebellions against Rome and other nations. Peter warned them to be subject to civil rulers in all lands proving they were true servants of God.

Believers should enjoy their freedom in Christ, but ought not to put on a veil or mask of freedom to cover what really is wickedness. Christian freedom is never to be an excuse for self-indulgence or license. (1Cor. 7:22; 8:9-13; 2 Thes. 3:7-9).

cloke of maliciousness... Means badness, depravity, malignity, or trouble. The "liberty", spoken of above, is the fact that the sin of the Christian died on the cross. We should not use that to mistreat others. If we are servants of God, we will do the will of God and not our own will.


"Honour all [men]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king." 1Peter 2:17


Honour all men... Withhold nothing from civil government or its lawful officers that is required of you to pay. Pay taxes, customs, fear, and honor to all people over you in public life. See Rom. 13:7. Highly esteem is the idea and it refers not just too obedient duty but inner respect.

Christians must not be elevated up because of the knowledge that the Holy Spirit of God has given them. Honor all men, just means that because someone is not a Christian, you should not be disrespectful to him.

Love the brotherhood... This means all true Christians in the one family of God (Eph. 3:6, 3:14-15). Notice the difference in the brotherhood. Brothers in Christ are all part of the family of God, the church. They are to love each other as members of a family. The message changes even more speaking of God. We are not only to love God as the Father, but to have reverent fear of Him, as well.

Fear God... Fear God who gave these commands lest He punish you for disobedience.

Honour the king... Honor the emperor or the highest civil ruler, for human government is of God (1Pet. 2:13-17; Rom. 13:1-7). Honor is to be shown for the office of the king. All who are in office are not to our liking, but we are commanded of God to honor the office.


"Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward." 1Peter 2:18


be subject to... One’s Christianity does not give the right to rebel against one’s superior in the social structure, no matter how unfair or harsh he may be.

Three commands to servants:

1. Be subject to masters with fear, not to the good ones only (1Pet. 2:18).

2. Suffer wrongs patiently (1Pet. 2:19-20).

3. Follow Christ’s example in suffering for righteousness (1Pet. 2:21).

Servants in the verse above, actually means household servants and is not speaking of slaves that the master owns. The master, in this case, would be the employer. It seems from this, even if the boss is not a good boss, you still must do what he asks, without grumbling, if you continue to work for him.

Your option would be to get another job, if you could not live with the requirements. There would never be a time when it would be right to be disloyal to the boss. Every job we do, even a lowly one, must be done the best we can as unto the Lord, if we are Christians.

to the froward... Greek: skolios. Translated froward (the contrary, 1Pet. 2:18); untoward (i.e., stubborn, Acts 2:40); and crooked (Luke 3:5; Phlp. 2:15). Your time belongs to your master. If he wastes your time, let him answer for it.


Verses 19-20 “Acceptable with God”: Favor with God is found when an employee, treated unjustly, accepts his poor treatment with faith in God’s sovereign care, rather that responding in anger, hostility, discontent, pride, or rebellion (Mat. 5:11).


"For this [is] thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully."1Peter 2:19


if a man... To endure hardship of any kind, in the name of the Lord, is to be praised.

Rom. 8:17 "And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with [him], that we may be also glorified together."

Peter set forth a principle here that may be applied to any situation where unjust suffering occurs. The commendable (lit., “for this is grace”) motivation for patiently bearing up under… unjust suffering is a believer’s conscious awareness of God’s presence.


"For what glory [is it], if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer [for it], ye take it patiently, this [is] acceptable with God." 1Peter 2:20


For what glory... Question 1. Next, 1Pet. 3:13.

ye be buffeted... Here, means to rap with the fist. Whatever the punishment was, if it is for something the servant has done wrong, he should not be glorified for facing the punishment. He deserved whatever it was for his own bad behavior. On the other hand, it is glory to the person receiving the punishment and to God, if the punishment is not for a misdeed, but for the name of the Lord.

when ye do... Jesus suffered the pain and the humiliation of the cross. He was not guilty of any sin, but took the punishment for our sin. He said it brought glory to the Father and to Himself. We know that many of the early apostles suffered greatly for the name of the Lord. Both men and women were martyred in the name of the Lord. Their reward in heaven will be great.


"For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:" 1 Peter 2:21


For even hereunto... Christians are called to suffer and endure hardships, thus following Christ (2Tim. 3:12; John 15:18-21).

us an example...

Sevenfold Example of Christ

1. Sufferings (1Pet. 2:21)

2. Sinlessness (1Pet. 2:22)

3. Guilelessness (1Pet. 2:22)

4. Love when being mocked (1Pet. 2:23)

5. Patience in threatening's (1Pet. 2:23)

6. Resignation to God (1Pet. 2:23)

7. Righteousness (1Pet. 2:24)

follow his steps... Greek: ichnos, track; footstep. Only used of:

1. Abraham (Rom. 4:12)

2. Paul and Titus (2Cor. 12:18)

3. Jesus Christ (1Pet. 2:21)

were ye called... The “call,” as always in the New Testament epistles, is the efficacious call to salvation (verse 9; 5:10; Rom. 8:30). Peter’s point is that a person called to salvation will, sometimes at least, have to endure unfair treatment.

leaving us an... The word “example” literally means “writing under.” It was writing put under a piece of paper on which to trace letters, thus a pattern. Christ is the pattern for Christians to follow in suffering with perfect patience. His death was efficacious, primarily, as an atonement for sin (2Cor. 5:21); but it was also exemplary, as a model of endurance in unjust suffering.

that ye should... Commendable behavior on the part of the believer in the midst of such trails results in the strengthening and perfecting of the Christian on earth (5:10; Jas. 1:2-4), and his increased eternal capacity to glorify God (Mat. 20:21-23; 2Cor. 4:17-18; 2Tim. 2:12).

The following is what Jesus said about this very thing.

Luke 9:23-24 "And he said to [them] all, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it."

Not many of us can follow in the steps of Jesus. The road is too difficult.

2Tim. 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."


"Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:" 1Peter 2:22


Who did no...

The Sinless One

Christ was the only sinless human being that ever lived. Mary was a sinner, for she rejoiced in God, her Savior (Luke 1:47). There is no hint in Scripture that she had an immaculate conception. If she did have, then her parents had to be sinless, and their parents, etc. back to Adam. On the contrary, all men are born in sin aside from Christ, for He is the only one without a human father (Psm. 51:5; Rom. 5:12-21).

neither was guile... The 5th and last Old Testament prophecy in 1 Peter (1Pet. 2:22; Isa. 53:9). This was a quote from Isaiah 53:9. He was the perfect example of patience endurance in unjust suffering because He was sinless, as the prophet said He would be (1:19).

The perfect Lamb of God {Jesus Christ} was totally free from sin. Not only did he not sin by commission, but He did not sin by speaking, as well. He took our sin upon His body on the cross, and clothed us in His righteousness. His Words were Truth. He spoke no evil Words. He is the Word of God.


"Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed [himself] to him that judgeth righteously:" 1Peter 2:23


he was reviled,... Greek: loidoreo, revile. Here; John 9:28; Acts 23:4; 1Cor. 4:12. He did not rail on His tormentors or threaten them, but committed His cause to the righteous Judge who will always do right (Gen. 18:25). To “revile” is to pile up abusive and vile language against someone. Though verbally abused, Christ never retaliated with vicious words and threats (3:9; Mat. 26:57-65; 27:12-14; Luke 3:7-11).

Four Things Christ Did Not Do:

1. He did not sin (1Pet. 2:22).

2. He did not use guile to cover up (1Pet. 2:22).

3. He did not rail on His enemies (1Pet. 2:23).

4. He did not threaten His enemies (1Pet. 2:23).

Four Things Christ Did:

1. He suffered as our example (1Pet. 2:21).

2. He committed His cause to God (1Pet. 2:23).

3. He bore our sins in His own body (1Pet. 2:24).

4. He submitted to stripes to heal men (1Pet. 2:24; Isa. 53:4-6; Mat. 8:16-17).

but committed himself... This means to hand oneself over to someone to keep. Christ was “delivered” to Pilate (John 9:11); Pilate “handed Him over” to the Jews (John 19:16); Christ “handed over” Himself to God, suffering in surprising silence, because of His perfect confidence in the sovereignty and righteousness of His Father (Isa. 53:7).

Jesus did not look forward to the pain and humiliation of the cross, but submitted to the will of the Father. Look with me at the following Scriptures, where He submits to the will of the Father.

Mat. 26:41-42 "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed [is] willing, but the flesh [is] weak." "He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done."

Jesus did not speak in His own defense. He could have destroyed all of them, with one Word from Him, but He didn't. He submitted to the cruelty of the cross to save His people.


"Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed." 1Peter 2:24


his own self... Jesus Himself, not another in His place, died for our sins (1Pet. 2:24; 1Cor. 15:3; Gal. 1:4; Mat. 26:28; Acts 20:28).

bare our sins... He bore the punishment due our sins. In no other sense could He bear them. Christ suffered not simply as the Christian’s pattern (verses 21-23), but far more importantly as the Christians substitute. To bear sins was to be punished for them (Num. 14:33; Eze. 18:20). Christ bore the punishment and the penalty for believers, thus satisfying a holy God.

This great doctrine of the substitutionary atonement is the heart of the gospel. Actual atonement, sufficient for the sins of the whole world, was made for all who would ever believe, namely, the elect. (Lev. 16:17; 23:27-30; John 3:16; 2Cor. 5:19; 1Tim. 2:6; 4:10; Tit. 2:11; Heb. 2:9; 1Jhn. 2:2; 4:9-10).

his own body... In the human body prepared by God for Him to become incarnate in (Heb. 10:5).

on the tree... On the cross (Mat. 27:32; Acts 5:30; 10:39; 13:29; Gal. 3:13).

that we, being... This is true by the miracle of being in Christ. We died to sin in the sense that we paid its penalty, death, by being in Christ when He died as our substitute.

Three reasons for Christ’s death:

1. That we might be dead to sins (see, Rom. 6:6-7).

2. That we might live unto righteousness (see, Rom. 3:26).

3. That we might be healed.

should live unto... No scripture ever sanctions living in sin as many teach today. Without holiness no man shall see God (Heb. 12:1-29 :34). Not only have we been declared just, the penalty for our sins paid by His death, but we have risen to walk in new life, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

In return, Jesus gave us His righteousness. We are clothed in the white linen garment, washed in the blood of the Lamb. We are righteous in the sight of the Father, because we have taken on the righteousness of Christ. These stripes were much more than just a whipping. The whip used, literally tore the flesh from His body. His suffering was for our healing.

by whose stripes... Physical healing is part of the redemptive work of Christ. By His stripes we are healed (Isa. 53:5; Mat. 8:17). From Isaiah 53:5 (see below) through the wounds of Christ at the cross, believers are healed spiritually from the deadly disease of sin. Physical healing comes at glorification only, when there is no more physical pain, illness, or death (Rev. 21:4).

Isa. 53:5 "But he [was] wounded for our transgressions, [he was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."

We have been seeing, in the verses above, that we are to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. We are to patiently endure hardships and sufferings that come from following Him. This is where the similarity ends. No Christian, regardless of how good he is, can suffer for the sin of the people. Their blood is not pure, and will not do away with sin.

Jesus had no sin of His own. He was pure in every way. He was the unleavened Bread. He was free from sin, yet He took our sin upon His body on the cross, so that our sin would die. Sin, for the Christians, died on the cross. We are no longer servant to sin. Jesus defeated sin on the cross. We are no longer under the curse of the law.


"For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls." 1Peter 2:25


For ye were... Quoted from Isa. 53:5-6.

as sheep going... People are compared to sheep before salvation (Isa. 53:6; Luke 15:4-6) as well as after it (Mat. 10:16).

are now returned... Means “to turn toward,” and refers to the repentant faith a person has at salvation.

unto the Shepherd... Christ is the Good Shepherd and the Overseer of our souls (see, John 10:6; see, Heb. 13:20). In the Old Testament, the title of “Shepherd” for the Lord was often messianic (Eze. 34:23-24; 37:24; John 10:1-18).

and Bishop of... Greek: episkopos (see, Acts 20:28). Bishop means “Overseer”. Christ is not only the Christian’s standard, verses 21-23, and substitute, verse 24, but He is also the Christian’s Shepherd (5:4; Isa. 53:6; John 10:11).

Beyond that, “Shepherd and Overseer” were the most appropriate descriptions of Christ for Peter to use in order to comfort Christians who were being persecuted and slandered, verse 12. These two terms are also used for human spiritual leaders. “Shepherd” is the word for pastor, and “Overseer” is the word for Bishop (Eph. 4:11, Tit. 1:7), both referring to the same persons who lead the church (Acts 20:28).

The great Shepherd {Jesus Christ} lay down his life for His sheep. He would have done it, if only one had been lost. We remember the parable about the 99 sheep who were still in the fold, and the one lost sheep. The Shepherd left the 99 and went and found the one lost.

Three times Jesus had asked Peter, "Lovest thou me?" Three times, Peter had told Him he did love Him. Three times, He told Peter, "Feed my sheep". Jesus is the chief Shepherd. All other shepherds are subordinate to Him.

He is the great Bishop {overseer} of our soul. He is our Advocate with the Father. Like any good Shepherd, His first concern is for His sheep. He is the guardian of our soul.

Hebrews Chapter 8 Part 1

 

Jesus, High Priest of a Better Covenant

Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; Heb 8:1

of the things... Here the writer arrived at his central message. The fact is that “we have” (current possession), a superior High-Priest, Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of all that was foreshadow in the Old Testament.

is the sum... Greek: kephalaion, main point. Only here and in Acts 22:28.

Seven Facts about Christ

1. Our High priest (Heb. 3:1; 6:20; 7:11-28)

2. Exalted at God’s right hand (Heb. 8:1; 1:3; 12:2; Rom. 8:34; Eph. 1:20)

3. Minister of realities of which the law was a shadow (Heb. 8:2-6; 9:22-28; 10:1-12)

4. An heavenly Priest (Heb. 8:1-5; 9:23-24)

5. Mediator of the new covenant (Heb. 8:6; 9:15; Mat. 26:28)

6. Became the only and true sacrifice (Heb. 8:3; 9:11-28; 10:1-18; 1Pet. 2:24)

7. Source of all blessings:

(1) Mercy (Heb. 8:12)

(2) Remission of sins (Heb. 8:12; 10:1-18)

(3) Good things to come (Heb. 9:11; 10:1)

(4) Eternal redemption (Heb. 9:12-15)

(5) Purged conscience (Heb. 9:14)

(6) Eternal inheritance (Heb. 9:15)

(7) Representation (Heb. 9:24)

(8) Victory over man’s enemies (Heb. 10:13)

(9) Sanctification (Heb. 10:10)

(10) Perfection (Heb. 10:14)

(11) Forgetting of sins (Heb. 10:17-18)

(12) Access to God (Heb. 10:19)

As we said, in the last lesson, The Tabernacle in the wilderness was a model of the one in heaven. The heavenly Tabernacle was not made with human hands. Moses had been warned of God that every detail must be exact as the one God had shown Moses. Our High Priest is Jesus Christ, who carried His precious blood to the throne of God.

We mentioned that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God the Father, because His work is done. His 6 hours on the cross, was His 6 days of work, for all of mankind. He said “It is finished”, and went to heaven to be with the Father. Jesus is our representative before the Father. He is our Advocate, because He pleads our case.

Rev. 3:21 “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.”

This statement, in Jesus’ own words is in red in my Bible. By this, I know this is Jesus speaking.

The Superior Service

In Heb. 7:1-28, the writer had considered the superiority of the new priesthood. It follows that such a priesthood must have a superior priestly ministry. That it does is unfolded in this section of the epistle. In the process, the letter reveals that the New Covenant underlies this newer priestly service.

Introduction to the superior service

The author of Hebrews opened this passage with a clear transitional statement: the point of what we are saying is this. He wished to summarize what he had been teaching and go on to new ideas. By referring to the Lord Jesus as a High Priest who sat down at the right hand… of the Majesty in heaven, he picked up the wording of Heb. 1:3 (cf. Heb. 10:12; 12:2). What he meant by this truth is reasonably clear but will be elaborated further in what follows.

A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. Heb 8:2

A minister of... Greek: leitourgos, public servant or officer (see, Rom. 13:6). Christ is the public servant who carries on the business of the whole human race with God. All have common rights in His work and service. He is the minister of the heavenly things pertaining to man’s redemption and destiny (Heb. 8:2-6; 9:11-15, 9:23-24). This is the same word used of the angels (in 1:7). In (Jer. 33:21), it was used of the priests.

sanctuary, and of... Greek: hagion, holies, referring to the holy of holies of the heavenly temple or tabernacle (Heb. 8:2; 9:3, 9:8; 10:19). Used 10 times in Hebrews (Heb. 8:2; 9:2, 9:3, 9:8, 9:12, 9:24, 9:25; 10:19; 13:11). (9:3), The holiest place where God dwelt (Exo. 15:17; 25:8; 26:23-24; 1 Chr. 22:17).

true tabernacle, which... Greek: skene. Translated "tabernacle" 19 times and "habitation" once (Luke 16:9). The definition is given in the phrase “which the Lord pitched, not man,” as well as (in 9:11, 24; and 8:5). It refers to the heavenly dwelling place of God.

Seven Kinds of Tabernacles:

1. Temporary dwellings (Mat. 17:4; Mark 9:5)

2. Tabernacle of Moloch (Acts 7:43-44)

3. Kingdom of David (Acts 15:16)

4. Heavenly sanctuary (Heb. 8:2; 9:11)

5. Mosaic tabernacle (Heb. 8:5; 9:2, 9:6, 9:8, 9:21; 13:10)

6. Tents of dwelling (Heb. 11:9)

7. The Holy City (Rev. 13:6; 21:2-23)

The heavenly tabernacle is called the temple of God in Isa. 6:1; Rev. 3:12; 7:15; 11:19; 14:15, 14:17; 15:5-8; 16:1, 16:17.

We must not fear problems of this earth, because we have a promise of a better life in heaven with Jesus.

2Cor. 5:1 “For we know that if our earthly house of [this] tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”

In the expression who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle, he touched on ideas already implicit in his foregoing instruction, yet used new terms to describe them. The idea of service (leitourgos, a “minister” in the priestly sense) is in reality the new theme. The “true tabernacle” is the heavenly sphere where that service takes place.

For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. Heb 8:3

priest is ordained... Greek: kathistemi (see, Tit. 1:5).

offer gifts and... Two kinds of offerings:

1. Gifts to God acknowledging His government and providence in the universe

2. Sacrifices to God acknowledging sin and the necessity of atonement

wherefore it is... Since it was necessary for all priests to make offerings, it was required of Christ to make one (Heb. 10:1-12).

The duties of the high priest; as we have said before in these lessons, is to be the link between God and man. He is to represent God to the people, and to represent the people to God. The high priest was the only one permitted to go into the most holy place. He carried blood into the most holy place for the sins of the people and for himself.

God spoke to the heart of the high priest through the Urim and Thummim worn over the heart of the high priest. The high priest was in authority over the other priests. Besides being in charge of matters of religious importance, he was also in charge of civil matters as well. If we look at the high priest of these Israelites as a type of Christ, we will be able to see many similarities.

Our great High Priest (Jesus Christ), represents us before the Father, He carried His own precious blood to atone for our sin, to the Throne of God. God spoke to all believers through His Son Jesus Christ. I could go on and on, but you get the picture.

Tit. 2:14 “Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.”

Here is an initial, preliminary elaboration of the new theme. Since the role of a priest involved gifts (dōra) and sacrifices (thysias; cf. Heb. 5:1; 9:9), it follows that this new High Priest should have something to offer.

For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: Heb 8:4

For if he... The temple service in Jerusalem was still being carried on by the Levites. It was not possible therefore, for Christ to perform the office of a priest, being of the tribe of Judah, to which tribe the priesthood did not belong. The Levites served in this worship of shadows of heavenly things (Heb. 8:4-5).

not be a... Jesus was not qualified to be a Levitical priest because He was not of the tribe of Levi. Because of its use of the present tense, this verse indicated that the Levitical system was still in operation at the time of writing, indicating it was before the destruction of the temple (in A.D. 70).

Jesus would not have been a high priest under the law, here on earth, because He was not of the Levitical tribe. Another good reason that He would not have been a high priest here on the earth, is that the high priest on earth is of the law, Jesus was not of the law, but of grace.

Nevertheless His service cannot be an earthly one since the Levitical ritual of sacrifice continued. (These words imply that the Jewish temple was still standing.)

Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. Heb 8:5

The quote (is from Exodus 25:40).

example and shadow... This does not mean that there are actual buildings in heaven which were copied in the tabernacle, but rather that the heavenly realities were adequately symbolized and represented in the earthly tabernacle model.

The entire Tabernacle was patterned after the real thing in heaven. We see in the next verse that Moses truly was warned for it to be exactly as God had shown Him. I believe this whole thing was so that mankind could understand the heavenlies a little better. Almost everything in the tabernacle was symbolic of Jesus.

Jesus is the Bread, Jesus is the Light, Jesus is the Lamb Sacrifice. Here again we could go on and on, but our point is made. This earthly high priest and the earthly Tabernacle were to show us a little glimpse of heaven and how it works.

Exo. 26:30 “And thou shalt rear up the tabernacle according to the fashion thereof which was showed thee in the mount.”

to the pattern... Greek: tupos (see, Phlp. 3:17). Hebrew: tabniyth, structure; model. Moses had a literal model to go by (Exo. 25:9, Exo. 25:40; cp. Heb. 8:5; Heb. 9:23). David later saw a model of the temple (1Ch. 28:11-19).

But the sanctuary used for that is a mere copy (hypodeigmati; cf. Heb. 9:23-24) and shadow (skia; cf. Heb. 10:1) of the heavenly one in which the new Priest ministers. Its status as a “shadow sanctuary” was secured when Moses erected the tabernacle (prototype of the temple) under strict divine direction (Heb. 8:5).

But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. Heb 8:6

a more excellent... A more excellent ministry because of the better covenant based upon better promises (Heb. 8:6; 7:22; 2Cor. 3:6-18).

ministry, by how... Greek: leitourgia. Translated "ministry" (Heb. 8:6; 9:21); "ministration" (Luke 1:23); and "service" (2Cor. 9:12; Phlp. 2:17, 2:30).

is the mediator... Greek: mesites (see, Gal. 3:20).

a better covenant... Ten better things in Hebrews:

1. Hope (Heb. 7:19)

2. Testament (Heb. 7:22)

3. Covenant (Heb. 8:6)

4. Promises (Heb. 8:6)

5. Sacrifices (Heb. 9:23)

6. Substance (Heb. 10:34)

7. Country (Heb. 11:16)

8. Resurrection (Heb. 11:35)

9. Thing (Heb. 11:40)

10. Things (Heb. 12:24)

The word describes a go-between or an arbitrator, in this case between man and God (1Tim. 2:5; Gal. 3:19-20).

upon better promises... The claim of 33,000 promises in the Bible is wrong. There are not that many verses, much less promises. In the New Testament there are only 750 promises in 250 classifications. See New Testament Promises.

a better covenant… better promises”: (verses 7:19, 22; John 1:17-18). This covenant is identified as the “new covenant” (in verses 8, 13; 9:15).

Jesus did not do away with the law; He fulfilled it. The law had to be fulfilled before the more excellent ministry of grace could be in effect. When Jesus said (It is finished), it brought the end to the law and ushered in grace.

2Cor. 3:6-11 “Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.” “But if the ministration of death, written [and] engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which [glory] was to be done away:” “How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?” “For if the ministration of condemnation [be] glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.” “For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.” “For if that which is done away [was] glorious, much more that which remaineth [is] glorious.”

You see, the law condemned, but Jesus brought hope through grace. Grace is so much better; you would not be able to find anyone who would want to go back to the law. Mediator (in verse 6 above), means a go between.

Verses 7-13: Many important truths can be gleaned from this passage regarding the “new covenant” (quoted from Jer. 31:31-34). First, during Jeremiah’s day it was future and was something new. Second, it will be established “with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah”.

This statement is very precise. It involves the Jewish people at a time when they will again be united. When Jeremiah revealed this prophecy, Israel was scattered throughout the Middle East, and Judah had just recently begun its exile in Babylon.

This new covenant made with the Jewish people would come after they were regathered to Israel (Jer. 30:1-3), and after a time of severe tribulation identified as “the time of Jacob’s trouble” (Jer. 30:7). Third, it is unlike the covenant God made with Israel at Sinai (verse 9). It is different in that the old covenant had been conditional.

When Israel abandoned it, God also abandoned them. The new covenant is a promise. Fourth, this new covenant is based upon an inner, spiritual change. It is not written on stone, but “in their hearts” (Eze.. 36:26-27; 2Cor. 3:6-8). Its followers are those who “know the Lord”.

The relation of the new covenant to the Gentile, church-age believer is viewed in one of several ways First, amillennialists believe that the church replaces Israel and so this covenant is fulfilled by the church. A second view proposes that this covenant (as Jer. 31 suggests), is for the nation of Israel alone. The third view suggests that two new covenants exist: one for Israel and one for the church.

The fourth (and probably the best view), is that there is one new covenant which God will one day fulfill with Israel and in which the church participates soteriologically today. In other words, though the covenant is not fulfilled, Christ’s death has initiated its present benefits for those who will someday share in its ultimate blessings when it is fulfilled with Israel.

This view allows the witness of both the Old and New Testaments to stand. Further, nowhere does Scripture speak of two new covenants, any more than it speaks of two old covenants. Paul was a minister of this new covenant to the churches (2Cor. 3:6). The ordinance of the Lord’s Supper which has been given to the church is based upon the sacrifice of the new covenant, Christ’s death.

Many references to the new covenant within the New Testament clearly relate it to the church (12:23-24; 1Cor. 11:25; 2Cor. 3:6), and others also relate it to Israel (verse 10; 12:23-24; Rom. 11:27). As heirs of Christ’s kingdom, the church partakes of the new covenant’s spiritual blessings today and will in the future share in its fulfillment with Israel.

(The word Mediator is used of Jesus by the author three times — Heb. 8:6; 9:15; 12:24.) The word ministry (leitourgia, cf. “serves,” Heb. 8:2) again strikes the pivotal note, but it is now added that the superiority of the new priestly service is related to a superior covenant, which in turn is founded on better promises. Both the covenant and its promises will now be considered.

For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. Heb 8:7

first covenant had... The law of Moses was faulty and had to be done away so that the perfect covenant might come into force.

for the second... The second or the new covenant was necessary because the first or the old covenant did not provide salvation and eternal life.

The same argument (as in 7:11). The older covenant, incomplete and imperfect, was only intended to be temporary.

The fault was not actually in the law, but in man’s ability to keep the law.

Gal. 3:21 “[Is] the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.”

As I said, it was just too much for man to keep. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Praise God we are saved, not because we are worthy, but because Jesus loves us and paid in full for our sin.

Rom. 3:23 “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”

When we accept Jesus as our Savior and Lord, we do so by simple faith in Him. This alone makes us righteous in the sight of God.

This entire lesson is saying to us that our great High Priest (Jesus Christ), has done all of the work for us. He has paid our debt to the Father in full. He has washed us in His precious blood and made us pure. He has become sin for us that we might become His righteousness.

He even fulfilled the law that we might be saved by the new covenant God made with man, through His son. Our Creator became our Savior.

The superior covenant

That there is a promise of a New Covenant the writer will shortly prove by quoting Jer. 31:31-34. By doing so, he argued that such a promise demonstrates the inadequacy of the old one.