Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 17

 Jesus Begins His Ministry

Matthew 4:17 “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

From that time Jesus began to preach”: This marks the beginning of His public ministry. Note that His message was an exact echo of what John the Baptist preached.

Repent: for the... Repentance is one of the main themes of the Bible, being found 110 times from Gen. 6:6 to Rev. 16:11.

Seven Original Words for "Repent"

1. Hebrew: nacham, to sigh, breathe strongly, to be sorry (Gen. 6:6; Exo. 13:17; Job 42:6; Jon. 3:10)

2. Hebrew: shuwb, to turn back (1Kgs. 8:47; Eze. 14:6)

3. Hebrew: nocham, regret (Hos. 13:14)

4. Hebrew: nichuwm, compassion (Hos. 11:8)

5. Greek: metanoeo, to change the mind for the better morally, to change the attitude toward sin (see, Luke 13:3)

6. Greek: metamellomai, to regret consequences of sin, not the cause (Mat. 27:3; 2Cor. 7:8)

7. Greek: metanoia, a real change of mind and attitude toward sin and its cause, not merely the consequences of it (Mat. 3:8, 3:11; 9:13; Luke 24:47)

kingdom of heaven... Literally, kingdom from the heavens. It is headed by Jesus Christ for the purpose of re-establishing the kingdom of God over this rebellious part of God’s realm. Only found in Matthew because it is the gospel of Jehovah’s King. It is a dispensational term and refers to Messiah’s kingdom on earth. Offered by both John and Jesus (Mat. 3:2; 4:17; 10:7). Because it was rejected, it was postponed until Christ comes to set up the kingdom (Mat. 11:12, 11:20-24; 27:22-25; Luke 19:11-27; Acts 1:6-7; 3:19-26). It is now the realm of profession (Mat. 13:11-17, 13:30, 13:38-43, 13:47-50). The parables of the kingdom apply to this age. At the end Christ will come and set up a literal earthly kingdom forever (Mat. 25:31-46; Rev. 11:15; 19:11-20:10; Zec. 14:1-21; Isa. 9:6-7; Dan. 2:44-45; 7:13-27; Luke 1:32-33). During the first 1,000 years of His eternal reign He will put down all rebellion and rid the earth of all rebels. Then God will become "all in all" as before rebellion (Rev. 20:1-10; 21:1-22:5; 1Cor. 15:24-28; Eph. 1:10). Anything said of the kingdom of heaven can also be said of the kingdom of God, because the former is only the earthly dispensational aspect of the latter. There are many things said of the kingdom of God, however, which cannot be said of the kingdom of heaven (see, Mat. 19:24).

The opening word of this first sermon sets the tone for Jesus’ entire earthly ministry (Luke 5:32). Repentance was a constant motif in all His public preaching. And in His closing charge to the apostles, He commanded them to preach repentance as well (Luke 24:47).

The message of John the Baptist is now clearly proclaimed by Jesus Christ. However, Jesus, as the Messiah, is not calling on His listeners to prepare for the coming of the kingdom but rather announces that the kingdom is here. The kingdom blessings promised in Isa. 35:5-6 to be fulfilled in a future kingdom, here become the credentials of the King at His first coming.

When John was imprisoned, Jesus began to preach. His words had a familiar ring: Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near (cf. Mat. 3:2). The twofold message of John was now proclaimed by the Messiah. The work of God was rapidly moving toward the establishing of the glorious kingdom of God on earth. If one wanted to be a part of the kingdom, he must repent. Repentance was mandatory if fellowship with God was to be enjoyed.

Book of Hosea Introduction

 

Book of Hosea-Intro.

Hosea’s prophecy gave Israel a tangible example of its spiritual idolatry, yet portrayed God’s love for Israel in spite of her spiritual infidelity. It constituted a national call to repentance.

Title: The title is derived from the main character and author of the book. The meaning of his name, “salvation,” is the same as that of Joshua (compare Num. 13:8, 16), and Jesus (Matt. 1:21). Hosea is the first of the 12 Minor Prophets. “Minor” refers to the brevity of the prophecies as compared to the length of the works of Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel.

Author – Date: This prophecy provides the sole source of information concerning the author, “Hosea the son of Beeri” (1:1). Nothing is known of Beeri, “Expounder,” although a different man by the same name is mentioned (in Genesis 26:34). In the course of the prophecy he was commanded to marry Gomer who bore two sons and a daughter (1:3b-11). Many believe her lover sired one or more children. Throughout the prophecy the prophet’s personal history was made to be symbolic of the relationship between the Lord and Israel. Because of the tragic details of his personal life, Hosea has been known as the broken hearted prophet. His sorrow provides a good illustration of the broken hearted Lord in His relationship with sinful mankind.

Hosea was probably a native of the northern kingdom of Israel, since he shows familiarity with the history, circumstances and topography of the north (4:15; 5:1, 13; 6:8-9; 10:5, 12:11-12; 14:6). This would make him and Jonah the only writing prophets from the northern kingdom. Although he addressed both Israel (the northern kingdom), and Judah (the southern kingdom), he identified the king of Israel as “our king” (7:5).

Hosea had a lengthy period of ministry, prophesying (ca. 755-710 B.C.), during the reigns of Uzziah (790-739 B.C.), Jotham (750-731 B.C.); Ahaz (735-715 B.C.), and Hezekiah (715-686 B.C.), in Judah, and Jeroboam II (793-753 B.C.), in Israel (1:1). His long career spanned the last 6 kings of Israel from Zechariah (753-752 B.C.) to Hoshea (732-722 B.C.). The overthrow of Zechariah (the last of the dynasty of Jehu in 752 B.C.), is depicted as yet future (1:4). Thus, he followed Amos’ preaching in the north, and was a contemporary of Isaiah and Micah as well, both of whom prophesied in Judah. (2 Kings Chapters 14-20 and 2 Chronicles Chapters 26-32), record the historical period of Hosea’s ministry.

Historical Setting: The prophecy is characterized by intense emotion as the prophet’s personal tragedy (Chapters 1-3), is transferred and applied to the nation (Chapters 4-14).

Hosea was to the northern kingdom what Jeremiah was to the southern kingdom, a weeping prophet. Hosea looked forward to the Assyrian captivity of the northern kingdom, just as Jeremiah looked forward to the Babylonian captivity of the southern kingdom. Hosea’s prophecy is closely related to that of Amos. Amos was very severe in his prophecy and his ministry was somewhat like a James or John the Baptist of the Old Testament. Both Amos and Hosea prophesied to the northern kingdom, although Amos was a native of the southern kingdom and Hosea of the northern kingdom. Hosea was the younger contemporary of Amos, and because their ministries overlap, there is much similarity in the sins they condemn. In Amos, the prophetic discourses are very pronounced, while in Hosea, because of the intense personal involvement of the prophet, they are not very distinctly defined from one another, a fact that makes the book difficult to outline.

Hosea dates his prophecy” in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel” (1:1). Hosea’s ministry extended from about (770 to 725 B.C.). Thus, his active ministry ceased a few years before Assyria carried the northern kingdom into captivity (in 722 B.C.). Hosea was a citizen of the northern kingdom and his personal experience was designed by God to be an example to his nation.

Circumstances were not much better in the southern kingdom. Usurping the priestly function, Uzziah had been struck with leprosy (2 Chron. 26:16-21); Jotham condoned idolatrous practices, opening the way for Ahaz to encourage Baal worship (2 Chron. 27:1 – 28:4). Hezekiah’s revival served only to slow Judah’s acceleration toward a fate similar to that of her northern sister. Weak kings on both sides of the border repeatedly sought out alliances with their heathen neighbors (7:11; compare 2 Kings 15:19; 16:7), rather than seeking the Lord’s help.

Background – Setting: Hosea began his ministry to Israel (also called Ephraim, after its largest tribe), during the final days of Jeroboam II. Under whose guidance Israel was enjoying both political peace and material prosperity as well as moral corruption and spiritual bankruptcy. Upon Jeroboam II’s death (753 B.C.) however, anarchy prevailed and Israel declined rapidly. Until her overthrow by Assyria 30 years later, four of Israel’s six kings were assassinated by their successors. Prophesying during the days surrounding the fall of Samaria, Hosea focuses on Israel’s moral waywardness (compare the book of Amos), and her breach of the covenantal relationship with the Lord, announcing that judgment was imminent.

Historical – Theological Settings: The theme of Hosea is God’s loyal love for His covenant people, Israel, in spite of their idolatry. Thus, Hosea has been called John (the apostle of love) of the Old Testament. The Lord’s true love from His people is unending and will tolerate no rival. Hosea’s message contains much condemnation, both national and individual, but at the same time, he poignantly portrays the love of God toward His people with passionate emotion. Hosea was instructed by God to marry a certain woman and experience with her a domestic life which was a dramatization of the sin and unfaithfulness of Israel. The marital life of Hosea and his wife, Gomer, provide the rich metaphor which clarifies the themes of the book; sin, judgment and forgiving love.

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 16

 Jesus Begins His Ministry

Matthew 4:16 “The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.”

saw great light... Greek: phos, underived and absolute light—the opposite of all darkness. Therefore, used especially of God (1Tim. 6:16; 1Jhn. 1:5) and of Christ (John 1:4-10).

Later on, we will hear Jesus say that He came not for those who need not a physician, but for the lost. It is very interesting, to me, that God would have Jesus come from Nazareth where it would be spoken (that “no good thing could come out of Nazareth”.)

The sea, mentioned in Vs. 15 here, was the Sea of Galilee, a large rough sea where much fishing was going on. This sea had several towns scattered along the banks. Capernaum was where Peter’s home was. Later on, because of so widespread unbelief here, this city would be totally destroyed. Today it is a tourist sight. Walls are thrown down and rubble is everywhere.

Many of the activities of Jesus took place near this sea. The demonic man was freed of the legion of demons near here, the feeding of the multitude took place here, the draft of the fishes was here; I could go on and on, but you get the idea.

Even all the fantastic miracles that Jesus did here, was not enough to convince these people of who He was. A prophet is not accepted in his or her own land. Many of the Gentiles believed, but their Jewish friends already had the law, and felt they were not in need of a Savior.

One of Messiah’s works was to bring light into darkness, for He would be a light to both Jews and Gentiles (cf. John 1:9; 12:46).

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 21

The Glorious Future of Judah

 

For I will cleanse their blood that I have not cleansed: for the LORD dwelleth in Zion. Joel 3:21

For I will... Which some understand, as the Targum, of the Lord's, inflicting further punishments on the enemies of his people, for shedding their innocent blood.

And that he will not expiate their sins, nor hold them guiltless, or suffer them to go unpunished. But rather this is to be interpreted in a way of grace and mercy, as a benefit bestowed on Judah and Jerusalem, who are the immediate antecedents to the relative here.

And in the words a reason is given why they should dwell safely and peaceably for ever, because the Lord will justify them from their sins; forgive their iniquities; cleanse them from all their pollution, signified by blood. Of which grace they will have had no application made to them till this time.

that I have...But now all their guilt and faith will be removed; and particularly God will forgive, and declare to be forgiven their sin of crucifying Christ. Whose blood they had imprecated upon themselves and their children, and which has remained on them.

But now will be removed, with all the sad effects of it. Though this may also refer to the conversion of the Gentiles, and the pardon of their sins. And the sanctification of their persons, in such places and parts of the world, where such blessings of grace have not been bestowed in times past for many ages, if ever.

the Lord dwelleth... The prophecy ends like that of Ezekiel, with the fact of God living visibly on earth with men (cp. Eze. 48:30-35). And therefore, will diffuse his grace, and spread the blessings of it all around. Or "even the Lord that dwelleth in Zion"; He will do what is before promised; being the Lord, He can do it. And dwelling in Zion with all His children, it may be believed He will do it; and this will be forever, when His Shekinah shall return thither in the days of the Messiah.

The world had shed the blood of God's people, and God will punish them for it. It will be enough when they are destroyed, and Judah established forever. The LORD dwelleth in with His children.

This verse has posed problems for interpreters. The NIV suggests that the first part of the verse is a declaration that Judah will be forgiven (I will pardon). Against this is the fact that the sin of blood-guilt on the part of Judah is not mentioned elsewhere in the Book of Joel. A better reading is that of the NASB (following the LXX), which relates the passage to the judgment on the nations (cf. Joel 3:19) by portraying the Lord as the Avenger of Judah’s blood (“I will avenge their blood”). Another option is to translate, “And shall I leave their bloodshed [the Judean blood shed by the nations] go unpunished? I will not” (cf. Allen, The Books of Joel, Obadiah, Jonah and Micah, p. 117; for a similar rhetorical question and response using the same Hebrew verb, niqqâh; cf. Jer. 25:29).

The book ends with an affirmation of the Lord’s presence in Zion (cf. Joel 3:17). It is this fact, above all else, which will assure the nation’s glorious future, portrayed in Joel 3:17-21.

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 15

 Jesus Begins His Ministry

Matthew 4: 15 “The land of Zebulun, and the land of Naphtali, [by] the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;”

The land of... The 7th Old Testament prophecy fulfilled in Matthew (Mat. 4:14-16; Isa. 9:1-2). Next, Mat. 8:17.

Isaiah pictures the spiritual darkness of the land when the Messiah comes as less than when God first let the land be judged by Syria under Benhadad in the reign of Baasha (1Kgs. 15:20), and the more grievous invasion by Hazael in Israel (2Kgs. 10:32-33). When the Messiah comes the people who walk in darkness shall see great light (Isa. 9:1-2).

land of Naphtali... Like a doe, would be a free mountain people. Deborah sang of the people of Naphtali risking their lives “on the heights of the field” (Jdg. 5:18). That tribe settled northwest of the Sea of Kinnereth (Galilee).

Borders of Naphtali: from Heleph at a point on the western border northward to Allon, to Zaanannim, to Adami, to Nekeb, to Jabneel, to Lakum, and to Jordan (Jos. 19:33). The southern border turned westward to Aznoth-tabor, to Hukkok, and to Zebulun; the western border was Asher; and the northern border was from Asher to Judah upon the north Jordan

Galilee of the... In Jesus’ time, the region of Galilee had become an important center of Roman occupation. The prophecy cited by Matthew is from (Isa. 9:1-2; 42:6-7).

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 20

 The Glorious Future of Judah

But Judah shall dwell for ever, and Jerusalem from generation to generation. Joel 3:20

But Judah shall... Judah will include all the children of Israel from all the tribes in that day, for all will be there (Eze. 37:1-28; 48:1-29); and Jerusalem will be their eternal city (Eze. 48:30-35). The security and prosperity portrayed in Joel 3:17-18 will never again be interrupted. Judah and Jerusalem will be inhabited forever (cf. Amos 9:15; Zec. 14:11). The converted Jews shall dwell in their own land for ever, to the end of the world and never more be carried captive (Eze. 37:25), shall continue evermore, and never more be disturbed by any enemies. They shall dwell safely and peaceably to the end of time.

This is in reference to Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth, which is yet to be fulfilled.

and Jerusalem from... Shall dwell so in like manner, age after age; that is, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, who shall see and enjoy peace and prosperity, both temporal and spiritual, as Jerusalem signifies.

Zec. 8:8 "And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness."

Rev. 21:3 "And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God [is] with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, [and be] their God."

The security and prosperity portrayed in Joel 3:17-18 will never again be interrupted. Judah and Jerusalem will be inhabited forever (cf. Eze. 37:25; Amos 9:15; Zec. 14:11).

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 14

 Jesus Begins His Ministry

Matthew 4:14 “That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying,”

which was spoken... This name was used even in Isaiah’s time because Galilee lay on the route through which all Gentiles passed in and out of Israel.

This region was the area settled by the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali after the conquest of Joshua’s time. Isaiah had prophesied (Isa. 9:1-2) that light would come to this region, and Matthew saw this movement of Jesus as fulfillment of this prophecy.

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 19

 The Glorious Future of Judah

Egypt shall be a desolation, and Edom shall be a desolate wilderness, for the violence against the children of Judah, because they have shed innocent blood in their land. Joel 3:19

Egypt shall be... In contrast with the God-given abundance of Judah (Joel 3:18), the lands of her enemies (represented by Egypt and Edom) will be infertile (desolate and a desert waste). The reason for this severe judgment is their mistreatment of the people of Judah. Israel’s enemies are guilty of violence and of shedding innocent blood.

for the violence... Either in the land of Judah; as well in their own land, Egypt and Edom. This respects the violence and outrages committed by the antichristian states upon the true professors of the Christian religion.

Because they have... The Waldenses and Albigenses, and others, whose innocent blood, in great quantities, has been spilled by them.

Antichrist is represented as, drunk with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus, and in whom will be found the blood of all the prophets and saints. And for this reason ruin and destruction will come upon him and his followers, and blood will be given them to drink, for they are worthy (Rev. 17:6).

Egypt symbolizes the evil world. Edom was opposed to God from the beginning. This is a curse spoken against the enemies of God and His people.

In contrast with the God-given abundance of Judah (Joel 3:18), the lands of her enemies (represented by Egypt and Edom) will be infertile (desolate and a desert waste). The reason for this severe judgment is their mistreatment of the people of Judah. Israel’s enemies are guilty of violence and of shedding innocent blood.

If the Book of Joel was written in the ninth century b.c., the reference to Egypt in Joel 3:19 may allude to her acts of violence committed during the invasion of the Egyptian Pharaoh Shishak (ca. 926 b.c.; cf. 1Kgs. 14:25-26). But if the Book of Joel was written in the late preexilic or postexilic period, the invasion of Pharaoh Neco II may be in view (609 b.c.; cf. 2Kgs. 23:29-35). Obadiah also referred to Edomite sins against the Lord’s people (cf. Oba. 1:9-14).

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 13

 Jesus Begins His Ministry

Matthew 4:13 “And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zebulon and Naphtali:”

And leaving Nazareth... Some time elapsed between verses 12 and 13. Jesus’ stay in Nazareth ended abruptly when He was violently rejected by the people of Nazareth, who tried to murder Him (see Luke 4:16-30).

dwelt in Capernaum... Capernaum lay on the northwest shore of Galilee. The exact site has been confirmed in modern times through archaeology. Though two sites had been traditionally claimed, only one (Tell Hum) possesses archaeological evidence that dates it as early as the New Testament.

Capernaum is never mentioned in the Old Testament and is found in the New Testament only in the Gospels. Yet it was a central city in Christ’s ministry; most of the time Christ spent in Galilee was in Capernaum.

When Jesus began His public ministry He made it His home base (verse 13; 9:1), partly because of its prominence in Galilee. It housed a tax collector (9:9), a high government official (John 4:46), and a centurion with his soldiers (8:5-9). It became the home of Peter and Andrew, and probably James and John (Mark 1:29; Luke 5:10).

Jesus performed many miracles in Capernaum including healings of the centurion’s servant, the nobleman’s son, Peter’s mother-in-law, the paralytic, and probably the raising of Jairus’s daughter (also Luke 4:23). Later, Jesus condemned the people of Capernaum, for despite His many miracles, they still disbelieved (11:23).

When Jesus learned of John’s imprisonment, He went from Nazareth and settled in Capernaum (Luke 4:16-30 explains why He left Nazareth). This region was the area settled by the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali after the conquest of Joshua’s time.

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 18

The Glorious Future of Judah 

And it shall come to pass in that day, that the mountains shall drop down new wine, and the hills shall flow with milk, and all the rivers of Judah shall flow with waters, and a fountain shall come forth of the house of the LORD, and shall water the valley of Shittim. Joel 3:18

And it shall... At that time (in that day, when Messiah will reign over His people in the Millennium) the land will be a virtual paradise, enabling the Lord’s people to enjoy His agricultural blessings to the fullest.

that the mountains... The grape harvest will be so bountiful that wine will seemingly drip from the mountains. Milk will be just as plentiful. It too was a sign of prosperity; Canaan was described as a land “flowing with milk and honey” (see Exo. 3:8; cf. 13:5; 33:3; Lev. 20:24; also Isa. 55:1).

and all the... The seasonal streams (ravines, or wadis) will no longer run dry. This abundance of wine, milk (implying the existence of extensive herds), and water represents a complete reversal of the effects of the locust plague (cf. Joel 1:5, 1:18, 1:20).

and a fountain... This refers to the source of the great river of. A fountain will flow out of the Lord’s house, the Jerusalem temple. Similar imagery is employed in Eze. 47:1-12 and Zec. 14:8. This fountain (and the river it produces) will be a tangible reminder that the Lord is the Source of the land’s fertility (cf. Eze. 47:8-10, 47:12).

and shall water... The valley of acacias (Shittim) is probably that portion of the Kidron Valley which runs through the arid wilderness to the Dead Sea (cf. Eze. 47:8).

At that time (in that day, when Messiah will reign over His people in the Millennium) the land will be a virtual paradise, enabling the Lord’s people to enjoy His agricultural blessings to the fullest. The grape harvest will be so bountiful that wine will seemingly drip from the mountains. Milk will be just as plentiful. It too was a sign of prosperity; Canaan was described as a land “flowing with milk and honey” (see Exo. 3:8; cf. 13:5; 33:3; Lev. 20:24; also note Isa. 55:1). The seasonal streams (ravines, or wadis) will no longer run dry. This abundance of wine, milk (implying the existence of extensive herds), and water represents a complete reversal of the effects of the locust plague (cf. Joel 1:5, 1:18, 1:20).

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 12

 Jesus Begins His Ministry

Verses 12-16: Matthew designates four clear geographical areas in relation to the ministry of Christ: Galilee (4:12), Perea (“beyond Jordan,” 19:1), Judea (4:25), and Jerusalem (21:1). The author then omits some of the early Judean ministry and begins with Jesus at Capernaum in Galilee where he first met Christ (9:9).

John was cast into prison: The circumstances of the arrest and eventual beheading of John the Baptist are recorded in chapter 14. Apparently a widespread persecution of the followers of John and Jesus took place at this time. Luke 4:16-31 explains that the reason for Jesus leaving Nazareth was an attempt on His life after a synagogue service at Nazareth. From this point on, Capernaum became the headquarters of Jesus’ ministry to the house of Israel. This city was a Roman settlement near the Sea of Galilee and was the center of the Roman government of the northern provinces of Israel.

That it might be fulfilled (verses 14-16) refers to the coming of Christ into Galilee in fulfillment of the prophecy of (Isaiah 9:1-2), “beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light,” Jesus Himself was that great Light that now would shine forth in His earthly ministry to the people of Galilee, who had so long been despised by their southern Judean cousins.

Matthew 4:12 “Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee;”

heard that John... All the things commanded the first disciples are still in force (Mat. 28:20). The theories of the gospel of the kingdom being for the Jews and not for the church; the grace of God being for the Gentiles or the church and not for Jews; the Sermon on the Mount and the program of the gospels being for Jews and not for the church; the Gentile church being dealt with only in Acts and the epistles; and the signs, miracles and gifts of the Spirit being for apostles only—all are as erroneous and unscriptural as they can possibly be, serving as mere excuses to evade present gospel responsibility.

Herodias this infamous woman was both niece and wife to Philip and Herod, being the daughter of Aristobulus, son of Herod the Great. She first married Philip, her uncle, by whom she had Salome. Later she left him to live publicly with her brother-in-law, who had been married before to the daughter of Aretas, king of Arabia Petra. Aretas made war on him and destroyed Herod’s army, which Josephus says was judgment on him for murdering John the Baptist (Antiquities, Book 8, 2:5).

John was imprisoned for his bold rebuke of Herod Antipas (see 14:3-4).

We will see, here, that the end of John’s work (proclaiming the coming of the Christ) would be the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Just as Jesus came not for those who already knew God, He began His ministry in a very spiritually dark place. Without Jesus Christ, there is no hope, nothing to look forward to.

God’s purpose in His beginning in the dark place was to show that His power and might were not drawn from Jewish law. This was a new day. Jew and Gentile alike would have to receive Him not through law, but through grace.

Galilee is the regional name for the northern part of Israel extending from the Esdraelon plain some 50 miles north and from the Sea of Galilee about 30 miles to the west. Its primary feature is the 13-mile-long Sea of Galilee (seven miles wide at its broadest point). In the Old Testament this lake is call Chinnereth (Num. 34:11; Jos. 12:3; 13:27); in the New Testament it is variously identified as Gennesaret (Mark 6:53), Tiberias (John 21:1) and Galilee (John 6:1).

It lies 695 feet below sea level with the Jordan River flowing through it. Some towns of Galilee that were situated on the seashore were Capernaum, Bethsaida, Tiberias, and Magdala. Of these only Tiberias exists today. Other significant Galilean towns include Nazareth and Chorazin. Galilee is important to the New Testament not only as the place of Jesus’ youth, but also as the

primary region of His public ministry (the Sermon on the Mount, the Transfiguration, 25 of His 33 miracles and 19 of His 32 parables).

During New Testament times this region was governed successively by Herod the Great, Herod Antipas and Herod Agrippa. Since Antipas ruled Galilee from 4 B.C. to A. D. 39, virtually all of the events of the Gospels and of the first decade of the church age relate to his time. Tiberias beside the sea was his capital.

Beginning proclamations

By Word

His sermon

Matthew presented an important time factor in his account when he noted Jesus did not officially begin His public ministry until John the Baptist had been put in prison. The reason for John’s imprisonment was not presented here, but it was stated later (Mat. 14:3).

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 17

 

The Glorious Future of Judah

So shall ye know that I am the LORD your God dwelling in Zion, my holy mountain: then shall Jerusalem be holy, and there shall no strangers pass through her any more. Joel 3:17

So shall ye... The 5th and last section of the prophecy of Joel (Joel 3:17-21, unfulfilled; will be fulfilled at the second coming of Christ and the day of the Lord, which lasts throughout the Millennium).

Twelve Predictions—Unfulfilled:

1. You will know that I am the Lord your God dwelling in Zion, My holy mountain (Joel 3:17; Eze. 48:30-35).

2. Then (when the Lord personally and visibly dwells in Zion among men) Jerusalem will be holy (Joel 3:17; Zec. 14:16-21).

3. There shall no strangers pass through her anymore (Joel 3:17).

4. In that day the mountains will drop down new wine (Joel 3:18)

5. The hills will flow with milk.

6. All the rivers of Judah will flow with waters.

7. A fountain will come forth of the house of the Lord, and shall water the valley of Shittim (Joel 3:18; Eze. 47:1-12; Zec. 14:8).

8. Egypt will be a desolation (Joel 3:19).

9. Edom will be a desolate wilderness.

10. Judah will dwell forever, and Jerusalem from generation to generation (Joel 3:20).

11. I will cleanse their blood that I have not cleansed (Joel 3:21).

12. The Lord will dwell in Zion.

I am the... After this awesome display of divine power, Israel will recognize (know) that the Lord truly dwells among them (cf. Joel 2:27).

Israel’s ultimate restoration

After this awesome display of divine power, Israel will recognize (know) that the Lord truly dwells among them (cf. Joel 2:27). Jerusalem, the site of the Lord’s holy sanctuary (My holy hill; cf. comments on Joel 2:1) will be holy in the sense that it will never again be defiled by foreign invaders (cf. Isa. 52:10-11; Nah. 1:15).

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 11

The Temptation of Jesus

 

Matthew 4:11 tells it all. “Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.”

leaveth him, and... Ending the temptations, which were:

1. Use Your miraculous powers to supply ordinary and personal needs at my command.

2. Prove Your Sonship by a special demonstration of God’s protection; be reckless and make a spectacle of Your power.

3. Use my power, influence, worldly organizations and kingdoms and become great among men whom You seek to get power over.

The devil is subject to the command of Jesus, and he had to leave.

The Bible says, In Jas. 4:7 “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you”.

and, behold, angels... Angels (ministering spirits) came and saw to Jesus’ needs.

The angels, encamped around Christians, will help them, also.

Angels came and ministered unto him. Psalm 91:11-12. The verse Satan tried to twist, was thus fulfilled in God’s way, and in God’s perfect timing.

The One who had identified Himself with sinners by baptism and who would provide righteousness proved He is righteous, and revealed His approval by the Father. Satan then left Jesus. At that moment God sent angels to minister to His needs.

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 16

 The Lord Judges the Nations

The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the LORD will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel. Joel 3:16

LORD also shall... God will personally lead His armies of heaven against those of the Antichrist (Joel 2:11; Isa. 63:1-5; Zec. 14:1-5; Mat. 24:29-31; 2Thes. 1:7-10; Jude 1:14-15; Rev. 11:15; 19:11-21).

and utter his... Christ, the Lamb, shall now appear as the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and utter his voice in his providence and judgments on the behalf of his church and people, signified by Zion and Jerusalem.

And therefore, said to roar and utter his voice from thence; he will be heard far and near, and strike terror in the hearts of his enemies (see Jer. 25:30).

and the heavens... will produce cosmic disorder (cf. Joel 2:10-11; Rev. 16:16, 16:18), Great revolutions will be made in the world, both in church and state, among the antichristian powers. And such as will also make them shake and tremble, as well as alter the form and frame of things among them (see Rev. 16:18). Changes in government, civil and ecclesiastic, are sometimes signified by such phrases (Hag. 2:6).

be the hope... The object, author, ground, and foundation of their hope of salvation here and hereafter. In whom they may hope for and expect safety and security in the worst of times; since he will be their "refuge", or their "harbor". He will then demonstrate that He is Israel’s Refuge (cf. Psm. 46:1; 62:8; Isa. 25:4).

As it may be rendered; to whom they (God's people) may have recourse, to shelter and be screened from the rage and wrath of their enemies. And where they will be safe, till the indignation of God be over and past; and while calamities and judgments are upon the unchristian and ungodly world, they (God's people) will have nothing to fear amidst these storms, being in a good harbor.

and the strength... Of all such who are Israelites indeed, the Lord's chosen, redeemed, and called people, both Jews and Gentiles. The author and giver of their spiritual strength.

To exercise grace; to wrestle with God in prayer; to withstand spiritual enemies; to bear afflictions patiently, and to persevere to the end. Or he is their "fortress"; their strong hold and place of defense, where they are safe from every enemy, free from all distresses, enjoy solid peace and comfort, and have plenty of provisions (Isa. 33:16).

When Jesus comes to the earth as King of kings and Lord of lords, He will set His feet on the Mount of Olives, and it will cleave in two.

Zec. 14:4 "And his feet shall stand on that day upon the mount of Olives, which [is] before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, [and there shall be] a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south."

Jesus will enter the eastern gate, and set up His reign in Jerusalem.

Acts 4:12 "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

Jesus will reign as King. He is our Salvation.

The Lord will emerge from His sanctuary in Jerusalem in theophanic splendor (Joel 3:16; cf. Amos 1:2). His thunderous battle cry(cf. will roar… and thunder) will produce cosmic disorder (cf. Joel 2:10-11; Rev. 16:16, 16:18). He will then demonstrate that He is Israel’s Refuge (cf. Psm. 46:1; 62:8; Isa. 25:4) and Stronghold (cf. Psm. 9:9; 18:2; 27:1; 37:39; 43:2; 144:2).

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 10

 The Temptation of Jesus

Matthew 4:10 “Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.”

Get thee hence... Sometimes, it is difficult to recognize the enemy. Jesus had no trouble recognizing him, standing against him, and removing him. Get thee hence Satan. We should take a lesson from this. Anything, or anyone, who compromises with the devil in sin, has sold out to sin. We must not fellowship with those who continually practice sin. As Jesus did not stay in this place with the tempter, neither should we.

for it is... Here Christ was citing and paraphrasing (Deut. 6:13-14). Again, these relate to the Israelites’ wilderness experiences. Christ, like them, was led into the wilderness to be tested (Deut. 8:2), unlike them, He withstood every aspect of the test.

Thou shalt worship... Anything that is not pleasing to God is sin. In the statement made by Jesus, “Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve”; we see we must not serve Satan or sin. We must walk in the footsteps of Jesus. Of course, we are not perfect; we will stumble and fall, but we must not be a servant to sin. The desire of our hearts must be to please God. Quoted from Deut. 6:13.

We can see, from these Scriptures above that Satan increased what he offered each time. He thought that if he offered Jesus the whole world as His kingdom that Jesus would jump at this. Along with the greater offering came an even more blatant sin. Jesus had to fall down and worship Satan to receive the world and all that was in it (Satan’s belief).

What Satan did not realize was that Jesus would take the earth back for mankind. He did not take it back by compromising with the devil. He took it back through the victory of the cross.

His response, once again from Deuteronomy (Deut. 6:13 and Deut. 10:20), was that God alone should be worshiped and served. Jesus resisted this temptation also.

Interestingly Satan’s temptations of Eve in the Garden of Eden correspond to those of Jesus in the desert. Satan appealed to the physical appetite (Gen. 3:1-3; Mat. 4:3), the desire for personal gain (Gen. 3:4-5; Mat. 4:6), and an easy path to power or glory (Gen. 3:5-6; Mat. 4:8-9). And in each case Satan altered God’s Word (Gen. 3:4; Mat. 4:6). Satan’s temptations of people today often fall into the same three categories (cf. 1Jhn. 2:16). The One who had identified Himself with sinners by baptism and who would provide righteousness proved He is righteous, and revealed His approval by the Father.

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 15

The Lord Judges the Nations

 

The sun and the moon shall be darkened, and the stars shall withdraw their shining. Joel 3:15

The sun and... This will be a literal happening at the second coming of Christ (Joel 2:30-32; Mat. 24:29-31).

and the stars... Anti-Christian princes and nobles in the civil state, and the clergy of all ranks in the church state, shall lose their glory.

Mat. 24:29 "Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:"

As in earlier passages (cf. Joel 2:10, 2:31) the darkening of the heavenly bodies (Joel 3:15) serves as an ominous sign of the approaching day of the Lord (Joel 3:14). Both the politic and ecclesiastic state of antichrist shall be ruined and destroyed.

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 9

The Temptation of Jesus

 

Matthew 4:9 “And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.”

will I give... Satan is the “ruler of this world” (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11), and the “god of this world” (2Cor. 4:4). The whole world lies in his power (1Jhn. 5:19). This is illustrated in Dan. 10:13, where demonic power controlled the kingdom of Persia, so that a demon is called the prince of the kingdom of Persia.

fall down and... An expression of complete surrender, submission, and adoration.

If only Jesus would bow down and worship him. Satan was saying, “I can accomplish the will of God for You and You can have the kingdoms of this world right now.” This of course would have meant Jesus would never have gone to the cross. He supposedly could have been the King of kings without the cross. However, this would have thwarted God’s plan for salvation and would have meant Jesus was worshiping an inferior.

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 14

 The Lord Judges the Nations

Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision. Joel 3:14

Multitudes, multitudes in... An innumerable host will be assembled in the valley of decision (also called the Valley of Jehoshaphat, Joel 3:2, 3:12). Here the divine Judge’s verdict will be executed on the nations.

for the day... These multitudes are the heathen armies of many nations that are judged in the valley, and found guilty as charged. God, Himself, destroys them.

valley of decision...This location is the same as the valley of Jehoshaphat where the sentence of judgment will be carried out (3:2, 12).

This is synonymous with the valley of Jehoshaphat (verse 2). The scene is not one where the multitudes are in the midst of making a decision in favor of the Lord and repenting of their sin. Rather, the decision is made by God, a decision to judge the multitudes for their treatment of Judah and Jerusalem!

This judgment will be meted out against them in the Day of the Lord that takes place in the Great Tribulation.

An innumerable host will be assembled in the valley of decision (also called the Valley of Jehoshaphat, Joel 3:2, 3:12). Here the divine Judge’s verdict will be executed on the nations.

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 8

 The Temptation of Jesus

Matthew 4:8 “Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and showeth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;”

all the kingdoms... Satan is the present usurper of man’s dominion—the prince and god of this world’s system (John 8:44; 12:31; 14:30; 2Cor. 4:4; Eph. 2:1-3; 1Jhn. 5:19).

This third temptation takes place on an exceeding high mountain. The mountain is clearly real in the text, though its exact location is unidentified. Despite the grandeur of this temptation, nothing in the passage itself indicates that these temptations were only in the mind of Christ.

Clearly, they are depicted as real experiences that actually occurred in the human life of the Messiah. That Satan, the usurper, would attempt to give the kingdoms of the world to Jesus, the Messiah, the rightful King, is the height of absurdity!

Satan’s final test related to God’s plan for Jesus. It was and is God’s design that Jesus Christ rule the world. Satan showed Jesus the kingdoms of the world with all their splendor. These kingdoms presently are Satan’s, as he is “the god of this Age” (2Cor. 4:4) and “the prince of this world” (John 12:31; cf. Eph. 2:2). He had the power to give all these kingdoms to Jesus at that time.

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 13

 The Lord Judges the Nations

Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe: come, get you down; for the press is full, the fats overflow; for their wickedness is great. Joel 3:13

Put ye in... In Joel 3:13-16 we have a reference to the battle of Armageddon and the destruction of the many armies of the nations of the Antichrist, by the Lord, in fulfillment of Isa. 63:1-5; Eze. 38-39; Zec. 14:1-21; Rev. 19:11-21. These verses (Joel 3:12-13) plainly indicate that the judgment mentioned in this chapter will actually take the form of divine warfare against Israel’s enemies. So the event described here is to be equated with Armageddon (cf. Rev. 14:14-20; 16:16; 19:11-21), rather than the judgment of the nations prophesied in Mat. 25:31-46.

the sickle, for... The sickle in His hand suggests judgment. And this is supported by the messages of the three angels (Rev. 14:15-20). The sickle in His hand suggests judgment. And this is supported by the messages of the three angels (Rev. 14:15-20).

An angel called out to Christ to reap, because the harvest of the earth is ripe. The ripeness is in the sense of withered or overripe (exēranthē). What follows is judgment as the sickle is swung… over the earth.; Rev. 19:15.

for the press... Christ is also described as the One who treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty (cf. Rev. 14:19-20; and cf. Almighty in Rev. 1:8; 4:8; 11:17; 15:3; 16:7, 16:14; 19:6; 21:22). This scene is a dramatic indication of the awfulness of the impending judgment. Mat. 24:30 indicates that those on earth will be witnesses of this impressive scene.

The first command (Swing the sickle, for the harvest is ripe) probably compares judgment to harvesting grain (cf. Isa. 17:5; Rev. 14:15). The second (Come, trample the grapes) compares the annihilation of the enemies to treading grapes in a winepress (cf. Isa. 63:1-6; Rev. 14:18-20). The underlying reason for the nations’ demise is that their wickedness is great.

Gospel of Matthew Chapter 4 Vs. 7

 The Temptation of Jesus

Matthew 4:7 “Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.”

In verse 7, we see the correct way to talk to the devil.

It is written... Christ replied with another verse from Israel’s wilderness experience (Deut. 6:16), recalling the experience at Massah, where the grumbling Israelites put the Lord to the test, angrily demanding that Moses produce water where there was none (Exodus 17:2-7).

Thou shalt not... not tempt the LORD your God. Exo. 17:7; Num. 14:22; Mat. 4:7. Quoted from Deut. 6:16. Jesus could have thrown Himself headlong from the temple to show a sign or wonder of who He was. God calls people who have to have signs and wonders, before they will believe, a wicked and perverse generation.

You see, God is not interested in convincing us through our mental capacity. He wants us to believe from our hearts.

Not every sign and wonder is from God. The devil is a counterfeiter. Mat. 24:24 is printed in red, because it is the words of Jesus Himself.

“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”

You see, we must know the Word so well that we will be able to discern the truth from a lie.

Jesus responded, again from Deuteronomy (Deut. 6:16), that it would not be proper to test… God and expect Him to do something when one is out of His will.

Book of Joel Chapter 3 Vs. 12

 The Lord Judges the Nations

Let the heathen be wakened, and come up to the valley of Jehoshaphat: for there will I sit to judge all the heathen round about. Joel 3:12

Let the Heathen... That is, let the enemies of Christ and his church be aroused from that state of security in which they are, and prepare for their own defense. For in such a state the antichristian powers will be before their destruction (see Rev. 18:7).

and come up... Let them bestir themselves, and exert all the rigor and strength they have. Let them come in high spirits against the people of God; let them invade the holy land, and come even to the valley of Jehoshaphat. And, when come thither, let them, descend into the place appointed for their ruin.

The land of Judea being said to be higher than other countries, going to it is generally expressed by going up to it. Otherwise it is more usual to say that men go down to a valley than come up to it; and mention being made again of this valley, shows that the same thing is referred to here (as in Joel 3:2).

These words are said in answer to the petition (in Joel 3:11); for they are spoken by the Lord, as appears by what follows.

there will I... This not only refers to Armageddon, but to the judgment of the nations (Mat. 25:31-46). There gathered together from all parts. The allusion is to a judge upon the bench, sitting to hear and try causes, and pass a definitive sentence. And here it signifies the execution of that sentence; such a pleading the cause of his people, as to take vengeance and inflict just punishment upon their enemies (see Psm. 9:4).

This is the same battle where 2/3 of Gog in the land of Magog will die in battle. So many die in this battle, that people on the Mediterranean Sea must put clothes pins on their noses to stop the death odor. All Israel will be 7 months burying the dead.

Ezekiel 39:12 "And seven months shall the house of Israel be burying of them, that they may cleanse the land."

This plainly says that the deaths in this great battle are a judgment of God against the heathen people.

The Lord Himself now repeated the summons of the preceding verses, instructing the nations to enter the Valley of Jehoshaphat (cf. Joel 3:2). Employing agricultural imagery, He then commanded His warriors to destroy His enemies.