"Studies of the Spirit - In the Old Testament, Part 2" - John 16:12-15
ZADOK PUBLICATIONS - Dr. C. R. OLIVER
June 1, 2020
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ZADOK PUBLICATIONS MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
June 1, 2020 Studies of the Spirit In the Old Testament, Part 2 You may watch this Newsletter in a video HERE.
Introduction: Introduction: Last month, we reviewed the first twenty passages in the Old Testament that scripted the Holy Spirit's activities under the old covenant. We ended by drawing some conclusions which are listed below.
This month's study will add to that list and also reveal several unique ways the Spirit used the prophets. First, let us see Him as the Spirit of Final Correction. 21. 2 Chronicles 24:18-22 (the Spirit's agency of Final Correction) Last month, we ended with the reign of Jehoshaphat and how God delivered him from the Moabites and the Ammonites (the children of Lot's drunken incest with his daughters). After his deliverance (because he walked after his father Asa's example)-he sinned, by allying himself with Ahaziah (king of Israel in Samaria), Jehoshaphat died and his eldest son, Jehoram, reigned. Jehoram's reign was grossly tainted by taking a daughter of Ahab as wife. He murdered his brothers and earned the rebuke of Elijah, who declared his death by intestinal disease. Next came his youngest son, Ahaziah, who reigned for one year under the influence of his mother (Ahab's daughter, Athaliah). After his death, Athaliah murdered the royal heirs and took illegal power in his stead. However, God protected one child, Joash, who at seven years of age was crowned. Joash repaired the Temple and prospered until the death of the priest, Jehoiada. With Jehoiada's influence gone, Joash listened to the corrupt leaders of Judah. Then, the Spirit of correction entered the framework through various prophets, but the elders refused to listen. Their refusal caused the Spirit to move on Jehoiada's son, Zechariah, with the Spirit's final words.
Notice, Joash started his career in the right direction, but wound up in disgrace. It is amazing how this man moved from being a force for righteousness to the progenitor of unrighteousness. Ezekiel commented in one of his prophecies, Ezekiel 18:24, that such a man would die.
Next, we turn to Nehemiah. 22. Nehemiah 8:16-9:30: In this passage, Ezra's Preaching from the Book of the Law produced a contrite people who confessed their sins and kept the feast of Tabernacles, which caused them to recount how the Lord had helped them throughout their history.
The People Confessed Their Sins
The Priests recounted how God had helped Israel in the Past, by recounting their wilderness trek.
For all the Lord provided, they did not appreciate the Lord's kindness:
(Their forefathers, in light of all the Lord had done for them, refused the instruction of the Spirit! How often is this the case of the modern church? Historically, almost all denominations can recount earlier times when they listened intently to the Spirit, but sadly, they also can recount times when they refused to hear!) How interesting that in slightly over eleven verses, those who confessed their sins and sought to re-establish the feast of Tabernacles were reminded how easy it is to be led astray. Job is next with a most lucid revelation of true life. 23. Job 26:2-27:12, Job 33:4, Job 34:14-15: Turning now to Job, let the reader comprehend how Job listened to his friends for twenty-six chapters before having enough of their rhetoric. Bildad proffered the possibility that Job did not measure up to God's standards and thereby was suffering from what he had sowed. In a few short verses, Job thanks his friends for their wonderful insights and masterful commentary, but he has had enough. Using the Living Translation for clarity, we see Job's disdain.
Job's graciousness eclipses into blatant truth in these verses. Like many of the Bible saints, he returns to the creation and begins his response, citing a greater work of the Spirit than his situation. Then he calls his friend's logic, USELESS. (Six chapters later, he makes a declaration that some in the abortion industry cannot fathom. He attributes the Spirit of God for his own creation. [A child is not just a product of cohabitation, but the gift of God's Spirit bringing life.] The withdrawal of life is a Spirit event as well, according to Job.)
After affirming his righteousness in chapter twenty-six, Job declares he is the product of God and lives under His determined boundaries. (Dogmatism is a necessary quality when the world around you assert their stupidity.) Moving now to the Psalms, it becomes apparent the portions focusing on the Spirit are greater than most have been aware. 24. Psalms 51:7-12; Psalms 104:27-30; Psalms 106:32-33; Psalms 139:7-10; Psalms 143:10: Although the Psalms are not in chronological order, the Psalmist's first mention of the Spirit appears rather late. In his petitions to God, David declares his dependency on the Lord and His Spirit.
The Psalmist later considers how God's creation depends solely upon the Lord and His provision.
Darwinian evolution wouldn't have a chance with David! Environmentalists would falter in their Godless schemes. David believed the cycle of life is subject to God sending His Spirit. Observing the oceans and their creatures, he notes their dependence on the Lord (just like he does).
As many before him, the Psalmist, in this next passage, cites the rebellion of God's people in the wilderness. So awesome was this event that its impact is felt in many portions of Scripture. Here, the writer clearly reveals how their rebellion was not just against Moses, but God's Spirit as well.
Certainly, this is the case where Moses delivers the message from God and the hearers refuse to listen or to take heed to what he says. Their rebellion goes beyond the messenger to the place of the Spirit, who ordered the Word. (Perhaps modern Christianity had best examine their motives and see if rebellion might characterize some of their actions.) Psalms 139 poses a rhetorical question-one to which the obvious answer is "nowhere." God's Spirit is everywhere; no place alludes His presence. This Psalm is as inclusive as Paul's declaration when he said, "What can separate us from the love of God?"
Lastly, in Psalms 143 there is a passage which appears to be like a summary. Here the writer simplifies his relation to God and speaks for all his readers.
Next, we examine references in the Prophet Isaiah, which are varied and many. 25. Isaiah 11:1-3; Isaiah 30:1; Isaiah 32:15-17; Isaiah 34:16-17; Isaiah 40:12-15; Isaiah 42:1-10; Isaiah 44:3-5; Isaiah 48:16-19; Isaiah 59:19-21; Isaiah 61:1-3; Isaiah 63:10; Isaiah 63:11-14: Isaiah 11:1-3: Isaiah had many Scriptures about the coming Savior, but this passage is the first one showing Jesus and the Spirit manifested as resting upon Him. Wisdom, understanding, counsel, might and knowledge are the attributes of His Spirit coming down on Jesus at His baptism. The same is true today for those who are baptized in the Spirit. Jesus revealed the relationship He had with the Father, and through the Spirit, showed how to reverence the Lord. One interesting point is the third verse on how the Spirit allows us to make judgments beyond the natural methods-to see through the Spirit. Kingdom children use discernment, which penetrates the subterfuges of this world and makes determinations based on Spirit insight.
How wonderful is the equipping by the Spirit for our spiritual walk. As believers, we see what others do not see and hear what others are deaf to---"let him that hath ears hear and those that have eyes to see what the Spirit says to the churches." But alas, a heavy penalty comes from not consulting the Spirit. It is clearly a sin to plan outside the will of God. God calls those who take counsel from other sources, persons in "rebellion." (Perhaps this would be a good sermon for church committees.)
In Isaiah 32:15-17, the Prophet painted a dark picture for Israel UNTIL the Spirit arrived. This passage relates to what I believe occurred on the day of Pentecost. Life is dark without the pouring out of the Spirit.
This next passage is a reminder to us of the work of the Spirit in watching over the Word of the Lord and seeing it is carried out to the letter. Although this chapter is addressed to the nations, it considers Petra, the city of the Edomites, as the prime example of God's judgment. To this day, tourists visiting Jordan view it and find it exactly as God proclaimed - a home to only wild beasts. Edom's rose red rock city, during the migration of Israel from the wilderness, hindered their progress, and as sons of Esau, they did whatever they could to cause trouble for God's people. God's judgment came in the form of a powerful earthquake which opened a lower terrain for traverse, thus eliminating the necessity of traveling through Edom. Next, the Spirit is shown to be the guarantor of the covenant as in, "His Spirit will make it all come true." The Living Translation does a good job of clarifying the role of the Spirit in Petra's demise.
Observe with all your attention on verse sixteen. It is Spirit-force connected to the Word of God that penetrates human history. Verse seventeen, to me, is a unique description of a land transaction between God and the wild animals of Petra. Look now at Isaiah 40. The munificence of the Lord permeates this next passage. Isaiah points out the greatness of God in creation and asks probing questions. Who is able to give counsel to Him or His Spirit? The Godhead know all things and They are in all things and have power over all things. Today, persons and organizations who plot their own courses with little regard to the sovereignty of God had best give ear. Whole nations who dictate to its citizenry with strangling force had best listen!
Jesus is all over the following word. He fulfilled every aspect of this prophecy which was given seven hundred years before their happening. If one reads Luke 10, they will find many of the attributes of His ministry found here. The anointing on His life was so powerful that many of the actions of Jesus were done to fulfill Isaiah's prophetic words.
It is the believer's privilege to know things in advance! Turn now to Isaiah 44. This next set of Scriptures comes from the voice of the Lord. After saying, "I will give Jacob to the curse, and Israel to reproaches," His next words are comfort. Chapter 44:1 begins with "Yet" and ushers comfort to Israel and Jerusalem and especially their descendants (Think: Pentecost and beyond).
Strangely, Isaiah 48 begins with a rebuke and judgment of the nation Israel, whom God called "worthless." Then He declares His deliverance of them because He wants the nations to know Israel's idols did not save them. So, He calls His people to attend His words, and He spells out the demise of Babylon (even before the captivity begins and gives the name of the ruler of Persia who will conquer Babylon - before he is born - Cyrus.) This passage opens with a declaration that God has been there all along for them and will be so even now.
Reach now to Isaiah 59. For background on Isaiah 59, one must read Isaiah 58:1, where the Lord speaks to His prophet Isaiah:
The fifty-ninth chapter finds Isaiah still carrying out His charge.
After concisely rebuking His people, the next passage reveals God's protection. This prelude to the promise of mercy from the Lord is almost poetic.
What a marvelous covenant promise! In the midst of a worldwide pandemic, which has affected all nations like a flood of suffering - - there comes a trumpet blast from the Spirit of the Lord and beside Him is the banner emblazoned with Lion of the Tribe of Judah! Hallelujah!
Quickly run to Isaiah 61. This is one of the Bibles' most famous passages. It is the one Jesus used to announce His ministry (Luke 10. Truly, Isaiah stands as the most quoted of Prophets, for God gave him glimpses of His Son. Jesus did not quote all of this passage, for He omitted the "vengeance of our God." (His ministry was not ushering in the day of vengeance.)
Hurry forward to Isaiah 63. In Isaiah 63, Isaiah characterized the Spirit as a person and someone who can be grieved. Because the people of Israel grieved the Holy Spirit, God turned away from them, all the while remembering His past history with them. He turned back again and the Spirit gave Him rest. (There are some questions to be addressed in today's religious marketplace! Have we grieved the Spirit? Has the church done its thing and offered no place for the Spirit?) Isaiah 63:7-15: This passage has three references to the Spirit. It begins with a review of God's merciful dealings with Israel. Note the tenderness expressed in verse nine and following. Note also, their reaction to His goodness. They grieved the Spirit.
Isaiah uses a broad brush to summarize the relationship of Israel with their God. With large sweeps he moves from days of old to the end of days embracing the righteousness of the Lord. Beginning with verse eleven, he poses a question that runs to verse thirteen. It is rhetorical in nature because the answer is obvious: Only God! Praise His Holy Name! Until next month, Dr. Cosby R. Oliver, PhD. |
MISSIONS REPORT:
Darrell and Sandy Blatchley - Family Circus Children's Ministries
Contact Information:Darrell and Sandy Blatchley
Family Circus Children's Ministries
PO Box 80542
8000 Davao City
Philippines
Web: http://www.familycircus.org
Email: darrell.blatchley@hqmail.agmd.org
Facebook: "Darrell Blatchley - Family Circus Children's Ministries Int"
Family Circus Children's Ministry was created by Assembly of God Church missionaries Darrell and Sandy Blatchley in 1993 to create high impact, joyful methods to present the Gospel (#1) to children and (#2) to their families. The purpose of the Family Circus is to bring the life and joy of Jesus, combining both discipleship and evangelism, to reach lost children, while ministering to the needs of the child, both spiritual and physical. Each week five to six thousand people of all ages attend the Family Circus church services held under the 'Big Top', a big circus tent pitched in the center of the densely populated "Muslim Friendship Village" in Davao City, Mindanao City, Philippines. Approximately 4,000 of the 6,000 member congregation are children, half of which are malnourished. More than 1,000 are adults.
The Family Circus, as a church with four walls, was started about seven years ago due to the large number of poor children and their families getting saved on the street under the FC street ministry. There was a lack of motivation in traditional churches to receive these children due to several factors. Since that time, FC church growth has been phenomenal. The first week, 161 (primarily children) attended the service. The second week 550 attended as their families began coming and the third week attendance was 770 attending. It continues to grow, with current attendance at nearly 6,000. The first facility the church met in was McDonald's, which we outgrew in 3 months. Then we rented a little building and held multiple services, stacking the congregation in and growing to a weekly attendance of 3,500 in about 3 to 4 years. We began using the tent in September 2007. The FC church currently "meets" in two locations, the 4,000 seat tent with two services and a satellite service outdoors near the beach under a covered basketball court. FC also has started monthly 'Character Connex' Training Assemblies in the local government elementary schools, teaching 40,000+ kids. The dramatized sermons originated weekly by the FC church are written, self published, and being used in 30 countries, in multiple languages. The Family Circus church is a Filipino national church, and is pastored by a team of 30 nationals, and 60 - 100 national volunteers, with oversight, mentoring, and training being provided by missionaries Darrell and Sandy Blatchley. Other local churches receive training freely upon request, and the lessons are used by many national churches. National churches often hear about what is happening and send their staff to view and learn new methods of ministry for the children which is bringing awareness to the national church of the importance of children. Family Circus methods and lessons have been used to teach, disciple, and evangelize hundreds of thousands. We keep accurate records of those attending in the tent with the goal of raising the children to become warriors and workers for the Lord, both now and in the future. We are currently under lockdown here on the island of Mindanao in S Philippines. We thought it would be lifted this week but the discovery of more cases caused them to delay the lifting until June. It will be good when this passes as we are in the midst of building a gym to replace the Circus tent. After 14 years the weather finally wore it out. We are about 100 yards away from the ocean and we had it up 24/7 for many year. The tent could accommodate large gatherings of kids and their families, and the gym will be larger and also 2 floors. What a wonderful time of harvest ahead. Plus we are expecting a flood of new growth. In the past we would average about 220 newborns a year. I expect many more to come and we need to be prepared. It's harvest time and as shepherds we welcome the littlest lambs. We've been under lockdown about 2 months and we hoped it might be lifted this weekend but instead they extended it a couple weeks. I understand they've not registered any new cases for the past 3 - 4 days. They ran out of test kits. Chuckle… Good reason for not listing new cases I guess. We currently have 4 orphans we are raising at home. Their parents died about 4 - 5 years ago and we became the answer to their mama's prayer. Our son Ken & Liz in Abilene, Texas just had our 5th grandchild (1st child for them). It is our 2nd granddaughter, Little Ella, hit the ground running at almost 12 lbs. That is the biggest sacrifice of being a missionary. Not seeing our kids or in this case grandkids, sometimes for years at a time… But who knows this may be our first granddaughter that may join us one day on the field…? Life has slowed down over here, I think the kids kinda like it. They are getting some extra time with dad too, joining in with on rock polishing, shaping etc. Hopefully in another week they will begin lifting the lockdown. It's been nearly 50 days and counting. We are all feeling well, though getting a bit tired of this process of trying to dodge or slow down a virus. Sandy has been working like a trooper trying to keep the meals interesting and tasty. We've eaten our share of the long-life vitamin enriched meals which we give to malnourished kids by the thousands. All those vitamins don't add to the taste, so it takes creativity to enhance the flavor. (Shopping has not been so easy during lockdown, yet God gives us unique opportunity to minister.) We have distributed about 25,000+ meals during the past couple weeks and once we are freer to travel, we will be distributing thousands more to the local prison and to one about 3 hours away later this week. So many hungry out of work families out there. For the last few days I've been keeping the kids active in my tool room. It gives Sandy some recharging and rest time. A hobby I picked up in the last couple years was a rock tumbling; I had a rock tumbler from a friend and began to polish rocks starting with some I had collected from Israel shortly before that. Also, I enjoy involving and taking the kids with me out looking for rocks in the countryside, by the river, and ocean. And, "Oh Yes! These stones can speak… Using them to speak into the kids' lives about how even a hard ole stone in the Master's hand can become a treasure and many more lessons to boot. Stones just like people that have been walked on and disregarded can be picked up and in the Master's hands can become a treasured keepsake. When my birth father passed away about a year ago I used some of the funds he left me to pick up a nice rock cutter and a rock polishing setup. The kids are enjoying the process, and a few days ago Angel and Denver were out practicing riding a Unicycle after polishing their rocks. I remember learning when I was their age. Seems a rare sight to see someone riding a unicycle. We pray the lockdown will be lifted soon; families need to return to work. We also pray for the Lord's protection as we resume getting out there to help the least of these and resume construction as we know that there will be a harvest of little ones who will need to come and meet the King… Amelia Helps 
 Angel's Project 
 By The Ocean With The Kids 
Child Eating During Lockdown 
 Kids rock Lockdown 
Gym At Sundown 
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