Mark 8:34-38, 9:1-13 The Transfiguration

Mark 8:34-38, 9:1-13  The Transfiguration        September 01, 2018

Take Up Your Cross and Follow Jesus

Mark 8:34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.

*Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

*Luke 9:23 Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

We to, must follow him to cross.  We know that the cross was a way to execute people.  When we carry a cross, we know that we couldn’t save ourselves.  Are we carrying our cross to the Hill, walking with Jesus.

Denying self is not the same as self-denial. We practice self-denial when, for a good purpose, we occasionally give up things or activities. 

But we deny self when we surrender ourselves to Christ and determine to obey His will.”

*1 Corinthians 15:31 I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.

*Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

Mark 8:35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.

*Matthew 16:25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

Mark 8:36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?

*Matthew 16:26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

*Luke 9:25 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?

Mark 8:37 Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?

Just wondering, does it feel funny if you tell a total stranger that you are a follower of Jesus and even use His Name.  

Mark 8:38 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels."

*Matthew 16:27 For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works. 

*Luke 9:26 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels.

*Daniel 7:13-14  "In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence.  (14)  He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.

Mark 9:1 And He said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you that there are some standing here who will not taste death till they see the kingdom of God present with power."    {some disciples standing there}

*Matthew 16:28 Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom."

*Luke 9:27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God."

Sometimes a lesson given by a leader needs a special emphasis. It takes faith to receive and put into practice the various lessons on discipleship, so a week later the Lord provided a dazzling proof that God does, indeed, transform suffering into glory.

A remarkable statement. Yet, a week later the disciples will experience an unforgettable surprise...The unveiling of Jesus’ glory in the presence of 3 disciples.

The Transfiguration, Jesus is transfigured before His disciples, which mountain did this happen on.  See attachment.  After this, they journey from the mount of Transfiguration and passed through Galilee to Capernaum.  {Mark 9:30,33} What Peter said in his letter.

*2 Peter 1:18 We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.  {2 Pet 1:16-21}

Mark 9:2 Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up on a high mountain apart by themselves; and He was transfigured before them.     {why go up the mountain, and – the inter circle }

*Luke 9:28 Now it came to pass, about eight days after these sayings, that He took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray.   {8 days were inclusive}

*Matthew 17:2 His appearance was changed in front of them, his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light.

*Exodus 33:20-23 NKJV But He said, "You cannot see My face; for no man shall see Me, and live." (21) And the LORD said, "Here is a place by Me, and you shall stand on the rock. (22) So it shall be, while My glory passes by, that I will put you in the cleft of the rock, and will cover you with My hand while I pass by. (23) Then I will take away My hand, and you shall see My back; but My face shall not be seen."

*Exodus 34:30 So when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone, and they were afraid to come near him.

*Exodus 34:33 And when Moses had finished speaking with them, he put a veil on his face.

A lot of different theories where the mount is located, but was Probably Mt. Hermon: 9,000 ft above sea level (Almost 11,000 ft above the Jordan valley).

This made a profound life experience on John, James and Peter. For a brief time, Jesus took on an appearance more appropriate for the King of Glory than for a humble man.

Transfigured”: to change into another form, to transform, from which we get the Greek term metamorphosis, a comprehensive change from within;

An example of course is the caterpillar: emerging from a cocoon as a beautiful butterfly.  Same word.

A total change from inside out is what being called for

*2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with unveiled face, {Moses Face} beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Mark 9:3 His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them.

*Luke 9:29 As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening.

These garments appeared to be glowing with a brilliancy such as no worker in linen or other material for apparel could produce.  This shining comes from the inside out.

Why did Jesus do this, and why at this time? Because Jesus just told His disciples that He was going the way of the cross (Death - Mar 8:31), and spiritually they should follow Him in the way of the cross.  They know now that Jesus will be rejected and killed, but He is still in control.

Important, we are to carry the cross, but the goal isn’t the cross.  The cross is the path to the goal, and the goal is the glory of God we are to have when we are changed at Jesus coming. 

Mark 9:4  And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus.   {is this really true}

*Luke 9:30 Suddenly, two men were talking with him. They were Moses and Elijah.

*Matthew 17:3 And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him.

Elijah and Moses show up, so there are now 6 people there.  Wonder what they were talking about. Jesus and the 3 disciples.  Moses would seem to represent the Law; Elijah, the prophets. He was a major prophet from the Old Testament.  Also, they might represent those:

Unknown Mystery:  Why did Michael contend with Satan for the body of Moses?  I do not have an answer to this.  There must be something about the body of Moses that stands out.  {his face shinning} 

Who have died (Moses – remember what Jude said about Moses body)

*Jude 1:9 Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, "The Lord rebuke you!"  {insight about the death of Moses, would not know about}

*Deuteronomy 34:5-6 So Moses the servant of the LORD died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD. (6) And He buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth Peor; but no one knows his grave to this day.

And those who will be raised as Elijah was taken away in a chariot. 

*2 Kings 2:11 Then it happened, as they continued on and talked, that suddenly a chariot of fire appeared with horses of fire, and separated the two of them; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.

*1 Thessalonians 4:17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.

Ok, what were they talking about?  This to me is a confusing, hard understanding.  We have some clues what they said.  Have you heard this before?

The verb tense according to authorities indicates that this was an extended conversation they were talking with Jesus.  Now to add something.

Luke 9:31 They had a glorified appearance, and were discussing Jesus' departure that he would shortly bring about in Jerusalem.

They were talking about Jesus death and departure which would happen in Jerusalem.  This inter group of Disciples was treated to this experience.  A religious discussion.  It was just like a Staff Meeting – connected with 2^nd coming. 

Remember, the cross was not a tragedy, not an accident, not a disaster.

It was what Jesus came into this world for.  It was not an afterthought.  It was the fulfillment of Psalms 22 and Isaiah 53 and virtually all of the rest of Scripture.   It is a big deal.

I personally believe that there is not a passage in the Bible that you can disconnect from Jesus Himself:  His mission, His destiny, His glory.  Jesus would be found on every page of the Bible.

The three disciples had fallen asleep during Jesus’ prayer and almost missed seeing Moses and Elijah and Jesus in His glory! Mark does not record this about the disciples falling asleep.

*Luke 9:32 But Peter and those with him were heavy with sleep; and when they were fully awake, they saw His glory and the two men who stood with Him.    {climbing mountain and at night?}

*Matthew 17:4 Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah."

Matthew indicates that the three heard the voice from heaven and “fell facedown to the ground, terrified. But Jesus came and touched them. ‘Get up,’ He said, ‘Don’t be afraid.’” 

*Matthew 17:6-7 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid. (7) But Jesus came and touched them and said, "Arise, and do not be afraid."

Mark 9:5 Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah"--

Mark 9:6 because he {Peter?} did not know what to say, for they were greatly afraid.

*Luke 9:33 Then it happened, as they were parting from Him, that Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah"--not knowing what he said.

This was probably about the time of the year during Feast of Succoth, of Feast of Booths or called Feast of Tabernacles. 

Jesus is the issue, not Moses or Elijah,

Mark 9:7 Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!"

{ The voice from the cloud of glory makes it clear that Jesus is the beloved Son - so Hear Him!}

*Luke 9:34-35 While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were fearful as they entered the cloud. (35) And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!"   {the cloud came around them?}

*Matthew 17:5 While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!"

*Exodus 19:9 And the LORD said to Moses, "Behold, I come to you in the thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with you, and believe you forever." So Moses told the words of the people to the LORD.

When did this happen before, at Jesus baptism.  Is this the Father speaking.

The Father interrupted Peter’s suggestion, and focused their attention, not on the vision, but on the Word of God: “Hear Him.” 

Mark 9:8 Suddenly, when they had looked around, they saw no one anymore, but only Jesus with themselves.

*Luke 9:36 When the voice had ceased, Jesus was found alone. But they kept quiet, and told no one in those days any of the things they had seen.

*Luke 9:37 The next day, when they came down from the mountain, a large crowd met him.  {did not travel far}

*Matthew 17:8 When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.

Mark 9:9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus gave them orders not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead.

*Matthew 17:9 Now as they came down from the mountain, Jesus commanded them, saying, "Tell the vision to no one until the Son of Man is risen from the dead."

Jesus just told the 3 that He is going to die and be raised from the dead.

A confidential thing that happen to them.  The three men were not to tell the other nine.  

Mark 9:10 They kept the matter to themselves, discussing what "rising from the dead" meant.

Their confusion is understandable. That’s a tough concept, even today.  The women seems to be the only ones who gets that Jesus will die and be raised from the dead.

Mark 9:11 And they asked him, "Why do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?"

*Matthew 17:10 And His disciples asked Him, saying, "Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?"

*Malachi 4:5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet Before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD.

Mark 9:12  Jesus replied, "To be sure, Elijah does come first, and restores all things. Why then is it written that the Son of Man must suffer much and be rejected?

*Matthew 17:11 Jesus answered and said to them, "Indeed, Elijah is coming first and will restore all things.

The confusion concerning Elijah continues even today. They knew the prophecies and it was widely recognized that these would be fulfilled before the Messiah appeared. 

Mark 9:13 But I tell you, Elijah has come, and they have done to him everything they wished, just as it is written about him."

*Matthew 17:12 But I say to you that Elijah has come already, and they did not know him but did to him whatever they wished. Likewise the Son of Man is also about to suffer at their hands."

*Matthew 17:13 Then the disciples understood that He spoke to them of John the Baptist.

Book of Proverbs, Chapter 1:8-33

Book of Proverbs, Chapter 1:8-33             August 18, 2018

Question from last week. King Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines.  The wives were described as foreign princesses, including Pharaoh's daughter and women of Moab, Ammon, Edom, Sidon and of the Hittites and his wives led him astray.

1 Kings 11:1-8 But King Solomon loved many foreign women, as well as the daughter of Pharaoh: women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians, and Hittites-- (2) from the nations of whom the LORD had said to the children of Israel, "You shall not intermarry with them, nor they with you. Surely they will turn away your hearts after their gods." Solomon clung to these in love. (3) And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines; and his wives turned away his heart. (4) For it was so, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned his heart after other gods; and his heart was not loyal to the LORD his God, as was the heart of his father David. (5) For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. (6) Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD, and did not fully follow the LORD, as did his father David. (7) Then Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the abomination of Moab, on the hill that is east of Jerusalem, and for Molech the abomination of the people of Ammon. (8) And he did likewise for all his foreign wives, who burned incense and sacrificed to their gods.

King Solomon is an example for us today,  We know there is a difference between having knowledge and applying knowledge.  Solomon was extremely wise, but he was a man with temptations like any other person but he obeyed God in many areas, yet he failed with women. 

We should learn from his mistakes and his wisdom recorded in Proverbs to avoid these problems in our own lives.

Last week I ask the question, “What does it mean to live ‘the good life’?” God’s word, Proverbs answers this question and deals with every day issues of how to live life in this physical world.  

Proverbs is a book that is concerned with the development of Godly Character.  A Godly man is not merely one who professes to believe certain truths, but one who practices them.

*James 2:23-24 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend.  (24)  You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.

Proverbs is devoted to the development of Godly character. We who profess to be Christians or Followers of our Lord Jesus are to become like Christ in every way, especially His character.

The study of character in Proverbs will instruct us how to do this. Second, we need to be able to discern the character of others.

PROVERBS HELPS US TO LOOK AT LIFE REALISTICALLY.

The Enticement of Sinners, Warning Against the Invitation of Sinful Men

Proverbs 1:8 Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching;

Proverbs 1:9  They will be a graceful ornament on your head and a chain to adorn your neck.   {graceful ornament, about our neck}

Remember our teachings of our fathers and mothers when we were young.  Notice, it is father’s instruction and mother’s teaching appeal. 

Notice the opening words of wisdom's instruction comes as an appeal from parents to their children (son, a generic term for child);

Both father and mother teach.

Do we realize that we have a Father in Heaven giving us instruction in His Word, the Scriptures, that we are to obey.

Timothy is a good example of this.

*2 Timothy 3:15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

Children listening and obeying the instructions of their parents are more lovely than any beautiful ornament or honor that can be put on their heads.  When we see our kids are doing good, we feel good and that also goes for our grandchildren.  

In many nations, highest honor is given by a signet ring and chain of gold about the neck when acting according to the principles of true wisdom, proceeding from the fear of God, especially if is our own children.

*Genesis 41:42 Then Pharaoh took his signet ring off his hand and put it on Joseph's hand; and he clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain around his neck.

*Daniel 5:29 Then at Belshazzar's command, Daniel was clothed in purple, a gold chain was placed around his neck, and he was proclaimed the third highest ruler in the kingdom.

Proverbs 1:10-14 My son, if sinners entice you, Do not consent. (11) If they say, "Come with us, Let us lie in wait to shed blood; Let us lurk secretly for the innocent without cause; (12) Let us swallow them alive like Sheol, And whole, like those who go down to the Pit; (13) We shall find all kinds of precious possessions, We shall fill our houses with spoil; (14) Cast in your lot among us, Let us all have one purse"—

Vs, 10 My son, if sinners entice you, Do not consent {or do not give in to}.

*1 Corinthians 15:33  Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character."

The first great danger which happens to the simple and the young is that of evil companionship. The only safety is to be found in the power of saying “No,” to all such invitation

There is the natural temptation for young people to go with the group, to feel that they are part of the group.

*Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers,

The wicked do not have the fear of God.

We know the devil himself cannot lead a person into sin unless he consents.  We have free moral agency to choose, were it not so, how could God judge the world.

Vs. 11  If they say, "Come along with us; let's lie in wait for innocent {shed} blood, let's ambush some harmless soul; 

{some innocent person for no reason at all}

Peer pressure from others is hard; the way sinful men entice others to rob and murder by doing so in ambush.  They may be lured by the excitement of anything so daring.

Vs.12 let's swallow them alive, like the grave, and whole, like those who go down to the pit;

{destroy the victims and traces of the crime}

*Genesis 37:20 Come therefore, let us now kill him and cast him into some pit; and we shall say, 'Some wild beast has devoured him.' We shall see what will become of his dreams!"

Vs. 13  we will get all sorts of valuable things and fill our houses with plunder {spoils};

They kill and the carry away their personal property and the booty will be great.

Vs.14 cast lots with us; we will all share the loot { have one purse}

Common sense says this gang of cutthroats would say together, we would have equal share of all the spoil.

A warning against temptation.  Avoid the beginnings of sin.

Proverbs 1:15-19 My son, do not walk in the way with them, Keep your foot from their path; (16) For their feet run to evil, And they make haste to shed blood. (17) Surely, in vain the net is spread In the sight of any bird; (18) But they lie in wait for their own blood, They lurk secretly for their own lives. (19) So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain; It takes away the life of its owners.

These parents speak words of caution to their children. If you take one step on this path is a step closer toward destruction. Spreading a net in the sight of the birds to trap would be a fruitless task. Yet the fool is less sensible than the bird; he will watch the trap being set and get caught in it anyway.  We see this in news all the time.

Vs.15 my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths;        {have nothing at all to do with them or way of life}

Vs.16  for their feet rush into evil, they are swift {haste} to shed blood.

*Romans 3:15  "Their feet are swift to shed blood;

These evil men want to cover their sin about obtaining individuals personal things so that no information may be given out about them is why there is blood of innocent persons involved, commit robberies and murder. 

Vs.17  How useless {in vain} to spread a net where every bird can see it!

These men will not take the warning. This is the first proverb in Proverbs which has received a variety of interpretations.

The great net of God’s judgments is spread out, open to the eyes of all, and yet the doers of evil, willfully blind, still rush into it though they know it is to their own ruin.”

Vs.18  These men lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush only themselves { lurk secretly for their own lives}

Men own blood - The destruction which they design to others, fall upon themselves.

*Psalms 9:16 The LORD is known by the judgment He executes; The wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Meditation. Selah

Vs.19 So are the ways {paths} of everyone who is greedy {ill-gotten} for gain; It takes away the life of its owners.

Greedy – that seeks gain by wicked practices, basically a murderer. 

*2 Peter 2:3 In their greed they will exploit you with deceptive words. The ancient verdict against them is still in force, and their destruction is not delayed.

We just conclude this section talking to my son, and now introduce a theme that the following passages develop passages develop further.  The study of wisdom is a matter of life and death.

The call of wisdom, Wisdom’s Rebuke and Jesus warning

Proverbs 1:20-22  Wisdom calls aloud outside; She raises her voice in the open squares. (21) She cries out in the chief concourses, At the openings of the gates in the city She speaks her words: (22) "How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? For scorners delight in their scorning, And fools hate knowledge.

Vs.20 Wisdom calls aloud outside {in the open}; She raises her voice in the open {public} squares.

*1 Corinthians 1:30 But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God--and righteousness and sanctification and redemption   {Jesus is Wisdom}

The wicked men plan behind closed doors while  wisdom is discussed in the streets or open places.  Not in corners, but openly before all the world.

This wisdom is the eternal Word of Jesus and no one can pretend ignorance.

Vs.21 She {Wisdom} calls {cries} out at the busiest part of the noisy streets, and at the entrance to the gates of the city she utters her words:

*Acts 5:20 "Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life."

Wisdom in every part of the city.  These Words by which the way unto life is shown.

Vs.22 "How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? For scorners delight in their scorning, And fools hate knowledge.

Three Losers are in the Proverbs we will find, covered last week.

Simple Ones:  Loser (silly - that is, easily lead astray, foolish one, who err out of ignorance)

Scorners:  Loser (Mockers who cannot stand to be taught, make a mouth, make a mock, mocker, scorn) at Jesus and his disciples and followers, His doctrines and miracles, sufferings and death.  

Fool:  Loser (figuratively stupid or silly, foolish); The person who is dense, sluggish, careless, and self-satisfied, who are drowned in worldly lusts and hate the knowledge of godliness.  Fools hate knowledge of Jesus and the Father and His followers.

All Rejects Wisdom, listen to Folly and leads to death.  Just look at the news today, about all the hate against Christians and what they stand for.

Proverbs 1:23-25 Turn at my rebuke; Surely I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you. (24) Because I have called and you refused, I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded, (25) Because you disdained all my counsel, And would have none of my rebuke,

Vs.23 Turn {repent} at my rebuke; Surely I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.

*Titus 3:5-6 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, (6) whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior,

*John 16:13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.

Vs.24 Because I have called and you refused {to listen}, I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded {pays attention},

*Isaiah 65:2 I have stretched out My hands all day long to a rebellious people, Who walk in a way that is not good, According to their own thoughts;

Vs.25 Because you disdained {disregard} all my counsel, And would have none {accept} of my rebuke,

We will see what will happen to the individuals, losers

Proverbs 1:26-30  I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your terror comes, (27) When your terror comes like a storm, And your destruction comes like a whirlwind, When distress and anguish come upon you. (28) "Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me. (29) Because they hated knowledge And did not choose the fear of the LORD, (30) They would have none of my counsel And despised my every rebuke.

Vs.26 I also will laugh at your calamity {when disaster strikes you}; I will mock when your terror comes {or overtakes you},

*Psalms 2:4 He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; The LORD {scoffs at them} shall hold them in derision.

*Luke 21:26 men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.

Vs.27 When your terror comes {calamity overtakes you} like a storm, And your destruction comes like a whirlwind, When distress and anguish come upon you {trouble overwhelm you}.

*Romans 2:8-9 But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.  (9)  There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile;

Vs.28 "Then they will call on me {or to me}, but I will not answer; They will seek me diligently {look for me}, but they will not find me.

*John 9:31 We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will.

Vs.29 Because they hated knowledge And did not choose the fear of the LORD,

Vs.30 They would have none of my counsel {or advice} And despised {spurned} my every rebuke {correction}.

Showing that without faith and obedience, we cannot call on God correctly.

Way of Life results we see what Jesus tells us

Proverbs 1:31-33 Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, And be filled to the full with their own fancies. (32) For the turning away of the simple will slay them, And the complacency of fools will destroy them; (33) But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, And will be secure, without fear of evil."

Vs.31 Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way {way of life}, And be filled to the full with their own fancies {or schemes}.

Vs.32 For the turning away of the simple will slay them {kill them}, And the complacency of fools will destroy them;

To the Wise, for following the Words of Jesus

Vs.33 But whoever listens to me will dwell safely {live in safety}, And will be secure {at ease}, without fear of evil {or harm}."

Rejection of wisdom of Jesus our Lord will slay them. This warning ends with a promise of life to the few who will listen; they will find safety in the hands of our Father.

Book of Proverbs, Chapter 1:1-7, Introduction

Book of Proverbs, Chapter 1:1-7, Introduction        August 11, 2018

Let me ask a question, “What does it mean to live ‘the good life’?” Proverbs answers this question and deals with every day issues of how to live life in this physical world of God’s good creation.   Proverbs means a short saying in general use, stating a general truth or piece of advice, eexpresses some obvious truth or familiar experience.

Let’s get an overview of the 7 first verses Proverbs

Proverbs 1:1-7 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:  (2)  for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight;  (3)  for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair;  (4)  for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young (5)  let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance (6)  for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.  (7)  The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

The author is King Solomon

Solomon lived five hundred years before the “seven wise men” of Greece, and seven hundred before the age of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.  Solomon reigned from 971 to 931.

He Wrote 3000 proverbs

*1 Kings 4:32  He spoke three thousand proverbs and his songs numbered a thousand and five.

King Hezekiah reigned from 729 to 686.

*Proverbs 25:1 There are more proverbs of Solomon, compiled by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah:  {chap 25-29}

King Solomon was the wisest person in his day

*1 Kings 4:30 Solomon's wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the people of the East, and greater than all the wisdom of Egypt.

King Solomon is credit with the proverbs, but Lord God is the Author of all Scriptures.

*2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, (17) that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

We just read  “All Scripture  is . . . profitable” in four ways:

·      for doctrine —what’s right;

·      for reproof—what’s not right;

·      for correction—how to get right;

·      for instruction in righteousness—how to stay right.

Wisdom: occurs 45 times in Proverbs and means:

Traditional definition:  the ability to use knowledge in the right way

Biblical definition:  wisdom of the world

*1 Corinthians 2:6  We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.  {and verses 7 and 8}

Devine wisdom is from above:  Jesus is the Wisdom of God

*1 Corinthians 1:30  It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.

Proverbs is a collection of pithy sayings in which, by comparison or contrast, some important truth is set forth, covering subjects of pursuit of wisdom, fear of God, liberty, faithfulness, and honesty in business relationships.

The Beginning of Knowledge

Title of Proverbs

Proverbs 1:1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:     {What blessings did God give to Solomon}

*1 Kings 3:12-13 I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be.  (13)  Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both wealth and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings.

*1 Kings 4:29-30 God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore.  (30)  Solomon's wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the people of the East, and greater than all the wisdom of Egypt.

Proverbs is God’s book of parables, comparison, sentences of ethical wisdom, ethical truth or principles.  7 items stand out

1.   How to wise up and live

2.   Beyond keeping laws.

3.   Focuses on leading an aggressively, dynamic life.

4.   Proper and improper attitudes, conduct, and characteristics are referred to in penetrating ways

5.   Short sentences from long experience

6.   Easy to remember

7.   Condense much wisdom in a small space.

Overall Purpose of Proverbs, verses 2-6, practical wisdom for the living and management of life

Basic Purpose of Proverbs

·      For attaining wisdom and discipline.

·      For understanding words of insight.

·      For acquiring a disciplined and prudent life.

·      For giving good judgment or common sense to the simple.

·      For understanding proverbs, parables, sayings and riddles of the wise

First, what is Wisdom.

Traditional definition: The ability to use knowledge in the right way.

Biblical:  There is a wisdom of this world

*1 Corinthians 2:6 However, when we are among mature people, we do speak a message of wisdom, but not the wisdom of this world or of the rulers of this world, who are passing off the scene.

*James 3:14-15 But if you have bitter jealousy and rivalry in your hearts, stop boasting and slandering the truth. (15) That kind of wisdom does not come from above. No, it is worldly, self-centered, and demonic.

Divine wisdom is from above:  Jesus Christ is the Wisdom of God 

*Colossians 2:3 in whom {Jesus} are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

Important:  Yet wisdom means so much more.  True wisdom is a matter of the heart and not the mind alone.

To be wise in the Biblical sense one must have a proper relationship to God.

If we want to live wisely, we must begin with commitment to Jesus Christ, who is “the wisdom of God” and then to follow  and obey Jesus commands for each of us.  So hard for us to do.

*1 Corinthians 1:30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.

The Beginning of Knowledge

Proverbs 1:2  for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight;

Instruction: discipline or training, what we ought to know and follow, and what we ought to refuse.

Understanding: The power of distinguishing right from wrong, truth from its counterfeit, good and evil, profitable and worthless and helpful and harmful.  The word of God in which is the only true insight to our Father and Jesus.

Proverbs 1:3  for receiving instruction in wise behavior, doing what is right and just and fair;  {or instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment and upright living}

We need to be willing to submit ourselves to the correction of those who are wise and to receive righteous counsels or instructions from others.

We need to live a righteous life and rendering to every man what which belongs to him and to pass a right sentence upon human actions, whether our own or another’s..

Proverbs 1:4  for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young

By listening to these proverbs the simple will become experienced, knowledgeable, and well-informed and young people will gain insight and common sense and not make mistakes and learn from the harsh facts of life.

Proverbs 1:5  let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance

Wise men will grow wiser by heeding these proverbs, and a man of understanding will learn how to guide himself and to advise others as well.

There are many things entertaining to men of years and wisdom in the Proverbs, as well as instructive to the young men and simple ones and will add to their learning on life.

Proverbs 1:6  for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.

Something important to recognize; a great amount of the world’s wisdom is contained in proverbs. But it must be noted that many of the world’s proverbs are faulty, wrong and imperfect, and most likely unsafe rules for a Christian to follow in everyday life. 

We learn what a little bit of leaven can do in everyday life last week. 

The proverbs of Solomon are all good and come from the Holy Spirit of God.

Proverbs is designed to enable a person to understand proverbs and parables and the lesson which often lies beneath the surface. It helps him to grasp the meaning of wise sayings and the hidden truths contained in them.

As a truth, no one finishes the study of wisdom; there is always more to learn and speaks of the lessons that more mature person gains from the study of the proverbs.

We just covered the purpose of Proverbs

We will find in the Proverbs as we go through the various chapters: 

1 winner and 3 losers.

The Wise:  Winner

Proverbs 11:30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.

1.   Listen to instruction

2.   Obey what they hear

3.   Store up what they learn

4.   Win others to the Lord

5.   Flee from sin

6.   Watch their tongue

7.   Are diligent in their daily work

The Three Losers are in the Proverbs

Proverbs 1:22 "How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? For scorners delight in their scorning, And fools hate knowledge.

Simple Ones:  Loser (silly - that is, lead astray, foolish one)

·      Believe everything and everybody and lack discernment

·      Easily led astray by others and lack understanding

·      Cannot see ahead and repeatedly walk into trouble

·      Reject Wisdom, listen to Folly and ended up dead 

Scorners:  Loser (make a mouth, make a mock, mocker, scorn)

·      Mock at God’s wisdom and not admit it, because they know everything

·      Never profit from rebuke and will one day be judged

·      Reject Wisdom, listen to Folly and received destruction

·      The Hebrew word for “scorner” literally means “to make a mouth”; and we can easily picture them sneering and curling up their lips in scorn.

Fool:  Loser (figuratively stupid or silly, foolish); The person who is dense, sluggish, careless, and self-satisfied

1.   hates instruction

2.   is self-confident

3.   talks without thinking

4.   mocks at sin

5.   Reject Wisdom, listen to Folly and leads to death 

This is the theme of Proverbs and is the key verse of the Book of Proverbs.

Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

We are told, if someone wants to be wise, the place to begin is in worshiping God and in trusting and obeying Him.

Likewise, a fool is one who cannot be told anything, conceited, and only learns lessons the hard way, if at all. They are the fools and indifferent to God’s Holy character and government; the wicked and have rejected the fear of the Lord is the same as rejecting wisdom outright.

The fear, which is the reverence and obedience to God is the beginning foundation without which all other knowledge is vain.

Jobs final words:

*Job 28:28 And he said to the human race, "The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding."

*Ecclesiastes 12:13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.

The other part of fear, the Apostle Paul tells us:

*Hebrews 10:31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Fools - That is, wicked men, are so far from attaining true wisdom, that they despise it, and all the means of getting it.

This is the wrong type of fear; First, realize that there is a fear of God that doesn’t produce good results. This terrifying and paralyzing fear is likely the type of fear that comes to our mind.

This type of fear does not have a positive end. This fear is not what God is looking for. 

Remember, the fear of the LORD for a Believer; the fear of the God who created the universe but who deigns us to be in relationship with our Lord Jesus, is required for wisdom. Such proper fear teaches us our place in the world and how to live well in it.

Psalms 128:1 Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in obedience to him.

The fear of God is an attitude of respect, a response of reverence and wonder. It is the only appropriate response to our Creator and Redeemer.