Turning Mourning into Joy

By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Jeremiah 31:1-30

 

Jeremiah 31:13

Then shall the young women rejoice in the dance,
    and the young men and the old shall be merry.
I will turn their mourning into joy;
    I will comfort them, and give them gladness for sorrow.

(ESV)

 

I urge everyone reading this to continue praying for the people in Ukraine. While the bravery and courage of the Ukrainian people are inspirational, victory will require a Godly intervention like the intervention by God for Israel when they found themselves backed up to the Red Sea with the Egyptian army advancing towards them (Exodus 14). The situation seemed impossible for Israel, but God provided a way to escape the Egyptian army and the means to destroy the enemy of God’s people. Prayer is a powerful thing and a tool the people of God must use (James 5:16).

 

The Word of the Lord given by Jeremiah in Jeremiah 31:1-30 is a word of encouragement for the people of Judah and Israel living in exile. The text is in four sections that provide encouragement and comfort by,

 

1)      God reminding His people of His relationship with them (Jeremiah 31:1-6) – Even though Israel and Judah have been rebellious by worshipping other gods, they are still the people of God and dearly loved by Him. It was never the intention of God to destroy His people but to discipline them, bringing them to repentance. God is a good Father who disciplines His people for repentance and not their destruction because his plans for His people are for their good and not their destruction (Jeremiah 29:11).

2)      God stateing His intention to bring His people home (Jeremiah 31:7-14) – The people in exile are in mourning and perhaps beginning to believe their exile would become permanent due to its protracted length. This passage begins by encouraging the exiles to begin singing aloud and to shout for joy to the Lord (Jeremiah 31:7). The Lord promises to bring His people back to their land on a straight path by brooks of water (Jeremiah 31:8-9). This return of Israel and Judah to their land serves as a demonstration of the mercy and love of God towards His people (Jeremiah 31:10-14).

3)      God promising the lament of Israel and Judah will be turned into joy (Jeremiah 31:15-20) – The exiles are weeping over their situation with the Lord promising a reward for their work and hope for the future (Jeremiah 31:15-17). The Lord has heard the lament of Ephraim and his relenting or repenting of his sin and reminds Ephraim of His love and the yearning of His heart towards him (Jeremiah 31:18-20).

4)      God reminding those in exile that the path to restoration is repentance (Jeremiah 31:21-30) – God encourages Israel and Judah to set up road markers and guideposts leading them back to their land (Jeremiah 31:21). The Lord then challenges His people in exile by asking them how long they will waver in turning back to God (Jeremiah 31:22). God then provides a picture of what life will be like once Israel and Judah return to their land (Jeremiah 31:23-25). At this Jeremiah awakens from his pleasant sleep with the Lord reinforcing his intention to return His people to the Promised Land (Jeremiah 31:26-30).

 

The nation of Israel and Judah has gone into exile for rebelling against God and worship of other gods. Exile is the consequence of this rebellion (Deuteronomy 28:15-68). While exile is the consequence of rebellion against God, God is merciful and promises restoration when Israel repents of their sin (Deuteronomy 30:1-3). In Jeremiah 31:21, God urges His people to reflect on their pathway of rebellion, return to God, and once again live in the cities God gave to them. Upon doing this, those preserved in exile will once again experience joy instead of mourning (Jeremiah 31:15-29).

 

The Jews in exile did not stop being God’s chosen people but due to rebellion suffered a time in exile to bring them to repentance. As Christians, we have a position as righteous and children of God because of what Christ Jesus has done (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, we live in a fallen world full of temptation and can succumb to this temptation and fall into sin. Thankfully, God’s mercy forgives and brings restoration to those that repent and turn back to God (1 John 1:9). If you are reading this and have never invited Jesus to be your Savior, I invite you to pray with me and receive salvation from your sins,

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

For those that know Jesus as Savior but have drifted away from Christ, I urge you to repent and receive restoration. May God challenge and bless everyone reading this.

Justified by Faith

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Romans 4:1-12

 

Romans 4:4-5

Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. 5 And to the one who does not work but believes in[a] him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness,

(ESV)

 

Before beginning this study, I want to take a moment to urge those reading this post to continue praying for the people of Ukraine. This is a modern David (Ukraine) and Goliath (David) situation. While military experts placed the odds of victory with the stronger Goliath, David did prevail in his confrontation with Goliath (1 Samuel 17) giving hope Ukraine can prevail in this situation. James 5:16 reminds us that prayer has great power, so I urge everyone reading this to keep praying.

 

The discussion in Romans now shifts from establishing the guilt of humanity culminating in Romans 3:23 establishing the fact that all have sinned to how one can become guiltless through God’s provision of righteousness. The discussion begins with Paul asking what Abraham gained according to the flesh (Romans 4:1). If Abraham gained his righteous standing with God through works of the flesh, he would have had something to boast in as would we all if our salvation was due to our works (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 4:2). However, Genesis 15:6 states that Abraham was counted as righteous because he believed in God (Romans 4:3). The passage then compares the difference between one working for their wages versus one who does not work. For one working for a wage, the money is what he or she is due for their labors (Romans 4:4). For one that does not work for their reward, the receipt of their reward is a gift based on belief in the one who justifies the ungodly (Romans 4:5). David spoke of one receiving this righteousness apart from works as a blessing for their lawless deeds of sins are forgiven and covered with God no longer counting them against him or her (Romans 4:6-8).

 

The discussion then shifts from righteous justification apart from works to who can receive this gift. Paul asks the reader to consider if the blessing of the gift of salvation is only for the circumcised or also available for the uncircumcised (Romans 4:9). To answer this question, we must consider the timing of God’s calling Abraham righteous, and the implementation of the requirement of circumcision. We find God’s declaration of Abraham as righteous in Genesis 15:6 with the implementation of circumcision in Genesis 17:1-14. Since Genesis is a chronological account of history from creation to Israel going to Egypt escaping circumcision comes after God declared Abraham righteous. Therefore, God’s declaration of Abraham as Righteous has nothing to do with his works of adherence to a religious ritual and everything to do with his belief or faith (Romans 4:11). From this position, Abraham is the father of all who believe without circumcision but also the father of the circumcised who also walk the footsteps of faith Abraham had before his circumcision (Romans 4:12). 

 

Abraham was declared righteous by God in (Genesis 15:6) but this was before he was circumcised (Genesis 17:1-14). Therefore, the declaration of Abraham as righteous before God occurred by faith and was not due to religious adherence to the Law or observance of a religious ritual like circumcision. There is only one righteous man, Jesus Christ and while Abraham did not see Jesus on earth, he lived in anticipation of Messiah coming with that belief counting him as righteous (Galatians 3:5-6).

 

We live under the New Covenant and instead of looking forward to Messiah’s coming, we can look back at the cross (Ephesians 2:14-16; Galatians 6:14; Romans 5:8). However, this still requires faith for we were not present at the cross as eyewitnesses to the crucifixion or the resurrection. I invite those reading this who have not done so to take a moment to pray to receive by faith the gift of salvation and justification offered by God,

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

While we look back at the cross for salvation, we do look forward to the return of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom on earth, words we are to encourage each other with (1 Thessalonians 5:11). As we continue to witness events in Ukraine and other parts of the world, have, we have hope for God is in control and will return to bring peace. May God bless and challenge everyone reading this post.

A Promise of Restoration

 A Promise of Restoration

 

By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Jeremiah 30:1-24

 

Jeremiah 30:8-9

“And it shall come to pass in that day, declares the Lord of hosts, that I will break his yoke from off your neck, and I will burst your bonds, and foreigners shall no more make a servant of him.[a] 9 But they shall serve the Lord their God and David their king, whom I will raise up for them.

(ESV)

 

While my handyman skills are definitely lacking, I still enjoy watching home improvement programs on television. I find it fascinating that people have the skills to take an extremely run-down home and restore it to something beautiful. However, these restoration skills pale in comparison to the restoration done by Jesus on the cross. The passage in Jeremiah 30:1-24 provides an Old Testament account of the graciousness of God towards His people despite their failure to worship only God and practice duplicitous worship of God and the pagan gods of the land. While not recorded in scripture, I am sure many reading these words of prophecy from God found comfort in knowing God would restore them and place them back in their land.

 

The passage begins with God giving Jeremiah a word to deliver to those in exile but, unlike other prophecies, this one brings hope of restoration (Jeremiah 30:1-3). The passage then lets the exiles know that the Lord is aware of the panic and terror they are experiencing (Jeremiah 30:4-6), ending with the Lord declaring their tribulation is great but that the Lord will save Jacob out of their distress (Jeremiah 30:7). The Lord then promises to break the yoke off their necks and burst their bonds with foreigners no longer making servants out of God’s people (Jeremiah 30:8). Instead of a future of exile, the future for God’s people is bright with them returning to their land to serve the Lord their God and have David as their king whom God will raise up for them (Jeremiah 30:9). This is a reference to Jesus, from the lineage of David who would come to save the world from sin.

 

God reminds His people not to fear or be dismayed because the Lord intends to save His people and bring to an end the nations where God scattered His people in exile (Jeremiah 30:10-11). However, God also intends to discipline His people, for their sins cannot go unpunished. The Lord then lets His people know the hurt from their sin is incurable and grievous but later promises to restore health to them (Jeremiah 30: 13, 17). While these statements seem contradictory, it is a promise that nothing is impossible with God (Matthew 19:26). The sins of Judah and Israel are incurable by human standards but find a cure through the grace of God just as our sins have full forgiveness at the cross (John 19:30). God reminds His people that their gods were of no help and that restoration and the defeat of the nations holding Israel and Judah captive will occur (Jeremiah 30:14-16). 

 

Not only did God restore the health of God’s people, but the people will also have a complete restoration of their property and the rebuilding of their cities. Instead of panic and distress, the people will sing songs of thanksgiving and celebration (Jeremiah 30:19). God also promises a restoration of identity with Israel and Judah once again identified as children of God (Jeremiah 30:20-22). The word from the Lord ends with the Lord describing a storm of wrath from the Lord that will burst upon the wicked with the fierce anger of the Lord not turning back until the Lord accomplishes his intentions (Jeremiah 30:23-24).

 

Judah and Israel have committed grievous sins and have an incurable wound (Jeremiah 30:12). However, God is a gracious God who promises to heal their wounds and restore their health (Jeremiah 30:17). Because of God's grace towards His people, the people will sing songs of thanksgiving and have something for which to celebrate (Jeremiah 30:19). As promised, God’s plan for those in captivity was not their destruction but their good (Jeremiah 29:11). The discipline given by God to Judah and Israel came in just measure, allowing them to repent and experience full restoration from God.

 

All humanity has sinned and missed the mark with God (Romans 3:23). The result of this sin is an incurable wound carrying the death penalty (Romans 6:23). However, God has provided a gift of grace for humanity, His Son Jesus Christ. So powerful is this gift that one believing in Jesus and making a profession of faith in Jesus as their Savior is saved and receives eternal life (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10). Like any gift, one must accept the gift of salvation and open it for the recipient to receive any benefits. If you are reading this and have not accepted God's gift of salvation, I invite you to do so by praying with me,

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

May God challenge and bless everyone reading this post.

Righteous by Faith, Not the Law.

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Romans 3:21-31

 

Romans 3:21-23

But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— ²² the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: ²³ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

(ESV)

 

Law and order are what separate civil societies from non-civil ones. The focus on law and order and the rule of law governing it (i.e. Constitutions, city charters, statutes, etc.) has served the United States and other civil societies well, but law and order in our society are now under attack. In many parts of the United States, it is now legal to steal less than one thousand dollars of merchandise from a store. In places like New York City, one can be arrested for a crime and released without bail with a promise to show up in court. Many of these individuals do not show up in court and commit additional crimes. However, there is a rule of law humanity cannot completely obey and why humanity needs a Savior. This rule of law is the law of God.

 

While the inability of humanity In Romans 3:21-31, to obey the law of God as contained in the Old Testament makes righteousness an impossible goal for anyone to attain on their own, Jesus separated the righteousness of God from the law by dying for our sins (Romans 3:21-22; 5:8). Since all have sinned (Romans 3:23) and are under a death penalty for sin (Romans 6:23), all humanity needs the gracious gift of redemption only found through the shed blood of Jesus Christ (Romans 3:24). So powerful is the propitiatory or substitutionary nature of Jesus who knew no sin taking on the death penalty, that it even covered the sins of Old Testament individuals professing a forward-looking faith in their coming Messiah (Romans 3:25-26).

 

In Romans 3:27-31, the narrative shifts to asking about our boasting as human beings. Paul concludes that this boasting is excluded but not by the law of works, but the law of faith (Romans 3:27). Ephesians 2:8-9 describes this faith as belief in the saving grace of God offered to humanity that is separated from the works of humanity. So broad is this grace from God that all can receive its benefits (Romans 3:29-30). However, this does not negate the need for the Law of God for without the Law, humanity would not know they have sinned (Romans 3:31).

 

The extremes of Christianity are liberalism or the belief that Jesus’ death on the cross was a blanket pardon for sin. This extreme believes all receive salvation through Jesus’ death and resurrection regardless of whether they accept Jesus as their Savior or not. However, Romans 10:9-10 states that one must make a verbal profession of faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The other extreme is moralism or a belief that one must have a strict adherence to the law for salvation based on faith without works being dead faith (James 1:26). However, the context of this verse is one performing good works of charity such as clothing or feeding the poor (James 1:14-17). James 1:26 is not saying that works bring salvation, but that one’s profession faith in Jesus as his or her Savior brings life to faith when they perform good works of charity. This is what the Apostle Paul means a manifestation of righteousness now exists apart from the law. This does not negate the role of the law for apart from the law, how can one know they have sinned and missed the mark with God. The balance between these two extremes is the Gospel or the provision of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9) with that faith coming alive through good works (James 1:26).

 

If you are reading this and either believe you are automatically saved because of what Jesus did or that you must have a life strictly following the Ten Commandments for salvation I want to invite you to follow the Gospel and make a profession of faith in Jesus as your Savior by praying with me,

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

I encourage and challenge those reading this to bring life to their faith by growing in faith through attending a local church where they can be with other believers in Christ and learn from God’s Word, Then I encourage those reading this to give of their time and money in service to God, showing others the love of Christ for this is how the world knows we are disciples of Christ (John 13:34-35). May God bless and challenge everyone reading this post.

The Consequences of Delivering False Prophecies

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Jeremiah 29:24-32

 

Jeremiah 29:31-32

“Send to all the exiles, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord concerning Shemaiah of Nehelam: Because Shemaiah had prophesied to you when I did not send him, and has made you trust in a lie, therefore thus says the Lord: Behold, I will punish Shemaiah of Nehelam and his descendants. He shall not have anyone living among this people, and he shall not see the good that I will do to my people, declares the Lord, for he has spoken rebellion against the Lord.’”

(ESV)

 

Those with a calling to teach the Word of God have a high calling and are held by God to a higher standard (James 3:1). For those professing to teach according to the precepts of the Word of God but instead use God to add relevancy to their agenda, the consequences can be dire. Such is the fate of Shemaiah in Jeremiah 29:24-32, and a stern warning to anyone called to teach the Word of God today.

 

Jeremiah 29:24-32 begins with the Lord instructing Jeremiah to give a word to Shemaiah of Nehelam (Jeremiah 29:24). The word is regarding letters sent to those in Jerusalem, Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah the priest, and all the priests (Jeremiah 29:25). Shemaiah directs the letters to Zephaniah who is a priest instead of Jehoiada to have charge over those prophesying to put Shemaiah in stocks and neck irons (Jeremiah 29:26). This indicates a desire of Shemaiah to protect his ability to accomplish his agenda rather than deliver truth from God. The content of the letters now becomes personal for Jeremiah, with Shemaiah asking Zephaniah why he has not rebuked Jeremiah (Jeremiah 29:27). Shemaiah’s contention with Jeremiah is his instructions to those in exile to build houses to live in and plant gardens to eat the produce (Jeremiah 29:28).

 

Zephaniah reads the letter in the presence of Jeremiah who then receives a word from the Lord (Jeremiah 29:29-30). The Word from the Lord given to Jeremiah is that Shemaiah is a false prophet not sent from God (Jeremiah 29:31). Shemaiah will suffer the dire consequences of no descendants plus not living to see the return of the exiles to Jerusalem (Jeremiah 29:32).                                                     

 

Shemaiah has a desire for the exiles to return quickly from exile and issues a prophecy telling the people remaining in Jerusalem, Zephaniah, and all the priests that Jeremiah is a madman prophet because he has asked for them to put him in stocks and neck irons (Jeremiah 29:24-27). Shemaiah’s point of contention with Jeremiah is his instructions for those in exile to build houses to live in and to plant gardens and eat what they produce (Jeremiah 29:28). These instructions indicate a lengthy exile and not a swift return to Judah’s previous rebellion against God, time for repentance (Jeremiah 9:13-16). While scripture is not clear, Shemaiah possibly has a hidden agenda, leading to a desire for a short exile. One possible explanation is that Shemaiah profited from his prophecies but with much of the nation in exile, saw his profits decline. It is also possible he had property in Judah he feared he would lose while in exile. In either instance, Shemaiah appears to be acting in his self-interest and not the best interest of God’s people.

 

God holds those called to teach the Word of God to a higher standard (James 3:1). Therefore, teachers of the Bible must ensure their teaching aligns with the Word of God. The student of the Word of God must also follow the example of the Bereans studying the Word of God daily (Acts 17:10-11) for the teacher may deliver false teaching. Daily study of scripture is not just for those with a calling to teach but something that makes it possible for the student to discern false teaching that does not align with the Word of God. In this time of lies and deception, it has never been more important for believers in Jesus as their Savior to discern truth from lies. Teachers of the Bible who compromise their teaching in the interest of retaining members and increasing contributions are not adhering to the high standard of one with a calling to teach the Word of God (Titus 1:5-2:15) and risk dire circumstances like those Shemaiah experienced. May God bless and challenge all reading this post.

Entrusted with the Gospel of God’s Love, Not Moral Superiority

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Romans 3:1-20

 

Romans 3:20

For by works of the law no human being^[c] will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.

(ESV)

 

Christians are entrusted with the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is the greatest message ever given to humanity for all humanity has sinned and lives under a death penalty for that sin (Romans 3:23; 6:23). However, Christians and the Church have errored in presenting the Gospel either as a blank check to continue living in sin believing God saves everyone, or as a club of moral superiority over unbelievers. Both of these extremes are seen in the two sons in the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). It is the father in this parable that takes the middle ground by forgiving his repentant son and reminding his morally superior son that what he has comes from him. Romans 3:1-20 reminds us that it is God that is righteous and that moralistic obedience to the law does not make one righteous.

 

This text of Romans 3:1-20 is in two sections. The first section upholds God’s righteousness (Romans 3:1-8) and the second section reminds us that no one is righteous due to the guilt of sin (Romans 3:9-20). This illustrates the gap between a righteous God and sinful humanity and why all need a savior to escape the death penalty of sin (Romans 3:23; 6:23).

 

1)      The righteousness of God (Romans 3:1-8) – Paul begins this section on the righteousness of God with a question asking the value of being a Jew and of circumcision (Romans 3:1). In answer to the question, the Apostle Paul reminds the Jews in Rome that they were entrusted with the oracles of God with their unfaithfulness does not nullify the faithfulness of God (Romans 3:2-3). Paul reminds us that God is true and everyone else a liar. While the unrighteousness of man seems to illustrate the righteousness of God presenting the possibility that God is unrighteous in inflicting wrath on humanity (Romans 3:5-6). In addition, if our lie causes God’s truth to abound to His glory, why would God condemn us (Romans 3:7). This also presents the question of why not do evil so that the good of righteousness from God may come (Romans 3:8). While the comparison of our sinful state against the righteousness of God leads to the logical conclusion that our sin somehow glorifies God, Paul later condemns this belief in (Romans 6:15).

2)      Humanity’s unrighteousness (Romans 3:9-20) – The answer to Paul’s first question in Romans 3:1 is there is no advantage for both Jews and Greeks or Gentiles live under sin (Romans 3:9). This is supported in Ecclesiastes 7:20 where we are reminded that no one on earth does good and never sins (Romans 3:10-12). Romans 3:13 states that the throat of unrighteous humanity is an open grave. Psalm 5:9 provides clarification indicating that there is no truth in their mouths. The mouth of the unrighteous is also filled with curses and bitterness (Romans 3:14). The result of this bitterness is feet swift to shed blood and walking down a path of ruin and misery, absent of peace and the fear of God (Romans 3:15-18). The purpose of the law is to speak to those under the law, holding them accountable to God for the law brings the knowledge of sin (Romans 3:19-20).

 

The Jews, entrusted with the law are improperly using their position of trustees of the oracles of God as a position of moral superiority over the Gentiles who are not under the law. This lofty position of moral superiority causes them to completely ignore the sin in their lives and their need for a Savior. It is only God who has a position of moral superiority for only God is righteous (Romans 3:10). However, God is just and righteous but also a loving God who provided the sinless Savior, Jesus Christ to die for humanity’s sin (2 Corinthians 5:21; John 3:16). The law reveals our sin, but it is Jesus who brings salvation.

 

As Christians, we are trustees and ambassadors of the Gospel (2 Corinthians 5:20) and given the mission of proclaiming that message to the world (Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20). However, we as Christians can also become guilty of taking a position of moral superiority with this position of trustees of the Gospel instead of presenting the Gospel from a position as a sinner loved by God and saved through the grace of God, offering salvation out of love for others remaining lost in their sins. If you are reading this and have not accepted the gift of salvation offered by the grace of God, I loving invite you to do so now by praying with me,

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

May God challenge and bless everyone reading this post. 

Obedience Brings Hope

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Jeremiah 29:1-23

 

John 16:33

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

(ESV)

 

While each of us would like to live in a utopian world free from problems, but we live in a fallen world full of hatred and strife. This is why Jesus told his followers that they could find peace in following Him and His teachings with the warning that in this world, we would experience tribulation. However, Jesus did remind His disciples that he overcame the world, which occurred with his death, burial, and resurrection (John 16:33). The utopian world we seek will occur when Jesus returns to establish His millennial kingdom (Revelation 20:1-10). Until that time, believers, the Church, have a mission of taking the Gospel to the world (Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20).

 

Jeremiah is in Jerusalem and while there writes a letter to those in exile in Babylon (Jeremiah 29:1-3). This letter is a letter of instruction and encouragement, instructing the exiles to,

 

1)      Build houses and live in them, plant gardens and eat what they produce (Jeremiah 29:5-9) – The letter also instructs the exiles to take wives in Babylon and to have sons and daughters so their population can multiply and increase (Jeremiah 29:6). They are also to seek the welfare of the city they live in and pray on the city’s behalf (Jeremiah 29:7). The letter also instructs the exiles not to listen to the false prophets in Judah and Jerusalem for they are not prophets of the Lord (Jeremiah 29:8-9). In essence, the Lord is instructing the Jews in exile to live normal lives.

2)      Have hope (Jeremiah 29:10-14) – The Jews in exile knew they were not living in the land promised to them by God yet are instructed by God to live normal lives building houses, taking wives, having children, and multiplying their numbers. However, without any hope the exile will end would make this difficult, and why God reminds them that the exile will only last seventy years (Jeremiah 29:10). God reminds his people that exile is not their future but that God has a future bringing hope after they pray and return to God (Jeremiah 29:11-14).

3)      Not listen to the false prophets in Jerusalem (Jeremiah 29:15-23) – The reason for the exile is the sin of not making the Lord God thir only God but to have duplicitous worship of God through ritual and pagan gods (Jeremiah 25:4-7). The act of obediently going into exile involves turning one’s back on this duplicitous worship and turning to God while in exile. Those remaining in Judah and Jerusalem believe a loving God will not punish their duplicitous worship and return the items of worship to the Temple (Jeremiah 28:1-4). This listening to false prophets and remaining in Jerusalem instead of turning their backs to their duplicitous worship and disobedience to God in repentance has the consequences of sword, famine, and pestilence (Jeremiah 29:17).

 

The prosperity gospel teaches that those in Christ will have an abundant life of wealth and freedom from trouble (John 10:10). The error in this teaching is its shallow materialistic definition of abundant life for Jesus also warned his believers that they could have peace in Christ but not without tribulation (John 16:33). Abundant life in Christ is a life that has trouble in this world but the hope of eternal life (John 3:16). The Jews in exile are experiencing peace and even instructed to build houses while in exile and have children (Jeremiah 29:4-6). God also instructs them to pray and seek the welfare of the city in which they live while in exile (Jeremiah 29:7). Through Jeremiah, God is telling the Jews in exile that they will have peace in the middle of the tribulation of exile because of their obedience to God (Jeremiah 29:11). In contrast, those remaining in Judah and Jerusalem will suffer sword, famine, and pestilence due to their continued rebellion and lack of obedience to God’s instructions to go into exile (Jeremiah 24; 27; 28).

 

As Christians, we are ambassadors for Christ in a dark world of chaos, hatred, and tribulation (2 Corinthians 5:20). Christians are ambassadors of reconciliation to Christ, the one bringing peace because he overcame the world through his death, burial, and resurrection bringing reconciliation to God (2 Corinthians 5:16-19; Romans 10:9-10). This message of reconciliation is the Gospel message God’s people are to spread throughout the world (Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20). A covid dominated world in chaos needs God’s people to serve as ambassadors spreading this message of reconciliation.

 

Reconciliation to God begins when one decides to accept Jesus as their Savior. If you are reading this and have not prayed to accept Jesus as your savior, I invite you to do so now by praying with me,

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

May God challenge and bless those reading this post.