Letter to the American Church – Eric Metaxas: Review & Response

I begin this review and response with these words from Nehemiah, chapter four, verse fourteen: “Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and [fearlessly spoke the truth] to them, ‘Don’t be afraid of the enemy! [But confidently] Remember the Lord, who is great and [awesome], and [with courage from him] fight for your [friends, your families], your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!’ “ (NLT w/translation interpretations in brackets)

Eric Metaxas asks the question, “Would the American church have acted any differently than the German church [in the 1930s & 40s]”, leading up to the Hitlerian holocaust – the extermination of millions of Jews? The answer is, “No.” She’d like to think she would, but she is not. The American church today, like the German church then, has turned a blind eye to the cultural breakdown of our society. Does she has a duty to respond, to stand for truth? Absolutely!^[1] This is the premise of the book.

Metaxas explains that the American church (as a whole) is being gobbled up by the new cultural norms (e.g., abortion, transgenderism, homosexuality, critical race theory and the like). The American church needs to read the signs of a corrupt society. She must respond to the changing cultural norms and not simply conform. She must see the evil forces behind such things.^[2]

Dietrick Bonhoeffer (1906-1945), German Lutheran pastor, theologian and anti-Nazi dissident, writes in The Church and the Jewish Question (his response to the increasing hostility of Hitler towards Christian values): “The church [must be] the conscience of the state, call it into account – object when the state does wrong – not remain silent. The Christian, the church must help those who are victims of the state [those who cannot speak for themselves]. If the state refuses to change course, it is the solemn obligation of Christians to take action.”^[3]

Metaxas says the German church made four grave errors that led to a culture of silence. This culture led to the German church’s mistaken idea that they could somehow stand apart from the destructive, Nazi governmental demise of the nation’s soul. [When our American President proclaims that he is “fighting for the soul of America”, that should alarm us. The church should be extremely concerned, stand up and say something].

The leaders of the German church thought it better to mind their own business and stay out of politics; focus on faith, evangelism, “teaching the Bible” and living a quiet Christian life. The church’s silence on the tragic murder of millions of Jews, the church’s silence on the “cancel culture“ of their day, led to a cowardice end. Metaxas deals with these errors one by one:

Too many in the church were Christians in name only (cheap faith; cheap grace)
Evangelism became the sole endgame of the church (just talk about Jesus)
A “Do no harm” mentality meant, no political speak, be “inclusive” (silence)
Piety, avoiding sin, stood above civic engagement (separate secular from spiritual)^[4]

Metaxas says, “When the German Church in the 1930s and the American church of our day focuses on doctrinal statements but forgets that we are obliged to live out what we claim to believe, it makes a mockery of what God actually requires of us.” Bonhoeffer was calling the German church to repentance.^[5] Metaxas, in this book, is calling the American church to repent today – or we have learned nothing from history.

RESPONSE – REFLECTIONS:

When I began reading, Letter to the American Church, I was expecting and hoping for a “To Do“ list on how to impact our 21st-century culture. Ultimately there was no list. But by the middle of the book, it became clear to me what Metaxas was saying that I should do. I must be fearless and stand for the truth, God’s truth. I must seek after God for the holy boldness and courage that I might lack, to speak up. I said, “But Lord, I am only one.” God replied, “Yes, but you ARE one!” This Latin term came to my mind: “Acta Non Verba” (action not words).

I do not want, nor do I wish, to live a “safe faith,“ a mere intellectual assent to Christianity. I want to live a “Lionized Faith.“ I want to live with a bold faith in Christ. My commitment to evangelism should be more than just convincing someone to say a prayer. My evangelism must not be a milquetoast call to “join up”, being oh so careful not to offend anyone. I must proclaim the true cost of discipleship, the cost of following Jesus. I conclude again, Acta Non Verba! Speak the truth in love and do something, say something. Risk everything. Risk being misunderstood. But speak the truth of God without fear, leaving the results with our loving (not angry) God.

The great lies of our day are confused sexuality and transgender madness, the breakdown of the family unit. They are the Marxist critical race theory (CRT) being taught along with misguided lies about sexuality in our children’s classrooms. They are the lies being taught that carry a hateful undertone of racial bigotry, social justice and class warfare throughout our government, education system and even in many churches of America. Can we (can I) be silent in the face of this evil ideology? I cannot. I am only one… But I am one.

I will not be held bondage to the spirit of this age (Gal 5:1)^[6]. The strategy is clear:

I must speak.

I must speak truth.

I must speak truth fearlessly.

But how? When? However and whenever the opportunity arises (Acta Non Verba!). if I do not speak up and act, then I am condemned by God…Not necessarily to hell, but to the destruction of my culture. A destruction then of my own making.

Metaxas quotes Bonhoeffer (I make it personal): “[I must] live out [my] faith with every atom of [my] being in every second [I] have on this earth and with every breath God gives [me] to breathe. Anything less than this kind of faith is [no faith at all].^”[7] William H Johnson once proclaimed, “If it is to be, it is up to me!“Those ten words say it all.

Metaxas concludes, “Our Bible studies and sermons have all been meaningless if we do not make what we learned come alive in ways that are self-sacrificial and that show we really do know that God has defeated death. Many who do not yet know the God we claim to worship will see how we live and will want to know Him…come to know Him, and become a part of what He is doing in our generation. Dare we believe that, or are we already headed to the caves, believing nothing we do can matter…all we can do is save ourselves?”^[8]

I must proclaim for myself with Martin Luther of the German church, “Here I Stand.” I commit to God my personal strategy to speak the truth fearlessly, compassionately and convincingly when given the opportunity. Metaxas says that “truth is a person, Jesus Christ.“ I will speak and act as called upon, God willing, by the power of the Holy Spirit.

How does one lonely voice make a difference? By starting where I am, picking up whatever tool, using whatever platform God has given me and take every opportunity that comes my way to do as I am charged by Scripture to do: stand faithfully, watch vigilantly, pray earnestly, speak/act boldly (Isaiah 62:6; Nehemiah 4:16-18). I must act like the young shepherd boy David, when faced with Goliath. I must trust God. I am, like the Israelites, fearful and powerless without God. I must depend on God alone for the victory. David said, “I come in the name of the Lord.“ (1Samuel 17:46,47). I must be quick to the fight, fast with my sling and swift with my stones.

Pick up whatever God puts in your hands and get busy. I am a dad and a granddad – I can speak truth into the lives of my children and grandchildren. I don’t have endless financial resources, but I can use what I have to support others taking the fight where I cannot go. I am a writer and blogger. I can make my voice known to the glory of God and the impact of my culture. I can vote, I can speak for candidates who promote godly values, be they Christian or not, and do so no matter the personal cost to me. It is a simple strategy:

SPEAK TRUTH FEARLESSLY

“Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and [fearlessly spoke the truth] to them, ‘Don’t be afraid of the enemy! [But confidently] Remember the Lord, who is great and [awesome], and [with courage from him] fight for your [friends, your families], your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!’ “ (Neh 4:14).

^[1] Metaxas, Eric. Letter to the American Church, Washington D.C., Salem Books, (2022), pg. 18

^[2] IBID, pg. 35

^[3] IBID, pg. 39

^[4] IBID, pgs. 51, 52

^[5] IBID, pg. 64

^[6] “Christ has set us free! This means we are really free. Now hold on to your freedom and don’t ever become slaves of the Law again.” (Gal 5:1; AMP)

^[7] Metaxas, Eric. Letter to the American Church, Washington D.C., Salem Books, (2022), pg 126

^[8] IBID, pg. 128

Promise Made, Promise Kept

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Rely on God as a promise keeper (Heb 9:1,10,13–15; 8:7-12). #PromiseMadePromiseKept

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Understanding Covenants: there are five major covenants in the Bible initiated by and kept by God. Three required nothing in exchange for God’s promises (Noahic Cov – Gen 9:8-11; Abrahamic Cov – Gen 12:1–3; Davidic Cov – 2Sa 7:11–17). A fourth covenant (known as the Mosaic Covenant or “Old Covenant;” transmitted through the Old Testament) is heavily conditioned by and dependent upon faithful obedience (Exo 19:3-8). The last covenant is an expanded version of the Mosaic Covenant (it’s called the “New” Covenant (Jer 31:31–34).

The Mosaic Covenant lists conditions (Ten Commandments) to be followed and if not would become sin against God. The “New Covenant” (transmitted through the New Testament) fulfills the legal requirement of death for sin (“The wages of sin is death” – Rom 6:23) Jesus is the one who died, paid our penalty, to forgive all our sin. Lord I stand my sentry post knowing your reliability as a covenant keeping, promise keeping, God.

The Last Will and New Testament

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Walk secure in your inheritance of forgiveness by the sacrifice of Jesus (Heb 9:16-23). #LastWillAndTestament #HeirsToGod’sPromises

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

For a will to be put in force the testator must die. The Old Covenant (testament or will) of Moses was put in force by the symbolic death of a sacrificial animal. Its blood was sprinkled on everything in the Tabernacle. That was symbolic of the proof that there was a death. Therefore, all the promises of God (the testator) were assigned to the heirs of those promises. But these sacrifices were repeated habitually. They were symbolic of the reality to come. The testator himself had not yet died.

The “New” Covenant (testament or will) was not new, as in kind. It did not revoke the old. It is fully realized, explained, in Christ. It was put in force by the actual death of the testator. That is, Christ. Our sin is atoned and forgiveness is final. No more sacrifice is needed. The resurrection of Christ secures our eternal life. Lord, I am relying fully on the FINAL sacrifice of Christ (His blood shed on the cross) for forgiveness of my sin.

Heirs – What You Need To Know

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Live like the heir in Christ to God’s Kingdom that you are (Heb 9:16,17). #HeirToTheKingdom #EternallySecureInChrist

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

What is the nature of the New Covenant? The writer here defines what “Covenant“ means for us. It is NOT a contract or negotiated agreement between two parties. It’s meaning here is like that of a “WILL” (NLT). It is based on what one person (the TESTATOR), wishes to happen upon his/her death.

God in Christ is the TESTATOR here. He bequeaths to us, upon the death of his son, forgiveness and eternal life. The beneficiaries, heirs if you will, of this New Covenant (WILL) simply receive their inheritance. This is the meaning of the New Covenant. Lord, I want to live like an expectant heir.

Victorious Salvation

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Live in the victory of sin eternally forgiven through Christ (Heb 9:11–15). #ChristIsOurVictory #VictoryOverSinAndDeath #VictoryInJesus

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

“But Christ“…“So now Christ,“ have a ring of victory. Those words signal a change. The “rituals” of the Old Covenant are replaced with a “relationship” of righteousness with Christ. The death of Jesus on the cross was the final sacrifice for sin. His blood was spilled at Calvary. Our sin has been judged and atoned for.

Those who receive God‘s forgiveness may now enter freely into worship of the living God and receive the eternal inheritance promised them. Jesus opened the way forever into God‘s holy presence. Lord, I am made right with God by the blood spilled for me at Calvary; my victory is final in Jesus.

FREE!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Rejoice in your new found freedom in Christ (Heb 9:1–10). #FreedFromTheLawOfDeath #SavedByTheLawOfGrace

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

What this passage is pointing out is that the Old Covenant was never intended to absolve sin eternally. All it did, along with all its external symbolism, was to picture a better and more perfect redemption to come. That Redemption has now arrived in Christ.

The old is expanded by the new. The new fulfills the old. The old system of rules, rituals (focused on behavior) and a multitude of sacrifices was replaced. The new has come. It is a covenant of grace through the one sacrifice of Christ, the lamb of God who takes away sin forever. The focus is on a change of heart. Lord, you have freed me from the law of sin and death; I am a new man by the law of grace and life (Rom 8:1-4).

Symbols of Faith & Understanding

Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.

These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.

Christ As Seen In The Tabernacle

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May the study of God’s word be a lifetime ambition (Heb 5:14; 6:1,12). #StudyGodsWord #SeekUnderstandingFromGodsWord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When I consider all that the Old Testament Tabernacle signifies to the believer I am humbled. The scope, the breadth and depth of the Tabernacle’s analogy to our faith is extraordinary. The symbolism of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, represented as the message of Christ to all who believe, exceeds my understanding.

All the theological minds of Christendom have never nor will ever plumb the depths of God‘s word. Yet, its study also exceedingly satisfies the humblest, most limited efforts of any sincere inquiring soul. The challenge of the writer of Hebrews is to inspire study and understanding of faith in Christ. Father, your word gives this old sentry a lifetime of growth and understanding.

Symbols of Faith – High Priest (8 of 8)

#8 The High Priest

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Offer your life in service to Christ for his atoning sacrifice for us (Heb 9:6-15). #JesusOurAtonmentForSin

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The last symbol to speak of in the Tabernacle is the priesthood and the High Priest. It was required of the priests to tend to every facet of the Tabernacle. Every part of it is a reflection of Jesus Christ. It all points to sin, judgment, sacrifice and salvation.

In the New Covenant Jesus Christ is our eternal High Priest. He has offered his own blood as a sacrifice for sin, bearing all the judgment of sin on his back for all humanity. He himself is the sinless one who has atoned for our sin, entered into the holiest place in heaven and is now on his throne as our eternal mediator.

Lord, I am forever grateful for your atoning grace. What more could I offer than my own life in service to you.

Symbols of Faith – Mercy Seat (7 of 8)

#7 Ark of Covenant & Mercy Seat (Prt 2)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Open your heart, rely fully on God for the cleansing of sin. (Heb 9:4–11).

On top of the Ark of the Covenant was a lid called the Mercy Seat. It was made of solid gold. Two golden cherubim were attached to each end, facing each other with their wings stretched out to touch one another. This was the most sacred object in the tabernacle. This lid lay between the Law of God (stone tablets in the Ark) and God himself (Exo 25:10-22).

God met with Moses (later with the high priest) and spoke from the midst of the two cherubim. Annually (Day of Atonement) the high priest would sprinkle blood on the Mercy Seat from the sacrifices made for sin. It symbolized the sins of man as absolved. Just so, the blood of Jesus has cleansed us from all sin (Rom 3:25; 1Jhn 2:2).

Lord, thank you for cleansing away all my sin. “Your mercy endures forever” (Psalm 136).

Symbols of Faith – Ark of The Covenant (7 of 8)

#7 The Ark of Covenant & Mercy Seat (Prt 1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Humbly acknowledge God’s invitation to speak directly with him (Heb 9:4–11). #GodSpeaksWithMan #ApproachGodHumbly

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Behind the veil to the Holy of Holies rested the Ark of the Covenant & Mercy Seat (Exo 25:10–22). This was the last piece of furniture in the Tabernacle and it was the most sacred object in the Tabernacle.

The Ark was made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. In it was the Law of God (10 Commandments) carved on two stone tablets. It represented God‘s holiness. There was also a golden jar with manna in it. It represented God‘s provision for his people in the wilderness. Finally it contained Aaron’s staff upon which blossoms grew (a dead stick that bore fruit). This rod represented God’s authority given to man.

Taken all together the Ark represented God‘s presence, the place where God meets and speaks with man. Lord, I am humbled at the privilege of coming into your presence to speak with you.

Symbols of Faith – The Veil (Prt2) (6 of 8)

#6 THE VEIL (Prt 2)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Understand the cost of our redemption (Heb 9:3). #JesusDiedForOurSin #JesusIsTheDoorToLife

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The curtain (veil) between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (the Holy Holies) blocked access to God to all but the high priest. For the high priest access was limited to once a year, on the Day of Atonement. When Christ died on the cross this curtain was rent (torn) in two, representing the body of Christ, torn and crucified (Heb 10:19–22; Mat 27:51).

The wall of separation between God and man was torn down. Access through Christ, our High Priest, to a holy God was opened (6:18–20). We may now ourselves come confidently into God‘s presence at any time (4:16). Lord, I am grateful for the price you paid for my access to God; your torn and crucified body.

Symbols of Faith – The Veil (6 of 8)

#6 THE VEIL (Prt 1)

Three Veils, Three Doorways
Into God’s Presence

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Understand, appreciate what Jesus has done to open the door to a relationship with God (Heb 9:3). #WayTruthLife #JesusIsTheDoorToLife

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Three curtains (veils) are represented in the Tabernacle. Taken together, they all represent separation between God and man. There was only one entrance (gate or door) through each veil.

There was one door from outside the Tabernacle into the “Outer Court,” another from the Outer Court into the “Holy Place“ and a third from the Holy Place into the “Holy Holies.“ These doors represent Jesus who is the door to Salvation, the way of salvation (John 10: 7–11). Jesus has opened the way to intimate fellowship with God.

Lord, thank you for the sacrifice you made that I might experience a face to face relationship with Jehovah God.

Symbols of Faith – Altar of Incense (5 of 8)

#5 Golden Altar of Incense

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Rest secure in Christ for your acceptance before a holy God (Heb 9:3,4). #ChristOurEternalIntercessor #JesusEverLivesToInterceedForUs #AcceptedInTheBeloved

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The Golden Altar of Incense, altar of prayer, was located just outside the veil shielding the Holy of Holies.* Annually (on The Day of Atonement) the high priest, as mediator between God and the people, would stop at this altar and offer prayers. He sprinkled the Altar with the blood of sacrifices made for sin and confessed his sin, which made him acceptable to come into the presence of God in the Holy of Holies. Then he confessed the sins of the people.

The Altar was made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold symbolizing the humanity and divinity of Christ, our eternal intercessor (Heb 7:25; Jhn 17:17-20), [Jesus lives forever to intercede with God on [our] behalf].

Special incense was burned twice a day on this Altar. The aroma filled the room. The smoke of the incense rising was symbolic of prayers offered up to God. They were a sweet aroma to him (also note Rev 5:8; 8:3,4).

All of this symbolizes the blood sacrifice of Jesus offered up for our sin once for all time. As our mediator (1Ti 2:5), he prays for us. Further, he makes it acceptable to God for believers to enter into God’s presence and offer our own prayers and intercessions directly to him (Heb 4:16).

Lord, may I rest in the acceptable sacrifice you made for the forgiveness of my sin; for making my prayers in your name acceptable to God.

* There are questions about the translation here. The instructions of Exodus 30:6 and tradition locates the altar “before“ the veil shielding the Holy of Holies.

Symbols of Faith – Table of Shewbread (Prt 2) (4 of 8)

Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament no Jo system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.

#4 TABLE OF SHEWBREAD (Prt 2)

This Tabernacle furnishing may be the most intimate picture of God’s relationship to and concern with man, next to the Mercy Seat.

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Feed daily on the Bread of Life – Jesus (Heb 9:1,2). #JesusIsTheBreadOfLife

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The Table of Shewbread (in the Holy Place) was constructed of acacia wood and overlaid in gold (Exo 25:23–30; 40:22,23). The humanity of Jesus is pictured here buy the wood; His divinity pictured by the gold. Jesus is the god-man,. The bread, symbolizes God‘s presence and provision in my life. It reflects my life in Christ. I am sustained eternally by the life of Christ in me.

Jesus said, “I am the bread of life…I am the living bread come down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever” (Jhn 6:47-51). Just as the priests were invited to eat the Shewbread, so also I am invited to eat of the Bread of Heaven. Lord, I have tasted this bread of life and have entered into the sanctuaries of heaven in Christ.

Symbols of Faith – Table Of Shewbread (4 of 8)

#4 TABLE OF SHEWBREAD (Prt 1)

This Tabernacle furnishing may be the most intimate picture of God’s relationship to and concern with man, next to the Mercy Seat.

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Come to God’s table of fellowship; eat of the Bread of Heaven (Heb 9:1,2). #KnowGodsPresence #KnowGodsProvision

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The “Table of Shewbread“ stood in the Holy Place, opposite the Lampstand. Exodus 25:30 calls the showbread the “Bread of Presence” [the literal meaning is “face bread”]. The loaves’ shape (high sides, hollowed out in the middle) appeared to have many sides (or faces). It was a symbol of God’s presence.

Twelve loaves were prepared every week (never ending supply). The bread lay upon the table in two piles of six loaves in each. Taken together they symbolize the food that comes from God; his never ending provision for the twelve tribes of Israel as they journeyed in the wilderness. The priests ate of the bread in never ending supply. It further represents spiritual food derived from God’s Word.

Father, I recognize the intimacy of my relationship with you, symbolically, as I come to your table to eat. I receive a never ending supply of spiritual food from you in your Word.

Symbols of Faith – Brazen Altar (1 of 8)

#1 THE BRAZEN ALTAR

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Express profound gratitude to Jesus for the sacrifice he made for our sin (Heb 9:1–5,14,15). #JesusIsOurSacraficeForSin

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This passage explains in part the arrangement of the Jewish tabernacle rooms and furniture. In the outer room stood the bronze altar of sacrifice (Exo 27:1-8). Bronze is a symbol of sin. The altar was where only perfect animals were sacrificed for sin. A fire burned perpetually in the altar. It represented God’s judgment of sin.

The slain animals (a substitute for man) were consumed by fire as an atonement for sin – satisfying God’s judgment. Jesus was our perfect sacrifice for sin. He died on a cross (his Bronze Altar) in our place to satisfy God’s judgment against sin (Rom 3:25; 1Pe 2:24; 1Jh 2:1,2). Father, I am profoundly grateful for the sacrifice Jesus made for my sin – that I might be reconciled to you.

Change For Good

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Remain open to the inward change Christ brings (Heb 8:8–12). #GoodChange #ChangeForGood

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The writer of Hebrews has carefully explained how Christ is superior to angels, to Moses (the greatest prophet) and to the entire Jewish temple priesthood (Chs 1-7). All this necessarily means that the old covenant (system of laws and sacrifices) must give way to the new and superior covenant (where mercy and grace prevail). The prophet Jeremiah predicted this and our writer quotes the entire passage to make the point (Jer 31:31-34).

These Hebrew Christians, and we today, needed to understand that Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross changed everything about the Jewish system of laws and rules. God would seek to change all men’s hearts and not just their behavior. Men would follow God out of love and not out of fear. This is not a matter of denying the old, but of explaining it with a new understanding. That is what the Tabernacle symbolism is all about.

Lord, what this old sentry wants is to understand what is mine in Christ and continue growing in that grace.

A New & Better Way

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May we be deeply moved by the person of Christ (Heb 8:1-6).#ANewAndBetterWay

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The Old Covenant was implicit – it implied a once for all sacrifice to come, an eternal and perfect priesthood to come, unlimited access to God to come, and eternal forgiveness to come. In Christ came the New Covenant – his sacrifice for sin, his priestly ministry as perpetual and eternal, his forgiveness and cleansing from sin.

Jesus Christ made explicit what the old system of ceremonial laws, sacrifices and priestly service only foreshadowed implicitly. Jesus fulfilled the Old Covenant, replacing it with a New and better Covenant. Lord, this old sentry is renewed and left deeply affected with awe and reverence for what Christ has accomplished.

“That All There Is?”

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May we grasp the realities of symbols pointing to heavenly promises (Heb 8:1-6). #IsThatAllThereIs #ThereIsMore #BeyondTheVeil

God told Moses, *“Build it according to the pattern I gave you.”*

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Men contemplate, “Is there something more, something beyond our physical sight?” This world is so temporary. Things change. Nothing remains the same. Thoughtful men ask, “Is this all there is?“ That is what the writer of Hebrews is getting at. There is more!

There is a spiritual, perfect and perpetual reality beyond this world. It is pictured in the Old Covenant. It is pictured in the tabernacle of Moses (and later the temple built by David). These were intended as a pattern, a shadow of heavenly reality where Christ ministers as man’s mediator, in the true place of worship. It is not a place built by frail temporal human hands.

Lord, this aging sentry can see/understand the living permanent reality of a perpetual priest serving in a final and perpetual reality, beyond the veil of my vision.

Guaranteed Secure

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Rest securely in Jesus for your eternal salvation, nor take it for granted (Heb 7:23–28) #JesusSecuresOurEternalDestiny #JesusOurGuarantee #SecureInJesus

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jesus, our perpetual High Priest, guarantees our eternal salvation. He saves “continually“ and unto the “uttermost“ those who have believed on him (vv24,25).

There has not been a high priest in Judaism since the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem in ‘69–‘70 AD. But the believer is and has never been (will never be) without a high priest.

Jesus is in heaven, in the Holy place making intercession for every believer always and forever (Phi 2:9–11; Heb 4:14; 10:12). He was the sinless, righteous sacrifice made once for all time for all men (vv26,27). Lord, my eternal destiny is secure in the capable hands of my High Priest, Jesus. I do not take for granted the price he paid for that.

Open Door of Hope

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Grasp and hold on to the hope you have in Christ (Heb 7:18–22). #PeaceWithGod #JesusABetterWay #LawVsGrace #OpenDoorToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The law of (the system of, demands of) righteousness was set aside to find its perfection, it’s realization, in Jesus Christ…in Grace. The law gave no one any hope of communion with God. God can no more be a friend to me through the law than a punitive justice system can reach out to an inmate and give redemptive healing to a broken life.

Jesus introduces a better hope. He brings hope and the open door through which I may enter into a redemptive relationship with God (v19). This is the great hope of the Christian faith. Lord, my hope (the hope of my beloved nation) in this life, and the life to come, is in Jesus – he is the promise; the peace, forgiveness, joy and redemption of God.

One Great Hope

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Find your hope in the perfect sufficiency of Christ as redeemer (Heb 7:15-17) #JesusPriestForever

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jesus Christ is here declared a “priest forever” of a different kind (revealed by the likeness of Melchizedek in Gen 14:17-20 and Heb 6:19,20). How is Christ different?

1) Christ is from a different tribe – the tribe of Judah unlike those of the tribe of Levi (v14).

2) Christ is a priest forever, whereas the old system of priests required new priests to replace those who died (vv3,18,23-25).

3) Christ is holy and blameless, unstained by sin (v26), unlike other High Priests who needed cleansing from sin (vv27,28).

4) Christ’s authority is established by an oath given by God (vv20,21). Jesus Christ is a High Priest forever (Psm 110:4).

Lord my one great hope is in your perfect sufficiency as mediator between God and man.

New Day Dawning

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Embrace the far better hope established in Christ Jesus (Heb 7:11- 20). #JesusOurEternalHighPriest #LawOfWorksOut #LawOfGraceIn

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In this passage, the writer makes it clear that the Law and the priesthood of the Law were never intended as a way of works to achieve right standing with God. These were always intended as a foreshadowing of a better hope (vv18,19; Gal 3:23-26).

The priesthood is shown as temporal and replaced by a perpetual, eternal, Priesthood (Christ Jesus). So also the Law was imperfect as to the redemption of man. It was intended as an outward expression of the inner change required for redemption. A new law of Grace was put in the place of the demands of righteousness (Jhn 1:17; Rom 3:21,22; 6:14).

Lord, I see here the sun setting on the Law of righteous demands and the dawn risen on the law of Grace.

Qualified Mediator

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Humble yourself before Christ as your redeemer/priest & king eternal (Heb 7:4–10). #ChristOurMediator #ChristOurHighPriest

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The writer here continues his comparison of Melchizedek to Jesus as an Old Testament type of Christ. His readers must understand this. Melchizedek was not of the tribe of Levi. There was not as yet a Levite born. Levi was still a seed in Abraham’s loins. One could say that when Abraham gave a tithe to Melchizedek (a right of the Jewish priestly class, by the Law of Moses), Levi himself was giving a tithe.

When Abraham received a blessing from Melchizedek, Levi was also, in essence, receiving that blessing. The writer concludes, the lesser one gives to and receives from the greater one. Melchizedek points to the coming Christ who qualifies as our Redeemer, Priest & King. Lord, I humble myself before Christ as my mediator/priest and king eternal.

See “Jesus Sinless Mediator” on this blog.

Jesus Sinless Mediator

Absolutely Persuaded

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May you be fully persuaded that Christ is your Redeemer-King (Heb 7:1-3). #FullyPersuaded #SalvationIsInChristJesus

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

What does this king, Melchizedek, in the Old Testament prove to these doubting Jewish believers? Several things: He was a king. He was a priest outside the line of Aaron or Abraham. His name, Melchizedek, means “righteousness.” He ruled in Salem (ancient city of Jerusalem). The name means “peace“). He was a king of righteousness who ruled in peace. This is a type of Christ.

Melchizedek blessed Abraham and Abraham paid a tithe to him, showing him greater than Abraham. He is said to remain a priest forever (no ancestry is recorded – no beginning or end). The Genesis account, written by the great prophet Moses, attributed to him the office of priest of the Most High God (Gen 14: 17–20). He foreshadows the coming Christ (Psm 110:1-4). Even Paul, the consummate Jewish believer, was fully persuaded of Christ’s authenticity (2Ti 1:12-14).

Lord, from these accounts I (anyone) may be fully assured, according to God‘s word, that Jesus Christ is who he claimed to be. I am fully persuaded!

GET YOUR JOY ON!

Anchor Man

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Hope in Jesus who anchors your soul in the bedrock promises of God (Heb 6:19,20). #JesusIsTheAnchorOfMySoul #MyAnchorHolds

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jesus is the anchor of my soul. The anchor may be one of the most iconic symbols of early Christianity (next to the cross). My soul is the ship sailing on the seas of life. Jesus anchors my soul to the bedrock of God’s promises. My hope, my faith, is the chain that secures my soul to the Anchor.

The anchor, cast into the sea is unseen beneath the water. Jesus, my Anchor, has been cast upwards behind the veil into the Holy of Holies (Heb 1:3; 4:14). There he secures for me the promises of God.* I am there, hid with Christ in God (Col 3:1-4) and forever inextricably secured by him. Jesus is my Anchor, man.

Lord, my hope is built on nothing less then Christ who is my eternal anchor.*

_______

* Hymn: My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less [than Jesus] (especially verses two and three)

V2 When darkness veils his lovely face, I rest on his unchanging grace; in every high and stormy gale,my anchor holds within the veil.

V3 His oath, his covenant, his blood, support me in the whelming flood; when all around my soul gives way, he then is all my hope and stay.

Inextricably Secure

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Embrace Christ as your trusted redeemer (Heb 6:19,20). #TrustedRedeemer #AnchorOfTheSoul #JesusIsOurTrustedAnchor #JesusIsOurRefuge

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Three beautiful images of Christ close this section of Hebrews. Jesus is the REFUGE to whom we have fled for protection. With confidence we hold to him in the hope of things to come.

Jesus is an ANCHOR to our soul. He has been cast on the mercy seat of God behind the veil, in the Holy of Holies. There he holds fast to the promises of God on our behalf – we are inseparably tethered to him in those promises.

Jesus is a FORERUNNER, our advance guard. He has gone before us clearing the way for our entrance into the promised Hope of God. Lord, there could be no more clear descriptions of my inextricably secure place in Christ.

Bedrock Truth

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Trust fully in the promises of God (Heb 6:16–19a). #BedrockTruth #Soul’sAnchor

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

What is the bedrock of our hope in Christ (v11)?

1) There is evidence that God keeps his promises (vv13–15);

2) It is impossible for God to lie. His nature is truth (like water is wet).

Two things are certain and unchanging: God’s promises and the veracity of his pledge to keep his promises.

Our hope is in Jesus who is anchored to the these bedrock truths. We may have perfect confidence in this anchor of our soul’s security. Lord, my hope in Christ is secure in the truth, the veracity, of God‘s word.

No Foolin’

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May you endure by faith and patience to receive the promises of God (Heb 6:13-15). #StandFast #BelieveForThePromise #NoFoolin

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When God swears an oath by his name I may certainly count on it to happen. Those Hebrew Christians reading this transcript were moving towards the future return of Christ. But they were struggling to endure, to remain alert (vv11,12).

God assured these believers that he keeps his promises. An example from history makes the point. Abraham, by faith, patience and endurance received God’s promise of a son [and many descendants] (Gen 22:16-18; Rom 4:18ff). Though God tarries, I may stand fast assured of receiving his promise – the blessing of Christ’s return (10:35,36).

Intentional Grounding

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be intentionally grounded in faith and ministry; secure hope in Christ (Heb 6:12,13). #BeGroundedInFaith #KnowTheWordOfGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Note the warnings and encouragements given to some floundering Hebrew Christians in Hebrews 5:11–6:10 [Be Intentionally Grounded in faith – grow up, mature in faith, strive to understand Scripture, pursue God‘s purpose, stay alert to error and disbelief, walk steadfast in God’s mission, encourage others in faith and engage in ministry to others]. These things will prevent spiritual dullness and indifference.

This kind of intentional faith and endurance is in the tradition of the many faithful ones who have gone before these and all other believers. They all received the promises of God. Lord, my great hope in Christ is realized in direct proportion to my growth and maturity in faith and engagement with ministry (v11).