Indomitable Faith

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Put your faith in the veracity of God’s promises (Heb 11:22).#Faith #BelieveGodsPromises

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Joseph, when he was about to die, instructed his family to carry his remains with them when they went into the land promised them by God. The people of Israel were still held as slaves in Egypt when he spoke those words (Gen 50:24,25).

In spite of Joseph‘s circumstances he believed God would fulfill his promise to his people. He did not get in on it, but he saw it from a distance (v13). In the same way, believers today stand in the tradition of promise. Just as God delivered on his promises to Israel he will surely deliver on his promises to us.

Lord, it thrills the heart of this old sentry to live by indomitable faith in the fulfillment of God’s promise of a future home in heaven.

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

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.

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!

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.

Crippling Faith

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION.

Be alert to error leading to beliefs that cripple the faith (Heb 6:4–6). #BeAlert #CripplingFaith

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Following the clear challenge to these mostly Jewish readers to grow up into maturity in Christ (vv1–3), the writer sounds a terse warning. Some believers in Christ, due to a lack of understanding and growth, were in danger of turning their backs on Christ and returning to a Jewish system of works for salvation. When one becomes unconcerned with their sin there is a catastrophic disconnect with God. Hearts are in danger of becoming hardened towards repentance.

Their apostate beliefs essentially put Christ to open shame again by their public disrespect of him and their hardened hearts toward God. Their influence puts the church in danger of division and confusion, crippling her effectiveness. They would be judged harshly for this by God (3:12–19; 6:7,8). Lord, may I be alert to anything that cripples my faith and leads me off the path of abundant life.

Note the similar warning posted on this blog below

Rest Ahead

Applied Learning

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION.

Continue to read, grow and apply God‘s Word to your life (Heb 6:1– 3). #AppliedLearning #ReadStudyApplyGodsWord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I once heard a pastor say, to the effect, believers who are floundering ought to sit and read large portions of Scripture at a time. Doing this for a short period would re-introduced them to the language and content of Scripture. The writer of Hebrews seems to be taking that approach with these believers. They have learned but not been building upon their basic instruction.

Our writer says, rather than re-teach the basics, God willing, he would go on with further instruction. The point is that believers must continue to build on their faith and grow, applying the Scriptures. Lord I look forward with anticipation to coming daily before you with an open Bible, an open mind and an open heart.

Grow Up!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION.

May you continue growing up into maturity in Christ (Heb 5:11–14; 6:1-3). #GrowingUpInChrist #MaturingInChrist

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Reading this passage makes me think the writer of Hebrews becomes newly aroused at the lack of growth, maturity and understanding of his readers. He asks, “How long have you been believers? Are you still so immature in your understanding? You should be teaching others the truths I’m teaching you.”

He goes on, “You have grown up with the Hebrew scriptures. You have experienced the abundant life in Christ pictured in the Jewish sacrificial system.” He challenges them to move past pablum, the basics of faith and on to solid food, maturity in faith.

Lord, having walked almost 70 years in faith, I still desire to keep growing, learning more and maturing in my faith.

Comprehending The Incomprehensible

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION.

Be open to God’s incomprehensible love & grace (Heb 4:14-16). #NoLoveLikeGod’sLove #IncomprehensibleLoveMadeBelievableInChrist

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God has made his incomprehensible love believable to us by the life and work of Jesus Christ.

1) The word of God convicts of sin (4:12).

2) The Living Word, Jesus, is the one to whom every man will give an account (4:13).

3) Jesus also understands man’s every weakness and frailty – he himself has lived as a man and faced every life challenge just as we have, but without sin (4:14,15).

4) Jesus extends mercy and grace to all men that they might know redemption (4:16).

Some have believed God knows our needs but does not care. Others have believed God neither knows nor cares. Neither is true. Jesus is God in the flesh. He lived and walked among us. He has made God’s incomprehensible love believable. As such, he has pierced the veil between God and man so that man might know that God is for us. (Psm 56:9; 118:6; Rom 8:31).

Lord, This old sentry is overwhelmed by your incomprehensible love and grace.

The Book of Books

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION.

May we be open to the searching examination of God’s Word in our lives (Heb 4:12). #GodsWordIsASword #GodsWordIsAliveAndPowerful

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

There is nowhere found in Scripture a more majestic or definitive description or characterization of the Word of God than Hebrews 4:12. Here is what it says…

God‘s word is alive, pulsating with life.

It is powerful, energizing the very being in the life of men.

It cuts through every façade and pierces through every defense of self-righteousness.

It sifts through and exposes every thought and intention of man.

God’s word is like a mirror (Jas 1:22-24). It reveals who we really are at the core of our being.

Lord, thank you for how your Word spoke to this aged sentry on Dec 28, 1968 -Powerful- Changed my life. Your Word is the Book of all books. It changed my life.

May we have a fresh vision of the exalted role of your Word in the heart of America.

May we have a clear understanding of the role of God’s Word in our national life and leadership.

Fearless Courage

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be fearless and courageous for God‘s truth (Jer 15:19–21). #Fearless #Courageous #StandForTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah bears a gentle but straightforward rebuke from God. “Stop feeling sorry for yourself Jeremiah.“ God challenges Jeremiah to “man up,“ speak truth for God and trust him for the results. In doing this Jeremiah would influence many (more than he knew) and he would not be influenced by them.

Barnes’ Notes – “Flattering prophets will perish with those whom their soft speeches [have led astray]. But those faithfully speaking the truth of God will save them both.“ Lord, I am inspired to stand faithful in/for your truth, to fear no man’s actions against me.

Against The Tide

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Stand fearlessly for the truths of God (Jer 15:10,11). #AgsinstTheTide #FearlesslyDevotedToTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Having heard God‘s response to the prayers of God‘s people (which was, God would not listen), Jeremiah dives headlong into a lament of his own with God. “I should have died at birth. It is such sorrow, depressing, to be hated by everyone, everywhere. I have done nothing to deserve the ire of everyone, yet they all curse me.“

Sometimes the man or woman of God must stand alone against the tide of unrighteousness. It is not an enviable position. But, stand you must, if you are to honor God. It is not you the people curse. It is (heaven forbid) God and his truth. God will see you through. In the end they will seek you to plead their case (v11).

Majestic Might

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May my beloved nation see, acknowledge and know the manifest power and glory of Jehovah God (Psm 68:28-35). #God’sMajestyAndPower #ShowUsGod’sGlory

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Oh, you holy ones of God, summon the might and power of God to our world. Pray for God’s majesty to be revealed to the nations. Pray for those enemies of God and his holy ones to be brought low and bow in recognition of the magnificent one who rides (dwells) in the most high and honored heavens; whose voice thunders (resonates) from above.

Sing To He Who Rides The Highest Heavens

This is the God (Jehovah) whose light and glory shines down on his holy ones. He strengthens those who call upon him in the day of trouble. Lord, as the Psalmist so prays for his countrymen, so this sentry prays for his beloved nation and countrymen.

Reckless Conspiracy

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Humbly surrender your heart to God’s lordship (Jer 11:9–17). #GodlySorrow #Repentance #TurnToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The reforms of king Josiah (2Ch 34) were short-lived. The people secretly conspired to rid themselves of God’s oversight. They soon returned to their idolatries and immoral lives. Now the pagan idols and altars thought to save them would become their very downfall (v12).

“Do not pray for them Jeremiah” (also 7:16; 11:14). Judgment is on the way. The beautiful olive tree of God’s planting (Israel) will suddenly be destroyed for its rejection of God’s leadership. The nation that rejects God will suffer the consequences. Lord, may we in America, as a people, have humble hearts willing to repent and return to you.

Consider: America is not Judah. She is not a theocracy. Judah’s judgment is not America’s judgment. But America was founded upon Judeo Christian principles (biblical principles) of freedom and liberty. America has been blessed by God because of this. For her to conspire against and turn her back on God will bear no less consequences in judgment. Of this she may be certain. I pray God send revival in the church and awakening in the land.

I do not pray for nor wish for any ill will toward any one person or group of people invested in the political system of America. In fact I pray for their redemption who do not know nor honor God. But I do pray for the absolute destruction of any ideology that conspires against God. I pray that lies and deceit would be exposed and that truth, honor, and respect for God be elevated.

Timeless Benediction

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND

May you know and rest in the timeless assurance of God (Jud 1:24,25; Heb 4:3). #ToGodAscribeAllPowerAndMajesty

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Here is a benediction that the apostle Paul would be proud of (see Paul’s benediction Rom 16:25). “All glory to God“ who stands watch over the souls of his called out ones. He will deliver them “faultless“ into his very holy presence (Eph 5:27).

“All glory to God“ who alone has rescued us in Christ Jesus our Lord from an eternal hell. “All glory to God“ for his timeless greatness/splendor, his power and authority – that is “before all time, in this present time and beyond times and times to come.“ In these last days, awaiting Christ return, we may rest confidently in our God.

Lord, words fail this aged sentry to express my trust in your absolute power and majesty. But it is where my soul comes down to rest, even “the rest of God (Heb 4:3). What a blessed and timeless benediction!

Do The Unexpected

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Treat those antagonistic towards the faith with Mercy and Prayer (Jud 1:22,23). #Mercy #TheUnexpected

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

How do I treat and pray for those who malign faith in Christ and the biblical values I hold dear? Do the unexpected thing. Be merciful towards others whose faith is faltering; rescue those who have gone to the dark side. But do so cautiously, hating the sin and not getting caught up in their departure from faith. Galatians 6:1 comes to mind.

Certainly praying for those who malign the faith is implied here and made clear in Luke 6:28. As hard as it may be, pray for those who live and think contrary to you. Do the unexpected thing. Pray for them. Over time your attitude towards them will change. Mercy will kick in. Lord, create in me a desire to act mercifully towards those who have faltered or left the faith and to pray for them.

A Gibraltar Faith

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Stand fast in your faith; encourage the faithful (Jud 1:17–21). #StandFastInFaith #EncourageTheFaithful

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

So, what are the sentry’s standing orders in these “last days,“ in the face of those who make a mockery of biblical values and live a hedonistic lifestyle, who create division and who do not live by the Spirit of God? Jude answers: Be strengthened in the faith (have a “Gibraltar“ sized faith).

Build one another up who do follow God faithfully. Be prayerful for each other (and those who deny the faith). Look forward to the merciful coming of Christ and eternal life. Thus you will stay safe in the saving, keeping grip of God‘s love. Lord, make of this old sentry a Gibraltar of faith to my friends and family. May I work tirelessly to encourage the faithful in my orbit of influence.

PRAYING FOR YOU WHO ARE

READING THIS BLOG TODAY

Standing Against Evil & Deceiving Spirits

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Seek first the rebuke of God against deceiving spirits and evil authority in this world (Jude 1:5-11). #StandingAgainstSatan #StandingAgainstDeceivingSpirits

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jude 1:9 presents an interesting account of a dispute between Michael the Archangel and Satan over the body of Moses. Nothing further is known about this specific account. Any explanation is conjecture. What we do know is that when Moses died, God buried him (Deu 34:5-8).

We also know that there is a mighty war being waged against evil in this world (2Co 4:3,4; 1Jn 5:19). The war against evil is also being waged in spiritual realms as well (Dan 10:12-14).

I take the Bible at its word. I believe it to be the inspired, inerrant word of God. I accept Jude’s account at face value. Read verse nine in context (vv5-11). After some study and prayer, this is my humble conclusion about Jude’s account:

Even the Archangel of Heaven, Michael, does not take matters into his own hands when dealing with those who have authority (bestowed or otherwise). Even satanic authority.

Michael doesn’t call Satan names. He doesn’t make accusations. He doesn’t command decrees. He doesn’t pronounce any curses. HE CALLS FORTH THE REBUKE OF GOD against the archenemy enemy of Christ. “The Lord rebuke you.” This same prayer is used against Satan in Zech 3:1,2 where he is the accuser of Yeshua, God’s High Priest (See note at the bottom*).

Herein lies a key weapon in the battle against deceiving spirits and evil authority in this world or in the church. PRAYER! Prayer that calls forth the the LORD of Hosts, the Mighty Commander of Heaven’s Armies to fight our battles.

PRAYER is a powerful and mighty weapon against evil. PRAYER, calling forth God’s intervention, will bring down all the mighty, all the corrupt, all the arrogant, all the perverted and (in this text) all the apostate. Prayer for God’s intervention into the affairs of men and the affairs of the church is the first plan of action, not a last resort. God will fight your battles (Exo 14:14). This is what I believe to be the point of Jude 1:9.

Jude is saying, in context, to this old sentry that I must be alert to apostate teachers (or any other deceitful authority), alert to the evil they represent. I must not be drawn into their web of deceit and assassination of the truth of the Gospel. BUT IN PRAYER, CALL ON THE POWERS OF HEAVEN TO INTERVENE. This is how I should respond first to those in any seat of authority. Then follow God’s counsel from there.

* Little is known about Jude’s accounting of the argument between Michael and Satan. But the phrase “The LORD rebuke you” is used elsewhere (eg. Zech 3:1-4). That should signal some thoughts of validation in Jude. My study of the Zechariah passage reveals to me that the prophet had a vision of the high courts of Heaven. The High Priest, Joshua [or Yeshua – symbolic of Christ], is standing before the LORD. Satan is at his side accusing him. “And the LORD said to Satan, ‘I, the LORD [rebuke you], I reject your accusations, Satan. Yes, the LORD, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebukes you.’”

But it is not the sin of the High Priest in Zechariah’s passage that is represented here. It is all the sin of Israel, as it were, represented in him, and what befalls the nation, that is the image here. The “filthy clothes” of the High Priest is the familiar symbol of sin before God; and he wears it, just as he wore his sacerdotal dress before God, in his official capacity.

The High Priest was the embodiment of the nation. He stands before the judgment seat, bearing not his own but the people’s sins. This is a for-shadowing of our High Priest, Christ Jesus. He stands bearing all the sin, all the filth, of the world on the cross at Calvary. He is our substitution. He would die for our sin, be buried with our sin, then be raised from the dead cleansed from all our sin and clothed in robes of righteousness. This Christ did for all of mankind. HALLELUJAH!

It is for Satan’s accusations of the Son of Man, our High Priest; it is for Satan’s defiance of truth, that the Scriptures announce…

“The LORD rebuke you Satan.”

Comments Welcome

One Immutable Truth

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Hold fast to the truth, that one “faith” entrusted to you (Jude 1:3). #OneFaith #DefendTheFaith

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jude further explains “the faith“ I am to defend. It is that faith “entrusted once for all time to God’s people.“ This “faith“ is the one eternal truth given in the gospel – that Christ lived a sinless life and became the sinless sacrifice for all men. In his death he satisfied God’s righteous anger against sin. Christ died that our sin be forgiven. He was buried and raised from the dead to secure men’s eternal life (1Co 15:1-4).

There may be different denominations, but there is only one “faith.” That is the Gospel of Jesus Christ, given “once for all time“ [its chiseled in stone]. Those who claim some “new truth” are false teachers (liars) and lead men away from the truth. Lord, my confidence rests in the sole immutable truth of the Gospel.

“This We’ll Defend”

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Defend the principles of the Gospel from all attacks (Jude 1:3). #DefendTheFaith

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I am called to duty, to “defend the faith.” John MacArthur explains this “faith.“ He says, “It’s not describing a subjective act of faith; it’s referring to the content of Christianity, the Gospel, the whole body of doctrine that makes up Gods revelation.” Believers (I) have a duty to defend this “FAITH“ from any false teaching that would minimize its effect or impact.

The U.S. Army motto is, “This We’ll Defend.” What is that? It’s not subjective acts of freedom; it is the content, the whole doctrine of “LIBERTY” and what that means to America, even to the world. The soldier is called upon to defend that liberty from all aggressors.

In the same way, I am called upon to “defend the faith” and all that it means to those who have believed and will believe the Gospel.

Lord, THIS I WILL DEFEND!

What Will Transform A Nation?

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Seek to experience and live out the transforming power of the Gospel (Jude 1:1). #TransformingPower #TheGospelTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jude is considered to be, along with James his brother, a half brother to Jesus. This is interesting in that at one point these brothers were both skeptics (Jhn 7:3–5), thought Jesus was mentally off (Mrk 3:21). Yet, we find them in the Upper Room with their mother, Mary (mother of Jesus) at Pentecost after the resurrection (Acts 1:14).

Jude humbly recognizes his true place in the life of Christ – “a servant.” He and his brother James went from skeptics to leaders in the early church. This is nothing short of the transforming power of the Gospel. Lord, my faith to continue to pray and witness rests in the power of the Gospel to transform people and nations.

Lying Lips

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May our lips know only the truth; may we be discerning of truth (Jer 9:3-9). #TellTheTruth #WhereAreTheTruthTellers

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In the larger scheme of things, it seems like “lying” would be way down on the list of things that offend God. But lying is an abomination to God (Pro 12:22). Judah, God’s people, were slanderous, stood against the truth, were untrustworthy, defrauding, scheming and conniving against friends and family. They were good at lying, stacking lie upon lie and refused to acknowledge God. God asks, “How can I not bring judgment on this behavior?”

People often have a problem with telling the truth (not just politicians). We lie because it is in our nature to lie. Lying is the way we deflect blame and responsibility for our own sin and wrong doing. We lie to give ourselves the advantage. Our lies will often mean someone else is intentionally harmed. Lies deny others the benefit of knowing the truth. How will God not judge any nation that breeds a culture of lying? Lord, may my lips know only truth.

Terror & Crime Watch

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Listen to God and fear not to speak truth and grace into culture (Jer 6:22-26). #repent #TurnNowToGod #TimeIsRunningOut

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

America should learn the lesson of Judah. Part of God‘s judgment on his rebellious people was invasion, terrorism, cruel and merciless violence. People were afraid to travel across town or across the nation. Where is the security? Lawlessness and plunder rule the day. Like a woman giving birth – the pain is intense but no one comes to her aid (note 4:31).

America today stands in these crosshairs of judgment. Will she mourn and weep bitterly for the good times lost? Or will she weep bitter tears of repentance for sin against God? Lord may we have the courage to stand for you, to convey your message of truth and grace. Lord, give my beloved country a spirit of repentance.

The Path To Peace

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Walk in the way of the godly who have gone before you (Jer 6:16). #TheAncientPath #WalkInTheGodlyWay

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God is not a capricious God. He is not a god who plays guessing games – you guess wrong, you lose. God is a good and understanding God. He makes clear what he expects. He is clear about what path to take.

There are two paths in life. Look carefully at both. One is the path of the ancients, the godly and righteous path. Choose this path, no matter what the other path offers. The well worn path of the godly will always take your soul to a place of rest and peace. This is the path about which Jesus spoke in Matthew 7:13,14. Lord, lead me always in the way everlasting.

(Also note Isaiah 30:20,21)

“Admit It And Quit It!”

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Come clean with God for your sin (Jer 2:26). #AdmitItAndQuitIt #Incorrigible #Repent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Like the thief who never feels shame…until he is caught, is Judah before God (v26). They say, “Oh no, it wasn’t me“ (vv23,35). INCORRIGIBLE! The facts (pesky facts) of their abandonment of God prove otherwise (vv27–32). I am afraid that I myself am guilty of this all too often. Aren’t we all?

Like the cat who ate the canary, the kid who is caught with his hand in the cookie jar, there is no denying Judah’s guilt of sin. Nor my guilt of sin. On my best day I am prone to sin. Rather than deny it, I need to own it. “Admit it and quit it,“ as someone once said. Lord give this sometimes wandering sentry the honesty to own his sin, confess it and receive your grace and mercy.

My Life Book On God’s Coffee Table

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May your life be a beautifully painted landscape unto the Lord (Jer 2:20–25). #CoffeeTableLegacy

Prairie Church, Leadville, Colorado (RWHollar)

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Many are the visions given to Jeremiah which paint pictures of Judah’s apostasy. These word pictures make clear her sin.

Judah is like the beast that has broken off the yoke that bound her to God, to follow after other lesser gods (v20). She is the fruitful vine that had grown wild and corrupt, producing no fruit (v21). She is depicted as linen with stains so bad nothing could remove the stains (v23). She is shown as a wild donkey in heat. She chases nonstop one lesser God after another for intimate relations (v24,25).

I ask myself, if God painted pictures of how I look to him, would it be worthy to be on his coffee table? Lord it is my desire that my life become a beautifully painted landscape onto you.

Scripture Points To God’s Glory

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Savor the value and sweetness of Scripture as witness to God’s glory (Psm 19:7–11). #SweeterThanHoney #LifeGivingInstruction #GodsWord #MoreValuableThanGold

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

A psalm of David – he gives thoughtful consideration to God‘s revelation of himself through Scripture. God‘s word is perfect, trustworthy, accurate, clear and true. God‘s word revives the soul, makes one wise and brings joy. It gives insight for living, is fair, gives warning and reward for obedience.

God‘s word is highly desirable, more valuable than gold. It is sweeter than pure honey to the soul. God‘s word points me to his glory and leads me to eternal admiration for him. Lord, I look to your word for life-giving instruction and knowledge of you.

Heavens Declare God’s Glory

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

See and give thanks to God for nature’s witness to his glory (Psm 19:1-6). #TheHeavensDeclareGodsGlory

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

A song with David – the psalmist gives careful thought to God‘s revelation of himself in nature. The skies overhead proclaim God‘s glory. Daily the skies open up over every nation – good and evil. God reveals himself every day in the beauty of the heavens and in the vast expanse of the cosmos (Rom 1:19,20).

God paints the skies at sunrise and sunset. Even when no one is there to observe it, God paints. The sun follows its course. Men set their watches, their calendars and seasons according to God‘s courses above. Oh Lord, though the eyes of this sentry grow dimmer by the day, let them take in all your glory and goodness in the natural world around me.

Listen For God’s Voice

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Enlist and heed the words of mature godly voices (Zph 1:1). #GodlyVoices #ListenForGod’sVoice

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The young Josiah takes the throne as King of Judah. He was eight years old. The country is in terrible spiritual decline. There was much complacency and no sorrow for sin. A prophet, Zephaniah, appears on the scene.

Zephaniah is an older relative of Josiah. He was a descendent of Hezekiah, Josiah’s great grandfather. Not sure exactly when Zephaniah ministered, but he helped to fan the flames of religious revival during Josiah‘s reign. He was no doubt a tremendous help and influence on the young king. Lord, this old sentry is always in need of mature godly voices to speak into my life.