The rooms of the people

The rooms of the people

Scripture: Then he brought me into the outer court. There I saw some rooms and a pavement that had been constructed all around the court; there were thirty rooms along the pavement. It abutted the sides of the gateways and was as wide as they were long; this was the lower pavement. Then he measured the distance from the inside of the lower gateway to the outside of the inner court; it was a hundred cubits^] on the east side as well as on the north. Ezekiel 40:17-19

Observation: Interestingly, today’s study lets us take a look at the rooms in the outer court. There are 30 of them, and presumably, since they are in the outer court, they are for the common people. Their purpose is not mentioned in Ezekiel, but still meditating on it, they hold important lessons for us.

Firstly, the temple is not just for the priests but also for the common people. The common people are important too and the rooms are for them, perhaps to prepare themselves for worship unto God.

Secondly, the rooms are identical in shape, which reminds us that every person is equal before God. Rich or poor, tall or short, God judges each one fairly according to his or her own ability and resources. For us too, we are reminded that we must be fair and impartial to others, not favoring one over another just because of he or she is richer, more famous or more beautiful.

Thirdly, the rooms remind us of our future in heaven. Jesus told his disciples “Do not let your hearts be troubled, trust in God and trust in Me. In My Father’s house are many rooms. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” The rooms remind us of our destiny and future in Heaven above.

Application: Remember and praise God that He looks out and cares for us, the common people. Thank Him that He is impartial and just, and all men are equal before Him. Pray for His wisdom and courage to treat others fairly and impartially regardless of status or race. Finally, remember that we have a wonderful home in Heaven Jesus has promised us.

Prayer: Father God, I thank You and praise You that You care for us, each one of us on earth, no matter how small or great we are. Lord, I thank You that You are just and righteous in all Your ways. Help me be like You in the way I treat others, fairly and righteously. I praise You and thank You, Lord Jesus, for You have prepared a place for me in Heaven above. May my life glorify Your name. In Jesus name, Amen.

The sacrificial rooms

The sacrificial rooms

Scripture: A room with a doorway was by the portico in each of the inner gateways, where the burnt offerings were washed. In the portico of the gateway were two tables on each side, on which the burnt offerings, sin offerings and guilt offerings were slaughtered. By the outside wall of the portico of the gateway, near the steps at the entrance of the north gateway were two tables, and on the other side of the steps were two tables. So there were four tables on one side of the gateway and four on the other—eight tables in all—on which the sacrifices were slaughtered. There were also four tables of dressed stone for the burnt offerings, each a cubit and a half long, a cubit and a half wide and a cubit high. On them were placed the utensils for slaughtering the burnt offerings and the other sacrifices. And double-pronged hooks, each a handbreadth long, were attached to the wall all around. The tables were for the flesh of the offerings. Ezekiel 40:38-43

Observation: The next thing we see about Ezekiel’s temple is that there are sacrificial rooms where there will be sacrifices. As mentioned before, once Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins, there is no longer any need for the sacrifices of bulls and lambs. These sacrifices of old were to foreshadow the coming perfect sacrifice of our Lord Himself.

As illustrated in the guilt offering, our sin was transferred to our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross so that we might be completely absolved from guilt before God. The fact that the sacrificial rooms had to be passed before entering the holy of holies show that we too cannot enter the presence of God except by the blood of the lamb that purifies us.

It is interesting that sacrificial tables were not mentioned in the description of the other temples, but here we see eight. Hence, we get the impression of multiple sacrifices being done at the same time.

Regarding sacrifices, although we do not offer the sacrifices of old, there are many important sacrifices that we can give God. In Romans 12:1, Paul urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God by being holy and pleasing. Therefore, our holy lifestyle itself is a sacrifice unto God.

In Philippians 4:18, Paul described the gift sent to him from the Philippian church as a fragrant offering and sacrifice pleasing to God. Our gifts of money or goods to missions, to the poor, are also sacrifices unto God.

In Hebrews 13:15, we are called to give a sacrifice of praise to God. Our worship, our songs to God are also sacrifices unto Him. This sacred worship and praise to God is not just in a corporate church setting, but also in our private moments, as the Spirit leads us to declare praise or songs of worship to God.

Application: Thank our Lord Jesus for His great sacrifice for us that washes away our sins and enables us to come before God. Resolve to show our thankfulness and love for God by the sacrifice of a holy life, sacrifice by way of gifts to missions and the poor, and sacrifice of praise and worship to God on a daily basis, from our hearts.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank You and praise You for Your perfect sacrifice, for dying on the cross for my sins, that I might be saved, that I might come and be with our Father. Strengthen me O Lord and give me the desire to live life in a holy and pleasing way, as a living sacrifice. Spur my heart to give generously to bless Your work, and let Your praises and worship always be on my lips. In Jesus name, Amen.

The rooms of the priests

The rooms of the priests

Scripture: "Then he said to me, 'The north and south rooms facing the temple courtyard are the priests' rooms, where the priests who approach the Lord will eat the most holy offerings. There they will put the most holy offerings - the grain offerings, the sin offerings and the guilt offerings - for the place is holy. Once the priests enter the holy precincts, they are not to go into the outer court until they leave behind the garments in which they minister, for these are holy. They are to put on other clothes before they go near the places that are for the people. Ezekiel 42:13-14

Observation: Today’s Scripture focuses on the priests’ rooms. The temple courtyard is very near the holy of holies, where God Himself will meet with the priests and the priests’ rooms here are where they eat the most holy offerings and change into the garments in which they minister.

In 1 Peter 2:9, the apostle Peter declares “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” Jesus is our great High Priest, and we too are chosen to be part of God’s royal priesthood, to serve God and be in His presence.

Looking back at the function of the priest’s rooms, we see that firstly they eat the most holy offerings there. Since Jesus came, He has done away with the sacrifices of old as it is written in Hebrews 7:27, “unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.” So what does “eating the most holy offerings” mean for us today? Remember, Jesus said “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day” in John 6:54. Jesus is by far the most holy of offerings. When we take the holy communion and remember Jesus, that His body broken for us and His blood shed for us, we are reaffirming our faith that the Lord’s sacrifice on the cross has set us free from our sins, and given us new life in Him. It is only by His great sacrifice, that we are able to go into the holy of holies, to be with God.  

Secondly, the priests have to take care to wear holy garments before they minister to the Lord. Spiritually, it is not physical clothes that make a person holy or unholy. In Romans 13:14, Paul says “Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.” When we come to God, we must always remember that we cannot come in our own righteousness, which are like filthy rags, but only by the perfect righteousness of our Lord Jesus Christ. We need to see ourselves wearing robes of righteousness. If we see Jesus on us, and in us, our behavior will surely change. There was once a heavy smoker who came to know the Lord and he thought to himself “If Jesus is in me and I smoke, I am making Jesus smoke”, so he quickly quit the habit.”

Application:  We need to remember two important things when we come to our holy God. Firstly, we come to God by the blood of the lamb, by the perfect sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. Secondly, we come not by our own righteousness but by the Lord’s righteousness. How precious and holy it is that we are able to come and fellowship with our mighty, living God. Let us never take it for granted.

Prayer: Lord, I will ever seek Your face. Thank You, Lord Jesus for Your great sacrifice for me, that through You, my sins have been forgiven, and I have new life. Lord, You are my righteousness alone. I desire to be in Your presence O Lord and to know You more. Be real in my life I pray, as I worship You and seek Your face. In Jesus name, Amen.

The steps of the temple

The steps of the temple

Scripture: Seven steps led up to it, with its portico opposite them; it had palm tree decorations on the faces of the projecting walls on each side. Ezekiel 40:26

Observation: In the description of the temple of Ezekiel, steps are mentioned in 8 places. 7 steps are mentioned at the East gate and the South gate, and 8 steps at the East and South gates of the inner court. When we think of steps, we automatically think of ascension, going up. The number 7 symbolizes perfection, and the number 8 symbolizes new beginnings.

God is above us, high and lifted up in the heavens. When we come to him, we must ascend to meet Him. In Psalm 24, it is written “Who may ascend his holy hill? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, he who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false.”   

All of us have fallen short, there is no one righteous not even one, and it is impossible for human beings in their sin to ascend and be with a Holy God. However, God has made it all possible by the death of His perfect Son on the cross, for His blood washes away our sins and makes us righteous, just as if we had never sinned.

When we come to God to worship, it is good to look upwards towards Heaven, and to know that we worship in Jesus name, for only in His name can we ascend and have communion with God. In Jesus, we are a new creation. The old has gone, and the new has come.

In Galatians 5, Paul exhorts us to “keep in step with the Spirit”. To walk with the Spirit is to choose to follow the ways of God rather than the ways of men, to choose obedience to God over our selfish desires. The Holy Spirit is living and active, and moves like the wind according to His will which follows the will of God. Where we follow Him, there is power, there is release, there is peace and strength.

Application: When we worship, remember the steps of the temple, that God is High and lifted up above us in Heaven. Seek to rise up and be with Him in Jesus name. Thank Jesus for His perfect sacrifice on the cross, which has given us a new beginning, which has made us a new creation. Ask for more of His Spirit that we may keep in step with God’s will as we live life.

Prayer: Father Lord, I praise You and worship You who are high and exalted above the heavens. Let my praises rise up to You, O Lord. Lord Jesus, thank You for Your grace for me. Thank You for Your perfect sacrifice that set me free, and made me a new creation. Holy Spirit, fill my life and teach me. Help me walk with You and keep in step with You. In Jesus name, Amen.

Eternal Attraction

Eternal Attraction – Pastor Charlie Koh, SIB

When people mention mission, typically mission trips and going away to a far away land to preach the gospel come to mind. However, Christopher Wright has in fact advocated that mission is simply attracting people towards God.

What is the mission of God’s people? God’s people are committed to blessing others. They are committed to walking in the ways of God, in righteousness and justice. They strive to work for holistic redemption for the oppressed. They seek to live lives of practical holiness in the world. Ultimately, all that God’s people do as a whole is to attracts other people towards God.

If a church is only inward looking, and not outward looking, it will not grow. Likewise, the Believer who is only inward looking and does not look outward cannot grow.

In Titus 2:9-10, Paul instructs Titus  “Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.” The word “make attractive” here is “cosmeo”, from which we get the word “cosmetic”. Today, cosmetics gives us the impression of a superficial, polishing image. However, the principle here is a longing by God’s people to make the gospel, and the teachings of God attractive, like a magnet attracting people to God. If we place God in the centre of our lives, we will draw people into the sphere of His blessing. The main thing is “God must be in the centre of mission, not what we do”. God in the centre draws people towards God. Its not about works, its not about charity, its about attracting people towards God. When you serve others, you are attracting them towards your God.

Missions attract curiosity. When a group of Christians go to a far away place for just a few days, people wonder “Why are they doing it? How much difference can they make?” Just their presence alone attracts people towards God.

In Deuteronomy 4:5-8 Moses told the Israelites “See, I have taught you decrees and laws as the LORD my God commanded me, so that you may follow them in the land you are entering to take possession of it. Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, “Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people” What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the LORD our God is near us whenever we pray to him? And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today?

God put Israel on a pedestal for the other nations around them. Two qualities stood out in particular for Israel. Firstly, their God is near them and secondly, they have the standards of God. They were open to be seen, open to be compared, open to be challenged. For us, it is the same. If you say you are a Christian, people automatically become more watchful of your behavior. There is a high expectation of Christians. We will automatically attract curiosity because we have the attraction of the Holy Spirit in us.

One lady who attended the Alpha course wondered why Christians were so fanatical. However, by the 7^th week, she had accepted Christ. She was attracted to the community, the relationships, the caring and love shown by the people. Missions attract seekers.

In 1 Kings 8:41-43, King Solomon prayed “As for the foreigner who does not belong to your people Israel but has come from a distant land because of your name— for they will hear of your great name and your mighty hand and your outstretched arm—when they come and pray toward this temple, then hear from heaven, your dwelling place. Do whatever the foreigner asks of you, so that all the peoples of the earth may know your name and fear you, as do your own people Israel, and may know that this house I have built bears your Name.

Solomon knew that through Israel, foreigners would hear of God’s great name, they would seek answers to their prayers, and God would hear their prayers. There are three things in particular that God’s people and the temple would attract. They would attract admiration. They would attract worship, and they would attract approval.

What is required for us to make the difference in missions in our lives? Firstly, is integrity. Secondly, is intimacy with God.

Kevin Carter, the photographer that took the picture that made the world weep won the Pulitzer prize in 1994, but committed suicide three months later. The picture he took was of a small emaciated child struggling to walk as a vulture looked on patiently in the background. His mission had been to win the prize, but after all he had seen, he could not bear it. In his suicide note, he wrote “The pain of life overrides the joy to the point that joy does not exist”. The point is that self-focus does not get very far, but a life of purpose attracting people towards God is rich and fulfilling.

May we begin to look at ourselves differently as truly ambassadors of Christ, attracting others towards the mighty and awesome God that we have. In Jesus name, Amen.

6 principles in a God-led career

6 principles in a God-led career

This Friday, we were privileged at FGB Jaya Chapter One to have brother Stephen Chew, Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Business, McDonalds Malaysia share with us his testimony.

Brother Stephen has worked for 15 years with McDonalds Malaysia, since starting as a Marketing officer in 1996. Through many tough years, he rose through the ranks to become part of the senior management team. In the course of his working life, he found 6 main principles that helped him the most.

Firstly, is the principle of staying humble. It is so important for us to stay humble and remember where we have come from no matter how high we have risen in life. Saul was once small in his own eyes, but allowed power and fame to shift his view, and his arrogance caused him to lose his anointing. We need to always depend on God. A few years back, having risen to the post of Director, Brother Stephen was given a company car, a simple white Proton. No one below him envied him, those above him pitied him. In a way, it was a reminder to remain humble.

Secondly, is the principle of knowing that everything we have comes from God. We may be tempted to think that we have become successful based on our own effort, but the truth is, everything we have, everything we have been given comes from God. Throughout his Christian life, one thing brother Stephen did faithfully was tithe. Tithing is a reminder to us that all we have belongs to God, and in His grace, we are allowed to keep 90% for our needs. Initially, in his career, brother Stephen tithed even though he did not have any savings, but over the years, he is thankful to God that he has managed to buy a house on a single income.

Thirdly, is the principle of “God’s will over my will”. As a person, brother Stephen tends to want to do everything on his own, a little perfectionist. It is hard to change when we think we know better. In the course of his career, brother Stephen received a lot of job offers, but he chose to seek God’s will. One particularly tempting offer was to work in Singapore, but both Stephen and his wife felt that the need was greater in Malaysia despite the crime and problems in the country.

There is a lot of distorted teaching about success. The prosperity gospel teaches that Christians should show the world they are prosperous. However, before that, Christians should show the world that they will still love God and be humble despite anything that happens to them. Each one has to die to self, take up their cross and follow Christ. Our mission is not to be prosperous, it is to preach the gospel, it is to serve God. We don’t need to be successful to bring people to Christ. We just need to testify of His goodness. The more we testify, the more praise we give God. 

Fourthly, is the principle of “God over work”. Climbing the corporate ladder is not easy, and many times, brother Stephen found himself working up to 9pm, having little time for the family, and he wasn’t happy. Somehow, God led him and his wife to the school of Acts, and through the experience, God taught him so much. Work was so challenging, he taught he would have to give up, but somehow God made it so he was able to go. At night, his parents helped him take care of the children. He went on a mission trip to Thailand by a step of faith. All things became possible because of God.

The fifth principle is “use every opportunity to influence people around you.” McDonalds has 110,000 employees. The founders said “we are not in the hamburger business, we are in the people business”. In his position, brother Stephen realizes that there are so many people he can influence. Charting out the plan for the next couple of years, he realized the challenge of the Malaysian mindset, the “tidak apa” apathetic attitude. He desires to get the best out of the people. His vision is to start changing McDonalds by changing the people. He wants the employees to know there is a right way of thinking, a right attitude, right values. He realizes he can play a part in cultivating positive values in society.

Recently, during an advertising campaign on the Prosperity burger, he used it to redefine the meaning of prosperity. Prosperity is happiness, friendship, love, satisfaction, peace, family. The concept of the Breakfast in the Box is all about family. It is about family eating together. Even in the toys in the Happy Meals, brother Stephen influences where he can the suitability of the toys, and not just the popularity.

The final principle is “Family before work”. If we are not careful, we can be so busy at work and for God that we neglect our family. At home, dealing with rowdy, jumping children is more difficult than systematic, efficient work. However, it is spending time with the children that cultivates them. In the world, there are so many unhealthy things that attract them. We have to grow with them, as they grow up in the world.

In closing, brother Stephen shared with us how God protected him in a dangerous car-jacking incident. On the way to fetch his children in his CRV in 2007 at night, he slowed down at a bump, and the car behind knocked him. He got down to inspect the damage, and suddenly, a man jumped into the car. His wife, pressed on the horn loudly, but the man started to drive. Bravely, she managed to unbuckle her seatbelt and jump out of the moving car, rolling on the ground. Praise God that she was fine with no scratches, only dirtying her clothes. After checking she was alright, brother Stephen ran after the car, knowing that it could stall. Sure enough, he found that the CRV had stopped some distance away. He shouted loudly at the man, who just ran away. Checking his car, he found nothing missing, not even his house keys. In just 20 minutes he had recovered his stolen car. Then suddenly, he found a 19” machete at the side of the car. Had he realized the man was armed so dangerously, he might not have given chase like that. Looking back, brother Stephen realizes that it was God protecting the family. Thank God his wife had jumped out of the car. Thank God his children were not in the car. Thank God he was not harmed by the man and his machete. And thank God he recovered the car with no losses at all. God is indeed our mighty God!

Guarding the temple

Guarding the temple

Scripture:- The alcoves for the guards were one rod long and one rod wide, and the projecting walls between the alcoves were five cubits thick. Ezekiel 40:7

Observation: In the description of Ezekiel’s temple, guards are only mentioned once in that there were rooms for them. However, the lesson for us is that just as there are guards for God’s temple, we who are the temple of the Holy Spirit also need guarding.

First of all, our supreme Guard is of course our Mighty God in Heaven. In Psalms 25:20, David cries to God “Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you. In Psalm 127:1, Solomon exclaims “Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. Ultimately, our trust should always be in God as our ultimate Guardian from all trouble and enemies.

However, there are other areas of our lives that we too must take especial care to guard. In Psalm 141:3, David prays: Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips. He understood that our words, what we say and do is especially important. James likens our tongue to an untamed beast, and we are often reminded that the tongue has the power of life and death. Proverbs 21:23 says Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.

In the Proverbs, Solomon often writes of understanding, instruction and discretion guarding us. That’s why it is so important for us to read God’s Word, to let it immerse into our lives, for God’s wisdom will then overflow and guard us from doing wrong and bringing trouble on ourselves. Proverbs 4:23 says “Above all, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”. Our heart is deceitful beyond all cure, who can understand it? On our own strength, we are bound to run into trouble, but if we submit our hearts to the Holy Spirit, and seek to do God’s will rather than our own, we will be safe.

Another area, we must be very careful to be on guard of is greed. Jesus preached “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” in Luke 12:15. Today there are many who preach a gospel focusing a lot on abundance of possessions and money given by God, but we need to be careful that this does not become a snare. There is greed too in other areas, for fame, for entertainment, for food, for leisure that is all dangerous.

Finally, and so importantly is the importance of constant prayer and guarding our minds. Philippians 4:6-8 reads “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” The mind is often said to be the battlefield and we need to think about what we are thinking about. We need to fill our minds with prayers and thinking positive thoughts in God, to guard our hearts and mind in Christ Jesus.

Application: Look to God as our supreme Guardian in all things. Take care to guard our mouths from careless talk, to train ourselves in wisdom in God’s Word, to be very careful against greed in our lives, and to pray and guard our minds to be careful of what we are thinking about. 

Prayer: Lord, I praise You for being My Great Guardian in Heaven. In You always will I put my trust. Teach me O Lord, to guard my heart and mind and especially my tongue. Lead me away from all kinds of greed, and fill my life with Your precious Word and presence. In Jesus name, Amen.

Walls of the temple

Walls of the temple

Scripture: "I saw a wall completely surrounding the temple area. The length of the measuring rod in the man's hand was six long cubits, each of which was a cubit and a handbreadth. He measured the wall; it was one measuring rod thick and one rod high." (Ezekiel 40:5)

Observation: The next part of Ezekiel’s temple that we focus on is the wall surrounding the temple area. It is a wall completely connected all the way round, and it is thick and high.

What are the main purposes of walls? Firstly, walls are for separation, separating the holiness of God’s temple from the common things outside. When we are in Christ, we are also separate, set apart from the things of the world. The Holy Spirit in us, a powerful conscience, is like a wall of holiness turning us away from evil, but keeping us in God’s paths. There is a Proverb which says “Like a city without walls is a person who lacks self-control (25:28) The Fruit of the Spirit – Self-control, is like a wall keeping us from sin.

Secondly, walls are for protection, for keeping out enemies. All great cities have walls. Jericho of old was a city with a great wall, but it could not stand before the Living God of Israel who was with Joshua and the Israelites. Separation and Protection come together. When we leave the ways of the world, and follow the ways of God, God becomes our Protector, our Shelter, our Refuge.

Finally, walls in Ezekiel’s temple was also used for useful and creative purposes – for decorations, for holding up the portico, for having alcoves (rooms) for the guards. When we are within the walls of safety in our Lord Jesus, it is not just to stay there and do nothing but to be useful. In God’s service there are plenty of creative things we can do to serve Him, each according to his or her own ability and imagination.

Application:  Thinking of walls, remember that we are called out to be separate and holy, from the world. Remember that God is our protector, and no one can harm us if we are in Him. Finally, remember that we are safe to be useful. So let us pray that God will inspire us to serve Him in different, creative ways, to build up the body of Christ.

Prayer: Lord, I thank You that You called me out to be separate and holy, set apart for You. Help me stay within the wonderful walls of Your protection as You give me Your Holy Spirit. Inspire my heart I pray, that I may serve You more and more, and find joy and creativity in pleasing you. In Jesus name, Amen. 

The porticos at the gateway

The porticos at the gateway

Scripture: "Then he measured the porch of the gate facing inward, one rod. He measured the porch of the gate, eight cubits; and its side pillars, two cubits. And the porch of the gate was faced inward." Ezekiel 40:8-10

Observation: The porches, or the porticos at the gateway of each gate of Ezekiel’s temple had three important features – it was covered, it was supported by pillars on each side, and it faced inward. Matthew Henry’s commentary suggest that this porches were built to shelter those who attended there from rain or shine.

Hence for those approaching the temple from the gateway, the shelter from the porticos remind them that God is their shelter, their refuge. In the Psalms, the Psalmists often refer to God as their great shelter, their great refuge. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the almighty” is indeed a wonderful and favorite verse for many.

When Abraham set out to Canaan in obedience to the Lord, he was led to settle under the great trees of Mamre. The shade of the tree indeed wonderfully gives us a picture of God’s favor and protection sheltering us.

The fact that the porticos face inward remind us, that it is in continuing to look towards the Lord and hope in Him that we enjoy His favor and protection. Jesus said “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.” Just as the Israelites who looked up to Moses’ serpent were saved, so too we who look up to Jesus, and continue to hope in Him will be saved.

Application: Remember and declare that God is our Great Shelter, and we hide under the shadow of His wings. Turn our faces towards Jesus as our Great Savior and hope in Him as our Great Protector and Shepherd.

Prayer: Lord, I thank You for Your abundant grace and favor, for bringing Your wonderful shade to cover me and give me protection and rest. Let my eyes always be fixed on You, Lord Jesus, for it is only You who are My true Shepherd and Protector. In Jesus name, Amen.

The East, North and South Gates

I am the gate

I am the gate

Scripture: "Then he went to the gate facing east. He climbed its steps and measured the threshold of the gate; it was one rod deep." (Ezek 40:6 ); "Then he measured the length and width of the gate facing north, leading into the outer court." (Ezek 40:20-21); "Then he led me to the south side and I saw a gate facing south." (Ezek 40:24).

Observation: In Ezekiel’s temple, a lot of time is spent talking about the gates, describing its measurements and specifications in great detail. But what is the main significance of gates in Scripture?

Firstly, in the time of Abraham, we see the gate as a place where important deals were witnessed. Abraham met Ephron the Hittite at the city gate, and purchased the tomb for his wife Sarah there in the presence of the people for the agreed price. Later Boaz acquired Ruth and the property of her deceased husband at the city gate. Spiritually, when Jesus said “I am the gate for the sheep”, it also reminds us that at Jesus’ death on the cross, the transaction took place whereby Jesus died for us that we might have eternal life. He paid the full blood price that we might be redeemed from our sin!

Secondly, the gate is simply an entrance to a city or a place. When Jacob had the dream about the stairway to heaven, where angels were ascending and descending, he exclaimed “this is the gate to heaven”. Later, Jesus said “you will see angels ascending and descending on the Son of Man”. Jesus again is the gate to Heaven, and no one can enter heaven without going through Jesus Christ!

Thirdly, the Israelites were asked to write down the law of God on the doorframes of their houses and their gates. The reason for this, is that they will be constantly reminded of God and His law when they come in and when they go out. In the same way, spiritually, as Jesus is our gate. Whenever we come in and go out, our thoughts should always be reminded of the Lord, and our need to worship Him and serve Him.

Fourthly, the gate is also a place of judgment. Under the Mosaic law, certain offenses punishable by death resulted in a person being dragged to the city gate and being stoned there. Spiritually, Jesus as our gate has taken our judgment upon Himself. Yet those who refuse to accept Him will likewise be judged on account of Him and be destroyed.

Application:  Praise Jesus for dying on the cross for our sins. Confess that He died that we might have life, that He was punished that we might be forgiven. Pray for faith and strength to follow Jesus and ever keep Him before our eyes as we serve Him and love Him.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank You that You died on the cross that I might have life, in full sight of all heaven. Help me always follow You and serve You till the end. I thank You, Lord, that only through You can I enter the gates of Heaven. Let Your ways, Your person ever be before me in my coming and going. Lord, You were judged that I might be forgiven. Bless You and thank you, dear Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.

The palm trees and the cherubim

The palm trees and the cherubim

Scripture: "The faces of the projecting walls were decorated with palm trees." (Ezek 40:16); "From the floor to the area above the entrance, cherubim and palm trees were carved on the wall of the outer sanctuary." (Ezek 41:20)

Observation: The next part of our study on Ezekiel's temple are the decorations, the palm trees and cherubim that are frequently motived throughout the temple. What is the significance of the palm trees and the cherubim?

Palm trees are first mentioned in the Bible in Exodus 15:27,when the Israelites came to Elim and found twelve springs and seventy palm trees and hey camped there. So palm trees first of all give us the impression of a place of refuge, of rest, of comfort. Even today, when we think of a palm tree, we think of a nice resort by the beach. God is our refuge and our strength, our shelter. He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the almighty, as the Psalmist writes.

In Leviticus 23:40 the Israelites were instructed “to take branches from luxuriant trees, from palms,willows and other leafy trees” and rejoice before the Lord for 7 days. Palms were mentioned first, and we see here that palms also symbolize rejoicing, praising God joyfully. When Jesus rode the donkey into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the people waved palm branches as a symbol of rejoicing, shouting Hosanna. Paul exhorts us, rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.

Also,in Judges 4:5, we see Deborah holding court under the Palm of Deborah where she served as Judge to the people of Israel. Therefore, the palm tree also represents justice.

Besides that, in Psalm 92:12 it is written, the righteous will flourish like a palm tree. Hence, the palm tree also symbolizes righteousness, and the rewards that righteousness brings. Now palm trees grow well under harsh conditions. One can just imagine a palm tree standing firm even in the face of a mighty tsunami. Quite often, it is under persecution and trouble, that true righteousness shines forth.

In Revelation 7:9, we see the multitude who have come out of the great tribulation holding palm branches. Finally, palms also symbolize victory!

As for Cherubim, the presence of angels in the motives remind us that we are not alone, but have great and powerful servants of God with us, helping us, sustaining us according to God's will.

Application: Think of a palm tree and remember that God is our mighty refuge and comfort. Remember to rejoice always in the Lord. Remember to pray for justice and righteousness in our lives, and remember our great victory in Jesus. Finally, thank God for the angels that He sends to help us and assist us to do His will.

Prayer: Lord, I thank You for the palm tree which You created and the richness of its meaning. I praise You Lord that You are indeed my great Comfort, my great shelter. Let there be righteousness and justice in my life, O Lord, as You help me grow more and more in You. I thank You, Lord, that I am a victor because Jesus has won the victory. Bless You, Lord, for the angels that You send to help me. May I honor Your name always. In Jesus name, Amen.

In perfect uniformity, in perfect harmony,

In perfect uniformity, in perfect harmony,

Scripture:  I saw a wall completely surrounding the temple area. The length of the measuring rod in the man’s hand was six long cubits, each of which was a cubit and a handbreadth. He measured the wall; it was one measuring rod thick and one rod high.  Then he went to the east gate. He climbed its steps and measured the threshold of the gate; it was one rod deep. The alcoves for the guards were one rod long and one rod wide, and the projecting walls between the alcoves were five cubits thick. And the threshold of the gate next to the portico facing the temple was one rod deep.; Ezekiel 40:5-7

Observation: Prophesying about the future restoration of Israel, Ezekiel is shown in great detail the building of a new temple, which is somewhat different from Solomon’s original temple.

However, this temple has never been built and currently, in Jerusalem, there is no temple. The first temple was destroyed by Babylon and the second temple by the Romans in 70 A.D. In the last days, Jesus prophesied that the abomination of desolation, the Anti-Christ will declare himself to be God in God’s temple in Jerusalem. That means a third temple will be rebuilt. The Jews who rebuild this third temple could attempt to do so according to the specifications laid out in the book of Ezekiel. Nevertheless, the situation now is that the Dome of the Rock, the second most important mosque is situated there now. Recently, there has been interest in the rebuilding of the temple among the Jews, and apparently, even the articles of worship are being prepared. In fact, there are some Bible scholars who think that Ezekiel’s temple is probably the millennial temple which will be rebuilt once Jesus comes back and reigns for the 1,000 years.

However, regardless whether Ezekiel’s temple will prophetically be the third or fourth temple, there are important lessons we can learn from this temple, and Lyn Chaffart has done a marvelous devotional series on lessons from the temple in www.scripturalnuggets.org In general, remembering that our bodies are called the temple of the Holy Spirit, there is much we can learn from this temple as well.

The passage today looks at the measurement of the temple, which is completely uniform, speaking of its amazing perfection. Through Ezekiel 40, the temple is portrayed as a perfect cube. Later in Revelation 21, we see the New Jerusalem coming down in also a perfect cube. Typical Hebrew thinking depicts a perfect cube as being perfect in harmony. God is a God of order, a perfect God who creates things to fit perfectly into place just as He means it to be. God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit work together perfectly in unity and harmony. They are one, and Jesus’ prayer is that we too will be one just as He and the Father are one.

Application: It is a sad thing that the church which was intended to be one is instead fragmented into so many different denominations - Pentecostal, Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, Lutheran, and the list goes on. However, we are one family in the body of Christ. The unity of the church is so important. We need to continuously pray for unity, and try to put aside petty ambitions and quarrels, but focus instead on the core issues – loving God and Jesus, building the people, extending the kingdom.

Prayer: Lord, forgive us for the times when we let petty insignificant things cause us to drift apart and lose our unity. We ask for unity, dear Father, that we may be one – one in purpose, one in heart, one in desire to love our Lord Jesus and extend His kingdom here on earth together. In Jesus name, Amen.

The measuring rod

The measuring rod

Scripture: I saw a wall completely surrounding the temple area. The length of the measuring rod in the man’s hand was six long cubits, each of which was a cubit and a handbreadth. He measured the wall; it was one measuring rod thick and one rod high. Ezekiel 40:5

Observation:  Right through chapters 40-44, we see that literally everything was measured and their precise measurements recorded. This fact teaches us that our God is a perfect God, perfect in detail, to the minutest specification. In Isaiah 28:17, God said that He would make justice the measuring line. Imagine a group of students trying to make it to the basketball team. Each one is measured, and only students of a certain height are allowed to go on. Or imagine a group of women seeking to be air stewardesses, but only those taller than a certain height would be allowed to go to the next stage. In the same way, God has a certain standard of righteousness and holiness, but none of us can truly attain in.

However, praise be to God, our Lord Jesus can, and because of His great sacrifice, we have peace and acceptance with God. This is never by our own merit, but solely by God’s grace and the sacrifice of Jesus.

In Zechariah 2, there is a similar image of a man with a measuring line going to measure Jerusalem’s breadth and length, and the Lord speaks of Jerusalem being a city without walls and the Lord Himself being the walls of fire around the city. This speaks of separation of God’s people from the outside.

Application: There are two principles we must learn here. Firstly, our righteousness is in the Lord Jesus. The Bible says there is no one who does good, not even one, and no one is worthy of the perfect salvation of God. However, God has prepared a way, for us to measure up, not by our righteousness but the righteousness of Jesus. In Him, we are wearing white raiment, pure and bright and clean. Secondly, we are set apart from God. That means we are not to be like the world, but holy and set apart, living sacrifices unto God.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank You that You alone are my righteousness. Only in You am I justified and saved and made righteous before God. Help me in humility always remember that. I thank You, Lord, that You set me apart for Your service. Help me serve You faithfully with all You have given me, and keep myself from being polluted by the world. In Jesus name, Amen.

I am their inheritance

I am their inheritance

Scripture:- “‘I am to be the only inheritance the priests have. You are to give them no possession in Israel; I will be their possession Ezekiel 44:28

Observation:- In this verse in Ezekiel, we are reminded yet again of the lot of the priests. At first, they seem deprived compared to the other tribes in Israel because they are to have no possession of land. However, far more precious is their inheritance for the Lord Himself is there for them.

For those in full time ministry and especially mission work, the world usually cannot understand why these people would give up comfortable lives with stable incomes for lives with many physical and material hardships and even serious endangerment to them and their family. They are heroes of faith because they have recognized that this world was only temporary and they long for a better country, a heavenly one. And God has prepared a beautiful city for them, as He has promised.

Jesus promised his disciples in Mark 9, “Truly I tell you, no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

When we have nothing but God, and lean totally on Him for help, our lives will be so different. Then we cannot help but live life by faith day by day, and trust in Him and see the miracles that He provides to save us.

Application: In the New Testament, all of us in Jesus Christ are priests, being part of a royal priesthood to God. Our true inheritance is not in worldly things but in the almighty, living God. We need to never fail to forget that all that we have here is only temporary – riches, fames, achievement. Only our faith and obedience to God counts.

Prayer: Lord, You alone are my inheritance. Let my trust ever be in You alone. Though all else may fail, and the worldly things fade away, let my heart and mind always be true to You, O Lord. Even so, Lord Jesus, come. In Jesus name, Amen.

Arrogance and foolishness

This Saturday, we were privileged at SIB to listen to the message by Pastor Chew on “Arrogance and foolishness”.

The text was 1 Samuel 25:1-34, which was the account of David’s encounter with Nabal and his wife Abigail. In a time when David was still living as an outcast with a band of about 600 men, he once sent some men to humbly ask a rich landowner named Nabal for some provisions during a festive time. However, Nabal, a mean and surly man rejected David’s men completely and even called him a rebel and an outlaw. When David heard of this, he was so furious that he and his men set out to kill Nabal and every male that belonged to him. However, Nabal’s servants quickly approached his wife Abigail who wasted no time in quickly sending choice food to David and his men. Then she herself went out to meet David, and persuade him to turn from killing Nabal. Basically, the story is about 3 main characters, David, Nabal and Abigail, about Abigail standing in the gap between and angry David and a foolish husband. There is one lesson to learn from each of these characters.

Now one question that Pastor Chew had always pondered was “how was it possible that with all the wisdom God gave Solomon, that he was able to degenerate into the condition he was in when he wrote Ecclesiastes, declaring that everything was meaningless” Pastor discussed this with LT Jeyachandran, and LT explained that wisdom has two components, an intellectual component and a moral component. Solomon had the intellectual component of wisdom, being able to build great things and undertake grand projects, but he was morally deficient. Many clever people are very foolish, because morally, they can’t stand the test.

The bible describes Nabal and surly and mean – harsh, evil, dishonest, bad tempered. Walter Brueggemann wrote of Nabal that his possessions preceded his person. Life was only determined by his property. We are told of his riches before his name. His identity was caught up in what he owned.

His name means fool, and his wife, who would know him better than anyone, described him the same.

Nabal was a man who despised people, looking down upon people who came to ask him for help because of his riches. Even today, there are rich, arrogant people who will insult you before they help you. The anointed king of Israel had praised him, and told him how he protected his sheep. And he had come on a good day, a festive day. However, Nabal’s reaction was hurting, saying that he didn’t know David. He had a very bad attitude which offends God.

Nabal’s servants who came to Abigail showed their intense disdain for him, calling him a wicked man who would not listen to anyone. The first lesson is this: No matter how successful you are, don’t be arrogant! If you are arrogant, you do so at your own peril.  

Now, looking at the second character in the story, we see the reaction of David. The Bible is completely honest and shows up both the positive and negative side of God’s heroes. David and 400 of his men had gone up to kill Nabal and this was also wrong. Even it you are angry, it does not give you the right to seek revenge. The 2^nd principle is this: “Don’t’ be vengeful no matter how provoked you are.” Romans 12:17-21 reads:- Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

We are not to take revenge but live at peace, leaving room for God’s road. We are to take the higher road, not stooping down to the level of those who persecute us. This story is actually a perfect example of the passage. David did not take revenge on Nabal, and Nabal instead met his judgment from God, dying not many days later. Later, in a similar situation, David’s own son, Absalom rebelled against him, and he too, died, although David would not lift up one hand against his own son and in fact ordered his men to be gentle with Abdsalom for David’s sake.

Now, moving on to the third character, we see a real unsung heroine of the Bible – Abigail. If David had killed Nabal, he would have been guilty of murder. Later, David actually sinned by organizing the murder of Uriah and suffered terrible consequences, but at this stage he had not even been crowned king. The repercussions of his sin would have been enormous.

Abigail personified everything about wisdom, both intellectually and morally. In verse 18, we read how Abigail lost no time once she heard the news, and sent her servants ahead with gift for David. While some people might be blur, Abigail understood the emergency and knew what she had to do. She responded, not reacted. She had good people skills, bringing gifts first, and she was willing to substitute herself for Nabal’s sin. She fell at David’s feet and cried “Upon me, my Lord, upon me let this iniquity be”. How totally Christ-like. Although she was innocent, Abigail was set to take the blame herself alone.

Only 3 persons in the Old Testament model the substitute sacrifice personified by Jesus Christ, an innocent person offering to take the place of a guilty person. Besides Abigail, there is Judah, who offered to take the place of Benjamin when the stolen cup was found on him and Moses, who offered to take the place of the Israelites when God was about to destroy them completely because of their idolatry.

Abigail came as mediator between David and Nabal. The church of Christ needs more Abigails to rise up, women who are wise, sacrificial and self-controlled. In this event, Abigail’s status was lifted up from housewife to mediator to prophetess. She prophesied that David would have a lasting dynasty, that his life would be secure even though he was being pursued by Saul, and he would be appointed as ruler over Israel, and later all these came true. Abigail’s words that “David’s life would be bound securely in the bundle of the living by the Lord” is especially precious. The bundle of the living signified something held precious by the Lord.

The third and final principle is this:- No matter how pressured you are, never stop becoming Christ-like. The more Christ-like we are, the more God will trust us, and the more He will reveal to us . Later, after Nabal died, David sent for Abigail to be his wife, and from the wife of a surly fool, she now became a wife of the future King.

The summary in conclusion for us:-

No matter how successful we are, don’t be arrogant

No matter how provoked we are, don’t be vengeful

No matter how pressured we are, don’t stop being Christ-like

God bless,

Jason