God’s Word For Today

Acts 2:41-43 ESV 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. ------ 41 Kaya't ang mga tumanggap ng kanyang salita ay binautismuhan at nadagdag nang araw na iyon ang may tatlong libong kaluluwa. 42 Nanatili silang matibay sa turo ng mga apostol at sa pagsasama-sama, sa pagpuputul-putol ng tinapay at sa mga pananalangin. 43 Dumating ang takot sa bawat tao at maraming kababalaghan at tanda ang nangyari sa pamamagitan ng mga apostol. MANY SOULS WERE ADDED INTO THE CHURCH Peter, in his inaugural preaching, was used by God greatly so that three thousand souls believed Jesus and got saved. It was no short of a miracle. It’s only explanation was the movement of the Spirit. [Acts 1:8, Zech 4:6] As a testimony to their faith, they obeyed to the ordinance of water baptism. Baptism is as a wedding ring. That when a person wears it, he publicly declares that he is identified with a wife through the covenant of marriage. He is still married even though he won’t wear the ring, is he not? Should you are a truly born again believer, you should obey the ordinance of baptism in fulfilment to the great commission.[Matt 28:19,20] Baptism will be done to those who truly believed only. It’s the cart after the horse, that is, salvation. Thus, we may say this is a believer’s baptism. The believer’s willingness to be baptized is one of the best ways to confirm his genuine conversion. This is the first step of an obedient disciple. These early believers are baptized right upon their conversion. Over the course of history, as more false teaching assaulted the church, training has been done before baptism. This is to ensure that people understand their faith before publicly committing to it. Once someone claims to be saved and has demonstrated they understand what salvation is and the purpose of baptism, there's no theological reason to wait for so long. Baptism is not required for salvation, is it? It should be performed as soon after conversion is examined and ascertained. If a core group of 120 believers had baptized three thousand converts, our churches baptism culture does not need be too complex. Amazingly, in just a matter of hours, the infant church of Jerusalem has grown from 120 (Acts 1:15) to three thousand. And immediately, “they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” That is, they were trained right away to grow in their faith. They were a group of believers who were continually awed of God for He made a lot of wonders and signs through the apostles. Previously, Jesus had told His disciples that the souls as are ripe wheat ready to be harvested (Mat 9:37–38). Did He not tell them that they would do greater works than Him? (John 14:12). Definitely, it was not in power but in scope. This was the start of the influx of believers. For God did add "to their number day by day those who [are] being saved" (Acts 2:47). -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 2:36-41 ESV 36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” 37 Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” 40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. BROTHERS, WHAT SHALL WE DO? Having heard of the gospel from Peter, they were ‘cut to the heart.’ Peter preached Jesus, specially His crucifixion, death and resurrection, nothing else and nothing less. As a result, the people were hurt and asked, “Brothers, what must we do to be saved?” For the first time, they were made aware and had acknowledged their sin. This conviction is a work of the Spirit.[John 16:7-9] A sincere request led to Peter’s challenging them to repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Spirit. It is the same as that given by John, but the addition of Jesus' name is new, which marks the fulfillment of John's prophecy (Luke 3:16). To "repent" is from the Greek root word metanoeo. It means to completely change one's paradigm, to admit error and accept the truth. In the bible, it means to accept the viewpoint of God about the world, Jesus, and oneself, and act accordingly. In other words, Peter called the Jews to admit they were wrong, to accept God's correct view of things, and trust that Jesus has paid for their sins. And, they would show their faith by their obedience in baptism. Baptism should not be confused as a requirement for salvation. We are saved by grace through faith in Christ alone (Eph 2:8–9) Our faith in Christ makes us a genuine believer just as a professional basketball player is made a teammate by signing a contract. Baptism, however is like the uniform. It is just an outward or a public sign. Faith in Christ should result to forgiveness and the indwelling of the Spirit. And this promise is ‘for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.’ Indeed, Jesus' offer of salvation was always meant to be offered to the Jews first, but, equally, it was always meant to be offered to the Gentiles as well (Rom 1:16). Genuine salvation would result in a godly lifestyle. As Peter had implied, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” In fact, Paul had admonished true believers, that they should be “blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” [see Phil 2:15] -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 2:29-35 ESV 29 “Brothers, I may say to you with confidence about the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants on his throne, 31 he foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses. 33 Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing. 34 For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says, “‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, 35 until I make your enemies your footstool.” JESUS IS THE LORD OF DAVID Peter reminded the Jews that the great King David had died and his tomb had existed. However, he has had a covenant with God that his throne would perpetuate. This means a descendant will assume the throne forever. And He is Christ. Thus Peter said, “He foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses.” God's oath to David is known as the "Davidic Covenant" (2 Sam 7:1–17; 1 Chron 17:11–14; Psalm 132:11). That God has said, "your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever" (2 Sam 7:16). This is not a bilateral covenant, like the contract God made with Israel and their kings that if they obeyed Him, He would bless them (Deut 11:26–27). This is a unilateral covenant, like the one God made to Abraham, that Abraham's descendants would become a great nation (Gen 12:1–3) and inherit a large territory (Gen 15:18–21). There was nothing for Abraham and David to do to ensure God would fulfill His promises to them (2 Chron 6:16). It’s based on the sovereign decree of God alone. Thus as a prophet, David exclaimed, “The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.” He called his son His Lord may appear weird. But, just as Mary called Jesus her Savior, David recognized the Messiah Jesus as his Lord. Jesus, who is descended from David both legally through Joseph (Matthew 1:6–16) and biologically through Mary (Luke 3:23–328), is the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise to David. Jesus' place on the throne has been subject to much debate over the centuries. Suffice to say, however, that Jesus now is reigning in the hearts of His followers, is He not? Is He your Lord also as David has expressed? During the millennial kingdom, He will reign in Jerusalem. And He will reign ultimately in eternity. -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 2:22-28 ESV 22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know— 23 this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. 25 For David says concerning him, “‘I saw the Lord always before me, for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken; 26 therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; my flesh also will dwell in hope. 27 For you will not abandon my soul to Hades, or let your Holy One see corruption. 28 You have made known to me the paths of life; you will make me full of gladness with your presence.’ JESUS OF NAZARETH Peter, as he continued to preach, explained who is this Jesus of Nazareth was. This was his summary of the life and works of Jesus. Firstly, he narrated to them that He is genuine as to His claims because of the many wonderful works and miracles that He did. And that, Jesus is the Son of God. The Jews had witnessed these so that they couldn’t deny. Secondly, Jesus has died under the hands of lawless men. Yet, it was not them but God who ‘delivered Jesus up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God to be crucified and killed.” Thus, it was planned before the ages when the death by crucifixion wasn’t invented yet. Jeremiah and Isaiah’s prophecies had outlined His sufferings by crucifixion. Jesus was slain before the foundation of the world.[Rev 13:8] therefore, His death wasn’t incidental. Lastly, Jesus rose from death. It is impossible for death to hold Him. Jesus is the resurrection and the life. He rose to conquer sin, death and hell. This victory had caused Peter quote David’s psalm [Psalm 16”8-11] having been fulfilled. David , having seen this has resolved not to be shaken, to be glad and rejoice. And as a messianic psalm, Jesus won’t be abandoned to Hades, or let Him see corruption. Today, do you believe and hope in Christ as David did? Do you have the same confidence that you won’t be shaken, have hope and gladness in your heart? -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 2:14-21 ESV 14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. 15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. 16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel: 17 “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; 18 even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy. 19 And I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke; 20 the sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day. 21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’” I WILL POUR OUT MY SPIRIT Peter, the leader of the disciples, stood to answer their accusations. The question floating around the crowd was "What does this mean?" (Acts 2:12) What they saw was the start of the fulfilment of Joel’s prophecy. That God will pour His Spirit unto all men, meaning, it would be the Spirit’s work as the church age began. Joel was a prophet in Judah around 835 to 800 BC. His prophecies covered events that are both immediate to his time, including the devastation wrought by a horde of locusts, and also a future event, that is, the beginning years of the church and the end times. In the time of Joel, a huge swarm of locusts destroyed the crops, leaving Judah in famine (Joel 1:1–12). Joel likened the locusts to God's wrath that would fall on His people if they didn't repent (Joel 1:13–20). If they did repent, God would have pity on them (Joel 2:18–27). As a sign of His reconciliation with His people, He would send the Holy Spirit so that the people would prophesy and see visions (Joel 2:28–29). But not everyone would return to God; those who refused God would still see His judgment (Joel 2:30–31) As a typical symbolical book of prophecy, God doesn't mean to say that only sons and daughters will prophesy, or that young men will only receive messages while they're awake and only old men will dream from God when they're sleeping. This just means that "people" will receive "messages" from God in various ways from the Spirit. Are these visions and prophesies for the early church age only? Or are they meant to continue through to the end times? Some parts of the world, people claim tht they have seen visions that led them closer to Jesus. We can’t put God in a box. But the supernatural messages seem to have decreased greatly since the church has compiled the canon of the scriptures that belong in the New Testament. God can do still the supernatural, as He always is, but this is not the norm that we can see as time unfolds. The Scripture is the primary way that God communicates with the world today, is it not? Thus, we must be very careful to validate experiences like seeing visions and the like that all these must be subservient to the Scriptures. -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 2:5-13 ESV 5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 7 And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, 11 both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.” 12 And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” 13 But others mocking said, “They are filled with new wine.” THE NEW WINE As the Holy Spirit descended and alighted unto the disciples, they began to speak in tongues. The Jewish pilgrims, who were devout men from the neighboring nations heard them. Devout means "pious and dutiful." This covers religiously observant Jews as well as proselytes (Acts 2:11). A proselyte is a Gentile who worships the Jewish God in the Jewish way, to the point that he agrees to become circumcised. When applied to a Gentile, "devout" or "righteous" may mean he follows Judaism but is not circumcised. Why were they bewildered when they hear them? As they come together, each one was hearing them speak in his own language. They were hearing the mighty works of God from the disciples. Apparently, their speaking in tongues are languages the disciples spoke which they haven’t previously learned. The understanding of what "speaking in tongues" means is a controversial topic today. Many think it is a special language that only God can understand. Passages like 1 Corinthians 14:2 seem to say speaking tongues is uttering "mysteries in the Spirit." This passage is clear that when someone is inspired by the Holy Spirit to speak in tongues, they are speaking an established, earthly language. It was a miracle. The multitude, perhaps close to a million, was comprised of people speaking diversely to about 15 distinct languages as recorded. All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” But others mocking said, “They are filled with new wine.” Indeed, they were both right and wrong at the same time. Firstly, they were wrong for they were not drinking wine. On the other hand, they were right because being drunk with wine is a metaphor of being filled with the Spirit. Paul said, “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”[Eph 5:18] A drunk person who is controlled by the spirit of the wine will display a different behavior and attitude much different than when he is not. These disciples were not anymore timid as before. They were bold in their witness for Jesus because of the control of the Spirit. -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 2:1-4 ESV When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. THE HOLY SPIRIT DESCENDED AT PENTECOST Their patient waiting upon Jesus’ promise for the baptism with the Holy Spirit paid off (Acts 1:4–5] The Holy Spirit arrived from heaven with a sound like a mighty rushing wind. What's described here is a sound, not a sensation. They heard the sound of wind but they didn't feel a blast of fast-moving air, did they? The “rushing” and “mighty” sound descriptions suggest the power of wind as always understood to be under God’s control. In the Old Testament, He often appeared as some form of wind. For example, He answered to Job from a whirlwind (Job 38:1), to Ezekiel, a stormy wind (Ezekiel 1:4), as a low whisper to Elijah (1 Kings 19:12). And, He filled the room when Solomon dedicated his temple (1 Kings 8:10–11). The word translated as "Spirit" is pneuma, which may meant ‘breath or wind’. However here, the "Holy Spirit" is a person and one of the three members of the Trinity. Let’s recall that the Spirit is the power that can make us be born anew in Christ. Jesus described to Nicodemus the work of the Spirit, saying, "The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit" (John 3:8). Jesus did the work required to reconcile us to God with His sacrifice on the cross. On the other hand, it is the Holy Spirit who indwells those who believe. Moreover, He equips them to further spread that good news – by emboldening believers in their preaching (Acts 4:31), affirming their teaching (Acts 6:10), preparing hearts of people (Acts 8:29,13:2), leading them in what to say (Acts 15:28), and guiding believers (Acts 16:6–7). The Spirit descent during the day of the "Pentecost” signaled the start of the church age. Pentecost is derived from the Greek word for "fiftieth." It falls seven weeks and one day [50 days] after the Sabbath that occurs during the weeklong Feast of Unleavened Bread. It is also called the "Feast of Weeks" because that same period is seven weeks or "a week of weeks." It is given in the Mosaic Law in Lev 23:15–21 and Deut 16:9–12. Thus after Passover, Pentecost is the next major feast for which Jews from all over the Roman Empire will come to Jerusalem in order to bring first of their grain as a free-will offering. On this Pentecost, Jerusalem offers a kind of free-will offering to God. Amazingly, three thousand people believe in Jesus during this day (Acts 2:41). -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 1:15-26 ESV 20b “‘Let another take his office.’ 21 So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” 23 And they put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also called Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen 25 to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. THE REPLACEMENT Somebody has to replace Judas, that is, to "take his office" (Psalm 109:8). This would apply to the people sitting in the upper room. The word "office" is from the Greek root word episkopē from which we get our word episcopal. Jesus promised the twelve disciples that when He reigns they will "sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel" (Mat 19:28). Since Judas was disqualified from such a service, the remaining apostles need to find a replacement. Peter sets the qualifications for Judas' replacement. Jesus had said the apostles will be His "witnesses" (Acts 1:8), so they need someone who has witnessed Jesus. Throughout Jesus' three-year ministry, the Twelve disciples followed Him wherever He went. However, there were crowds who joined them regularly, even when they weren't wanted (Mat 4:23–25; Mark 3:7–10). Some would have stayed as long as they could, traveling with Jesus as excited fans following their favorite band. Peter articulated that the man must have been with them from the day of Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist until the ascension. After consideration, they narrowed down to two qualified candidates - Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. (Acts 1:22–23). Not so much information could we see about them. "Barsabbas" is Aramaic and means "son of God's will" or "son of Sabbath." It may be a nickname, meaning he devoutly follows the Sabbath. Joseph is his proper name, but like many at that time, he also has a Roman name, Justus. Historian Eusebius says Matthias was one of the Seventy (Luke 10:1–12, 17–20). When the group in the upper room casts lots, Matthias is chosen (Acts 1:26). They prayed again for guidance. Praying for potential leaders becomes a valued tradition in the church for roles like evangelists (Acts 13:2) and church elders (Acts 14:23). Even Jesus prayed before He picked out the Twelve (Luke 6:12–13).God promises that if we pray for wisdom, He will give it to us (James 1:5). God knows who will make the best apostle because He already determined what work each man would do (Eph 2:10). God knows the hearts of people where we only see on the surface (1 Samuel 16:7; Mark 2:8, 10:17–31; John 2:23–25). Literally, it is read, "You, Lord, heart-knower of all…" God is the only being whose identity and character include the knowledge and understanding of our thoughts, feelings, desires, and intentions. As such, only He can know whether Joseph or Matthias is the right man to replace Judas and take his responsibilities (Acts 1:20). The only other place "heart-knower" is used is in Acts 15:8 when Peter affirms that when it comes to inherent righteousness, Jews are no different than Gentiles. -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 1:15-26 ESV 15 In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (the company of persons was in all about 120) and said, 16 “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. 17 For he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry.” 18 (Now this man acquired a field with the reward of his wickedness, and falling headlong he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the field was called in their own language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) 20 “For it is written in the Book of Psalms, “‘May his camp become desolate, and let there be no one to dwell in it’; SO NEAR YET SO FAR After Jesus went up to heaven, about 120 of His followers awaited in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit, spending their time praying (Acts 1:14) and worshiping God (Luke 24:52–53). In one of those days, Peter stood up and addressed the group. The Holy Spirit has given him clarity about the need to replace Judas Iscariot, one of the original twelve apostles. He betrayed Jesus and killed himself (Mat 27:5). Judas’ treachery was known to Jesus[ John 13:21-26]. He warned the disciples during His last supper with them that one of them would betray Him. It was not clear to them who he was until Jesus was arrested with Judas kiss. Here, Peter pointed out that David had prophesied this treachery, saying, "For it is not an enemy who taunts me—then I could bear it; it is not an adversary who deals insolently with me—then I could hide from him. But it is you, a man, my equal, my companion, my familiar friend" (Psalm 55:12–13). Peter knew that Judas' betrayal was predetermined by God, even planned by God (John 17:12). But, Judas was responsible for his choices. We recall that just after Jesus had given Judas the bread, Satan entered into him [Joh 13:27-30] He went outside to arrange the arrest of Jesus with the Jewish leaders for 30 pieces of silver[Matt 26:14-16] The rest is history. Peter recalled him as one was "numbered among" them. This means he was included in all the rollcalls of the twelve disciples (Mark 3:16–19; Luke 6:13–16). He joined in with Jesus and everyone else in the ministry to teach, heal, and expel demons (Mark 6:7–13). Ironically, Isaiah described Jesus as one "numbered with the transgressors" (Isaiah 53:12)—a reference to His death, Did not this foreshadow His association with Judas? Verses 18 and 19 are a footnotes from Luke. Luke, a doctor, gives a more detailed account. Why? Luke felt Theophilus needed more context in this letter. Apparently, Judas' body fell from its hanging place. It's entirely possible that he'd been left there for sometime—either undiscovered or deliberately ignored. In such a case, gasses would have collected in Judas' abdomen. A grotesque picture Judas received the "the reward of his wickedness" which referredliterally to the thirty pieces of silver he received for betraying Jesus (Matt 26:14–16). This was the amount of money the owner of an ox had to give the owner of a slave the ox killed (Exodus 21:32). Indeed, unbeknownst to Judas, he became the slave of the wicked Jewish leaders. Whatever happened in Judas' mind and heart, he tried to return the silver, but was denied by the chief priests. Instead, they used the money to buy a field and called it Akeldama [Field of Blood]. Somewhat fittingly, they used it for a cemetery, a dreadful place. Judas deceptive life and tragic end should make us aware that we could be so near to Christ yet so far. Certainly, the problem was his heart – impervious to the promptings of God.

Acts 1:12-14 ESV 12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey away. 13 And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers. ONE ACCORD IN PRAYER The Mount of Olives is actually a ridge with three summits, stretching two miles north to south, east of Jerusalem. Jesus took the disciples "as far as Bethany" (Luke 24:50), told them to expect the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5), and rose into the clouds (Acts 1:9). And Bethany is on the far, east side, about a mile and a half from Jerusalem. In the bible, a Sabbath day's journey is less than a mile, so that the exact travel of the disciples was unclear. The disciples stood stunned at the sudden departure of their teacher and friend. Jesus was no more with them physically but they have each other. They will gather in an upper room to pray, about 120 people in all (Acts 1:13–15). As they waited for the promised Holy Spirit, their first task was to pray, wait and seek God's guidance. Prayer should transcend any barriers. The disciples, Mary the mother of Jesus, Jesus’ brothers, men and women of diverse educational and economic backgrounds including children had gathered in one accord in prayer. Let’s take notice that the phrase "one accord”, translated as "one mind" in the NASB. It denotes harmony or several individuals, collectively moving forward gracefully. It is one of the defining characteristics that God designs for the church, for it is founded in "the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph 4:3). The church is one - one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father (Eph 4:4–6). Everyone should strive to function with "all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love" (Eph 4:2). Could the apostles, the devout women, Jesus' brothers, and the other disciples of the 120 sit in unity unless God is at their center? Their waiting lasted about nine days between Jesus' ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit. They had spent this time in the upper room, praying, and in the temple, worshiping and blessing God (Luke 24:52–53). This worshiping and seeking God does make all believers as united people, does it not? Definitely, prayer was first and foremost of the early church. Should not prayer be the number one priority that we should pursue in our private and collective lives? Prayer is simple as children talking with their dad. When a child is talking to his father, is there a wrong grammar? No. Only a wrong heart. -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 1:9-11 ESV 9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” WHY DO YOU STAND LOOKING INTO HEAVEN? The disciples and their company at Mt. Olives saw Jesus lifted up and disappeared into the clouds. The cloud has significant meaning in the bible, especially about God’s dealings with Israel. The pillar of cloud led the Israelites through the wilderness (Ex 13:21). When the Jews camped at Mt. Sinai, God covered the mountain in cloud and smoke to show the people the authority He was giving Moses (Ex 19:9, 16–18). When Solomon brought the ark of the covenant into the new temple, God filled the whole building with a cloud of His glory so thick the priests had to flee (1 Kings 8:10–11). In the New Testament, God showed to Peter, James, and John the glory of Jesus during the transfiguration, wherein He spoke to them from a cloud (Mark 9:7). And when Jesus will return someday, during the rapture (1 Thess 4:16–17) and the second coming (Rev 1:7), He will come with clouds. All such cases illustrate the ‘shekinah glory of God, His glorious dwelling with His people. God's glory is so great we can only experience it if it is veiled as if covered by clouds. Soon, according to Paul, we will see God clearly (2 Cor 3:12–18). The sight of Jesus’ ascension must have been very captivating that stunned the disciples. They stared unto heaven for awhile. Thus, the angels said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” They were always hoping that this kingdom eventually be realized which included an Israel freed from Roman rule and the twelve thrones for the twelve apostles set up (Luke 22:30). Their hope now rises into the sky with Jesus. Their expectations were not met as yet. God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours.[Isa 55:8,9] The kingdom will surely be realized but not so soon. Jesus had warned them that hardships will come. But, they should be of good cheer for He overcomes the world. [John 16:33] The same Jesus they saw who went up into heaven will come again. Thus, we should be ‘waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.’ In what ways? By living a pure life as His redeemed people zealous for good works. [Titus 2:13,14] -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 1:1-5 ESV In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, 2 until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. 3 He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. 4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” WAIT FOR THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER The Acts of the Apostles is Luke's second book to Theophilus, the first being the Gospel of Luke. Who is Theophilus? Luke gives him the title "most excellent," from ‘krastistos’ in Greek, suggesting he is in the Roman military's equestrian corps [Luke 1:3] From this unit is taken the procurators of Judea (Acts 24:2; 26:25) Moreover, during Paul's first imprisonment (Acts 28:30), Roman persecution of Christianity is heating up and a government official would not be immune from danger (Acts 28:22). Most probably, Luke as he wrote this second letter, had used a pseudonym Theophilus [lover of God] to hide the identity of a Christ-follower who holds a high rank in the local government. Luke had written in his first book [the book of Luke] about the life and teaching of Jesus. Luke has not met Jesus personally. But, he has an ample time during Paul's imprisonment in Caesarea Maritima (Acts 24—26) to interview the apostles for details of Jesus' ministry. After Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, he emphasized that Jesus has appeared and reiterated the manifestation of the kingdom of God. He did spend time explaining how the Old Testament Scriptures has prophesied His death and resurrection (Luke 24:27, 45) Jesus’ instruction include the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16–20) and for them to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49]. That, the disciples should not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me, for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” Since Jesus has risen from the dead as he said, we should not doubt about His promises, should we? He who proved His words as true should earn our trust in all areas of our lives. Certainly, He would fulfill His promises. However, we’ve got to wait patiently. As, the writer of Hebrews said, “Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”[Heb 10:35,36] Waiting for that which come surely provides strength. David says, “I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”[Psa 27:13,14] This was corroborated by Isaiah, who wrote, ”but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”[Isa 40:31] -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Acts 1:1-5 ESV In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, 2 until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. 3 He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. 4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” WAIT FOR THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER The Acts of the Apostles is Luke's second book to Theophilus, the first being the Gospel of Luke. Who is Theophilus? Luke gives him the title "most excellent," from ‘krastistos’ in Greek, suggesting he is in the Roman military's equestrian corps [Luke 1:3] From this unit is taken the procurators of Judea (Acts 24:2; 26:25) Moreover, during Paul's first imprisonment (Acts 28:30), Roman persecution of Christianity is heating up and a government official would not be immune from danger (Acts 28:22). Most probably, Luke as he wrote this second letter, had used a pseudonym Theophilus [lover of God] to hide the identity of a Christ-follower who holds a high rank in the local government. Luke had written in his first book [the book of Luke] about the life and teaching of Jesus. Luke has not met Jesus personally. But, he has an ample time during Paul's imprisonment in Caesarea Maritima (Acts 24—26) to interview the apostles for details of Jesus' ministry. After Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, he emphasized that Jesus has appeared and reiterated the manifestation of the kingdom of God. He did spend time explaining how the Old Testament Scriptures has prophesied His death and resurrection (Luke 24:27, 45) Jesus’ instruction include the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16–20) and for them to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49]. That, the disciples should not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me, for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” Since Jesus has risen from the dead as he said, we should not doubt about His promises, should we? He who proved His words as true should earn our trust in all areas of our lives. Certainly, He would fulfill His promises. However, we’ve got to wait patiently. As, the writer of Hebrews said, “Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”[Heb 10:35,36] Waiting for that which come surely provides strength. David says, “I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”[Psa 27:13,14] This was corroborated by Isaiah, who wrote, ”but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”[Isa 40:31] -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Neh 13:23-31 ESV 23 In those days also I saw the Jews who had married women of Ashdod, Ammon, and Moab. 24 And half of their children spoke the language of Ashdod, and they could not speak the language of Judah, but only the language of each people. 25 And I confronted them and cursed them and beat some of them and pulled out their hair. And I made them take an oath in the name of God, saying, “You shall not give your daughters to their sons, or take their daughters for your sons or for yourselves. 26 Did not Solomon king of Israel sin on account of such women? Among the many nations there was no king like him, and he was beloved by his God, and God made him king over all Israel. Nevertheless, foreign women made even him to sin. 27 Shall we then listen to you and do all this great evil and act treacherously against our God by marrying foreign women?” 28 And one of the sons of Jehoiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was the son-in-law of Sanballat the Horonite. Therefore I chased him from me. 29 Remember them, O my God, because they have desecrated the priesthood and the covenant of the priesthood and the Levites. 30 Thus I cleansed them from everything foreign, and I established the duties of the priests and Levites, each in his work; 31 and I provided for the wood offering at appointed times, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, for good. REMEMBER ME, O MY GOD, FOR GOOD. While Nehemiah was away, the Israelites had resumed their practice of intermarriage with the pagan nations surrounding them. He confronted them and cursed them and beat some of them and pulled out their hair. And I made them take an oath in the name of God, saying, “You shall not give your daughters to their sons, or take their daughters for your sons or for yourselves”. His strong reaction of pulling their hair out has demonstrated his utter disgust against this most dangerous of their sins - pursing ungodly romance with pagans. They had forgotten King Solomon’s blunder and the sad consequences that they had experienced. Pagan women who he married had caused his heart to turn away from God. If Solomon, one of the wisest and most blessed men who ever lived, had sinned with unwise and ungodly romance then no one else should consider himself invulnerable or untouchable. It seems that Israel was struggling in the exact sins they vowed to stop earlier. In Nehemiah 10 the people made a solemn covenant to God that they would not do three things: have ungodly romantic relationships (10:30), buy and sell on the Sabbath (10:31), and support the work of God with money as He commanded (10:32-39). Yet, in just one decade, Nehemiah had to address the problems of ungodly romantic relationships (13:23-31), buying and selling on the Sabbath (13:15-22), and failing to support the work of God as He commanded (13:10-14). This makes a point very clear, that is, the sinfulness of man and activities of the flesh did not go away after the wall was built. Did, Nehemiah feel he had failed? Perhaps! At the beginning, He was fasted and grieved by the sins of the people and his forefathers as the cause of their miseries. Nevertheless, Nehemiah had expressed his faithfulness through his prayer, saying, “Thus I cleansed them from everything foreign, and I established the duties of the priests and Levites, each in his work; and I provided for the wood offering at appointed times, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, for good.” Nehemiah pleaded only on the basis of God’s grace and mercy. -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Neh 13:19-22 ESV 19 As soon as it began to grow dark at the gates of Jerusalem before the Sabbath, I commanded that the doors should be shut and gave orders that they should not be opened until after the Sabbath. And I stationed some of my servants at the gates, that no load might be brought in on the Sabbath day. 20 Then the merchants and sellers of all kinds of wares lodged outside Jerusalem once or twice. 21 But I warned them and said to them, “Why do you lodge outside the wall? If you do so again, I will lay hands on you.” From that time on they did not come on the Sabbath. 22 Then I commanded the Levites that they should purify themselves and come and guard the gates, to keep the Sabbath day holy. Remember this also in my favor, O my God, and spare me according to the greatness of your steadfast love. SPIRITUAL DECISIVENESS Nehemiah was both tough and tender leader. He was compassionate but not a coward. As one who revered God, he was very courageous to make radical and crucial decisions. The disregard of the Sabbath’s observance was not a small matter that he would just tolerate. He had to drastically restore the Sabbath observance and temple worship. He commanded that the doors should be shut and gave orders that they should not be opened until after the Sabbath. And he stationed some of his servants at the gates, that no load might be brought in on the Sabbath day. Nehemiah wasn't going to tolerate the merchants and sellers of all kinds of wares to lodge outside Jerusalem. He threatened them saying, “if you do so again, I will lay hands on you!” He did not mean the gentle laying on of hands for prayer, but the rough laying on of hands for correction. In other words, he did everything to remove the possibility that they will break the Sabbath again. Spiritual decisiveness is a result of clear and strong convictions. A believer who is totally committed to please God is not unequivocal in his stand against sin. That is, an open sin is always black and could not become gray. That a sin is always ugly and shameful before the holy God. One won’t stop doing his sinful lifestyle that he can justify or rationalize. May we will hate sin as God does. Furthermore, he was determined to restore the Levites to their duties. That they have to purify themselves and come and guard the gates, to keep the Sabbath day holy. Believers should not be famous only to what we don’t do but also to what we do. As His children, are we famous by what we don’t do [no vices, etc] more than what we do[like worship, serving others, etc]? May, we will always shine for God by our good works.[Matt 5:16] -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Neh 13:15-18 ESV 15 In those days I saw in Judah people treading winepresses on the Sabbath, and bringing in heaps of grain and loading them on donkeys, and also wine, grapes, figs, and all kinds of loads, which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day. And I warned them on the day when they sold food. 16 Tyrians also, who lived in the city, brought in fish and all kinds of goods and sold them on the Sabbath to the people of Judah, in Jerusalem itself! 17 Then I confronted the nobles of Judah and said to them, “What is this evil thing that you are doing, profaning the Sabbath day? 18 Did not your fathers act in this way, and did not our God bring all this disaster on us and on this city? Now you are bringing more wrath on Israel by profaning the Sabbath.” SETTING PRIORITIES RIGHT Nehemiah had warned the men of Judah sternly. They were treading wine presses on the Sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and loading donkeys with wine, grapes, figs, and all kinds of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day. Foreigners [from Tyre] sold and the people of Israel bought. There is nothing wrong in engaging a business. It is when buying and selling become more important to a person than honoring God. Jesus said one can’t serve both God and mammon. Earning money was more important than earning the favor of God. Today, we are not under the law of the Sabbath in the same sense Israel was under the Old Covenant (Col 2:16-17); but we are certainly under the same obligation to make honoring God more important than making money or spending money. According to Nehemiah, they haven’t learned their lesson from the past. Thus Nehemiah said, “What is this evil thing that you are doing, profaning the Sabbath day? 18 Did not your fathers act in this way, and did not our God bring all this disaster on us and on this city? Now you are bringing more wrath on Israel by profaning the Sabbath.” Should they continue, God’s hand of chastisement would fall unto them. Should we not learn from history, we are bound to repeat it. Let’s not forget today. It’s by honoring God that God would honor us.[1 Sam 2:30]. Let’s ‘seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you[us].”[Matt 6:33] -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Neh 13:10-14 ESV 10 I also found out that the portions of the Levites had not been given to them, so that the Levites and the singers, who did the work, had fled each to his field. 11 So I confronted the officials and said, “Why is the house of God forsaken?” And I gathered them together and set them in their stations. 12 Then all Judah brought the tithe of the grain, wine, and oil into the storehouses. 13 And I appointed as treasurers over the storehouses Shelemiah the priest, Zadok the scribe, and Pedaiah of the Levites, and as their assistant Hanan the son of Zaccur, son of Mattaniah, for they were considered reliable, and their duty was to distribute to their brothers. 14 Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and do not wipe out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God and for his service. WHY IS THE HOUSE OF GOD FORSAKEN? Sadly, Nehemiah found out that the Levites and singers had left their temple service . They went to the fields to work. What’s the reason? They lack the support. That is, the people did not obey God's word regarding giving. By so doing, the house of God was forsaken. For the Lord had spoken to Moses, saying, “Only the tribe of Levi you shall not number, nor shall you take their census among the sons of Israel. But you shall appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the testimony, and over all its furnishings and over all that belongs to it. They shall carry the tabernacle and all its furnishings, and they shall take care of it; they shall also camp around the tabernacle. So when the tabernacle is to set out, the Levites shall take it down; and when the tabernacle encamps, the Levites shall set it up. But the layman who comes near shall be put to death. The sons of Israel shall camp, each man by his own camp, and each man by his own standard, according to their armies. But the Levites shall camp around the tabernacle of the testimony, so that there will be no wrath on the congregation of the sons of Israel. So the Levites shall keep charge of the tabernacle of the testimony.”[Num 1:48-53] Moses further wrote, “I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting. . . . They will receive no inheritance among the Israelites. Instead, I give to the Levites as their inheritance the tithes that the Israelites present as an offering to the Lord. That is why I said concerning them: ‘They will have no inheritance among the Israelites’” (Num 18: 21, 23–24). Today, churches should definitely provide for the financial needs of its pastor(s) and any other full-time ministers. As Paul declared, “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” We pay people to prepare and serve our physical food; shouldn’t we also be willing to pay those who see to our spiritual food? And, honestly, which is more important—physical food or spiritual fod, based on Matthew 4:4? Even Paul had added, “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, ‘Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,’ and ‘The worker deserves his wages.’” [1 Tim 5:17-18] Instead of neglecting them, church elders should be honored, and this honor includes wages. Those elders who serve the church well, especially teachers and preachers must be supported. In fact, they should receive double honor for they have earned it. Won’t it be cruel to work an ox while denying it the grain? Likewise, we should take care and not to treat our pastors cruelly, should we not? Let them share in the material blessings of the congregation they serve. Our pastors are worth more than many oxen are they not?

Neh 13:4-9 ESV 4 Now before this, Eliashib the priest, who was appointed over the chambers of the house of our God, and who was related to Tobiah, 5 prepared for Tobiah a large chamber where they had previously put the grain offering, the frankincense, the vessels, and the tithes of grain, wine, and oil, which were given by commandment to the Levites, singers, and gatekeepers, and the contributions for the priests. 6 While this was taking place, I was not in Jerusalem, for in the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon I went to the king. And after some time I asked leave of the king 7 and came to Jerusalem, and I then discovered the evil that Eliashib had done for Tobiah, preparing for him a chamber in the courts of the house of God. 8 And I was very angry, and I threw all the household furniture of Tobiah out of the chamber. 9 Then I gave orders, and they cleansed the chambers, and I brought back there the vessels of the house of God, with the grain offering and the frankincense. THE EVIL WITHIN After their remarkable revival, Nehemiah went back to his palace duties at Persia for around 10 to 12 years. When Nehemiah came back, he found out that Eliashib the priest had entered into agreements with one of the enemies of Nehemiah's work of rebuilding the wall - Tobiah. As an Ammonite (see Neh2:10), Tobiah was one of the very mixed multitude that had been expelled out of the assembly of God's people some 10 years earlier. However, after 10 years, he was back for having rented rooms in the temple courts. Certainly, he had not changed over the years. He did not join the people of God in the terms of His covenant but was successful in persuading Eliashib, who was oblivious to its danger. Tobiah, like our flesh, was both deceptive and relentless. He kept coming back. Even though we maybe are becoming matured, our flesh is still the same monster that can devour us should we are careless. Hence, Paul had admonished us by saying, “Do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh.”[Gal 5:13] Let’s walk in the Spirit then and not fulfill he lusts of the flesh.[Gal 5:16] Nehemiah, upon knowing it, was distressed. Was the revival real after all? He left for sometime after the remarkable spiritual revival as noted previously. But, isn’t the real test of God's work in our lives, lasting or long term? It is seeing that they were serving our Lord faithfully after ten years of God’s great work of revival. How come Eliashib, a spiritual leader, had entered into agreements with one of their enemies? That the rooms in the courts of the temple of God were being occupied by a man not only a pagan, but who also had a history of actively opposing God's work? You would know the values of the person by what grieves him. What grieves our hearts? Does sin and compromises grieve our hearts like Nehemiah? Thus like Jesus, he threw all Tobiah's stuff out of the rooms he occupied in the temple courts. Then, he ceremonially cleansed the rooms, and finally brought back the rooms to their proper use - as storerooms for the sacred things of the temple. -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Neh 13:1-3 ESV On that day they read from the Book of Moses in the hearing of the people. And in it was found written that no Ammonite or Moabite should ever enter the assembly of God, 2 for they did not meet the people of Israel with bread and water, but hired Balaam against them to curse them—yet our God turned the curse into a blessing. 3 As soon as the people heard the law, they separated from Israel all those of foreign descent. OBEDIENCE IS THE VERY BEST WAY “Obedience is the very best way to show that you believe. Doing exactly as the Lord commands, doing it happily. Action is the key, do it immediately, joy you will receive. Obedience is the very best way to show that you believe. We want to live pure, we want to live `clean, we want to do our best. Sweetly submitting to authority, leaving to God the rest. Walking in the light, keeping our attitude right, on the narrow way. For if we believe the Word we receive, we always will obey.” This is the 1st and 2nd stanzas of the children song entitled, “Obedience is the very best way’. Nothing could be further from the truth. Obedience results to blessings. Otherwise, God would discipline us or our disobedience. James has corroborated the blessings of obedience and the futility of disobedience. He writes, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.”[Jas 1:22-25] James has corroborated the blessings of obedience and futility of disobedience. He writes, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.”[Jas 1:22-25] -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Neh 12:44-47 ESV 44 On that day men were appointed over the storerooms, the contributions, the firstfruits, and the tithes, to gather into them the portions required by the Law for the priests and for the Levites according to the fields of the towns, for Judah rejoiced over the priests and the Levites who ministered. 45 And they performed the service of their God and the service of purification, as did the singers and the gatekeepers, according to the command of David and his son Solomon. 46 For long ago in the days of David and Asaph there were directors of the singers, and there were songs of praise and thanksgiving to God. 47 And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel and in the days of Nehemiah gave the daily portions for the singers and the gatekeepers; and they set apart that which was for the Levites; and the Levites set apart that which was for the sons of Aaron. A GREAT JOYFUL GIVING It’s quite notable that the book ends with a high note. From being miserable to become a merry people. From wanting to having wealth. Their joy in the Lord results to generosity. It is one thing to give and it’s another thing to give out of joy. On that dedication day, “men were appointed over the storerooms, the contributions, the firstfruits, and the tithes, to gather into them the portions required by the Law for the priests and for the Levites according to the fields of the towns, for Judah rejoiced over the priests and the Levites who ministered.” A vibrant life is attractive. Judah rejoiced over the priests and the Levites who ministered. Nobody would come near to a pouting person. But, everyone loves to be with a buoyant personality. At first they were grieved because of their sins. But, at the end of the day, they were joyful because of God’s goodness and grace. Rejoicing in worship doesn’t mean no restraint, is it? They performed the service of their God and the service of purification, as did the singers and the gatekeepers, according to the command of David and his son Solomon. Joy and holiness aren’t mutually exclusive, are they? We rejoice in being consecrated or being set apart unto God and is grieved when we sinned against Him. As John Piper says, “God is most glorified in us if we are the most satisfied in Him.” As a result, the daily portions were provided for the singers and the gatekeepers; and that which was for the Levites; and that which was for the sons of Aaron. There was no lack for those who are working in the temple for everyone has the joy to give. Is your giving unto the Lord joyful? As Paul said, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”[2 Cor 9:6,7] -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram