Context Summary Matthew 2:1–12 describes the arrival in Jerusalem of a group of wise men, sometime after Jesus’ birth. They are responding to the sight of a ”star” in the night sky, leading them to conclude the ”king of the Jews” had been born. King Herod is troubled by this…

(Read Isaiah 7:10–16) Secret disaffection to God is often disguised with the colour of respect to him; and those who are resolved that they will not trust God, yet pretend they will not tempt him. The prophet reproved Ahaz and his court, for the little value they had for Divine revelation…

Context Summary Isaiah 5:8–30 contains Isaiah’s dire predictions about the upcoming judgment of Israel. The first “woes” are to the greedy and the pleasure-seeking drinkers. They will go into exile and to the grave for refusing to acknowledge God. The Lord then will be exalted for restoring justice and righteousness…

Context Summary Matthew 25:31–46 describes Jesus’ epic judgment, to take place when He returns as King with His angels and takes His place on the throne. He will divide those judged into two groups: “sheep” and “goats.” The sheep will be welcomed and praised for serving those in need. The…

(Read Numbers 28:1–8) God saw fit now to repeat the law of sacrifices. This was a new generation of men; and they were concerned to keep their peace with God when at war with their enemies. The daily sacrifice is called a continual burnt-offering; when we are bid to pray…

First Corinthians 6:1–11 details Paul’s objections to Christians taking another to secular court over a minor issue. Believers will one day judge the world and angels. They should be able to judge small disputes amongst themselves. It would be better for a believer to be defrauded than to ask unbelievers…

(Read Psalm 118:1–18) The account the psalmist here gives of his troubles is very applicable to Christ: many hated him without a cause; nay, the Lord himself chastened him sorely, bruised him, and put him to grief, that by his stripes we might be healed. God is sometimes the strength…

Chapter Contents David’s struggle with, and triumph over a strong temptation to distrust God, and betake himself to indirect means for his own safety, in a time of danger. Those that truly fear God and serve him, are welcome to put their trust in him. The psalmist, before he gives an account…

(Read Jeremiah 5:1–9) None could be found who behaved as upright and godly men. But the Lord saw the true character of the people through all their disguises. The poor were ignorant, and therefore they were wicked. What can be expected but works of darkness, from people that know nothing…