Bible Pathway - Oct. 31, 2009
Highlights In Today's Reading:
The mock trials, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Don't miss a word of this soul-stirring description of how Jesus carried the shame of a world of sin that He might save us. Praise the Lord! He lives (24:23)!
The women who had followed Jesus were walking toward the borrowed, rock-hewn tomb of Joseph of Arimathea, where the body of their Lord had been hastily lain. It was yet dark (John 20:1) upon the first day of the week (Luke 24:1).
Foremost in their minds was: Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? . . . for it was very great (Mark 16:3-4). These women's love for Christ urged them onward and they soon discovered their cause for concern had vanished (Luke 24:2).
Like the women, our love for the Lord and His Word should be unaffected by opposition or difficulties. It will continue to show its loyalty and service, not waiting for the last hour of necessity, but, instead, looking for the first moment of opportunity.
The women had come to the tomb to complete the burial procedures. But when they entered in they found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass . . . behold, two men stood by them in shining garments. . . . (and) they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen (24:3-6).
His words had been fulfilled: I have power to lay it (My life) down, and I have power to take it again (John 10:18). The two men went on to say: Remember how He spake unto you when He was yet in Galilee, Saying, The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise (from death) again (Luke 24:6-7). The women rushed to joyfully relate their glorious discovery to the disciples.
When our problems seem overwhelming, we too are tempted to ask: Who shall roll us away the stone? But as we move forward in faith and loving service, we will be amazed at how the hindrances disappear. Yes, angels do go before us for they are all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation (Heb. 1:14).
Despite Jesus' teaching, neither the women nor the doubting Apostles were expecting such a glorious experience on that resurrection morning. Jesus' mission was completed — the last enemy was destroyed (I Cor. 15:26) — for in His hands He now held the keys of hell and of death (Rev. 1:18).
Thought for Today:
I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth (Job 19:25).
Word Studies:
23:5 Jewry =the Judean region; 23:19 for . . . sedition =for having started a riot; 23:23 instant =insistent or persistent; 23:29 paps =breasts; 23:32 malefactors =criminals, ones who do evil; 24:29 far spent =almost over.
Cross References:
For Luke 23:30: See Hos. 10:8. Luke 23:34: See Ps. 22:18.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • Government Official: Rep. John Barrow (GA) • Country: Israel (6.1 million) in the Middle East • Major languages: Hebrew and Arabic • Witnessing to Jews about Christ the Messiah is actively discouraged • 80.2% Jewish (mostly secular); 14.6% Muslim (largely Sunni); 2.1% Christian; 1.6% Druze; 1.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord with all of your heart, and tell others of the marvelous things He has done (Ps. 73:28).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:20
