Bible Pathways - March 4, 2007
In Today's Scripture Reading:
Keep the Commandments; reminder of parents' rebellion, golden calf; the second tablets of stone
Jesus began His earthly ministry by quoting from Deuteronomy: Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4; compare Deuteronomy 8:3). This was His response to Satan who tempted Jesus to make bread for Himself from stones after His 40-day fast in the desert: If Thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread (Matthew 4:3), meaning: "Since You are the Son of God, why should You, of all people, need to remain hungry?"
False prophets will quote Scripture (out of context) to support their agendas. Satan quoted Scripture, but only the portion that would apply to his temptation. Jesus again quoted Deuteronomy after the second temptation, saying: It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God (4:7; Deuteronomy 6:16). By quoting Scripture, Satan attempted to lure Jesus into using His Deity to satisfy His physical need, and consequently disqualify Himself to redeem sinners. But, Jesus again quoted Scripture: It is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve (Matthew 4:10; Deuteronomy 6:13).
Throughout His ministry, Jesus quoted Scripture when answering His critics and set an example for us to whom He also said: He that hath My Commandments, and keepeth (obeys) them, he it is that loveth Me. . . . If a man love Me, he will keep My words (John 14:21-23).
A vital key to overcoming Satan is knowing God's Word through which we are empowered to be overcomers. For the Word of God is quick (living), and powerful (Hebrews 4:12) and it is the only means Jesus used to defeat Satan. As we continue reading all of God's Word, the Holy Spirit brings it to our minds when it is needed.
We need to remember Moses' warning to Israel: Beware that thou forget not the Lord thy God, in not keeping His Commandments. . . . And thou say in thine heart (to yourself), My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is He that giveth thee power to get wealth (Deuteronomy 8:11,17-18).
After reviewing the Commandments, Moses added: What doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, To keep the Commandments of the Lord . . . for thy good (benefit)? (Deuteronomy 10:12-13).
Word Studies:
10:16 Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart =b> the physical symbol of Israel's separation, circumcision, was to be a symbol of their love, submission, and loyalty to God; stiffnecked =b> stubborn and hardened.
Christ Revealed:
Through the shittim (acacia) wood used to make the Ark of the Covenant (Deuteronomy 10:3). Acacia wood, a desert growth, is symbolic of Christ in His human form.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The English International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in memory of Robert Turner Government Official: Gov. Rick Perry (TX) and Rep. Christopher Smith (NJ) Country: Hong Kong (7 million) in eastern Asia Major languages: Chinese and English Limited religious freedom 90% Chinese religions; 10% Protestant Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your heart to God in prayer (Lamentations 3:41).
Optional Reading: Luke 19
Memory Verse for the Week: Joshua 1:8
