ScriptureWay
  • Home
  • Site Overview
  • Author
  • Resources
    • Bible Verses about the Angel of the Lord in the Old Testament
    • Bible Verses About Courage
    • Bible Verses About the Cross
    • Bible Verses About Eternal Life
    • Bible Verses About Humility and Being Humble
    • Bible Verses - "I AM"s of Christ
    • Bible Verses about Music
    • Bible Verses About Old Age and Gray Hair
    • Bible Verses about Paradise
    • Bible Verses About Sound Speech
    • Bible Verses for Times of Crisis
    • 29 BIble Verses About Trusting God
    • 11 Bible Verses About Waiting for the Lord
    • Bible Study Tools
    • Whitneytunes Music Videos
    • Whitneytunes Worship Music
  • The Way to Heaven

Bible Teachings

One Thing Needful

6/19/2023

0 Comments

 
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this post.
Images by FreeBibleImages.org - used under license
"… but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the best part; it will not be taken away from her."
     Read Luke 10:38-42 (RSV): "Now as they went on their way, he entered a village; and a woman named Martha received him into her house.  (39) And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching.  (40) But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, 'Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone?  Tell her then to help me.'  (41) But the Lord answered her, 'Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; (42) one thing is needful.  Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.'" 

     Consider.  Are you like Mary, listening to Jesus' word and receiving his guidance?  Are you like Martha, gifted in serving others, but becoming overly busy and anxious?  What is the one thing needful?

1. Martha welcomed Jesus as a guest into her home

Martha Welcomes Jesus as a Guest Into Her HomeMartha Welcomes Jesus as a Guest Into Her Home
     Luke 10:38 tells us that when Jesus and his disciples were traveling to Jerusalem, Martha welcomed him as a guest into her home.  Martha was the "mistress of the house," the head of the household (Ref. 1, Ref. 2).  The Greek word translated as "welcomed" or "received" in Luke 10:38 means that Martha was personally responsible for seeing to Jesus' needs while he was under her roof (HELPS word-studies - Ref. 3). 


2. Mary chose to sit at Jesus feet and was listening to him

     Mary, too, was eager to give Jesus a fitting reception.  Luke 10:39-40 and 42 tell us that she left Martha in making preparations and instead chose [decided, made a deliberate choice] to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to his word (Ref. 4).  In the ancient world, sitting at a teacher's feet -- literally and figuratively -- was the posture of disciples or learners (2 Kings 4:38, Luke 8:35, Acts 22:3, Ref. 5).  By her action, Mary showed that she was willing to receive Jesus' word and give up herself to the guidance of Christ -- the one thing needful (Ref. 6).

3. Martha was distracted with much serving

     Luke 10:40 tells us that Martha was "distracted with much serving."  Note that "serving" [Greek word diakonia - ministry - Ref. 7] is one of the "gifts of grace" that the Apostle Paul mentions in Romans 12:6-8.  Martha was gifted at serving others (John 12:1-2).  However, in Luke 10:40-41 Martha became so "distracted" [literally drawn away] by the many tasks she was doing that she was drawn away from listening to Jesus and his word (Ref. 8).

4. Jesus tenderly reproved Martha for being anxious about many things

     Martha asked Jesus to reprove Mary for leaving Martha to do the serving alone (Luke 10:40).  Instead, Jesus instead tenderly reproved Martha, saying, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things" (Luke 10:41).  Jesus did not reprove Martha for her hospitality or her gift of serving.  However, Jesus did gently reprove Martha for being anxious [worried, divided, figuratively "going to pieces"] and troubled [disturbed, agitated] about many things (Ref. 9, Ref. 10).

5. Jesus commended Mary for choosing the one thing needful

     Jesus commended Mary for choosing the good portion, the one thing needful.  Mary chose to give undivided devotion to Jesus -- to listen to his word and to give herself to his guidance (Ref. 6).

     Apply.  Make time each day for the one thing needful -- Give undivided devotional time to Jesus.  Listen to Jesus' word.  Pray.  Receive Jesus' guidance and follow his priorities for the things you will do to serve others each day.

Related Lesson
"Cast All Your Anxiety on Him" -- 1 Peter 5:7

References
1.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/luke/10.htm
Barnes' notes on Luke 10:38
2.  https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mistress
3.  https://biblehub.com/greek/5264.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1586.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/luke/10.htm
Barnes notes on Luke 10:39
6.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/mhc/luke/10.htm
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 10:38-42
7.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1248.htm
8.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4049.htm
9.  https://biblehub.com/greek/3309.htm
10.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2350.htm

0 Comments

Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us - Scripture Allusions - Verse 1

5/24/2020

2 Comments

 
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this post.
Download a PDF lyrics sheet of this hymn.
Artist: JESUS MAFA. The good shepherd, from Art in the Christian Tradition, a project of the Vanderbilt Divinity Library, Nashville, TN, USA.  Used under license.
Artist: JESUS MAFA. The good shepherd, from Art in the Christian Tradition, a project of the Vanderbilt Divinity Library, Nashville, TN, USA. Used under license.
Image Source: Ref. 1

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.  He makes me lie down in green pastures.  He leads me beside still waters.  He restores my soul.  He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake."  (Psalm 23:1-3)

"I am the good shepherd." (John 10:11, 14)

This article describes the author background and then the scripture allusions for verse 1 of the hymn, "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us."  This article is the first in a series on this theologically-rich children's hymn.  Reference 2 describes the scripture allusions in verse 2 of "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us."

Hymn Text Author

Researchers do not know for sure the circumstances about how the text for "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us" was written; however, researchers attribute this beloved hymn of the Christian faith to Englishwoman Dorothy Ann Thrupp (1779-1847) (Ref. 3, Ref. 4).  Miss Thrupp is "particularly remembered as a writer of hymns for children" (Ref. 4).  "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us" first appeared unsigned (unattributed) in her collection, Hymns for the Young, in 1836 (Ref. 4).  Ms. Thrupp wrote this hymn for teaching young children the message of a "caring Christ who loves all his children" (Ref. 3).  

PictureWilliam B. Bradbury (Ref. 6)
Hymn Tune Composer

William Batchelder Bradbury (1816-1868) was an American musician who composed the tune in 1859 most often associated with "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us" (Ref. 3, Ref. 5 below, Ref. 6).  He named the tune "Bradbury" after himself (Ref. 3, Ref. 5).  Mr. Bradbury "modified the original words meant for children and broadened the meaning to include all the congregation" (Ref. 3).

Mr. Bradbury also composed the tunes to many popular hymns including "Jesus Loves Me," "He Leadeth Me," and "My Hope is Built" (Ref. 6).  In addition to being an excellent musician and composer, Mr. Bradbury served as a music educator, choir leader, organist, and was a devoted reader of the Bible (Ref. 7, Ref. 8).  


All of the Bible verses below are linked to the BibleGateway.com website (Ref. 9).  The verses below are quoted from the English Standard Version (ESV) unless noted otherwise.

To see the lyric sheet for all four verses of "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us" on one page, click here.  The lyrics are provided by Timeless Truths (Ref. 10). 

Scripture Allusions - Verse 1

The first verse of this great hymn teaches children that Christ is our great Shepherd who leads us, cares for us, feeds us, and protects us.  The verse also explains that Christ has redeemed us and that we are his possession.   

"Savior, like a shepherd lead us, much we need Thy tender care"
The Lord is our Shepherd who leads us and cares for us.

     Psalm 23:1-3 -- "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.  (2) He makes me lie down in green pastures.  He leads me beside still waters.  (3) He restores my soul.  He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake."

     Psalm 23:5 -- "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows."

     Isaiah 40:11 (KJV) -- "
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young."

     John 10:11 -- "I am the good shepherd."  (also John 10:14)
    
"In Thy pleasant pastures feed us, for our use Thy folds prepare."
 The Lord feeds us in pleasant pastures and protects us.
  
     Ezekiel 34:14 (KJV) -- "I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel."

PicturePermanent Sheepfold Enclosure - Holy Land. Photo Copyright David Padfield. Used under license. Photo source: FreeBibleImages.org.
A fold was a walled in, hedged, or fenced place for keeping and protecting sheep or other livestock (Ref. 11, Numbers 32:24 KJV).  Jesus referred to such a sheepfold in John 10:1 (KJV).  "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber."  Jesus not only is the means of access to the fold; he also is the Shepherd who protects the sheep in the fold with his own body at the door.  "I am the door.  If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture" (John 10:9, Ref. 12).


"Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus! Thou hast bought us, Thine we are."  (Phrase repeated) 

The phrase, "Thou hast bought us, Thine we are," explains to children the meaning of redemption.  HELPS Word-studies defines redeem as "to release (set free) by paying the full ransom"; (figuratively) to restore "something back, into the possession of its rightful owner" (Ref. 13).  Christ has purchased us and now we are his possession.

     Titus 2:13-14 (italics added) -- " ... waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works."

     1 Peter 1:18-19 (KJV) -- "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot."

Listen and Sing Along 

Click on this YouTube link  - Solo piano meditation on the hymn "Savior, like a Shepherd Lead Us" with sing-along lyrics.  Recorded by Rick Betts - March, 2011.

Prayer

Thank you, Jesus, for being my Savior and Shepherd.  Thank you for leading me and for all the ways that you care for me.

References
1.  http://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-imagelink.pl?RC=48288
2.  https://www.scriptureway.com/home/savior-like-a-shepherd-lead-us-scripture-allusions-verse-2 
3.  https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-savior-like-a-shepherd-lead-us
4.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dorothy_Ann_Thrupp
5.  The United Methodist Hymnal, The United Methodist Publishing House, 1989
6.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Batchelder_Bradbury
7.  https://www.wholesomewords.org/biography/bbradbury.html
8.  http://www.hymntime.com/tch/bio/b/r/a/d/bradbury_wb.htm
9.  https://www.biblegateway.com/
10.  Reference 10 begins next line 
https://library.timelesstruths.org/music/Savior_Like_a_Shepherd_Lead_Us/
11.  https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/encyclopedia-of-the-bible/Fold
12.  https://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/jesus-is-the-door
13.  https://biblehub.com/greek/3084.htm

2 Comments

Characteristics of a Child of God - Part 1

8/25/2019

15 Comments

 
by Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this post.
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits - Matthew 7:16 - 123RF Photo - Used under license
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits - Matthew 7:16 - 123RF Photo - Used under license
"You will know them by their fruits." (Matthew 7:16)

"By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother." (1 John 3:10)


"For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God." (Romans 8:14)

This lesson is the second in a series on "The Children of God."  The first lesson in the series discussed "Becoming a Child of God" (Ref. 1).  Today's lesson is the first of two lessons on the Characteristics of a Child of God.
  
     Consider.  The Bible describes the children of God as having certain characteristics.  How do you know a child of God when you see one?  What are the distinguishing marks of a child of God?

A Child of God Bears Spiritual Fruit

     A child of God passes the fruit test.  Jesus said, "You will know them by their fruits.  Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they?" (Matthew 7:16)  A child of God is recognized by the fruit that he or she bears.

Jesus said that in order to bear much fruit, we must abide in (remain in, stay connected to) him.  "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing " (John 15:5, Ref. 2).  Bearing spiritual fruit is the natural outgrowth of being attached to the vine, Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul describes the fruit of the Spirit as "
love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness, self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23).

The first characteristic of a child of God is a person who is bearing spiritual fruit.  


A Child of God Practices Obedience, Righteousness, and Godliness

     A child of God practices obedience, righteousness, and godliness:
  • Obedience - A child of God obeys and does God's will.  In the parable of the two sons, the son who did go to work in the vineyard did the will of his father (Matthew 21:28-31).  Note the difference between doing God's will and rebelling against or refusing to do God's will.  Jesus emphasized the importance of doing God's will when he said, "For whoever does the will of My Father who is in heaven, he is My brother and sister and mother" (Matthew 12:50).  Obeying God's will is essential for our relationship with Jesus and our heavenly Father.

  • Righteousness - A child of God practices righteousness and does not willfully, habitually sin.  1 John 3:10 says, "By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God ..."  Practicing righteousness means doing what is deemed right by the Lord, i.e. what is approved in His eyes (HELPS-Word studies, Ref. 3).  1 John 3:9 illustrates what it means to practice righteousness.  "No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God" (1 John 3:9, italics added).

  • Godliness - The Apostle Paul instructs his spiritual son, Timothy, "Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness" (1 Timothy 4:7).  The Greek word for discipline is gumnazó, which means train oneself with full effort (Ref. 4).  The English words "gym" and "gymnasium" come from this same root.  The Greek word for godliness is eusebeia, which means piety (reverence) toward God.  Eusebeia also means devotion (Ref. 5).  In the same way that an athlete trains with full effort in a gym, every child of God should train with full effort in reverence and devotion towards God.

A Child of God is Led by the Spirit

     When we are a child of God, the Holy Spirit is our guide for life (Romans 8:14).  The Holy Spirit guides us into all the truth and helps us understand the scriptures (John 16:13, John 14:26, Ref. 6).  The Holy Spirit helps us to put to death the deeds of the flesh (Romans 8:13).  The Holy Spirit guides us in making decisions (James 1:5), what to do (Acts 10:19-20), and where to go (Acts 16:6-10).  A child of God has an active, dynamic relationship with God, and follows the leading of the Holy Spirit in his/her life. 

     Apply.  Are you exhibiting the distinguishing characteristics of a child of God?  Consider the main points in this lesson:
  • Are you bearing spiritual fruit?
  • Are you obeying and doing God's will in all matters?
  • Are you practicing righteousness, and not practicing willful sin?
  • Are you training with full effort in your devotion to God?
  • Are you seeking and receiving the Holy Spirit's guidance as you study the scriptures and make personal decisions?

     In the next lesson (Ref. 7), we will continue our study of the Characteristics of a Child of God.

Related Topics
"Becoming a Child of God" (John 1:12-13)
"Characteristics of a Child of God - Part 2" (Matthew 5:16)
"Our Adoption as God's Children" (Galatians 4:4-5)

References
1.  https://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/becoming-a-child-of-god
2.  https://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/jesus-is-the-true-vine
3.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1343.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1128.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2150.htm
6.  https://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/the-spirit-of-truth 
7.  https://www.ScriptureWay.com/home/characteristics-of-a-child-of-god-part-2
15 Comments

"Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord" - Hymn Story and Scriptures

9/23/2018

1 Comment

 
by Whitney V. Myers  
Download a printable PDF of this post
Download printable sheet music PDF
Gettysburg National Military Park - October Morning - Psalm 27:11 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
Gettysburg National Military Park - October Morning - Psalm 27:11 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
"Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies." (Psalm 27:11)

Today's lesson explores the Bible verses behind the excellent hymn, "Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord."

Hymn Author and Composer

Benjamin Mansell RamseyBenjamin Mansell Ramsey (Ref. 2)
Benjamin Mansell Ramsey wrote the text for "Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord" based on Psalm 27:11 and several additional Scripture verses.  Mr. Ramsey also composed the tune, "Camacha," which we use today when singing this hymn.  

Benjamin Mansell Ramsey (1849 - 1923) was an English organist and amateur composer (Ref. 1).  He also was a well-known music teacher near Bournemouth, England.  Mr. Ramsey composed songs, piano pieces, and carols.  He also wrote works on music theory (Ref. 2). 

Wikipedia reports that Mr. Ramsey also conducted an amateur orchestra in the 1880s, and was involved in establishing the Bournemouth Municipal Orchestra in 1893 (Ref. 1).  He is best known for his hymn tune, "Camacha," and the text he wrote for "Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord" in 1919. 

For those of you who are interested in geography, Bournemouth is located on the south coast of England (see map, Ref. 3).


Scripture Allusions

I suggest that you refer to the attached hymn sheet music for the following discussion of the Scripture verses and the hymn text (Ref. 4).

"Teach me Thy way"

     Mr. Ramsey skillfully wrote this hymn around the Biblical phrase, "Teach me Thy way."   He included the phrase, "Teach me Thy way," 13 times in verses one through four.  In the Old Testament, the Way of the Lord referred to keeping God's commandments (Deuteronomy 5:33, Ref. 5).  In Joseph Benson's Commentary, the phrase "Teach me Thy way, O Lord" means "What course I shall take to please thee, and to discharge my duty, and to save myself from ruin" (Ref. 6).  David, the Psalmist, asked God to teach him God's way in Psalm 27:11 and Psalm 86:11.  Psalm 25:4-5 is similar.  David’s request to God, "Teach me Thy way, O Lord," is an excellent example for us to follow (Ref. 5).

"Thy guiding grace afford" (hymn, verse 1)

     These words call to my mind Jesus' promise in John 16:13, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth."  Jesus promised us as believers that the Holy Spirit will guide us.  The Greek word for guide in John 16:13 is hodégeó, which literally means "to show the way" (Ref. 7, Ref. 8).  Now we can see the close connection between the prayerful hymn words in verse 1, "Teach me Thy way, O Lord" and "Thy guiding grace afford."  As believers in Christ, we need the Holy Spirit's guidance to teach us God's way and truth in each of our life's circumstances.

"Help me to walk aright, more by faith, less by sight" (hymn, verse 1)

     This hymn phrase likely refers to Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians 5:7, "For we walk by faith, not by sight."

"Make Thou my pathway plain" (hymn, verse 3)

     Psalm 27:11 begins with the words, "Teach me thy way, O Lord" and ends with the words, "and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies" (KJV translation).  The transliteration of the Hebrew word for plain is mishor (Ref. 9).  In Psalm 27:11, mishor means literally a level place (free from obstacles) and figuratively, a place of safety, comfort, prosperity (Ref. 9).  In the literal sense, a plain is a level area or plateau as compared to a mountainous area, for example, 1 Kings 20:22-25.  In the figurative sense, David's prayer to make his pathway plain (Psalm 27:11) was to request that God would make his way safe (Ref. 10).  

Mr. Ramsey wrote in verse 3 of the hymn, "Shine through the cloud and rain, through sorrow, toil, and pain; Make Thou my pathway plain, teach me Thy way!"  With these words, we pray that God will make our way safe and that God will comfort us through these difficult times.


"Until the race is won" and "Until the crown is won" (hymn, verse 4)

     Mr. Ramsey likely drew inspiration from 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 which alludes to both of these phrases.  "Don’t you know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way to win the prize.  Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything.  However, they do it to receive a crown that will fade away, but we a crown that will never fade away." 

Let us resolve to run the race with endurance that God has given us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith (Hebrews 12:1-2).

     Listen.  I suggest that you listen to one or both of the following Youtube videos to hear examples of how the hymn can be sung.

Traditional hymn in 3/4 time - The Metropolitan Tabernacle, London congregation singing "Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord" - Click here.

This contemporary, 4/4 time solo arrangement of "Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord" in 4/4 time will uplift you.  Click here.

     Apply.  In what aspect of your life today do you need God to remove obstacles and to make your pathway plain or safe?  Pray and ask God to teach you his way and to give you his guidance.

References
1.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B._Mansell_Ramsey
2.  http://www.hymntime.com/tch/bio/r/a/m/ramsey_bm.htm
3.  https://www.worldatlas.com/eu/gb/eng/where-is-bournemouth.html
4.  https://library.timelesstruths.org/music/Teach_Me_Thy_Way_O_Lord/
5.  https://www.scriptureway.com/home/the-way-of-the-lord-old-testament
6.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/benson/psalms/27.htm
7.  https://biblehub.com/greek/3594.htm
8.  https://www.scriptureway.com/home/the-spirit-of-truth
9.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/4334.htm
10.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/cambridge/psalms/27.htm

1 Comment

The Spirit of Truth

8/26/2018

0 Comments

 
by Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this post
Man Reading Bible with John 16:13 - Photo 123RF
Man Reading Bible - Photo 123RF - with John 16:13 Added
Copyright: digitalskill / 123RF Stock Photo
"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.  He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you."  (John 16:13-14)

"The Holy Spirit is our Guide, not only to show us the way, but to go with us by continued aids and influences." -- Matthew Henry (Ref. 1)

This lesson is the fourth in the series, "About the Truth."  Today's lesson focuses on the role of the Holy Spirit as the "Spirit of Truth."

     Consider.

Jesus promised his disciples that the Spirit of truth would come.

     Jesus was speaking to his disciples on the evening before his death.  In the beginning of John 16:13, Jesus told them that the Spirit of truth would come.  God fulfilled the promise of sending the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, beginning at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4).  Jesus' promise of sending the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, continues for believers to this day (Acts 2:37-39).

The Spirit of truth guides believers into all the truth.

     The Greek word in John 16:13 for guide is the verb, hodégeó.  Strong's Concordance tells us that hodégeó means to show the way -- to teach, guide, lead (Ref. 2). 

In Acts 8:25-40, we see an example of what it means to guide.  An angel of the Lord sent Philip to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza (Acts 8:26).  There Philip met the chariot of an Ethiopian eunuch who was returning from Jerusalem.  At the Spirit's direction, Philip joined the eunuch in the chariot (Acts 8:29).  The eunuch was reading Isaiah the prophet.  Philip asked him, "Do you understand what you are reading?" (Acts 8:30)  The eunuch replied, "Well, how could I unless someone guides me?" (Acts 8:31, italics added)  Philip explained the scripture to the eunuch and "preached Jesus to him" (Acts 8:35).  As the result, the Ethiopian eunuch believed that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (Acts 8:37), and Philip baptized him (Acts 8:38).

Note what Jesus said in John 16:13. "He (the Spirit of truth) will guide you into all the truth."  In his commentary, Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905) says that the words, "all the truth," mean that the Spirit of truth "will be their guide into the fulness [sic] of truth."  Ellicott adds, "The promise has special meaning for the disciples to whom it was spoken; but it holds good for every disciple who seeks to know the truth" (Ref. 3, Ref. 4).

The Spirit of truth speaks what he has heard from the Father and the Son.

     The Holy Spirit does not speak from himself.  The Holy Spirit fulfills his mission when he speaks truth directly from the Father and Son to the believer.  The King James Version translates the verse well.  "When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak" (John 16:13, italics added). 

The Spirit of truth glorifies the Son.

     Jesus said, "He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you" (John 16:14).  The Greek word for glorify in John 16:14 is doxazó, which means make glorious, honor, magnify (Ref. 5 below).  Doxazó is very similar to the Greek word doxa, which means to honor, praise, worship (Ref. 5).  When we sing the Doxology in a worship service we express our praise and worship of God (Ref. 6).  When the Holy Spirit guides us into truth, it is an act of worship that glorifies Jesus, the Son of God.

     Prayer.  Thank you, Lord, for sending the Spirit of truth to be with us and to guide us into all of your truth.   

Related Lessons
"God's Truth in the Old Testament" (Psalm 119:160)
"
Jesus is the Truth" (John 14:6)
"Know the Truth (John 8:32)"
"Jesus - Witness to the Truth" (John 18:37)

References
1.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/mhc/john/16.htm
2.  https://biblehub.com/greek/3594.htm
3.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/john/16-13.htm
4.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Ellicott
5.  James Strong, "The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible," Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1995 - note, based on the King James Version of the Bible
6.  http://www.hymntime.com/tch/htm/d/o/x/doxology.htm

0 Comments

God's Truth in the Old Testament

7/15/2018

2 Comments

 
by Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this post
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon - with Psalm 119:160 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon - with Psalm 119:160 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
"The entirety of Your word is truth, and all Your righteous judgments endure forever" (Psalm 119:160).

This article is the first in the series, "About the Truth."  This article focuses on what the Old Testament says about God's truth. 

The Truth of God in the Old Testament

     Definition.  The main Hebrew word for "truth" in the Old Testament is emeth.  Emeth means "firmness, faithfulness, truth" (Ref. 1).

The word emeth first occurs in Genesis 24:27, when Abraham's servant completes his journey to find a bride for Abraham's son, Isaac.  “Blessed be the Lord God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken His mercy and His truth toward my master.  As for me, being on the way, the Lord led me to the house of my master’s brethren.”

     Consider.  Let's look together at several verses which describe the attributes, or characteristics, of God's truth.

God's commandments are truth itself.

      "Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, And Your law is truth" (Psalm 119:142). 
      "You are near, O Lord, And all Your commandments are truth" (Psalm 119:151).
      "The entirety of Your word is truth, and all Your righteous judgments endure forever" (Psalm 119:160).


Think ahead to Pilate's question to Jesus, "What is truth?" (John 18:38).  The writer of Psalm 119 answers Pilate's question.  God's word is truth. 

God's truth leads us and guides us.

Zion National Park, Utah with Psalm 25:5 - Photo by Whitney V. MyersZion National Park, Utah with Psalm 25:5 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
     David prayed, "Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long" (Psalm 25:5).  

John the disciple confirmed this principle when he quoted Jesus.  "But when He, the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth" (John 16:13).    


God's truth protects us.

     In Psalm 91, the psalmist writes, "He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness (emeth, truth) is a shield and bulwark" (Psalm 91:4, italics added).    Merriam-Webster defines a bulwark as a solid wall-like structure raised for defense (Ref. 2).

David expressed his confidence in God's truth to protect him.  "Lord, do not withhold Your compassion from me; Your constant love and truth will always guard me" (Psalm 40:11).

Recall how Jesus used God's truth (from the Old Testament) to defend himself from Satan's temptations and to end Satan's attack (Matthew 4:1-11).

God's truth is everlasting.

     "For His lovingkindness is great toward us, And the truth of the Lord is everlasting.  Praise the Lord!" (Psalm 117:2)

Martin Luther confirmed this principle in "A Mighty Fortress is our God" when he wrote, "God's truth abideth still" (Ref. 3). 

As believers in Christ, God's truth is our standard.  God's truth endures forever and does not change. 

     Apply.  Let's review the four principles in this lesson:
1.  God's commandments are truth itself (Psalm 119:160)
2.  God's truth leads us and guides us (Psalm 25:5)
3.  God's truth protects us (Psalm 91:4)
4.  God's truth is everlasting (Psalm 117:2)

How can you apply these principles to your life today?


Related Lessons
"Jesus is the Truth" (John 14:6)
"Know the Truth (John 8:32)"
"The Spirit of Truth" (John 16:13-14)
"Jesus - Witness to the Truth" (John 18:37)

References
1.  http://biblehub.com/hebrew/571.htm
2.  https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bulwark
3.  https://library.timelesstruths.org/music/A_Mighty_Fortress_Is_Our_God/
2 Comments

The Way of the Lord (Old Testament)

5/20/2018

4 Comments

 
by Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this post.
Gettysburg Early Morning - Begin One Way Sign with Deuteronomy 5:33 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
Gettysburg Early Morning - Begin One Way Sign with Deuteronomy 5:33 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers

"You shall walk in all the way that the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live, and that it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land that you shall possess."  (Deuteronomy 5:33)

This article is the third in a series on the topic, "About the Way."

     Consider.  Jesus said "I am the way" (John 14:6).  The "way of the Lord" was a concept familiar to Jesus' Jewish listeners.  Consider these principles from the Old Testament. 

     God instructed the Israelites to keep God's commandments by walking in his way.  Deuteronomy 5:33

What was the way that God had commanded?  Please read through the Ten Commandments (Deuteronomy 5:1-21).  

Consider the three-fold blessing God promises for the nations and people who keep his commandments – "that you may live, and that it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land which you shall possess" (Deuteronomy 5:33).

     God went before the Israelites to show them the way.  Exodus 13:21  

     Knowing God and God's ways are key to experiencing God's favor.  Exodus 33:13

     God instructed the Israelites to make God's way known among all nations.  Psalm 67:1-2

     God instructed parents to teach their children the way of the Lord.  Proverbs 22:6

Gettysburg National Military Park Path with Psalm 25_4 - Photo by Whitney V MyersGettysburg National Military Park Path with Psalm 25:4 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
    
     David asked God to "Teach me Thy way, O Lord."
  "Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies" (Psalm 27:11).  "Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths" (Psalm 25:4).

David’s request to God, "Teach me Thy way, O Lord," is an excellent example for us to follow.


     Apply.  Are you walking in the way of the Lord?  Are you obeying God's commandments?  Deuteronomy 5:1-21

Related Lessons
"What Does 'the Way' Mean in the New Testament?"
"Psalm 37:5 Meaning - Commit Your Way to the Lord"


To learn more about the following topics, please visit the About the Way page or the previous posts with dates noted:
  • The Remedy for a Troubled Heart (April 22, 2018)
  •  Who is Jesus?  (May 6, 2018)
  • Walking in God's Way (Old Testament Perspective)
  • "The Way" - The Name of the Early Christian Church
  • Why is Jesus the Only Way to Heaven?
  • Are You Ready to Believe in Jesus?
4 Comments

    Daily Bible Verse

    (Published on my Bluesky account)

    Author

    Mr. Whitney V. Myers.  Christian.  For more information, please visit the Author Page.

    Posting Schedule

    I plan to provide new postings about once a month.

    Planned Topics

    (subject to change)
    19May25 - "Where Does Your Soul Go When You Die?" (Genesis 35:18)

    Recent Posts

    (most recent three months)
    23Feb25 - "The Goodness of the Lord - Psalm 27:13 Meaning"
    2Feb25 - "Repent and Believe the Gospel - Mark 1:15 Meaning"

    Popular Posts

    (top 10)
    13Jan19 - "Bible Verses About the Cross" (1 Corinthians 1:18)
    31May22 - "11 Reasons Why Jesus Came into the World" (John 3:17)
    3June18 - "What Does 'The Way' Mean in the New Testament?" (Matthew 7:13-14)
    25Aug19 - "Characteristics of a Child of God - Part 1" (Matthew 7:16)
    11Apr21 - "What Is Redemption?" (Ephesians 1:7)
    27Jan19 - "Bible Verses - 'I AM's of Christ'" (John 8:12)
    12Feb21 - "Bible Verses About Paradise" (Luke 23:43)
    11Aug22 - "What is Living Water in the Bible?" (John 4:10)
    24Nov19 - "Fear Nots of Jesus" (Mark 6:50)
    9Feb20 - "Come, Now, Let Us Reason Together (Isaiah 1:18)"

    Categories

    All
    About The Life
    About The Truth
    About The Way - Section 1
    Acceptance
    Adoption
    Advent
    Affliction
    Amen
    Angel Of The Lord
    Angels
    Anxiety/Worry - Section 1
    Anxiety/Worry - Section 2
    Atonement
    Attributes Of God
    Authority
    Believe In Jesus - Section 1
    Believe In Jesus - Section 2
    Believe In Jesus - Section 3
    Believe In Jesus - Section 4
    Blessing
    Blood
    Bread
    Bruised Reed
    Burdens
    Children
    Children Of God
    Christmas
    Church
    "Comes" Of God's Word
    Comfort
    Comforter
    Commit To The Lord
    Compassion
    Confession
    Cornerstone
    Courage
    Creation
    Crisis Management
    Cross
    Crucifixion
    Defense
    Deliverance
    Devotion
    Early Church
    Empowerment
    Encouragement
    Endurance
    Eternal Life - Section 1
    Eternal Life - Section 2
    Eternal Life - Section 3
    Faith - Section 1
    Faith - Section 2
    Faith - Section 3
    Family
    Favor
    Fear
    "Fear Nots"
    Filled With The Spirit
    Focus On God
    Follow Jesus
    Food
    Forgiveness - Section 1
    Forgiveness - Section 2
    Foundation
    Friend
    Fruit
    Future Life
    Goals
    God's Care - Section 1
    God's Care - Section 2
    God's Promises
    God's Provision
    God's Will
    Good Example
    Goodness
    Gospel
    Grace
    Gray Hair
    Guidance
    Hate
    Healing - Section 1
    Healing - Section 2
    Hearing
    Heart
    Heaven
    Help
    Helper
    High Priest
    Holy Spirit - Section 1
    Holy Spirit - Section 2
    Hope
    Humility
    Hunger
    Hymn Stories - Section 1
    Hymn Stories - Section 2
    "I AM"s Of Christ - Section 1
    "I AM"s Of Christ - Section 2
    Inheritance
    Integrity
    Invitations From God
    Invitations From Jesus
    Joy
    Judgment
    Knowing Jesus
    Knowledge
    Labor
    Life
    Life After Death
    Light And Darkness
    Listening
    Living Water
    Love
    Lust
    Maturity
    Mercy
    Ministry
    Name Of Jesus
    Narrow Gate
    Needs
    New Life
    Old Age
    Paradise/Heaven
    Peace
    Persecution
    Pharisees & Scribes
    Physician
    Power
    Prayer
    Pray To Receive Christ
    Pride
    Prophecy
    Protection
    Ransom
    Redemption
    Refuge
    Renewal
    Repentance
    Rest
    Resurrection
    Righteousness
    Right Hand
    Salvation - Section 1
    Salvation - Section 2
    Savior
    Scarlet
    Second Coming
    Security
    Serving
    Sheep
    Shepherd
    Silence
    Sin & Sinners - Section 1
    Sin & Sinners - Section 2
    Son Of God
    Son Of Man
    Soul And Spirit
    Sound Speech
    Spirit Of Truth
    Spiritual Athletes
    Spiritual Gifts
    Spiritual Growth
    Storms
    Strength
    Struggles
    Sympathy
    Teaching
    Testimonies
    The Way
    The World
    Thirst
    Throne
    Tranquility
    Tree Of Life
    Trouble
    Truly Truly
    Trusting In God
    Truth
    Unclean Spirits
    Unity
    Virgin Birth
    Water
    Who Is Jesus? - Section 1
    Who Is Jesus? - Section 2
    Why Jesus Came
    Wisdom
    Witness
    Works

    RSS Feed

    Archives

    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    October 2024
    July 2024
    May 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    June 2023
    May 2023
    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018

The ScriptureWay site provides Bible Teachings that point to Jesus.   The Bible teaches that believing in Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven. 

"I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." -- Jesus speaking in John 14:6
​

Picture

    Follow by email

Please enter your email address to receive an email notification of new posts. After you enter your email address, please then click on this "please enter" box. Within a few seconds you should see a message confirming that your information has been submitted.

Copyright 2018-2025 Whitney V. Myers

Listed in Feedspot's 90 Best Bible Study Blogs and Websites
  • Home
  • Site Overview
  • Author
  • Resources
    • Bible Verses about the Angel of the Lord in the Old Testament
    • Bible Verses About Courage
    • Bible Verses About the Cross
    • Bible Verses About Eternal Life
    • Bible Verses About Humility and Being Humble
    • Bible Verses - "I AM"s of Christ
    • Bible Verses about Music
    • Bible Verses About Old Age and Gray Hair
    • Bible Verses about Paradise
    • Bible Verses About Sound Speech
    • Bible Verses for Times of Crisis
    • 29 BIble Verses About Trusting God
    • 11 Bible Verses About Waiting for the Lord
    • Bible Study Tools
    • Whitneytunes Music Videos
    • Whitneytunes Worship Music
  • The Way to Heaven