Can I trust the Bible? -- Part 1

Day 69

OT Reading: Deuteronomy 11-13

NT Reading: Mark 13:1-13

We're right now in process of reading through the entire Bible. But how do we know we can trust anything that we're reading? I mean...we're giving the Bible a lot of credit to say that we're going to guide our lives by what it says. So how do we know the Bible is reliable? These may be questions that you have, or may be questions that someone close to you has. So over the course of the next few days I'm planning to do a multi-part series answering the question, can I trust the Bible?

Part 1 -- How reliable is the Bible?

The Bible is in fact the work of over 40 different authors and was written between three different continents over the course of over 1500 years. It is the most read, most quoted from, most loved and hated book in the whole of human history. It has been translated into more language than any other document. The Bible stands as the most influential book in the history of mankind.

But is it reliable? With all that time how accurate is it? What if we examine it the same way we'd examine say the Epic of Gilgamesh, Homer's Iliad or any other classical work? How would it stand up to the same textual criticisms we use to determine the accuracy of those?

In regard to TEXTUAL accuracy there are a couple tests that scholars typically use to make their determinations:

1. What is the span of time between when the document was originally written, and the earliest manuscript that we have?

2. Over the life of this document, how much variation can we see in the manuscripts? What impact do those variations have on the meaning of the text?

The importance of the first question lays in the fact that the smaller the window between original writing and our earliest manuscript, the less likelihood there is for significant variation from the author's original intent.

A great example of this is Homer's Iliad. In terms of classical literature, The Iliad is considered a reliable work. In fact regarding the number of copies in existence, The Iliad is second with 643 (Thiele), with the earliest of those manuscripts being dated around 500 years after the original writing. That may seem like a long time to us, but in terms of classical literature that's a pretty narrow margin.

But compare that to the New Testament. The number of copies and fragments is almost embarrassing as there are over 24,000 in existence. Add to that the fact that the earliest full copies we have were written only 125 years after the originals (a.k.a "the autographs) and you see that the New Testament stands out quite differently from other classical works.

But what about the second question? I mean, how much variation exists in those 24,000 manuscripts and how much impact does that have on the overall meaning?

In the 1960's two men, Geisler and Nix, compared the variant readings of the Iliad to those of the Bible. They wanted to see what percent of the lines and words were disputed, and how much impact that had on the meanings of each. They found that out of the Iliad's 15,600 lines, 764 lines were in doubt. In other words, five percent of the manuscript was uncertain. But compare that to the New Testament and we see that out of the New Testament's 20,000 lines, only 40 lines, or 400 words are in doubt. This means less than one-half of one percent is disputed or contains any variants. The other 99.5% is considered accurate. (Giesler & Nix, 366-367). And of those disputed readings, not one represents a challenge to Christian doctrine or Biblical moral precepts. Instead the disputes are primarily regarding spelling style or what we would consider typographical errors.

So is the Bible reliable? Examine the facts, then come to your own conclusion.

The following sources were used in this post:

Geisler, Norman L., and William E. Nix. A General Introduction to the Bible. Chicago:
Moody Press, 1968, p 366,367.

Thile, Scott E. "The Authorship and Reliability of the Bible." Accessed here on July 31, 2010.

The Shema

Day 68

OT Reading: Deuteronomy 8-10

NT Reading: Mark 12:28-44

Wow...so much to talk about. This week we've broken the '300 barrier', so that we have less than 300 days remaining in our journey. Also just today we've set the '1000 barrier' so that now we have less than 1000 chapters of the Bible remaining. Maybe you don't get that excited about the little milestones, but I really enjoy seeing them pass by :-).

I love milestones. I like the wooshing sound they make as they fly by...

Bonus points for anyone who got my random allusion :-).

Beyond the milestones though...I found what I thought to be an amazing alignment of the last two days' readings. Today we read the words of Jesus when he responded to the question, "What is the greatest commandment?" To that he replied:

Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.

Mark 12:29-30, NIV

If you are all up-to-date with the readings, then it's likely that those words sound very familiar. Why? Because there Jesus is quoting an Old Testament passage. One that you just so happened to read yesterday from Deuteronomy 6. And out of all the commandments in the Old Testament, all 613 of them, Jesus holds this one up as the most important

And frankly there is so much I would love to say about this...so much about the culture of Israel, how this discussion would have come up in Jesus day, the fact that this passage in Deuteronomy is the only one that I can actually recite in Hebrew (ask me for it some time if you like) and how Jews treat this same passage today. But the fact is that if I dealt with all that, this blog post would be unbearably long in quite a hurry. So instead I'll just cut to the chase.

When asked the question, "which command of God is most important?" Jesus could have listed off tithing rules or Sabbath rules or rules about how to treat mold in the home. But with his answer Jesus cut to the very heart of what God wants. God wants...everything.

Yep, everything. 100%. Nothing held back. All systems go. Pedal to the metal. Every puzzle piece in the box...that's what God wants from your life. You see, while many are content to give God Sunday mornings or to have just enough Jesus to help them behave...God really isn't interested in that. The fact is, He's not content with just having 98.6% of your life, He wants everything that you have, everything in your being solely devoted and committed to loving him. That's what it means to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. And above memorizing the commandments or the books of the Bible (both of which are good exercises), God is interested in having you...all of you.

So what are you holding back? What areas of your life are you trying to compartmentalize? What parts are you either not wanting God involved in, or are just hoping that he'll ignore? What is it that's keeping you from giving him everything you have?

I'll admit...those are not easy questions. But I hope you'll answer them honestly. Because frankly only you know the answers, and if you lie, you're only lying to yourself.

But with your answers in mind, I hope you take time today to pray. Pray specifically about how you answered those questions. Perhaps you need to pray that God will reveal those areas you're holding back. Maybe you need to pray that God will help you give up those parts you're wanting to keep for yourself. Or maybe you just need to thank God for the areas that He's pushed into where you're now living for him. Pray that you can be one of those who will be committed to living for him 100%

Because the fact is, God wants nothing less.

Art and Idols

Day 66

OT Reading: Deuteronomy 3-4

NT Reading: Mark 11:20-33

The name "Deuteronomy" actually means "second law." In other words this is a second telling of the much of the law that we read in Exodus. In fact tomorrow we'll go back through the ten commandments once again. Therefore if you're getting the feeling of deja vu...that's why.

There is one idea though that I'd like to deal with briefly, and it has to do with the second commandment which is usually summed up in something like, "You shall not make for yourself an idol." In today's reading I saw a reference to this same concept. It was in Deuteronomy 4:16-19 which reads:

so that you do not become corrupt and make for yourselves an idol, an image of any shape, whether formed like a man or a woman, or like any animal on earth or any bird that flies in the air, or like any creature that moves along the ground or any fish in the waters below. And when you look up to the sky and see the sun, the moon and the stars—all the heavenly array—do not be enticed into bowing down to them and worshiping things the LORD your God has apportioned to all the nations under heaven. (NIV)

I'm not sure if you're into history at all, but I am. And what we learn from history is that over the centuries, the Hebrews/Jews took this idea very seriously. This was taken so seriously in fact that artisans in these cultures would not even paint, sculpt or craft their artwork into any form that resembled an animal, the sun, a person, etc. Jewish pieces of artwork, tile floors, sculptures, everything we have from prior to the time of Jesus was entirely geometric in nature, thereby trying to ensure that their art could not be an object of worship like was mentioned in the passage. Legalistic? One could argue that point. But regardless I find it interesting that God's people were so concerned about following the ways of God to even take steps like these.

Press on

Day 65

OT Reading: Deuteronomy 1-2

NT Reading: Mark 11:1-19

So here we are, a little over two-months into this year through the Bible. By now reading is likely a habit. For me, on those days I choose not to blog, that even pesters my mind somewhat as I try to lay down to sleep. If you're up to date with our reading schedule, as of yesterday we finished the Old Testament book of Numbers. Honestly it wasn't quite as bad as I remember. Now that I think about it, I think the vast lists will still be ahead of us when we hit Chronicles...but we'll deal with that when the time comes.

So my question to you is...how is this whole experience going? I mean yes, it's great practice to be involved in, something that most people would say is a great discipline. But just like physical exercise, eating enough vegetables and switching your toothbrush every three months...there are a lot of great disciplines that many people never do. So again I ask...how is this going?

I hope this has not turned into a daily drudgery or an absent-minded task. It would be quite easy to just check it off the list each day, as if you've taken your spiritual multi-vitamin (apparently I'm into health-related metaphors tonight). But the fact is that habits can easily morph into mindless routines. To be honest, that's all part of why I write here. Not just to keep myself accountable (which this very much does), but to try to reveal passages, deal with difficult Scriptures and sometimes have some fun.

In short, a little over two months in, I hope you haven't lost the zeal and fervor that you initially set out with. This sort of task is a marathon...not a sprint. To be honest, we're not even quite one-fifth of the way through. But I hope that as we flip through the pages...as the Old Testament at times seems irrelevant and the gospels monotonous...keep pressing forward. Keep pushing on to complete this goal.

Perhaps as a point of motivation you should discuss with someone what you're learning. Perhaps you should bust out a few questions that have been in the back of your mind and post them here or on Facebook. But whatever you decide to do, in the midst of grinding through a few chapters a day...keep pressing on.

"Let us not become wearing in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

All about influence

Day 63

OT Reading: Numbers 32-33

NT Reading: Mark 10:1-31

Simple instructions given by God:

1. Cross the Jordan river to the land I promised your father Abraham.

2. Drive out or kill everyone there.

In fact, now that I write it I'm kind of shocked with the morbid simplicity of the whole concept. I mean...doesn't a peaceful, loving God have any room for diplomacy? Wouldn't it be kinder and more peaceful to progressively assimilate all those cultures, or even allow them to stand on their own? So why does God give such drastic instructions?

To answer that I'd like to quote a principle I've heard preacher Andy Stanley recite on numerous occasions. This is one of the seven principles that North Point Community Church utilizes in their student ministry over and over again. The principle is simply this, "Your friends will determine the direction and quality of your life."

You may be wondering what in the world that has to do with anything...but stick with me.

Well the connection between the two is actually rather simple...both are all about influence. You see, the people we choose to surround ourselves with are the ones that we will be most influenced by. Therefore if choose to have friendships with negative people, I'll likely end up negative. If I have friends who are "go-getters" I'll likely be inspired to take on challenges. In fact I've even heard author, speaker and radio personality Dave Ramsey say, "Studies show that your income is within 10% of the average income of your 10 closest friends. Choose your friends and influences wisely." Whether we like it or not, we will inevitably end up like those we choose to surround ourselves with.

Now let's go back to God's command to the Israelites...you know, the whole "drive out or kill everyone" command? The very reason God gave this command was simple...influence. God knew that if the Israelites surrounded themselves with countries involved in pagan worship, spiritualist practices and other activities He opposed, eventually they would give in. Eventually they would turn away from Him to worship the false gods of these nations. God could not stand to see that happen. In fact, that's why God refers to himself as a "jealous God." (Exodus 20:5) So to make sure that this doesn't happen, but instead that His people do not turn to false Gods...God simply wants to ensure they remove all influences otherwise.

Which of course begs the question...what/who am I allowing to influence me? What am I watching? Reading? Spending my free time on? Who am I having regular conversations with? How am I spending my time? Are the answers to these questions influences that God would approve of? Or would he be looking at us saying, "You really need to drive those out of your life."

It's something to think about.

#2?

Day 62

OT Reading: Numbers 30 - 31

NT Reading: Mark 9: 30-50

Who is the greatest? If you grew up in Sunday school (or have been impacted by your reading thus far) you may respond by saying, "Jesus." And whether you said that in a trite, or sincere fashion, you would in fact be right. But what about after that? Who would you say is #2? After Jesus who is the "next greatest?" Perhaps some preacher who is also an author and has his own TV show? Maybe some missionary in the most remote jungles of Africa? Could it be one of the apostles or other heroes we read about in the Bible? Who would you say is runner up in "the greatest" category?

To us, this may or may not be a topic that we really think about. But the apostles apparently did. In their minds Jesus was going to establish an earthly Kingdom...one that would restore the glory to Israel, overthrow Roman rule and be established forever. And since they had been specifically chosen by Jesus to be part of his "inner circle," well, naturally they would be helping rule this Kingdom. And a variety of times throughout the gospels we see the apostles arguing about who would get what position...or in other words, "who would be the greatest." Because let's face it, if ruling in Jesus' Kingdom I'd prefer to be Vice President or Secretary of State...rather than oversee say the Department of Agriculture.

But then Jesus, as he so often does, completely flips the script on his closest companions. While others would be out comparing possessions, naming off titles, flaunting degrees and boasting about accomplishments (as we often do)...life in Jesus Kingdom was to be very different. Jesus tells his friends, his followers, those who would lead His church, that to become great...they must be servants. Unconcerned with recognition, driven only by a desire to please the Master.

That's a very different perspective than the apostles, or we, are accustomed to. But as I read these words of Jesus I'm forced to ask, "Have I been living, working and serving for recognition, applause and personal gain? Or am I content to be a servant? Living for nothing more than to honor my Master? Something to think about.

God understands leadership

Day 60
OT Reading: Numbers 26-27
NT Reading: Mark 8:22-38

I'm not a leadership guru. Frankly, I don't know that I know enough about anything to have the title "guru" attached to my name in any capacity. I mean...to be a guru you really have to know what you're talking about. And when it comes to leadership, let's just say the song "Over My Head" by the group The Fray is basically my theme song. But as I figure all this "leadership" stuff out, I realize that God really demonstrates over and over again that He knows what He's doing.

Take our passage in Numbers today. Moses is going to pass from this life to the next and God tells him to appoint a successor. Now, Moses could have tried to rule until he simply fell over dead, but then there may have been a struggle for power or division or just mass chaos as the nation of Israel tried to figure out what was next. (By the way, all those are results we will see from Israel in the future, when they don't follow this leadership principle.) So God makes a clear directive, "Appoint Joshua to be your successor."

To this point Joshua has been a general, a scout, and perhaps most importantly serving as Moses' personal attendant. Moses has kept him close, allowing him to learn along the way. And now, after years of running errands while trying to understand what it takes to lead a nation, it was time for Joshua to step into the limelight. From now on he, not Moses, will serve as the leader of an entire nation of people.

Most often leaders do not follow this principle either out of insecurity (fear of being replaced), or oversight (it does not happen accidentally). But what God (and subsequently several leadership books) show us is that when we replace ourselves several advantages are at work:

1. We get to have an influence on who will follow us and how things will be done in the future;

2. The organization (church, company, team, whatever) will be stronger because of wisdom passed down through generations;

3. The load often begins to be shared amongst others.

And that all makes sense to me. Sure, I don't have all this down yet. But I'm openly looking for opportunities to pass on the little I do understand to others. So while I may never be a "leadership guru" maybe I can apply for the title of "mentoring" or "training" guru instead.

All about animals

Day 59

OT Reading: Numbers 21-25

NT Reading: Mark 7:14-37; 8:1-21

A big reading day today. I think the format I got this schedule from probably included Day 59's readings from what would be February 28 & 29. But regardless, we won't be reading that much that often (if again this year). Today a couple animals made appearances that I wanted to mention. One because it's humorous to me and the other because of its theological significance.

In Numbers 22 we read the story about Balaam and his donkey. If you read today, Balaam was summoned by Balak to his palace, and on the way the donkey saw the "angel of the Lord" with sword in hand, ready to kill Balaam. Three times the donkey avoided the angel and three times Balaam beat the donkey for what he believed to be disobedience. Then the story takes an interesting turn. The donkey...talks.

To start off with, that's rare. I mean, I've never carried on a conversation with either of our cats. Even in the Bible, there was only one other natural animal to speak, and that was the serpent all the way back in Genesis. But the main reason I find this humorous is because Balaam just carries on a conversation with his donkey as if it were an everyday occurrence. Perhaps he just never stopped to think about how shocking this event was, or maybe since he spoke to God, he was accustomed to odd things taking place. But I know that if I were written into this story, the story would go something like this:

Donkey: "Why are you beating me?"

Me: "HOLY COW! I'm beating you because you stopped. But more importantly, why are you talking?"

Donkey: "I'm a donkey, not a cow. But why shouldn't I be talking?"

Me: "I know you're a donkey. You shouldn't be talking because donkeys don't talk."

Donkey: "Yes, but I'm talking."

Me: "I can see that, but donkeys are not supposed to talk."

Donkey: "Haven't you ever seen Shrek?"

Me: "Yes I've seen Shrek, but that's a children's movie. In real life donkeys don't talk, they bray."

Donkey: "Oh, excuse me. *ahem* 'Bray.'"

Me: "Oh great, a donkey with a sense of humor."

Donkey: "That's what you said I'm supposed to sound like."

Me: "It's called braying, but it sounds like this, *Hee-haw*."

Donkey: *chuckling* "That was pretty good, can I hear that again?"

Me: *Hee-haw*

Donkey: *openly mocking me* Funny, I've been a donkey for years and I never learned this.

Me: "Donkey, you're missing the point...DONKEYS DON'T TALK!"

Donkey: "So if donkeys don't talk. Why am I the one talking...and you the one doing all the braying?"

Me: *Sigh...* "Touche' donkey...touche'."

Yes, in my own make-believe situation I am bested by a donkey. Perhaps in my dreams tonight I'll outwit that clever beast-of-burden. But enough of my own issues coming out online, I said I actually had something that was of theological relevance, and indeed I do.

The second animal I'd like to mention was a bronze snake that Moses made in Numbers 21. God told Moses to make this snake so that those who were bitten by the venomous snakes could look on it and not die. The reason this is theologically significant is because of what we read in the New Testament.

Most people can reference, or roughly recite John 3:16. However most people have not paid much attention to what comes before or after it. In John 3:14-15 we read this, "Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life." (John 3:14-15, NIV)

The gospel writer John uses this story to illustrate the role Jesus would play. That Jesus would in fact be lifted up, and everyone who trusts in Him will have eternal life. Nothing they could do would save them. No good works, sacrifices or religious services would cut it. Their salvation only came when they trusted in what was lifted up for them.

Ok...that's enough reading for today. And if I secretly discover that my cats really can talk...trust me, I'll let you know

Of Traditions and Men

Day 58
OT Reading: Numbers 18-20
NT Reading: Mark 7:1-13

Today as I was reading, there was one verse that seemed to stand out from among everything else.

"You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men."

Mark 7:8 (NIV)

Perhaps I'm biased because of my own life experiences. Perhaps I'm jaded because of what I do for a living. But how many churches across the United States would benefit from taking down their decorations, removing their ornamental objects, and instead hanging above their doors these very words of Jesus?

Lord may you forgive us for the times that we have held so tightly to our own rituals (formal or informal), that we have neglected our divine purpose.

Things you never new were in the Bible -- episode 1

Day 57

OT Reading: Numbers 16-17

NT Reading: Mark 6:33-56

When you start really digging in and reading the Bible, you sometimes come across things that you probably will not be hearing about in a sermon any time soon. Today was one of those. Today's reading included an account that I'd like to include in a sermon series called, "Things you probably never knew, or maybe can't even believe are actually in the Bible."

Not the feeding of the 5,000. That is in all four gospels and is one of Jesus' most well known miracles. I'm talking about the whole "earth opening and swallowing whole families" story we read about in Numbers 16. This is one of those that you almost wish you could see...at least I do...just to take in exactly how this all happened.

What I could do as I reference this story is come to this point in the post and skew the story towards some grand spiritual finale'. I could discuss how ultimately if we allow sin to control our lives it will swallow us whole in the end...and it's only by fleeing temptation and following Jesus that we may be spared. I could do that...but I won't. Instead, I'd like to offer you a challenge.

I challenge you to somehow in the next few days casually allude to this little-known event in the Bible. You can bring it up with your small group, reference it in a conference meeting, even work it into a supper-time prayer if you like. Then act as if it's a story you thought everyone knew, and be shocked at those who have no idea of what you're talking about. Just give it a whirl. Remember, there are bonus points for creativity. Afterward, be sure to let me know how it went ;-).

The OT and the Death Penalty

Day 56

OT Reading: Numbers 14-15

NT Reading: Mark 6:1-32

If you have not been along from the beginning of this journey, I want to make you aware that I openly invite questions on the blog, Facebook, via email or even in person. I don't promise to always have the answer, but I'll give it my best shot to deal with the questions that are sent my way.

One of our blog readers asked me a question just this last week, and today's reading seems like a perfect time to deal with the topic. She asked, "Why is death the punishment for so many of these offenses?" Which is a great question. I mean, looking over the laws it's easy to see how that would apply to something like murder, but it seems to be popping up all over the place. Consider today's reading where a man was killed for gathering wood on the Sabbath (Numbers 15:32-36). I mean, isn't that a bit harsh? What's the reason for all this?

As far as I've been able to see, God does not explain why he chooses the death penalty for some of these offenses. However there is one important verse we do have, all the way in the New Testament about all this. The New Testament book of Romans tells us that the wages of sin, any sin, is nothing less than death. (Romans 6:23) So to be quite forthcoming, the first thing we must understand is that any sin we have committed really should be paid for with our own lives. But seeing as how all have sinned (Romans 3:23), that would not bode very well for the continuance of the human race would it? So God provided an alternate plan.

At first that plan came through the sacrificial system, with certain sins requiring certain sacrifices, and others requiring death. But why did God choose the death penalty for those he did? I wish there were reasoning for all the offenses the death penalty was to be carried out for, but we do not have that. But if you'll allow me, I'd like to conjecture what is entirely my own opinion (in other words you can disagree and we can still all go to heaven :-) ).

I think God instituted the death penalty in these instances, to demonstrate how serious he was. I mean, how seriously does God treat how we demonstrate our sexuality? He treats it very seriously (see Leviticus 18 for a reminder if you need). How seriously does God value the life of those made in His image? Very seriously. How serious is God about understanding that Holy things should not be treated as common things? Very serious. And by establishing the death penalty as the punishment for these offenses, God appeals to what we would often consider the ultimate punishment.

Is it a happy idea to think about? No, in fact it is not. Most of us would prefer to talk about the gracious, forgiving God rather than the God of justice and wrath. But as God establishes this new nation and for the first time communicates with man what it means to follow Him, God makes it painfully clear how serious He really is.

Sorrow to laughter...in a weird way.

Day 55

OT Reading: Numbers 11-13

NT Reading: Mark 5:21-43

People reading the story of Jarius' daughter for the first time are commonly surprised by the reaction of the crowd. As Jesus walks up on the crowd we see that people are crying and wailing loudly (Mark 5:38). But then they all laugh when Jesus says that the child is not dead, but asleep (Mark 5:40). The question is, are these people bipolar or what's going on? It'd be unlikely for those mourning over the death of a 12-year old girl to chuckle at someone's suggestion that she's just asleep. Sure, I would have understood if someone tried to punch Jesus in the face...but breaking out in laughter? What is going on here?

Well what we see from history is that in Jesus' day it was not uncommon for people of means to hire professional mourners...yes seriously. These people would cry and wail during funerals to display the sorrow of the family. In fact it is kind of humorous to think (though there is some validity to the thought) that a pay scale may have been established for how much a professional mourner might do. Perhaps $10 per hour to stand around looking sorrowful, $20 per hour to weep aloud, $30 will get you loud wailing and full tears, $50 will ensure the whole town hears the crying. Understanding this helps make sense of what happened. It's likely that those laughing were not really the family or close friends and neighbors but instead were paid to be there.

But while we're on the topic...if you happen to need a little extra *UMPH* at your next sorrowful experience...why not give me a call? I've got competitive rates, can double as the officiant, and promise not to burst into laughing while in character. Just something to think about.

So where was it?

Day 54

OT Reading: Numbers 8-10

NT Reading: Mark 5:1-20

Today we read about the healing of the demoniac, but if you pay attention to details or have someone around who is constantly trying to find errors in the Bible, you may note that this miracle is sometimes reference as the area of the Gerasenes. It sometimes is listed as the area of the Gadarenes. And then it sometimes appears as the area of the Girgasenes. The question is, where did this actually happen? I mean, the exact same episode did not happen in three completely different places that all just happened to begin with a "g" did it?

The answer is actually rather simple, although it is a bit tricky to describe in writing. So let me pose these three scenarios:

1. Imagine that I'm traveling in California and a local asks me where I'm from. My answer would be Indiana which would likely be sufficient, and correct. In this case my address, or even my city would be irrelevant due to the individual's likely unfamiliarity with Indiana.

2. Imagine I'm traveling in northern Indiana and a local asks me where I'm from. The general answer of "Indiana" will not likely be helpful as most of us around are from Indiana. However if I say I live near Evansville, that answer will likely suffice. Based on the average Hoosier's familiarity with the state, that individual would understand that I live somewhere in the southwest portion of the state.

3. Imagine I'm traveling around town in my hometown of Jasper and a fellow Jasper resident asks me where I'm from. The answer "Indiana" would be almost ridiculous, and the reality is that I do not really live near Evansville. However if I said, "not too far from the hospital" that individual would likely have a sufficient answer based on his or her understanding of the area.

Now consider the three options of where in the world this healing actually took place, including the fact that these gospel writers would have been writing for different audiences.

* The tiny town of Girgesa was situated right along the shore of the Sea of Galilee. This is likely where the miracle took place (remember: the pigs ran into the water and drown). However due to its miniscule size, the town would not have been recognized by those in Rome, Athens or Corinth, and some readers in the day would have essentially had no idea where the events happened.

* A people known as the Geresenes inhabited an area to the east of the Jordan and Sea of Galilee with the town of Geresa as their capitol. Geresa, however, was nearly 30 miles southeast of the Sea of Galilee, thereby making it unlikely that Jesus landed and did the miracle there. However considering that the entire region was understood as an area in which the Geresenes lived, it would make sense how someone could say that is where things happened.

* A group of ten Roman cities in the area were known as the Decopolis (literally meaning "ten cities"). One of the prominent of those ten cities was Gadara. Gadara was some distance from the sea, about five miles, but large enough to be recognized by a Roman reader.

if your head is spinning from the "G" names, you're not alone. I'm sure I'm going to come back and realize that I called one of them by the wrong name. But regardless, I hope it makes sense how three different writers may refer to an event in three different places, and there be a reason why.

A letter of apology to Numbers

Day 52

OT Reading: Numbers 5-6

NT Reading: Mark 4:1-20

Numbers I need to confess, I've been wrong about you. I admit Numbers, that to this point I have been dreading picking you up on a nightly basis. I have openly proclaimed the joys of skimming your pages to my blog readers (both of them), with the intent of helping us drudge through your immense lists as quickly and painlessly as possible. On Day 38 I even wrote an entire post focusing on how much I dreaded reading you and your friends Leviticus and Deuteronomy. That is how much I have not looked forward to reading you.

Not to say that I ever thought you unimportant Numbers. I mean, you are in the Bible and all. It's just that, well, I have always found you rather dull. I mean, to the people alive at the time you were written, I'm sure you stood as a bulwark of knowledge. For them you tied together generations of genealogies, you held important details about the worship of God and you even served civic purposes like the census I read about the other day. But to be honest, in the grand scheme of things I saw you like the chess club of the Bible. Very intelligent but interesting enough to show up at the prom alone wearing a matching pocket-protector, bow-tie and suspenders.

But then today you went and surprised me. Today I gathered up my Bible and buckled myself in for another blitzkrieg session through a few of your pages. And as I began to read something amazing took place. I actually learned something!

That is right Numbers. You proved to me that you are by no means just a numbers guy. (Sorry Numbers, I could not resist the pun.) Today you showed me that your skills and contents even venture into the legal proceedings of the day. I admit that I had no idea about the whole, "if a man suspects his wife is cheating" thing. And Numbers, I saw that you even have poetry. Poetry! I never would have expected that from you Numbers. That beneath the piles of statistics and lists you would really be a big softie underneath.

So I'm sorry Numbers. I'm sorry for completely overlooking you in the past and overshadowing you with your bigger, or more interesting brothers. Don't get me wrong, I realize you are still primarily a numbers guy (again...sorry with the pun...I just can't help myself). But you have shown that every now and then I will receive a glimpse beyond the data. And if I keep looking you will occasionally show me bits and pieces of things that really matter.

Sincerely,

Mark

A little bit crazy

Day 51

OT Reading: Numbers 3-4

NT Reading: Mark 3:22-35

Jesus family thought he was nuts. Here he was going around, teaching, healing, upsetting all the local religious leaders. So they went to Jesus to try to bring him home...or get him helpor set him straight...or something. But what Jesus was doing was so radical, so outlandish...that even his family thought he was out of his mind.

What's challenging to me is how rarely someone (not just family, but anyone) has looked at me and said, "well that's weird." How distinctive of a life am I really living of no one thinks I'm just a little bit backwards? The life Jesus called me to live is to be distinctly different from those around me. Sure, that may not mean dressing up like a Jedi Knight so everyone in a crowd notices me. But that does mean that those around me, especially those who are not following Jesus, should be saying, "You know...there is just something a little odd about that guy." They should see me...they should see you...as just a little bit crazy.

Why keep it a secret?

Day 50
OT Reading: Numbers 1-2
NT Reading: Mark 3:1-21

While you will see it in other gospels as well, throughout the book of Mark you will often see Jesus silence those who openly proclaim him as the Son of God. Today is the third time so far in the Gospel of Mark that this sort of event has taken place (see Mark 1:25 and Mark 1:43-44 in context for the others). But the question is...why? I mean, wouldn't Jesus want everyone to know who He is? Aren't we supposed to be going into the whole world telling people about Jesus? Why then would he tell those openly proclaiming his divinity...to be silent?

In theological circles this is often referred to as the "Messianic Secret." However Jesus never gives us an outright answer as to why this is. But based on what we understand from culture, and from Jesus, the answer seems to be that it simply was not yet time.

Imagine for a moment that here, in the early portions of His ministry, Jesus accepts a statement declaring his divinity. For a moment He's able to smile, confirm a heart-felt declaration of faith, and alert those nearby that He is in fact God incarnate.

If that were the case those wanting to kill him would have had ample legal grounds to execute him for blasphemy (i.e. claiming to be God). This would obviously bring the Gospel of Mark, and the story of Jesus to a rather abrupt ending without Jesus being able to accomplish a great deal of what He set out to teach and do. So to avoid this potential situation Jesus silenced all who made such a claim. From evil spirits and demons to lepers and former demoniacs. Jesus told them to keep it to themselves.

Later in Mark we will see that the script changes. Later in Mark we will see Jesus accept these sorts of statements-of-faith...but only privately. Then in the last chapter of Mark the entire position will changes as Jesus will tell his followers tell the entire world about him. But for now realize that as Jesus walks and speaks and acts, there is more work to done. As of right now, it is just not yet time.

Tearing off the roof

Day 49
OT Reading: Leviticus 26-27
NT Reading: Mark 2

I seriously was a bit giddy when I saw that we were finishing Leviticus today. The feeling of which didn't last long, of course, as I realized Numbers would be up next. Say it with me, "skimming is my friend."

The reading today in Mark tells the story of how some men are so desperate to get their paralyzed friend to Jesus. There are many approaches that we could take with this story, and frankly several completely different sermons I could preach (it's not that I'm that good, the story is just that good). So please allow me to just highlight a few random thoughts regarding the passage.

1. The paralytic did not necessarily come to be forgiven...it is a safe bet that he came hoping to be physically healed. Yet when approached with this situation Jesus, impacted by the faith of the man and his friends, offers a spiritual healing before any physical healing ever takes place. While our focus is often on the physical, Jesus understood that the ultimate healing he could offer would come through forgiveness.

2. In verse seven the Pharisees stated, "Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Mark 2:7, NIV) On one hand they were right. God is the only one who has the power and authority to forgive sins. And Jesus WOULD have been blaspheming, if he were not in fact God himself.

3. The man's friends would not let anything keep them from getting him to Jesus. They did not care about the crowd, the full house, even a roof would not stop them.

And with all that in mind let me ask one question. What lengths are you truly willing to go to, to help get your friends to the One who can offer ultimate healing, even if they may not be looking for it?

More than $

Day 48

OT Reading: Leviticus 24-25

NT Reading: Mark 1:23-45

Stewardship. Yeah...outside of the church, that's not a word we really use anywhere in life. It's an old English word that has stuck around in the church but no where else. Seriously, stop a random person on the street and ask him if he knows where you can find a trustworthy steward for your pet llamas. Chances are it will not be the llama part of the question that he gets hung up on.

And yet, the fact is that stewardship is an important Biblical concept. A principle that actually showed up in our reading today. Now if you've read the passages already, you may be trying to think about where money, tithes (another churchy word), offerings or gifts were mentioned at all today. Because as we understand it, any time the minister starts talking about stewardship we know that we are in store for a sermon about money and giving.

However the principle of stewardship is bigger than just what is in your wallet (or purse). And it showed up in today's reading in Leviticus 24:23. In the midst of all the instructions regarding the year of Jubilee we read this, "The land must not be sold permanently, because the land is mine and you are but aliens and my tenants." (NIV, emphasis mine)

The Israelites still have not entered the land they were promised by God. That won't happen for a little while yet. And even before they begin building their homes and creating towns God reminds them, "Hey...remember that none of this is yours. It's all mine, and you're just taking care of it."

That's really what stewardship is. It is the understanding that everything is God's and I am nothing but a caretaker (a.k.a "steward") of what He has given. So from my computer to my job to my property that I "own", to my car, to what is in my bank account, to my off-brand MP3 player, God has entrusted all these things to me. It's my responsibility to care for them, and not come to some foolish notion about what I possess or have earned.

So while you may most closely associate stewardship with your wallet and bank account (often the most real and difficult ways to put stewardship into practice), the fact is that everything we have belongs to Him anyway.

Introducing Mark

Day 47

OT Reading: Leviticus 22-23

NT Reading: Mark 1:1-22

Each of the four gospels are unique. Yet as we head into Gospel of Mark I just wanted to hit a few high-points and things to watch for as we read the work of my namesake.

It's the shortest. Mark is only 16 chapters long. For this reason anytime someone asks me where they should begin reading the Bible, I always say Mark. It gives you a complete picture of the life of Jesus, in the shortest amount of time. (Feel free to file that recommendation away and offer it if you're asked the same question.)

It's action-packed. This could be stated a number of different ways. You could say that Mark is ADD...moving from one thing to the next to the next. You could say that Mark is impatient or in a hurry, not willing to really develop some of these events like the other gospels (namely Matthew and Luke). But however you state it, Mark uses phrases like, "immediately", "right away", "just then", etc. How you may notice it more than anything is that Mark focuses on Jesus' actions more than Jesus' teachings.

The author is unnamed. This is actually the case in three of the four gospels, so it is not that unusual. However clues given throughout the text along with what we know from history make a pretty solid case that Mark did in fact write this gospel. If you'd like me to delineate reasons, I'll be happy to, but in the interest of brevity I'll spare you at this point.

Mark's purpose is clear. Go back and re-read the first verse of Mark's Gospel. Other writers began with the birth narratives, Mark dives in immediately (as is his style) and makes a claim as to who Jesus is. From that point on the rest of the gospel is written to back up Mark's conclusion.

Since I taught on Mark last Spring at CCJ, I'm looking forward to re-visiting this book and sharing some of the discoveries I had then. That is...if I don't end up fleeing without my robe (you'll get that reference by the end of Mark :-) ).

The Life of Jesus

Day 46
OT Reading: Leviticus 20-21
NT Reading: Matthew 28

Congratulations. If you have never done it before, you have done it now. If you have kept up with our readings, you have read through one entire account of the life of Jesus. What is neat for me to consider is the idea that some early Christians may have ONLY had the account of Matthew. While we have the luxury of four gospels, Acts and lots of letters, imagine only having one or two letters and basing everything you know about following Jesus on those.

With all that in mind, I suppose there are some questions I'd like you to consider. Having now been through one entire account of Jesus life...what have you learned about Him? Do you see him any differently now than you did 47 days ago? What is your understanding about who Jesus is and who He wants you to be? What would you understand about him, if the book of Matthew were the only book you'd ever read about Him? And ultimately, if you are a follower of Jesus, what does He want from you?

Now don't worry about writing a paper for all of those questions. But as you stop and appreciate the accomplishment I hope you'll also take some time to reflect...and to examine yourself and what all has happened to you in this journey.

Day of Atonement

Day 44

OT Reading: Leviticus 15-17

NT Reading: Matthew 27:1-31

On your calendar you will see it listed as Yom Kippur. It is the most holy day in the Jewish calendar. It is the day of atonement. Today we read about the events that took place on this day, the highlight being the high priest's annual visit to the Holy of Holies (a.k.a. "the most holy place), the sacrifice of one goat, and the release of the scapegoat.

Since you've just read through this entire portion I'll not rehash it. However there was one element of today's reading that really stuck out to me. As we read about these three immense activities that took place on that most holy day, it seems significant that we would also be reading about the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion...the one who ultimately fulfilled all three roles in himself.

Jesus is our high priest, who offered a perfect sacrifice and has thereby entered into the Holy of Holies, paving the way for us to come directly to the Father. (Hebrews 5 & 7)

Jesus was the sacrificial lamb, being offered as a perfect sacrifice to make atonement for who would be seen under his blood. (Romans 8:3)

Jesus was the scapegoat, though he was without sin he took our sins upon himself and imputed his innocence upon us. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

These are the roles that Jesus took on himself. But hopefully you'll not only see it as we read through the crucifixion account...but even shadows of it as we read through the Old Testament.

But why there?

Day 43

OT Reading: Leviticus 14

NT Reading: Matthew 26:55-75

As we read through the end of Exodus and then into Leviticus, something has popped up a few times that appeared again today. It's something that struck me as odd initially, and its continued appearances have led me to try to find out why I keep seeing it. It's statements like this, "The priest is to put some of the oil remaining in his palm on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot..." (Leviticus 14:17, NIV) I had to ask myself, "Self...what in the world is going on with this right-thumb/right-big-toe/right-ear lobe thing?"

So I did some research. And what I found is that...we're not absolutely sure. No where does it seem to lay out (either in the Bible or in extra-Biblical sources) precisely what is meant by this. But what we do gather from the Bible and from history is that the right thumb, ear lobe and big toe:

* were anointed with the blood of a sacrifice when a priest was being consecrated;

* were anointed with oil when a leper was healed;

* were often the parts of the body removed from prisoners of war in several ancient conflicts.

Based on what we see there, it seems that there is a bit of symbolism taking place with these three parts of the body. By touching these three places, it symbolized everything one would hear (ear), everywhere one would walk (toe), and everything one would do (thumb). Thereby anointing the entire person. That is precisely why these were removed in conflict, because the enemy wanted to symbolically render you powerless. Therefore it was considered a shame to suffer this fate.

I wish I had a more concrete and firm answer, but this is what I've found and it seems to make sense. And if nothing else, the next time I come across some odd ceremony involving someone's right thumb, ear lobe and big toe, I'll at least have some idea as to what that is all about. And now, so will you :-).

A practical God

Day 42

OT Reading: Leviticus 13

NT Reading: Matthew 26:20-54

Are you tired of rules, laws and standard operating procedures yet? Let's face it, there are a lot of items in Leviticus that do not so much affect us today. But in the day they were given, these rules would have been very effective to limiting the spread of disease among this nation of people as they traveled from campsite to campsite. So while these chapters seem arduous and repetitive to us, they helped establish concepts regarding food safety and sanitation long before there was ever a federally funded agency to do so.

Are items like this the most interesting to read? No, not to me anyway. Coincidentally it is also not the most interesting to write about (in case you were curious.) But what it does show me is how practical God's words are. Even as this nation of Israel is in its infancy, God lays out very pragmatic steps to ensure the safety and security of His people.

So if you have ever thought that God only deals in the abstract (things like faith, hope, love, trust, etc)...I hope you see how pragmatic God is as well.

(mis)Understanding holiness

Day 41

OT Reading: Leviticus 10-12

NT Reading: Matthew 26:1-19

In my experience I've heard a lot of perspectives, and even some confusion, about what "holiness" actually is. For some it seems to be that untouchable goal of being able to do everything right all the time. Which makes it pretty discouraging when God tells us to be holy as He is holy (Leviticus 11:45, 1 Peter 1:15-16).

The other major perspective that seems to exist is that holiness comes by following all the rules. Then, if I have this perspective, once I see that I'm following everything on my list it's easy for me to get very prideful about how holy I truly am.

The fact is that God tells us right in today's reading what holiness is. Leviticus 10:10a reads, "You must distinguish between the holy and the common..." (NIV) To be holy had nothing to do with rules, otherwise how would a lamp-stand or a fork be considered holy? To be holy means to be "set apart." This is why God contrasts the holy with the common. The instruments and people put in place for God's service were not to be treated as ordinary and common. Instead, they were to be seen as what they were...sacred...special...holy.

And that's essentially what God wants out of his followers. He doesn't want us to be ordinary and common just like everyone and everything else we run into day to day. God wants you and I to be different. To be noticeably distinctive. To be set apart for His service. God wants us to be...holy.

The question of Hell

Day 40

OT Reading: Leviticus 7-9

NT Reading: Matthew 25:31-46

What do you think about Hell? Is it a real place? A potential destination for those without Jesus? Is it a scare tactic developed by the church over the centuries to frighten you into behaving? Is it more symbolic of some place without the existence of God...but in reality it's not that bad? Is it a place where you just "pay your time" and eventually get to go into Heaven? What do you think about Hell?

To you this may seem like a foregone conclusion, but that is not necessarily the case in today's culture. A movement has been growing over the last several years with the underlying belief that Hell is more symbolic, and really does not exist. And admittedly, that's a comforting thought. I mean, I know I'd rather think that there is no place of eternal punishment. The only problem is...Jesus didn't seem to jive with that sort of thinking.

To Jesus, Hell was very real. In our passage today we see Jesus continue in his discussion about how things will go down at the final judgment. And at one point everyone will be separated. Some will go to Heaven, others will go to Hell. Then in the last verse of chapter 25 we read, "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." (Matthew 25:46, NIV)

Of course this sort of thinking is rather unpopular (as it was in Jesus' day). But the popularity of the message does not affect its truth. And how you answer this question will influence how you see evangelism, eternity and the message of Jesus. So before you close the browser, or go back to your email...really be honest.

What do you think about Hell?

Ready?

Day 39
OT Reading: Leviticus 4-6
NT Reading: Matthew 25:1-30

A lot of people get very caught up in discussions about the end times and the second coming of Jesus (the big, fancy, theological word for this is eschatology in case you are curious). I mean all it takes is the click of the TV remote or browsing your local bookstore to hear/see someone using terms like premillennial, rapture, tribulation and four-horsemen (no...not THOSE four horsemen). Unfortunately though, there are plenty who choose to focus entirely on the end of the world, and ignore the other 95% of what is in the Bible.

To be honest, I personally have become annoyed with those who focus solely on this concept. And I admit that I could be accused of avoiding this teaching all together. Not because I do not believe in the second coming, because I most definitely do, but more out of reaction to those who only focus on this topic. So there is my issue to deal with :-).

I say all this because it would be easy, going through Matthew 24 and 25, to get caught up in similar activity. It would be easy to scrutinize every Greek letter, every word, every syllable in an effort to determine the precise day, time and iPod playlist of the end of the world. But I'm afraid if we do that, we really miss the point. Jesus point was not to give us days and times. Jesus point was not to give specific signs. Jesus point was simply: be ready.

Skim back through chapters 24 and 25 again. How many times does Jesus say something like, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour." (Matthew 25:13, NIV) The entire time Jesus is stressing to those who would follow, "Look...you don't know when it is going to happen, and that is ok. You need to be ready for it regardless of the time, place or circumstances." Jesus wants his followers to always, without fail, be ready.

And, to be clear, this is not a "have I done enough to go to heaven" sort of "be ready." Frankly we cannot do enough, that's why Jesus came. But the question is, am I making use of the opportunities I have for Christ? When Jesus returns, will I be at a stage of spiritual growth in my life or spiritual stagnation? Will I be putting the talents He has given me to work, or will I be neglecting my gifts? Will I be able to proudly stand before my Lord and say, "Thank God you're here. I've been anxiously waiting for you." Or will it be more like, "Um...could you come back a little later?"

Sure there are a lot of details and parables we could discuss from these chapters. But I hope in all that you don't miss the big message of Jesus: be ready!