biblegemz's posterous

biblegemz's posterous

Ian Vail  //  I work with Wycliffe Bible Translators and have a deep passion for the Word of God. I created this site to store Bible Gems, gems of insight and understanding from the Word of God to share with all of you, my readers and FaceBook friends and Twitter followers. I send out short one liners daily, clipped from the full length emails that are sent. Now those emails are posted here for your interest.
Read and enjoy deeper insights into God's Word. I trust they will bless you and encourage you to go deeper into God's word. In Wycliffe we are concerned that people have and use the Word in the language they understand the best. I trust these gems will help you dig deeper.

 
Jan 28 / 2:27pm

Bible Gem 747 - Augustus and Quirinius (Luke 2:1-2)

At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 

(This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 

All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. 

And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 

He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant. 

And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 

She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped Him snugly in strips of cloth and laid Him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. 

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. (Luke 2:1 – 8)


Now that Luke has set the scene for John and into him and his ministry he turns back to Mary and Jesus. As I stated in Bible Gem 735, Luke sets this family story in the wider context of what was happening in the wider world. This is significant both for the accuracy of what he was writing but also because Luke himself is keenly aware that this story is a story for all mankind. In this section there are two dignitaries mentioned: namely Caesar Augustus


There is a wealth of material available to you free on E-Sword in terms of the historical background. What follows are some of the resources available to you through the commentaries in E-Sword. 


Barnes:


Caesar Augustus - This was the Roman emperor. His first name was Octavianus. He was the nephew of Julius Caesar, and obtained the empire after his death. He took the name “Augustus - i. e., august,” or honorable - as a compliment to his own greatness; and from him the month “August,” which was before called “Sextilis,” received its name.


Quirinius  This verse has given as much perplexity, perhaps, as any one in the New Testament. The difficulty consists in the fact that “Cyrenius,” or “Quirinius,” was not governor of Syria until 12 or 15 years after the birth of Jesus. Jesus was born during the reign of Herod. At that time “Varus” was president of Syria. Herod was succeeded by “Archelaus,” who reigned eight or nine years; and after he was removed, Judea was annexed to the province of Syria, and Cyrenius was sent as the governor (Josephus, “Ant.,” b. xvii. 5). The difficulty has been to reconcile this account with that in Luke. Various attempts have been made to do this. The one that seems most satisfactory is that proposed by Dr. Lardner. According to his view, the passage here means, “This was the “first” census of Cyrenius, governor of Syria.” It is called the “first” to distinguish it from one “afterward” taken by Cyrenius, Act_5:37. It is said to be the census taken by “Cyrenius; governor of Syria; “not that he was “then” governor, but that it was taken by him who was afterward familiarly known as governor. “Cyrenius, governor of Syria,” was the name by which the man was known when Luke wrote his gospel, and it was not improper to say that the taxing was made by Cyrenius, the governor of Syria,” though he might not have been actually governor for many years afterward. Thus, Herodian says that to Marcus “the emperor” were born several daughters and two sons,” though several of those children were born to him “before” he was emperor. Thus, it is not improper to say that General Washington saved Braddock’s army, or was engaged in the old French war, though he was not actually made “general” until many years afterward. According to this Augustus sent Cyrenius, an active, enterprising man, to take the census. At that time he was a Roman senator. Afterward, he was made governor of the same country, and received the title which Luke gives him.


Clarke:


Caesar Augustus - This was Caius Caesar Octavianus Augustus, who was proclaimed emperor of Rome in the 29th year before our Lord, and died a.d. 14.

Cyrenius,  The next difficulty in this text is found in this verse, which may be translated, Now this first enrolment was made when Quirinus was governor of Syria.

It is easily proved, and has been proved often, that Caius Sulpicius Quirinus, the person mentioned in the text, was not governor of Syria, till ten or twelve years after the birth of our Lord.

St. Matthew says that our Lord was born in the reign of Herod, Luk_2:1, at which time Quintilius Varus was president of Syria, (Joseph. Ant. book xvii. c. 5, sect. 2), who was preceded in that office by Sentius Saturninus. Cyrenius, or Quirinus, was not sent into Syria till Archelaus was removed from the government of Judea; and Archelaus had reigned there between nine and ten years after the death of Herod; so that it is impossible that the census mentioned by the evangelist could have been made in the presidency of Quirinus.

Several learned men have produced solutions of this difficulty; and, indeed, there are various ways of solving it, which may be seen at length in Lardner, vol. i. p. 248-329. One or other of the two following appears to me to be the true meaning of the text.

1. When Augustus published this decree, it is supposed that Quirinus, who was a very active man, and a person in whom the emperor confided, was sent into Syria and Judea with extraordinary powers, to make the census here mentioned; though, at that time, he was not governor of Syria, for Quintilius Varus was then president; and that when he came, ten or twelve years after, into the presidency of Syria, there was another census made, to both of which St. Luke alludes, when he says, This was the first assessment of Cyrenius, governor of Syria; for so Dr. Lardner translates the words. The passage, thus translated, does not say that this assessment was made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria, which would not have been the truth, but that this was the first assessment which Cyrenius, who was (i.e. afterwards) governor of Syria, made; for after he became governor, he made a second. Lardner defends this opinion in a very satisfactory and masterly manner. See vol. i. p. 317. etc.

2. The second way of solving this difficulty is by translating the words thus: This enrolment was made Before Cyrenius was governor of Syria; or, before that of Cyrenius. This sense the word πρωτος appears to have, Joh_1:30 : ὁτι πρωτος μου ην, for he was Before me. Joh_15:18 : The world hated me Before (πρωτον) it hated you. See also 2Sa_19:43. Instead of πρωτη, some critics read προ της, This enrolment was made Before That of Cyrenius. Michaelis; and some other eminent and learned men, have been of this opinion: but their conjecture is not supported by any MS. yet discovered; nor, indeed, is there any occasion for it. As the words in the evangelist are very ambiguous, the second solution appears to me to be the best.


Gill: 


Caesar Augustus; second emperor of Rome; the name Caesar was common to all the emperors, as Pharaoh to the Egyptians, and afterwards Ptolemy. His name Augustus, was not his original surname, but Thurinus; and was given him, after he became Caesar, to express his grandeur, majesty, and reverence; and that by the advice of Munatius Plancus, when others would have had him called Romulus, as if he was the founder of the city of Rome (z): by him a decree was made and published, 


Cyrenius, governor of Syria; or "of Cyrenius" "governor of Syria"; that is, it was the first that he was, concerned in; who not now, but afterwards was governor of Syria; and because he had been so before Luke wrote this history, and this being a title of honour, and what might distinguish him from others of that name, it is given him; for as Tertullian says (c), Sentius Saturninus was now governor of Syria, when Cyrenius was sent into Judea, to make this register, or taxing; and which is manifestly distinguished from that, which was made during his being governor of Syria, when Archelaus was banished from Judea, ten or eleven years after Herod's death; which Josephus (d) gives an account of, and Luke refers to, in Act_5:37. Moreover, the words will bear to be rendered thus, "and this tax, or enrolment, was made before Cyrenius was governor of Syria"; πρωτη, being used for προτερα, as in Joh_1:15. This Cyrenius is the same whom the Romans call Quirinius, and Quirinus; a governor of Syria had great power in Judea, to which it was annexed, when Cyrenius was governor there. It is reported of R. Gamaliel, that he went to take a licence from a governor of Syria" (e); i.e. to intercalate the year: and Syria was in many things like to the land of Judea, particularly as to tithes, and the keeping of the seventh year.



Jamieson Fausett & Brown [JFB]:  


Caesar Augustus — the first of the Roman emperors.


Cyrenius — a very perplexing verse, inasmuch as Cyrenius, or Quirinus, appears not to have been governor of Syria for about ten years after the birth of Christ, and the “taxing” under his administration was what led to the insurrection mentioned in Act_5:37. That there was a taxing, however, of the whole Roman Empire under Augustus, is now admitted by all; and candid critics, even of skeptical tendency, are ready to allow that there is not likely to be any real inaccuracy in the statement of our Evangelist. Many superior scholars would render the words thus, “This registration was previous to Cyrenius being governor of Syria” - as the word “first” is rendered in Joh_1:15; Joh_15:18. In this case, of course, the difficulty vanishes. But it is perhaps better to suppose, with others, that the registration may have been ordered with a view to the taxation, about the time of our Lord’s birth, though the taxing itself - an obnoxious measure in Palestine - was not carried out till the time of Quirinus.

All of this information is available to you on E-Sword,  For those of you who don’t know about it this programme is available free on the Internet and is the most comprehensive Bible software programme I have come across and it is free. You can download it from http://www.e-sword.net/ through the Bible Gemz I give you pointers to using it. 



When a Christian stops studying the Bible, the devil laughs. Corrie ten Boom


Studying God's Thoughts Will Make You Wise, While Studying Man’s Only Makes You Clever. Robb Thompson


We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit. –Aristotle

 
Jan 26 / 9:52pm

Bible Gem 746 - Zech's Prophecy (Luke 1:67-80)

Then his father, Zechariah, was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave this prophecy: 

"Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because He has visited and redeemed His people. 

He has sent us a mighty Savior from the royal line of His servant David, 

just as He promised through His holy prophets long ago. 

Now we will be saved from our enemies and from all who hate us. 

He has been merciful to our ancestors by remembering His sacred covenant—

the covenant He swore with an oath to our ancestor Abraham. 

We have been rescued from our enemies so we can serve God without fear, 

in holiness and righteousness for as long as we live. 

"And you, my little son, will be called the prophet of the Most High, because you will prepare the way for the Lord. 

You will tell His people how to find salvation through forgiveness of their sins. 

Because of God's tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, 

to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace." 

John grew up and became strong in spirit. And he lived in the wilderness until he began his public ministry to Israel. (Luke 1:67-80)

The people asked the question, "What will this child be?" well it is clear that Elizabeth and Zech already knew who he was. Elizabeth made the statement on Mary's arrival 

Why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should visit me? . . . For He made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever."

What promise is this? The one which runs through the whole of the Old Testament concerning the coming Messiah and one the who will prepare the way for Him; His forerunner. 

Do you see now why these two stories are bound together? Why Mary's story and Elizabeth's story are inextricably linked? Why John and Jesus birth are interwoven? They have been interwoven all throughout the Bible. Why should it be any different now? 


Zech's prophecy or song is divided into two portions. The first half (68-75) is written poetic in parallel couplets praising God for His deliverance through the Messiah He promised to send. The second part (76-79) describes the place that John will play in this incredible story. Wow no wonder Zech is over the moon. As a priest this event he has been waiting for is finally here and what's more, his son is to play a part in it. Wow. Imagine his regret in the reaction he had when Gabriel first told him the news. His tongue has been locked ever since and now is his moment to speak. His words are telling of the universal significance for a world waiting in darkness. Note the switch in the sections between the usage of the 3rd person to the 2nd person pronoun. This is intensely family. This is OUR story son. You are a part of it. You are the culmination of a long line of prophetic words concerning this coming event. And now You, my little son, will be the one who will usher in Messiah. This is the stuff that dreams are made of and it is happening to us as a family. My little boy, you are going to be at the centre of it all. 


Messiah and the one who would go before Him have been separable through Scripture. The one who would go before the Messiah must of necessity be always linked to Messiah. Now these two off spring are being birthed by cousins. Well sort of . . .


No wonder Zech was blown away. You would be too.       

This is the stuff that commentators wax eloquent about: analyzing the words used and linking the prophecies from ages past. You can look at what commentators have to say about it if you wish. Or study it for yourself. Take particular note of words like "redeemed / redemption", "mighty Savour", "royal line of David", "covenant", "salvation", "rescued" and more. Yes it does mean all those things. Yes it is all majestic and amazing. But don't forget the family at the centre of all this. This is essentially one family's story told by the eye witnesses through the words of Luke. Don't lose sight of that. Don't lose sight of Zech's euphoria at the things he is experiencing. To think that he as a priest was preaching and talking about this all his life. Trained for all of his priesthood to know and understand and share the Messianic story and now his son is a part of it. WOW and DOUBLE WOW.

Have you got it now? That is the third link in the chain. The significance of the connectedness of those two stories. Told in a very Lukan, family kind of way. 


You think the universe is stable? "It is easier for heaven and earth to vanish than for one dot of the Law to become void." John Piper

 

"If you don't have a dream, how can you have a dream come true?" Jiminy Cricket (from Disney's 'Pinocchio')


The Christ of the galaxies is the Christ of your Mondays. You have a friend in high places. Max Lucado


No "the Coming Messiah" is not pie in the sky by and by; It can be your Monday reality. Ian



 
Jan 26 / 3:18pm

Bible Gem 745 - What's in a name (Luke 1:56-66)

Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home. 

When it was time for Elizabeth's baby to be born, she gave birth to a son. 

And when her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very merciful to her, everyone rejoiced with her. 

When the baby was eight days old, they all came for the circumcision ceremony. They wanted to name him Zechariah, after his father. 

But Elizabeth said, "No! His name is John!" 

"What?" they exclaimed. "There is no one in all your family by that name." 

So they used gestures to ask the baby's father what he wanted to name him. 

He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone's surprise he wrote, "His name is John." 

Instantly Zechariah could speak again, and he began praising God. 

Awe fell upon the whole neighborhood, and the news of what had happened spread throughout the Judean hills. 

Everyone who heard about it reflected on these events and asked, "What will this child turn out to be?" For the hand of the Lord was surely upon him in a special way. (Luke 1:56-66)


Luke's description infers Mary stayed until the birth of John but he doesn’t specifically say that.  It would be the natural thing for her to do. The way it is written could mean there was a gap between when Mary went home and the birth of John. 

The neighbors rejoice with Mary, once assumes at the birth of John. That is they rejoice because the baby's born. But in this case they rejoice with Mary, seemingly because her childless years have ended. It is interesting that John was taken to be circumcised in accordance with the Law of Moses on the eighth day. Then at the circumcision ceremony the relatives and neighbours seem to take over the naming of the child. Is that because Zech can't speak? So they are on his side and want the child to be named after his father, meaning Zechariah. While this was possible; it could be done that way, it was certainly not the norm. But they seem intent on naming him Zechariah. They try again to persuade Elizabeth that his name should be Zechariah. She says, "No, his name is John." How did she know that? Zechariah can't talk. True, but he can write; he is a priest. One assumes Zech wrote down for Elizabeth what the angel said way before this. Elizabeth is sticking to the heavenly plan despite the interference from the neighbours and relatives.  Interesting too that the neighbours and relatives used gestures to ask Zech what the baby should be named. This seems to infer that Zech was deaf as well dumb.  

Everyone is surprised when Zechariah writes "His name is John". It doesn’t appear to be the fact that John was chosen that surprises them. After all Elizabeth and Zech can name him what they like. What surprise them is either that Zech agreed with what Elizabeth called him, inferring the crowd figured they hadn't talk about the name before. Elizabeth speaks the name out then Zech writes it. Here they assume that Zech can't hear what Elizabeth said and that they haven't talked about it before hand. If that is not what is going on, then it has to be the emphatic way he used the present tense, inferring he is already named John. This is also assuming that no word had leaked out that Gabriel had told this couple what the child would be called. 

When Zech's vocal chords are suddenly working again it adds a sense of the miraculous to the moment. Instantly Zech could speak again. It was manifestly evident to everyone that his inability to speak was connected with the birth of this boy. The fact that both parents gave him the same name when one couldn't talk or hear amazed them all. Zech now uses his tongue to praise God, something he should have done nine months before. His punishment has now ended and he has the proof that God's Word over this boy will come to pass. It is evident to everyone that this boy is something special and destined to be used by God. The news spreads far and wide, partly by this same crowd. This is a story worth telling. "Do you know what I heard . . . "     

TEACHER: Name one important thing we have today that we didn't have 10 years ago.

WINNIE: Me!


Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive that is Youer than You." Dr. Seuss


JESUS knew our name even before we were born. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future. He even knows how many hairs are on our heads. 

 
Jan 25 / 3:28pm

Bible Gem 744 - The Mary ~ Elizabeth Link: Being in the know (Luke 39-55)

A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town 

where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth. 

At the sound of Mary's greeting, Elizabeth's child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 

Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, "God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed. 

Why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should visit me? 

When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. 

You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what He said." 

Mary responded, "Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. 

How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! 

For He took notice of His lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed. 

For the Mighty One is holy, and He has done great things for me. 

He shows mercy from generation to generation to all who fear Him. 

His mighty arm has done tremendous things! He has scattered the proud and haughty ones. 

He has brought down princes from their thrones and exalted the humble. 

He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. 

He has helped His servant Israel and remembered to be merciful. 

For He made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever." (Luke 1:39-55)


I have told you already that Luke is weaving these two stories, the birth of John and the birth of Jesus together. Have you don't some thinking about it and worked out why?

Why are these two women linked so inextricably together. Why do the stories come together in the Bible? Now in the passage we have before us today, Luke has brought the stories together in time. Why are they linked?

 

Well one link is made clear in verse 36. Mary and Elizabeth are relatives. 

Elizabeth was one of the daughters of Aaron, or of the tribe of Levi by her father's side. Yet it seems she may well have been of the tribe of Judah by her mother's side, and so a relative of Mary. The Persic version calls her "aunt by the mother's side".  Intermarriages between the two tribes of Levi and Judah were frequent. Though she might be called her cousin in a more general sense; it being usual with the Jews to call all of their own nation their kinsmen and kinswomen, according to the flesh. So in a time like this you seek out your family for support. But why not stay with the immediate family and gain strength and support from them? Because they don't know what is happening. They haven't been made privy to plans of God behind the scenes. Gabriel has told her the link and let her know that Elizabeth "is in the same boat". Elizabeth is going through the same things. Angel visitations, an unexpected pregnancy (although much sought after) and being told that she is part of a greater plan. 

Mary is directed to her own relative, for a sign by which her faith might be confirmed. In terms of what the angel had said unto her, if she found the one to be true (Elizabeth), then she might conclude the things said to her were true as well. Further more, Elizabeth's situation is a miraculous. She was barren, now she is going to have a baby even though it shouldn't be at this time. She is past child bearing age it seems. As Luke 1:37 reminds her and us: nothing is impossible with God. One of the reasons these two stories are linked is to place in juxtaposition the impossibility of it all. That an older woman should have a baby and then suddenly a young virgin is found to be "with child". How can this be? It must be God. God is behind what is going on here. The one confirms the other. The one experience should be interpreted in the light of the other happening. 

Even the babies seem to know what is going on. When Mary says "Gidday" to Elizabeth (ok so you're not from "down under" - greets) the baby reacts. Notice the one baby reacts, John. Not Jesus. He doesn’t react at the at the news. He knows it already. Elizabeth knows what is going on, because she affirms she is blessed by a visit of the mother of her LORD. Gabriel has prepared both women for the events to follow. But Mary's is a tougher assignment. She is an unwed mother and soon to face the brunt of criticism from the community in which she lives. She all of this if for her strengthening. Everything around her and within her is strengthening her for the task in hand.   With all this happening around them, the two relatives break forth in a praise session. Elizabeth breaks out the guitar and they compose songs to express the joy that is within them. In the case of Mary's song it has come down to us today, still to be sung as the "Magnificat" in classical circles and expressed in all sorts of other creative ways as well. 


"Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. 

How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! 

For He took notice of His lowly servant girl, 

and from now on all generations will call me blessed. 

For the Mighty One is holy, and He has done great things for me. 

He shows mercy from generation to generation to all who fear Him. 

His mighty arm has done tremendous things! 

He has scattered the proud and haughty ones. 

He has brought down princes from their thrones and exalted the humble. 

He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. 

He has helped His servant Israel and remembered to be merciful. 

For He made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever."


Mary is so blessed because she has taken God at His Word and trust Him despite all appearances to the contrary.  Something wonderful is happening on a grand scale. The third reason why these two stories are placed together is hidden in the last line of Mary's song. Work it out for yourself. 


Notice that Mary's response and Zech's response are placed in juxtaposition as well! 

There's more to come. Think about it.


These things have much to do with us as well. This story is for all mankind. Oh yes on the grand universal level but also in terms of the lesson there for all of us to be careful as to how we react to God's input to our lives. Our reaction may well make or break us. 


This passage of Mary's song is precious to me because the Lord used it to expose my heart while seeking his guidance. (Luke 1:46) I have tried to find which Gem it is in but can't. I look forward to the day when the Gemz are on the Website and better organized.   

If you can't accept what God says, the problem is you are trying to fit God into your theological box. Ian 


If God says it, that settles it. (Yes I used it two days ago; but good things are worth repeating). It fits here too. Ian

Be careful: your reaction to God's Word (general or specific and personal) will set your course for the future.  Ian


Learn to praise God and accept His word to your heart when everything and everyone tells you to reject it. Ian
 
Jan 24 / 4:23pm

Bible Gem 744 - One final comment on Text Issues (Luke 1:28)

Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! [Blessed are you among women.]" (Luke 1:28)

I had several of you commented yesterday about the text issues. I agree there are textual changes that need explaining. Somehow I have to steer a middle road between a detailed exegesis and commentary on every verse on everything contained therein and something that is more palatable and useful for everyone. There are those of you who want to know everything about every verse and there are those of you who want just the Gemz. Textual issues are important but I have to strike the balance between those which warrant comment and those which don't. Please allow me to be the judge of what to include and what not to include. 

It is also important for us to note when there are alternatives in the Greek text. For example the omission of elements and insertions of others. But while saying that it is helpful to understand that some of these are so minor that it does not warrant our attention. Some of the later Greek Texts were prone to addition and harmonization. For example, the element "Blessed are you among women" was indeed in the text of early Greek manuscripts of Luke at verse 42. But in later manuscripts it was added to verse 28 as well. It is clear given the history of the documents available that earlier texts don't include but later texts do. This has been added by a scribe who wanted to include the extra element in both places. But it is not likely that Luke wrote it into his account in verse 28; but it is for certain he included it in verse 42. 

I am not going to get in the King James debate in this Gem but the allegation made about modern versions of Bible adulterating the text and removing certain verses etc are largely based on the history which is traceable in the documents available to us. I dealt with this notion in Gem 498 in a different context. Allow me to quote from that Gem. 

The way Basil Brown would describe it I thought was helpful. He asked what we would do if we missed the lecture the next day. We told him we would get the notes from a friend. He asked us if there was a better way. We said of course, “Get the lecture notes directly from him.” He said there is a better way. What is it? The answer is to get the notes from everyone in the class. If we had everyone’s notes he told us we could reconstruct the exact words that he had spoken to the class the day before. One person would get the first sentence perfectly but not the second sentence. Another would get the first partially and the second also partially. Someone else would capture the second sentence completely. In such a process we could reconstruct the exact words that were spoken. We could even go one better again if we wanted to and that would be to get the notes from the students who did the class last year. If we did the same with their notes we could not only get the words he said to the same class last year but we could track any changes that he introduced from year to year. Even if we got the lecturers notes directly him from we would not necessarily have the exact words he said. He may well have departed from the notes. Added some more explanation extra to what he had in the notes or skipped some and told the other students this wouldn’t be in the exam.

That is the kind of power that is available to us with the 13,000+ documents we have of the New Testament in existence. By comparing documents of the New Testament we can track accurately what has happened to the text of the New Testament over time. This is the skill or approach of Textual Criticism: Mapping and determining the changes or alterations to the New Testament over time.

That is exactly what is happening with the study of the text experts. When additions are added to the text of the New Testament in later documents it is clearly a more recent reading or addition. The majority text issue stems from the fact that there is a family or group of documents which have a somewhat standard text which appear post Gutenberg, a time when that text can be multiplied by printing. Because we have grown up with that text through the King James it becomes sacrosanct and people react to the removal of some small elements none of which change the meaning or content of the Biblical Text in any significant way. But of course it is all very emotive. It is this debate or argument that I don't wish to get into in Bible Gemz. Maybe when my website is up and running I will write a summary of it all there. 

This particular example in Luke 1:28 is not important. Nothing really hangs on it so I don't wish to elaborate any further. 

Caste you mind back to what I have said about Matthew and Luke in terms of their source. Remember my comments on Q or Quelle. Somehow we have to account for the shared elements of Matthew and Luke. It is either because of a shared written source (Quelle) or it is shared oral source. That is the question. But in saying that Matthew and Luke shared material it is also clear that they were not sharing the material in real time. Knowing what each is writing at the time of writing. They are unaware of what each other is writing. If that were not so then Luke, who is the thorough one, would include elements from Matthew and seek to harmonize what he had written with Matthew. 

This Gem is merely a response to the comments on yesterday's Gem and I felt it prudent to strike while the issue was warm. Warm not hot. Enough said. 

If arrested for trusting God would there be enough evidence to convict you?

 

Faith can move mountains, but don't be surprised if sometimes God hands you a shovel? Rick Godwin


Stop being a prisoner of your past + start becoming the architect of your future! 


Concentrate on making the main thing the main thing and allow the trivial to pass into oblivion. Ian

 
Jan 23 / 3:02pm

Bible Gem 743 - The Controversy (Luke 1:26-38)

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 

to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. 

Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! [Blessed are you among women.]" 

Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! 

You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus. 

He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His ancestor David. 

And He will reign over Israel forever; His Kingdom will never end!" 

Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin." 

The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and He will be called the Son of God. 

What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she's now in her sixth month. 

For nothing is impossible with God. " 

Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her. (Luke 1:26-38)

There are many controversies surrounding this passage of Scripture.  I don't intend to address them all. In fact very few of them really.  "

Never spend more time on a critic than you would a friend."  

As I said in Bible Gem 741 you either accept the factuality of the virgin birth or you don't. Of course it is controversial. Virgin birth is something extraordinary. It is recorded in God's Word. You either accept it or you don't. I can't persuade you "on the basis of the evidence". It is similar to what I shared with you in Bible Gem 324 when I told you the story of sharing with my friend Shenol. "There are some things of God that are just too deep to explain. I am happy with that. I am pleased that God has teaching that I can’t get my mind around; that boggles my mind. I am more satisfied with that fact than if I could explain everything about God in human terms. I am more content having a God who is unexplainable rather than a God who is completely explainable.” That wouldn’t satisfy me."   

There are some things that beyond my ability to comprehend but that does mean they are myth, nonsense or impossible to be real. It simple means I am not able to grasp the depth of them or gain an understanding of how these things can be. But that is alright. I can happily turn such things over to God. That is not a "cop out"; it is simply being wise with the time I have available and what I choose to put my efforts into. So I will leave the matter of proving the "virgin birth" here. 

Two other controversies that pop up in this section are those of the textual element [Blessed are you among women] in verse 28 and the mismatches between Luke and Matthew. I will look briefly at verse 28 here and will leave the Matthew / Luke comparisons until later. 

Learn to notice what is happening in your bible with the text before you. Notice that [Blessed are you among women.] is greyed out. Written faintly. That is because it doesn’t appear in the majority of Greek texts on this verse.  It does however appear in verse 42. No one is deliberately omitting a portion of the word of God. What is happening here is that text experts are seeking to establish what Luke actually wrote in verse 28 given the textual evidence. There are many  who get caught up in Majority Text theory at this point and on other more controversial verses in other places in the Bible.  Their conclusion is that there is a plot to adulterate our Bibles and therefore we should all return to the King James version in English because that is the only correct version. That is what they claim. That's nonsense but I really don't want to spend the time getting into the debate here. I think it is a storm in a tea cup. If I get a hail of protest about this I will know I need to take time to explain it all in a series of Gemz but I suspect most people are not interested in whole debate. So I will conclude with the comment . . . . 

Suffice to say I am aware of the controversy. It is not something that warrants the time. It is a time wasting debate to say the least. For that reason I choose to by pass it. 

I know my rather summary dismissal of these important issue may annoy or anger some of you. I am merely trying to make acceptable progress through the book of Luke and not get bogged down with red herrings. I don't think for one minute that I can change the viewpoint of those who hold their criticisms concerning the virgin birth or their viewpoint on the majority text issues dearly. So in order to make the main thing the main thing let's move on. Don't get bogged down with the criticism and lose sight of the gemz.

You'll never do anything creative, innovative or world changing if you fear criticism. Pioneers are easy targets 4 arrows! -Rick Warren

 Aristotle

Today will u complain or contribute? Compete or cooperate? Criticize or compliment? Crush or create? Curse or cheer?


My criticisms show my heart. Fenelon


Before you criticise and accuse, walk a mile in my shoes. Joe South

He has the right to criticize who has the heart to help.  Abraham Lincoln



 
Jan 22 / 11:44am

Bible Gem 742 - Jewish Betrothal (Luke 1:27)

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 

to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. 

Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! [Blessed are you among women.]" 

Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! 

You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus. 

He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His ancestor David. 

And He will reign over Israel forever; His Kingdom will never end!" 

Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin." 

The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and He will be called the Son of God. 

What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she's now in her sixth month. 

For nothing is impossible with God. " 

Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her. (Luke 1:26-38)

As promised yesterday. Now we turn to look at the Jewish betrothal process to enlarge our understanding of the verses above. Most of us interpret these verse in the context of the western concept of being engaged to be married. 

"Mnaomai" is the word used in the Greek text. It's meaning is "to woo or to court one's bride", to be engaged, betrothed, to pledge or promise to marry. This matches the Hebrew term "shidduchim" with the same meaning. This was the process of "matching". Engagement for marriage was generally brought about by a third person, often a professional match-maker ("shadchan"). The shadchan received a brokerage-fee fixed by law, as a rule a small percentage of the dowry. It was paid by either of the parties, or each paid one-half, at the betrothal or after the wedding. The rabbi, as a person enjoying special confidence, was also often employed as intermediary. Although the marriage preliminaries were the concern of the parents, their children were not forced into marriage over their objections.

The marriage ceremony is based on the rules for transfer of property or of rights in antiquity. In marriage, the woman accepts a ring (or something of value) from the man, accepting the terms of the marriage. This is called betrothal. A prenuptial agreement (ketubah) is read publicly. Witnesses are required for both the signing of the ketubah and the ceremonies.

The term "mnaomai" is a match for the betrothal or matching period. It is used in Luke 1:27 in the form of a perfect participle which tells us the betrothal had taken place some time before and was now in force. This betrothal period was like a virtual marriage and all that was needed was for the groom to come at the set time and claim his bride and close the deal under the chuppah, in a ceremony symbolizing their setting up house together. Very often the chuppah is made of an outstretched tallit (Jewish prayer shawl), but it can be any sort of canopy. The betrothed at that point could be called husband and wife, so strong was the pledge to agree to marry. Both families were intricately bound together to see this agreement honored. Betrothal was as binding as marriage according to Jewish law. The groom could claim his bride at any time. 

A girl of 12 years of age could be betrothed to her future husband. The time frame between betrothal and marriage was normally no more than a year. The girl had the same legal position as a wife. Divorce was needed to break a marriage betrothal. 

We don't know exactly what age Mary was. The Biblical text doesn’t tell us but clearly the facts fit. No wonder Mary's reaction and her horror at the comment that she would have a child. In fact intercourse could take place in this period but it was not considered "kosher" by the Rabbis. To have an angel come at this stage and tell you that you would be with child was to throw a spanner in the works, put the cat among the pigeons to cause great chaos and cause the marriage preparation to grind to a halt. Highly irregular. What an inappropriate time to come and tell a young girl such things! Or was it?

Judgements prevent us from seeing the good that lies beyond appearances! Rick Godwin 

 

Fear creates a form of spiritual amnesia. It dulls our miracle memory. Max Lucado

 

Success in marriage is not merely by FINDING the right mate, but also by BEING the right mate! Ian


For you singles: you're not single, you're simply on reserve for someone who deserves you! Rick Godwin

 
Jan 21 / 12:34pm

Bible Gem 741 - The four witnesses (Luke 1:26-38)

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 

to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. 

Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! [Blessed are you among women.]" 

Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! 

You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus. 

He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His ancestor David. 

And He will reign over Israel forever; His Kingdom will never end!" 

Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin." 

The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and He will be called the Son of God. 

What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she's now in her sixth month. 

For nothing is impossible with God. " 

Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her. (Luke 1:26-38)


Let's examine the credibility of the four prime witnesses Mary, Joseph, Luke and Gabriel. As I told you yesterday, I am glad Luke gave us this testimony. He pays attention to detail and was a doctor. When a doctor adds his credibility to "something medical" it adds credence. Luke would have been the first one to check it out. Was Jesus indeed born via a virgin or not? His medical mind would tell him this was an impossibility. No where in his case histories would he ever find a precedent. There has only been one virgin birth in all of time. Virgin births are impossible. So you can bet Luke would have checked it out. But of course Luke could not have performed a post natal examination. It was too late. I am convinced that he interviewed Mary herself but it would been too late to examine to test the veracity of what he had heard and what she said. Something about what she told him or the way that she told him must have convinced him she was telling the truth.   


Take Mary's testimony. Here is a young girl engaged (betrothed) to be married. We will examine the Jewish betrothal practice tomorrow. But for now, suffice to say Mary herself declares with her response to Gabriel that she was a virgin. At this point in time I don't know why she said what she did. She interpreted Gabriel rightly when he said "the Lord is with you . . . you will have a son." There is no indication in the Greek text that Gabriel was talking about "now". It could have been later in which case she would interpret it as after she was married. Rather she interprets it as being in the immediate future. That is still a puzzle to me and I can't offer you an answer at this point. One of my unanswered questions that are marked and tucked away for later. [Yep I don't have it all figured out yet.] But Mary's statement "How can this happen? I am a virgin." makes it abundantly clear that indeed she was a virgin. Why else would she respond as she didn’t unless this was something out of the ordinary, extraordinary, supernatural. That's where God steps into the picture. 


Take Joseph's testimony or rather his actions. For that we need to switch to Matthew. It is interesting that Luke doesn’t include Joseph's action at this point. Mainly because he is telling the story from Mary's point of view. I am convinced that he is dealing with eye witness account and it is Mary's account he is focused on. Here is Matthew's comment on Joseph's reaction.


This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Joseph, her fiancé, was a good man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. "Joseph, son of David," the angel said, "do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name Him Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord's message through His prophet: "Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel, which means 'God is with us.'" When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded and took Mary as his wife. But he did not have sexual relations with her until her son was born. And Joseph named Him Jesus. (Matt 1;18-25)

 Suffice to say it is very clear he thinks she is telling the truth that she is pregnant. But he knows full well that he is not the father. If he is not the father then that leaves us with two alternatives. What she is saying is true and God is involved as the text declares or another man is involved and he's out of there. Once again God has to bring an angelic visitation to Joseph so he can accept what is going on. As we will see tomorrow Mary was risking too much to have been involved with another man. At first Joseph plans to break the betrothal quietly. (Fat chance of doing that). But when it is all revealed to him by the angel he plans to not go near this new bride of his. He doesn’t want to get mixed up in all that is going on. For his own reputation I suspect but maybe too for God's. He doesn’t even go hear Mary when he can cos he is a bit freaked out by all this. A perfectly natural reaction.  We must take the bible text at face value and believe that God is involved. 


When the chief angel comes and tells you something like this then you had better believe him. This was indeed a message from God himself to prepare Mary for what was going to happen to her. That's why He used His most trustworthy angel. It is the only thing which explains all the facts. When it comes down to that level, you have the choice to either believe God or not. I know for some of you that might be hard. As for me I have seen enough of the supernatural over the years. "Unexplained things" that can only be explained by God. This is one of them. You either accept it or reject it. Sorry I can't produce an artifact from the past of Mary's pregnancy test on a piece of cloth that has HEAVENLY DNA on it. When it comes down to the bottom line you will have to accept it by faith. But don't be worried about that because all of us have to accept things by faith. We all have to faith people at some stage. It is just that many don't want to put our faith and trust in God. How foolish, He is the only One worth putting your faith and trust in. 


What is betrothal in the Jewish culture all about? More tomorrow. 



Every time your faith is put on trial, your character is placed on the witness stand. AR Bernard


"True faith only goes into operation when there are no answers." Elisabeth Elliot

If you can't accept what God says, the problem is you are trying to fit God into your theological box. 

If God says it, that settles it.



 
Jan 20 / 12:04pm

Bible Gem 740 - Virgin Birth: The witnesses (Luke 1:26-38)

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 

to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. 

Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! [Blessed are you among women.]" 

Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! 

You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus. 

He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His ancestor David. 

And He will reign over Israel forever; His Kingdom will never end!" 

Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin." 

The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and He will be called the Son of God. 

What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she's now in her sixth month. 

For nothing is impossible with God. " 

Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her. (Luke 1:26-38)


It will clear to you that I have been able to connect to the Internet because you got this email. But I think I will give you a lighter Gem today so you have time to do some study or sleuthing for yourself. There are two issues that are foundational to Christian teaching: The virgin birth and the resurrection of Christ. Either these two elements are true or Christianity is a myth. Many have come to faith because of these two issues. 


Was Mary a virgin? What does the word "parthenos", translated virgin actually mean?

How can it be possible for someone to be born by virgin birth? We all know what it takes to make a baby. I don't have to spell out the details for you. So how can a virgin birth even be possible?

Are the witnesses reliable?

What is betrothal in the Jewish culture all about? 


I intend to give you another day to find out. If I rush on now to deal with the elements before us you will miss out on the chance to find out for yourself. 


In the first instance examine the text and the credibility of the witnesses. There are four of them with more behind the scene. The prime four are Mary, Joseph, Luke and Gabriel. Then there is Matthew as well as Isaiah and the immediate family. Examine their testimony and see what you said. I am glad it was Luke giving us this testimony. His accuracy and attention to detail is important and furthermore he is a doctor. One would think if Luke unequivocally says it was a virgin birth, then it was a virgin birth. When a doctor adds his credibility to something so unique it adds credence, even if it does stretch the realm of credibility. Take some time to examine the witnesses. 



Larry King, the CNN talk show host, was once asked who he would most want to interview if he could choose anyone from all of history. He said, 'Jesus Christ.' 

Interviewer: 'And what would you like to ask Him?' King replied, "I would like to ask Him if He was indeed virgin-born. The answer to that question would define history for me'."


Larry King is so right – the answer to that question defines history for all of us. 


Your answer to that question defines history for you and it also defines your future. Ian


Take the time needed to research and think about it. "Ponder these things in your heart" ( a la Luke 2:19)

 
Jan 19 / 10:44am

Bible Gem 739 - Pregnant Virgins (Luke 1:26-38)

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 

to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. 

Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! [Blessed are you among women.]" 

Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! 

You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus. 

He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His ancestor David. 

And He will reign over Israel forever; His Kingdom will never end!" 

Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin." 

The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and He will be called the Son of God. 

What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she's now in her sixth month. 

For nothing is impossible with God. " 

Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her. (Luke 1:26-38)


Now we move to Mary's story. But note how Luke has set these two stories together. He doesn’t just tell each story. He interweaves the stories. Tells a part of one and then moves to the other, then back again. Notice too that the time frame of Mary's pregnancy is determined by Elizabeth's I.e. "In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy . . . " Now that is interesting. Why does he do that? You do some thinking about it. Why are these two stories linked like they are? In this case we have another declaration by an angel of a pregnancy. We have two women who are pregnant – one wants a baby desperately and can't have one; the other wants to marry first and certainly doesn’t want to be pregnant. What links these two stories. 


Furthermore in telling Mary, Gabriel informs her of Elizabeth's pregnancy as well. These two are inextricably linked. When Mary hears Gabriel say she will have a son she immediately thinks of "now" not "sometime". She could just as easily have thought "sometime in the future my betrothed and I will have a son – cool." But she thinks now/soon. And then responds – how can that be? I am a virgin. She was betrothed to be married but is not yet married. Most of my readers' cultures would have us think there is no big deal here. She will get married and have a baby. But her reaction is one of shock. Why? Does Gabriel mean now or later? What is the nature of her engagement / betrothal. What are the requirements for that? Take some time to find out. 


You take time to find out. Spend some time looking into these things for yourself. 


This passage is controversial for many people. The Virgin Birth is a major foundational premise of Christianity. At the same time it is a stumbling block for many. As a result many critics seek to explain away the "virgin birth". It just cant happen. You can't have a babe without intercourse. Virgins don't get pregnant. So what is happening here? What do you believe about the virgin birth? Do you believe Mary was a virgin or just a young woman? Your view of the virgin birth reflects your view of God. Think about that. Your view of the supernatural determines your view of God. Can God do things that lie outside of the natural order of things or not? The main problem Bible Critics have with the Virgin birth is the supernatural nature of it. In truth, they have problems with every part of the Bible where God does things that contravene natural laws. Walking on water, raising the dead and virgin having babies. Can God do such things or not? Think about it before we begin with the story of Mary giving birth to Jesus. It is foundational to your faith! 


Spend time musing on what you think and how you interpret these things. 


I leave New Zealand today for Australia on my way back to Indonesia. I am not sure how easily I will be able to send the Gemz over the next days. It may be that you will not receive Gemz until I get back to Jakarta on Tuesday. If that is the case then use the time to think deeply about this passage.  



A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities


DIAPER spelled backward is REPAID. Think about it…

The task ahead of us is never as great as the power behind us. 



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