A Thing Most Holy
Almost every scholar wants to change the meat offering to something else—although they cannot decide what else. The name is said to be confusing to Bible readers. The meat offering has no animal flesh. In fact, it is the only major offering in which no animals are killed. Why is it called the meat offering? Actually, there are very good reasons for calling it the meat offering. The Biblical use of meat refers to solid food as opposed to drink (see Psalm 69:21; Daniel 1:10; Matthew 25:35; John 6:55; Romans 14:17). This is also the older use of the word in English. The first occurrences of meat in the Bible are found in Genesis 1:29-30 where God gives every “herb bearing seed” and the “fruit of a tree…for meat.” Obviously, the fine flour of the meat offering would fit into the meaning of the word. But there is more. The meat offering has a very special typology that is revealed plainly by the cross references to the word meat as used by Christ. The meat offering is the offering of a “living sacrifice”—the kind Christians are supposed to give (Romans 12:1). It is also the kind of sacrifice Christ gave during His earthly ministry. Two verses especially teach this. In John 4:34, Jesus said, “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” In John 6:27, He declares, “Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life.” These references to meat fit perfectly with the meaning of the meat offering. Yet, this wonderful connection in scripture is destroyed in the modern versions of the Bible. And it is not simply a matter of them choosing another word. None that I have examined use the same word—any word—in all three passages This lesson will deal with the different elements of the meat offering. It will then show how these characteristics apply to the life of Christ and the life of the believer.
The Wealth and Fame of Solomon
Solomon received great wealth, not by war, but by his wise and understanding heart given to him by God. This wisdom led queen of Sheba (located in Saudi Arabia) and others to give Solomon much riches.
The Bible Doctrine of Preservation
Have you ever wondered if the Bible that you have has errors in it? Can we find the word of God today or has it been lost in the original languages? Is it even important to know whether we can find the words of God? Let's allow the Bible speak for itself.
The Architecture of Solomon's Temple (Daily Portion 10418)
Most people will not slow down to understand difficult passages like this. It deals with the architecture of Solomon’s Temple and uses unfamiliar words. But, for most of us, the passage is no more difficult than a description of a modern building by an architect. We would have to work to understand that as well. Be willing to look up some words and take time to understand the structure. Realize also that you will not be able to answer all your questions. However, your efforts will be rewarded. And your increased understanding of the Temple will prepare you to receive spiritual truths behind the physical structure. May the Lord help you in this special study.
Authority for Truth
Authority for truth is the right to determine what the truth is.
How to Study the Bible - Lesson One
With this lesson, you begin a course on how to study the Bible. The wonder and richness of the Bible makes it hard to find a starting place. But before you go very far, you must understand a little about what makes the Bible so special. The Bible is unlike any other book in the world. It is a direct message from God.
The Defilement of the Temple (Daily Portion 10329)
This psalm mourns the defilement of the temple and the destruction of Jerusalem. It almost certainly refers to the Babylonian conquest under Nebuchadnezzar. The psalmist cries, How long, and pleas that God remember not their former iniquities. The psalm closes with a confirmation that they are God’s people and that they will give Him thanks forever.
Jesus and Wine
Did Jesus drink alcoholic wine? It is assumed by a great many that He did. Let’s examine this for a moment.
David Respects the Lord’s Anointed
This lesson greatly illustrates a choice made by each person. Will they live their life by conviction or by convenience?
Samuel’s Word to Israel
The Israelites were determined to have a king like all the nations and God had granted their request.