http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings News & Events at CPC en kstake@cpcabq.com Copyright 2012 2012-05-18T00:22:02+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/mens_conference_2012 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/mens_conference_2012#When:00:22:02Z #manpower It’s time to get out of the man cave, put on your pants, and get to Men’s Conference 2012: MANPOWER. We’re going To start with an activity that women will never fully understand…overeating. From sliders to ribs and turkey legs, it’s going to be a party. Once we’ve adjusted our belts to cover our unbuttoned pants, we’ll make our way to the main auditorium…our massive, makeshift man cave for the weekend. You can enter for a chance to win a Ford Raptor or several other prizes that will be given away. Over the weekend Pastor Shannon O’Dell is going to bring his down-home wisdom all the way from Arkansas, and our very own Pastor Galen Woodward is going to speak specifically to the men of our house, helping us leave better men than we came. This summer it’s all about - MANPOWER. Speaker Shannon O’Dell Shannon O’Dell has pastored Brand New Church for over 6 years. He is a dedicated husband and father of four. Shannon passionately seeks to mentor and inspire men to go to the next level in leadership and influence. Galen Woodward Host and Senior Pastor of Copper Pointe ChurchTickets $45 Adult $35 Mid/High School Get Your Tickets HereSchedule Friday June 1st 6:30 pm - Man’s Feast: sliders, ribs, turkey legs, sausage and more! 7:30 pm - Session One Saturday June 2 8:30 am - Breakfast:  Breakfast burritos 9:30 am - Session 2 10:30 am - Break 10:45 am - Session 3 11:45 am - Truck Giveaway Contest Truck Giveaway Contest Registration and each day you attend increases your chances to try and win a Ford Raptor Events, EventFULL Summer 2012-05-18T00:22:02+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/mens_bible_studies http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/mens_bible_studies#When:19:03:01Z Registration begins May 26th Men, we will embark on a study called “The Holy Bible, Beyond Words” – based on a sermon series by the same name from Pastor Robert Morris of Gateway Church in Dallas, TX. If you have never taken the challenge of studying God’s Word on your own or if you are seasoned in your Bible study habits, this study will open your eyes to what God is saying to you.  Through this revelatory eight-part series, your perspective on what the Bible is and how you should read it, will be completely transformed. You will be completely transformed. You will gain a new excitement and hunger for the Word of God like never before! Contact Kevin Burks for more information or to register at wesburks@yahoo.com or call the church office at (505) 299-7202. EventFULL Summer 2012-05-14T19:03:01+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/flourish_sisterhood_womens_bible_study http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/flourish_sisterhood_womens_bible_study#When:19:02:54Z The cost of this study is free and childcare will be available for a small fee. Registration begins May 26th G. -Greatness, recognize the greatness of God inside of you! R. -Rise Up and take your place! O. -Overcome the battles you are facing! W.- Wonderful plans God has for you are coming your way! Come join us for a time of growth in God’s Word, planting seeds of hope in our heart, and developing new friendships! We will explore relate-able topics that will encourage you and empower you to walk in victory through Christ. There is no book and each week we will explore new topics. Contact Diana Burks for more information or to register at burksdi@yahoo.com or call the church office at (505) 299-7202. EventFULL Summer 2012-05-14T19:02:54+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/flourish_nights http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/flourish_nights#When:19:02:14Z $7 a person Ticket sales begin June 9 Join your hostess Kay Woodward for a spectacular evening of entertainment and dessert at the Flourish Sisterhood event of the summer….Flourish Nights. Come hang out with other women and be reminded of the divine purpose that calls all women to use their time, abilities and love to make a difference in the world. Become a part of something bigger than yourself that allows you the opportunity to grow and be used in a miraculous way to change the world. For more information or to purchase a ticket call the church office at (505) 299-7202 EventFULL Summer 2012-05-14T19:02:14+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/4th_of_july_celebration http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/4th_of_july_celebration#When:19:01:32Z Cost • Family Pack (5 tickets for $60.00 and $12/ ticket there after if they buy the family pack). • Individual Tickets are adults $20.00 each, children 6-12 $10.00 each. • Children under 5 free.Tickets On sale at CPC Saturday June 9 - Sunday, June 10, 2012 up until Sunday, July 1, 2012 Celebrate the 4th of July with CPC at the beautiful International Balloon Museum. This location directly overlooks the Balloon Fiesta field and is the best view to watch the amazing fireworks show. Ticket purchase includes parking at the museum, a dinner buffet and beverages, and lots of entertainment for the whole family including jumpers for the kids and volleyball. This is a non-alcoholic event and the proceeds go to support the CPC Celebrate Recovery Program. For more information or to purchase tickets call the church office at (505) 299-7202. EventFULL Summer 2012-05-14T19:01:32+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/refocus_with_kevin_gerald http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/refocus_with_kevin_gerald#When:19:01:27Z Guest Speaker : Kevin Gerald from Champions Center (Tacoma, WA) This July we will be holding one of the largest single services in the history of our church! Join us as we come together in the middle of this year to reFOCUS on the purpose God has for us as a church. During FOCUS 2012 we experienced some of the most powerful services we’ve ever had here at Copper Pointe Church. We invite you to be a part of this one night gathering as we celebrate what God is doing and reFOCUS on what we are called to do. Don’t miss reFOCUS 2012! Visit the reFocus page here for more details. EventFULL Summer 2012-05-14T19:01:27+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/212_fine_arts_showcase http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/212_fine_arts_showcase#When:18:59:16Z Cost: $10 Ticket Sales Begin July 9th The 212 Fine Arts Students will be performing on Friday, July 27th at 7:00 pm at Copper Pointe Church.  You will have the opportunity to watch all of the events that will be participating in Louisville, KY at the National Competition.  This is also a fabulous way to help support the students who are participating financially.  The tickets are $10 each.  Please make plans to join us for an exciting night.  There will be refreshments served at the conclusion of the Showcase. For more information or to purchase a ticket call the church office at (505) 299-7202. EventFULL Summer 2012-05-14T18:59:16+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/cp_serve_high_school_outreach http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/cp_serve_high_school_outreach#When:18:57:48Z New Date Sunday, August 12 Sign ups will begin July 7 CPServe and 212 Student Ministries are partnering up to meet the school supply needs of the Middle School and High School students at Highland and Manzano cluster schools.  We are purchasing backpacks and collecting specific school supplies to be able to equip these students to have a great start to the school year.  Our goal is to be able to meet the needs of 1000 students. For more information contact Shelley Repp at srepp@cpcabq.com or call the church office at (505) 299-7202 We will be collecting the following school supplies: Please Note: We are not collecting backpacks, we are purchasing them for $3 each so we will be taking monetary donations. • Unopened packages of wide rule lined paper • Single subject spiral notebooks • 1 1/2” 3 ring binders • Packages of #2 pencils • Packages of blue or black ball-point ink pens • Highlighters EventFULL Summer 2012-05-14T18:57:48+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/lifeline_homless_outreach http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/lifeline_homless_outreach#When:18:56:04Z Outreach Opportunity for the Whole Family There are many individuals in our community who have found themselves without a home, food, clothes, and other necessities of life. To aid those around us who are in need we have created Lifeline Outreach. Through providing material needs as well as spiritual encouragement, we are able to connect with the less fortunate in Albuquerque and the surrounding cities and offer them true hope. To donate food or volunteer at the event, please contact Judy Wenger at lifeline@cpcabq.com or call the church office at (505) 299-7202. EventFULL Summer 2012-05-14T18:56:04+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/mothers_day_2012 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/mothers_day_2012#When:21:38:19Z Free Smoothie For Every Mom Services Times SAT 5PM SUN 9:30 & 11:15AM Events 2012-05-08T21:38:19+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/john_bevere_hap_2012 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/john_bevere_hap_2012#When:16:46:33Z Marked by boldness and passion, John Bevere delivers uncompromising truth through his award-winning curriculum and best-selling books (The Bait of Satan, Drawing Near, Driven by Eternity and others) now available in over sixty languages. He speaks internationally and is co-host of The Messenger TV program, which is broadcast worldwide. John enjoys living in Colorado Springs with his wife, Lisa, also a bestselling author and speaker, their four sons, daughter-in-law, and grandson. www.MessengerInternational.org www.facebook.com/johnbevere.page www.twitter.com/johnbevere Events 2012-04-27T16:46:33+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/mens_2012_conference http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/mens_2012_conference#When:22:02:27Z Events 2012-04-24T22:02:27+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/cpc_one_year_recap http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/cpc_one_year_recap#When:00:38:34Z Service 2012-04-17T00:38:34+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/easter_at_copper_pointe http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/easter_at_copper_pointe#When:19:24:14Z Service Times Saturday 5 PM Sunday 8:30, 10:00 & 11:45 AM Events 2012-03-19T19:24:14+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/2_parks_1_giant_hunt http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/2_parks_1_giant_hunt#When:23:16:16Z Saturday, March 31st from 10-11:30. This amazing Easter Egg Hunt will occur simultaneously at 2 Parks with 20,000 eggs at each park: • Mesa Verde Park (Pennsylvania & Marquette) • Singing Arrow Park (Singing Arrow & Dorado) Invite your family and friends to this FREE family event. There will be jumpers and games and lots of eggs to hunt! Events 2012-03-15T23:16:16+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/2011_in_review http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/2011_in_review#When:18:14:16Z Join us for our annual all-church meeting Wednesday, February 29th at 6:30PM in the main auditorium. We will review 2011 and look forward to the vision for 2012 Events 2012-02-27T18:14:16+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/masquerade http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/masquerade#When:18:13:39Z I am so excited about our first Flourish Sisterhood event of 2012…Flourish Nights. Please join me for a spectacular evening of entertainment, dinner and the opportunity for me to share with you what God says about who you are destined to be. Kay Woodward - Hostess Date Monday, March 5th Time 6:30PM Tickets $12 Tickets Includes dinner and a mask Limited Seats Available Attire Come as you are or dress up No Childcare Available Events 2012-02-27T18:13:39+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/sy_rogers http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/sy_rogers#When:23:16:41Z About Sy “Sy’s unique life and 3 decades of ministry has inspired and encouraged audiences from London’s Royal Albert Hall to many of the world’s most influential pulpits such as Hillsong Sydney, City Harvest Singapore & Calvary Chapel Ft Lauderdale.  Regarded as a gifted communicator, award winning talk show host, recording artist, and pastoral care specialist, Sy is a leading voice regarding sexuality, cultural themes & God’s character.  Married since 1982, Sy and his family have lived for more than a decade in Singapore and New Zealand. Though currently based in the USA, much of Sy’s ministry continues outside of North America.” Links SyRogers.com Sy on Twitter Sy on Facebook Events 2012-02-24T23:16:41+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/marriage_on_the_rock_simulcast http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/marriage_on_the_rock_simulcast#When:23:57:35Z This Valentine’s weekend, give your spouse the gift that will change his or her life: an intimate, passionate, fulfilling and healthy marriage. Join Jimmy and Karen Evans for their Marriage on the Rock seminar on February 10-11, 2012, live via online broadcast. What You’ll Learn • The four foundational laws of marriage • Elements of financial intimacy • How to disarm destructive behavior in husbands and wives • Keys to sexual fulfillment in marriage Tickets Tickets on sale for $25 per couple at CPC, Bibles Plus, and Chronicles. (childcare included with pre-registration - 299-7202 Ext. 101) Schedule Friday 7 to 9:30PM Saturday 9AM to 12PM Events 2012-02-06T23:57:35+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/pointe_men_a_night_with_mayor_berry http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/pointe_men_a_night_with_mayor_berry#When:21:38:18Z Kicking off the new year with a new men’s ministry, Pointe Men, we are honored to have Mayor Barry be our inaugural speaker. If you’re a male and call CPC your home, don’t miss this dinner and chance to hang out with the guys. Sign up and get your ticket this weekend. Events 2012-01-19T21:38:18+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/2011_recap http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/2011_recap#When:21:30:38Z 2011 was an amazing year here at Copper Pointe! Check out this video to see what went on. Can’t wait to see what 2012 brings! Service 2012-01-04T21:30:38+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/christmas_copper_pointe_recap http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/christmas_copper_pointe_recap#When:21:41:37Z This year’s Christmas services were incredible! Here’s a short recap of everything we did. We will have DVDs available for purchase at the Shop @ The Pointe soon! Events 2012-01-02T21:41:37+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_31st http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_31st#When:07:01:51Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Revelation 19 Revelation 20 Revelation 21 Revelation 22Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Revelation 19-22 John then sees Jesus riding on a white horse. (This is a king coming for war.) He is called ‘Faithful,’ and ‘True.’ (Remember, God’s judgments throughout scripture are ‘faithful and true.’ Jesus is coming to judge.) Jesus’ eyes are like blazing fire and on His head are many crowns (He has authority over everything.). He has a name written on Him that no one knows. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood and His name is the Word of God. Out of His mouth comes a sharp sword. He will rule with an iron scepter. On His robe and thigh are written, ‘King of Kings,’ and ‘Lord of Lords.’ FYI: In ancient times naming a person symbolized that you had authority over them like a father. By having a name that no one knows you are saying that you named yourself and there is no one greater than you. The robe dipped in blood further emphasizes that this is a victorious king riding into battle. The name, the ‘Word of God’ indicates that all of His actions are the living out of the Word of God. The sword of His mouth is also the Word of God. It is what is used to judge the people and determines that they deserve to die. The iron scepter indicates that His rule is a strong one. (A scepter is carried by a ruler as a symbol of his authority.) The names on His robe and thigh indicate that He is dressed as a Jewish man. The ‘names’ are likely the knots in the fringe of His prayer shawl, which are laying on His thigh, that represent the name of God. John now sees the new heaven and the new earth. (We are told that the old ones are gone.) The new Jerusalem descends from heaven, and it is gorgeous. John describes it as being as beautiful as a bride adorned for her wedding day. John hears a voice which tells him that now the place God lives is with man. God will wipe away their tears and there will be no more death, crying or pain. God is making everything ‘new.’ This is all for the person who overcomes. He will be God’s ‘son.’ FYI: A person who ‘overcomes’ is one who repents, turns to God and stops doing evil things. John then lists the people who will not be there. They are: 1. The cowardly. (Fear shows that you do not trust in God, and leads you to not stand up for people and do the right things.) 2. The unbelieving. 3. The vile. 4. Murderers. 5. The sexually immoral. 6. Those who practice witchcraft. 7. Idolaters. 8. Liars. In verse 27 we are told of two more types of people who will not be there. 9. Those who do things that are shameful. 10. Those who deceive people. All of these people will end up in the Lake of Fire. This is the ‘second death.’ Daily Read 2011-12-31T07:01:51+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_30th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_30th#When:07:01:04Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Revelation 15 Revelation 16 Revelation 17 Revelation 18Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Revelation 15-18 Point to Ponder: Notice that through this all, God is only looking for a changed heart. He wants the people to stop doing evil and turn to Him. In the beginning of the plagues, people repent. Unfortunately, at this time, no matter how hard He makes it for them, they will not repent. Instead they blame God for everything and hate Him for it. Jesus then tells John that He comes like a thief (no one will know when). The people who stay awake (alert) and keep their clothes with them (behave) so that they are not naked and shamefully exposed (doing bad things) will be blessed. Point to Ponder: Many people will ask questions like: Do you want to being doing that (drunk, sleeping around etc) when the rapture comes? This is pretty much what Jesus is saying here. Stay alert (be self-controlled) so that you do not find yourself embarrassed (or worse) when He returns. Point to Ponder: Here God tells His people to leave Babylon or they will suffer. These are people who do not deserve to suffer, yet if they stay, against God’s will, they will share in the punishment God is pouring out. What we see here is that it matters who you hang out with. There are times when everything that can be done to help the people has been done and it is time to go. If we do not leave, when it is obvious that we should, then we can expect to share in the hard times as our neighbors face the consequences of their actions. Daily Read 2011-12-30T07:01:04+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_29th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_29th#When:07:01:39Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Revelation 10 Revelation 11 Revelation 12 Revelation 13 Revelation 14Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Revelation 10-14 Point to Ponder: Notice that we are told that there are 7 ‘thunders,’ but that God does not tell us what they are. This revelation is not a ‘full’ revelation. God is giving us just enough to recognize that He is in control, but there are still things that we are not yet to know. During this time God will give power to 2 witnesses. They will prophecy for 1,260 days dressed in sackcloth (a sign of mourning). There men are the 2 olive trees, and the two lampstands that are before God. If anyone tries to harm them, fire will come from their mouths and destroy their enemies. They also have the power (as Elijah did) to shut up the skies so that it will not rain, to turn water to blood (as Moses did) and to strike the earth with any other plague (like Moses). Point to Ponder: No one knows who these two men are. Some argue that they are Elijah and Moses, since the things they are given control over are things that happened during their ministry in the past. Others argue that they are Elijah and Enoch, since it is appointed for all men to die, and these two were taken bodily into heaven, but will die at the end of his ministry. This may be why these two avoided death in the past, for their time to die has not come. The truth is that we do not know. Daily Read 2011-12-29T07:01:39+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_28th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_28th#When:07:01:38Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Revelation 5 Revelation 6 Revelation 7 Revelation 8 Revelation 9Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Revelation 5-9 John then sees a scroll in Jesus’ hand. It has writing on both sides and is sealed with seven seals. (This is a deed to land.) An angel asks who is worthy to open the seal. (A deed may only be unsealed by the rightful owner of the land.) No one in heaven or on earth (living or dead) was found who had the right to open it. John weeps because of this. FYI: When we sin, we give our rightful authority over the earth to Satan. In obeying Satan we give him authority; through our sin we place ourselves under the ‘other’ ruler since we are following his rules and his way of thinking. Here we see that no one ever living has lived a sin-free life, so everyone has turned over their God given authority over the earth to Satan. One of the elders comes over to John and tells him not to weep because Jesus (the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and the Root of David) is able to open it. Daily Read 2011-12-28T07:01:38+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_27th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_27th#When:07:01:38Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Revelation 1 Revelation 2 Revelation 3 Revelation 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Revelation 1-4 This book is the only book of the Bible that promises that the people who read it will be blessed for doing so. Why? I believe it is because when things get bad in the future, the prophecies revealed here will reaffirm for us that God is still in control, even though it may look otherwise. This revelation is a vision given to John (Jesus’ disciple) when he is in exile on the island of Patmos for preaching the Word. It is a confusing book, because prophecy is never clear until after it occurs. I believe that the point of prophecy is two-fold. One is to bring us to repentance so that we remain close to God and avoid much of the suffering. The second is so that we will see that God told us what would occur, so that we will know that He is God, Lord of all creation. I do not believe that prophecy is so that we can ‘get ready’ for it, prepare and avoid the bad times. If we are apart from God, He will thwart our plans anyways in order to bring us to Him… There are a few theories that you should know before reading. One is that the churches being talked to in the beginning of the book are actually church ‘ages’ that we will pass through in history. As you study history you will see that this has more validity than one might think. While the churches here are real churches that existed, with real problems, these are also problems that the church, as a whole, has faced over the ages. Also, these are problems that every church potentially faces on a smaller scale, so we can learn from them at a very personal level as well. Another is about the imagery in Revelation. There are two main thoughts. One is that everything will happen literally, as written. So all of the unusual creatures etc are unusual creatures. Another theory is that this is John trying to describe things that he could not imagine. This theory would say that some of the imagery describes modern war machinery, nuclear war etc. The truth is that we will not know for sure until it happens, and then it should be crystal clear. But no reasonable person truly wants to live through it…. By the Way: Notice how Jesus is described to each church. It relates to what is being said to the churches. Daily Read 2011-12-27T07:01:38+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_26th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_26th#When:07:01:07Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Psalm 117 Psalm 119:81-176 2 John 3 JohnStay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Psalm 117 This is a 2 verse psalm! Praise God Who? All the nations. Everyone! Why? Because of His great love for us and because He is faithful forever. Psalm 119: 81-176 Psalm 119 is all about God’s law. How much it helps us, and the promises that go with our obedience to it. Obeying God’s law is stressed, as is loving it. You will love following God’s laws as you see how much it improves your life. The fact that God must help you to understand it fully stresses the need for a relationship with God if you want to experience the full effects of following God’s law in your life. This involves prayer. So, the ‘formula’ here is: Study, obey, pray and praise- though not necessarily in that order. It is more a consistent ‘mix’ of the four (study, obey, pray, praise) than a do this, then that! 2 John John then tells her that anyone who gets ahead of God and does not continue in the teachings of Christ does not have God. Point to Ponder: What does it mean to get ahead of God? My opinion: Literally I believe this means that we do not go beyond what God teaches. When we read more into scripture than is there and make more rules etc than God gave us, like the Pharisees did, we are not with God. I also believe that this has implications about staying in God’s timing as well. We are not to get stuck in what God did yesterday, but neither are we to rush ahead and get ahead of what God is doing today. 3 John This letter balances 2 John. 2 John tells us that there are some people who we are not to allow speak in the church while 3 John tells us that there are some in the church who are elitists who are refusing to allow godly men to speak. In scripture there is usually a middle ground, and it requires wisdom, and a knowledge of God’s Word to define where that is. Daily Read 2011-12-26T07:01:07+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_25th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_25th#When:07:01:34Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 1 John 1 1 John 2 1 John 3 1 John 4 1 John 5Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 1 John 1-5 John then tells us that everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God. Everyone who loves the Father (God) loves the Son (Jesus) as well. The way we know that we are God’s children is that we love God and carry out His commands. To love God is to obey God’s commands. God’s commands are not burdensome. Why? Because God has overcome the world. (So we do not need to be tempted by it.) We can only overcome the world (sin) by believing that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus came by water and blood (a reference to fulfilling the sacrifices). The Holy Spirit testifies to this, because the Holy Spirit is the truth. (Remember, Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. So is the Holy Spirit part of that since they are one.) There are therefore three things that testify to Jesus: the blood, the water and the Holy Spirit. This is God’s testimony, and it is greater than man’s. Anyone who does not believe this is calling God a liar. God has given us eternal life and that life is in His Son. If you do not have a relationship with the Son, you do not have eternal life. Daily Read 2011-12-25T07:01:34+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_24th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_24th#When:07:01:25Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is John 19 John 20 John 21Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight John 19-21 Jesus then asks Peter if He love (agape) Him. Peter replies that he loves (phileo) Jesus. Jesus then tells Peter to ‘feed His lambs.’ (ie Take care of, preach to, God’s people.) Jesus asks Peter again if he love (agape) Him. Peter again replies that he does love (phileo) Jesus, and Jesus tells Peter to take care of His sheep. Jesus then asks Peter again if he loves (phileo) Him. Peter is hurt, and replies again that he loves (phileo) Jesus. Jesus then tells Peter to feed His sheep. He also tells him that he will die a martyr’s death, and tells Peter to ‘follow’ Him. Peter looks at John and asks, ‘What about him?’ Jesus tells Peter that if He wanted John to remain alive until He returns it is none of Peter’s business. (This led to a rumor that Jesus was coming back before John died, but that is not what Jesus said, or meant, which John notes here while he is still alive.) FYI: Since we translate ‘agape’ and ‘phileo’ as love some of the meaning of this passage is missed in English. Agape is an underserved love. Phileo is the love between equals, where both parties contribute equally to the relationship. When Jesus asks Peter is he ‘agape’s’ Him, Peter thinks he is giving a better answer by telling Jesus that he will love him as an equal. Jesus finally changes and asks Peter if he phileo’s Him, and then tells Peter, basically, if he wants to be His equal then He will die like Jesus. Peter does not like this response either, and turns and asks what about John. Ironically John is the only disciple to die a natural death, but it is not for lack of trying. Tradition has it that John was put into a vat of boiling oil, and when he lived the ruler of the time remarked that if they kept trying to kill him, and he kept living, the only thing they were accomplishing was the spread of Christianity. John was then exiled to the island of Patmos, which was also a death sentence. The island was barren and there were no provisions. Believers supplied John’s needs, God protected him, and on the island John wrote the book of Revelation. John is allowed off the island when the leadership changes. He supposedly goes to Ephesus, where he will die of old age. Daily Read 2011-12-24T07:01:25+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_23rd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_23rd#When:07:01:55Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is John 15 John 16 John 17 John 18Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight John 15-18 Jesus then calls Himself the ‘true vine.’ He tells us that God the Father is the gardener. God cuts off every branch that does not bear fruit (unbelievers). He prunes (gets rid of wasteful parts so that all of the energy goes into producing good fruit) every branch that does bear fruit (believers). Why? So that the good branch will be even more fruitful. Point to Ponder: Pruning: God gets rid of all of the stuff in our life that gets in the way of effectively doing His will. This would include tasks that He has not called you to do as well as behaviors, or stinking thinking that holds you back. It is not always a fun process, especially if we resist. If you know that you believe, and your life seems harder than it should be check yourself to see if you are doing things that God has not called you to do, or if you are trying to hold on to past hurts than God wants to help you work through and be done with. God may also be calling you to set boundaries so that others do not control your life in ungodly ways. Pray, and see what God reveals. Other mature believers can help you through the process. By the way: There are Christian groups that are awesome for this, and I would agree that no one gets very far in life without having to ‘overcome’ something… (Including me!)  Just a suggestion! Jesus then tells them that they are already clean because of the word He has spoken to them. If they remain in Him, then He will remain in them. He tells them that no branch (person) can bear fruit by themselves. They must remain connected to the vine. So a person cannot ‘bear fruit’ unless they remain in God. Daily Read 2011-12-23T07:01:55+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/christmas_copper_pointe_update_video http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/christmas_copper_pointe_update_video#When:07:48:00Z Events 2011-12-22T07:48:00+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_22nd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_22nd#When:07:01:11Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is John 12 John 13 John 14Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight John 12-14 Jesus then tells them that the Holy Spirit, whom God the Father will send in Jesus’ name, will teach you everything you need to know and will remind you of the things that Jesus has said. He is the peace I (Jesus) am leaving with you, and the peace I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled by this and do not be afraid. Jesus then reminds them that they have heard Him tell them that He is going away and then coming back to them. He tells them that if they love Him they will be glad that He is going to the Father because the Father is greater than He is. (i.e. Whatever Jesus gave up when He took earthly form will now be restored to Him.) Jesus tells them that He is telling them this now so that they will believe it when it happens. He tells them that He will not be speaking to them much longer because the prince of this world (satan) is coming. He has no hold on Jesus, but Jesus allows Himself to face death this way so that the world will see that He loves God and does exactly what God says. (i.e. What God has said in scripture, Jesus will do because He does God’s will.) Daily Read 2011-12-22T07:01:11+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_21st http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_21st#When:07:01:26Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is John 9 John 10 John 11Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight John 9-11 Jesus then tells them that as long as it is day, He must do the work of His Father who sent Him. He tells them that ‘night’ is coming. This ‘night’ will be a time when no one can work (likely do miracles). He then tells them that as long as He is in the world, He is the light of the world. (This is a title for God. Job 24:13, 16, 29:3, Ps. 27:1, 36:9. 56:13, 89:15, 118:27, Is. 9:2, 42:6, 51:4, 60:3, Ez. 1:4,27, Mic. 7:8) Jesus then explains. He tells them that He is the gate. There were false Messiahs that came before Him, but they were the thieves and no one listened to them. He repeats that He is the Gate. Whoever enters through Him will be saved. FYI: Jesus is again calling Himself God, for God is our only Savior. Isaiah 43:11 tells us that, apart from God, there is no savior. FYI: Shepherd is also an Old Testament name for God. (Gen. 49:24, Ps. 23:1, Ps. 28:9, Ps. 80:1) It is also a term for the Messiah to come. (Zec. 11:16) While there are other uses for the term shepherd in scripture, the correlation between Shepherd as God and Jesus is strengthened when He calls Himself the ‘owner’ of the ‘sheep’ (us). He also claims to have an intimate knowledge of God. Jesus then asks them about the Messiah, the One whom the Father set apart as His very Own and sent into the world (i.e. God set apart part of His very own being and sent it into the world.)? Why do you accuse Me (Jesus) of blaspheme when I say I am the Son of God? Do not believe Me unless you see that I do exactly what God does. But, if you do see Me do what God does, even though you do not believe My words, believe the miracles, so that you may know and understand that God the Father is in Me and I (Jesus) am in Him. (i.e. We are One and the same.) Daily Read 2011-12-21T07:01:26+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_20th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_20th#When:07:01:15Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is John 7 John 8Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight John 7-8 Jesus tells them that His teaching is not His own. It comes from the One who sent Him. He tells them that if anyone chooses to do God’s will they will automatically know where His teaching comes from. (i.e. If you truly follow God, you will recognize His teachings.) He tells them that some people speak to gain honor for themselves. These people speak on their own (not from God). But the person who does things for the honor of God is the person who speaks the truth. He then asks them why, if Moses gave them the law, does no one actually keep it. He implies that if they were keeping the law they would not be trying to kill Him. Jesus then tells them that He did one miracle and they were astonished. He then tells them that Moses gave them circumcision (though He points out that it really came through the patriarch- Abraham). He tells them that they may circumcise a person on the Sabbath (cutting off good flesh), but when He heals people on the Sabbath they wish to kill Him, when He is making a person whole. He tells them to stop making superficial judgments, and start judging things right. Daily Read 2011-12-20T07:01:15+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_19th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_19th#When:07:01:37Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is John 5 John 6Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight John 5-6 Jesus re-explains what He means when He calls Himself the bread of life. He tells them that their ancestors ate manna in the desert (bread from God) and died. He is the ‘bread’ that comes down from heaven (the thing that the manna was a symbol of), which when man ‘eats’ he will not die (reversing the curse of Eden). He is the living bread from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. The bread is Jesus’ body, which He will give for the life of the world. (Jesus is telling them that He will die for them, so that they might live eternally.) The Jews then begin to really argue. They are upset that Jesus is seemingly telling them that He will give them His flesh to eat. (They do not understand that this ‘bread,’ which is His body, will be like a sacrifice on the altar.) Jesus then tells the people that unless they eat His flesh and drink His blood, they will have no life. (Jesus is referring to His body as a sacrifice. Remember, they are Jewish. Unless the priest makes the sacrifice for you, there is no remittance for the person’s sins. This is the imagery here, and it is likely specific to Passover, but it works for most of the sacrifices as well. Even though these people are familiar with the sacrifices, they still do not get what Jesus is saying.) He tells them that just as the Living Father sent Him, He lives because of the Father. (Again, He is saying that He is equal to God.) The person who ‘feeds’ on (accepts His sacrifice) Jesus will live because of Him. This is what God meant to show you by the bread (manna) that came down from heaven. Point to Ponder: The manna in the desert, along with the fact that the people’s clothes and shoes did not wear out etc, proved that God could keep people alive eternally, even on earth. It was a picture of Christ, coming from heaven and providing eternal life as well. The Jews did not see this as a Messianic symbol. Jesus is trying to explain what God was showing them with the manna. They are still confused. The point of the manna is that God can provide eternal life, if we look to Him and obey. Jesus, down from heaven like the manna, is the key to eternal life, the ‘bread’ that the people must receive if they are to live. Daily Read 2011-12-19T07:01:37+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_18th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_18th#When:07:01:52Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is John 2 John 3 John 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight John 2-4 FYI: The problem with the money changers and the people selling things for sacrifice was likely that what started out as a godly idea (Let’s avoid idolatry by using only Temple coins, and help the people so that they do not have to drag animals with them their entire trip to Jerusalem) was now a scheme to rip people off, and profit (wrongly, by over charging) from the worship of God. Further, the area these people were in was the only area accessible to the Gentiles at this time. Despite multiple Old Testament scriptures indicating that God wanted non-Jews to go to the Temple and worship Him, the Jews of this time had made it illegal for a non-Jew to go beyond the court of the Gentiles. (Is. 56:3) (The prohibitions against foreigners that you will see are for those who are sacrificing at the Temple, but are not worshipping God alone. There will be no pagan offerings on God’s altar. Ez.44:7) The women and children were also kept away, and could go only a little closer into the court of women. This was also not God’s plan. (Ex. 38:8, 1 Sam. 2:22) So, the only view of Jewish worship a Gentile was to see was Jews over charging and ripping other Jews off at the Temple. Not good. Daily Read 2011-12-18T07:01:52+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_17th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_17th#When:07:01:22Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 2 Peter 1 2 Peter 2 2 Peter 3 John 1Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 2 Peter 1-3 There will be false prophets and false teachers in the church. They will introduce heresy (incorrect teachings) even to the point of denying God. This will result in their destruction (This may be hell, or it could be earthly punishment, or both). Many will follow them, and will give Christians a bad name. These teachers will take advantage of you by telling you stories that they have made up. If God did not spare the angels, but sent them to hell, and He did not spare the people in the flood (though he did protect Noah and the 7 with him), and God burnt Sodom and Gomorrah as an example to others (but rescued Lot) then we can be assured that God knows how to rescue you from trials, as well as how to hold the wicked accountable on the day of judgment. John 1 The first part of the gospel of John is actually in the form of a picture poem (called a chiasmus). This poem forms a point. The main point in the poem is at the point. Here the main point is “He was with God.” In the beginning     Was the word                 And the word                           Was with God                 And the word     Was God In the beginning…..    He was with God . FYI: The word, which is translated ‘with’ can also be translated as ‘from.’ The words in English do not convey the meaning quite the way it was intended. Here, think of the word with, as ‘from’ as in ‘Is that piece ‘from’ the pie on the counter?’ The ‘with’ or ‘from’ indicates that the thing is part of the whole, in close association. It is not merely loosely associated, but a piece of the entire thing. Now ‘the Word’ is a Jewish concept that implies the action of living the whole law (The Old Testament rules). Jesus is called the ‘Word’ as His life was a living example of how to live God’s Word in everyday life. This verse also tells us that before creation (in the beginning) Jesus existed. Other verse in John will back this up. Daily Read 2011-12-17T07:01:22+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_16th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_16th#When:07:01:29Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 1 Peter 1 1 Peter 2 1 Peter 3 1 Peter 4 1 Peter 5Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 1 Peter 1-5 Peter addresses this letter to God’s ‘elect,’ or ‘chosen,’ who have been chosen according to the ‘foreknowledge’ by God, through the sanctification of the Holy Spirit, and for obedience to Jesus. Point to Ponder: What does this mean? First, this is another example of confusing English, because most translations are trying to go word for word, and it limits what they can say. The NASB, in my opinion, does the best job with this verse. Instead of ‘chosen,’ or ‘elect’ it tells us that they were aliens scattered throughout foreign lands. I purposely used wording from other versions here to emphasize the confusion, and so I could explain the problem. First, the Greek word ‘parepadamos’ is used here. It is a word used to describe a person who is living as a foreigner, in a foreign land. The people Peter is specifically talking to are Jews, who have become believers, who are now in exile in other countries. For this reason the terms ‘elect,’ and ‘chosen’ are used, because the Jews are the ‘elect’ of God, and the ‘chosen’ people. Even today Jewish people are referred to by these terms. It is the Jews who were chosen through the foreknowledge (God’s plan) to have Jesus live amongst them, and they are the first to become Christians because of this, although others quickly follow. This is not a verse that says only some people were made to go to heaven. That is absurd. God did not create people to go to hell, and this would contradict John 3:16 that states that whoever would believe in Him will have eternal life. Did God know that some of us would reject Him? Sure. But He did not make us without the choice to do so. Peter then reminds them that they are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation and a people who belong to God. (These are all terms for the Jews, which are now being applied to Christians.) Why? So that we might tell people about the God who brought us out of darkness and into the light. At one time we were not His people, but now we are His people. Before, we had not received God’s mercy (as the nation of Israel had), but now that mercy is available to us as well. Daily Read 2011-12-16T07:01:29+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_15th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_15th#When:07:01:10Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is James 1 James 2 James 3 James 4 James 5Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight James 1-5 Since James, the disciple, died early (Acts 12:2) this book is most likely written by James, the brother of Jesus (Mt. 13:55, Mk. 6:3), who became a leader of the church in Jerusalem (Gal. 1:19, 2:9, 12).. He comes to faith after Jesus appears to him after the resurrection (1 Cor. 15:7). He is known as ‘James the lesser,’ and ‘camel knees’ (apparently his knees were calloused from extended time in prayer). We are then told to consider it joy when we face trials in life. Why? Because trials test our faith. This helps us to learn to persevere, so that we may finish our work, and become mature, complete, not lacking in anything. Real life: This morning a nice young man posted on Face Book that he had to confront his boss (again) because his paycheck had bounced. Since the young man was a senior in high school living at home I was glad to see him have these issues to tackle young, when the paycheck was not quite as important as it soon will be. I knew that this experience would teach him much about confrontation that would help to make necessary life confrontation easier to handle in the future, when it is vitally important. Confrontation is necessary in life; things happen. Learning to handle it well is a blessing. It is always hard, and always stinks when it needs to be done. My advice: Be firm, speak with grace and be open to showing mercy when God shows you it is necessary. I think that this is one of those examples of what James is talking about here when he says that we should take ‘joy’ in our trials as the end result is that we will be better for having them. How we handle them also shows us where we are in our walk. Pressure shows us the true level of our maturity and where we need to improve. How do you behave when life does not go as you wish? Daily Read 2011-12-15T07:01:10+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_14th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_14th#When:07:01:23Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Hebrews 12 Hebrews 13 JudeStay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Hebrews 12-13 Keep your marriage bed pure (Do not cheat on your spouse) and honor other people’s marriages (Don’t flirt with married people.). God will judge the sexually immoral and the adulterers. Point to Ponder: Hebrews 13:4 tells us that marriage should be honored by all. This means that you do not flirt with (tempt, make them think they could do better) married people! You need to honor their marriage. Since we are brothers and sisters in Christ, male and female will of course interact and be friends, so this is an important point (Notice as you read scripture how many women Paul, a single man, honors for having ministered with him.). Before this time, in Jewish culture, the men and women were separated. Now the women and children are sitting at Jesus’ feet learning from Him (Think, it was a child who had the bread that He multiplied.), they are praying together (Think the upper room on Pentecost) and they are ministering together. This is all new. Being upright and respecting people’s marriages is now vitally important. Keep yourself free from the love of money. Be content with what you have, remembering that God has promised that He will be there for you, and will never leave or forsake you. God is your helper; fear no one. Jude Jude then tells them to make sure they are ‘building themselves up’ in their faith. How? They are to pray in the Spirit, and keep themselves in relationship with God as they wait for the day when God brings them into eternal life (The day of their death.). Jude then tells them how to deal with other people. They are to: 1. Be merciful to the people who have doubts. 2. Be tougher with some so that they are kept from the fire (hell). 3. To others, show mercy, mixed with fear. Hating their sin, but loving them. Jude then praises God. He tells us that it is God/Jesus who keeps us from falling and presents us to Him without fault. He reminds us that we only give glory, power, majesty and authority to God, through Jesus, who was before all ‘ages’ and will be forever more. FYI: Jude is telling us that Jesus is God. In Jude’s letter, the two are intertwined here. God is the one who keeps us from falling and presents us before Him without fault. He is our Savior. These are all attributes of Jesus, but Jude only mentions Jesus as the means through which God does these things. He reminds us to only worship God, but to do it through Jesus. He also tells us that Jesus is eternal, as is God. To Jude, Jesus and God are one. There is little distinction. Here the things Jesus did, God did. They are interchangeable, since they are one. Daily Read 2011-12-14T07:01:23+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_13th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_13th#When:07:01:12Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Hebrews 9 Hebrews 10 Hebrews 11Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Hebrews 9-11 Point to Ponder: Why the blood? What is up with the will, and the need for something to die? My opinion: The punishment for sin is death. To redeem someone, you must take their punishment for them. The animals could redeem man and atone for his sins only in part, because they were only externally without flaw (no one knew whether, or not the animal was indeed ‘perfect’ by only looking at its outsides.). Christ however, was perfect inside and out (and without sin). By dying in our place, He took the punishment we deserved for sinning, so that we would not have to. Why do we die as a result of sin? Because in sinning we are separating ourselves from God when we say we do not have to obey His rules, and we become our own God. Since God gives us life (and we cannot do this for ourselves), when we separate from Him, we begin to die. It is our choice to die. The will, is merely a metaphor we understand. God speaks of our ‘inheritance’ in scripture, but you do not receive it until the person who owns the stuff dies. Here we are told that by calling it an ‘inheritance’ God was telling us in scripture that He (Jesus, His son, whom He has given control over all things) was going to have to die, so we should not be surprised that this happened. Scripture told us that it would Daily Read 2011-12-13T07:01:12+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_12th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_12th#When:07:01:15Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Hebrews 5 Hebrews 6 Hebrews 7 Hebrews 8Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight We are then told that during His days on earth, Jesus prayed fervently. Why? Because of His reverence and submission. Although He was a ‘son,’ He learned submission though suffering. Once He was ‘made perfect’ (can also mean complete, as in His work was finished, or completed) He became the source of salvation for all who obey Him. He was designed by God, to be the High Priest, same as Melchizedek. Point to Ponder: Here the author is trying to describe Jesus as a High Priest and Son. This is difficult, because the whole ‘God as man, yet fully God’ concept is difficult. Remember this: In this culture sons are equal to the father as they are his replacement when he dies and are made in his image. Sons are submissive as long as their father is alive. Only God is our Savior. We are only to obey God. A Jew at this time would see that this author was making Jesus equal to God, as well as claiming that He was Melchizedek, and the ultimate High Priest and king. At this time there was some confusion as to what the Messianic prophecies meant. Some believed that there were to be two Messiahs, a priestly one, and a king. Here we are shown that Jesus is the priest-king Messiah. Melchizedek is then described. He is the king of Salem (which means peace, and is the future sight of Jerusalem) and the priest of the Most High God. He met with Abraham after Abraham miraculously defeated four king (who had just defeated 5 kings when he rescued Lot and his family and all those going into captivity with them). Abraham then gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything he had collected as plunder. His name means ‘king of righteousness,’ and his title means ‘king of peace.’ He has no father and mother, or ancestors. His life has no beginning or end. Like the Son of God, he is a priest forever. He was not a descendent of Levi (so not a Levitical priest), yet he was worthy of a tenth from Abraham. He also blessed Abraham, which implies that he had greater status then even Abraham had. We are then told that, although the tithe is typically collected by men who will die (the priests), it is truly collected by He who does not die (God). The author also points out that, since Levi was in Abraham’s loins at the time Abraham paid the tithe, that even Levi, to whom a tithe is paid to his descendents, originally paid a tithe to Melchizedek, making Melchizedek greater than Levi and his descendents (the priests). FYI: Giving a tenth implies that Melchizedek had something to do with the defeat of the kings, as if he were the ‘leader’ and Abraham owed him something. Since Abraham was under no king, but was only accountable to God, this does imply some kind of relationship between God and Melchizedek. Many believe that Melchizedek is an Old Testament appearance of Jesus for the reasons listed here. Since the author of this letter is trying to prove that there is no need to return to Temple worship and Judaism, they are very likely showing that Jesus is Melchizedek and is greater than Abraham as well as the priests. Daily Read 2011-12-12T07:01:15+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_11th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_11th#When:07:01:51Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Philemon Hebrews 1 Hebrews 2 Hebrews 3 Hebrews 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Philemon Philemon is a believer in Colosse. Apphia is his wife. Archippus is part of the church in Colosse (Col.4:17) and may be a leader. Onesimus is a slave who has stolen from his master and escaped. According to Roman law Philemon may now punish Onesimus any way he wishes, including killing him. According to God’s law, in Israel a Jew is not to return a runaway slave to his master (Dt.23:15). But they are not in Israel, and Paul has already told them to obey the earthly authority that God has placed over them. So, knowing God does not want the slave returned, but the laws of the land demand it, what do we do? Like always, there is a solution that solves all problems. Here Paul trusts the church to do the right thing. He writes a ‘strongly worded letter’ and addresses it not only to the people who ‘own’ Onesimis, but to the church and its leaders as well, ensuring that the letter will be read publicly. Paul also reminds them that he will be coming to visit soon to see if they have done the ‘right thing.’ He expects Onesimus to be free and a full contributing member of the church when he arrives. Paul relies on the people in the church to help persuade Philemon and his wife to do what is right. Hebrews 1-4 The people of Hebrews were not perfect, and that is the point here. They had faith, and it was their faith, not their works (even though some of them did some pretty good things) that made them right with God. Their good works merely showed their faith. Hebrews is also a letter to the Jews (Hebrews) showing them how Christianity ties in, and is better than, the current Jewish religion. God has moved on, and this letter shows the Jews why it is good to move forward, and how Christ fulfilled the prophesies inherent in the Jewish system of Temple worship, so it is okay to move on. Daily Read 2011-12-11T07:01:51+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_10th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_10th#When:07:01:51Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 2 Timothy 1 2 Timothy 2 2 Timothy 3 2 Timothy 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 2 Timothy 1-4 Paul then tells Timothy that everyone in the province of Asia has deserted him, including Phygelus and Hermogenes. Point to Ponder: Paul shares his troubles with Timothy as well. Even though Timothy is much younger that Paul, Paul does not pretend that his life is all put together, and that there is nothing wrong. He tells Timothy about his troubles as well. This is the essence of a true, mature relationship. If the older person pretends to be perfect, he will teach the younger person nothing of true living, except that you pretend and lie (and these are not good Christian traits!). Paul gives Timothy a list of instructions. They are: 1. To appoint reliable leaders who are qualified to teach to teach others. 2. Endure hardship like a soldier does. 3. Stay out of ‘civilian’ (non-Christian) affairs. (i.e. ‘Drama’ has no place in a Christian life. Avoid gossip, and getting caught up in immature squabbles.) 4. Work to please God like you would work to please your commanding officer. 5. Follow the rules. No athlete ‘wins’ unless he plays according to the rules. 6. The hard worker should receive the first share of the result of the work. (Reward the people who work hard when you can.) Paul then tells Timothy to reflect on these instructions, and that God will give him insight as to how to follow this advice. Point to Ponder: Notice that the only quality Paul emphasizes about the people Timothy is to appoint is their ability to teach. This means it is important. Christians need to grow in knowledge of the word. So… Who is teaching you? If you are not currently learning, look to change this. (Even teachers need to keep learning!) Daily Read 2011-12-10T07:01:51+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_9th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_9th#When:07:01:06Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 1 Timothy 5 1 Timothy 6 Titus 1 Titus 2 Titus 3Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 1 Timothy 5-6 Paul then tells Timothy to stop drinking only water and to drink a little wine for his illnesses and his stomach. This is medicinal use of wine. Since Timothy is serving the church at this time, he has likely taken a Nazirite vow, when he was set aside for the work. This was common in the early church, and we see hints of it in scripture, that we do not recognize because we do not take these vows today. (Num. 6, Acts 18:18, 21:23) Paul is telling him that it is okay for him to break his vow, because of his illness. Point to Ponder: So what was Timothy’s illness? We do not know. One amusing opinion is that he was getting ulcers and making himself sick being so young and trying to deal with the difficult personalities in this church! Paul then tells Timothy that the sins of some men are obvious, while the sins of others can only be told by the mess they leave. (The sins ‘trail behind’ them.) Good deeds can be seen in the same way. Titus 1-3 Point to Ponder: The concept of older women teaching the younger is new to this group of people. This is discipleship, and women are not disciples at this time in history. (Actually, Jesus has women called ‘disciples,’ (Mt. 12:49, Acts 9:36) but no one else does!) What Paul is describing is a rabbi/disciple relationship, except that Jesus taught that no one is to be called rabbi anymore, so you will not hear the title in scripture as it pertains to the church. In this culture, a rabbi would have students who ‘walked in the dust of his feet.’ This meant that they followed him closely and asked him why he did the things he did. At times the rabbi would also sit down and explain why he chose to do certain things as well. (Jesus did this.) Women are now supposed to do this with other women and teach them to be godly in real life. Men cannot do this for women, since they have different roles, nor can women do this for men (I know I cannot adequately teach a man how to avoid pornography, because I just don’t get it, just like a man cannot teach me how to manage children and my life in today’s society. Even though we talk about equal rights, woman and men still have different pressures and expectations.). For this reason, the older women teach the younger. (Here the older men are already teaching the younger men, since this is a standard custom at this time. Note Paul calling Titus his son at the beginning of this letter.) The sad part is that we have lost the art of discipleship for both men and women in today’s society. Part of the problem is that the younger person must be open to learning and criticism, and the older person must be open to being asked why they did something (which might uncover a flaw in their behavior). We have a real problem with admitting that we are not perfect, and this system definitely brings attention to both people’s flaws. But, it also is the best way for both people to grow and become better… Daily Read 2011-12-09T07:01:06+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_8th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_8th#When:07:01:43Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 1 Timothy 1 1 Timothy 2 1 Timothy 3 1 Timothy 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 1 Timothy 1-4 Point to Ponder: What does it mean to be handed over to Satan? My opinion: Paul is not helping these people, nor is he keeping them from the consequences of their actions. They are left alone so that they receive the full penalty for their actions. The hope is that they will see the error of their ways, by seeing what it causes in their lives and return to God. Sometimes we are to help people, and other times, when the problems in their lives are the results of bad behavior, we are to leave them alone to face the consequences. This is what I believe Paul is doing here. Typically, believers help. Here, the believers leave them alone. Paul then tells the women to learn in quietness and submission. FYI: This means that they are to shut up, sit down and listen too! It does not mean that they are not to participate, and cannot mean this since so many women in scripture are active in the early church. Women, at this time, in Jewish culture, were separated from the men in the synagogues and Tent of Meeting. This was not God’s plan. God had women working at the Temple. (Ex. 38:8, 1 Sam.2:22)Sometime later, contrary to scripture, the women were removed and segregated. Because of this they did not listen to the teachers, and went to mainly talk with the other women. Here Paul is telling them that church is for them too! Paul then tells them that he does not permit a woman to teach and usurp authority over a man. FYI: Paul is now addressing the Gentile issues regarding women. In pagan worship, the women are typically in charge of the church. They are the temple priestesses, and the men who serve are eunuchs. The reason the women are in charge is because in their culture women are better than men because they are the bearers of life. Paul is telling them that this is not so, for man was created first. (i.e. This evens things out.) He then points out that if the women behave, they will be saved (taken care of) through childbearing.  There are two explanations for what ‘saved through childbearing may mean. 1. If the women do not kick the men out, they will have a protector during the years that they are raising children. 2. Jesus was born of a human woman, without man, and saved the world. Some believe that this is what Paul meant here. So, God creates man first, but God comes into the world through the woman. Both get a ‘special’ role. Paul also reminds them that the woman was ‘deceived’ and is therefore not ‘perfect’ or ‘better’ than the man either. Point to Ponder: This is a touchy subject because some teach that Paul is excluding women from ministry. If you look at the list at the end of Romans ten out of the 28 people who serve are women, Phoebe is a deacon, and Junia is an apostle, so this cannot be so. Further, the word for authority here is found nowhere else in the Bible. All other places you find the word ‘authority’ in English translations, it is a different Greek word, and there is much debate as to what this means. To me, this verse is saying that women, while they are allowed to do more in the early church than they are in Jewish society, are not to follow the pagan example and take control of the church either. Since we see women in scripture and in the early church teaching people about God, it cannot mean that they cannot share the gospel, since no one got up and preached in the manner we do today (people with a message shared as God put it on their hearts 1 Cor. 14:26) and there were female prophets in the church who obviously spoke. There are also female disciples (Acts 9:36). Daily Read 2011-12-08T07:01:43+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_7th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_7th#When:07:01:08Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Colossians 1 Colossians 2 Colossians 3 Colossians 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Colossians 1-4 Point to Ponder: Yes, Paul is saying that strict rules are not what keep you from sin. It is your faith, and relationship with Christ that does this, not the ‘rules.’ The ‘rules’ do not truly work without Christ. I have raised three children who were adopted when they were older and who were originally brought up in homes with different morals and beliefs than we had. While I could keep them from actually sinning by being strict and vigilant, I could not change their hearts. That was between God and them. At some point you have to let a person go, and the opportunity to sin will be in front of them. Strict rules will not keep them from it, and since the want to sin (lust) is scripturally equal to the act, the rules just prevent the consequences, and do nothing to change the fact that they are bent on sinning. Our focus needs to be on faith and the heart, rather than the rules, for that is what has a true impact when it comes to the avoidance of sin. Not that we do not have rules to protect children from their own stupidity (I had many!), but they are not the solution to the problem. Rules are just a fence, and as children get older, if their heart is not right, the rules are a fence that is easily jumped. My point: Keep your heart close to God, and the ‘rules’ will be easily followed. Daily Read 2011-12-07T07:01:08+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_6th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_6th#When:07:01:30Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Philippians 1 Philippians 2 Philippians 3 Philippians 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Philippians 1-4 Paul says that if anyone thinks that circumcision and other works are going to save him because he has been so ‘good,’ Paul dares him to compare his ‘goodness’ with Paul’s. This is Paul’s list of ‘good works:’ 1. Circumcised 2. A Jew, of the tribe of Benjamin 3. A Hebrew of Hebrews (He obeys the traditions.) 4. A Pharisee (Very strict laws and rigorous religious training. Paul most likely has at least the first 5 books of the Bible memorized, if not the whole Old Testament.) 5. Zealous to persecute the church 6. Faultless when it came to legalistic righteousness All of this is nothing. The only thing that is truly important is knowing Christ. There is no righteousness that comes from the things he has done, but instead it is through faith in Christ that he is righteous. So this is what Paul desires: to know God, to know the power of His resurrection as well as sharing in His suffering. (Just like Christ was persecuted, so will we be.) Paul then tells us that he has not already attained this. But he forgets the useless and bad he has done in the past and looks to the future, so that he may attain the prize (eternal live with God). Daily Read 2011-12-06T07:01:30+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_5th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_5th#When:07:01:44Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Ephesians 5 Ephesians 6 Psalm 119:1-80Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Ephesians 5-6 Paul now tells us to be imitators of God. How? By living a life of love. He then reminds us that Christ gave up His life for us, so this is a love that is willing to do a lot for other people, and for God. He then tells us that we are to avoid certain things. The things to avoid are: 1. Even the hint of sexual immorality. 2. Any kind of impurity. 3. Greed. 4. Obscenity. 5. Foolish talk. 6. Course joking. (Remember, Paul just reminded us that Christ gave up His life for us. What are you willing to give up?) Psalm 119: 1-80 (We will only be reading half of the psalm today, and half at a later date, and no, I do not know why.) FYI: Psalm 119 is an acrostic poem. Each stanza begins with the letters of the Hebrew alphabet in order. This is, of course, not obvious in English. 1. You are blessed if you obey. a. What does obedience mean? i. Keep your ways blameless. ii. Keep God’s laws. iii. Seek God with all of your heart. iv. Do nothing wrong. v. Fully obey God. vi. Praise God with sincerity. vii. Learn His laws. Daily Read 2011-12-05T07:01:44+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_4th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_4th#When:07:01:51Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Ephesians 1 Ephesians 2 Ephesians 3 Ephesians 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Ephesians 1-4 Paul then explains God’s plan for salvation. He tells them that God meant for people to be with Him in a holy and blameless state even before creation. He tells us that it was His plan for us to be ‘adopted’ back into a relationship with Him through Christ. Even the timing of Christ’s coming was known before everything was made. It is God’s will to bring all creation, including Christ, together as one, under one head, God. We are included in Christ when we heard the words of truth and believed. When you believe you are marked with a seal, the Holy Spirit, who is a guarantee that our inheritance is true and that God will redeem us. FYI: Some teach that the people God has ‘chosen’ are a select group and that some of the people God has made are destined for hell because God made them to go there and they have no chance to be saved. This is not what Paul is talking about. Paul is talking about the people God created. They have been chosen to go to heaven. It was God’s plan for them to live with Him eternally. All they must do is believe. They were predestined (meaning this was God’s plan from the beginning) to be with God. At no point does Paul say that there are those who are destined for hell. The only time people going to hell are mentioned it is because they have chosen not to believe. It is never because God has created them to be eternally punished. That is not just, and God is just and fair. Daily Read 2011-12-04T07:01:51+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/christmas_at_copper_pointe http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/christmas_at_copper_pointe#When:00:00:42Z Join us at Copper Pointe Church this Christmas Eve and Christmas day for a spectacular service full of circus arts, dance, amazing worship, and much, much more! These services are a must-see for the whole family, so make plans to come, and invite your friends! You do not want to miss this chance to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ! Christmas Eve Saturday, December 24th 1pm • 3pm • 5pm Christmas Day Sunday, December 25th 11am When To Arrive Doors open one hour prior to service. Child Care Nursery and preschool up to 4 years old is available. 5 years old and up can enjoy Christmas services with their parents in the main auditorium. - this weekend only Events 2011-12-04T00:00:42+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_3rd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_3rd#When:07:01:17Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Romans 13 Romans 14 Romans 15 Romans 16Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Romans 13-16 Accept the person whose faith is weak without passing judgment on matters he disagrees with. One man’s faith will allow him to eat everything, while another’s allows him to eat only vegetables. The man who eats everything must not look down on the one who limits himself to vegetables, while the one who eats only vegetables must not condemn the man who eats everything for what he eats. We are all God’s servants, and it is not your place to judge how people serve God! God will decide whether this is right and cause the person to ‘stand’ (be honored) or fall. So, whatever we believe about these things is for God to judge. (We are not to judge others in these matters. They are to stay between ourselves and God!) The man who does not ‘condemn himself’ by eating, or drinking, things he approves of in front of someone who considers them to be unclean is blessed. (Remember, they are sacrificing something they enjoy for the sake of making their brother not jump out of his skin…) We must remember that the man who has ‘doubts’ and still believes things are ‘unclean’ does sin when he eats or drinks the things he believes to be wrong to eat and drink. When he eats, or drinks, it he is not eating because he has faith that God allows this. He is doing it for other reasons (i.e. to ‘fit in’ because other Christians are doing it’), and that makes it sin. (Remember, sin has more to do with motives. If you think it is wrong, and you do it, and then later discover that there was no rule against it, you have still sinned, because in your heart you meant to disobey what you thought was a rule from God.) Daily Read 2011-12-03T07:01:17+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_2nd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_2nd#When:07:01:05Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Romans 9 Romans 10 Romans 11 Romans 12Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Romans 9-12 Point to Ponder: What is meant when scripture tells us that God hated Esau, but loved Jacob? My opinion: Neither Esau now Jacob was living a godly life. God had prophecied that Jacob would be the heir. For this reason God wrestled with Jacob until he decided to change. This is how He ‘loved’ him. He would not let him get away until he came to belief. Esau however, was left to decide whether, or not, to follow God with only the normal amount of encouragement God gives, not the extraordinary encouragement Jacob received. This is how God hated Esau. God showed mercy and compassion on Jacob because he was to be the heir, the one chosen to carry on the godly line. It is not that Esau did not have a chance to come to God, he just did not get the special treatment his brother did. By the way, in scripture, to ‘hate’ something is more of an action. It means to keep it far away from you. To ‘love’ something means to keep it close. These are more ‘action’ words than emotions. Paul asks again if God rejected His people (the Jews). Paul tells them that He did not, and that he, himself, is a Jew. He then tells us that the Jews are the people that God foreknew. FYI: Some misread this section of scripture and teach that the people that God foreknew are not the Jews, but people who are chosen to go to heaven. This leads to teachings about people being created to go to heaven, while other people are created to go to hell, with no choice in the matter. If you read these passages correctly, keeping in mind that the definition of those whom God foreknew are the Jews (Rom. 11:2), then you will see that this is not so. Daily Read 2011-12-02T07:01:05+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_1st http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/december_1st#When:07:01:58Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Romans 5 Romans 6 Romans 7 Romans 8Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Romans 5-8 Point to Ponder: I speak with many people who are not Christians who tell me what ‘good’ people they are. (This typically happens after they find out what our family has been doing through the church.) Now I know these people, and I think, ‘What? You do not do any of the things you say you believe in!’ This is what Paul is talking about. Before you are with Christ, you mean to do a lot of good. You know in your heart what you should be doing, but most of the time you do not actually get around to doing any of it. Some people deceive themselves, and think that because they believe it, they must be doing something in their lives along those lines, but the truth is, most of them are not. This is why you will see politicians who want to ‘help the poor’ by giving away tax money who have in actuality given very, very little of their own wealth (which is considerable). They believe it is good to help the poor, they truly do, but their nature causes them to never getting around to actually doing it. In Christ, we are helped by the Holy Spirit to overcome this nature. It becomes easier to let go of your wealth and/or actually get off the couch and help the closer you get to God. Now, Paul admits that some people outside of Christ actually manage to do good things too, but he says that while they are acknowledging that the things are ‘good’ through their actions, they do not enjoy doing them because of the battle raging inside of them. As Christians, we not only have more of an ability to do what is good, but we are able to enjoy doing it as well! (Even as Christians though we may at times listen to the devil, and/or fall away from God, and struggle with our flesh. Close to God though, it becomes fun to serve!) Daily Read 2011-12-01T07:01:58+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_30th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_30th#When:07:01:40Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Romans 1 Romans 2 Romans 3 Romans 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Romans 1-4 They are told that because men have rejected God, he allows them to do what ought not to be done. This includes every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. Some are listed. They include: envy, murder, strife (causing arguments), deceit, malice, gossip, slander, God-hating, insolence, arrogance, boastfulness, inventing ways to do evil, and disobeying parents. These people can be senseless, heartless and ruthless. Although they know they are not supposed to do these things, they not only do them, but also approve of others who do them. Point to Ponder: This chapter sheds some light on why there is trouble in this world. First, since there is evil being done, people experience God’s wrath because of the evil. Second, God allows the evil people to have their way (free will), and they cause bad things to happen. I believe the reason God allows this is to show people the result of their actions and cause them to turn to Him. Their actions must have effects and consequences if they are going to realize that living contrary to God is wrong. This is part of the reason why bad things are allowed to happen in the world. We also need to look at this list in light of our own lives. Human nature has us focus on the sinful things that we do not do on the list, but there are many things on the list that many of us do, even though we profess to be Christian. Before you point your finger at someone else, make sure you are not: arrogant, boastful, a slanderer, a gossip etc. Many of us are doing these things, and this is another reason why our lives are not blessed. We too are reaping the penalty of our own sin. We just don’t like to see it that way. Daily Read 2011-11-30T07:01:40+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_29th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_29th#When:07:01:41Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 1 Thessalonians 4 1 Thessalonians 5 2 Thessalonians 1 2 Thessalonians 2 2 Thessalonians 3Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 1 Thessalonians 4-5 FYI: Sanctification means being set apart by God. I like to explain it by using a military analogy. Like all analogies, it has its flaws, but hopefully you will get the point. When we are sanctified, which all believers should be, it is like we are in the army reserves. We go to church on the weekends, and sometimes attend a few longer events, or may even do a short-term missions trip, but for the most part we go on with our daily lives. However, we are always prepared for the day that we may be called into full time service and are prepared to drop everything and go at a moments notice if needed. This means that we cannot be drunk, for that would make us unable to serve, and that we must keep our lives in order, so that there are not loose ends that need to be taken care of before we could go. This is living a sanctified life. Our good behavior, and careful care of what God has put under our authority, allow us to be His willing servants. Our good behavior also ensures that we will not tarnish His Name, whether we are on active duty, or just in training. (The military cares about this somewhat as well. Our men in uniform are encouraged to have their shirts tucked in and be neatly dressed at all times, because of what they represent. I thought it funny that my son was allowed to look like a typical teenaged boy right up until the time he was sworn in. When he came out of the office to the swearing in ceremony his shirt was tucked in and there was a belt holding his pants up! He was now part of something bigger, and he was going to respect that and look like it! Here, God is not as much concerned about our dress, but our actions.) 2 Thessalonians 1-3 They then tell the Thessalonians to keep away from any Christian who is lazy (idle). They remind them that they worked while they were with them, and paid for their own food, even though they had a right to ask for these things in return for their teaching. The rules is: If you will not work; you don’t eat! They also tell the people that some of them are not busy- they are busybodies. (People who don’t work, but like to meddle in everyone else’s business, where they do not belong. Sometimes this looks like work, but it is not.) They are then told not to get tired of doing what is right. They are told not to associate with the lazy or the busybodies so the person will feel ashamed and begin to do what is right. They are told not to regard the person as an enemy though, but continue to warn him as you would a brother. (i.e. with love) Point to Ponder: Have you ever become tired of doing what is right? Has it ever seemed like it would be easier just to be lazy and slack off when you see others getting away with it? Or worse, do you notice that you wind up with more work, because people know you will do a good job, when others won’t? (Bosses, make sure you are not punishing your good employees by giving them more and more work to do! Eventually they too will become lazy, or quit…) God says not to stop doing what is right. In talking to people who employ others know that your hard work is noticed. While you may not see it (It takes time to reward, or fire people.) doing what is right will eventually pay off. And even if your earthly boss does not, or cannot, reward you, your heavenly ‘Boss’ will! Daily Read 2011-11-29T07:01:41+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_28th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_28th#When:07:01:31Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 28 1 Thessalonians 1 1 Thessalonians 2 1 Thessalonians 3Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 28 FYI: Jesus is again claiming to be equal to God, for He now has all of the authority and power of heaven and earth. Further he accepts worship from the women and the disciples. He is commissioning the disciples to take His place, and teach, as he did. They are now the ‘rabbis’ since their master has technically died, only Jesus has instructed that no one who follows Him take the glory that the current rabbis of this time demand, so we will not see them using this title. Additionally, they also continue to call themselves ‘disciples’ because they teach that their rabbi is still alive, which would enable them to remain His disciples. (You cannot be a disciple of a dead man, they are hard to follow around and rarely speak….) By the way, disciple means ‘student.’ 1 Thessalonians 1-3 Instructions on how to live are given. They include: 1. Respect those who work hard, who have authority over you in the Lord, and who admonish you. (These are the people who tell you things you need to hear, but do not necessarily like to hear in order to make your life better, like a father does.) 2. Live in peace. 3. Warn the idle (lazy). 4. Encourage the timid. 5. Help the weak. 6. Be patient with everyone. 7. Do not pay back wrong with wrong. (i.e. ‘He did it to me first’ is not a good excuse!) 8. Always try to be kind to everyone. 9. Be joyful always. (Our attitude is a choice!) 10. Pray continually. 11. Give thanks in all situations. 12. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. (Allow God to work in your life.) 13. Do not treat prophecies with contempt. 14. Test everything. (This includes prophecy!) 15. Hold onto what is good. 16. Avoid all kinds of evil. Daily Read 2011-11-28T07:01:31+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_27th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_27th#When:07:01:37Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Psalm 125 Matthew 26 Matthew 27Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Psalm 125 People who trust is God are like Mount Zion. They: 1. Cannot be shaken. 2. They endure forever. 3. The Lord surrounds them now and forever. The rule of the wicked will not remain over any land that is set aside for the righteous. Why? Because if evil is allowed to rule the righteous may turn to doing evil. Point to Ponder: Throughout scripture we are warned about associating with evil. The more we are near it the more likely we are to copy it ourselves. Here we are told that God will help to keep evil rulers away from those who are truly righteous. Matthew 26-27 Jesus then takes the bread, gives thanks and breaks it. He gives it to His disciples and tells them to eat of it, for this is His body. FYI: This is the unleavened bread of the Passover feast, typically called Matzah. (You can buy some in most supermarkets most of the year if you wish to try it. It similar saltine crackers.) The unleavened bread is striped and pierced to ensure that it does not rise. Jesus is striped (whipped) and pierced (sword in His side) during the crucifixion. The bread is placed on the table in a stack consisting of three pieces. The middle piece is broken. Half is put back into the stack and the other half is then hidden. The children try to find the hidden piece and a reward is given to the one who finds it. The three pieces represent the triune nature of God. The piece that is broken represents Jesus’ body. Half stays with God, while half (His body) is hidden (in the tomb) to be discover later. It is this piece that is broken and eaten by the disciples. Jesus is explaining that there is symbolism in the Passover feast that tells about what He is going to do. Jesus then takes the cup, gives thanks and gives it to His disciples to drink. He tells them that this is the cup of His covenant, which has been poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. He then tells them that He will not drink wine again until He drinks it in His father’s kingdom. FYI: There are 4 glasses of wine, which are drunk during the Passover meal. The first is the cup of salvation, the second is the cup of judgment/ or deliverance, the third is the cup of redemption and the fourth is the cup of the kingdom. The cup Jesus is passing is the second cup, the cup of judgment or deliverance. (The cup can be called either the cup of judgment or the cup of deliverance, it just depends on whether you are focusing on the judgments that came to the Egyptians, or the fact that God delivered the Jewish people from them. Remember, the Jewish people had not kept themselves completely pure of idolatry in Egypt, and they too deserved to be punished. Lev. 17:7) In Jewish tradition this symbolizes the judgments (plagues) God placed on Pharaoh and his people, but saved the Israelites from. Jesus is saying that His blood covers their sins, so that their sins are forgiven and they do not have to face the judgment. They now sing the psalms and then go up to the Mount of Olives. (The Jewish people traditionally sing Psalms 113-118 at Passover. They are psalms of praise to God.) Daily Read 2011-11-27T07:01:37+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_26th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_26th#When:07:01:00Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 23 Matthew 24 Matthew 25Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 23-25 Jesus is teaching about the kingdom of heaven again. This time He tells us that it is like ten virgins who take their lamps to go out to meet the bridegroom. (Here virgin means young lady, and these are the bridesmaids. During this time the groom would show up somewhat ‘unannounced’ and the bride and her friends would wait for him. They knew he was coming soon, they just did not have an exact time.) We are then told that 5 of the young ladies were foolish and 5 were wise. It seems that 5 brought their lamps, but did not bring extra oil to put in them. (The lamps were small and held only a little oil. Typically you would carry an oilskin and refill the lamp often. People at this time grew up using these lamps, so this was not a new concept for these girls.) The bridegroom arrives is later than they expected, and the foolish girls realize that their lamps are going out. They ask the wise girls for oil. The wise girls tell them that there will then not be enough oil for everyone and all of their lamps will be out. They send them away to buy oil. While they were gone the bridegroom arrives and the wedding feast begins. The door is locked. When the foolish girls return they knock on the door and ask to be let in. The bridegroom answers that he does not know them and does not let them in. Jesus then tells them that they are to keep watch, for they do not know the day or the hour either. FYI: The foolish girls are like bridesmaids who show up without their dresses and make up and then expect the wedding to be delayed to accommodate them. They are not true friends of the bride, for they do not care enough for her to arrive prepared. Instead they expect her, and the other bridesmaids to cater to their needs, which are a result of their lack of planning. The church is the bride of Christ. The bridesmaids are self-absorbed people who inconvenience others because they do not think about anyone, and do not take care of their responsibilities. Instead they expect others to take care of the things they were suppose to do but didn’t. This type of attitude is not the attitude of a person who truly loves the bride and wants to bless her. A groom, in the case God/Jesus, cares about how you treat his bride. If you do not love her and treat her with respect, then you do not love him. If you loved Him, then you would of course care for His wife! In this parable however, the deeper meaning is about the end of the age. We will not know when Jesus will return (and if He is like the groom in this parable it will be later than we think) but we are to be prepared so that we are ready whenever He comes. How are you ready? By maintaining a faithful relationship with Him and His bride (the church), and doing what is right with what He has given you to do. Daily Read 2011-11-26T07:01:00+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_25th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_25th#When:07:01:22Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 20 Matthew 21 Matthew 22Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 20-22 As Jesus enters Jerusalem (likely behind the Passover lambs) the people place their cloaks and branches on the road. (Remember the road is messy. Lots of poop from other travelers, and in this case, the lambs.) They sing Hosanna (Save us) and call Him the Son of David (a Messianic term for the king of David’s line whose throne is to be established forever). They also say ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord,’ indicating that they believe Him to be doing the will of God. Here we see that they still do not fully understand who Jesus is for they call Him the prophet from Nazareth. Jesus then goes into the Temple area and drives out those who are buying and selling there. FYI: The area Jesus ‘cleans’ is the only area that the Gentiles are allowed in. It is outside the Temple area. So, the only thing the Gentiles see of the Jewish religion is the vendors who are likely ripping people off because they are the only ones that have the ‘acceptable’ coins and items needed to participate in Temple activities. (The coin problem is that Roman coins often have images of men on them, and the statement ‘Son of the Divine’ on them, which the Jews see, correctly, as idolatry.) Point to Ponder: Jesus fulfills a few prophecies by clearing the Temple. Matthew tells us that this is what the prophets were referring to when they said that God’s house was to be a house of prayer, but the people have made it a den of thieves. (Jer. 7:11) It also coincides with what the Jewish people are doing at that time. The week before Passover a Jewish family cleans their home so there is not one crumb of leaven in it. Leaven, in scripture, often represents sin. Jesus is cleaning His house, the Temple. Daily Read 2011-11-25T07:01:22+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_24th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_24th#When:07:01:43Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 17 Matthew 18 Matthew 19Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 17-19 Point to Ponder: What does Jesus mean by ‘faith as small as a mustard seed?’ Many teach that this just means that you only need a little faith to move mountains. I disagree. The disciples did have faith, at least a little, and performed many miracles. If they only needed the tiniest bit of faith then the boy would have been healed. Another teaching is that the mustard seed is small, yet it knows that it has the potential to be a big tree. If we only believe that we too are ‘big’ (i.e. Have faith that we are part of something bigger, something awesome) then we too would be able to move mountains as well. Jesus asks the disciples who the greatest in the kingdom of heaven is. He then asks a child to stand before them, and explains that unless they humble themselves like a child they will never be great in heaven. Point to Ponder: A child has no standing in Jewish culture, and if this were a female child (even the Greek does not indicate which gender the child is) then it is truly a person of low standing. (Which is why I believe it probably is a little girl.) Remember, at this time (against God’s instructions) the women and children were only allowed to go so close to the Temple and no further. The disciples throughout Jesus’ ministry are arguing over who is the greatest. Jesus is now telling them to be happy with the status of a child. Not really what they want to hear, since Jewish society is very interested in who is better than whom. If you go to eat at another person’s home you will be seated in order of importance, so everyone knows who is ‘better.’ Only Jesus’ disciples are clueless as to their rank within His group. Daily Read 2011-11-24T07:01:43+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_23rd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_23rd#When:07:01:24Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 14 Matthew 15 Matthew 16Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 14-16 Point to Ponder: People teach binding and loosing in many different ways. While the definitions are different, the teaching is the same. For example, some people teach that if you ‘bind’ something, you bind it to you, and if you ‘loose’ it, you let it go far from you. Others say that ‘binding’ something is akin to tying it up, while ‘loosing’ it, is allowing it to roam free and be in your life. Another way of describing this (and the way I believe is the more correct) is in terms of land boundaries. If you ‘bind’ something, you put a fence around it and tell people that there is a boundary that they should not cross. If you ‘loose’ something, you leave it unfenced for everyone to use. Regardless of how you define binding and loosing, the point is that what you chose to set as boundaries is respected in heaven. It is a form of authority. When dealing with people, if we tell someone not to touch something of ours, and they do, then they have sinned. I believe it works the same for the demonic. If we tell a demon to go, he must, but if we listen to him, and allow him to stay, heaven will respect our (bad) decision to do that as well. Jesus then tells them that the Son of Man will come in His Father’s glory (the glory the Jews saw in the desert and knew resided in the Holy of Holies) with His angels, and He will give each person rewards according to what he has done. He also promises that some who are there will not taste death before the Son of Man is seen coming in His kingdom. (Jesus rises to heaven in their presence, fulfilling this prophecy.) FYI: Jesus is again calling Himself God. Since God is One, the only way someone could come in the glory of God, lead His angels and judge people (remember that God is a judge throughout the Old Testament) is to be God. Daily Read 2011-11-23T07:01:24+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_22nd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_22nd#When:07:01:04Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 11 Matthew 12 Matthew 13Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 11-13 The Pharisees then ask Jesus to perform a miracle for them. Jesus says no, and tells them that the only sign they will have is that the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the earth. He calls this the ‘sign of Jonah.’ He then tells them that the men of Nineveh, who repented when they heard Jonah’s message, will stand in judgment over the men of today (Jesus’ time), since these men repented after only having Jonah preach to them, but you have someone greater than Jonah talking to you. FYI: Jesus is again calling Himself God. He is calling Himself greater than Jonah, a prophet. The only one greater than a prophet in Jewish culture, is the one who gives the prophet his message, God. Jesus then tells them that the Queen of Sheba will also stand in judgment against them. She traveled far to listen to the wisdom of Solomon, and they have someone greater then Solomon here. (The implication here is that even though they have someone greater than Solomon with them, they are not listening.) FYI: Jesus is again calling Himself God. Scripture says that Solomon is the wisest man who has ever lived. The only one then who is wiser than Solomon is the one who gave Solomon his wisdom, God. By the Way: In using non-Jewish people (the men of Nineveh, and the Queen of Sheba, who is also a woman!) Jesus is really insulting them. The Pharisees believe that they are ‘the best’ and part of this elitist feeling is based in the fact that they are Jews- God’s chosen people. Telling them that non-Jews repented and will be with God, and implying that they will not is worse than a ‘your mama’ joke. Jesus is hitting them hard. Point to Ponder: In saying that these people will stand in judgment, Jesus is not saying that they will be the judges. Instead He is saying that they came to faith in the Lord through much less ‘proof’ than you, who did not come to faith, had. These people are therefore ‘proof’ or ‘evidence’ that you had an opportunity to respond to God that was reasonable, yet did not do so. Daily Read 2011-11-22T07:01:04+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_21st http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_21st#When:07:01:39Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 8 Matthew 9 Matthew 10Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 8-10 FYI: A Jewish man during this time would not go into a Gentile’s house, especially one who is so clearly a part of the Roman oppression of Israel (Acts 10:28). Jesus has no problems offering to go into the centurion’s home. He also has no problem telling people that the centurion will be sitting with the patriarchs (Jewish big-wigs- Abraham, Isaac and Jacob) in heaven, while many Jews will not. You can see why Jesus upset the rulers here. Point to Ponder: How can we be shrewd as snakes, yet innocent as doves? I believe what Jesus is trying to say is that you must be aware of the way wicked people think, and deal appropriately with it, but never, ever do we stoop to their level by using the same slimy methods. (As your mother probably said, ‘Two wrongs do not make a ‘right.’” So just because they are doing it to us, does not make it okay for us to do it to them.) Daily Read 2011-11-21T07:01:39+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_20th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_20th#When:07:01:10Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 5 Matthew 6 Matthew 7Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 5-7 FYI: When the rule an ‘eye for an eye’ was given it was a more merciful standard then what was being done. Before Hammurabi’s code it was common to die for minor offenses. Now Jesus is saying that if someone slaps you, a minor offense, give him another chance. If someone tries to take your clothes, assume they are cold and offer them more clothes as well. If someone asks you to do your duty, bless them and do extra. (At this time a Roman soldier could ask you to carry his pack for a mile, but no more. This enabled the soldier to have his hands free to protect people on the road, while still being able to take along what he needed. The Jews hated this.) Jesus then tells people to love their enemies. Jesus points out that even the pagans are good to the people they like. The true test is how you behave towards those you don’t like. (Sometimes for good reason.) Point to Ponder: While many people can explain the law, only people with authority can change, or modify the law. And only the person, who had originally made the law, can tell you why the law was made and how to correctly apply it. Jesus is doing all of this. Since God is the only one with the authority, and knowledge, to do this, Jesus’ actions say He is God. Daily Read 2011-11-20T07:01:10+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_19th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_19th#When:07:01:10Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Matthew 1 Matthew 2 Matthew 3 Matthew 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Matthew 1-4 Matthew begins with the genealogy of Jesus. He starts with Abraham and follows Joseph’s line. FYI: Joseph and Mary are both of the line of David, but Joseph is descended from Solomon, and Mary through David’s son Nathan. Point to Ponder: Joseph has no blood relationship to Jesus, yet the angel is giving him messages and treating him as the person in charge of the household. Although God has not chosen to have Joseph related by blood to Jesus, He clearly wishes Jesus to be raised by him! Joseph is clearly Jesus’ earthly father, by God’s choice. Mary is not the only one God talks to! (This is also not saying that God only talks to the husband either. In the case of Samson’s parents God spoke to the wife, and when the husband asked for confirmation God confirmed it by telling him to listen to his wife. Judges 13) Joseph’s lineage is also used hear to confirm that Jesus is indeed of David’s line showing that God honors the person who raises a child as being his ‘real’ father, even to the point of able to use the adoptive father’s lineage to show his ancestry. Daily Read 2011-11-19T07:01:10+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_18th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_18th#When:07:01:36Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Psalm 124 2 Corinthians 11 2 Corinthians 12 2 Corinthians 13Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Psalm 124 Unseen Mercies If God had not been with us the people who attacked us would have swept us away. Praise God who has not let us be torn apart. He has allowed us to escape from being ensnared. Our help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth. 2 Corinthians 11-13 Paul asks if it was a sin for him to preach for free to the Corinthians while the other churches, like Macedonia (not rich), paid to support him. (This is a rhetorical question. The answer is, ‘No, because you were children, but now that you have grown up, you should be supporting your teachers.’) Paul then tells them that he is planning his third visit to them. He tells them that he is not going to exploit them for money, and reminds them that men, like Titus, also did not ask for excessive things. He states that he wants them, not their money. He also tells them that children should not have to save up for their parents, but that is what parents do for their children. (i.e. Paul is a ‘father’ to them, and they should not expect to be exploited by their father for money.) FYI: Paul is balancing his earlier teaching here. He says that they should support him, but that the people who preach should not place excessive burdens on them and expect extravagant support, exploiting them to become rich. Point to Ponder: Some men of God do become rich. The Old Testament clearly states that God blesses the righteous, so how do we know who God is blessing, and who is exploiting the church? It really comes down to where the money comes from. Revenue from books that are reasonably priced, being paid fairly for the hard work that they do, and surprising turns of events in their investments are evidence of blessing. Overcharging people, demanding more than is customary, using emotional tactics to get people to give etc are suspect. Daily Read 2011-11-18T07:01:36+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_17th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_17th#When:07:01:00Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 2 Corinthians 7 2 Corinthians 8 2 Corinthians 9 2 Corinthians 10Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 2 Corinthians 7-10 Paul then teaches them that Godly sorrow leads to repentance. That God intends us to be sorrowful, so that we are not harmed (punished) in any way by those in authority over us. (God does not want to punish us! But will if He needs to in order to get us to repent.) Paul then points out that Godly sorrow produces an earnestness in us, an eagerness to clear our name, indignation, alarm, longing, concern, and a readiness to see justice done. He then reminds them that worldly sorrow brings death. Point to Ponder: So what is ‘worldly sorrow?’ My opinion: It is likely when you are upset, not because of what you have done, but because you got caught and/or you are upset that you are being ‘punished.’ It is also when you are upset over any selfish reason, like not getting a promotion you were in no way qualified for, or not having as much as someone else.   Daily Read 2011-11-17T07:01:00+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_16th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_16th#When:07:01:49Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is 2 Corinthians 3 2 Corinthians 4 2 Corinthians 5 2 Corinthians 6Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight 2 Corinthians 3-6 Paul then reminds them that it is written that ‘I believed, therefore I have spoken.’ This means that the faith that brought us to believe should also make us speak and tell others. This is because we know that God, who raised Jesus, will also raise us. Because we know this, we do not lose heart. Even though our bodies are wasting away, inwardly we are being renewed by God. Our momentary troubles are gaining us eternal glory that far outweighs them all. For this reason we fix our eyes on the unseen, not the seen (our current suffering), since what is seen is temporary, but what we do not see is eternal. Daily Read 2011-11-16T07:01:49+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_15th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_15th#When:07:01:37Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 41 Job 42 2 Corinthians 1 2 Corinthians 2Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 41-42 Point to Ponder: Notice that God has Job acting like a priest to his friends by making sacrifices for their sins. Today we often try to end a conversation with everyone feeling like they were ‘right’ in some way. This is not what God does. He is honest about right and wrong, and places Job’s friends in a humble position. If you haven’t noticed, God likes us to be humble. Humility is good for us. When deserved. Job did nothing to deserve the humiliation his friends put him through. They were asking Job for ‘false’ humility and it was wrong. Job’s friends needed to humble themselves and accept that Job forgave them for it. This was good. Do you see the difference? When you do nothing wrong, no false humility- that is not godly and it hurts the person you are asking it from. When you do this you hurt the person by badgering them with undeserved words. If you have done this you need to humble yourself, ask for, and accept their forgiveness. This is good. (Sometimes we ask for forgiveness and then resent the person for not just ignoring our bad behavior. This is not good either.) Too often we ask both parties to humble themselves and say they are sorry even when one person has obviously done nothing wrong just to make the other person ‘feel good.’ This is not godly, and is not how God handles things here. (Of course in many situations both people have messed up, and must ask for, and accept, forgiveness, but that is not the example given here.) Real life: How many times as a child were you made to apologize when you had done nothing wrong? How did it make you feel? Exactly! It just makes you more upset and angry. This is called driving people to wrath. Whenever possible, avoid doing it! 2 Cor. 1-2 Paul then tells them how to handle people who have caused you grief in the past, but have repented. He says that the punishment that was given to him was sufficient (for it brought him to repentance, which is the purpose of punishment) and that now you are to forgive and comfort him, so that the person will not be overcome by excessive sorrow over what he had done. Paul then urges them to reaffirm their love for him, and promises that if they forgive anyone, Paul will forgive the person too. (ie You will not have to go through the process again. What is done is done.) FYI: While there were many problems in the church listed in 1 Corinthians, Paul is most likely referring to the man who was sleeping with his step-mother, who had been put out of the church. The man is now back and is repentant. Paul tells them that his punishment is over. (i.e. He is not to be punished any more.) Instead they are to forgive, reaffirm their love and comfort him. Point to Ponder: When someone is repentant, we need to go above and beyond to make sure they know that we have truly forgiven them, and that we honestly love them. This is not easy to do, but remember, it is also not easy to truly repent and rejoin the people you hurt, who had to set boundaries that involved excluding you for a time. Too often we want to continue to make the person pay for what they have done. This is not godly, and we must get this urge under control. (Joseph is a good example of this as well. When he is sure that his brothers are truly repentant, he fully accepts them into his life. Then, after their father dies they fear that Joseph will now exact his revenge on them. He comforts them and tells them that he still loves them. (Gen. 42-50. Gen, 50:15-17 tells us about the brothers’ fear after their father dies and how Joseph handles it.) Daily Read 2011-11-15T07:01:37+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_14th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_14th#When:07:01:35Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Psalm 149 1 Corinthians 15 1 Corinthians 16Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Psalm 149 Praise the Lord How? 1. Sing to the Lord a new song. (New music is Biblical! We do not have to stick with the old standards, though there is nothing wrong with using them as well. Many psalms were repeatedly sung on special days in Israel.) 2. Praise God when the believers assemble together. (This implies that you should be getting together with other believers for worship. Ie. Go to church.) 3. Let Israel (believers) rejoice in their Maker. 4. Be happy that God is your King. 5. Praise Him with dancing. 6. Make music with the tambourine and harp. 7. Rejoice in His honor. 8. Sing for joy at home. (Beds here may refer to those you sleep on or the couches you recline on for meals. While it is good to praise God everywhere, this most likely means that we are to praise God when we sit down to eat. At this time in history they reclined on couches, aka ‘beds.’) 9. May God’s praises always be on your lips. (This implies that we should not constantly be complaining.) Why? 1. Because God is delighted when His people praise Him. 2. Because God gives the humble salvation. 3. God’s praise is like a double-edged sword in your hands. (It protects you.) How? It inflicts punishment and vengeance by causing God to carry out the judgment they deserve so that the believers are glorified. 1 Cor. 15-16 If we preach Christ raised from the dead, how are some of you still saying that there is no resurrection of the dead? FYI: There was a major debate about the resurrection of the dead at this time in history. Some, like the Sadducees, believed that when you were dead, that was it, you were gone. But others, like the Pharisees, believed in life after death (the resurrection of the dead). Apparently some people here are claiming to believe that Christ rose from the dead, but that when you die, you are just worm-food. Paul is telling them that that makes no sense at all. Paul then begins to answer some of their questions like, ‘How are the dead raised?, and ‘What kind of body will I have? ‘ Paul reminds them that when they plant a seed it does not come to life until it dies. He tells them that the seed has one kind of body that God has given it, but then God gives it a new kind of body. Paul tells them that heavenly bodies will be different from earthly bodies. He tells them that just as they have born the resemblance of the earthly man (Adam), they will later resemble the heavenly man (Christ). FYI: Remember that there are people who have seen Christ after He was raised and would know what this body looks like. Since they recognized Christ as Christ we can assume it will be similar, but Paul point out that it will be raised in glory, power, and will be spirit. So not exactly like our old bodies either. Daily Read 2011-11-14T07:01:35+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_13th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_13th#When:07:01:14Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 39 Job 40 1 Corinthians 13 1 Corinthians 14Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 39-40 Job then tells God that he is unworthy to talk to God. God speaks out of a storm and tells Job to ‘brace himself’ like a man and answer Him. He also tells Job that he cannot ‘save’ himself. (ie Only God can save us. Notice in scripture that there are many, many times where God tells us not to fear or to be strong and courageous. This is the attitude God wants from His people.) FYI: Here we are told about an animal known as the behemoth. It seems to be a dinosaur. It eats grass, has powerful muscles in its belly, a tail as thick as a cedar, strong thighs, bones like bronze, and limbs like iron. 1 Cor. 13-14 Paul then tells the women to be silent in church. Since we see women prophets, deacons, teachers and apostles in the New Testament this cannot mean that women cannot participate in church. (Rom.16:1-16) So what does it mean? The most likely interpretation is that Paul is telling the women not to talk in church (i.e. Shut up and sit down and listen to the message) because they are to learn and participate too. At this time in a Jewish synagogue the women were separated from the men and they would sit around and talk to each other instead of paying attention. Paul does not want this. Instead, the women are to learn. They too are to be in submission to the rules he has laid out for the church regarding order, and if they have any questions, they are to go home and ask their husbands to teach them. (This is also new, since women weren’t often taught.) Paul then repeats that it is disgraceful for women to talk in church. (This is like telling a child that it is improper for them to talk in church and disrupt the service, which we do today.) Point to Ponder: Many people use these verses to keep women from serving in the church, but that cannot be. In this same letter (1 Corinthians 11:5) Paul talks about women praying and prophesying in church.  God has also called Philip’s four virgin daughters to prophecy and since the purpose of prophecy is to edify the church, if the women were not to speak then their gifting is thwarted. Teaching that this means that women cannot participate in church therefore makes no sense. Women in the New Testament hold every position assigned to a man. FYI: No one, male or female, is specifically called ‘pastor’ or ‘overseer’ in the New Testament, but the woman in 2 John is called kuria, which means ‘Lord, or master.’ Since she is female, we translate this as ‘Lady,’ not Lord. We do not know what she is Lord, or master of though. You will have to read the letter and decide for yourself. FYI: Some Women in the Bible Prophets: Anna (Lk 2:36), Philip’s 4 virgin daughters (Acts 21:9), Huldah (2 Kings 22:14, 2 Chron. 34:22), Deborah (Judges 4-5), Miriam (Ex.15:20), Isaiah’s Wife (Is. 8:3), Noadiah (Neh. 6:14) Supported Jesus’ ministry financially: Mary, Susanna and Joanna (Lk 8:3) Disciple: Tabbitha (Acts 9:36) Taught Apollos: Priscilla w/ husband (Acts 19:25) Deaconess: Phoebe (Rom. 16:1)She also delivered the letter to the Romans to the church, which means that she likely read it and answered any questions they had when she arrived. Fellow workers: Priscilla (Rom. 16:3), Mary (Rom. 16:6), Tryphena & Tryphosa (Rom.16:12), Persis (Rom. 16:12), Julia (Rom.12:15), Nereus’ sister (Rom.12:15), Euodia & Syntche (Phil. 4:2) Apostle: Junias (Rom.16:7) ‘Mother’ to Paul: Rufus’ mother (Rom. 16:13) Head of households: Chloe (1 Cor. 1:11), Lydia (Acts 16:40), Nympha (Col. 4:15) Church in their home: Nympha (Col. 4:15), Chosen Lady (2 John- FYI Lady is translated from the Greek word kurias, which in the masculine means ‘Lord, or Master.’ The only other person given this title in scripture is Jesus. She is clearly in charge of something. You will have to read 2 John and decide what that may be. It is not clear from the text.) Led Israel: Miriam (Micah 6:4), Deborah (Judges 4-5), Athaliah (2 Kings 11:1-3-evil), Salome (inter-testament period) Song Leader: Miriam (Ex. 15:21) Saves the people of Israel: Jael (Judges 4:21), wise woman at Abel Beth Macaah (2 Sam. 20:14-22), Esther (Esther) Built Cities: Sheerah (1 Chron. 7:24) Works at Temple: many women (enough to build large wash basins with their mirrors) (Ex. 35:25, Ex.38:8, 1 Sam. 2:22) Repeatedly receives messages from God even though her husband asks for one: Samson’s mother (Judges 13) Tells others about Christ: Women at the tomb (John 20:18), Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:28-30) Daily Read 2011-11-13T07:01:14+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_12th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_12th#When:07:01:39Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 37 Job 38 1 Corinthians 12Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 37-38 Elihu then tells Job that God is awesome and that he does not oppress people. God then answers. God asks Job’s friends why they speak without knowledge. He asks where they were when He created everything. Point to Ponder: God is not saying that He does oppress people, but just that we do not always have enough information to know what is truly going on. The book of Job does not give us enough information to know everything either. The point is that Job is not guilty, and is being tested. Why? We do not truly know. The point is that we don’t know, so unless we see the sin, don’t guess and don’t judge. 1 Corinthians 12 Here are the lists of ‘gifts’ Paul mentions: apostles (This word means ‘one who is sent out.’ Today we might think of them as missionaries or church planters.), prophets, teachers, miracle-workers, those with the gift of healing, those with the gift of ‘helps,’ administrators, and speaking in tongues. Paul then tells us (through the use of rhetorical questions) that not everyone will have all the gifts, but that we should eagerly desire them. Point to Ponder: So what would the gift of ‘helps’ look like? I believe that these are the people who jump right in and can clean up a mess, almost miraculously, in record time. They love going on missions trips after natural disasters, as well as pitching in with the clean-up after someone has a fire etc. They are an awesome resource, and not greatly admired because it looks like something anyone could do, except that most people don’t. That doesn’t mean that we should not help if we do not have this gift, but just that these people excel in these situations because of their supernatural gift. So don’t feel bad if you do not seem to measure up in a certain area! Do what you can do, and figure out what gifts you have as well. Daily Read 2011-11-12T07:01:39+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_11th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_11th#When:07:01:30Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Psalm 122 1 Corinthians 9 1 Corinthians 10 1 Corinthians 11Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Psalm 122 We are then told what to pray for with regard to Jerusalem. 1. Peace in Jerusalem. 2. For those who love Jerusalem to be secure. 3. Peace within the walls. (ie No civil wars, or in-fighting between Jews.) 4. Security within its citadels. (Places people go for safety when attacked.) We are then told that, for the sake of the house of the Lord, we are to seek Jerusalem’s prosperity. Point to Ponder: What does it mean to seek the prosperity of Jerusalem for the sake of the house of the Lord? It means that because God’s Temple is there, we should work to make Jerusalem prosperous so that God will be glorified. (Seeing God’s people destroy the city God has His Temple in would definitely not lead people to God. Instead it would make God look bad.) Today this would also mean to work for the ‘prosperity’ of the church. The church represents God since it is the place where people now meet to worship Him. When the church is poor, falling apart, fighting or in any other way being made to look bad because the people in it do not seem to care enough to take care of it and the problems that occur in it we do not set an example that would draw anyone to the Lord. The fact the people do get saved in churches that behave this way is proof that God can overcome anything, but should He need to? 1 Corinthians 9-11 People are judging Paul, and he obviously does not like it. (Who does?) Here he asks: Does he not have a right to food and drink? Does he not have a right to take along a believing wife like the other apostles, Jesus’ brothers and Peter (aka Cephas) do? Or is it only he and Barnabas who must work for a living?! (Apparently, when the others come to a place the people fully support them, so that all they have to do is teach. When Paul comes, this is apparently not the case, and, since Paul is single, it would take less to provide for him.) Paul then continues his rant asking: Who serves as a soldier at his own expense?  Who plants a vineyard and does not eat the grapes? Who tends a flock and does not drink the milk? Paul then points out that you are not to muzzle an ox while it is working according to God’s law. He says that he believes that this does not apply just to the oxen, but to humans too. So if he and Barnabas are sowing spiritual seeds among them, is it too much to ask for some material support from them too? Especially since others are receiving support from them. He then says that he did not exert his right to receive support because he did not want to hinder the gospel. He reminds them that the priests at the Temple receive food from the offerings offered there, so shouldn’t those who preach Christ also receive something? He again states that he did not use his right to receive pay, and that he is not writing this so that he will receive pay. He clarifies that preaching the gospel has its own rewards, IF it is done voluntarily. If it is preached with the intent of making money, then there is no other reward. (i.e. If you go into preaching in order to make money, you will only get money- no spiritual reward. If you go into preaching with the intent to save souls, then even if you do make money, there will be a spiritual reward as well.) Paul then tells them that although he is a free man, he has made himself a slave to everyone in order to win as many people to Christ as possible. So, when he was with Jews he followed Jewish law and customs even though he knows he is not obligated to do so. When he was with the Greeks, he followed their customs, though he obeyed the laws of God. To the weak (I believe here he is referring to the poor and low status.) he became weak. (Remember Paul has money and religious status as a Pharisee. This would be like Donald Trump eating a bologna sandwich with you and then watching the football game on your very small TV without complaining.) Paul does this so that he might be able to speak to them about Christ. Daily Read 2011-11-11T07:01:30+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_10th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_10th#When:07:01:18Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 35 Job 36 1 Corinthians 7 1 Corinthians 8Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 35-36 Elihu then accuses Job of greed, since he obviously expects to be rewarded for not sinning. (ie He should do right just to do right and not for the reward. He is accusing Job of doing ‘right’ for selfish reasons.) He tells him that his behavior affects other men, and that the fact that God is not listening to Job is proof that Job is ‘wicked.’ Elihu then begins speaking for God. He tells them that he is ‘perfect in knowledge’ because he gets his knowledge from God and he knows that God is just. He tells Job that God blesses the righteous and punishes the wicked. He tells Job to repent and he will be blessed. He tells him that only the godless refuse to repent and that he is obviously being judged as wicked. 1 Cor. 7-8 Basically, God does not care what status you have in life, He can use you where you are at. Though, if you have a disadvantaged status (like a slave) and you can improve your station in life, by all means do so! In the Christian world there will be people of many different situations within the church, and their situation will not affect their ability to serve. This is why circumcision is mentioned, for some are preaching that it is ‘better.’ People who teach that you must be married to serve need to remember that Timothy, Jesus and Paul were not. People who teach that you must be single must remember that almost everyone, including Peter, was married, etc. By including the slaves in this discussion, Paul also emphasizes that people in low positions may also be used mightily by God (think Joseph). With circumcision, we see that people that come to God later in life, with pagan backgrounds, may also serve equally in the church. What you do for God depends more on what God calls you to do, and less on your status in life. Daily Read 2011-11-10T07:01:18+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_9th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_9th#When:07:01:42Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 34 1 Corinthians 4 1 Corinthians 5 1 Corinthians 6Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 34 Elihu then accuses Job of saying that God has denied him justice. (ie Since suffering without cause is not just, Job is therefore saying that God is not just when Job says that he is innocent.) He tells Job that he is being ‘scornful’ and that he must be keeping company with evil men who are telling him that it does not profit a person to follow God. He tells him that God does not make evil happen, and that we only get what we deserve. He tells Job that God sees everything so he might as well repent. He then accuses Job of rebelling against God by saying that he does not deserve this. 1 Cor. 4-6 Paul then tells them that he says this to warn them. Even though there are many of them, there are not many mature enough to be ‘fathers.’ For this reason Paul would like to be a ‘father’ to them. They are to imitate him. He is also sending Timothy to them to help. He is to remind them of how Paul lives (handles life situations). Paul then states that his behavior lines up with what he teaches, so they can learn from this. FYI: Timothy is young. In sending a young guy to a bunch of people whom Paul has just said are old enough to be fathers, but are not, Paul is testing exactly how ‘mature’ they are. The less mature are sure to be offended because such a young man is being sent. Paul then tells them that some of them have become arrogant, as if Paul was never going to come back and check up on them. He says that he will come soon, and that his main concern is not how only how arrogant some people have become, but the power people in the church have allowed the arrogant to have. He then tells them that the kingdom of God is not about talk, but power. (This is the power of the Holy Spirit.) He then implies that they should ‘clean up’ (deal with) the arrogant in the church before he gets there, for he can either come to them gently, in love, or with a whip. (Sounds like a father, doesn’t it?) Daily Read 2011-11-09T07:01:42+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_8th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_8th#When:07:00:59Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 33 1 Corinthians 1 1 Corinthians 2 1 Corinthians 3Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 33 Elihu basically says, ‘How dare you say that God is unjust.’ He tells Job that God speaks through dreams, visions, in people’s ears and through pain. He tells Job that the job of angels is to tell men what is right for them to do. He tells Job about God’s mercy and that God forgives those who repent. He tells Job that the purpose of suffering on earth is to keep people from ‘the pit’ (hell). He tells Job that he wants him to be clear of sin. 1 Corinthians 1-3 Paul explains that only a man’s spirit knows the thoughts of man, so only God’s Spirit knows the thoughts of God. Since we have received God’s Spirit we may understand spiritual truths. He finishes by saying that we have the mind of Christ. FYI: This is one of the proof of the trinity. The Holy Spirit knows the mind of God, like our spirit knows our mind, meaning that the Holy Spirit is a part of God like our spirit is a part of us. The mind of Christ, is what the Holy Spirit gives us, but it is the thoughts of God that it tells us, so the mind of Christ is the same as the mind of God. Daily Read 2011-11-08T07:00:59+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_7th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_7th#When:07:01:19Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 31 Job 32 Galatians 5 Galatians 6Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 31-32 Job now tells them that he has avoided lust, and deceit. He says that he has been a faithful husband, that he has made sure justice was done, that he has helped the widow, the poor and the needy. He tells them that he has not taken advantage of his status, that he does not trust in riches and that he has not engaged in idolatry. He has not rejoiced over the failures of his enemies, he fed his servants and travelers who stayed with them well, and that he has not concealed his sins because he was afraid of what others might think. He asks God to hear him. He tells his friends that he would admit to what he had done if he knew of anything. He tells them that he has paid those who work his land and have not overworked them either. Job’s three friends stop talking because they believe he is ‘righteous in his own eyes.’ But Elihu becomes very angry at Job for trying to justify himself, instead of defending God. He is also mad at Job’s friends for not being able to refute Job. Point to Ponder: Elihu believes that God is right for punishing Job, because he believes that these things cannot be happening without cause. He is mad that the friends are not doing a better job sticking up for God and proving Job wrong. Galatians 5-6 Paul begins by reminding them not to go back to the yoke of slavery, when Christ has set them free. That if they go back to Jewish law and become circumcised, then the are denying what Christ did on the cross, and Christ is of no use to them. If you begin trying to obey even parts of the law as if you ‘have to’ for salvation, then you are bound to following the whole law. (You don’t get to pick and choose.) The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. Paul then explains that if you live by the Spirit, you will not sin as sinful desires are contrary to the Spirit. For this reason if you are led by the Spirit you are not under the law. (The assumption is that if you are Spirit led, you will not be breaking the law. If you are breaking the law, you better check what ‘spirit’ you are truly following!) Daily Read 2011-11-07T07:01:19+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_6th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_6th#When:07:01:25Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 30 Psalm 120 Galatians 3 Galatians 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 30 Job tells them that all his blessings are gone and now he is mocked. (Remember, Job is still with God, but is going through a trial.) God will not answer him and he suffers. Point to Ponder: Do we treat people differently depending on whether they are blessed, or going through a rough time. Many people have said that when life became hard (i.e. Their spouse became ill, they lost their job, their children were in serious trouble etc.) no one came to visit them or even called. Are we ‘fair weather’ friends? When we do call do we make things worse by pointing out blame and/or failings in a person when we do not even know the full situation. I think the hardest thing in life is probably when you are going through a trial and on top of that having to talk to a ‘friend’ who does not have all of the facts but refuses to listen and wants to tell you where you went wrong. Today we call this adding insult to injury, and it is what Job’s friends are currently doing to him. One of the things we need to learn from Job is that we must listen and actually know what is going on before we speak. Job’s friends do listen, but then they assume that they know better and accuse Job of having sins he will not admit to. Psalm 120 God Answers I call on God when I am in distress and He answers me. I ask Him to save me from the people who lie about me and who try to deceive me and others. God will punish them. Too long I have lived with people who hate peace… Galatians 3-4 Paul asks them if they received the Spirit by obeying the law, or by believing in what they heard about Christ. He then asks them if, after beginning with the Spirit, they are now trying to attain their goal (which they have already attained) by human effort. He then asks if God gave them His Spirit and worked miracles because they observed the law, or because they believed what they heard. He then reminds them that Abraham did not have the law. He believed. So those who have faith are the ones who are blessed like Abraham. He also reminds them that anyone who violates even a portion of the law is under the curse and that Jesus took that curse for us by being hung on a tree. (A quote from the Old Testament reminds them that anyone who is hung on a tree is cursed.) It is by faith that we receive the promise of the Spirit. Daily Read 2011-11-06T07:01:25+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_5th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_5th#When:07:01:26Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 28 Job 29 Galatians 1 Galatians 2Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 28-29 Job then longs for the past when he was under God’s protection. He then describes what life is like with God. 1. God watched over him. 2. God guided everything he did. 3. He was in his prime. 4. He was in intimate friendship with God. 5. God blessed his house. 6. His path was drenched with cream. (He had luxuries.) 7. He had his children around him. 8. God blessed him with streams of olive oil. 9. Young and old showed him respect. 10. Nobles and leaders forced themselves to be silent in order to hear Job speak. 11. People who heard him spoke well of him. 12. People praised him because he helped the poor and fatherless. 13. He made widows happy. 14. He did what was righteous. 15. He did what was just. 16. He helped the blind get where they needed to go. 17. He helped the lame. 18. He was father to the needy. 19. He made sure that the foreigner received justice. 20. He broke the ‘fangs’ of the wicked. (ie He did not let them get away with evil.) 21. He saved the victims from wicked schemes. 22. He thought he would die in his own home after a long life. 23. Men listened to him expectantly. 24. After he spoke they had nothing else to add. 25. His words were gentle. 26. People waited for him so they could hear what he had to say. 27. When he smiled at people they felt special and could not believe such a great man had paid attention to them. 28. The sight of his face was precious to people. 29. He chose the way for the people to follow. 30. He sat like a king among his troops. 31. He comforted those who mourned. Galatians 1-2 FYI: Since the gospel Paul preaches perfectly lines up with what the disciples preach, it is confirmation that this message is true. It would be impossible for a Christian hater to all of a sudden fall off a horse and come up with exactly the same message, in minute detail and understanding, as the leaders of the religion he hates. Further, Paul understands the message so well, he is able to rebuke Peter when he strays from what he knows to be true by alienating the Gentiles. Daily Read 2011-11-05T07:01:26+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_4th1 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_4th1#When:07:01:03Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 26 Job 27 Mark 15 Mark 16Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 26-27 Job then asks Bildad (who is not suffering as Job is) when he has helped the powerless or saved a feeble person from anything, or given advice to one without wisdom. (Job is implying that if he is suffering for not being ‘righteous’ then Bildad should be suffering too! By the way, these are all things Christians should be doing, but often aren’t. Ask yourself when was the last time you truly helped someone who had no way to repay or thank you.) Job then tells them that he will not lie and deny his integrity by claiming to be bad. Job then describes the fate of the wicked. 1. Their children die by violence. 2. Their children never have enough to eat. 3. Their children are more likely to die in plagues. 4. Their widows do not mourn when they die. 5. Any wealth he accumulates eventually goes to the righteous. 6. His house is unstable like a moth’s cocoon. 7. He may lie down with the wealthy, but it will not last. 8. His wealth is gone quickly when God does punish him. 9. He is afraid. 10. He derides (speaks badly of) other people and ‘hisses’ at them. (No ‘real’ relationships. Everyone who tries to get close is somehow ‘awful’ and not worth knowing, so they are lonely even when surrounded by people who want to love them.) Mark 15-16 FYI: Mark 16 is interesting because verses 9-20 do not occur in some of the earliest manuscripts. There are two possible reasons for this. One is that a ‘summary’ was added later. There is nothing in verses 9-20 that is not covered elsewhere in scripture, and let’s face it, Mark is short on details, so someone may have wanted to add a conclusion, especially since ending at verse 8 leaves Jesus’ followers afraid, telling no one anything, and does not cover the fact that they overcome their fear, that there are other meetings with the risen Jesus etc. If Mark actually ended here, you can see why someone would think to add a little more to explain things better. A possible reason for cutting verse 9-20 out however is that verse 15-18 are very ‘Pentecostal.’ If your church was not experiencing these things you may not want them placed so bluntly at the end of the book. Here Jesus promises that believers will drive out demons, speak in new tongues, pick up snakes with their hands, drink deadly poison without being effected, and heal the sick. Now believers did do all these things in scripture (though not every believer, all of the time) so they were fulfilled. I believe the final verses are Mark’s. I cannot believe Mark, who spent all of his book telling us Jesus was God, would end it by telling us that the people were afraid and told no one. Further, the final verses are just as short on detail as the rest of his book, and that is a hard style to match. Obviously Mark did not enjoy writing, and was not detail oriented. Anyone who would be picked to ‘add’ to scripture would likely be someone who liked to write and enjoyed pouring through scripture. It would be difficult for this person to truly capture Mark’s style. Yet in 11 verses we are told about Mary Magdalene having demons driven out of her, telling the disciples and them not believing her in a mere 3 verses, then in two verse he covers Jesus appearing to two (unnamed) disciples walking on the road, returning to tell the others and not being believed, then Jesus appears to the eleven, then in one verse he tells them to go preach and don’t be afraid because God will allow you to drive out demons, drink poison, live through snake bite etc. We are then told about Jesus going up to heaven and the disciples going out to preach. That is an awful lot for 11 verses! That is Mark. A true scholar would at least feel the need to give you the names of the two disciples Jesus walked with! By the way: Commenting on Mark was hard! He covered many, many topics in each chapter, and gave you minimal information in each account. I wanted to preserve his ‘briefness’ so I left out a lot of information that we get in the other gospels. For Mark, if the detail did not say ‘Jesus is God’ is wasn’t worth mentioning. (But some of us LIKE the details!) Daily Read 2011-11-04T07:01:03+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_3rd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_3rd#When:07:01:39Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 25 Mark 13 Mark 14Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 25 Bildad then reminds Job that no one is righteous before God. FYI: This is a very short (6 verse) chapter. I could have gone on about how man is a ‘worm’ is a concept found in the messianic prophecy in Psalm 22:6, as well as in references to men who end up in hell, where their ‘worm’ (soul) does not die (Is. 66:24, Mark 9:48), but I didn’t. The point here is that Bildad is using a truth, ‘no one is righteous but God’ in error and it is hurting Job. In this instance Job has done nothing to deserve what he is experiencing and Bildad is making him feel like ‘garbage’ instead of comforting him. Mark 13-14 FYI: The ‘abomination that causes desolation’ was predicted in the Old Testament (Daniel 9:27, 11:31, 12:11) and partially fulfilled by Antiochus Epiphaneus (which means ‘God on Earth’ –he chose the name himself, lovely guy). He conquered Israel and desecrated the Temple by offering a pig on the altar (unclean) and putting an idol in the Temple area. The Macabees kicked him out of Jerusalem, and then God blessed them by allowing the oil that should have only lasted for one day last for eight days while they were making new oil. This is why the Jews celebrate Chanukkah. It is not recorded in the Bible, but it happened in the time between the Old and the New Testament. Antiochus Epiphaneus did not last the 1,290 days predicted in Daniel though, and Jesus indicates that the prophecy will be filled in full at a later time. (By the way- Jesus celebrated Chanukkah. John 10:22. Channukah is also known as the Feast of Dedication, because that is when the Temple was rededicated.) Daily Read 2011-11-03T07:01:39+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_2nd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_2nd#When:07:01:05Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 23 Job 24 Mark 11 Mark 12Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 23-24 Job then tells them that this is unfair, and that if he asked God why, God would not press charges against him because he has done nothing wrong. He tells them that, at the present time, he cannot ‘find’ God (ie God does not seem to be answering him.). He then tells them that God is testing him and that he has passed! He tells them that he does fear God, and because of this he is not overcome by all that has happened. Job then asks why the wicked are not punished consistently. He answers that the end for the wicked is bad and that they will not have eternal life. Mark 11-12 The chief priests, teachers of the Law and the elders then ask Jesus by whose authority do you do these things. Jesus answers them with a question: By whose authority did John the Baptist do what he did? They do not want to answer this because people believed that John the Baptist was a prophet, so if they say John’s authority was from men the people will be mad and if they say that John’s authority was from heaven, then Jesus will ask them why they didn’t listen to John. They instead reply, ‘We don’t know,’ and Jesus tells them that He won’t answer their question either. (Notice that Jesus sets boundaries and doesn’t play foolish games.) Jesus then tells them to watch out for the teachers of the law for these reasons: 1. They like to walk around in the marketplace in flowing robes, being greeted in the marketplace. (i.e. They like to be ‘special’ and receive ‘special’ treatment.) 2. They like to have the most important seats in the synagogue. 3. They like to have the places of honor at banquets. (i.e. These are people who want ‘special’ treatment.) 4. They devour widows’ homes. (Take advantage of the poor and needy. Today this might be people who use emotion to convince the elderly to give all their money. We are supposed to be watching out for the widow, not enforcing ‘laws,’ or creating situations that cause her to become homeless.) FYI: In scripture a true ‘widow’ is someone who has no family to care for her. 5. They make lengthy prayers for show. Daily Read 2011-11-02T07:01:05+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_1st http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/november_1st#When:07:00:59Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Psalm 121 Mark 9 Mark 10Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Psalm 121 Point to Ponder: We see these promises in the Bible, and then we read the book of Job. God was taking care of Job, not allowing anything to happen to him, and then He didn’t, and many very awful things happened to Job. (He lost all his children, his possessions, his health…) Why? Because God allowed Job’s faith to be tested. How is that ‘protection?’ Doesn’t that contradict this psalm? My opinion: Life is short. (The book of Job covers that.) It is more important for you to know that you have true faith that leads to eternal life, then for you to be happy all of the time. God ‘protects’ you by allowing trials that test your faith, showing you where it is weak, and strengthening it so that you may stay faithful. While it does not ever feel like it, this is a blessing. The other reason why Christians see ‘bad times’ is covered in the book of James. We do not ask. God wants us to be in relationship with Him. This involves talking to Him. The book of James also tells us that some of our problem is that when we do ask, we ask with wrong motives. We are selfish, or we doubt that God will give it to us. Have you ever had someone come to you and say, ‘Well I know you won’t do this for me, but I thought I’d ask…’ How motivated are you to do above and beyond for someone with this attitude? Why? Because they have implied that you are not ‘good’ by asking in this way. (Though a few of us overcompensate to prove the person wrong. God is not like this.) Mark 9-10 FYI: The word ‘kingdom’ may also be translated as ‘reign.’ The reign of God, or the kingdom of God, is to come with power. The kingdom of God is a time when God will be in charge. I believe that this was to be how Israel was to function, as a nation with God in charge, but the people would not stay loyal to God long enough for us to get an adequate idea of what that would look like long term. The kingdom, or reign, of God, is therefore something different. I believe that the kingdom of God represents when God is allowed to reign in your life, when we put Him in charge, and accept Him as Lord. (Remember that Lord means Master.) The power He talks about is the Holy Spirit. (Acts 1:8) This generation will be alive to see the Holy Spirit poured out on the day of Pentecost. It is then that the people who are part of the ‘kingdom of God’ will have power from God. Real life: What does it look like to live as if the kingdom of God has come? I don’t know. I am not sure that any of us are capable of living there permanently on this earth. What I do know is how I live. It involves knowing my Bible and trying hard to live it. Praying (though not as much as I know I should). And then there is the ‘weird’ part. The times when I know that I know that I am supposed to do something. This is the Holy Spirit part. It also gives me the strength to do it. It does not mean that everything always goes well. We knew that the three children we adopted were ‘ours,’ but they still had freewill… It means that I knew to pray for my daughter’s broken bone, and it was healed, but that there were many more injuries that were not healed, even though I prayed. When I prayed for my daughter I knew that I knew. That was it. My son had a cast on his ankle for months, and I know he prayed fervently too because it ended his soccer season senior year! Do I know why? No. We are the same people, with the same faith. (Though some will argue about this.) But God has His timing and His reasons… Daily Read 2011-11-01T07:00:59+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_31st http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_31st#When:07:01:39Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 22 Mark 7 Mark 8Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 22 Eliphaz now speaks. He tells Job that man is nothing and that he is a sinner. He then lists Job’s sins. (Remember, these are not actual sins, but things they perceive to be sin in Job’s life.) 1. He demands security for the loans he makes leaving men ‘naked.’ Point to Ponder: Scripturally it is okay to demand security for a loan, as long as it is not for food or basic needs, and the ‘security’ does not cause the man to not have what he needs to work and live. (Prov. 20:16, 27:13, Dt. 24:6, 12-13, Ex. 23:3) We are not, however, to give people loans so that they may pay off their debts. This is merely transferring debt from one person to another. The debtor must deal with the person they originally were in debt to, and not use you to avoid a messy situation. If you want to pay off their debts, (ie ‘redeem’ them) that is fine. But transferring the debt to you is not smart. (Prov. 6:1, 22:26) People today make these mistakes as well. When a man loses much in a deal, if he is not wealthy people often cry ‘unfair’ even though the man knew the risks when he entered into the agreement. Some people falsely believe that the rich should reimburse the person for any losses incurred in a deal if the person is not rich as well. If this were so no one would give the poor a chance to succeed (Who would loan money if they knew they would lose it all, and perhaps more, if the person failed?). With every chance to succeed, there is also a chance of failure. This is life. Eliphaz is trying to twist this to make it Job’s ‘fault.’ 2. He accuses Job of not giving water or food to the weary, hungry, widows and fatherless. Point to Ponder: There will always be poor people. The Bible tells us so. (Dt. 15:11, Mt. 26:11) This is also a mistake that is made today. Since we know that Job is indeed blameless, we know that he fed everyone he knew he could. The fact that there are still poor in the world while he is rich is not his fault. Other people are accountable for feeding the poor as well, and there are some ‘poor’ people that scripture tells us not to feed (2 Thess. 3:10). Eliphaz asks Job why he does not see his sins? He tells Job that his denying that he has sinned is like asking God (sarcastically) ‘What do you know?’ (ie Eliphaz is telling Job that by allowing him to suffer God is saying that he has sinned. This is not the case.) Eliphaz then tells Job to submit to God and God will restore him. Mark 7-8 Jesus tells them that Moses told them to honor their father and mother, yet they give the money meant for their parents to God and tell their parents that there is no money for them. FYI: Children, in this culture, are a parent’s retirement fund. Everything the parent has eventually passes on to the child, especially in an agricultural community where most of the ‘wealth’ is counted in the amount of livestock you own rather than the silver in your pocket. For this reason elderly parents are extremely dependent on their adult children when they are no longer able to care for the ‘farm’ and the children are now in control. These children are denying their parents’ things by saying that all of the extra money has been set aside for God. This is wrong. We do not take money away from the people we are responsible for so that they suffer to give to God in order to make ourselves look good to others. FYI: A gift to God is called ‘Corban’ meaning it is now holy and cannot be used for any other purpose. Point to Ponder: Why would Jesus not want people to know He is the Christ? I believe it is because the people do not have an accurate view of who ‘the Christ’ is and will have false expectations if they know that the Christ is here. First the people must understand who ‘the Christ’ really is. In fact, this confusion leads to Jesus’ crucifixion, as they expect ‘the Christ’ to be a military type leader who will save them from Roman oppression much like the judges in the Old Testament did. Jesus, and then the disciples after the resurrection, have much to teach the people about who ‘the Christ’ is according to scripture, otherwise this term is useless, because their expectations are based on false information. FYI: Many Jews, but not all, expected two Christs. (aka Messiahs- Christ is a Greek term, Messiah is a Jewish term) One Christ was to be a High Priest, and one was to be a King. At this time in history the Jewish people were focused on a ‘christ’ that would fulfill their immediate need and overthrow the Roman government so they could rule themselves again.   Daily Read 2011-10-31T07:01:39+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_30th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_30th#When:07:01:00Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 21 Mark 5 Mark 6Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 21 Job then replies, asking them to listen while he speaks, and then they may mock him. He asks his friends that, if what they say is true, why do some wicked people prosper. (ie It cannot be as ‘fair’ as you make it seem, since the wicked do prosper at times and we know this.) Job then describes a wicked person. 1. They tell God to leave them alone. 2. They have no desire to know God’s ways. 3. They ask who God is that He thinks they should serve him. 4. They ask what they would gain by praying to Him. Job tells his friends that the wicked’s prosperity is not under their control, and this is why he does not do as they do. (ie They are only prosperous because God has mercy, not because what they do is good. True, lasting wealth comes from God.) Job continues to explain that God does not always punish evil. He also explain that good or evil everyone must die, but that the wicked always get their due in this life is nonsense. Mark 5-6 Point to Ponder: I believe that God has given us a measure of control over our lives. (Free will.) Because of this He will only intervene as far as we let Him. Our lack of faith, therefore keeps Him from doing all He would wish to do, because we will not allow it, not because He is not willing. God wants us to come to Him freely, and will typically only do as much as we let Him. He does make exceptions at times though, because, of course, He is God, (so He can do it) and He does have mercy on us… By the Way- In verse 3 they refer to Jesus as ‘Mary’s son.’ This is an insult, indicating that they believe Jesus is illegitimate. A Jewish male is typically referred to as the son of his father. The mother is only mentioned if there is more then one wife, and then only after it is clear that he is the son of his father as well. Point to Ponder: Mary and Joseph made it clear that Joseph was not Jesus’ father. Why would they do this if Joseph was going to marry Mary anyways? This information could get Mary killed, and Jesus kept from ever getting married himself. (There are rules about illegitimate children not marrying anyone who is legitimate.) This would definitely make life harder for them for all of them. It is my belief that Joseph and Mary delayed becoming officially married until after Jesus was born to show people that Jesus was not Joseph’s so that there could be no confusion over who Jesus’ real father was- God. Daily Read 2011-10-30T07:01:00+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_29th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_29th#When:07:01:00Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 20 Mark 3 Mark 4Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 20 Zophar then replies. He tells Job that he hears a rebuke that ‘dishonors’ him. He tells Job that his understanding of the issues is what ‘inspires’ him to reply. He then tells Job, in many, many words, that what is gained through wickedness does not last. (Implying that since Job has lost everything, all he had must have been gotten through wicked schemes.) Mark 3-4 Practical Application: So how do we keep from being the first three soils and become ‘good soil?’ The way I see the soils is that the first person (hard soil) is stubborn and hard-hearted. This attitude, which includes the need to always be right, and an inability to say ‘I am sorry,’ needs to be avoided. The second person (rocky soil, no depth) is one that cannot handle anything bad happening in their lives, and tries to ‘fix it’ whenever trouble arises by giving in, agreeing and/or appeasing whoever comes against them. When someone says that they do not believe, this person fears rejection and softens their language to appear that they are really in agreement with the person, with only some minor differences. This person cares more what other people think, then they do for standing up for what they believe in. In our society this person is praised as a ‘peace-maker’ (giving up their beliefs in order to make someone else feel good) when in reality they are a wimp, unable to say what they truly believe. The third person (thorny soil) allows the ‘cares of the world’ keep him from being fruitful (producing grain). They worry, or care about much in life. They are too busy in life because we need to be in the ‘good’ neighborhood, pay for the ‘good’ schools, have their children in the ‘good’ activities etc that they have no time for what is truly important (relationship with God, real relationships with their children so we can teach then about God etc. God says all through the Bible ‘Do not be afraid.’ Look for it. You will be surprised how many times it is in there. Yet I see many ‘Christians’ fearful of everything. They worry about everything, from the weather, the economy, society going downhill morally etc. While these are things we should work to improve, they should not make us fearful. Instead they should make us bold. As Christians we are the ones who are supposed to set the example and ‘do justice.’ We can’t do that if we are comatose with fear! The last soil is the good soil. It receives the Word and then produces fruit. I see this happening because the people live a joyful blessed life that others notice and they are not afraid to tell people the it is the Lord in their life that makes them so content. These people are also not afraid to ask the Lord questions when they do not understand. (v.10) Daily Read 2011-10-29T07:01:00+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_28th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_28th#When:07:01:20Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 19 Mark 1 Mark 2Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 19 Job asks his friends how long they are going to torment him with their words. He tells them that their ‘caring’ is just a way for them to ‘exalt’ themselves above him. (Make themselves look good.) He tells them that God has done this and by doing this he is abandoned by other people. He asks his friends to have pity on him. Job then tells them that he knows that his ‘redeemer’ (God) lives and that he will one day see him after his ‘skin’ has been destroyed, when he has his new body. Job then tells his friends that if they truly believe that the root of his troubles lie within him then they should fear for themselves. (ie If you apply what you are saying to your life, which is equal or less ‘good’ than Job’s, you should really be afraid of what will happen to you, because, if anything, you are worse than me!) Mark 1-2 Yes, we have read the gospel of Mark already this year… Interesting Fact: Mark, from the perspective of a writing teacher, is actually a somewhat poorly written work. We do not see this in English since the translators clean it up a little, and also tend to lower the complexity of some of the other writings as well so that their translation is of a consistent reading level. Mark, like Matthew and John, also groups events according to the point he is trying to make. For this reason the events are not in chronological order. Mark is also short on details. Many of the things you will remember about events will not be found here. Also, Mark tends to like the word ‘immediately.’ Because he repeats it so often some Bible translators look for synonyms to use such as ‘and then,’ ‘at once,’ etc so there is not so much repetition. Mark also notes that there are often times when it is late in the day, when they are traveling in the middle of the night, when they have not yet had anything to eat, or that they need time to rest, but do not seem to get it. I think what Mark is trying to say is that during Jesus’ ministry something big was always happening, and they were extremely busy! Daily Read 2011-10-28T07:01:20+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_27th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_27th#When:07:01:53Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 18 Psalm 114 Acts 27 Acts 28Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 18 Bildad then tells Job to stop talking and be sensible. He asks Job if he thinks that his friends are stupid. He then goes on to explain the scriptural punishments for being ‘wicked’ implying that Job must be wicked since these are the things he is facing. Point to Ponder: Bildad is correct. The punishments he lists for being wicked are scriptural, and Job is suffering these things. The problem is that Job is not wicked. While the wicked do suffer as Job does when God has had it with them, sometimes good people suffer in this world too, even though they are not wicked. We live in a world under a curse. The reason why good people sometimes suffer, according to scripture are: trials that either ‘test’ you faith, or make it stronger (This is what Job is suffering through. The book of James also talks about this.) or the effects of evil people in the world. One of the problems with freewill is that evil does effect innocent people. Remember, Job’s friends do not have their scripture wrong, they are merely applying it incorrectly. Point to Ponder: So, how do we know the difference between someone who is being punished for their sins, and someone who is innocent and going through something? You have to get to know them. The Bible does not work without relationships. God expects us to do more than just have a casual conversation with people. Too many times I have been fooled in life into thinking that life was ‘unfair’ and an innocent person was suffering needlessly. Only when I became more closely involved did I see how the person was causing much of their own misfortune. It works both ways. Sometimes we assume bad behavior, and sometimes we wrongly assume innocence. In either case, we need to get more information before making assumptions if we are to offer the right type of advice and encouragement. Psalm 114 All Creation Obeys God This psalm begins by telling us that when Israel came out of Egypt Judah became God’s sanctuary and all of Israel God’s dominion. (Where God ruled.) It reminds us that the sea (the Red Sea) and the Jordan River were parted, and the mountains ‘skipped like lambs’ (This may be a reference to the events on Mount Sinai and/or the water from the rocks.) Why did they do this? Because the earth trembles in the presence of the Lord, who turns rock into pools of water and hard rock into springs. Acts 27-28 FYI: If you lose a prisoner in your care in this culture you die. It is better, and expected, that you kill yourself when this occurs. Also, although Paul is ‘innocent’ and has asked for a trial in front of Caesar, it is unlikely that the other prisoners are innocent. Most likely these are the harder, or more severe cases, that the local rulers do not feel comfortable trying themselves. This is not a ‘good’ group of prisoners who are looking at easy sentences for minor crimes, since those would be easily handled by the local authorities. (See Acts 21:38 where Paul is asked if he was the one who led 4,000 terrorists into the desert in Egypt.) These prisoners have either done something ‘big’ or are involved in something political. Either way it would not be good to lose them. In not killing the prisoners and following Paul’s advice we see how God has intervened and given Paul a level of authority over this group that a typical prisoner should not have, and since no prisoners escape, we see that Paul also seems to have divine assistance in dealing with them as well. (Similar to Joseph’s position in jail in the Old Testament.) Daily Read 2011-10-27T07:01:53+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_26th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_26th#When:07:01:55Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 17 Acts 24 Acts 25 Acts 26Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 17 Job then tells them that his spirit is broken. (He is depressed.) He is tired of people mocking him because of his circumstances. He asks God to put up the ‘pledge’ (payment) for his sins. (Here we see the concept that only God can atone for our sins.) He then reminds his friends that if they denounce a friend for ‘reward’ (personal gain, like not wanting to be associated with someone like Job) then the eyes of their children will fail (ie Their children will not have seen good from their parents and therefore not know where to look for wisdom in life, and which examples to follow.) Point to Ponder: One of the hardest things children have to overcome is a parent who has set a bad example through wrong behavior. It is not just a matter of doing right, but of figuring out what ‘right’ is. Job once again longs for death, and tells them that there would be no hope for him if he turns to sin. (He is probably talking about lying, and pretending to agree with his friends.) Acts 24-26 Five days later the high priest, Ananias, and the elders from Jerusalem arrive with their lawyer. They accuse Paul of stirring up riots, and trying to desecrate the Temple. (Remember Paul was accused of bringing a Gentile into the Temple area.) FYI: Christians, in this passage, are called the Nazarene Sect and The Way. The Way was what the early Christians chose to call themselves. The Nazarene Sect was a term used by the Romans and indicated that the Christians were a sect of Judaism like the Pharisees and Sadducees. (Jesus grew up in Nazareth.) This was important since you could not be a religion without Roman approval. Judaism was approved. If Christianity claimed to be completely separate from Judaism, they would have to apply to the government for recognition or face charges. Since the early believers did consider themselves of Jewish origin, this was not a problem, but it did legally put them under the authority of Jewish Law and the Jewish rulers of the time. Early Christians however, while considering themselves a part of Judaism, do not think of themselves as a ‘sect.’ The term ‘sect’ implies that you believe in minor variations within the law. The Christians however believe that the Messiah has come and that all of Judaism should acknowledge that fact and radically change since Christ is the fulfillment of all of the Jewish law. (You are seeing why the Jews were so upset….?) Paul states that he is innocent of all the charges except that he did accuse them of persecuting him for the resurrection of the dead in front of the Sanhedrin. (This was an inflammatory statement since the Sadducees in the Sanhedrin do not believe in the resurrection of the dead, while the Pharisees of the Sanhedrin do, and it is a very hotly debated subject. What Paul is pointing out to Felix however is that he did nothing wrong until he was already in front of them, and that the Jewish ruling body itself has different beliefs and starts its own riots.) Daily Read 2011-10-26T07:01:55+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_25th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_25th#When:07:01:26Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 16 Acts 21 Acts 22 Acts 23Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 16 Job tells his friends that they are ‘miserable comforters’ with all of their long-winded speeches. He tells them that, if their situations were reversed, his words would comfort and encourage them. He tells his friends that he is worn out and tired of being mocked. He mourns and pleads with God and his prayers are pure. He tells them that the one who intercedes (prays for) him is his true friend. He finishes by reminding them that only a few years are left before he is dead. The ‘take home’ point here is: a true friend prays with you when you are down. There are times when a friend is in obvious sin, and those are the times we are to help them see what they are doing to destroy their lives, but when it is not obvious, shut-up and pray! Acts 21-23 Paul and his friends then ‘tear themselves away’ from the believers in Ephesus and set sail. They land in Tyre to unload cargo and stay with believers there for seven days. When it is time to go everyone, women and children too, go to the beach to pray. (Did you notice that the men are praying with the women and children! And that women were praying in the upper room along with the men at Pentecost! This is new. During this time the Temple, and the synagogues, had separate places for men and women. And the children stayed with the women. They did not pray together, yet even before the Holy Spirit descended we see the early church praying as a whole, and, as seen here, even including the kids!) They then stop at Ptolemais and stay with believers for the night. Then move on to Caesarea where they stay at Philip’s house. Philip was one of the seven appointed to oversee the widows early on. He is an evangelist, and he has four virgin (i.e. unmarried) daughters who prophesy. An unmarried woman is about the lowest thing you can be in this society, yet God has made them prophets. Daily Read 2011-10-25T07:01:26+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_24th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_24th#When:07:01:46Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 15 Acts 19 Acts 20Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 15 Job’s friend, Eliphaz now speaks. He calls Job’s words ‘useless.’ He tells him that he is undermining the piety of God (making God less holy) by calling himself ‘blameless.’ He tells Job that his own words condemn him. (ie He is calling Job’s complaining a sin.) He also asks Job if he knows things about God that they do not. (ie Do you think you are so smart? Better than us? Know so much more than we do?) He tells Job that God’s comfort should be enough for him. (ie Stop complaining.) He tells Job that no one is pure, and that only the wicked suffer because they rebel against God. (Again, remember that Job’s friends are misapplying scripture.) Acts 19-20 FYI: Did you notice that he early church met on Sundays, not Saturdays (the traditional Jewish Sabbath)(v.7). There is some speculation about why this is. The prominent ‘facts’ that likely led to this decision are: Many believers were Jews and continued to go to the synagogue and teach that Jesus was the Messiah by using the Old Testament scripture. These Jewish believers did not believe they had left Judaism. Instead they saw Jesus as the fulfillment of scripture and wanted to show other Jews this as well. This left little time for them to gather as Christians, and since it also excluded the Gentile believers, they gathered as Christians on another day. Since Jesus was resurrected to heaven on a Sunday, this is when they chose to worship. This gave the Jewish believers a two-day weekend. It also marked them as Christians, because people noticed that they were not working, but gathering together, on Sunday as well. When persecution comes to the Christians their worship on a Sunday, will make them easier to recognize. From the beginning of the early church moving the Sabbath was not a problem. This is most likely because the Jews saw the Ten Commandments and the other laws given by Moses as a covenant between God and Israel and only saw the laws handed down to Noah after the flood (which includes ‘Thou shall not kill” etc) as pertaining to the Gentiles. Since the Jewish believers continued to meet in the synagogue and keep the Sabbath, they were not breaking any commandments, and since they did not feel that the Gentiles were bound by this law, it was not a problem. The Holy Spirit obviously sanctioned this change, and thus Sunday is the day of worship for the Christian church today. (Jewish days begin at sundown the night before, so ‘technically’ our Saturday evening services occur on Sunday as well. This is why many churches allow this option, rather than Sunday evening services.) Daily Read 2011-10-24T07:01:46+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_23rd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_23rd#When:07:01:25Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 13 Job 14 Acts 17 Acts 18Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 13-14 Job then asks his friends what they would receive from God if God examined their lives. He tells them that, although God has ‘slain’ him, he still puts his hope in God. He will defend himself to God and trust that this will all turn around and that he will be delivered. He tells his friends that he knows that he will be vindicated. Job now prays to God to stop the terror he is facing and to show him his sins. He asks God why this is happening and says that he is God’s slave. Job again reminds us that life is short. He tells us that trees may regow, but our death is final. Job wishes for death, but says that he awaits the time when God will ‘renew’ him. He tells us that God longs for His creation and that He does not count man’s sins, but instead covers them. Job then explains that earthly bodies die. Acts 17-18 Paul and Silas are sent away to Berea at night. Here the Bereans were praised because they went to the Old Testament scriptures and looked up everything Paul and Silas told them for themselves. Practical Application: God wants us to check His word, and not just believe people blindly. There are answers, and proofs, in scripture. It is not just ‘faith.’ You must have a reason for your faith! In Athens Paul finds that the city is full of idols. Paul looks around for awhile, then sees an altar to an unknown god. He uses this to begin to preach about Jesus. A few are saved, and the rest tell Paul they wish to hear more of this later. FYI: It was not uncommon for an area to have many gods. Typically one god was the ‘main’ god, but when things went wrong it was assumed that there was a god in the area that they had ignored. They then tried to figure out which god it was an offer appropriately to it. If an area went through tough times they could accumulate many, many gods. An altar to the ‘unknown god’ was likely an attempt to cover any ‘gods’ they might have missed. Daily Read 2011-10-23T07:01:25+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_22nd http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_22nd#When:07:01:01Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 11 Job 12 Acts 15 Acts 16Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 11-12 Point to Ponder: These are good friends, yet they are being cruel by telling Job how ‘bad’ he must be. Why? My opinion: Too often we like to be in complete control of our lives, or at least believe that we are. When bad things happen to people we try to find reasons for it so that we can believe that this could never happen to us. The truth is that this world is still suffering under the curse because of sin, and that sometimes bad things are going to happen even when we do nothing wrong. This makes some people, especially very accomplished people, very insecure. People tend to like to be in control and it is hard for them to admit that everything they have could be gone in a day. Acts 15-16 Just after the whole ‘Gentiles do not have to be circumcised’ decision Paul meets Timothy. He has a Jewish mother and a Greek father and is not circumcised. Timothy and his mother are believers. In order to protect Timothy from the Jews Paul has him circumcised. In Jewish theology there is much talk about what to do if one rule of scripture is in conflict with another rule of scripture. I believe that this is the situation here. Timothy would be in added danger since he is of Jewish blood but not circumcised. Paul therefore errs on the side of caution to potentially save his life. So although he did not need to be circumcised to be saved, it was helpful in avoiding a potentially life-threatening situation among the Jews. Timothy was likely a teen at this time. He travels with Paul and they tell the believers the rules for Gentiles that were established in Jerusalem. Daily Read 2011-10-22T07:01:01+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_21st http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_21st#When:07:01:38Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 9 Job 10 Acts 13 Acts 14Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 9-10 Job replies by telling Bildad that true righteousness is impossible for any man to achieve. (Another proof that Jesus is God. No man could be sinless.) FYI: Notice the similarities between God and Jesus. The Pharisees and other experts on the law could not dispute with Jesus and win. When Jesus died there was and earthquake and the sun was dark in the middle of the day. Jesus walked on water and performed many miracles. Acts 13-14 In Pisidian Antioch we see a little bit about how a Jewish synagogue works. At a point in the service those in charge ask members of the congregation to speak. FYI: This is why there is a bar mitzvah. During this ceremony a Jewish boy takes his first turn publically reading the Word and explaining the passage to the congregation. Paul stands up and goes through Jewish history. He then refers to the psalms David wrote and explains that they are about Jesus. Again he emphasizes that Jesus’ body did not see decay as prophesied. He also warns them that the prophets said that there would be scoffers who perish, and won’t believe. Paul is invited to come back next week and speak about this again. FYI: The early church was based on the synagogue model. Typically there were 3 ‘pillars,’or elders, who were the head of the church. Each would take a turn being the ‘Nasi,’ or ‘angel,’ of the church. (Sometimes translated as the ‘president’ of the church.) This person would stand by the person explaining the reading and would make sure that all that was taught lined up with scripture. Usually seven people would be picked to share a message. Daily Read 2011-10-21T07:01:38+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_20th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_20th#When:07:01:17Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 6 Job 7 Job 8 Acts 12Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 6-8 Job tells them that a despairing man, such as him, should have the devotion of his friends, and not the intermittent loyalty they are showing. Point to Ponder: Job is saying that friendship needs to be a constant thing or else it is no good. People who are great friends one week and then mad at you the next and then great friends again are not true friends. They are a slow road to insanity and focusing on all of their ‘drama’ will only distract you from more important things in life, like sleep. Also, by giving them attention you are encouraging their behavior because they are receiving the attention they desire. It hurts them too as they never learn to build true, lasting relationships. Job now explains to his friends that they have been of no help to him. Why? Because their conversation is not out of concern for him, but their ‘fault-finding’ is motivated because they are afraid of the dreadful things they have seen Job go through. He tells them that he would listen to them if they were speaking honestly, but their arguments are worthless. He asks them to stop, and tells them that he is not trying to be mean. Point to Ponder: Here Job is pointing out that his friends are trying to find fault with him without cause because they are afraid that these things might befall them. They are more comfortable believing that Job sinned and therefore they are ‘safe’ since they do not do these things, then they are with admitting that sometimes life is unfair. FYI: There is a joke about Bildad the Shuhite. It is a groaner, but here it is: Who is the shortest man in the Bible? Bildad- he was only ‘shoe height.’ Acts 12 Herod is also having trouble with the people of Tyre and Sidon. In an effort to appease Herod while he is visiting the people worship him as god. Herod accepts the worship, instead of directing it to God. This upsets God. Herod is eaten by worms from the inside and dies. FYI: This is also not uncommon. It was believed at this time that the rulers were chosen by the gods and that a god would ‘inhabit’ the ruler when he came to power. When he died, the ruler would join the gods, becoming fully ‘god’ himself. There is some similarity here to the devil’s tempt in the Garden of Eden that eating the fruit would make them like gods themselves. Just a Thought: God judges Herod and condemns him based on the fact that he did not turn the worship from himself to God. Apparently in hearing the believer’s testimonies Herod has been given enough information that he should know to do this. Herod is not a believer, but is apparently being judged based on what he should have learned. FYI: Jospehus records Herod’s death. Apparently he entered the amphitheater where he was to speak in a silver garment designed to catch the sun and make him ‘shine,’ when they began to worship him as a god. King Herod may have designed the situation to cause this to happen. Daily Read 2011-10-20T07:01:17+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/trunk_or_treat_2011 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/trunk_or_treat_2011#When:21:07:33Z Come enjoy a unique way to trick-or-treat! Walk down Trunk or Treat Street picking up candy from each of the 150 decorated cars you can stop at! Lots of fun with free candy, a spooky maze, photo booth and snack bar. Location Copper Pointe Church Parking Lot | 10500 Copper Ave NE Times 6:00 to 8:00 PM Events 2011-10-19T21:07:33+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_19th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_19th#When:07:01:01Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 5 Psalm 108 Acts 10 Acts 11Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 5 Eliphaz advises Job to appeal to God and to not despise God’s discipline by saying that he does not deserve it. He tells Job that if he repents God will be faithful to heal him. Only then will Job’s possessions and children be secure. He tells Job that they have discussed God’s laws many times before and now Job needs to apply God’s teachings to himself. (Remember, this advice would be great, IF Job had sinned and deserved his punishment. Job was going through a trial, and had not sinned, so this conversation was just hurting Job.) Psalm 108 Point to Ponder: Here we see that God is a God who punishes evil and saves the faithful who are oppressed and helpless when they call on Him. It is not wrong to ask for justice from God. Living a life that is depressed and hurting does not make following God look attractive. It is okay to ask God to vindicate you (prove you are right, blameless etc.) and justly punish those who hurt you. Godly punishments lead to repentance and a life with God. Acts 10-11 Peter understands that his vision meant more than just being able to eat unclean meat. For years the Pharisees had stretched the Jewish food laws into teachings that prohibited Jews from even entering a Gentile home. Now Peter understands that he is to include the Gentiles in his ministry as well. (He will forget this later, and Paul will yell at him, but for now he understands. Gal. 2:11-15) Cornelius then tells Peter about his vision, and Peter tells Cornelius and his friends about Jesus. They believe and are filled with the Holy Spirit. (As evidenced by speaking in tongues.) There was no laying of hands here, as the Jewish believers were amazed that the Holy Spirit was being poured out onto Gentiles. Peter correctly says that if they have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, then there cannot be any reason to not baptize them. Peter then stays with them for a few days, which is a big deal, for before this Peter believed it was forbidden by God to set foot in a Gentile home. Now he is eating and sleeping there, and all of his Jewish buddies who did not get the message from God will know about it. Not only is Peter overcoming his own issues, but he will have to stand up to the others and convince them that associating closely with the Gentiles is okay as well. Daily Read 2011-10-19T07:01:01+00:00 http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_18th http://www.copperpointechurch.com/happenings/october_18th#When:07:01:17Z Read on YouVersion.com View Today’s Reading Listen on Bible.is Job 3 Job 4 Acts 8 Acts 9Stay AccountableAfter each reading, post to our facebook page or twitter what the reading meant to you that day. We want everyone to stay accountable so post it everywhere you can. Have Questions?If you have any questions about what you read, our friend Judy Barrett will be answering questions and giving insight on the reading each day. Click here to ask a question. Judy’s Insight Job 3-4 Job’s friend, Eliphaz now speaks. He is from Teman, a city near the Dead Sea that is known for its wise people. Eliphaz misapplies scripture and reminds Job that evil leads to trouble. He tells Job that no mortal is as righteous as God therefore we all deserve to be punished. FYI: The book of Job is clear. Job does not deserve to be punished but instead is being tested. He has done nothing to deserve this. While sin does indeed lead to hardship, all hardship is not the result of sin. Testing proves our faith. It is good, because it allows us to know whether, or not, our faith is true before it is too late. Acts 8-9 Now Philip is told by an angel to walk down a desert road. On this road he is told by the angel to go up to a chariot and stay near it. He then meets an Ethiopian eunuch, who is an officer to Candace, the queen of Ethiopia. He is a Jew and is reading the book of Isaiah, but does not understand it. The passages are prophecy about Jesus. Philip explain the passage to him, and the eunuch asks why he should not be baptized. So they find some water and the eunuch is baptized. Philip is then taken away, and finds himself in Azotus, where he begins preaching as well, making his way towards Caesarea. Isaiah Explained: In this short passage given in Acts Jesus is the sheep. He did not protest when arrested, He was humiliated and deprived of justice, then killed. This passage also lets us know that Jesus did not have children before He died. (Is. 53:7-8) The rest of chapter 53 tells us that Jesus: 1. Was born as a baby and grew up, tender, like everyone else does. 2. Was average looking, with no particular beauty or majesty or any other feature to make people desire Him over others. 3. He was despised and rejected by men. 4. He suffered. 5. He was despised, not esteemed. 6. Why? To take on Himself our infirmities and sorrows. 7. People considered Him stricken by God. (Remember, He died on a cross accused of blaspheme. This is the punishment for someone who is clearly not with God, but against Him.) 8. He was pierced. Why? For our sins. 9. He was crushed. Why? For our failings. In order to bring us peace. 10. He was wounded. Why? So that we are healed. 11. God laid all the sin of the world on Him. 12. Even though He was oppressed and afflicted He did not open His mouth. (Complain about it being unfair. Protest.) 13. He had no descendents. 14. He was assigned to be buried with the wicked, but was buried with the rich. 15. He had done no violence nor had He deceived anyone. 16. It was God’s will to do this. He was a guilt offering for the people. 17. He will see life again. 18. By knowledge of Him many will be justified. (Have their sins made as if they never happened. Justification is when you go to a judge and he dismissed the case even though you did it.) FYI: At some point before Christ it is believed that part of the tribe of Dan settled in Ethiopia. Even today there are black Jews from Ethiopia who claim to be offspring of this tribe. The eunuch is likely a part of this tribe. FYI: The eunuch did return to Ethiopia and preach. There is currently a church in Ethiopia that believes they are the oldest official ‘church’ as a result of this ministry. Daily Read 2011-10-18T07:01:17+00:00