Sally McGregor, missionary, pastor, educator and wife of Don McGregor, went home to be with Jesus on Wednesday, September 26 at 10:30 p.m. in Simi Valley, Calif.
The McGregor's have had a profound impact on my closest mentors and I have been fortunate to have travelled with them occasionally spent time with them over the past fifteen years. Their impact on Foursquare Philippines is profound and served to help build the foundation of the UCPP which I help lead. This video tribute tells their story and would be of interest to anyone with a heart for missions and ministry.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Introduction to the Wisdom Literature
These are my complete notes from the Eastside School of the Bible on September 26, 2007
Please feel free to post your questions and I will do my best to post answers as well.
Character in Crisis
Unlocking the Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament
Intro: A crisis of character…
Corporate leaders, politicians, celebrities, church leaders, families, even ourselves.
1. A Call to Character Development: Introduction to the Wisdom Literature
2. Practical Wisdom in a Foolish World (Proverbs)
3. Wisdom through Passionate Worship (Psalms)
4. Wisdom in Suffering and Injustice (Job)
5. Celebrating Life and Love (Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon)
This week: A Call to Character Development: Introduction to the Wisdom Literature
The Bible expresses all the emotions of the life of faith, and it deals with many areas of experience that might seem mundane and unspiritual. This is nowhere more true than in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. The Psalms express every emotion the believer encounters in life, be it praise and love for God, anger at those who practice violence and deceit, personal grief and confusion, or appreciation for God’s truth. Proverbs not only examines moral issues, but it also helps us deal with the ordinary matters of life, such as indebtedness, peer pressure and work habits. Song of Songs celebrates the joy of love between a man and a woman. Job and Ecclesiastes make us face our most profound questions and thereby give us to a more genuine faith in God. In sum, all these books deal with real life.
Job 28:1-6, 12-15, 17, 20-28
Proverbs 8:1-11, 35-36
A quest for wisdom.
Defining Wisdom:
Basic thought that one can master life through the power of reason.
Also, there is the belief that the accumulated knowledge of experience and observation can be taught to the succeeding generations. Wisdom literature is therefore often written to help one steer their way through life.
Wisdom: Strong's number 2451/2454: (f): hokma, hakam: to be wise, wisdom, wise(man): Same root Hebrew word. 312X used in the OT, 3/5 of which are found in Job, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. Originally it denoted a technical skill or aptitude, but also came to refer to knowledge and then more practically knowledge for living.
To be prudent, sensible. Applied wisdom results in disciplined, proper and just behavior. It taps the life experience of others for a blessed life. It will help one through life by granting one the favor a good name before man and God.
Practical principles of right and wrong based on the revealed will of God.
Knowledge – information stored in our minds
Wisdom: Knowledge applied
The books of the Bible were written during a time when this type of literature was common. You can find similar motifs and features in Egyptian, Canaanite and Mesopotamian literature. In those writings similar discussions took place regarding the human experience, character development, practical advise, suffering and death, etc.
Furthermore, the wise man, or the sage, was an important figure – an official position in Israelite society within the early days of the monarchy. He is sited, along with the priest and the prophet, as a key source of authoritative guidance for the community of God (see Jer. 18:18, Ez 7:26). A professional circle that were a part of the royal advisory team.
OT wisdom is distinct from other ancient views of wisdom, although the literary format is often similar. The distinction of Biblical wisdom has to do with the consistent teaching of a personal God who is holy and just and who expects those who know Him to exhibit His character in the many practical aspects of life. The source of all wisdom is a personal God who is holy, righteous and just. God is the giver of wisdom – It is not found in our speculation, but comes from Him.
Wisdom is one of His attributes, expressed against the backdrop of His omnipotence and omniscience.
Three ways of presenting wisdom (genres):
1. One is practical (didactic) wisdom: wise sayings, proverbs advocating habits, skills and virtues.
2. Philosophical, speculative, or pessimistic wisdom, such as those found in Ecclesiastes and Job.
3. Poetic
It is important to be able to identify the various types of literature and literary devises used in the Wisdom Literature.
Literary devices:
Parallelism: Where one line of poetry is followed by a second that in some way reiterates or reinforces the first.
Synonymous parallelism (Pr. 19:5, Ps 114:8, Pr. 24:2)
Antithetic parallelism. Reinforces the first thought by stating it again from a negative perspective. Or using opposites (Ps 10:16, Pr. 15:1, 37:16)
Synthetic parallelism. The second line reinforces the idea expressed by adding a reason or explanation (Pr. 22:6, 14:7, 37:4)
Chiasm: The second line reinforces the first by reversing the sequence: Pr. 2:1-6…ABBA, rhyme (Word order)
Numeric Proverbs: Pr 6:16-19
Acrostic Poems: Ps 112, 119 (the Bible’s largest acrostic with eight verses for each Hebrew letter, with each unit of eight verses each beginning with same letter)) (see slide of Ps 112)
Rhetorical Devices: rhyme, alliteration, puns, simile, sarcastic humor (Pr 11:22), paradox, personification, contrasting images, etc.
Psalm 112:1-3
Aleph Ah, the happiness of the one who fears the Lord,
Beth because of his commandments he delights exceedingly!
Gimel Great on the earth will be his children
Daleth Descendants of the upright will be blessed
Heh Honor and riches are in his house;
Waw without end his righteousness endures
Types of Literature
Poetry
Songs
Apocalyptic Literature
Proverbs
Laments
Narrative
A key question to ask yourself as you encounter different literary devises is, “Why is God saying what He is saying, the way He is saying it?” There is a reason God is making His point in that way. What are some of the reasons God would inspire this kind of writing? (Memorization, etc.)
The Practice of Wisdom
There is a promise for those who would gain wisdom: Proverbs 8:32-36 gives us this warning: “Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death.”
The one who hears will be industrious, will know how to relate to others, know how to talk, know God’s will, and they will have a LIFE blessed with God’s approval and His blessing.
This is the way of wisdom. It is a way that is not so much about knowledge and intellect as it is behavior and character!
The antithesis of the wise man in wisdom literature is the fool – the naïve youth who is easily deceived and minimizes the value of wisdom and instruction.
The Fear of the Lord
Wisdom and the knowledge of God were inseparable. Fearing the Lord goes hand in hand with wisdom (Job 28:28, Proverbs 1:7, Ecclesiastes 12:13). What does it mean to fear the Lord? Discuss!
Wisdom will lead a person to have a healthy fear, (reverence, awe and respect) for the Lord (all aspects of His person – both His character and His word).
Authorship: 3 of the 5 Wisdom books were written by Solomon.
For his journey of wisdom see 1 Kings 3:5-15, 1 Kings 4:29-34, Ecclesiastes 12:12
Book: Proverbs (Practical Wisdom in a Foolish World)
Author: Solomon, Agur, Lemuel. “Wise Men”
Theme: The fear of the Lord, life,
Key Verses: 1:7, 8:35
Book: Psalms (Greek – defn song, Hebrew title, Tehillim, means sons of praise)
Author: Many authors, David, Asaph, others.
Theme: Worship (Hallelujah)
Key Verse: Psalm 106:1
Book: Job
Author: Job
Theme: Why serve God? Should character/virtue depend on a universe that operates on the basis of reward and punishment?
Key Verse: Job 21:15
Book: Ecclesiastes
Author: Solomon
Theme: A realistic look at life’s limitations.
Key Verse: 12:13
Book: Song of Solomon
Author: Solomon
Theme: A celebration of love
Key Verse: 8:6-7
Full gamut of human emotions expressed…
Passionate love of Song of Solomon
The unchecked rage of the Psalmist
The sorrow and despair of both Job and the writer of Ecclesiastes…
Questions are thrown to face of God without fear…
God provides answers…
God promises blessing to the one who seeks Him…again and again…
God invites us to gain Wisdom – it is available, it is accessible, and the keys of wisdom for practical living, are found in these books.
In order to get the most out of this study, I invite you to “read ahead” each week. You don’t have to complete the books that we will be going through, but at least get started.
Next week we will be working through the book of Proverbs. As you read through Proverbs try to make note of the recurring themes. What parts of life are being addressed?
Notes on the School of the Bible website (eastsidechurch.org) and on my blog at mattmessner.com (questions)
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
How does this relate to daily life? In what areas do you need wisdom today?
(Conclude with small group discussion and prayer)
Please feel free to post your questions and I will do my best to post answers as well.
Character in Crisis
Unlocking the Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament
Intro: A crisis of character…
Corporate leaders, politicians, celebrities, church leaders, families, even ourselves.
1. A Call to Character Development: Introduction to the Wisdom Literature
2. Practical Wisdom in a Foolish World (Proverbs)
3. Wisdom through Passionate Worship (Psalms)
4. Wisdom in Suffering and Injustice (Job)
5. Celebrating Life and Love (Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon)
This week: A Call to Character Development: Introduction to the Wisdom Literature
The Bible expresses all the emotions of the life of faith, and it deals with many areas of experience that might seem mundane and unspiritual. This is nowhere more true than in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. The Psalms express every emotion the believer encounters in life, be it praise and love for God, anger at those who practice violence and deceit, personal grief and confusion, or appreciation for God’s truth. Proverbs not only examines moral issues, but it also helps us deal with the ordinary matters of life, such as indebtedness, peer pressure and work habits. Song of Songs celebrates the joy of love between a man and a woman. Job and Ecclesiastes make us face our most profound questions and thereby give us to a more genuine faith in God. In sum, all these books deal with real life.
Job 28:1-6, 12-15, 17, 20-28
Proverbs 8:1-11, 35-36
A quest for wisdom.
Defining Wisdom:
Basic thought that one can master life through the power of reason.
Also, there is the belief that the accumulated knowledge of experience and observation can be taught to the succeeding generations. Wisdom literature is therefore often written to help one steer their way through life.
Wisdom: Strong's number 2451/2454: (f): hokma, hakam: to be wise, wisdom, wise(man): Same root Hebrew word. 312X used in the OT, 3/5 of which are found in Job, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. Originally it denoted a technical skill or aptitude, but also came to refer to knowledge and then more practically knowledge for living.
To be prudent, sensible. Applied wisdom results in disciplined, proper and just behavior. It taps the life experience of others for a blessed life. It will help one through life by granting one the favor a good name before man and God.
Practical principles of right and wrong based on the revealed will of God.
Knowledge – information stored in our minds
Wisdom: Knowledge applied
The books of the Bible were written during a time when this type of literature was common. You can find similar motifs and features in Egyptian, Canaanite and Mesopotamian literature. In those writings similar discussions took place regarding the human experience, character development, practical advise, suffering and death, etc.
Furthermore, the wise man, or the sage, was an important figure – an official position in Israelite society within the early days of the monarchy. He is sited, along with the priest and the prophet, as a key source of authoritative guidance for the community of God (see Jer. 18:18, Ez 7:26). A professional circle that were a part of the royal advisory team.
OT wisdom is distinct from other ancient views of wisdom, although the literary format is often similar. The distinction of Biblical wisdom has to do with the consistent teaching of a personal God who is holy and just and who expects those who know Him to exhibit His character in the many practical aspects of life. The source of all wisdom is a personal God who is holy, righteous and just. God is the giver of wisdom – It is not found in our speculation, but comes from Him.
Wisdom is one of His attributes, expressed against the backdrop of His omnipotence and omniscience.
Three ways of presenting wisdom (genres):
1. One is practical (didactic) wisdom: wise sayings, proverbs advocating habits, skills and virtues.
2. Philosophical, speculative, or pessimistic wisdom, such as those found in Ecclesiastes and Job.
3. Poetic
It is important to be able to identify the various types of literature and literary devises used in the Wisdom Literature.
Literary devices:
Parallelism: Where one line of poetry is followed by a second that in some way reiterates or reinforces the first.
Synonymous parallelism (Pr. 19:5, Ps 114:8, Pr. 24:2)
Antithetic parallelism. Reinforces the first thought by stating it again from a negative perspective. Or using opposites (Ps 10:16, Pr. 15:1, 37:16)
Synthetic parallelism. The second line reinforces the idea expressed by adding a reason or explanation (Pr. 22:6, 14:7, 37:4)
Chiasm: The second line reinforces the first by reversing the sequence: Pr. 2:1-6…ABBA, rhyme (Word order)
Numeric Proverbs: Pr 6:16-19
Acrostic Poems: Ps 112, 119 (the Bible’s largest acrostic with eight verses for each Hebrew letter, with each unit of eight verses each beginning with same letter)) (see slide of Ps 112)
Rhetorical Devices: rhyme, alliteration, puns, simile, sarcastic humor (Pr 11:22), paradox, personification, contrasting images, etc.
Psalm 112:1-3
Aleph Ah, the happiness of the one who fears the Lord,
Beth because of his commandments he delights exceedingly!
Gimel Great on the earth will be his children
Daleth Descendants of the upright will be blessed
Heh Honor and riches are in his house;
Waw without end his righteousness endures
Types of Literature
Poetry
Songs
Apocalyptic Literature
Proverbs
Laments
Narrative
A key question to ask yourself as you encounter different literary devises is, “Why is God saying what He is saying, the way He is saying it?” There is a reason God is making His point in that way. What are some of the reasons God would inspire this kind of writing? (Memorization, etc.)
The Practice of Wisdom
There is a promise for those who would gain wisdom: Proverbs 8:32-36 gives us this warning: “Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death.”
The one who hears will be industrious, will know how to relate to others, know how to talk, know God’s will, and they will have a LIFE blessed with God’s approval and His blessing.
This is the way of wisdom. It is a way that is not so much about knowledge and intellect as it is behavior and character!
The antithesis of the wise man in wisdom literature is the fool – the naïve youth who is easily deceived and minimizes the value of wisdom and instruction.
The Fear of the Lord
Wisdom and the knowledge of God were inseparable. Fearing the Lord goes hand in hand with wisdom (Job 28:28, Proverbs 1:7, Ecclesiastes 12:13). What does it mean to fear the Lord? Discuss!
Wisdom will lead a person to have a healthy fear, (reverence, awe and respect) for the Lord (all aspects of His person – both His character and His word).
Authorship: 3 of the 5 Wisdom books were written by Solomon.
For his journey of wisdom see 1 Kings 3:5-15, 1 Kings 4:29-34, Ecclesiastes 12:12
Book: Proverbs (Practical Wisdom in a Foolish World)
Author: Solomon, Agur, Lemuel. “Wise Men”
Theme: The fear of the Lord, life,
Key Verses: 1:7, 8:35
Book: Psalms (Greek – defn song, Hebrew title, Tehillim, means sons of praise)
Author: Many authors, David, Asaph, others.
Theme: Worship (Hallelujah)
Key Verse: Psalm 106:1
Book: Job
Author: Job
Theme: Why serve God? Should character/virtue depend on a universe that operates on the basis of reward and punishment?
Key Verse: Job 21:15
Book: Ecclesiastes
Author: Solomon
Theme: A realistic look at life’s limitations.
Key Verse: 12:13
Book: Song of Solomon
Author: Solomon
Theme: A celebration of love
Key Verse: 8:6-7
Full gamut of human emotions expressed…
Passionate love of Song of Solomon
The unchecked rage of the Psalmist
The sorrow and despair of both Job and the writer of Ecclesiastes…
Questions are thrown to face of God without fear…
God provides answers…
God promises blessing to the one who seeks Him…again and again…
God invites us to gain Wisdom – it is available, it is accessible, and the keys of wisdom for practical living, are found in these books.
In order to get the most out of this study, I invite you to “read ahead” each week. You don’t have to complete the books that we will be going through, but at least get started.
Next week we will be working through the book of Proverbs. As you read through Proverbs try to make note of the recurring themes. What parts of life are being addressed?
Notes on the School of the Bible website (eastsidechurch.org) and on my blog at mattmessner.com (questions)
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
How does this relate to daily life? In what areas do you need wisdom today?
(Conclude with small group discussion and prayer)
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Three Fingers Mountain
On Sunday afternoon Bob Horn and I set out for the lookout of Three Fingers Mountain. It was my 5th time up the mountain. I knew that we would be racing time in order to make it to the summit before dark. For now I will mostly share photos. The complete photo set is on Flickr. You can click HERE to view them.
First, we saw a black bear right next to the trail as we approached Goat Flats. He ran away from us and partially up a nearby tree.
We made good time considering we left the trail head at 2:30 p.m., arrived at Goat Flats at 5 p.m., and made it to the lookout at 7:15 p.m. (in time for a great sunset).
We saw several mountain goats, the sunset and sunrise were magnificent, we needed ice axes but not crampons, the night was cold (below freezing in the lookout), but overall it was awesome!
First, we saw a black bear right next to the trail as we approached Goat Flats. He ran away from us and partially up a nearby tree.
We made good time considering we left the trail head at 2:30 p.m., arrived at Goat Flats at 5 p.m., and made it to the lookout at 7:15 p.m. (in time for a great sunset).
We saw several mountain goats, the sunset and sunrise were magnificent, we needed ice axes but not crampons, the night was cold (below freezing in the lookout), but overall it was awesome!
Monday, September 17, 2007
The Wisdom Literature: Remedies for a Crisis in Character
“There is a mine for silver and a place where gold is refined…(Man) tunnels through the rock; his eyes see all its treasure...But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell? Man does not comprehend its worth; it cannot be found in the land of the living. The deep says, “It is not in me”; the sea says, “It is not with me.” It cannot be bought with the finest gold, nor can its price be weighed in silver…God understands the way to it and he alone knows where it dwells...And he said to man, “The fear of the Lord – that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.”” Selections from Job 28
People have risked and lost their lives seeking hidden treasures buried deep in the earth. Fueled by a desire for wealth they risk everything to go into the deepest and most dangerous places on the planet.
Read Job 28. The implications are clear: There is a greater treasure available to all of us and it is found in God. It is surmised by calling us to fear Him and to shun evil. Can we be passionate about these treasures? Can we pursue them with intense desire and cash in on their great rewards? The obvious answer is, "yes", but will we? Why, or why not? I am preparing for the upcoming School of the Bible (starting on Wednesday, September 26th at Eastside) and am struck by the invitation to gain wisdom with its promised riches, joy, depths and answers. I hope you will be able to join me. I will be updating my blog with my notes and messages.
People have risked and lost their lives seeking hidden treasures buried deep in the earth. Fueled by a desire for wealth they risk everything to go into the deepest and most dangerous places on the planet.
Read Job 28. The implications are clear: There is a greater treasure available to all of us and it is found in God. It is surmised by calling us to fear Him and to shun evil. Can we be passionate about these treasures? Can we pursue them with intense desire and cash in on their great rewards? The obvious answer is, "yes", but will we? Why, or why not? I am preparing for the upcoming School of the Bible (starting on Wednesday, September 26th at Eastside) and am struck by the invitation to gain wisdom with its promised riches, joy, depths and answers. I hope you will be able to join me. I will be updating my blog with my notes and messages.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
What I am reading...
I always seem to be lugging books around between the church and home. Right now there are seven books that I am working through. Here is my brief synopsis and recommendations.
The Simple Church Based on case studies of four hundred American churches, authors Thom Rainer and Eric Geiger prove that the process for making disciples has quite often become too complex. Simple churches are thriving, and they are doing so by taking these four ideas to heart: Clarity. Movement. Alignment. Focus. Each idea is examined here, simply showing why it is time to simplify. This is a book that I am enjoying. It is always a challenge to keep moving towards simplicity. The natural trend of every church is to start new programs and ministries. Eventually things can get out of control. This is a refreshing call to a clear focus and mission.
Good to Great in the Social Sectors by Jim Collins
This addendum to "Good to Great" incorporates findings that are unique to non-profits and volunteer driven organizations (including churches). It is insightful and challenging. This book will help leaders determine a culture of excellence that could allow them to see significant progress in achieving their mission. I also like the fact that it is only 35 pages long!
N.T. Wright's, Evil and the Justice of God.
Why does evil persist in a world created by a good God? And why does the church seem so feeble in counteracting evil? Wright, a New Testament scholar who is Anglican bishop of Durham, U.K., and author of several well-received volumes, including Jesus and the Victory of God, addresses these questions in a readable and compelling plea to renew the church's compassionate mission in these challenging times. While many look to secular institutions to fix society's problems, Wright counsels that Christians must envision what life will be like in the coming Kingdom, and then suggests ways in which they can help bring about that world—one where suffering and war are things of the past. Wright expresses godly concern and deep devotion, and offers a vision that he believes is workable even in the midst of so many problems. I am going to be teaching on class on the book of Job and I thought this book might have some helpful insights. N.T. Wright is unquestionably one of the most prominent Christian scholars of today. He deals with these "big questions" in a logical, balanced, Biblical and pro-active way.
Character in Crisis by William P. Brown and Old Testament Wisdom by James Crenshaw. These are two resources I am working through in preparation for my upcoming teaching series on The Wisdom Literature at our School of the Bible.
Shred of Truth and Facing the Giants These are my brother-in-law's two latest books. They are fun books if you like a good story.
The Simple Church Based on case studies of four hundred American churches, authors Thom Rainer and Eric Geiger prove that the process for making disciples has quite often become too complex. Simple churches are thriving, and they are doing so by taking these four ideas to heart: Clarity. Movement. Alignment. Focus. Each idea is examined here, simply showing why it is time to simplify. This is a book that I am enjoying. It is always a challenge to keep moving towards simplicity. The natural trend of every church is to start new programs and ministries. Eventually things can get out of control. This is a refreshing call to a clear focus and mission.
Good to Great in the Social Sectors by Jim Collins
This addendum to "Good to Great" incorporates findings that are unique to non-profits and volunteer driven organizations (including churches). It is insightful and challenging. This book will help leaders determine a culture of excellence that could allow them to see significant progress in achieving their mission. I also like the fact that it is only 35 pages long!
N.T. Wright's, Evil and the Justice of God.
Why does evil persist in a world created by a good God? And why does the church seem so feeble in counteracting evil? Wright, a New Testament scholar who is Anglican bishop of Durham, U.K., and author of several well-received volumes, including Jesus and the Victory of God, addresses these questions in a readable and compelling plea to renew the church's compassionate mission in these challenging times. While many look to secular institutions to fix society's problems, Wright counsels that Christians must envision what life will be like in the coming Kingdom, and then suggests ways in which they can help bring about that world—one where suffering and war are things of the past. Wright expresses godly concern and deep devotion, and offers a vision that he believes is workable even in the midst of so many problems. I am going to be teaching on class on the book of Job and I thought this book might have some helpful insights. N.T. Wright is unquestionably one of the most prominent Christian scholars of today. He deals with these "big questions" in a logical, balanced, Biblical and pro-active way.
Character in Crisis by William P. Brown and Old Testament Wisdom by James Crenshaw. These are two resources I am working through in preparation for my upcoming teaching series on The Wisdom Literature at our School of the Bible.
Shred of Truth and Facing the Giants These are my brother-in-law's two latest books. They are fun books if you like a good story.
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