Genesis 6
The "sons of God" (angels) are sleeping with women and producing the Nephilim. The Nephilim where "mighty men who were of old, the men of renown." God declares that man shall only live for 120 years.
People are getting worse and just thinking evil thoughts all the time (selfish?). God plans on wiping away life entirely. However, Noah was righteous and he desired to preserve him, so he told Noah the specs for an ark to carry him, his wife, and his sons and their wives, along with two of every animal and lots of food.
- Seriously, what is up with the Nephilim? Why are angels coming down and impregnating human women? The Nephilim sound a lot like Greek and Roman demigods. Is it possible that they were used as an explanation for particularly extraordinary people as they passed into legend?
- Why was Noah so good when everyone else was evil?
The Sermon on the Mount continues:
He states that we shouldn't show our righteousness and giving to others, but do it in secret. This keeps our purposes clean and makes sure we're giving for the right reasons.
He states that we shouldn't give big flowery prayers and provides The Lord's Prayer.
He states that we shouldn't make a big production out of fasting, but just do it and go about our normal lives as we do.
He states that we shouldn't focus on acquiring wealth. You can't serve both God and money.
He tells us not to worry. God takes care of the flowers in the field, the birds, the grasses, and so he definitely has you covered.
- The "don't worry" verses are particularly useful in a society and era where we sweat the small stuff.
Darius researches and determines that Cyrus did in fact make this decree. He instructs the provincial officials to honor the decree and facilitate the completion of the temple.
The temple is finished, dedicated, and they celebrate a particularly joyous Passover.
Acts 6
The Hellenists (who?) complain that the Hebrews are neglecting widows in the daily distribution of resources. The 12 apostles say "we can't preach and distribute at the same time". So they elect seven new disciples to distribution duty so they can focus on preaching. This frees them up, and they continue to preach, converting a number of local priests.
One of the seven, Stephen, was performing miracles and some took issue with him. However, they couldn't best him in debate, so they secretly had him accused of blasphemy. He was arrested and accused, but it was clear that the Spirit was on him.
- Who are the Hellenists? Greek Jews?
- Why were the widows specifically getting neglected?
- Why was Stephen out preaching when his job was distribution? I assume maybe he had more time?
- Was there something about what Stephen said that made these certain synagogues go after him?
No comments:
Post a Comment