Biblical Epithets for God: Redeemer

Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet of God as a “Help.” This month, we will consider the epithet of God as a “Redeemer.”

The English word “Redeemer” is derived from the Latin, whose root meaning is “to buy back.” The result is the “liberation of any possession, object, or person, usually by payment of a ransom.” (Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible) The epithet of Redeemer alludes to God’s attributes of love, mercy, grace, and kindness. Further, it relates to the epithet of “Savior” as God is the source of both physical and spiritual deliverance. God is able to deliver His people from danger, adversity, harm, and trouble.

God is described as “Redeemer” by Job in response to his friends’ accusations as he seeks vindication. Job states, “For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth.” Job 19:25 (ESV) David requests that he would be forgiven of hidden faults and preserved from sinning willfully. He concludes this beautiful Psalm of devotion with a well-known prayer, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalm 19:14 (ESV) Isaiah often uses this epithet when speaking of the One True God who chose Israel. In the forty-fourth chapter of Isaiah, after reminding the Jews of God’s care for them, Isaiah writes, “Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, who formed you from the womb: ‘I am the LORD, who made all things, who alone stretched out the heavens, who spread out the earth by myself.’” Isaiah 44:24 (ESV) In speaking of the Servant (Jesus) who will be a light to the nations, Isaiah writes, “Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nation, the servant of rulers: ‘Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall prostrate themselves; because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.’” Isaiah 49:7 (ESV) Finally, in response to the brutality of the Babylonians and the manner in which they treated God’s people, Jeremiah writes, “Their Redeemer is strong; the LORD of hosts is his name. He will surely plead their cause, that he may give rest to the earth, but unrest to the inhabitants of Babylon.” Jeremiah 50:34 (ESV) Though in this newsletter, we are focusing on the epithet of “Redeemer” as relates generally for God, we know that the ultimate redemption accomplished by God, was through the “Redeemer” of His Son Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul reminds us that “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree.’”— Galatians 3:13 (ESV)
I leave you with this story:

The following illustration is by Charles Spurgeon: “There is a young girl in heaven now, once a member of this church. I went with one of my beloved deacons to see her when she was very near her departure. She was in the last stage of tuberculosis. Fair and sweetly beautiful she looked, and I think I never heard such syllables as those which fell from that girl’s lips. She had had disappointments, and trials, and troubles, but all these she had not a word to say about, except that she blessed God for them; they had brought her nearer to the Savior. And when we asked her whether she was not afraid of dying, ‘No,’ she said, ‘the only thing I fear is this, I am afraid of living, lest my patience should wear out. I have not said an impatient word yet, sir; I hope I shall not. It is sad to be so very weak, but I think if I had my choice, I would rather be here than be in good health, for it is very precious to me; I know that my Redeemer liveth, and I am waiting for the moment when he shall send his chariot of fire to take me up to him.’ I put the question, ‘Have you not any doubts?’ ‘No, none, sir; why should I? I clasp my arms around the neck of Christ.’ ‘And have not you any fear about your sins?’ ‘No, sir, they are all forgiven; I trust the Savior’s precious blood.’ ‘And do you think that you will be as brave as this when you come actually to die?’ ‘Not if he leaves me, sir, but he will never leave me, for he said, I will never leave thee nor forsake thee’” (Heb. 13:5). (AMG Bible Illustrations)

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Biblical Epithets for God: Help

Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet of God as “my Strength.” This month, we will consider the epithet of God as a “Help.”

The epithet for God as a “Help” flows from His attributes of love, mercy, grace, and kindness. As “a Help,” God is the source of our safety, defense, and He is a deliverance for His people. The Bible Sense Lexicon states a helper is a person who contributes to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose.

Consider how the concept of God as a “Help” is used in the Scriptures. Moses named his son Eliezer for “The God of my father was my help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh” Exodus 18:4 (ESV). Before his death, Moses blessed Israel, reminding them, “Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD, the shield of your help, and the sword of your triumph! Your enemies shall come fawning to you, and you shall tread upon their backs” Deuteronomy 33:29 (ESV). The psalmist proclaims that God is “the helper of the fatherless” Psalm 10:14 (ESV). For David, God is “my help” Psalm 27:9 (ESV). At other times, he calls on the Lord to “be my helper!” Psalm 30:10 (ESV). Sometimes he remembers “Our soul waits for the LORD; he is our help and our shield” Psalm 33:20 (ESV). Yet, at other instances, David increases in confidence by proclaiming “God is my helper; the Lord is the upholder of my life” Psalm 54:4 (ESV). But God is not just the “Helper” of David. In Psalm 115, the psalmist reminds a variety of groups, “O Israel, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield. O house of Aaron, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield. You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield” Psalm 115:9-11 (ESV). The psalmist calls us to let the truth of God’s help be ever before us. He writes, “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth” Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV). The help of the godly is not found in other sources, but “Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God” Psalm 146:5 (ESV). God is a Helper to the helpless. I leave you with this thought.

The prayers are beautiful that reach the ear of God. The fervent prayer of the righteous man availeth much, and is beautiful. The prayer of the widow and fatherless, who have no helper save he who heareth the orphan's cry, is beautiful. The prayer of the infant, who takes God's promise in his "most implicit grasp," as he does his mother's hand, is beautiful. The prayer of the lowly saint, unlettered and ungrammatical, is beautiful. The prayer of the poor man, when "God heard him and delivered him out of his troubles," was beautiful. The prayer of the publican, who smote upon his breast, and said, "God be merciful to me a sinner," was beautiful. The prayer of Stephen, when amid the storm of stones he cried, just before he "fell asleep," "Lay not this sin to their charge," was beautiful.

There is a grammar and rhetoric of heaven, but it is foreign to the culture of this world. The courtiers there wear "wedding garments," and they speak the celestial language; but sometimes they seem ragged and ignorant to the eyes that are blinded with the clay and dust of our earthly roadsides.

We cannot always discern the fashions of heaven. There is a flippery that sometimes claims to be the garb divine, but it is mere tinsel. There is an "excellency of speech" which is jargon and mockery in the ear of God. There is "sounding brass and tinkling cymbal"—mere clatter, and not celestial music at all. There are "beautiful prayers" that are unlovely and abominable before the Searcher of hearts. (New Testament Illustrations)

As God is the One who saved us by sending His son to die for our sins, let us also rely on Him as a “Help” in every circumstance.

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Biblical Epithets for God: “My Strength”

Hello Beloved,

 We have been studying the “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet of God as “Fortress, Refuge, and Stronghold.” This month, we will consider the epithet of God as “my Strength.”

In being “my Strength” God exhibits His mighty power as the omnipotent God Who is able to resist all who oppose Him with any force they may bring against Him. As Strength, God can give His people perseverance, toughness, and fortitude. He is able to support them mentally, physically, and morally in any adversity, temptation, danger, or challenge that may be faced in this life.

After God delivered His people from Pharoah’s Army by opening the Red Sea and then closing it on their adversaries, Moses sang, “The LORD is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him” Exodus 15:2 (ESV). In Nehemiah 8, after the people listened to God’s Word read and explained, they cried out in contrition and remorse. Nehemiah encouraged them with the words, “. . . Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength” Nehemiah 8:10 (ESV). Consider the first words of David in the eighteenth Psalm, “I love you, O LORD, my strength” Psalm 18:1 (ESV). Further, David opposed the reasons to fear with the truth of God as his strength when He writes, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1 (KJV). The wisdom of Proverbs reminds us that this strength is found as one follows the “way” of the Lord. “The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity” Proverbs 10:29 (KJV). In Isaiah, Jesus as the prophesied “Servant” is to restore Israel to the Lord and be a light to the nations as God is His strength. “And now the LORD says, he who formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him; and that Israel might be gathered to him— for I am honored in the eyes of the LORD, and my God has become my strength" Isaiah 49:5 (ESV). After hearing the revelation and plan of God, the prophet Habakkuk praises God, ending his prayer with, “GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places . . . ” Habakkuk 3:19 (ESV).

I conclude with this thought on strength from depth, “The iceberg is steadied because the great mass of its bulk is beneath the surface. So the life of the strong man must go deep. Underneath the surface lie the great principles that endure—truth and justice and rectitude and the things that make for wholesome life and character.” (Bible Illustrations - A Treasury of Bible Illustrations). May the Lord be the strength in your life.

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Biblical Epithets for God: Fortress, Refuge, and Stronghold

Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet of God as “Savior or Salvation.” This month, we will consider the epithet of God as “Fortress, Refuge, and Stronghold.”

A fortress (mesuda) is a defensive structure that encompasses walls, citadels, and possibly moats or towers. If you were to live in the time of David, a fortress would be a prime source of security from enemy forces. Often, cities would choose sites that were naturally favorable to fortresses, like the top of a mountainous terrain or an ample water supply. In ancient times, fortifications were made from debris, rubble, beaten earth, and just about anything that would provide protection. Many times, the Psalmist would equate trust in God with that of a fortress. David states, “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer . . .” Psalm 18:2 (ESV). The idea of a fortress is close to the concept of refuge (maoz). In Psalm 31, David claims in language that is reminiscent of Christ’s suffering, “In you, O LORD, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me! Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily! Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me! For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me;” Psalm 31:1-3 (ESV). Further, the idea of “stronghold” (misgabbi) is often used synonymously with the concepts of fortress and refuge, but it specifically describes a strongly fortified defensive or military structure (Logos Bible Lexicon). Consider David’s use of these concepts in Psalm 62, “For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress (misgabbi); I shall not be greatly shaken” Psalm 62:1-2 (ESV). Finally, consider David’s cry in Psalm 9:9-10, “The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you” Psalm 9:9-10 (ESV).

I am currently preparing for this Sunday’s sermon on the Immanuel prophecy of Isaiah 7:14. By the time you read this article, you will have heard the sermon. Consider David’s descendant, Ahaz, in relation to this principle. Ahaz was afraid of the militaristic alliance between Israel and Syria. He should have found his security in God, for it was God who desired to be Ahaz’ fortress, stronghold, and refuge. God even provided an opportunity for Ahaz to request a sign to strengthen His faith. Instead, however, Ahaz chose to find his security in the political alliance between Judah and Assyria. Such unbelief cost Ahaz and God’s people, Judah, dearly.

Is God your source of security and refuge? Do you trust Him as your fortress when the boss wants you to do something unethical? Do you find refuge in Him when false rumors are being spread about your character? Do you seek Him as your stronghold when you lost your job and you do not know from where the next paycheck is coming? These are times when God yearns to be our stronghold, our fortress, and our refuge. I leave you with the first stanza of what might be the most popular hymn of the Reformer, Martin Luther, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.”

A mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing;
Our helper he, amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe
Does seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great,
And armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

Until next time this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Biblical Epithets for God: Savior or Salvation

Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet “Rock” in relation to God. This month, we will consider the epithet of God as “Savior or Salvation.” As “Salvation or Savior,” God reveals His attributes of love, grace, mercy, and kindness. Often, salvation bears the connotation of deliverance, whether in a physical or spiritual manner. God can and many times does deliver His people from danger, harm, adversity, or troubles.

After God delivered the people of Israel from Pharoah’s army, Moses wrote his song, exulting, “The LORD is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation . . .” Exodus 15:2 (ESV). As David recounted the many times that God delivered him from his adversaries, he wrote of Him, “Great salvation he brings to his king, and shows steadfast love to his anointed, to David and his offspring forever” 2 Samuel 22:51 (ESV). Regarding the promise of God’s restoration for the people of Israel, Isaiah writes, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the LORD GOD is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation” Isaiah 12:2 (ESV). Of course, I have often sung with Isaiah of the great comfort God has given His people in promising, “I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior . . .” Isaiah 43:3 (ESV). Finally, as a segway to this special season that we call Christmas, we are reminded that an angel told Joseph to name Mary’s child, Jesus, for the name means “Savior” and He “will save His people from their sins” (Matt 1:21). Ultimately, Jesus did “save us” by redeeming us from our sin through dying on an old rugged cross, and then rising from the dead on the third day. Let us remember that this is what Christmas is all about.

In his book, The Sacred Santa: Religious Dimensions of Consumer Culture, Dell deChant, a professor of religious studies at the University of South Florida contends that “the Christmas season culture has become a religion all its own.” He suggests “It's a religion complete with mysterious and powerful deities (the economy, Santa Claus), houses of worship (malls), narratives (carols) and rituals (shopping and decorating). Santa, not Jesus, is the savior of the season,” says deChant, “He certainly saves the bottom line for retailers across the country.” Even though many of us complain about the commercialism, deChant says the “’Festival of Consumption’ between Thanksgiving and the week after Christmas has taken on all the characteristics of traditional religions, embraced with equal fervor by the holy and not-so-holy among us. He calls it "a religious culture in disguise." (Fresh Illustrations)

Let us keep Christ in Christmas. Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Biblical Epithets for God: Rock

Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet “Judge” in relation to God. This month, we will consider the function of God as “Rock.” As a “Rock,” God is stable and fixed. That is, He does not change. God is unvarying in His character and always keeps His promises. God is also enduring and permanent; something that can be relied upon. Like a rock over the years of time, God is steady. A rock also functions as a protector. Many a fortress or place of refuge has been built atop a high rock. Like a great rock, God is powerful and able to meet the needs of His people. Therefore, the concept of rock flows well with God’s omnipotence (all-powerful), faithfulness, and immutability (unchanging).

In Psalm 19:14, David desires that the meditations of his heart would be acceptable to the Lord who is “my rock” and “my redeemer.” Moses describes the justice and purity of God when he states, “For I will proclaim the name of the LORD; ascribe greatness to our God! “The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he” Deuteronomy 32:3-4 (ESV). Hannah used the epithet of rock to describe God’s holiness when she sang, “There is none holy like the LORD: for there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God” 1 Samuel 2:2 (ESV). To David, the rock was the one to whom he prayed stating, “To you, O LORD, I call; my rock, be not deaf to me, lest, if you be silent to me, I become like those who go down to the pit” Psalm 28:1 (ESV). Or consider David’s source of comfort as he prays, “from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I” Psalm 61:2 (ESV). Writing of God’s holiness and righteousness, the Psalmist claims, “the LORD is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him” Psalm 92:15 (ESV). And in
Psalm 95, the psalmist uses the concept of rock as an aspect of worship when He calls to his fellow congregants, “Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!” Psalm 95:1 (ESV). Consider this illustration about Christ, our Rock:

In a storm one dark night some sailors were thrown by the sea upon a rock, to which they clung for their lives. Their first feeling was one of joyful gratitude. They were on a rock. Their second emotion was a sickening fear, for the tide might rise, and the storm and waves sweep over the rock and carry them away to death in the raging sea. Just then a flash of lightening overtook the darkness, and by its lurid glare they saw that the rock was covered with samphire, a plant which always grows above the level of the tide. Then were they greatly glad, for they were assuredly safe. So is it in our wildest storms, if we cast upon the rock Christ Jesus. If God loves us we shall live, for the love involves the life—life here, life everlasting. (Bible Illustrations)

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Biblical Epithets for God: Judge

Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet “Lawgiver” in relation to God. This month, we will consider the function of God as “Judge.” In being Judge, God has the authoritative right to discern what is moral, just, right, and good. As God is holy in His very nature, we can be assured that what is moral and just is directly reflective of His essence. As God is righteous in His character, He determines what is right and always knows what is the “right” thing to do. As God is the transcendent Creator, He purposed and planned the ultimate meaning and significance in His creation; and therefore, He affirms in accordance with His original plans what is “good.” God as Judge examines and evaluates deeds and works according to His righteous standards. God as Judge determines an appropriate punishment for those who break His standards. And God as Judge rewards the righteous in relation to His faithfulness. Further, we must remember that as God is the Judge, and we are not, He will put down and exalt whom He wills.

Consider these Biblical allusions to God in His role as “Judge.” In arguing for mercy on Sodom should there were but fifty righteous among the wicked, Abraham asked, “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?” Genesis 18:25 (ESV). Reflecting on the revelation of God in His creation, Asaph states, “Our God comes; he does not keep silence; before him is a devouring fire, around him a mighty tempest. He calls to the heavens above and to the earth, that he may judge his people . . . The heavens declare his righteousness, for God himself is judge! Selah” Psalm 50:3-6 (ESV). Again, Asaph states, “. . . it is God who executes judgment, putting down one and lifting up another” Psalm 75:7 (ESV). In the ninety-fourth Psalm, we are reminded that God is a God of vengeance, and in His justice, the psalmist requests that God “shine forth! Rise up, O judge of the earth; repay to the proud what they deserve! Psalm 94:1-2 (ESV). Yet, Isaiah reminds God’s people that God is gracious and “the LORD is our judge; the LORD is our lawgiver; the LORD is our king; he will save us” Isaiah 33:22 (ESV). God provided salvation through Jesus, His Son, yet Peter reminds us that Jesus is also “the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead”
Acts 10:42 (ESV). It was the Apostle Paul, who in facing death considered his reward when writing, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing” 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (ESV).

I am so grateful that God Who is righteous and just is also loving and compassionate. No matter how many times I read this illustration, the principle always rings true to illuminate the mercy of our righteous Judge.

Two men who had been friends and companions in their youth met in the police court, the one on the magistrate's bench, the other in the prisoner's dock. The case was tried and the prisoner was found guilty. Would the judge, in consideration of their friendship years before, forbear to pass judgment? No, he must fulfill his duty, justice must be done, the law of the land obeyed. He gave out the sentence—fourteen days' hard labor or a fine of $500. The condemned man had nothing to pay, so the prison cell was before him. But as soon as he had pronounced the sentence the judge rose from the bench, threw aside his magistrate's robes, and stepping down to the dock, stood beside the prisoner, paid his fine for him, and then said, "Now, John, you are coming home with me to supper." It is just so with the sinner. God cannot overlook sin. Justice must be done, and the sentence pronounced, but Christ Himself pays the debt and the sinner is free. (Bible Illustrations)

What a wonderful gift that God the righteous Judge gave when He sent His only Son to die for our sins. His Word calls us to respond in faith and repentance. Have you received this gift of amazing grace? If not, call us here at Grace Baptist Church and I would love to have a conversation with you about how you can have a right relationship with God. Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Biblical Epithets for God: Lawgiver

Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the names of God over the past eighteen months. These names have helped us to better understand God’s character and attributes. We now have moved to observe some Biblical “epithets” for God. As a reminder, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” Last month, we considered the epithet “King” in relation to God. This month, we will consider the function of God as “Lawgiver.” As Lawgiver, the sovereign God sets moral standards concerning what is right or wrong. He has the authority in this function to demand obedience, accountability, and responsibility in direct conjunction with the moral standard He sets. Further, as the Lawgiver, God is the perfect standard of what is good, right, and just.

We must be extremely careful about usurping the place of God as “Lawgiver.” It is easy for us to set ourselves in this position and judge others based on our own laws or convictions. Consider what James states, “There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?” (James 4:12 ESV). In Isaiah 33:22, the prophet speaks about God stating, “For the LORD is our judge; the LORD is our lawgiver; the LORD is our king; he will save us” Isaiah 33:22 (ESV). Prior to the attribution of this epithet to God, the prophet argues for his readers to consider their actions in relation to God as “Lawgiver.” He writes, “14 The sinners in Zion are afraid; trembling has seized the godless: ‘Who among us can dwell with the consuming fire? Who among us can dwell with everlasting burnings?’ 15 He who walks righteously and speaks uprightly, who despises the gain of oppressions, who shakes his hands, lest they hold a bribe, who stops his ears from hearing of bloodshed and shuts his eyes from looking on evil, 16 he will dwell on the heights; his place of defense will be the fortresses of rocks; his bread will be given him; his water will be sure.” Isaiah 33:14-16 (ESV).  I conclude with a quote from A.W. Tozer:

God's justice stands forever against the sinner in utter severity. The vague and tenuous hope that God is too kind to punish the ungodly has become a deadly opiate for the consciences of millions. It hushes their fears and allows them to practice all pleasant forms of iniquity while death draws every day nearer and the command to repent goes unregarded. As responsible moral beings we dare not so trifle with our eternal future. (A. W. Tozer: 1897-1963)

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Biblical Epithets for God: King

Hello Beloved,

We have been studying the names of God over the past eighteen months. These names have helped us to better understand God’s character and attributes. We now move to observe some Biblical “epithets” for God. You may be wondering, “What exactly is an epithet, and why is it important for learning more about God?” Well, to answer your first question, the Oxford English Dictionary defines an epithet as “an adjective or phrase expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of the person or thing mentioned.” For instance, I am a Pastor by title, but when someone says, you are “my Pastor,” the connotation takes on a whole new meaning. The positional title that I have been given by the church takes on a functional overtone of care, compassion, teaching, and council. In a similar manner, there are many of these adjectival epithets which the Bible uses to help us understand more about God and His functional roles in our lives.

The first epithet that we will consider is that of “King.” You could imagine that God as King directly relates to the concept of God’s Kingdom, a concept that pervades the whole of Scripture. We see the concept of King in its initial stages after God’s deliverance of Israel from the Egyptian armies at the Red Sea crossing. At the end of the song of Moses, the man of God declares “the LORD will reign forever and ever.” Exodus 15:18 (ESV) In Numbers 23, Balaam prophesies of God’s kingship in Israel. He states, “He has not beheld misfortune in Jacob, nor has he seen trouble in Israel. The LORD their God is with them, and the shout of a king is among them.” Numbers 23:21 (ESV) In 1 Samuel, the people wanted a king like the nations, and God gave them a king like the nations in Saul. However, before Samuel revealed this king, he rebuked the people for not being content to have God as their king. Samuel stated, “And when you saw that Nahash the king of the Ammonites came against you, you said to me, ‘No, but a king shall reign over us,’ when the LORD your God was your king.” 1 Samuel 12:12 (ESV) Isaiah reminds God’s people of His faithfulness to the Jews by communicating, “for the LORD is our judge; the LORD is our lawgiver; the LORD is our king; he will save us.” Isaiah 33:22 (ESV) Zechariah proclaims that in the millennial kingdom “the LORD will be king over all the earth. On that day the LORD will be one and his name one.” Zechariah 14:9 (ESV) Finally, in 1 Timothy, Paul cries out a statement of praise and confidence resounding, “to the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:17 (ESV)

The title of “King” describes God as the eternal and sovereign ruler over the whole creation: visible and invisible, heavenly and earthly, material and immaterial, or animal and spiritual. As King, God is superior to all of creation and created beings as relates to rank, power, prestige, and authority. In His kingship, God speaks on His own authority; therefore, all of His standards, judgments, statutes, and decrees are based on His sovereignty. Finally, as the King, God is the Leader, Deliverer, and Protector of His chosen People nationally and individually. As Josiah Conder so stated, “The Lord is King! Who then shall dare resist his will, distrust his care, or murmur at his wise decrees, or doubt his royal promises?”

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

The Names of God: Kyrios

Hello Beloved,

As we continue the discussion on God’s names, we have moved from the Old to the New Testament, so we are dealing more with titles than names at this point. The name or title that we will consider in this article is the Greek kyrios, which is usually translated, Lord. Similar to the Hebrew Adonai, the Greek kyrios can mean owner or master. It is also sometimes translated as sir, such as in John 4:11 where the “woman at the well” respectfully questioned Jesus’ ability to draw water from the well. The word is translated as owner in Luke 19:33 to describe the possessors of the colt that Jesus rode for His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. In Colossians 4:1, the title is used of masters, in the context of Paul’s admonition that they treat their bondservants with justice and fairness. However, for our purposes, God’s title of Kyrios as Lord can also speak of His creatorship, power to reveal history, and just dominion over the universe. When used of God, it infers superior sovereignty over all things, and it insinuates that He is the Creator and Owner of all things; whether visible or invisible, heavenly or earthly, and material or immaterial. The term kyrios is heavily used in Luke’s writings (210 times) and in those from Paul (275 times).

My favorite passage which uses the term Kyrios is found in the Christ hymn that Paul wrote, referenced in Philippians 2:5-11. After Paul gives the description of Christ’s incarnation, self-emptying, humiliation, and death on the cross; he communicates Christ’s exaltation as God gave Him a name above every name. In verses ten and eleven Paul states, “so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Kyrios), to the glory of God the Father” Philippians 2:10-11 (ESV). What makes the use of “Lord” or “Kyrios” here so unique and important is that Paul is actually quoting a passage from Isaiah. In the servant section of Isaiah, the prophet writes:

22 “Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other. 23 By myself I have sworn; from my mouth has gone out in righteousness a word that shall not return: ‘To me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear allegiance.’ 24 “Only in the LORD (Yahweh), it shall be said of me, are righteousness and strength; to him shall come and be ashamed all who were incensed against him. 25 In the LORD (Yahweh) all the offspring of Israel shall be justified and shall glory.” Isaiah 45:22-25 (ESV)

Please note that the quote from the Christ hymn in Philippians, which calls Jesus “Lord” or “Kyrios” comes directly from a statement in Isaiah which designates that such posture of worship belongs only to God. Even more than that, the name used for God is that of “LORD” or “Yahweh,” which is the very personal, sacred, and covenant name of God. By using “Lord” or “Kyrios” in alluding to this text, Paul is making the crystal-clear assertion of Jesus’ deity. Of course, I end with that oft sung hymn that finds its truth in the Christ hymn.

He Is Lord, He Is Lord!
He Is Risen From The Dead, And He Is Lord!
Every Knee Shall Bow, Every Tongue Confess
That Jesus Christ Is Lord!

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

The Names of God: Theos

Hello Beloved,

As we continue our discussion on the names of God, we find ourselves leaving the Hebrew of the Old Testament and moving to the Greek of the New Testament. Similar to the way we began our study for the names of God in the Old Testament, we start with the most basic term for “God” in the Greek, “Theos.”

Theos is almost always translated God, and usually refers to the one true God. Because it is the most generic term for divinity, theos can also be used in other ways. Sometimes theos is used for the “gods” of paganism (Acts 12:22; 14:11; 17:23; 19:26-27; 1 Corinthians 8:5; 2 Thessalonians 2:4). Sometimes, the word can be used of Satan, as when Paul describes him as “the god of this age”
(2 Corinthians 4:4). Sometimes theos is used in an idolatrous manner as when Paul utilizes the term to characterize man’s sinful sensuality in “whose god is their belly” (Philippians 3:19). Of course, in the true sense of divine nature, Jesus Christ is called “Theos” (Romans 9:5; John 1:1,18; 20:28;
Titus 2:13).

Theos technically is not a “name” for God, but a title. As has already been stated, theos is frequently used as the common term for deity in general; however, the word Theos was linked directly to the Jewish concept of God even prior to the formation of the New Testament. For instance, in the Greek Old Testament called the Septuagint, Theos was often the Greek translation for the Hebrew generic term of God, Elohim. Therefore, when Theos was used of God in these contexts, it revealed the truth that He was the one and only true God. The New Testament testifies that Theos (God) is the “only” God (1Timothy 1:17), the only “true’ God (John 17:3), the only “Holy One” (Revelation 15:4), and the only “wise One” (Romans 16:27). Since this is true, believers are to have no other gods besides the one true God [Theos} (Matthew 6:24). As the Theos, God is the Creator, Sustainer, Lord, and Orchestrator of the universe (Acts 17:24; Hebrews 3:4; Revelation 10:6).

When Theos was used in the New Testament, it defined God in much clearer terms, separating the core concepts of Christianity from that of Judaism. This core distinction relates to the truth that God is one essence in three persons: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. And God brings redemption through His Son, the Messianic figure of Jesus Christ by His substitutionary death on the cross. The New Testament reveals that Theos is Savior (1 Timothy 1:1; 2:3; 4:10; Titus 1:3; 2:13; 3:4). If we are “in Christ,” then we have a right relationship with God; and through His Spirit, God dwells in us. Consider this final sidenote. The word "Enthusiasm" is derived from two Greek words: "en" meaning in and "theos" meaning God. Enthusiasm is literally “God in us.” The enthusiastic man is one who speaks as if he were possessed by God.

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit”.

The Names of God: Yaweh-Adonai

Hello Beloved,

As we continue our study of God’s names, we move from Yahweh, Elohim, and their compounds to a third Hebrew name for God, Adonai. Adonai is often translated “Lord,” but please do not confuse this name with that of the capitalized “LORD,” which often takes the place of Yahweh in our English translations. Similarly, in Jewish tradition, when reading the Hebrew Scripture, they would often substitute the personal name of God, “Yahweh” with “Adonai.” Adonai is used of God about three hundred times in the Old Testament, and like “Elohim” the name “Adonai” is in the plural when it is used of God.

The Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible defines Adonai: the “Divine name translated as ‘Lord’ signifying honor, majesty, and sovereignty.” Adonai, being translated as Lord, signifies ownership or simply the master. Of course, the names “lord” and “master” are often used to describe relationships between servants and their masters in the realm of human interaction. On a practical or relevant level, the name of “Adonai” emphasizes the fact that God is the owner of every human being, and He deserves absolute obedience from all. A scene form Genesis helps to picture the loving and yielding disposition of a servant to his master. The Lord appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre. Abraham, from the opening of his tent lifted his eyes and saw Him, along with two angels. Immediately, Abraham ran and bowed himself stating, “O Lord (Adonai), if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.” Genesis 18:3 (ESV) The name of “Adonai” expresses complete dependence on God, trust in Him as master and Lord, and infers a pledge to yield to His will. Further, the name “Adonai” can be used to express assurance, security, ready service, and thanksgiving to the true “Master” and “Lord” of all. Consider how David intersperses the personal name of God (Yahweh) with that of His name for lordship and submission (Adonai). David writes, “I say to the LORD (Yahweh), “You are my Lord (Adonai); I have no good apart from you.”
Psalm 16:2 (ESV) Or consider David’s words of security and thanksgiving to God, when he found himself on the run from Saul while hiding in a cave. Davide states, “I will give thanks to you, O Lord (Adonai), among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations. For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Psalm 57:9-10 (ESV) Further, consider the words of the prophet, Habakkuk. Though he struggled with understanding the ways of God and His discipline of Judah, at the end of the book, the prophet has nothing but praise. He writes, “Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD (Yahweh); I will take joy in the God of my salvation. GOD, the Lord (Adonai), is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places . . .” Habakkuk 3:17-19 (ESV)

As I think of these texts, I am reminded of an inscription on a child’s tomb, which reads:

"Who plucked that flower?" cried the gardener as he walked through the garden. His fellow-servant answered, "The Master." . . . And the gardener held his peace.—Elon Foster 

This life contains many challenges and difficulties. We are tempted to question the Lord regarding why circumstances occur as they do, given the sovereign hand of God and His control over all things. Nevertheless, we remember the yielding attitude of Abraham as he awaited God’s promised seed. We recall David’s resolve in the Lord’s goodness while running from Saul, who slanderously accused him, though he was innocent. And we identify with Habakkuk, who yielded his understanding to the ways of the Lord. Do you have an issue in your life right now in which you find yourself needing to bend the knee and pray, “Lord, you are ‘Adonai,’ and I trust in You.” 

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit”.

The Names of God: Yahweh-Elohim

Hello Beloved,

Welcome back to all our blog readers. We are glad to continue this series of study now that Grace has another assistant to help Anita, Kelly Dunnigan. As we pick up on our study of God’s names, today’s focus is the compound names of God relating to his covenant name of Yahweh (YHWH), otherwise known as the tetragrammaton. In this addition, we will consider the compound name of Yahweh-Elohim. The usage for these compounds combines the covenant name of God (Yahweh) and the most used and generic name of God in the Old Testament (Elohim).

It would be wise at this juncture to do a little review. The name of “Yahweh” is derived from the Hebrew verb which means “to be” or “being,” and carries the idea of self-existence. The name of “Elohim” is derived from the Hebrew roots of “El,” which means unlimited strength, energy, might, and power, with the root “alah,” which means to swear, declare, or make a covenant. Being the generic name of God in the Old Testament, Elohim gives the idea of infinite strength and absolute faithfulness. “Yahweh-Elohim” is most often translated “the LORD God” in the English translations.

As we approach the significance of the name “Yahweh-Elohim,” we begin by focusing on the introduction of Yahweh to Moses in the text surrounding Exodus 3:14. From this introduction and the following dialogue, we deduce that “Yahweh” is the God who is present with His people and will go before them. “Yahweh-Elohim” is the eternal, self-existent One, without beginning and without end. He is the One who possesses essential life and permanent existence. “Yahweh-Elohim” keeps His covenants, promises, and eternally sworn purposes. Therefore, the very character of the name “Yahweh-Elohim” infers that God cannot make a covenant or promise that He is unable to fulfill. Sometimes “Yahweh-Elohim” is used with other names of God to give a triple compound meaning, such as with Yahweh-Elohim-Sabaoth (LORD God of Hosts) or Yahweh-Elohim-Israel (Lord God of Israel). A couple of key Scriptures in which “Yahweh-Elohim” is used include Genesis 2:4 and Exodus 3:15. Let’s look at the use of this name in Genesis 2:4 through the end of Genesis 4 to get an idea of how Moses utilized this name of God. Please take a moment to stop and read this section of Scripture. When you read in all capital letters L-O-R-D, think Yahweh, and when you read God, think Elohim.

We read at the beginning of the second creation narrative, “These are the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God (Yahweh-Elohim) made the earth and the heavens.” Genesis 2:4 (ESV) From this text to the end of chapter 4 there is a fascinating use of the name “Yahweh-Elohim” that connects the purposes of God for humanity with humanity’s fall into sin. Then as we continue to read through Moses’ work of the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible), we perceive God’s plan of redemption through Israel in the presentation of His name at the burning bush incident where God states:

14   . . .  “I AM WHO I AM.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” 15 God also said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel, ‘The LORD (Yahweh), the God (Elohim) of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’ This is my name forever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations. Exodus 3:14-15 (ESV)

Consider what Pastor and author Kent Hughes communicates about “Yahweh-Elohim” in
Genesis 2 through 4:

Up to this point in the story, Moses has used only one designation for God, the name Elohim. And he has used it with studied care some thirty-five times (five times seven, the number of perfection). Elohim is the appropriate word for the majestic portrayal of God as Creator of the universe, signifying omnipotent deity. The thirty-five repeated use of this name is metered praise for the perfect creation of the perfect Creator. But now at 2:4 (where chapter 2 should actually begin), the name for God switches to Yahweh-Elohim, “the Lord God” as our translations have it. Yahweh-Elohim is the dominant name from here to the end of chapter 4, which concludes this second section of the creation account. The reason for this is that Yahweh is the personal covenant name of God who relates to and redeems his people (cf. 15:7 and Exodus 3:14, 15). Significantly, the only place in chapters 2–4 that it is not used is 3:2–5, when the serpent and Eve consciously avoid the personal name of God as she is lured toward sin. Gordon Wenham, the eminent Genesis commentator, remarks, “The god they are talking about is malevolent, secretive, and concerned to restrict man: his character is so different from that of Yahweh Elohim that the narrative pointedly avoids the name in the dialogue.” Beautifully, Yahweh-Elohim combines the Creator and Covenant-Redeemer aspects of God into one magnificent name. Here, in the immediate context of the Sabbath, which for Israel became a day to celebrate God as Creator (cf. Exodus 20:11) and as Redeemer (cf. Deuteronomy 5:15), the name Yahweh-Elohim—“the Lord God”—proclaims both these realities. So for our own hearts, we must remember that whenever we come across the title “the Lord God” in Scripture, it signifies God our Creator and our Covenant-Redeemer. How utterly beautiful “the Lord God” is! The appropriateness of this name to this section is everywhere apparent, because Genesis 2–4 focuses on man and woman’s relationship with God. We see it immediately in 2:4–17, which deals with man’s nature, position, and responsibility to God in creation (R. Kent Hughes, Genesis: Beginning and Blessing)

Therefore, let us praise the Almighty God who keeps His promises as the Elohim, and remember He has given us His personal name in Yahweh, and desires a relationship with us.

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Names of God: Yahweh-Saboath

Hello Beloved,

I hope you are enjoying this holiday season as we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The name of God that centers our focus this month is Yahweh-Saboath. This name is a combination of Yahweh, the covenant and personal name of God which He gave to His people, and “saboath,” which means “to assemble or mass together.” The inference related to this type of assembly is that of warfare. “Saboath” would be used when a general would assemble an army together for battle, and God has His armies or “hosts” that He assembles to protect His people. Most literally, the word “saboath” can be used in reference to human, non-human, or heavenly hosts. In Deuteronomy 4:19, Moses uses the concept in relation to a host of stars. In Exodus 12:41, Moses uses the concept to speak of God’s people or a host of people as they exit the land of Egypt. However, the use of “saboath” for angels can be seen in many peculiar incidents. In a vision that was given to the prophet Micaiah, he claims to see the “hosts” or assemblies of angels beside the Lord in heaven. (1 Kings 22:19). Consider the description of the Psalmist as he praises the Lord, “Bless the LORD, O you his angels, you mighty ones who do his word, obeying the voice of his word! Bless the LORD, all his hosts, his ministers, who do his will!” Psalm 103:20-21 (ESV) The hosts of heaven expresses both the heavenly and earthly hosts of the Lord which are organized and placed under God’s sovereign command. Therefore, Yahweh-Saboath means the Lord of hosts.

Though the name “Lord of hosts” specifically conjures up thoughts of God’s control over angel armies, it also emphasizes His supreme control and power over everything both in the material and immaterial universe whether visible or invisible. Further, the name encourages God’s children by reminding them that God has the power and ability to meet their needs beyond anything they could comprehend. For instance, if there is a need for deliverance, then the Lord of hosts, YahwehSaboath, will bring it to pass. If there is a battle with the enemy, Yahweh-Saboath will win the victory. The Lord of hosts is the source of comfort and blessing for His people. When the Bible uses the phrase, “thus says the Lord of hosts,” it is communicating that God’s commands, actions, judgments, and blessings are based on His authority, sovereignty, and power behind His being “the Lord of hosts.” Consider the praise of the seraphim as Isaiah witnessed them praising God, crying to one another “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” Isaiah 6:3 (ESV) Or consider David’s cry before Goliath. The Philistine giant represented the power, might, ingenuity, and strength of worldly type forces, but David in facing Goliath cried out, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” 1 Samuel 17:45 (ESV) During this Christmas season, let us remember the angels who appeared before the Shepherds as Luke states, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!’” Luke 2:13-14 (ESV)Finally,I leave you now with the last words of one of my favorite Psalms, “The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” Psalm 46:11 (ESV)

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

* Resources are from the notes of Jim Smith, professor of Brookes Bible College.

Names of God: Yahweh-Raah

Hello Beloved,

I hope that your preparations for Christmas are going well, and you have been able to stop and reflect on the deep meaning of this season. However, as we continue our study of God and His names, we enter the discussion over the impact of Yahweh-Raah. Like many of the other names we have considered, Yahweh-Raah is a compound name including the covenant name of God, Yahweh, and a form of the word “ro’eh.” The primary meaning of “ro’eh” is to feed or lead to pasture such as with a shepherd for his flock. Sometimes, “ro’eh” is taken in a figurative way to describe the relationship between a ruler and people, priest and people, or prophet and people. Consider the Lord’s promise in Jeremiah, “And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” Jeremiah 3:15 (ESV) Sometimes “ro’eh” is used figuratively to describe folly or judgment (Prov 15:14), and at other times it can be used to express a friend or neighbor in the context of intimately sharing life with another (Ex 33:11).

Most literally, Yahweh-Raah means “the Lord is my Shepherd.” This is one of the most sought names of God because it speaks to the intimacy and care of God, the Shepherd, for His sheep, us. In Psalm 23:1, David said, “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Psalm 23:1 (ESV) Consider the implications as the Lord’s name is inferred in Psalm 80:1, as Asaph writes, “Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock . . .” Psalm 80:1(ESV) Reflect on Israel’s comfort from God’s care and might in Isaiah 40;10-11, “Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young. Isaiah 40:10-11 (ESV) And finally, we contrast the false shepherds of Israel’s leadership who cared only for themselves and scattered God’s flock with the True Shepherd who cares for His sheep. Ezekiel writes:

11 “For thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeks out his flock when he is among his sheep that have been scattered, so will I seek out my sheep, and I will rescue them from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness. 13 And I will bring them out from the peoples and gather them from the countries, and will bring them into their own land. And I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, by the ravines, and in all the inhabited places of the country. 14 I will feed them with good pasture, and on the mountain heights of Israel shall be their grazing land. There they shall lie down in good grazing land, and on rich pasture they shall feed on the mountains of Israel. 15 I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I myself will make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD. Ezekiel 34:11-15 (ESV)

 We can conclude that the name Yahweh-Raah reveals that God is a loving watchful protector and keeper of His people. This name shows that there is an intimacy in the relationship between God and His people. The name also communicates that God meets the needs of His people, and that He comforts them in time of distress and trial.

Finally, we conclude with Christ’s identification as the Good Shepherd, which is a direct connection to God’s name Yahweh-Raah. The Good Shepherd knows His sheep (John 10:15), leads His sheep (John 10:3), and lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). Please consider this truth as we celebrate the babe in a manger who would grow up to be our Good Shepherd.

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

* Resources are from the notes of Jim Smith, professor of Brookes Bible College.

Names of God: Yahweh-Tsidkenu

Hello Beloved,

As we move into the Thanksgiving season, our study of God’s names takes us to the God who is Yahweh-Tsidkenu. This name comes from the compound “Yahweh” and “sadaq,” which connects the covenant name of God with the concept of “stiff” or better yet “straight.” “Sadaq” in the Old Testament also carries the connotation of conforming to a norm or standard.

One may consider “sadaq” or righteousness in relation to personal or interpersonal behavior that conforms to a certain moral or ethical standard, a standard defining right and wrong. According to the Old Testament, there is only one standard by which righteousness is measured: the revealed will of God, which is expressed in the Law. In Old Testament times, when a person was said to be “righteous,” it implied the person’s actions were in harmony with his or her obligations to God as His revelation communicated. In no way did this suggest sinlessness or moral perfection.

One may also consider “sadaq” or righteousness in the sense of rendering fair and equal justice or making something right. In this regard the concept of “sadaq” would relate to right or correct judgment or even God’s vindication.

The name Yahweh-Tsidkenu is found in Jeremiah 23:6. In this passage, Yahweh (The Lord) rebukes the leaders/shepherds of His people Israel and Judah for their lack of care for the people/sheep. Instead of tending God’s sheep, they scattered them. This failure would bring God’s discipline upon the “shepherds” and a care for the remnant of His sheep, as He Himself would Shepherd His flock. God will bring His sheep back, and He will provide for them in such a way that they will be fruitful and multiply. He will set under-shepherds or true leaders over them that will genuinely care for His people. The text goes on to re-emphasize God’s messianic promise by raising up for David a “righteous Branch” who will rule His people wisely by rendering justice and righteousness. Jeremiah prophesies the salvation of God’s people, the Jews specifically, and then he communicates the name of Yahweh-Tsidkenu to add emphasis to this promise. Jeremiah writes, “In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The LORD is our righteousness.’” Jeremiah 23:6 (ESV)

The name of Yahweh-Tsidkenu is directly connected with the title for the Messiah, “the righteous Branch.” Of course, this is a prophecy about Jesus Christ (for Christ means Messiah or anointed one in Greek). This passage is a reminder that men often fail in their leadership roles, which often leads people away from rather than toward God, even sometimes being oppressive in their political policies. However, God’s leadership will be righteous, just, fair, and will result in peace and security. We know that even now, governments and their leaders can be unjust and oppressive, but there will come a time when “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.” Revelation 11:15 (ESV) In God’s millennial and eternal reign under King Jesus, there will be divinely ordered justice and righteousness throughout the earth, which will include the restoration and salvation of Israel. Consider these wonderful truths this Thanksgiving season.

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

* Resources are from the notes of Jim Smith, professor of Brookes Bible College,

Names of God: Yahweh-Shalom

Hello Beloved,

As we move into the Fall season, our study of God’s names takes us to the God who is Yahweh-Shalom. This name comes from the compound “Yahweh” and “shalom.,” which connects the covenant name of God with the concept of peace. “Shalom” in the Old Testament also carries the connotation of wholeness, unity, and harmony, inferring something is complete and sound. One may consider “shalom” in relation to a person by expressing blessing for mental and emotional peace, good health, security, and personal fulfillment. In regard to person-to-person relationships, one could infer that “shalom” expresses harmony and an absence of contention and strife. “Yahweh-Shalom” means “the Lord our peace.” From a Biblical perspective, disobedience to God will disrupt peace. Isaiah states, “But the wicked are like the tossing sea; for it cannot be quiet, and its waters toss up mire and dirt. There is no peace,” says my God, ‘for the wicked.’” Isaiah 57:20-21 (ESV) On the flip side, the Bible communicates that obedience brings peace. Isaiah communicates elsewhere, “Oh that you had paid attention to my commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea.” Isaiah 48:18 (ESV) Further, peace accompanies righteousness. James teaches, “And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” James 3:18 (ESV)

The name of Yahweh-Shalom is found in Judges 6:24. In the context of this passage, the reader finds the nation of Israel in a state of travail and chaos. The enemies of God’s people, the Midianites, had been allowed by God to infiltrate the nation of Israel and cause problems of hunger, discouragement, and stolen resources. The reason for God’s allowance is directly connected to Israel’s disobedience to God’s commands. The problem of Israel was not primarily political, social, or financial, though many would have said that was the case. Israel’s problem was spiritual. In response to the Midianite discipline of Israel, the people cried out to the Lord for deliverance, and He responded by sending an angel to Gideon. After the Lord revealed Himself in a mighty way through this angel, Gideon “built an altar there to the LORD and called it, The LORD Is Peace (Yahweh-Shalom).” Judges 6:24 (ESV) After experiencing the presence of God, Gideon found that peace was near.

The secret to shalom is not always a change in circumstances but a trust in God and a knowledge of His nearness. Jesus stated, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV) It seems like tragedy, chaos, and devastation are all over the news. However, whether considering a volcano erupting on a Spanish island, the return of the Taliban to authority in Afghanistan, the inflation rate which is well over 5%, or the continuous legality of abortions in our nation, one can experience the “shalom” of “Yahweh.” Isaiah reminds his reader, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3 (ESV) Paul helps the child of God to understand that the “shalom” of “Yahweh” is all about mindset. He states, “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.” Romans 8:5-6 (ESV)

Tony Evans illustrates this point claiming,
When the right mindset is followed up with the appropriate action, peace is the outcome (Leviticus 26:3,6; Isaiah 48:18). During daylight savings time, you reset your clock one hour forward. When you turn your clock back one hour in the fall, you wind up with an extra hour of sleep. You don’t have to get up as early as you would have if you had kept the same time. In order to access and enjoy this additional hour of sleep, though, you have to choose to reset your clock. The mind set on the Spirit—that which seeks to align your thoughts underneath God’s point of view—is the mind full of peace. You must set your mind there, as Paul states, or the alarm of life will jolt you up at the wrong time. Choosing where to set your mind, just like choosing when to set your clock, will determine your response. A mind set on God’s presence, just as Gideon’s was, brings life and peace— shalom.  But the mind set on the flesh is set on death. Death is ultimately a separation from God. So the mind set on the human point of view (the world’s perspective) is a carnal mind. It’s a mind that doesn’t bring peace. (Evans, The Power of God’s Names)

 Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

(Material for this newsletter article are taken from the notes of Jim Smith,
Professor of Bible and Theology at Brookes Bible College.)

Names of God: Yahweh-Mekaddish

Hello Beloved,

This month we will continue our study of the compound names of God, focusing on Yahweh-Mekaddish. You may recall, that the personal name of God, Yahweh, relates to the fact that He is the great “I am,” the one who is present. The Hebrew Kadash means to be pure, clean, holy, sacred, consecrated, or dedicated (to be regarded as holy). Of course, God is the perfect example of what it means to be holy for it is reflective of His very nature. The concept of holy is a religious term that can be used not only of persons but of places, times, and things. Any of these entities can be “set apart” from what would be considered in the realm of the common or profane and moved to the sphere of the sacred. This would be in conjunction with those things associated with God. Therefore, the name Yahweh Mekaddish means “the Lord who sanctifies” or makes holy.

Here are the few examples of how the name was used in Scripture. In Exodus 31, the Lord called the Sabbath a sign between Israel and Himself to constantly bring before this people a reminder of the covenant that He made with them. In that covenant, the Lord “set apart” Israel from all the other nations. Moses writes, “You are to speak to the people of Israel and say, ‘Above all you shall keep my Sabbaths, for this is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I, the LORD, sanctify (Yahweh Mekaddish) you” Exodus 31:12-13 (ESV). Further, in Leviticus 21, the priest of Israel was considered holy. He was not permitted to touch the dead except among his closest relatives and he could not marry a divorced woman because Israel “shall sanctify him for he offers the bread of your God. He shall be holy to you, for I, the LORD, who sanctify you (Yahweh Mekaddish), am holy” Leviticus 21:8 (ESV).

As Yahweh-Mekaddish, the Lord had “set apart” Israel or declared them holy as His own possession and they bore a covenant relationship to Him (Exodus 19:5,6; 6:7; Deuteronomy 14:1-2; 7:6; 26:18-19; 28:1,9; Leviticus 20:26; 21:8). Also, today as believers in Jesus Christ, we are chosen by God as His own possession in a special relationship. Titus states that Jesus “gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works” Titus 2:14 (ESV). Peter connects our special relationship to God with our royal priesthood claiming, “you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” 1 Peter 2:9 (ESV). Therefore, as God’s special possession, we are to be holy as God is holy (Leviticus 19:2; 11:44,45; 20:7, 27; 21:8; Exodus 19:6; Matthew 5:48; 1 Peter 1:15,16).

Let us be holy and set apart to the magnificence of God’s purity in this dark world. An appropriate illustration may be found in one author’s illustration of Mrs. Fish’s garden:

There is no path in life so dark but that the Christian graces, growing in the garden of the heart, may make the soul like an oasis in the desert. A former keeper of the Point Pinas Lighthouse, near Monterey, California, was a woman. When Mrs. Fish entered upon the duties of her office, she found the lighthouse a dreary abode, situated as it was far from any neighboring houses upon the gray ocean sands. She at once began transforming it into a more homelike spot. Within she added warm draperies, rare china, and other dainty furnishings. Without she enclosed a large garden, and made it a brilliant, fragrant spot. About its boundaries she planted the native cypress, which is found nowhere else in the world. Behind these sheltering trees she made a broad, velvety lawn, and planted tea-roses, geraniums, and other fragrant flowers. On the warm, sunny days that come in such quick succession there, this garden, only ninety feet above the sea, and overlooking the vast blue Pacific, is one of the prettiest, most romantic, and sightly places on the coast. But more careful than of all else was Mrs. Fish to the great light entrusted to her care. Punctual to the moment the lamp always sent its rays across the water, and as punctually it was extinguished when the stronger light of day appeared. (Bible Illustrations - Practical Bible Illustrations From Yesterday and Today.)

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

(Material for this newsletter article are taken from the notes of Jim Smith,
Professor of Bible and Theology at Brookes Bible College.)

Names of God: Yahweh-Ropheka

Hello Beloved,

As we continue our discussion of the names of God in the Old Testament, we move to the compound name of God: Yahweh-Ropheka. This name comes from the compound of “Yahweh,” the personal and covenant name of God, and “rapha.” The Hebrew “rapha” means to heal diseases of all kinds such as wounds with an outward application. “Rapha” can also be used to describe the healing of a distressed nation or even a single person by a restoration to better circumstances, and “rapha” may refer to healing from a moral perspective by curing the mind or pardoning the soul. Yahweh-Ropheka means “the Lord that heals you.”

In Exodus 15, we have a perfect example for the significance of this name.
22 Then Moses made Israel set out from the Red Sea, and they went into the wilderness of Shur. They went three days in the wilderness and found no water. 23 When they came to Marah, they could not drink the water of Marah because it was bitter; therefore, it was named Marah. 24 And the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” 25 And he cried to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a log, and he threw it into the water, and the water became sweet. There the LORD made for them a statute and a rule, and there he tested them, 26 saying, “If you will diligently listen to the voice of the LORD your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, your healer.” Exodus 15:22-26 (ESV)

Imagine yourself in the situation of the Israelites. They had no water for three days, and then when they found water, it was undrinkable. They needed healing and refreshment. God had a reason for this difficult situation as He does for any we might face. Water was not the problem per se; water was the test. Just three days before Mara, the Lord had provided deliverance from the Egyptian army through a seeming insurmountable body of WATER called the Red Sea. God had already shown that He was greater than any water problem. This problem, like all suffering, teaches us an important principle: God has a plan and a purpose in our pain. The Lord provided a log to sweeten the bitter waters. Unlike the Egyptians, who had their water source turned to blood because of their callous disobedience, the Israelites would enjoy sweet water. The Lord was teaching Israel that from loyalty and obedience to Yahweh come divine protection.  As the Psalmist states, “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases,” Psalm 103:2-3 (ESV). Regarding the Lord, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” Psalm 147:3 (ESV). The Prophet Hosea called God’s people to repentance writing, “Come, let us return to the LORD; for he has torn us, that he may heal us; he has struck us down, and he will bind us up” Hosea 6:1 (ESV).

We all experience broken bodies, broken emotions, and broken circumstances. We all need healing at one time or another in one form or another. Just because we suffer in many ways and face various problems does not mean that we are not experiencing God’s best. You could be experiencing God’s best and not have a job, not have the best health, and you may even be having relational difficulties. The tests that we experience, similar to that of the Israelites at Mara, demonstrate whether we have been paying attention to God and His Word, and they give us opportunity for growth. Remember this precept: the process can be as important as the result. Tony Evans tells the story of a young boy’s curiosity.

The story is told of a young boy who discovered a cocoon in a backyard tree. He studied the cocoon carefully, looking for some sign of life. At last, several days later, the boy saw what he had been waiting for. Inside the filmy shell, a newly formed butterfly was struggling to get out. Filled with compassion for the tiny creature, the boy used his pocket-knife to enlarge the hole. Exhausted, the butterfly tumbled out and lay there. But the boy didn’t realize that the struggle to escape was designed to strengthen the butterfly’s muscles and prepare it for flight. With an act of compassion, the boy had inadvertently crippled and ultimately doomed the butterfly.

Sometimes God ordains difficult circumstances in our lives to strengthen us and deepen our faith. In this, He is our Yahweh-Ropheka. Paul understood this principle. In 2 Corinthians 1:8-20, he writes, “For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again” 2 Corinthians 1:8-10 (ESV).

Until next time this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your you spirit.”

* Resources are from the notes of Jim Smith, professor of Brookes Bible College, and Tony Evans’ The Power of God’s Names.

Names of God: Yahweh-Nissi

Hello Beloved,
As we continue our study on the names of God, we have moved from the compound names revolving around “Elohim” to the compound names revolving around “Yahweh,” God’s personal and covenant name. This week, we will consider in detail the name Yahweh-Nissi. The name comes from the two words “Yahweh” and “nissi.” Nissi originates from the Hebrew word “nes” which is translated “banner” or “standard.” Like many of our flags, the banner was an upraised standard used as a rallying point to call the whole people together to hear some vital message or to assemble and conduct an important action. The name itself means, “the Lord is our banner.”

In the early days of Israel’s wilderness wanderings, a certain group with unethical tactics known as the Amalekites attacked Israel from the rear, picking off those who were stragglers like the weak and elderly (Deut 25:17-18). This of course, was bad form. Israel, in defending itself, fought with the Amalekites. Moses stood on top of a hill, overlooking the battle, with the staff of God in his hand. Whenever Moses lifted his hand, Israel prevailed, but whenever he lowered his hand, the Amalekites prevailed (Ex 17:8-13). The raised hands have often been interpreted as a type of prayer, while the lowered hands would have inferred a ceasing to pray and a ceasing to depend on God for help. Consider the Psalmist who states, “So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.” Psalm 63:4 (ESV)

After a while, Moses grew weary, so his followers put a stone under him while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, both on either side. Because his hands were steady till the going down of the sun, Joshua and Israel overwhelmed the Amalekites (Ex 17:8-13). The Scripture states, “And Moses built an altar and called the name of it, The Lord Is My Banner, saying, ‘A hand upon the throne of the Lord! The Lord will have war with Amalek from generation to generation’” Exodus 17:15–16 (ESV). The significance of this altar and its name reveal that Moses recognized God gave the victory and triumph over Israel’s enemies.

I can remember sitting in the stands for a football or basketball game while attending the University of Arkansas. During the pre-game rallies, the cheerleaders would seek to motivate the crowds and ready them for the game by leading them in a couple of “Whoo pig sooui’s” (Razorbacks were the mascot) or a “fight Arkansas fight.” But at the exact right moment they would bring out the big guns, the Arkansas flag. When the flag was unveiled, usually by a male cheerleader running onto the field or the court and waving it frantically back and forth while the Arkansas fight song played, the crowd was usually whipped into a frenzy, and we were ready to cheer our beloved Hogs on to victory.

Too often, as Christians, we forget that we do not fight for victory but from victory. Christ gained our victory on the cross. This same Lord who gained us the victory over the power of sin and death can also empower us by His spirit to live the victorious Christian life no matter what our circumstances. So let us remember when we feel weak and vulnerable, as Moses did, our Yahweh-Nissi, or that the Lord is our banner.

Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

*Material for this newsletter article are taken from the notes of Jim Smith,
Professor of Bible and Theology at Brookes Bible College.