Message Magazine’s Online Devotional for Sabbath, September 26, 2015
Today’s Scripture:
“And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Acts 17:10–11).
Critical Object Lesson for Your Sabbath:
Today, I need to do something very special to enhance our continued review of the Revelation: I am not going to expound today’s theme text as I would usually, but rather share a valuable principle revealed there. The Bible says that there were a group of believers to whom Paul and Silas were sent to share the Scriptures. The interesting thing that set them apart from some others was their approach to Bible study. They were more noble, because they readily received the Word of God, and believed only what they could support having searched the Scriptures for themselves. This attitude is very important, especially when unpacking the Revelation of Jesus Christ.
In yesterday’s devotional thought, I made reference to the thought that the seven trumpets indicated judgments following the sealing of God’s people, due to their stark similarities to the seven last plagues in Revelation 15-16, and the timing that seems to be referenced in the text. As I was praying and preparing for future devotionals on the trumpets, it occurred to me that there are many who believe, and have historically taught that the seven trumpets span a period of time over the course of history very similar to the seven churches and seals. Thus, it is critical that all of us students of the Bible remain prayerful, humble, teachable, and submissive as we continue to learn. We, like the Bereans must search the Scriptures to see whether our thoughts line up with what the Lord has revealed. This is my attitude toward Bible study.
I would love to share an issue of an international journal for pastors, Ministry, which was published in January, 2012. There you will find a more traditional approach to the seven trumpets with a bit of commentary on various views. Here’s the link: https://www.ministrymagazine.org/archiv…/2012/MIN2012-01.pdf I would love to know your thoughts.
While there may be varying views on these trumpets, and where they occur in history, the principle we shared concerning God’s love and mercy preceding His judgments is absolute. As I said multiple times yesterday, God never sends judgments to humankind without first warning us, and then giving us protection if we are willing to follow His instructions.
Conclusion:
Whenever we approach the Scriptures, we must continue to ask the Holy Spirit for understanding, and He will surely give it. Keep studying and praying. There is immense blessing awaiting you.
A Prayer for Your Hearts:
Lord, please give us all a teachable spirit. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen
