Today’s reading: Num 14:1–45, John 19:17–42, Ps 14:1–15:5

Today’s theme: The finished work

Today we read the account of Jesus’ crucifixion, suffering and death. This was itself a finished work for the redemption of all God’s elect people, from all nations, tribes, tongues and times, in accordance with God’s plan. As sad as this story is, we know it is not the end of the story and that God was in control through it all, brining His purpose for salvation to pass.

Numbers 14:1–45

God’s glory as a shield

Then all the congregation said to stone them with stones. But the glory of the LORD appeared at the tent of meeting to all the people of Israel. Numbers 14:10 (ESV)

God’s glory was like a shield to faithful Joshua and Caleb. As we stand in faith declaring the truth, God’s glory will be our rear guard. Isa 58:8

Pray the Word

Please pardon the iniquity of this people, according to the greatness of your steadfast love, just as you have forgiven this people, from Egypt until now.” Numbers 14:19 (ESV)

Moses appealed to God’s word (17-18) and to God’s character when interceding for the people. We should use God’s word when we pray also.

Caleb, an example

But my servant Caleb, because he has a different spirit and has followed me fully, I will bring into the land into which he went, and his descendants shall possess it. Numbers 14:24 (ESV)

Caleb is a great example for all of us, as God’s servants.

John 19:17–42

Jesus crucified

There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. John 19:18 (ESV)

This is a verse to stop and think about. Jesus suffered greatly because of His love for His Father and for humanity. To put these few words in perspective, hear the following from D A Carson…

“Stripped naked and beaten to pulpy weakness (cf. notes on v. 1), the victim could hang in the hot sun for hours, even days. To breathe, it was necessary to push with the legs and pull with the arms to keep the chest cavity open and functioning. Terrible muscle spasm wracked the entire body; but since collapse meant asphyxiation, the strain went on and on.” Carson, D. A. (1991). The Gospel according to John (p. 610).

God’s plan

After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” John 19:28 (ESV)

Jesus was in complete control of His death, it was all a part of God’s plan.

A finished work

When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:30 (ESV)

Jesus’ work on the cross is finished and fully completed. Roman Catholics are wrong in saying that He is crucified again at every communion, or that works must be done to make up for what Jesus has not done.

Psalm 14:1–15:5

Fools!

The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds, there is none who does good. Psalm 14:1 (ESV)

Atheism is the height of foolishness, the logical mind knows everything could not have come from nothing. Common sense tells us there is a God who created and sustains the Universe.

Sin is universal

They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one. Psalm 14:3 (ESV)

Paul addresses this in Romans when he makes plain the universality of sin.

Called to sanctification

who does not put out his money at interest and does not take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be moved. Psalm 15:5 (ESV)

We are very much called to sanctification, holy living, walking in faith, love  and self-sacrifice. We cannot think of God’s grace aside from this.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014.

Additional resources

CARM on Atheism