2 Kings 16:
As a new king rules a new type of evil invades the people of God. Ahaz acted in all the same was as many of his predecessors did…worshipping Idols, sacrificing to Molech and generally rebelling totally against the Word of the Lord but Ahaz added yet another evil. He made a one sided treaty with the King of Assyria which slowly but surely stripped Israel of its national, spiritual and financial treasures. Throughout this chapter we find items from the Temple, utensils, decorations and treasures being systematically removed and yet the position of Israel is not strengthened. This is an illustration of what agreement with the world will lead to. It does not lead to strength but will lead to compromise and devaluing of all the Lord has built and secured in your life! The only agreement we should ever make is with the One who cares for us and has our best interests at heart!
Acts 9:
The tide of testimony changes again with the conversion of Saul. No-one (especially Saul) expected such a transformation. His powerful encounter upon the road, his blinding, conversion, healing at the hands of Ananias and the Words of the Lord spoken to him revolutionise and catapult his ministry into the unsuspecting world. Within weeks he is standing in Jerusalem testifying regarding Jesus and the calling that He had given to him. This is a powerful encouragement to the Church and the challenge to ‘change the world’ seems more accessible. Boldness adds to boldness and faith to faith, it is as though the accelerator has been pressed harder and the speed things happen increases. We see more miracles and yet more joy, boldness and vision as the Holy Spirit guides His faithful Church!
Jeremiah 52:
The last chapter of Jeremiah is a historical recap on the whole content of the book. We have outlined the reason for the fall of Israel (the sin of the King and its people) the siege against Babylon, the famine, the fall of the walls, the destruction of the Temple and the captivity of the people. 4600 people taken away into the land and the nation is left desolate with just a remnant remaining. The matter-of-fact manner of this last chapter suggests that Jeremiah is overwhelmed that the people completely ignored his warnings and the multitude of messages the Lord entrusted to him. He must have felt in some respects that he had failed but the contrary is actually true. He had been called to be the mouthpiece of God and he had performed that role without error. He stands as an illustration of how we need must be prepared to stand our ground even in the midst of evil. Jeremiah was a true champion!
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