And look at what has happened to the word “prophet” in some places.

Because of counterfeits, manipulation and abuse of spiritual titles, genuine voices can sometimes be viewed with suspicion.

The counterfeit has damaged the reputation of the genuine.

But the answer is not to abandon the truth.

The answer is to return to Scripture.
https://youtu.be/lZcwmkQ3_sI?si=8pPW7jhJeQ2Xe4CV

Today's Readings are from the Book of 1 Chronicles 5–6 | Ephesians 5

Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading)

1 Chronicles 5

Faith, Failure, and the God Who Gives Victory

1 Chronicles 5 records the genealogies and history of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. These tribes settled east of the Jordan River because the land was suitable for their livestock. Although the chapter contains many names, it presents a clear spiritual contrast between trusting God in battle and later abandoning Him through idolatry.

The chapter begins with Reuben, Jacob’s firstborn son. Because of his sin, however, the privileges of the firstborn were divided among others. Joseph received the birthright, while Judah became the tribe from which the ruler would come. This reveals that spiritual privilege carries responsibility. Position alone cannot replace obedience and godly character.

The mention of Judah’s leadership is especially important. Although the chapter focuses on the eastern tribes, it reminds readers that the promised ruler would come from Judah. God was already directing Israel’s history toward David and ultimately toward the Messiah.

The tribes east of the Jordan became strong and numerous. When they faced powerful enemies, they cried out to God during the battle. The Lord answered them because they trusted Him. Their victory did not come merely from their military skill, organization, or numbers. God gave the enemy into their hands because the battle belonged to Him.

This moment demonstrates the power of dependence upon the Lord. These warriors prepared responsibly, but their confidence was ultimately placed in God. Faith did not eliminate action; it directed their action and gave them confidence that the Lord was fighting on their behalf.
Sadly, the chapter does not end with victory. Over time, these same tribes became unfaithful to the God of their fathers and pursued the false gods of the surrounding nations. The people who once cried out to God in dependence gradually turned away from Him in compromise.

As a result, the Lord allowed foreign kings to carry them into exile. Their military strength could not protect them once they abandoned the God who had given them victory. The chapter shows that past faithfulness does not guarantee future faithfulness. Every generation must continue walking with the Lord.

Theologically, 1 Chronicles 5 reveals that victory comes through faith and dependence upon God, while spiritual compromise eventually leads to loss. The Lord responds to those who cry out to Him, but He also disciplines His people when they persistently abandon His covenant.

This chapter points to Christ, the promised Ruler from the tribe of Judah. Unlike Israel’s earthly warriors, Jesus won the ultimate battle through perfect obedience to the Father. Through His death and resurrection, He defeated sin, death, and every spiritual enemy. All who trust in Him share in His victory.
For believers today, 1 Chronicles 5 reminds us not to rely upon past victories, spiritual heritage, or personal strength. We must continue trusting the Lord in every battle and guarding our hearts against compromise. In Christ, we have a victorious King who hears us when we call upon Him and gives us strength to remain faithful. The battle belongs to the Lord, but we are called to walk in continual dependence, obedience, and trust.

1 Chronicles 6

Called to Worship and Serve in God’s Presence

1 Chronicles 6 focuses on the tribe of Levi, the family appointed by God to serve in connection with the tabernacle, the temple, the priesthood, and the worship of Israel. While the previous chapters trace royal and tribal lines, this chapter emphasizes the spiritual leadership that God established among His people.

The genealogy traces the priestly line from Levi through Aaron and eventually to those who served before and after the exile. These records confirm that priestly service was not based upon personal ambition or human appointment. God called and established those who would minister before Him.
Aaron’s descendants carried the responsibility of offering sacrifices and ministering at the altar. Their service reminded Israel that sinful people could not approach a holy God casually. Sacrifice, cleansing, mediation, and obedience were necessary because God is holy.

The chapter also gives attention to the Levites who served through music and worship. David appointed singers to minister before the Lord, and their service became an important part of Israel’s spiritual life. Worship was not treated as an afterthought. It was organized, intentional, and centered upon the greatness of God.

Different Levite families received different responsibilities. Some served as priests, others as singers, gatekeepers, assistants, or caretakers of sacred things. No single family performed every task. God distributed responsibilities so that His people would serve together in unity.

This reveals that ministry is both spiritual and practical. Public worship depends upon many faithful servants fulfilling responsibilities that others may never notice. God values every role when it is performed with humility and faithfulness.

The chapter also records the cities assigned to the Levites throughout Israel. Rather than receiving one large territory, the Levites were scattered among the tribes. Their presence reminded the entire nation of God’s Word, worship, and covenant. Spiritual instruction was intended to influence every part of Israel’s life.

Yet the priesthood and sacrificial system were never the final answer to humanity’s sin. The priests themselves were imperfect and needed sacrifices for their own sins. Their ministry pointed beyond itself toward a greater Priest who would provide a complete and lasting sacrifice.

Theologically, 1 Chronicles 6 reveals God’s holiness and His gracious provision for worship. He appoints priests, establishes sacrifice, orders ministry, and gives His people a way to approach His presence. The chapter also demonstrates that every form of service matters within the work of God.

This chapter points directly to Jesus Christ, our perfect High Priest. Unlike the descendants of Aaron, Jesus is sinless and serves forever. He did not repeatedly offer animal sacrifices but offered Himself once for all. Through His finished work, believers receive forgiveness and direct access to the Father.
For believers today, 1 Chronicles 6 reminds us that worship and service must remain central in our lives. Every believer has been called to serve according to the gifts and responsibilities God provides. Some roles are visible, while others are performed quietly, but every faithful act contributes to the work of God’s kingdom.

In Christ, we are brought near to God and made part of a royal priesthood. We no longer depend upon an earthly priest to enter God’s presence on our behalf because Jesus has opened the way. Our response should be lives of worship, holiness, gratitude, and faithful service to the One who has redeemed us.

Ephesians 5 — Walking in Love, Light, and Wisdom Through the Christ

Ephesians chapter 5 continues Paul's practical instruction by describing what it means to live as those who have been transformed by the Christ, the Son of God. Building upon the call to put off the old way of life, this chapter presents three defining characteristics of Christian living: walking in love, walking in light, and walking in wisdom. Each of these is rooted in the believer's relationship with the Christ and reflects God's redemptive plan at work in everyday life.

The chapter begins by calling believers to imitate God as His beloved children. This imitation is seen most clearly in love. The Christ demonstrated perfect love by willingly giving Himself for the salvation of humanity. His sacrificial love becomes both the foundation and the model for Christian living. The redemptive plan is centered on the self-giving love of the Son of God, and believers are called to reflect that same love in their relationships with others.

Paul then contrasts this Christlike love with the sinful attitudes and behaviors that belong to the old life. Greed, impurity, selfishness, and corrupt speech are inconsistent with the new identity believers have received in the Christ. Christian living is marked by holiness because the Son of God has called His people to reflect His character. The redemptive plan transforms both the heart and the conduct of those who belong to Him.

The chapter next describes believers as children of light. Having been rescued from spiritual darkness through the Christ, they are now called to live in a way that reflects truth, righteousness, and goodness. Light exposes what is hidden and reveals what pleases God. Christian living therefore requires discernment, continually choosing what honors the Son of God rather than conforming to the values of the world.

Paul encourages believers to use their time wisely because the days are spiritually challenging. Rather than living carelessly, they are to seek the will of the Lord in every circumstance. The redemptive plan gives purpose to every moment of life. The Christ calls His followers to invest their lives in what has eternal value, recognizing that each day presents opportunities to glorify Him.

The chapter also emphasizes the importance of being continually filled with the Holy Spirit. Instead of seeking satisfaction in temporary pleasures, believers are called to live under the Spirit's influence. This produces worship, gratitude, encouragement, and joyful obedience. Christian living is sustained by the continual work of the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to reflect the life of the Son of God.

Paul then turns to relationships within the home, particularly marriage. He presents marriage as a living picture of the relationship between the Christ and His Church. Husbands are called to love sacrificially, following the example of the Son of God who gave Himself for His people. Wives are called to respond with respect and willing support. This relationship reflects God's redemptive plan by displaying the love, unity, and faithfulness that exist between the Christ and His redeemed people.

The chapter concludes by elevating the significance of marriage beyond human companionship. Marriage becomes a testimony to the gospel itself. Just as the Christ lovingly cares for, nourishes, and sanctifies His Church, believers are called to reflect His character in their homes and relationships. Christian living demonstrates the reality of the gospel not only in public ministry but also in the ordinary rhythms of daily life.

Throughout Ephesians chapter 5, the Christ remains the perfect example of love, holiness, wisdom, and sacrificial leadership. Every instruction flows from His character and points believers back to His finished work. The redemptive plan transforms every area of life, enabling God's people to walk in a manner worthy of the calling they have received.

For believers today, this chapter reminds us that our lives should continually reflect the character of the Christ. Christian living means walking in sacrificial love, shining as children of light, living wisely, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide every decision. Whether in our worship, our relationships, or our daily responsibilities, we are called to display the beauty of the Son of God. As we follow His example and depend upon His grace, our lives become living testimonies of His transforming power and His eternal redemptive plan.

#DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

Our BIBLE TRIVIA ANSWER for today is............................

According to Acts 23:24, who was Paul to be brought safely to?

The Answer: B. Felix the governor

#LordsbookDailys #DailyBibleTrivia #BibleQuiz #BibleTriviaAnswer

Our BIBLE TRIVIA ANSWER for today is............................

According to Acts 23:11, what did the Lord tell Paul to do?

The Answer: C. Be of good cheer

#LordsbookDailys #DailyBibleTrivia #BibleQuiz #BibleTriviaAnswer

Three Angels Broadcasting Network Devotional.
Now I Know Why

By Idalia Dinzey

September 1st, 2026

“And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.” John 12:34

Can TV programs really affect the mind of a child and change the course of their life? I can answer that question with an experience from my childhood.

I was somewhere between seven and eight years of age, and it was Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Puerto Rico. I was home with my three brothers as we watched a movie on TV called, Jesus of Nazareth. I remember watching the portrayal of Jesus’ life —how He became man to help us learn about our Heavenly Father, and how He was betrayed by one of His disciples who delivered Him into His enemy’s hands. Judas believed and knew that Jesus could put a stop to everything and get away…but He didn’t!

As I watched, the movie took a painful turn, and suddenly, Jesus was being beaten! It was so heartbreaking that I ran to the screen and hugged it!

“Oh Jesus, why?” I wept, even as my brothers yelled at me to get out of the way so they could watch. They didn’t understand what was happening inside of me. I ran to my room and sobbed into my pillow, “Why did you let them do that to you Jesus? Why? Why? Why?”

I still cry as I read, hear, or watch anything about Christ’s ultimate sacrifice; but I no longer ask why, because I know why. And I’ve never let go that memory, and for a good reason. What I watched decades ago has remained in my heart and fueled my desire to teach our children about their salvation at an early age.

I thank God for a mother who brought us up to love the Lord and be of service to Him. And I certainly never thought I’d be working with a television network that explains the “why’s” of Jesus to children, as well as adults. I know there are children whose parents don’t speak English, Spanish or Portuguese – the languages on 3ABN English and 3ABN Latino networks. But they are increasingly being taught English as an international language, and we shouldn’t underestimate the influence they’ll have as they translate our programs for their families.

Television and radio can change lives for the good, and Bible truths bring about a sure change for the best! I’m so thankful for all who take a stand in supporting Jesus’ coming to our world to draw all men to Him. Our children and our homes have been blessed because of you!

Present Truth # 1
God's Letter to You

Heaven's Pledge - Our Assurance
At some stage in life, individuals question their existence and purpose in life. A young mind generally has hopes and aspirations for the future. A discontented or discouraged mind finds it hard to accept a purpose or reason for life. Then there are the lonely, the empty, the unhappy. How can your life become more fulfilling, healthy, interesting? What lies after death? Is it possible to receive eternal life? Human hearts of every walk of life question the uncertain, yet desire an answer to satisfy their needs of security and contentment. No doubt at times such questions enter your mind. Are there answers to life's vital questions? Where can you find them? We all have some beliefs or ideas, but how accurate are they? No book ever written reveals so well the answer to these and many other fundamental questions except the Holy Bible. It reveals how life can be lived and enjoyed to the fullest. This is a promise.

Who Wrote the Bible?
Some critics have claimed that the Bible is only a book written by ordinary men, and therefore is just like any other book. The first part of this assertion is partly true but the latter is false. Yes, the book was written by men, but they had one different characteristic to most authors.

“ . . . holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21.

God selected righteous men to pen His messages. They were not naturally creative writers, but events and messages were recorded as they were revealed and inspired by the Holy Spirit. Visions and thoughts were received and these holy men, knowing these were from God, faithfully wrote in their own language what they were shown.

Thus there is a variety of style and of expression in the Bible, but no contradictions. There is a common theme throughout the collection of writings and a unity of beliefs.

“The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.” 2 Samuel 23:2.

No one was entrusted to write God’s sacred messages without receiving divine assistance.

Actually the Bible is a compendium of books and its real Author is the Almighty. Throughout all these sacred writings is the theme of salvation from sin and its consequences, if we accept God's provisions and counsels.

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.

The Scriptures also tell us of God and His loving character. “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39.

Divisions
Sixty-six books were written by nearly 40 writers during a period of approximately 1,600 years. Thirty-nine of the books constitute what is known as the Old Testament and twenty-seven comprise the New Testament. Whenever Jesus referred to Scripture, He quoted the Old Testament (the New Testament had not yet been written).

The Old Testament has three major sections. Jesus said, “. . . These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.” Luke 24:44.

“The law of Moses” refers to the first five books of the Bible. They were written by Moses and are often referred to as “the law,” because they contain all the laws that were given to ancient Israel. The ceremonial laws were symbolic and terminated at the cross. But there is far more to “Moses” than just the ceremonial system. Primarily it consists of the doctrines and principles of establishing God's church on earth. First there is the moral law as given by God Himself, then nature's laws, health, and doctrines of order and organization.

“The prophets” refer to all the prophetic books. Some books in other classifications also have prophetic sections but, for ease of identification, each book is only placed in one category. For instance, Jesus used this type of terminology when talking with two disciples who were traveling to Emmaus after Jesus' resurrection: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27.

One of the most compelling tests of the authenticity of the Scriptures is the evidence of prophecy, for true prophecy is the recording of history in advance. Many of the prophecies of the Bible were written hundreds of years before their fulfilment, others are occurring now, some refer to our future. So important is prophecy that God challenges anyone to accurately predict the future in detail as He does.

“Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob. Let them bring them forth, and shew us what shall happen: let them shew the former things, what they be, that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them; or declare us things for to come. Shew the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods; yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together.” Isaiah 41:21-23.

“Psalms” or poetry. The poetical books are Job, the Song of Solomon, and the Psalms. Some translations of the Bible record all the poetical sections in poetical format rather than prose. Although the meter is lost in translation from the original language, the beauty, majesty and pathos of the poetry of the Bible is still apparent and may be readily appreciated.

The Power and Purpose of the Bible
The power of God's word is demonstrated in many ways. When we scan the heavens and behold the sun, moon, planets and the myriads of stars, all orbiting their appointed trajectory through the immense expanse of space, we are witnessing the power of the Word of God!

“By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalm 33:6, 9.

Yet a still greater power is contained in the living Word. Jesus, the son of God said, “. . . the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63. What is this power? What is its purpose?

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12.

“The word” has within itself power, deep, abiding, and eternal. It leads us to see ourselves as we really are. It searches our inmost failures and yearnings, and provides the power to raise us from the lowest degradation. It has power which is able to make and keep men right, something we cannot do for ourselves. The Bible is able to transform our character and to make each person radiant, joyous, and full of hope.

The Psalmist testified of this marvelous transforming power: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Psalm 119:11.

How long will the word of God endure? Christ declared: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” Matthew 24:35.

Comparing the short life span of man with the Word of God, the apostle Peter wrote: “For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the word of the Lord endureth forever . . . ” 1 Peter 1:24, 25.

On the midst of all the turmoil and strife of this present age, the Bible stands as an immovable, unchangeable beacon, with its light pointing to the true haven. It is a teacher and counselor of the highest order.

Can Everyone Understand the Bible?
For centuries it has been claimed by the clergy that the Bible should not be read by lay members because only learned theologians are able to interpret its doctrines. This withholding of the Scriptures from the people resulted in an intellectual, spiritual, and moral decline known, today, as the “Dark Ages.” “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6.

Contrary to the stated belief of “the clergy,” “the entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalm 119:130.

Therefore, the Word of God is not only for intellectuals to understand, but if studied and obeyed, it will ennoble and elevate the humble searcher for truth, whatever his station in life. Christ declared that God's Word was more readily understood by those of open minds “babies” in trusting and absorbing just what God says, than by those who claim to be “wise.”

“At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.” Matthew 11:25.

Often men of considerable learning, whether secular or theological, are too proud to admit wrong and thus disqualify themselves from understanding the truth of God. This is clearly illustrated in the Bible by the attitude of the learned scribes and Pharisees toward the teachings and person of Christ. Although they had theoretical knowledge, they could not accept the truth being presented to them.

The Lord sees those who are humbly seeking for truth: “. . . to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isaiah 66:2.

As we have read before, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God.” In other words, the “Spirit of God” gave the messages to the various writers. In order to understand the Word of God aright, we need this same Spirit to guide our mind when we read the Bible.

“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13.

The written Word of God is God's voice speaking to us. It should always be treated with respect and should be studied with genuine desire to understand truth and its messages. Time spent searching the Scriptures should be regarded as time being spent in contact with the Divine. Therefore, before opening your Bible always pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance and believe that you will be directed and taught aright.

Why Are There So Many Different Interpretations of the Bible?
This question is often asked by skeptics as an argument that the Bible is unreliable. But are they right? What is the key to true understanding?

One reason is given by the apostle Peter: “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2 Peter 3:16.

In addition the Bible reproves sin and lays open the hidden secrets of the heart. This is not agreeable to our human nature which seeks to obscure the Scripture's plain explanations. The apostle Paul prophesied: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, have itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3, 4.

It is impossible to come to a right understanding of the Bible if our hearts are not changed, because sinful human nature is opposed to the Spirit of God. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14.

Today men are eagerly seeking for personal advantage. For the sake of gaining riches, honor or power, they place the maxims, traditions and requirements of men above the requirements of God. From such the treasures of God's word are hidden.

Obedience is one key to a true understanding of the Scriptures. “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:17.

The Theme of Bible Inspiration
Many books have a central figure around which the story is woven. The Bible too has a central person in both the Old and New Testaments. Jesus said: "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39.

When conversing with the two disciples on the way to Emmaus after His resurrection, Jesus explained this vital truth to them: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” Luke 24:27.

Will There Always Be Opportunity to Study God's Word?
Many people put off searching the Scriptures until they retire, or to some other time in the future. But they are making a fatal mistake!

“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it. In that day shall the fair virgins and young men faint for thirst.” Amos 8:11-13.

This wonderful book—the Bible—will soon be of no use for men. There will be no more opportunities to understand it or to obey its teachings. The Holy Spirit will not then be available to help people know the truth. Nevertheless, today we still have opportunity. There is still time to become acquainted with God's plan for us.

Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference.

Gods Creation,100 / evolution, 0
THE INCREDIBLE DESIGN OF PILOT WHALE SKIN

Ships traveling through the ocean have to be regularly cleaned because barnacles attach themselves to the hull. If enough build up, they create drag and reduce the ship’s efficiency.

Whales can have the same problem. Barnacles are commonly seen clinging to the skin of several whale species, sometimes in large numbers. Some barnacles are even specially adapted for life attached to whales.

But pilot whales are remarkably free of them.

Researchers studying pilot whale skin discovered that part of the answer may be found at the microscopic level. The skin contains tiny pores surrounded by structures called nanoridges. Along with these structures, the skin produces a gel-like material with antifouling and antimicrobial properties.

Together, these features make it difficult for barnacle larvae to establish a secure grip while also helping protect the skin from microorganisms.

Human engineers have taken notice. Researchers have studied pilot whale skin for ideas that could lead to better antifouling surfaces for ships, potentially preventing barnacles from attaching in the first place.

Think about that. Intelligent engineers face a difficult problem, discover that a whale already has an effective solution, study how it works, and then deliberately try to copy it.

We recognize intelligence when humans imitate the system, yet we're told the original arose through unguided evolutionary processes.

From a biblical perspective, there is no mystery about why nature contains engineering that repeatedly inspires our own. The creatures filling our oceans are the workmanship of a Creator whose wisdom far exceeds our own.

“O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.” — Psalm 104:24

PROVERB OF THE DAY

(Proverbs 1)

1. The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:

2. To know wisdom and instruction,
To perceive the words of understanding,

3. To receive the instruction of wisdom,
Justice, judgment, and equity;

4. To give prudence to the simple,
To the young man knowledge and discretion—

5. A wise man will hear and increase learning,
And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,

6. To understand a proverb and an enigma,
The words of the wise and their riddles.

7. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

8. My son, hear the instruction of your father,
And do not forsake the law of your mother;

9. For they will be a graceful ornament on your head,
And chains about your neck.

10. My son, if sinners entice you,
Do not consent.

11. If they say, “Come with us,
Let us lie in wait to shed blood;
Let us lurk secretly for the innocent without cause;

12. Let us swallow them alive like Sheol,
And whole, like those who go down to the Pit;

13. We shall find all kinds of precious possessions,
We shall fill our houses with spoil;

14. Cast in your lot among us,
Let us all have one purse”—

15. My son, do not walk in the way with them,
Keep your foot from their path;

16. For their feet run to evil,
And they make haste to shed blood.

17. Surely, in vain the net is spread
In the sight of any bird;

18. But they lie in wait for their own blood,
They lurk secretly for their own lives.

19. So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain;
It takes away the life of its owners.

20. Wisdom calls aloud outside;
She raises her voice in the open squares.

21. She cries out in the chief concourses,
At the openings of the gates in the city
She speaks her words:

22. “How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity?
For scorners delight in their scorning,
And fools hate knowledge.

23. Turn at my rebuke;
Surely I will pour out my spirit on you;
I will make my words known to you.

24. Because I have called and you refused,
I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded,

25. Because you disdained all my counsel,
And would have none of my rebuke,

26. I also will laugh at your calamity;
I will mock when your terror comes,

27. When your terror comes like a storm,
And your destruction comes like a whirlwind,
When distress and anguish come upon you.

28. “Then they will call on me, but I will not answer;
They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me.

29. Because they hated knowledge
And did not choose the fear of the LORD,

30. They would have none of my counsel
And despised my every rebuke.

31. Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way,
And be filled to the full with their own fancies.

32. For the turning away of the simple will slay them,
And the complacency of fools will destroy them;

33. But whoever listens to me will dwell safely,
And will be secure, without fear of evil.”

21:23-27

At any point in scripture when Jesus is asked a question it is rarely for the purposes of receiving an answer. Sometimes there are those who genuinely want an answer, sometimes asking the question is a distraction to the one being asked. And there are no examples of the Pharisees asking a genuine question in a sincere desire to come to a knowledge of the truth.

There is always an ulterior motive for a Pharisee asking questions of Jesus and here it is no different. Jesus has cleansed the temple for a second time, has brought healing to the region and is condemning their work in making the temple a business. Jesus is disrupting the day to day business model of the temple.

So the Pharisees ask him, “by what authority do you do this?” Note it wasn't to get an answer. They asked for the express purpose of trapping Jesus in an answer. They were painfully aware of where Jesus believed His authority to originate from.

The question Jesus asks them is even more telling. Not because they didn't know the answer but because they were afraid of what response their answer would have. At this point in Jesus's ministry, John the Baptist is a memory. So when Jesus asks them about John's ministry, He knows they won't answer honestly.

Jesus knew their reasoning would be this way. They were more concerned over the people's reaction to their answer than they were the actual answer being correct. Was John's ministry from Heaven or men?

And they couldn't answer for fear. So they took the cowards way out and lied. We don't know, they said. So Jesus doesn't bother trying to justify an answer for them. No answer will fully satisfy them, because any answer that doesn't fit their agenda is summarily dismissed without thought.

There is only One from whom the authority to do these things would be readily accepted. The answer to their question is the same answer to Jesus's question and they knew it. Only God could grant this authority and they knew this but were not permitted to acknowledge it. This is yet again another proof for Matthew supporting the diety of Jesus as the Messiah.




[23] When He entered the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to Him while He was teaching, and said, “By what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?” [24] But Jesus responded and said to them, “I will also ask you one question, which, if you tell Me, I will also tell you by what authority I do these things. [25] The baptism of John was from what source: from heaven or from men?” And they began considering the implications among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ [26] But if we say, ‘From men,’ we fear the people; for they all regard John as a prophet.” [27] And answering Jesus, they said, “We do not know.” He also said to them, “Neither am I telling you by what authority I do these things.

True faith praises Him before the answer comes.

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