Matt. 27
What was the significance of the temple curtain being torn from top to bottom? What does this mean for your relationship with God? (See Hebrews 10:19-25) “All the people answered, ‘His blood is on us and on our children!’” (Matt. 27:225). I wonder if any who uttered those words ever realized the irony in them! It is Jesus’ blood “on us” that gives us forgiveness of our sins and brings us into the presence of God. This was demonstrated by the tearing of the temple curtain at His death. As it says in Hebrews 10:19-20, “we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, His body”.
Jesus’ blood is on all of us, because we are all guilty of sin. We are no different than the ones shouting “crucify Him” or the soldier driving the nails. We all bear responsibility for His death. However, if we recognize the way that was opened for us because of the shedding of His blood, then that very blood removes our guilt. Who but God could turn our sin into salvation in such an amazing way?
Josh. 1-2
Rahab is listed as a hero of faith (Hebrews 11:31). Describe her faith and the actions that resulted from it. (James 2:14-26) How does your faith demonstrate itself? Rahab, though not an Israelite, somehow heard of God’s intentions to destroy her city. She recognized that she was doomed to destruction. In doing so, she acknowledged God for who He is and humbly looked to Him, through the opportunity He provided her, for salvation.
Our path to salvation is the same as Rahab’s. We must recognize that we are doomed and powerless to save ourselves. Then we must humbly acknowledge God for who He is and that He alone can save us. Finally, we must faithfully take in, trust, and obey His Son, whom He sent to provide a way out for us. When we do these things we, like Rahab, become a part of God’s family and a part of His plan.
Prov. 8
Practically, what would it look like to value wisdom more than wealth? True understanding recognizes that without wisdom there is no real wealth. It also recognizes that wisdom does not come from ourselves. “The LORD brought [wisdom] forth as the first of His works, before His deeds of old” (Prov. 8:22). So wisdom is found in Christ, whom God gives freely to all who ask.
Therefore, I don’t think valuing wisdom more than wealth is quite the right expression. I think it is valuing wisdom as the source of true wealth. “With [wisdom] are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity.” (Prov. 8:18). What that means practically is not putting your focus on and pursuing things that appear like wealth but really aren’t. I don’t mean that wealth is bad, I just mean it isn’t our purpose. Instead, as King Solomon did in the beginning, we should concern ourselves with seeking God so that He can give us the wisdom to live our lives and meet our responsibilities to others in a way that honors Him. If God then entrusts us with material riches in this life or offers us less tangible blessings on a more meager path, nothing changes in the way we live.