Israel

Last week I finished the 18-CD series on Israel from Tom Nelson of Denton Bible Church. I gotta tell you - it's an eye-opener! It's truly amazing how the *whole* of the Good News and every foundational doctrine is so clearly laid out throughout the Old Testament. Just studying the Hebrew Scriptures one can clearly see election, salvation by grace ALONE, the sufficiency of Scripture, and so much more.

Another thing Tom expounded on was not just the repetitive nature of God's dealings with Israel - blessing - rebellion - judgement - repentance - blessing . . . but He also delved into the WHY - what the rebellion was, what particular rebellions brought on particular judgements. Moreover, he noted similarities in the rebellion of America - fortunately for us, God is amazingly patient. Judgement is coming, however. Most assuredly, if we do not turn our hearts toward Him.

He also brought it down to the individual - because how God deals with the nations is how God deals with individuals. His teaching has been emphasized by the teaching I've been getting at church recently too - the particular subject of Hell, Who's going there and Why. There are those - many, unfortuntately - who will in the day of judgement cry out, "Lord, Lord did we not do" this or that "in Your Name?" and He will say "Depart from Me, I never knew you!" Because it is not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy, He saved us. Moreover, He does not save just because someone "believes" in Him - "the demons also believe - and tremble." He saves because the faith He grants generates belief that results in SUBMISSION to Himself as LORD. This is taught from Genesis on.