Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for February 15, 2015
“The Way Back Home” Nehemiah 9:1-38 Bible Study 02/15/15
In the book of Nehemiah, much attention is focused on the return of exiles to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of its walls. As important as this physical return and rebuilding is, Nehemiah also addresses a matter of far greater significance-the return and restoration of a chronically unfaithful people to a consistently faithful God. Nehemiah 9 contains the longest prayer recorded in Scripture. This theologically-rich chapter underscores the centrality of God’s Word, the surpassing value of His character and the solemnity of honest confession of sin to Him. When you intentionally treasure God’s Word, you gain an understanding of Him and yourself that results in ongoing renewal.
I. Review of events in Nehemiah 8
-reading of Law
-from mourning to joy
-reinstitution of Feast of Booths
II. Meeting for confession and worship (9:1-5a)
-solemn assembly
-fasting…sackcloth…dirt…
-separation from foreigners
-Word, confession and worship
III. Prayer of confession (9:5b-31)
-name of God
-God as creator
-Abraham
-captivity in Egypt to Red Sea
-desert wanderings to Promised Land
-judgment to Babylonian captivity
IV. Request and resolve (9:32-37)
-The great God…
-request: “Let not…”
-summary confession
-honest assessment
-sealed covenant
V. So what?
-Affirm God’s absolute faithfulness
-Acknowledge the devastating consequences of sin
-Agree with God’s assessment of sin
-Appreciate the power of God’s Word
-Celebrate the wonder of God’s grace and mercy!
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for February 8, 2015
Guest Speaker: David Norman
Master of Divinity candidate at Southwestern Baptist Seminary
“The People of God and the Word of God” Nehemiah 8:1-12 Bible Study 02/08/15
Question: What Makes a Church a “Church”?
God’s People Reverence God’s Word (1-6)
God’s People Study God’s Word (7-8)
God’s People Understand God’s Word (9-12)
Main Idea: A reverence and obedience to the Word of God stands at the center of what it means to be the people of God.
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for February 1, 2015
“Do Your Appointed Part” Nehemiah 7:1-8 Bible Study 02/01/15
After the tremendous accomplishment of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah does not suffer from a leadership let-down. Because his focus is on the God who enabled the wall to be rebuilt, he does not make an idol out of the wall itself or the sense of accomplishment connected with its completion. He clearly understands that, without effective leadership, great success may be followed by colossal failure. Therefore, as we turn to Nehemiah 7, we see a leader who is moving forward to address the long-term needs of the returning Jewish community in Jerusalem. Two key concerns are emphasized-the security of the city and the repopulation of the city. For Nehemiah, these concerns are connected closely and addressing them demands a commitment to connectivity and cooperation. Because the accomplishment of God’s purpose matters most, invest yourself in serving alongside others for His glory.
I. Understand the context of cooperation
-Eccl. 4:9-12
-Eliashib 3:1
-a notable exception: nobles from Tekoa 3:5
-Rephaiah and Shallum 3:9-12
-Malchijah 3:14
II. Observe the team-approach for security (7:1-3)
-door installation
-gatekeepers, singers and Levites…
-Hanani and Hananiah: faithful and God-fearing
-an ancient neighborhood watch
III. Observe the God-ordained strategy for repopulation (7:4-8)
-an underpopulated and vulnerable city
-census of returning exiles
-genealogical significance
-“…my God put it into my heart…”
IV. So what?
-Understand the validity of “every-member ministry”
-Set aside personal preference for the greater objective of participation in God’s purpose
-Remember that “it’s always too soon to quit”
-Celebrate the validity of glad-hearted biblical submission
-Never forget your ultimate “audience’
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for January 25, 2015
“Be Faithful in Adversity” Nehemiah 6:1-19 Bible Study 01/25/15
This morning’s study completely explodes the popular modern myth that if one is serving God, he or she is guaranteed instant and hassle-free success. Nehemiah encounters obstacles at seemingly every turn in his quest to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem. His experience reinforces the biblical truth that captures the essence of our look at 6:1-19: Because God is able to overcome all obstacles to His work, you can complete His assignment with confidence.
I. Expect opposition when on assignment for God
-2:19-20, 4:1-5, 4:7-8
-battleship not cruiseship
-external and internal
II. Use discernment to minimize distractions (6:1-4)
-status of the walls
-a seemingly “spiritual” invitation
-Nehemiah’s awareness
-desperation of opposition
-the value of saying “no”
III. Respond to outright falsehood with open facts (6:5-9)
-open letter
-character-assassination strategy
-“Just the facts…”
-refuse to allow intimidation to immobilize
IV. Employ discretion in assessing proposals (6:10-14)
-Shemaiah’s recommendation
-ancient asylum-seeking
-Nehemiah’s key question
-Nehemiah’s perception
V. Anticipate opposition even after completing the assignment (6:15-19)
-the impact and testimony of a completed wall
-continuation of harassment
-the best answer to opposition
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for January 18, 2015
“A Womb with a View” Psalm 139:13-18 Bible Study 01/18/15
What is a human life worth? Not much, apparently, if we consider the manner in which American culture treats its unborn and aged. Sadly, a mother’s womb has become a hazardous site in our country and the plight of the aged is riddled with accounts of neglect and abuse. More than twenty-five years ago, former Surgeon General, C. Everett Koop, lamented this devaluation of human life when he said, “When I graduated from medical school the idea was, ‘How can I save this life?’, but for a great number of the medical students now it is, ‘Should I save this life?’”
The best resource to consult if we want to gain a true measure of the value of human life is its Author. The God of creation, who created us in His image, gives us several insights into His perspective in the pages of Scripture. One specific instance of this perspective is found in Psalm 139. Addressed to the Choirmaster, this psalm of David celebrates God’s intimate knowledge of us and His intricate fashioning of us as His unique handiwork. As the Author and Sustainer of human life, God values our existence. Because He values life, so should we.
I. With intimate intricacy He defines our individuality (13-14)
-inward parts, “kidneys”, depths of being
-a “from the womb” perspective
-the “Knitter” who weaves together
-He is awesomely wonderful! He made us!
II. With infinite insight He orchestrates our existence (15-16)
-hidden from humans but not from God
-embroidered with skill
-“…Your eyes saw my ‘embryo’”
-“…Your scroll recorded my days before days”
III. With absolute amazement ponder His providence (17-18)
-the value of His thoughts
-the vastness of His thoughts
-waking or sleeping…
IV. So what?
-Mourn the 50 million+ victims of abortion and pray for God’s mercy
-Relate to others, especially the pre-born and aged, as “precious in His sight”
-Live with a profound sensitivity to God’s presence and power
-“Great God! from Thee there’s nought concealed, Thou seest my inward frame; To Thee I always stand revealed Exactly as I am!
Since I can hardly, therefore, bear What in myself I see; How vile and black must I appear, Most holy God to Thee!
But since my Saviour stands between, In garments dyed in blood, ‘Tis He, instead of me, is seen, When I approach to God.
Thus, though a sinner, I am safe; He pleads, before the throne, His life and death on my behalf, And calls my sin His own.
What wondrous love, what mysteries, In this appointment shine! My breaches of the law are His, And His obedience mine.” (John Newton)
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for January 11, 2015
“God Inspires the Work” Nehemiah 1:1-11; 2:1-8; 2:17-18 Bible Study 01/11/15
Our texts today focus on the servant leadership of Nehemiah. About 13-14 years after Ezra’s arrival in Jerusalem, Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem as the Lord’s key instrument in spearheading the effort to rebuild the walls of the city. While it is certainly appropriate to stress the exemplary leadership skills and practices of Nehemiah, the bigger picture in the book that bears his name focuses on the honor and reputation of the “great and awesome God.” This God restores His repentant people in order that they might do work that honors Him. Those who recognize God as great and awesome pursue His honor and depend on His power.
I. Understand Nehemiah’s perspective (1:1-11)
-Nehemiah: “The Lord comforts”
-invocation, confession and request
-accurate understanding and thorough knowledge…
II. Reflect on the exposure of Nehemiah’s distress (2:1-3)
-four months later his grief is apparent
-his role as cupbearer to the King
-the King’s question and Nehemiah’s response
III. Examine the presentation of Nehemiah’s request (2:4-5)
-an ordained invitation
-a pause for prayer
-humility, tact and discretion
IV. Observe evidence of Nehemiah’s careful planning (2:6-8)
-request for letters
-request for supplies
-“the good hand of my God…”
V. Note the commitment to build (2:17-18)
-identification with the people
-honest assessment
-testimony of grace
-motivation for commitment: the wall/reputation of God connection
VI. So what?
-Remember that “faith” is not a synonym for disorder and chaos
-Make an assessment of those things that grieve/distress you
-Care more about God’s honor and reputation than your own
-Trust God to address the “King Puzzles” in your life
-Cultivate a lofty view of God that is informed by His Word
-“O Could I speak the matchless worth…”
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for January 4, 2015
“God Commands Obedience” Ezra 7:1-10 Bible Study 01/04/15
The focus of this particular passage is particularly appropriate for the first Sunday in a new year. As we make new resolutions and commitments, the objective of saturating ourselves in Scripture should be at the top of our lists. Almost sixty years after the completion of the Temple, Ezra led a group of returning exiles back to Jerusalem with the goal of restoring the proper worship of the living God. Ezra was a priestly descendant, a skilled scribe, a capable leader and a Scripture-saturated person. The Lord used him at a critical time in the history of His people. His impact is still a topic of discussion today! God honors faithful obedience to His Word with fruitfulness and freedom.
I. Think about this theme
-thematic element that binds chapters 7-8 together
-7:6,9,28; 8:18,22,31
-“the hand of God…”
II. Note the emphasis on credentials (1-6)
-“Now after this…”
-connection to Aaron
-the favor of Artaxerxes
III. Observe Ezra’s dedicated focus (7-10)
-four-month journey
-“set his heart…to study…to do…to teach…”
-completed revelation and ongoing providence
IV. So what?
-“But we never can prove the delights of His love until all on the altar we lay…” (J. Sammis)
-Remember that “God is the ruler yet.”
-Investigate/Incarnate/Instruct (M. Minnick)
-2 Tim. 3:16-17: God-breathed Scripture
-Psa. 119:17-40: The issue of inclination
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for December 28, 2014
“God Ordains Restoration” Ezra 3:1-7, 10-11; 6:19-22 Bible Study 12/28/14
As we turn to the book of Ezra this morning, we encounter a record of God-ordained restoration. Because of their rebellion and idolatry, the Lord brought judgment on the Southern Kingdom of Judah in the form of the Babylonian Captivity which commenced around 586 B.C. However, even in the midst of judgment, God promised a future restoration of His people to their homeland. After the Persians overthrew the Babylonians, King Cyrus of Persia issued an edict in 538 B.C. which opened the way for displaced Jews to return to their home. Our texts this morning address the rebuilding of the altar, the reestablishment of the Temple foundation and the restoration of God-prescribed worship in Jerusalem. The restoration depicted in these texts points us forward to that ultimate restoration which centers in the person and work of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because God is gracious, His people may be restored to worship Him according to His designed specifications.
I. A Rebuilt Altar (3:1-7)
-instructions of Cyrus
-significance of “seventh month”: Rosh Hashanah/Trumpets/Atonement/Tabernacles
-sacrifices/offerings demand an altar
-Joshua and Zerubbabel: religious and civil leadership
-priority of blood sacrifice to cover sins of the people
-New Covenant connections: Heb. 9:12, 15, 24-26; 13:10-16
II. A Reestablished Temple Foundation (3:10-11)
-praise and thanksgiving
-Psalm 118:1, 29
III. A Restoration of Worship (6:19-22)
-opposition along the way
-significance of Passover (Ex. 12:13)
-the uniting power of purified/true worship
-unleavened bread: readiness to obey
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for December 21, 2014
“From Bethlehem to the Ends of the Earth” Micah 5:2-5a Bible Study 12/21/14
In Luke 2:8-20 one can find at least two specific references to Bethlehem as the place of Christ’s birth. More than 700 years before the events recorded in Luke 2, the prophet Micah delivered a prophetic word which helps us grasp the “why” and “how” of celebrating Christmas. His prophecy of Christ’s birth in Bethlehem invites us to ponder the Lord’s incomparable providence and to trust His supernatural provision for us.
I. Introduction
-Micah: contemporary of Isaiah
-from heartache to hope
-two images: sheep/shepherd and woman in labor
-perception of professionals and people
II. The Lord always acts to magnify His Person
-the contrast: insignificance of Bethlehem and significance of Christ
-the conclusion: Why?
-to shut the mouth of human boasting
-to shine forth the magnitude of His mercy
III. The Lord always keeps His promises
-linking David and Jesus
-confirmation of 2 Samuel 7:16
-condition: not rising but sinking
IV. The Lord always protects His people
-standing, shepherding, serving
-security and peace
-the deepest need at Christmas
Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for December 14, 2014
“God Provides Deliverance” Esther 4:6-17 Bible Study 12/14/14
The story of Esther affirms that God acts providentially to deliver His people in keeping with His redemptive purposes. While Esther appears only briefly on the stage of biblical history, she is used as an instrument to deliver God’s people from the genocidal plot of Haman. As we will observe, Haman, like others before and after him, fails to account for the providential presence of the living God.
I. Introduction
-Mordecai, Hathach and Esther
-Gen. 50:20 and Rom. 8:28
-providential contrasts
II. Mordecai mourns (6-9)
-signed decree
-sackcloth and ashes
-specific details
-appeal for intercession
III. Esther’s dilemma (10-12)
-death sentence
-gold scepter extension
IV. Mordecai’s appeal (13-14)
-relief from another place…
-panorama of God’s purposes
-risk-taking on behalf of a non-risk taking God
V. Esther’s commitment (15-17)
-fasting/prayer
-not stoicism but surrender
VI. So what?
-Because God is faithful to deliver His people, step out in faith to be His instrument in uncertain times.
-Consider the connection to Mary: Luke 1:34,38,46-55
-“ He who counts the stars and calls them by name is in no danger of forgetting His own children.” (C. Spurgeon)
– “Providence in its wisdom plays pranks on all our man-made rules.” (Sidney Berry)
– “The providence of God is like Hebrew words-it can be read only backwards.” (John Flavel)
