Category: Bible Studies and Commentary

Living Stones Through Grace

May 7th, 2023

The responsive reading for today (7 May 2023) was taken from I Peter 2: 1-10, and Ephesians 2: 8-10. The commentary which appears below, was limited in scope, because of the size of the church bulletin. Please note that the apostle Peter was writing to Christians, people saved through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

We know this by the quotation from Psalm 34:8, which states: “Taste and see that the Lord is good.” Peter uses this in a conditional statement to the believers that they grow in their faith, if indeed they have tasted and seen that the Lord is good. Following is the text of the commentary that coincided with the responsive reading, and appeared in the church bulletin.

Today’s responsive reading like the previous one, continues quoting from the apostle Peter. In the letter addressed to gentiles suffering persecution, and offering exhortations to continue in the faith; Peter refers to us becoming living stones through salvation from Jesus Christ.

In John 1:42, when Jesus meets Simon (Peter); He gives him the name Cephas. Cephas is Aramaic meaning “rock.” In Matthew 16:42, after correctly identifying Jesus as the “Messiah, the Son of the Living God”; Jesus acknowledged that God had revealed this to him. Jesus then tells him, “You are Peter (Petros – Greek for rock), and on this rock I will build my church” (HCSB). While the cornerstone of the Church is Jesus Christ, and its foundation is the Messiahship of Jesus; Peter (a living stone) was instrumental in its very beginning.

In today’s responsive reading Peter describes Jesus as a living stone. Old Testament Prophesy, in Isaiah 28:16, quoted in today’s reading; presents Jesus as a precious stone and cornerstone, and a sure foundation for believers. Peter goes on to indicate that as believers we too are like Jesus as living stones, making up His church.

As these living stones, our lives should reflect, the purity and strength of the Savior. We do this by ridding ourselves of things that detract from our witness for Jesus, such as malice, slander, envy, and insincerity. Through “Spiritual Milk” from reading the Bible, and listening to Christian teaching, we grow in faithful strength, and like living stones are built into a spiritual house.

We have to remember that Jesus, the cornerstone of our faith, was persecuted throughout his ministry. He suffered and died at the hands of those who did not believe, and who hated him. Through his suffering and death, Jesus paid the atonement price for us. We are confident in this because God raised Jesus from the grave, and he now reigns in heaven. The rest of the world does not believe this, and from those who today hate Jesus; we can expect the same persecution.

Ultimately, Peter reminds us that those who hate Jesus and persecute his followers; will be the lost souls, tripped by the rejected cornerstone, who will fall. Before that happens we must remain strong in the faith, because as Peter reminds us we are a royal priesthood, and a holy nation of believers; and therefore God’s own people. Rejoice, because through Jesus; God has had mercy on us.

The responsive reading ends with words of caution and comfort, from the apostle Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. We are saved by grace and mercy from God, and not because of anything we have done, or can do. Grace is a gift from God, purchased through the blood of Jesus shed for our sins.

Because of this grace, we rejoice and want others we love to also experience it. Paul reminds us that we are saved through Christ, for good works. We do this because we love our Triune God, and want to show our love by bringing others into the holy nation and to become God’s own people.

Peter reminds us that as living stones, we should let ourselves be built into a spiritual house of worship of God through Jesus Christ. This spiritual house is the church, Jesus is the head of that church; and we are called to build up and call others into its fellowship. It is not always easy to do this, but it is the commission given to each of us from Jesus.

Praying that each of us is blessed with a wonderful week, and remain steadfast living stones in the church: the body of Christ, through his grace…

© 2023 David Posival
Walking With Jesus

April 13th, 2023

The responsive reading for 9 April 2023, Resurrection Sunday, was titled Walking With Jesus. The reading was taken from the gospel of Luke 24: 1a, 13b-32. This is my favorite Biblical story for the season.

Today’s responsive reading, provides another story about the disciples first encounter with the risen Savior. We all know the details of the women going to the tomb to finish the burial rites for Jesus, and the wonderful realization that he is risen. Today I chose one of my favorite Resurrection Sunday texts: Luke’s description of two disciple’s encounter with the risen Lord on the road to Emmaus.

Jesus had many disciples other than the twelve he called. In this instance two of them were walking to the village of Emmaus. They were saddened and confused by the betrayal and crucifixion of their Master. Such grand hopes for the redemption of Israel, had come crashing down in their lives. So, to say they were saddened, is probably and understatement.

These disciples had an encounter with Jesus that completely turned their world upside down. Instead of the conquering Lion of Judah, they met the Suffering Messiah; but with a hope and promise for salvation and eternity with Him. In the book of Acts chapter 17 verse 6, Scripture speaks of the Jewish leaders blaming Paul and Silas for “turning the world upside down” in Thessalonica.

Depending on our previous lives and lifestyle, when the risen Jesus comes into our lives; things also can radically change. While people raised in the Christian church, may not see this radical change, many non-churched converts experience a new awakening.

I relate to this story on several levels. One is walking, as exercise, stress relief, and as a way to clearing my thinking; and is a significant part of my life. Walking with God, as I sometimes call this activity, is literally a time to pray and commune with God in solitude.

Another way of relating to this story, results from how Jesus, “came near them and went with them.” God is always working around us and pursues an intimate love relationship with each of us. Jesus knew the hearts of these travelers and came near and while walking with them called them to the same intimate relationship.

Through God’s Holy Spirit, Jesus walks with us daily, calling us to himself and his love. When we listen, Jesus speaks truth and invites us to join him and the Father, in His work. When I hear Jesus speaking, and his words and my thoughts come together; like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, my heart burns within me with awe and gratitude.

© 2023 David Posival, postoakdave.com
King of Forgiveness and Salvation

April 6th, 2023

The most recent responsive reading and commentary are from 2 April 2023. The readings are taken from Luke 19: 29b-40; Luke 23: 20-22a, 23, 24;Luke 23: 33-34a

Today we begin the final week of Lent. It is also referred to as Christ’s Passion Week. Today’s responsive reading reflects the two opposing views of Jesus and his deity.

As we begin, Jesus is traveling to Jerusalem for the final time before his death. Jesus remains focused on doing God’s will and fulfilling prophesy. The many followers of Jesus, welcome and accompany him as he nears Jerusalem; proclaiming his kingship.

The crowd is filled with people that have witnessed the amazing, powerful, and loving works of Jesus. Jerusalem is filled with people there to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread, or Passover. It is easy to understand that they welcome Jesus as a king, coming to free them from the hated Romans.

Yet, instead of riding in on a magnificent horse as a conquering hero, Jesus arrives on a lowly colt of a donkey. Instead of coming to save them from the Romans, Jesus is actually there to make the supreme sacrifice to save them and us from sin, and eternal separation from God.

Even in this moment of adoration and celebration, the Jewish leaders voice their opposition to him, and tell Jesus to silence his followers. These same leaders have heard of, and seen the wondrous things Jesus has done, and must know of the prophesies he fulfilled; but are still blind to his Lordship.

This blind hatred from the Jewish leaders, escalates throughout the week culminating in the cowardly night arrest of Jesus, and a shameful mock trial. The Jewish leaders have no authority under Roman law to execute Jesus. Their hatred of Jesus demands death and so he is brought before their enemy Pilate, the Roman Governor.

Even though Pilate finds no wrong in Jesus, the Jewish leaders continue to call for his death through crucifixion Their shouts and veiled threats that Pilate is derelict in his duties to the Roman Emperor Tiberius, if he does not sentence him to death; persuade Pilate to sentence Jesus to die on the cross.

Finally we read that as he is being crucified with two criminals, Jesus intercedes with God to forgive those responsible for his death. It was not only the Jewish leaders, Pilate, and the Roman soldiers; but also our sinful nature that nailed Jesus to the cross. Jesus interceded for our sins then, and even now stands before God and against Satan the great accuser; interceding on our behalf for God’s forgiveness.

Just as Jesus replied to the leaders that stopping his followers from worship would require even the stones to shout out with joy, we too are to proclaim the Deity and Lordship of Jesus. During this solemn Passion Week, I ask you to join with me in praise and worship of Jesus, and remember the tremendous price he paid to save us from eternal death. Even though we have no Good Friday service, please take a few minutes this coming Friday, and pause with me; expressing our sorrow for our sins, and thanksgiving for Jesus’s love and sacrifice.

© 2023 David Posival
Pray in all Circumstances

March 22nd, 2023

Following is the commentary that accompanied the responsive reading for 19 March 2023, which I provided for my church. The responsive reading included the following scripture selections: Luke 18: 2-8, Matthew 6: 5-8, Luke 22:39-44, and I Thessalonians 5: 16-18.

As we begin this fourth week of the Lenten season, I selected prayer as the topic. The night before Jesus was arrested, and the next day crucified; Luke in his gospel, described Jesus praying with such intensity that sweat drops like blood fell to the ground. Thus, prayer seemed an appropriate topic.

All throughout the Gospels, we read of Jesus going away from the crowds and even the disciples, to spend time in intimate conversation with God. Jesus prayed in all circumstances, and listened to the response from God the Father.

Jesus told the parable of the unjust judge and the widow, to teach us to pray with persistence. Sometimes I struggle with this, because of a lack of patience. I have to constantly remind myself that God knows me and the future better than I do, and will only do that which is for my good. So, sometimes God’s answer may be “yes,” and other times may be “no,” or even “wait.”

Sometimes that which is for my good, may be contrary to my prayer request. I have to remember that God’s will is what is important. God’s will for us was salvation through the suffering and death of Jesus. Even though Jesus prayed for this cup to pass from him, he prayed; if it was God’s will. God’s answer was no. Jesus obeyed and paid the price for our salvation.

Persistence in prayer is not to keep reminding God of our wants or needs, as if He forgets. God does not forget, get distracted by other’s prayers, or ignore us. Persistence in prayer should be our way of drawing closer to God, and little by little grasping his plan and purpose for us.

Prayer and Bible study, are two ways that God speaks to us, if we but listen. It is so easy to go to God in prayer, with a lengthy list of wants and needs. But, how much time do we spend listening for God’s response; and in faith believing that he has heard, and answered our prayer?

We do not need a lot of fancy or lofty words to get God’s attention. As Jesus said, in Matthew 6:8; “[God] your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” While public prayer is well and good, God wants a personal and loving relationship with each of us as individuals. Quiet private and personal time alone with God in prayer, is his desire and our blessing.

When Jesus prayed, it was a time of communion with God; from which he learned where the Father was working, and then joined in that work. Last week’s Bible study referred to Jesus’s words, found in John 5:19-20; where Jesus explained this to the religious leaders of his time.

The fact that God loves us and pursues a deep and personal loving relationship with us, should fill us with joy and adoration, Then, as the apostle Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18; Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Our prayer life is so important that much of today’s responsive reading was also a part of the one for August 7, 2022. To me, prayer time is such a blessing that I pray you experience God’s love this week, in the same way…

© 2023 David Posival
The Light That Overcame Sin

March 12th, 2023

Following is the commentary that accompanies the responsive reading for March 12, 2023; both of which I provide for the small country church I attend. Simple folk and simple message. The responsive reading was taken from Isaiah 53: 1-11, and John 1: 1-5.

As we begin this third week of the Lenten season, the responsive reading primarily concerns Isaiah’s prophesy about the ministry, suffering, and death of Jesus. This prophesy was written some 700 years before Jesus was born.

Isaiah first speaks of Jesus coming in lowly form and not a conquering king. The mission for Jesus was always to end at the cross, dying for our sins. Isaiah portrays Jesus as a servant, who bears the burdens and infirmities that were on our shoulders.

Isaiah speaks clearly about Jesus going through the same daily trials, as do we. As Christians we can be despised by those that are not believers. We can be persecuted, and seen as fools for Jesus. Yet, this is nothing new, since Jesus faced the same ridicule and hatred during his earthly ministry.

When sin entered the world in the Garden of Eden, a chasm was created between us and God. No matter how diligently we try, on our own; we cannot overcome this obstacle. Since the beginning, Jesus was destined to become the bridge that crosses this chasm.

Jesus was sinless and innocent of any wrong doing, yet as happens many times justice was perverted. Jesus was convicted of crimes that we as sinners commit; but of which he was guiltless.

Many times I struggle with understanding the love that Jesus has for us, such that he willingly took on our sin and iniquity; and paid the price for our atonement with God. To walk with sinners daily and love them, knowing that He eventually faced the cross; just seems too great a burden for anyone to bear. And yet, Jesus did just that!

Since the first sin in the garden, there has been a dark shroud of grief over the loss of paradise that each of us must sense. Our lives are clouded and darkened with sin that we seem powerless to overcome.

In the final portion of the responsive reading, taken from John 1: 1-5; we read of the Word — Jesus being the voice of creation. Already Jesus was loving us and preparing to pay the ultimate price for our sins. Through his redeeming work on the cross, and his resurrection; Jesus became the light that overcomes the darkness of sin.

Jesus created life, and offers us eternal life with him; when we accept his sacrifice and take up our cross and follow him. Praying that Jesus makes our burdens light this week, as we follow him…
Tilling the Soil

March 8th, 2023

This morning, after devotional readings, I felt led to read Proverbs 12 and 13. I am dealing with a lack of resources, to pay down debt, and make improvements in many areas of my life and homestead.

These two proverb chapters speak of tilling the land and having food, of being diligent and experiencing success. They speak also, of the wicked being thwarted in their devious plans; while the righteous are blessed.

As a gardener, I till the soil, plant the seeds, and fight the weeds and insects. This requires diligence, to at least experience some level of success. Having this opportunity is definitely a blessing, perhaps wrapped in challenges; but a blessing nonetheless.

I have never been a fan of Proverbs, but recently completed a month long daily Bible study of that Biblical book. Even though the sentiments expressed seem random and disconnected, at least a few may address a current situation; with which we are struggling.

While reading this morning, I realized that I do receive blessings from almighty God on a daily basis. Sometimes, amidst the challenges of each day; we forget the blessings we have received. Pausing and assessing our lives each day, with the goal of counting our blessings; is for me a reminder of the great love God has for me and you.

Beginning each day, spending time with God in his word, quiet contemplation, and prayer; provide a blessed reminder of his love and care. I pray that upon reading this you are uplifted and blessed, and led to also spend a part of your day in God’s presence.
Experiencing God

January 20th, 2023

The title above is also the title of a Bible Study I just completed. I got the study from Lifeway, and it was written by Henry, Richard, and Michael Blackaby. This has been a transformational experience for me. My whole perspective on living as a Christian has changed as a result. I am just now beginning to understand the rewarding life that we can experience with God leading us each day doing His will. I highly recommend doing this study to anyone who wants to truly deepen their relationship with God.

Completing a Bible study is not the end of the learning process. During the study, I eagerly looked forward to the next session. That enthusiasm carries over into my life now.

Living each day with God as my guide and source of strength has become even more meaningful after the study. Experiencing God in our lives brings so many wonderful blessings. We see God working around us, and when He invites us to join Him, we have to obey and prepare for another wonderful experience. It may not be an easy task, and may challenge us; but God does not fail and neither will we when we stay the course with Him.

I pray a blessed day for you the reader.
A New Beginning

December 19th, 2022

This blog site is dedicated to following my Christian development progress through Bible studies. I have been working through Experiencing God; an excellent Bible study from Lifeway Publishing.

As a result, I have felt led to create this site for members of my church and others; to visit for study commentary and a place to leave their thoughts. Please remember to be respectful in all comments.

I write responsive readings for my church worship, and usually include a commentary explaining the scripture choice(s) and layman’s interpretation. I also am starting a simple Bible study for my church, and will post my comments and thoughts here. Members will be able to post their own responses.

My prayer, for you the reader; is blessing through simple faith building words that inspire and lead you to a deeper committed relationship with God.