July 29
2 Kings 21:1-9, 2 Chronicles 33:1-9; 2 Kings 21:10-17; 2 Chronicles 33:10-19; 2 Kings 21:18; 2 Chronicles 33:20; 2 Kings 21:19-26; 2 Chronicles 33:21-25; 2 Kings 22:1-2; 2 Chronicles 34:1-7; Jeremiah 1:1-2:22
When the veil tore in two (Matthew 27:51), when Jesus was on the cross, not only were our sins paid for, but we now had direct access to the Father through the Son. No longer was a human intermediary necessary to mediate on our behalf. This is freedom. This is certainly a superior situation. But most don't want this. So many refuse to move forward in this personal relationship. God has left us His guidebook, but the overwhelming majority prefer to allow it to collect dust as it sits on night tables or bookshelves. Instead, they seek out intermediaries to interpret everything for them. Whether they be pastors, priests, or rabbis, these men are lifted up, and many hang on their every word. My Pastor has openly stated frequently, that he is a teacher and pastor, but if anything passes from his lips which seems to contradict what the bible states, he welcomes anyone who would approach him. This is healthy. He has taught me so much, and I seek him when I am confused about areas of Scripture or in personal conflicts. Sadly many have exalted their leaders, and in the process have usurped the authority of God and have placed it on the shoulders of men, only to be led astray in the process.
The people of Judah just before they were taken captive by the Babylonians were guilty of spiritual adultery. Rather than following God through His word, they chose to follow the leaders, as we read in Jeremiah 2:8, "The priests did not say, 'Where is the Lord?' And those who handle the law did not know Me: The rulers also transgressed against Me; The prophets prophesied by Baal, And walked after things that do not profit." The people followed those respected men and were led astray. Jeremiah was called to be a prophet from the womb (1:5), but was concerned for he was still young, probably a teenager (1:6). But God reassures Jeremiah in 1:8, "Do not be afraid of their faces, For I am with you to deliver you," says the Lord." We then read in 1:9, "Then the Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the Lord said to me: "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth."
Jesus wants a direct relationship with each of us. He is not looking for us to adhere to a denomination, to be religious, but to be in a relationship. Many prefer to put their trust in a "go-between", but this is not the relationship that He desires. He wants to be our guide. He wants us to be in His vine (John 15). Notice there are no intermediaries in this beautiful promise in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Sure, seek wise counsel. Yes, find a church where the word of God is lifted up over the traditions of man. But He has given us His guidebook, His path for each of us, and it is contained in the pages of Scripture. Pick it up and allow it to pour into you.
Messages from Pastor Lloyd Pulley: