103. “Lording it Over” (katakurieuō) in Mark 10:42 and 1 Peter 5:3
When you read Jesus’ words in Mark 10:42-45 you probably think that Jesus is contrasting the abusive leadership of national leaders with the serving leadership he demands in his Kingdom. However, it is probable that Jesus is not commenting on abusive leadership, per se, but rather the absolute power of lordship that national leaders had and is contrasting that with the serving, slave-minded attitude of his Kingdom leaders.
87. “Searching the Word” – A Prophetic Task
(eraunō/exeraunō 1 Peter 1:10-11)
We know that God spoke through selected people prophetically. Rarely do we consider, however, that these people themselves earnestly sought to discern the full meaning of the messages they were given to proclaim. The apostle, Peter, however, in his first letter tells us clearly that the prophets desperately wanted to understand what God was revealing. [...]
86. Getting Access to God
(prosagein 1 Peter 3:18)
Within Jewish tradition gaining access to God was risky business. Those who saw God expected to die. When God gave instructions for building the Tabernacle, He was very careful to protect Himself from unwarranted human contact. Only the High Priest, once a year and only after extensive preparations for purification, could enter the most holy [...]