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OLD TESTAMENT ARTICLE
RIGHTEOUS... NOT!
Moses could already hear it, "God gave us this land because we are righteous." It would have been just like Israel to claim righteousness and thus a blessing based on that righteousness but Moses sets the record straight.
First, he informs them why they would receive this blessing. Their receiving of the land had nothing to do with them. They received it because it was time for God to punish the Canaanites for their wickedness and to fulfill the promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (verse 5). It wasn't their righteousness but the wickedness of the Canaanites and the righteousness of their forefathers.
So having set the record straight on why they were going to receive Canaan he now turns his attention to their claim of righteousness. "You have been rebellious against the Lord from the day I knew you." (verse 24). Furthermore he accuses them of being stubborn (verse 6, 13), acting corruptly (verse 12), sin (verse 16, 27), evil (verse 18), wickedness (verse 27), stiff-necked (10:16). They were a people who were FAR from being righteous. In fact, Moses indicates they were the exact opposite of righteous. Talk about a reality check. So much for their self-esteem.
What possessed Moses to say what he did? The only way this generation would conquer Canaan was to recognize their success lay in God's hands not their own. And after having conquered it to remember such was accomplished because God was with them. This is why over and over again Moses reminds them the nations they would conquer were greater and mightier than they, (4:38; 7:1; 9:1-6; 11:23). Was it not for God being with them, they never would have conquered the land. In fact, the one time they tried doing such without God they were soundly defeated (Numbers 14:39-45). Thus instead of looking to themselves they must look to God and put their trust in Him and His abilities.
God wants the same from His servants today. When God saves us it will be because of His love for us and not our righteousness.
NEW TESTAMENT ARTICLE
F.F.A.
No, I'm not talking about the Future Farmers of America organization. I have reference to three rulers which Paul had the opportunity of explaining himself to, Felix, Festus, and Agrippa. Specifically I'm interested in their reaction to Paul's message.
First there is Felix. Paul having been arrested in Jerusalem is eventually sent to the offices of the Roman governor Felix in Caesarea. Felix decides to hear Paul's case after his accusers arrive and then decides to wait for the arrival of Lysias the commander. For some reason He never arrives and Paul remains in prison for two years. During that time he has the opportunity to speak with Felix about righteousness, self-control and the judgement to come. Though frightened by Paul's words Felix decides now is not a convenient time to make a change and dismisses Paul.
Next is Festus. Felix is removed and replaced by Festus. The Jews once again try to get Paul to Jerusalem but Paul appeals to Caesar and Festus says "to Caesar you shall go." During Paul's defense to Agrippa, Festus takes all he can and finally exclaims, "Paul, you are out of your mind." (Acts 26:24).
Finally there is Agrippa. Agrippa comes to Caesarea to meet the new governor Festus. During his visit, Festus tells him about Paul and his dilemma in explaining to Caesar why he is sending him there. Agrippa decides to give Paul a hearing in the hopes of helping Festus out. Instead Agrippa exclaims that it wouldn't take much more preaching from Paul and he would become a Christian.
How typical are these reactions which are often seen still today. Either one is waiting for a convenient time when all is right for them to make a change. Or upon hearing the story of the cross think it the most ridiculous thing they have ever heard. Or those whose hearts are pricked and are almost persuaded to do something but don't. Even we as Christians can still have any one of these reactions to God's requirements for us. Let us pray that we are not the twentieth century versions of Felix, Festus or Agrippa.