Most mornings I get a cup of coffee and read from the Bible with my friend Matthew Henry. How, you might ask, can one be friends with someone who lived in 17th century England?
My best answer is, “I just am.”
I first met Matthew in the pages of one of Dr. Warren Wiersbe’s books Giant Steps. It is a book I acquired many years ago as a new believer. Giant Steps contains writings and information on 52 great Christian thinkers and doers. These stories span four hundred years of Christian history.
As a new Christian, it seemed to me that writings and thoughts from the early days of the Christian faith and the church might be more accurate than what many were/are saying in our day. The “old guys” as I called them would have been closer to events as they happened. They were spiritual giants of the past.
Dr. Wiersbe shares the stories of men who in the early days of Christianity and the church were prominent leaders, teachers, missionaries, and commentators. I met Matthew there, in those pages. We have been friends ever since.
Matthew writes with a 16th century English point of view. But I am amazed to find how many times his comments on Bible happenings so accurately fit our day. I believe that speaks to the truth and timeliness of the Bible.
I have always thought Matthew’s work was excellent. Many years ago, while searching for an online copy of his Commentary, I found one in a format that allowed us (Matthew and I) to read verses from the Bible immediately followed by his thought on those particular verses. It is an excellent way to contemplate his thoughts coupled with the verses to which they apply.
Together Matthew and I have read much of the Bible, and I always find his commentary thoughtful, refreshing, timeless, and sometimes challenging. Sometimes it is almost like he is saying, “did you see what happened yesterday, here is what I think about it.” I always appreciate his 16th century slant on things.
We have just started reading Psalms. It was amazing to hear his thoughts on Chapter One. It is like he is commenting on our day.
PSALMS 1–6 The Way of the Righteous and the End of the Ungodly.
1. Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; 2. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. 3. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. 4. The ungodly are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind drives away. 5. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 6. For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish.
In just a few short verses we see “the good, the bad, and the ugly” laid out right before us.
We can see a very clear difference between the Godly and the ungodly. I believe it is possible to see that difference by simply observing today’s world events. Also, as you read on, notice the clear difference in their respective ends.
As with many things in life, there is a choice
Which end will you choose?
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