Bible Discussion Thread

vs 32 has always stood out to me, ever since God brought it to my attention many years ago, when Pharaoh said to Moses, " and bless me too!.." :-) I personally don't remember hearing that verse preached or taught on since! " ...how can you bless whom God has cursed ... "? No record of Moses responding to Pharaoh's request!

kol tuv etc ... (i.e. be well)

MARANATHA!

This is an outstanding observation in my opinion. Such is the nature; of many prosperity preachers today who invoke the name of Jesus but want to live their way with greed; adultery and other such sins and expect God's blessings to occur. What has to be assessed is the state of their souls in general if they are truly saved (in the case of Pharaoh clearly NOT); and whether they are asking to satisfy their own lusts ( James 4:3). This pattern also shows up with the Pharisees who think because they are the physical descendants of Abraham somehow they are God's children. It also is sort of illustrated with Judas Iscariot and in fact; all the tares who want to benefit from the influence of being in the presence of Jesus; but ultimately when confronted with their own sinful state only want to avoid the CONSEQUENCES rather than admit to offending a Holy God. Such is the case for the unregenerate who will bow down and acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord on Judgment Day but alas; too late for their souls to be saved.

Those who are in this temporal state such as the rich man (unnamed) in the parable Jesus told with Lazarus correctly pointing out certain verses (albeit with their own twist) on God's financial blessings. In their case; it is likely Satan who provides such benefits; whether through their own inheritance; or ill gotten gains through the world financial system or ripping people off. The pagans often would credit their false gods for their prosperity; with some fearing the true God while simultaneously worshipping idols. There is no indication that Moses blessed Pharaoh; he seemed to admit powerlessness over the plagues but whenever there was relief his heart would immediately harden. He also admitted he had sinned at one point; but clearly showed no sign of true repentance. These bargaining games with God clearly show man attempting to gain favor by his own righteousness; but pride comes before a fall. Such vainglory clearly does not bless a man