8:13
There will be a complete transformation in the life of Israel, and in the way the world looked at her. She was regarded with complete contempt and disdain, she was a byword. This had come about because of her disobedience towards God. The church in the west is regarded similarly today, and much of this is thoroughly deserved. The only way for things to change is if we return to God with our whole heart. Now, we need to realise too that this may bring persecution. The church is meant to be a blessing to the world, but we are only a blessing when we are faithful and obedient to God.
8:14,15
Oh, it is so important that we take these two verses together. We like v15, but are not so keen on v14. However, the judgement is real. Israel knew this, and God had purposefully brought judgement upon Israel. It was absolutely real. So it would be with the blessing, with God’s purpose to bring good to Jerusalem. There are times when we may encounter the Lord’s discipline in our life, these are designed to lead us to times of peace. On the cross God’s judgement was poured out on Jesus. We know it was absolutely real. We can be equally sure that the blessing, the goodness, that flows from the cross and resurrection is equally sure.
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