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Matthew 10: 28-31 Taking care of the sparrows
1. Matthew 10: 28-31 Taking care of the sparrows
2. Matthew 10
3. Romans 8:31 Connecting verse review
Romans 8:31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? [kjv]
τι ουν ερουμεν προς ταυτα ει ο θεος υπερ ημων τις καθ ημων [gnt]
… haec … pro … contra … [v]
This verse is a connecting phrase between two presentation points (groups of verses) and that uses double-meanings of "
above" and "
down" for a segue.
This verse is
not a "
battle cry" or a puffed-up-in-pride "
badge of honor". Some pastors (and others) promote this misconception.
Not: "We are ..." as in "God is for us" as in "better together".
Rather: "We are for God" as in "We want God's will".
The "
word slide" started with the Latin.
4. Romans 8:31 Connecting paraphrase review
Romans 8:31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? [kjv]
τι ουν ερουμεν προς ταυτα ει ο θεος υπερ ημων τις καθ ημων [gnt]
… haec … pro … contra … [v]
Connective paraphrase:
Since God is above us (verses before - these things - above in the text), then who (might it be that) is down on us (following verses and chapters - down below in the text)?
The word slide started with the Latin.
"pro" ≈ "for, on behalf of, in front of".
"contra" ≈ "against, contrary".
5. Review of separation from love of Christ
Romans 8:38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, [kjv]
8:39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. [kjv]
Some pastors will make the bold claim that "
Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ". From the Greek text, the only
"other (different)" "creature" that can separate "
you" from the "
love of Christ" is "
you". So, Paul's list omits "
false teaching", "
deception", and other things that he covers in following chapters.
Discussion: What might be an
ulterior motive as to why a pastor would make such a claim that does not fit the text?
6. Logic summary
Here is a build summary of the steps.
7. Separation build
Here is a build summary of the steps.
8. Matthew 10: 28-31 Taking care of the sparrows
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
The ancient Greek word
"στρουθός" ≈ "sparrow". The "
sparrow" bird appears two times in the
LXX (Septuagint) and four times in the
GNT (Greek New Testament). In the
GNT, the translation is of humans being of "
more value" than the "
sparrows" but the Greek says that you are (or should be) "
different".
Paraphrase:
All the sparrows (of the evil one) who sell themselves (or others) out for earthly gain will fall on that earthly ground because they are without God the Father.
9. Sports teams
| Sports teams with bird names |
| MLB bird name teams |
| Baltimore |
Orioles |
| St. Louis |
Cardinals |
| Toronto |
Blue Jays |
| NFL bird name teams |
| Arizona |
Cardinals |
| Atlanta |
Falcons |
| Baltimore |
Ravens |
| Philadelphia |
Eagles |
| Seattle |
Seahawks |
Not birds: Blackhawks, Red Wings, Flyers, Hornets
|
| Sports teams with bird names |
| NBA bird name teams |
| Atlanta |
Hawks |
| New Orleans |
Pelicans |
| NHL bird name teams |
| Arizona |
Mighty Ducks |
| Atlanta |
Thrashers |
| Pittsburgh |
Penguins |
Many sports teams have bird names.
|
10. Bird offerings
In Luke, Mary and Joseph can offer "
turtle doves" or "
pigeons". English has two words for this bird. Most languages, including Greek, have only one. The name "
turtle dove" comes from the "
tur tur" sound made by the bird.
Luke 2:24 And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. [kjv]
και του δουναι θυσιαν κατα το ειρημενον εν τω νομω κυριου ζευγος τρυγονων η δυο νοσσους περιστερων [gnt]
… turtlan… culfran briddes. [wes]
… turturis… culuer briddis. [wy]
The Old English Wessex Gospels and Wycliffe use the term "
briddis" which appears, in part, to be the origin of the English word "
bride" as a "
young pigeon".
11. Luke 2:24
KJV: And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.
Greek: και του δουναι θυσιαν κατα το ειρημενον εν τω νομω κυριου ζευγος τρυγονων η δυο νεοσσους νοσσους περιστερων
Latin: et ut darent hostiam secundum quod dictum est in lege Domini par turturum aut duos pullos columbarum
Wessex: & þaet hyo offrunge sealden. aefter þan þe drihtnes laege ge-cweðen is. twa turtlan. oððe twa culfran briddes.
Wycliffe: aftir that it is seid in the lawe of the Lord, A peire of turturis, or twei culuer briddis.
Tyndale: and to offer (as it ys sayde in the lawe of the Lorde) a payre of turtle doves or two yonge pigions.
Luther: und daß sie gäben das Opfer, nachdem gesagt ist im Gesetz des Herrn, ein Paar Turteltauben oder zwo junge Tauben.
12. Bird sayings
Here are some bird sayings.
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
As the crow flies
Bird in Hand (town in Pennsylvania)
Bird-brained
Birds of a feather flock together (Aristotle and many others)
Eagle eye (as opposed to bat ears)
Feather your nest
Graceful as a swan
Like a duck to water
Proud as a peacock (very noisy birds)
Take someone under your wing
The early bird catches the worm (the early worm gets eaten by the bird)
Ugly duckling (Hans Christian Anderson)
Wise owl
13. Birds
Some birds compete for the best "
cheap", "
cheap", "
cheap" and go "
cheaper", "
cheaper", "
cheaper".
The "
nest" thing is to cover some bird (or birdbrain) jokes as a special "
tweet" for the reader.
When is the best time to buy a bird?
When it is going cheap. That was a fowl joke.
Why did the little bird get in trouble at school?
He was tweeting on a test.
Perhaps these jokes are "
for the birds". Instead of "
winging it", let us investigate before we go into a "
tail spin".
14. Psalms 84:3 Swallows
Psalms 84:3 Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God. [kjv]
και γαρ στρουθιον ευρεν εαυτω οικιαν και τρυγων νοσσιαν εαυτη ου θησει τα νοσσια αυτης τα θυσιαστηρια σου κυριε των δυναμεων ο βασιλευς μου και ο θεος μου [lxx]
The ancient Greek words used here are
"στρουθός" ≈ "sparrow" and
"τρυγών" ≈ "turtle dove".
Interestingly, in the
GNT, Jesus uses the "
birds" in general and the "
sparrows" in particular as "
evil ones" who can lodge in "
trees" representing "
empires" or "
houses".
What might happen if the "
sparrow" makes a "
nest" in the "
alters" of God?
15. Matthew 7 Houses built on sand and on rock
16. Psalms 84:3
KJV: Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God.
Hebrew: גם צפור מצאה בית ודרור קן לה אשר שתה אפרחיה את מזבחותיך יהוה צבאות מלכי ואלהי׃
Greek: και γαρ στρουθιον ευρεν εαυτω οικιαν και τρυγων νοσσιαν εαυτη ου θησει τα νοσσια αυτης τα θυσιαστηρια σου κυριε των δυναμεων ο βασιλευς μου και ο θεος μου
17. Song: His eye is on the sparrow
The song "
His eye is on the sparrow" was written in 1905 by Civilla D. Martin (1866-1948). Charles H. Gabriel wrote the music. Because of her health, she remained home most of the time.
Born in Canada, she spent most of her life in Atlanta, GA, as a member of the First Christian Church.
In 1904 she wrote "
God will take care of you". Her husband, W. S. Martin (1862-1925) wrote the music.
18. Verse 1
Why should I feel discouraged,
Why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely,
And long for heav’n and home;
When Jesus is my portion?
My constant Friend is he;
His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know he watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know he watches me.
19. Refrain
I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free;
For his eye is on the sparrow,
And I know he watches me.
20. Birds
There are many birds mentioned in the Bible. Most of the references are not in a good sense.
Other birds:
Ostrich
Owl
Rooster and hen (with nest)
21. Birds
Some pages have embedded content about birds.
22. Sennacherib
In 701 BC Hezekiah and Jerusalem miraculously escaped the conquering and destruction of Jerusalem by
Sennacherib, the ruler of Assyria.
Isaiah the prophet was inside the city of Jerusalem during the siege, providing prophecies from God.
This is recorded both in the Bible and in secular history and on an ancient
prism discovered and deciphered. In the Bible, an angel smites 185,000 Assyrian soldiers in one night.
23. Caged birds
On the prism of Sennacherib, Sennacherib recounts how he had trapped Hezekiah in Jerusalem "
like a caged bird" (which was true) but leaving out the overnight disaster and having to retreat. Some secular sources attribute the disaster to a sudden plague, but the two viewpoints had the same effect.
Hezekiah is mentioned by name on the prism. It was during this siege of Jerusalem that the tunnel of Hezekiah was dug to obtain water for Jerusalem.
 |
Details are left as a future topic.
|
24. Jeremiah 5:26-27 Caged birds
Jeremiah 5:26 For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men. [kjv]
5:27 As a cage is full of birds, so are their houses full of deceit: therefore they are become great, and waxen rich. [kjv]
ως παγις εφεσταμενη πληρης πετεινων ουτως οι οικοι αυτων πληρεις δολου δια τουτο εμεγαλυνθησαν και επλουτησαν [lxx]
Apparently the idiom of a "
caged bird" was common in the time of Hezekiah and Sennacherib. Jeremiah uses a similar wording but not in a good sense. The sense is not of a "
cage" but of a "
snare" or "
trap".
25. Caged birds and houses
Jeremiah 5:27 As a cage is full of birds, so are their houses full of deceit: therefore they are become great, and waxen rich. [kjv]
ως παγις εφεσταμενη πληρης πετεινων ουτως οι οικοι αυτων πληρεις δολου δια τουτο εμεγαλυνθησαν και επλουτησαν [lxx]
This idea of "
caged birds" can be compared to the "
Rock of Jesus" and the "
House of Sand" but as a human infrastructure and hierarchy.
That hierarchy can be compared to a tree in whose branches those birds build nests.
26. Jeremiah 5:26
KJV: For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men.
Hebrew: כי נמצאו בעמי רשעים ישור כשך יקושים הציבו משחית אנשים ילכדו׃
Greek: οτι ευρεθησαν εν τω λαω μου ασεβεις και παγιδας εστησαν διαφθειραι ανδρας και συνελαμβανοσαν
Brenton: For amongst my people were found ungodly men; and they have set snares to destroy men, and have caught them.
27. Jeremiah 5:27
KJV: As a cage is full of birds, so are their houses full of deceit: therefore they are become great, and waxen rich.
Hebrew: ככלוב מלא עוף כן בתיהם מלאים מרמה על כן גדלו ויעשירו׃
Greek: ως παγις εφεσταμενη πληρης πετεινων ουτως οι οικοι αυτων πληρεις δολου δια τουτο εμεγαλυνθησαν και επλουτησαν
28. Revelation 18:2 Cagey birds
Revelation 18:2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. [kjv]
και εκραξεν εν ισχυρα φωνη λεγων επεσεν επεσεν βαβυλων η μεγαλη και εγενετο κατοικητηριον δαιμονιων και φυλακη παντος πνευματος ακαθαρτου και φυλακη παντος ορνεου ακαθαρτου και μεμισημενου [gnt]
In Revelation, Babylon is described as a
"watch" of every "
unclean" and "
hateful" type of
"bird". Are they
"watching" those in the
"watch"?
Some Greek manuscripts add a "
beast" as a
land animal.
In Matthew 7, the house built on sand will be "
cut off" and
"fall".
29. Revelation 18:2 Bird watching
Revelation 18:2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. [kjv]
και εκραξεν εν ισχυρα φωνη λεγων επεσεν επεσεν βαβυλων η μεγαλη και εγενετο κατοικητηριον δαιμονιων και φυλακη παντος πνευματος ακαθαρτου και φυλακη παντος ορνεου ακαθαρτου και μεμισημενου [gnt]
The ancient Greek word
"φυλάσσω" ≈ "watch" is related to
"φυλακή" ≈ "watch, prison". The
KJV (King James Version) translates the same word as
"hold" and then
"cage" and takes a viewpoint on who is
"watching" and who is being
"watched".
Discuss: How might the world be a "
cage" or "
watch" for a believer?
The Greek word for "cage" is that of a "prison" as in something that is "watched".
The Greek word for "bird" is not the word used in Matthew but is that of "fowl", as used by John, or "hen", as used in Matthew and Luke.
30. Matthew 13:4,19 Birds and the evil one
At the request of the disciples, Jesus provides the code-word meaning of the "
birds" or "
fowls" as those of the "
wicked one". This happens when one does "
not understand" as in "
deception" (including self-deception).
Matthew 13:4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: [kjv]
13:19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. [kjv]
The "
catcheth away" is related to the word for "
rapture". The
KJV translates as "
evil" or "
wicked" the Greek word that means "
oppression" or "
oppressor".
31. Verse with Greek
Matthew 13:4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: [kjv]
και εν τω σπειρειν αυτον α μεν επεσεν παρα την οδον και ελθοντα τα πετεινα κατεφαγεν αυτα [gnt]
13:19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. [kjv]
παντος ακουοντος τον λογον της βασιλειας και μη συνιεντος ερχεται ο πονηρος και αρπαζει το εσπαρμενον εν τη καρδια αυτου ουτος εστιν ο παρα την οδον σπαρεις [gnt]
The Greek for "
snatch away" is the word used for "
rapture" and the source of the English word
"harpoon". It is also used as "
ravenous" in terms of "
wolves".
The "
seed" that was "
snatched away" in parable 1 appears to have been deposited (by the
"birds") in parable 2 as "
weeds" and then grows into a "
tree" in parable 3 so that those "
birds" have a place to make their "
nests".
32. Kingdom of the birds
Matthew 6:26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? [kjv]
εμβλεψατε εις τα πετεινα του ουρανου οτι ου σπειρουσιν ουδε θεριζουσιν ουδε συναγουσιν εις αποθηκας και ο πατηρ υμων ο ουρανιος τρεφει αυτα ουχ υμεις μαλλον διαφερετε αυτων [gnt]
The step omitted by Jesus is the "
grow" part. The "
birds" work the growing harvest by "
pecking" and taking part of the harvest (first parable), and, in turn, sowing "
weeds" (second parable). You are "
rather different" (at least you should be). The
KJV, influenced by the Latin, says "
much better".
The "
birds" are used by Jesus as a symbol of "
false teachers" who "
prey", rather than "
pray", on others. The "
wolf" or "
wolf-dog", as contrasted to a "
sheep-dog", and the "
snake" or "
viper" appear to be used in the same manner.
33. The reign/rain of Jesus
Matthew 5:45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. [kjv]
7:25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. [kjv]
7:27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. [kjv]
Jesus says that the Father sends rain on both the
just and the
unjust. Some of that "
rain" is sent on houses built on "
sand" and on "
rock", with different results.
34. Matthew 5:45
KJV: That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
Greek: οπως γενησθε υιοι του πατρος υμων του εν ουρανοις οτι τον ηλιον αυτου ανατελλει επι πονηρους και αγαθους και βρεχει επι δικαιους και αδικους
Geneva: That ye may be the children of your father that is in heauen: for he maketh his sunne to arise on the euill, and the good, and sendeth raine on the iust, and vniust.
35. Sparrows and asparagus
Do
sparrows eat
asparagus?
The English word
"asparagus" comes, through French and Latin, from the ancient Greek word
"ἀσφάραγος" ≈ "asparagus" which appears to have a pre-Greek origin.
Because of the sound of the word "
asparagus" some in England would call it "
sparrow grass". This is just a folk etymology for similar sounding words.
An asparagus plant can be extensive. Birds eating the seeds as the plant goes to seed might give the impression that it is, indeed, "
grass for sparrows" or "
sparrow grass".
36. Sparrows and asparagus
The "asparagus" or "sparrow grass" is green and might be considered "fruit" as in "fruit of the grass"
The "sparrow" is a "bird" and eats the "fruit" or "fruit of the grass".
In the Bible, the bird is seldom mentioned in a good sense. Jesus in particular uses the "
bird" as a symbol of those of the "
evil one" or of "
oppression". The Greek word for "
oppression" is often translated as "
evil". The Hebrew word for evil appears to be connected with birds such as vultures (eagles are like vultures in many respects).
37. Matthew 10:29-31
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
ουχι δυο στρουθια ασσαριου πωλειται και εν εξ αυτων ου πεσειται επι την γην ανευ του πατρος υμων [gnt]
10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
υμων δε και αι τριχες της κεφαλης πασαι ηριθμημεναι εισιν [gnt]
10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
μη ουν φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε υμεις [gnt]
What is a/the "hair"?
What is a/the "head"?
38. Luke 12:6-7
Luke 12:6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? [kjv]
ουχι πεντε στρουθια πωλουνται ασσαριων δυο και εν εξ αυτων ουκ εστιν επιλελησμενον ενωπιον του θεου [gnt]
12:7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
αλλα και αι τριχες της κεφαλης υμων πασαι ηριθμηνται μη φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε [gnt]
Luke correctly reports what people remembered as to the meaning of what Jesus said, sometimes using other words. This sometimes loses the additional meanings as recorded in Matthew.
Luke talks of "
sparrows" and them not being "
forgotten" by God.
39. Matthew and Luke
1 Jesus teaches people
2 Matthew writes Gospel
3 Luke writes Gospel
Luke records and correctly reports what people remembered as to the meaning of what Jesus said, sometimes using other words. This often loses the additional meanings as recorded in Matthew.
40. Differences
Many of the differences between Matthew and Luke can be explained by the context in which each was written.
Jesus: Jew, spoke Aramaic and Greek.
Matthew: Jew, spoke Aramaic and Greek, eyewitness, took notes.
Luke: Greek, spoke Greek, interviewed eyewitnesses about their memory.
41. Luke and Matthew
Luke 12:6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? [kjv]
ουχι πεντε στρουθια πωλουνται ασσαριων δυο και εν εξ αυτων ουκ εστιν επιλελησμενον ενωπιον του θεου [gnt]
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
ουχι δυο στρουθια ασσαριου πωλειται και εν εξ αυτων ου πεσειται επι την γην ανευ του πατρος υμων [gnt]
Apparently the price of sparrows changed over time. Maybe Matthew had a "
two for one" special - not the same as a
BOGO (Buy One Get One) free.
Listed price for one: $10.
Tag: 2 for $10. You can buy 1 for $5.
Tag: BOGO: $10. Must buy 1 for $10 to get 1 free.
42. Coins
The ancient Greek word
"ἀσσάριον" ≈ "Roman coin made of bronze" is from the Latin word
"assarius" ≈ "Roman coin". There are many Greek words for different coins. This word has an onomatopoeic sound and meaning of a bird fluttering about and fits the English expression "
sing like a bird" (which can be good or bad).
| Some coins in the GNT |
| assarius |
Roman coin |
Matthew 10:29 |
| denarius |
Roman coin |
Matthew 18:28 |
| didiracma |
Tyre coin |
Matthew 17:24 |
| drachma |
in the hand |
|
| lepton |
widow's mite |
Matthew 15:8 |
| shekel |
Tyre coin |
temple tax |
| quadrans |
Roman coin |
Matthew 5:25 |
|
The ancient Greek word "ᾄσσω" ≈ "move quickly, dart, flutter". One meaning is a "move to attack". Another meaning is that of "rush eagerly" as in an investigation or to acquire someone's assets.
|
43. Luke 12:6
KJV: Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?
Greek: ουχι πεντε στρουθια πωλειται πωλουνται ασσαριων δυο και εν εξ αυτων ουκ εστιν επιλελησμενον ενωπιον του θεου
44. Matthew 10:29-30 Sell out
Matthew 10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
υμων δε και αι τριχες της κεφαλης πασαι ηριθμημεναι εισιν [gnt]
What is the difference in the following?
"Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing (song).".
"Are not two sparrows bought for a farthing (song).".
*G4453 *22 πωλέω (po-leh'-o) : probably ultimately from pelomai (to be busy, to trade); to barter (as a pedlar), i.e. to sell:--sell, whatever is sold.
The ancient Greek word
"πωλέω" ≈ "sell" as in "
levy taxes",
"sell an office" or
"betray". This word often has negative connotations as sometimes does the English phrase
"sell out". A marketing phrase is from the Latin phrase
"caveat emptor" ≈ "let the buyer beware".
45. Strongs - sell out
- *G4453 *22 πωλέω (po-leh'-o) : probably ultimately from pelomai (to be busy, to trade); to barter (as a pedlar), i.e. to sell:--sell, whatever is sold.
- πωλουντας *5
- Matthew 21:12 ... cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,
- Matthew 25:9 ... go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.
- Mark 11:15 ... to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves;
- Luke 19:45 ... and began to cast out them that sold therein, and them that bought;
- John 2:14 And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep ...
- πωλησον *3
- Matthew 19:21 ... be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, ...
- Mark 10:21 ... thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and ...
- Luke 18:22 ... lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, ...
- πωλουντων *2
- Matthew 21:12 ... cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,
- Mark 11:15 ... to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves;
- πωλειται
- Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one ...
- πωλει
- Matthew 13:44 ... thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, ...
- πωλουνται
- Luke 12:6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, ...
- πωλησατε
- Luke 12:33 Sell that ye have, and give ...
- επωλουν
- Luke 17:28 ... they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;
- πωλησατω
- Luke 22:36 ... hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.
- πωλουσιν
- John 2:16 And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things ...
- πωλουντες
- Acts 4:34 ... of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,
- πωλησας
- Acts 4:37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, ...
- επωλησεν
- Acts 5:1 ... Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,
- πωλουμενον
- 1 Corinthians 10:25 Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking ...
- πωλησαι
- Revelation 13:17 ... might buy or sell, save he that had ...
46. Usage - sell out
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Words: επωλησεν επωλουν πωλει πωλειται πωλησαι πωλησας πωλησατε πωλησατω πωλησον=3 πωλουμενον πωλουνται πωλουντας=5 πωλουντες πωλουντων=2 πωλουσιν
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47. Selling
Matthew 13:46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. [kjv]
ευρων δε ενα πολυτιμον μαργαριτην απελθων πεπρακεν παντα οσα ειχεν και ηγορασεν αυτον [gnt]
Acts 2:45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. [kjv]
και τα κτηματα και τας υπαρξεις επιπρασκον και διεμεριζον αυτα πασιν καθοτι αν τις χρειαν ειχεν [gnt]
There is another ancient Greek word for
"sell" that does not have the negative connotations. The ancient Greek word
"πιπράσκω" ≈ "sell". The "
sell" is often for "
export" - the usual connotation of "
sell" as "
giving up" or "
going out".
*G4097 *9 πιπράσκω (pip-ras'-ko) : prao prah'-o; (which occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses) contracted from perao (to traverse; from the base of G4008); to traffic (by travelling), i.e. dispose of as merchandise or into slavery (literally or figuratively):--sell.
48. Acts 2:45
KJV: And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
Greek: και τα κτηματα και τας υπαρξεις επιπρασκον και διεμεριζον αυτα πασιν καθοτι αν τις χρειαν ειχεν
49. Strongs - sell
- *G4097 *9 πιπράσκω (pip-ras'-ko) : prao prah'-o; (which occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses) contracted from perao (to traverse; from the base of G4008); to traffic (by travelling), i.e. dispose of as merchandise or into slavery (literally or figuratively):--sell.
- πραθηναι *3
- Matthew 18:25 ... lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, ...
- Matthew 26:9 For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor.
- Mark 14:5 For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, ...
- πεπρακεν
- Matthew 13:46 ... pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, ...
- επραθη
- John 12:5 Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, ...
- επιπρασκον
- Acts 2:45 And sold their possessions and goods, and ...
- πιπρασκομενων
- Acts 4:34 ... sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,
- πραθεν
- Acts 5:4 ... not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in ...
- πεπραμενος
- Romans 7:14 ... I am carnal, sold under sin.
50. Usage - sell
 |
Words: επιπρασκον επραθη πεπρακεν πεπραμενος πιπρασκομενων πραθεν πραθηναι=3
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The ancient Greek word
"πιπράσκω" ≈ "sell".
51. Matthew 13:46
KJV: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.
Greek: ος ευρων δε ενα πολυτιμον μαργαριτην απελθων πεπρακεν παντα οσα ειχεν και ηγορασεν αυτον
52. Strongs - fall
- *G4098 *89 πίπτω (pip'-to) : peto pet'-o; (which occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses); probably akin to G4072 through the idea of alighting; to fall (literally or figuratively):--fail, fall (down), light on.
- επεσεν *29
- Matthew 7:25 ... that house; and it fell not: for it was founded ...
- Matthew 7:27 ... that house; and it fell: and great was ...
- Matthew 13:4 ... he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and ...
- Matthew 13:5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had ...
- Matthew 13:7 And some fell among thorns; and ...
- Matthew 13:8 But other fell into good ground, ...
- Matthew 26:39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, ...
- Mark 4:4 ... as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and ...
- Mark 4:5 And some fell on stony ground, where ...
- Mark 4:7 And some fell among thorns, and ...
- Mark 4:8 And other fell on good ground, ...
- Luke 8:5 ... he sowed, some fell by the way side; and ...
- Luke 8:7 And some fell among thorns; and ...
- Luke 8:8 And other fell on good ground, ...
- Luke 13:4 ... the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, ...
- Luke 17:16 And fell down on his face at his ...
- John 11:32 ... was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, ...
- Acts 1:26 ... lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and ...
- Acts 5:10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, ...
- Acts 13:11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon ...
- Acts 20:9 ... he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and ...
- Hebrews 3:17 ... with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?
- Revelation 8:10 ... sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part ...
- Revelation 11:13 ... and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake ...
- Revelation 14:8 ... saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, ...
- Revelation 18:2 ... Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become ...
- πεσων *12
- Matthew 4:9 ... will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.
- Matthew 18:26 The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, ...
- Matthew 18:29 And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, ...
- Mark 9:20 ... tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.
- Luke 5:12 ... of leprosy: who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought ...
- Luke 8:41 ... a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, ...
- Luke 20:18 Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
- John 12:24 ... Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, ...
- Acts 5:5 ... hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great ...
- Acts 9:4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice ...
- Acts 10:25 ... Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.
- 1 Corinthians 14:25 ... manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship ...
- επεσαν *12
- Matthew 17:6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, ...
- John 18:6 ... he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.
- 1 Corinthians 10:8 ... of them committed, and fell in one day ...
- Hebrews 11:30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.
- Revelation 5:8 ... four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having ...
- Revelation 5:14 ... the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth ...
- Revelation 6:13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as ...
- Revelation 7:11 ... the four beasts, and fell before the throne on ...
- Revelation 11:16 ... on their seats, fell upon their faces, ...
- Revelation 16:19 ... and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon ...
- Revelation 17:10 ... seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, ...
- Revelation 19:4 ... and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God ...
- πιπτει *5
- Matthew 17:15 ... vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and ...
- Mark 5:22 ... and when he saw him, he fell at his feet,
- Luke 11:17 ... a house divided against a house falleth.
- Romans 14:4 ... master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for ...
- 1 Corinthians 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, ...
- πεσουνται *4
- Matthew 15:14 ... lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.
- Matthew 24:29 ... light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and ...
- Luke 21:24 And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive ...
- Revelation 4:10 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat ...
- πεση *4
- Luke 20:18 Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
- 1 Corinthians 10:12 ... he standeth take heed lest he fall.
- Hebrews 4:11 ... rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.
- Revelation 7:16 ... more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor ...
- επεσα *4
- Acts 22:7 And I fell unto the ground, and heard ...
- Revelation 1:17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet ...
- Revelation 19:10 And I fell at his feet to worship ...
- Revelation 22:8 ... I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet ...
- πεσειται *2
- Matthew 10:29 ... of them shall not fall on the ground ...
- Luke 14:5 And answered them, saying, Which of you ...
- πιπτοντων *2
- Matthew 15:27 ... eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table.
- Luke 16:21 ... with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: ...
- πεσοντες
- Matthew 2:11 ... his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when ...
- πιπτοντες
- Mark 13:25 And the stars of heaven shall fall, and ...
- επιπτεν
- Mark 14:35 And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and ...
- συνεπεσεν
- Luke 6:49 ... did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that ...
- πεσον
- Luke 8:14 And that which fell among thorns are ...
- πεσοντα
- Luke 10:18 ... Satan as lightning fall from heaven.
- πεσειν
- Luke 16:17 ... one tittle of the law to fail.
- πεσατε
- Luke 23:30 Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and ...
- πεπτωκυιαν
- Acts 15:16 ... the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins ...
- πεσωσιν
- Romans 11:11 I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through ...
- πεσοντας
- Romans 11:22 ... severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward ...
- πεσητε
- James 5:12 ... your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.
- πεπτωκες
- Revelation 2:5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, ...
- πεσετε
- Revelation 6:16 ... to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and ...
- πεπτωκοτα
- Revelation 9:1 ... and I saw a star fall from heaven unto ...
53. Usage - fall
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Words: επεσα=4 επεσαν=12 επεσεν=29 επιπτεν πεπτωκες πεπτωκοτα πεπτωκυιαν πεσατε πεσειν πεσειται=2 πεσετε πεση=4 πεσητε πεσον πεσοντα πεσοντας πεσοντες πεσουνται=4 πεσων=12 πεσωσιν πιπτει=5 πιπτοντες πιπτοντων=2 συνεπεσεν
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54. Take the fall
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
ουχι δυο στρουθια ασσαριου πωλειται και εν εξ αυτων ου πεσειται επι την γην ανευ του πατρος υμων [gnt]
*G4098 *89 πίπτω (pip'-to) : peto pet'-o; (which occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses); probably akin to G4072 through the idea of alighting; to fall (literally or figuratively):--fail, fall (down), light on.
The ancient Greek word
"πίπτω" ≈ "fall, throw oneself down". A bird may sometimes fall. How often does a bird "
throw oneself down"? Might the bird "
take the fall"?
Amos 3:5 Can a bird fall in a snare upon the earth, where no gin is for him? shall one take up a snare from the earth, and have taken nothing at all? [kjv]
ει πεσειται ορνεον επι την γην ανευ ιξευτου ει σχασθησεται παγις επι της γης ανευ του συλλαβειν τι [lxx]
Will a bird fall on the earth without a fowler? will a snare be taken up from the earth without having taken anything? [bs3]
55. Amos 3:5
KJV: Can a bird fall in a snare upon the earth, where no gin is for him? shall one take up a snare from the earth, and have taken nothing at all?
Hebrew: התפל צפור על פח הארץ ומוקש אין לה היעלה פח מן האדמה ולכוד לא ילכוד׃
Greek: ει πεσειται ορνεον επι την γην ανευ ιξευτου ει σχασθησεται παγις επι της γης ανευ του συλλαβειν τι
Brenton: Will a bird fall on the earth without a fowler? will a snare be taken up from the earth without having taken anything?
56. Genesis 49:17 Dan
The Hebrew word for "
Dan" means "
judge" as in "
Daniel" meaning "
God be my judge". Dan is associated with the "
serpent" but, later, associated with the "
eagle". The Hebrew word for "
evil" is associated with birds of prey such as the "
vulture".
Genesis 49:17 Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward. [kjv]
και γενηθητω δαν οφις εφ οδου εγκαθημενος επι τριβου δακνων πτερναν ιππου και πεσειται ο ιππευς εις τα οπισω [lxx]
Dan is causing the rider of the horse to "
fall". Which horse might that be and who might be the rider?
The tribe of "
Dan" was associated with the direction "
north" which was considered "
sinister" and "
evil".
The "
adder" was originally "
nadder" before the leading "
n" was dropped. So too for "
numpire" going to "
umpire".
57. Genesis 49:17
KJV: Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward.
Hebrew: יהי דן נחש עלי דרך שפיפן עלי ארח הנשך עקבי סוס ויפל רכבו אחור׃
Greek: και γενηθητω δαν οφις εφ οδου εγκαθημενος επι τριβου δακνων πτερναν ιππου και πεσειται ο ιππευς εις τα οπισω
58. Numbers 14:29,32 Falling in the wilderness
59. Numbers 14:29
KJV: Your carcases shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward, which have murmured against me,
Hebrew: במדבר הזה יפלו פגריכם וכל פקדיכם לכל מספרכם מבן עשרים שנה ומעלה אשר הלינתם עלי׃
Greek: εν τη ερημω ταυτη πεσειται τα κωλα υμων και πασα η επισκοπη υμων και οι κατηριθμημενοι υμων απο εικοσαετους και επανω οσοι εγογγυσαν επ εμοι
60. Numbers 14:32
KJV: But as for you, your carcases, they shall fall in this wilderness.
Hebrew: ופגריכם אתם יפלו במדבר הזה׃
Greek: και τα κωλα υμων πεσειται εν τη ερημω ταυτη
61. Falling into ditches
Psalms 7:15 He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch which he made. [kjv]
λακκον ωρυξεν και ανεσκαψεν αυτον και εμπεσειται εις βοθρον ον ειργασατο [lxx]
Matthew 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [kjv]
αφετε αυτους τυφλοι εισιν οδηγοι τυφλος δε τυφλον εαν οδηγη αμφοτεροι εις βοθυνον πεσουνται [gnt]
Those who "
sell out" others, for example, may "
fall" into the very ditch that was made. An English saying is to "
sleep in the bed that you made". Haman does this in Esther when he has a gallows made for Mordecai ... but ends up being hanged on it himself.
Esther 7:10 So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified. [kjv]
και εκρεμασθη αμαν επι του ξυλου ο ητοιμασεν μαρδοχαιω και τοτε ο βασιλευς εκοπασεν του θυμου [lxx]
The more general idea is that of "
mammon" which is a confidence in oneself and not God.
62. Psalms 7:15
KJV: He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch which he made.
Hebrew: בור כרה ויחפרהו ויפל בשחת יפעל׃
Greek: λακκον ωρυξεν και ανεσκαψεν αυτον και εμπεσειται εις βοθρον ον ειργασατο
63. Matthew 15:14
KJV: Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.
Greek: αφετε αυτους οδηγοι εισιν τυφλοι τυφλων εισιν οδηγοι τυφλος δε τυφλον εαν οδηγη αμφοτεροι εις βοθυνον πεσουνται
64. Esther 7:10
KJV: So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified.
Hebrew: ויתלו את המן על העץ אשר הכין למרדכי וחמת המלך שככה׃
Greek: και εκρεμασθη αμαν επι του ξυλου ο ητοιμασεν μαρδοχαιω και τοτε ο βασιλευς εκοπασεν του θυμου
65. Falling into riches
Proverbs 11:28 He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch. [kjv]
ο πεποιθως επι πλουτω ουτος πεσειται ο δε αντιλαμβανομενος δικαιων ουτος ανατελει [lxx]
Those who "
trust in riches" shall "
fall". They may also "
sell out" others to increase their "
riches" through their "
love of money".
1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. [kjv]
ριζα γαρ παντων των κακων εστιν η φιλαργυρια ης τινες ορεγομενοι απεπλανηθησαν απο της πιστεως και εαυτους περιεπειραν οδυναις πολλαις [gnt]
Discuss: If the "
love of money" is the root of all evil (oppression), then why many churches so interested in getting money? Are churches interested in getting money? Explain.
66. Proverbs 11:28
KJV: He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.
Hebrew: בוטח בעשרו הוא יפל וכעלה צדיקים יפרחו׃
Greek: ο πεποιθως επι πλουτω ουτος πεσειται ο δε αντιλαμβανομενος δικαιων ουτος ανατελει
67. 1 Timothy 6:10
KJV: For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Greek: ριζα γαρ παντων των κακων εστιν η φιλαργυρια ης τινες ορεγομενοι απεπλανηθησαν απο της πιστεως και εαυτους περιεπειραν οδυναις πολλαις
68. Matthew 10:29
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
ουχι δυο στρουθια ασσαριου πωλειται και εν εξ αυτων ου πεσειται επι την γην ανευ του πατρος υμων [gnt]
This verse appears to have at least two meanings.
The literal meaning that is usually taught is something along the lines that "
the sparrows are of low status but even God does not forget them when they fall to the ground" (and may even keep them from falling).
Luke changes the "
fall on the ground" to "
forgotten" which somewhat lessens the second (and important) meaning.
Let us consider another meaning. First, some background is needed.
69. One cookie rule
Growing up, the siblings would often leave the last cookie, piece of cake, etc., not eaten (which annoyed mom).
So, if we were asked "
Did you eat all of the cookies?" we could say, "
No, I did not have one of them". If pressed, we could point to the "
one" cookie that we did
not eat. If we had eaten than
one, then they would be
all (i.e., gone).
Sometimes it is the "
one cookie" that is
not eaten that is important.
There are two general forms of the "
one cookie rule" where the
exceptions are important.
"not one cookie ..." (negative statement)
"one cookie ..." (positive statement)
In general, this is called an "
equivocation" in that it could deceive the listener. Equivocations can be used to hide double meanings as in a code or secret code.
Equivocations can be used as jokes which some people like and some do not.
70. Oracle of Delphi
Confirmation bias is present in the prophecy of the
Oracle of Delphi in response to the Greek
Croesus, King of Lydia, rich from the gold at Sardus (mentioned in the book of Revelation in the Bible as one of the seven churches of ancient times).
Croesus, King of Lydia, wanted to know if he should go to war against Persia under Cyrus the Great (conqueror of Babylon, the morning after Daniel interpreted the handwriting on the wall). The Oracle of Delphi told Croesus that "
if he went to war, a great empire would be destroyed". Like many humans, Croesus heard what he wanted to hear. He went to war, and
his great empire was destroyed (as well as himself).
Herodotus.
The ancient Greek word
" Κροῖσος" ≈ "Croesus".
71. Taking care of Star Wars
In the Star Wars series of movies, at one point,
Darth Sidious (the evil leader) tells Neimoidian Nute Gunray (Viceroy of the Trade Federation) that "
When my new apprentice, Darth Vader, arrives, he will take care of you", in
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. They feel comforted. When Darth Vader gets there, he wipes them out.
This adds new meaning when neighbors ask you to "
take care of their cat" while they are away. [Darth Kitious]
Trust the force. The empire will take care of you. Appropriate response about privacy intrusion in the guise of security:
I have nothing to hide from those I trust. A related idea is "
taking care of business".
72. Wasps
Is this wasp spray good for wasps?
No. It kills them.
God is good. Is God good for you?
(discuss)
Might this change the meaning of "
God will take care of you"? Is that "
reward" good or bad? What is a "
just reward"? What is "
recompense"? Do you get "
stressed" thinking about just "
desserts"? How are the words "
stressed" and "
desserts" related?
73. Song: God will take care of you
The song "
God will take care of you" was written in 1904 by Civilla D. Martin (1866-1948). Her husband, W. S. Martin (1862-1925) wrote the music. Because of her health, she remained home most of the time.
In 1905 she wrote "
His eye is on the sparrow". Charles H. Gabriel wrote the music.
Born in Canada, she spent most of her life in Atlanta, GA, as a member of the First Christian Church.
74. Verse 1
Be not dismayed whate’er betide,
God will take care of you;
Beneath his wings of love abide,
God will take care of you.
God will take care of you,
through ev'ry day, o’er all the way;
He will take care of you,
God will take care of you.
75. Verse 3
No matter what may be the test,
God will take care of you;
Lean, weary one, upon his breast,
God will take care of you.
God will take care of you,
through ev'ry day, o’er all the way;
He will take care of you,
God will take care of you.
76. Sparrow build
The color
green represents the
green asparagus which are
fruit of the grass and are
with God . The color
red represents the
red sparrows which are
without God.
1 Pairs 1
2 Pairs 2
3 Pairs 3
4 Pairs 4
5 Pairs 5
6 Pairs 6
7 Pairs 7
8 Pairs 8
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
77. Matthew 10:29 Not one sparrow
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
Here then is a paraphrase that fits the specific context of the verse and the general idea of birds being the of the evil one.
The "
one cookie rule" can be applied here.
Paraphrase:
All the sparrows (of the evil one) who sell themselves (or others) out for earthly gain will fall on that earthly ground because they are without God the Father.
Discuss: Provide instances of people (as sparrows) selling themselves (or others) out for money. This could be influence peddling, pay for play, etc.
78. Two sparrows
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
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Tree hierarchy
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Organization
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Jesus
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The idea does not work well with
one sparrow. The number
two works much better.
If there were
one individual sparrow selling out (for a
song), it might be just
one of many in the organization. With
two sparrows, there is some collusion and cooperation is in a hierarchical organizational structure.
These hierarchical organizational tree structures tend to have a "
pecking order" in the "
food chain". The bigger birds of prey are near the top. The smaller birds are at the bottom. All pick and peck the fruit from those working at the bottom.
Go back to the previous verse.
79. Matthew 10:28 Soul and body
Matthew 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. [kjv]
και μη φοβεισθε απο των αποκτεινοντων το σωμα την δε ψυχην μη δυναμενων αποκτειναι φοβεισθε δε μαλλον τον δυναμενον και ψυχην και σωμα απολεσαι εν γεεννη [gnt]
Jesus tells us who we should
"fear" and it is not
"fear" about the
cares and
concerns of this world. The most dangerous attacks are not from the outside but from the inside and involve
deception.
One cannot "
destroy the soul" by "
killing" the body is in persecution (e.g., by the Roman administrations). The primary way to "
destroy the soul" is through
deception so that you "
sell yourself out" or are "
sold out".
Jesus provides an example in the
next verse.
80. Matthew 10:29-31 Soul and body
81. Matthew 10:28
KJV: And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Greek: και μη φοβηθητε φοβεισθε απο των αποκτεινοντων το σωμα την δε ψυχην μη δυναμενων αποκτειναι φοβηθητε φοβεισθε δε μαλλον τον δυναμενον και ψυχην και σωμα απολεσαι εν γεεννη
82. Matthew Context after
Go forward to the next two verses. First, verse 30.
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
υμων δε και αι τριχες της κεφαλης πασαι ηριθμημεναι εισιν [gnt]
Ephesians 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: [kjv]
αληθευοντες δε εν αγαπη αυξησωμεν εις αυτον τα παντα ος εστιν η κεφαλη χριστος [gnt]
On careful analysis, the "
head" appears to represent the "
head of Christ" as "
head of the church" and the "
hairs" are the "
believers" who are all counted. Thus, the jokes about being "
bald" are from the literal meaning of the words.
83. Matthew 10:31 Context after
Matthew 10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
μη ουν φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε υμεις [gnt]
Verse 31 paraphrase (using the correct Greek meaning):
You are different than sparrows. The "
many" is not in the Greek.
The "
different" in Greek was changed to "
better" in the Latin and then "
more value" in the English.
84. Matthew 10:29
KJV: Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.
Greek: ουχι δυο στρουθια ασσαριου πωλειται και εν εξ αυτων ου πεσειται επι την γην ανευ του πατρος υμων
85. Matthew 10:30
KJV: But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
Greek: υμων δε και αι τριχες της κεφαλης πασαι ηριθμημεναι εισιν
86. Ephesians 4:15
KJV: But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
Greek: αληθευοντες δε εν αγαπη αυξησωμεν εις αυτον τα παντα ος εστιν η κεφαλη ο χριστος
87. Matthew 10:31
KJV: Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.
Greek: μη ουν φοβηθητε φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε υμεις
88. Matthew 10:32-33 Confess or deny
Continue with the next two verses.
Matthew 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. [kjv]
πας ουν οστις ομολογησει εν εμοι εμπροσθεν των ανθρωπων ομολογησω καγω εν αυτω εμπροσθεν του πατρος μου του εν τοις ουρανοις [gnt]
omnis … confitebitur … coram … confitebor … coram … [v]
10:33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. [kjv]
These two verses address the issue both ways.
confess or
deny. Discuss:
Are "confess" and "deny", as used by Jesus, opposites?
If you "sell out" to the world, have you "denied" Christ?
How might one be deceived into either "not confessing" or "denying" without knowing that that is what one is really doing?
How might a "misinterpretation" of these verses be a "net" spread out for "birds"?
89. Proverbs 1:17 Birds and nets
Proverbs 1:17 Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. [kjv]
ου γαρ αδικως εκτεινεται δικτυα πτερωτοις [lxx]
for nets are not without cause spread for birds. [bs3]
The
Epistle of Barnabas interprets birds and nets from Proverbs 1:17 in the
LXX.
A bird net works much better if there is some food on which the birds desire to eat. It might be "
deceptive" food.
English: Now the scripture says: "Not unjustly are nets spread out for the birds". This means that people deserve to perish if, having knowledge of the way of righteousness, they ensnare themselves in the way of darkness. (1.4, Holmes, p. 393)
Greek: [1.4] λέγει δὲ ἡ γραφή Οὐκ ἀδίκως ἐκτείνεται δίκτυα πτερωτοῖς. τοῦτο λέγει, ὅτι δικαιως ἀπολεῖται ἄνθρωπος, ὃς ἔχων ὁδοῦ δικαιοσύνης γνῶσιν ἑαυτὸν εἰς ὁδὸν σκότους ἀποσυνέχει.
90. Proverbs 1:17
KJV: Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird.
Hebrew: כי חנם מזרה הרשת בעיני כל בעל כנף׃
Greek: ου γαρ αδικως εκτεινεται δικτυα πτερωτοις
Brenton: for nets are not without cause spread for birds.
91. Barnabas: Behavior of birds
English: Neither shall you eat the eagle or the hawk or the kite or the crow. You must not, he means, associate or even resemble such people, who do not know how to provide food for themselves by labor and sweat but lawlessly plunder other people's property; indeed, though they walk about with the appearance of innocence, they are carefully watching and looking around for someone to rob in their greed, just as these birds alone do not provide food for themselves but sit idle and look for ways to eat the flesh of others - they are nothing more than pests in their wickedness. (10.4, Holmes, p. 411)
Barnabas makes the case that the Jews changed the "
moral" laws given by God to
Moses into "
dietary" laws to circumvent what God wanted. The word "
associate" is the Greek word for "
glued to" or "
joined together", the same word Jesus uses for husband and wife becoming "
one flesh".
Greek: [10.4] Οὐδὲ φάγῃ τὸν ἀετὸν οὐδὲ τὸν ὀξύπτερον οὐδὲ τὸν ἰκτῖνα οὐδὲ τὸν κόρακα οὐ μή, φησίν, κολληθήσῃ οὐδὲ ὁμοιωθήσῃ ἀνθρώποις τοιούτοις, οἵτινες οὐκ οἴδασιν διὰ κόπου καὶ ἰδρῶτος προίζειν ἑαυτοῖς τὴν τροφήν, ἀλλὰ ἁρπάζουσιν ὡς καὶ τὰ ἀλλότρια ἐν ἀνομίᾳ αὐτῶν καὶ ἐπιτηροῦσιν ὡς ἐν ἀκεραιοσύνῃ περιπατοῦντες καὶ περιβλέπονται, τίνα ἐκδύσωσιν διὰ τὴν πλεονεξίαν, ὡς καὶ τὰ ὄρνεα ταῦτα μόνα ἑαυτοῖς οὐ προίζει τὴν τροφήν, ἀλλὰ ἀργὰ καθήμενα ἐκζητεῖ, πῶς ἀλλοτρίας σάρκας καταφάγῃ, ὄντα λοιμὰ τῇ πονηρίᾳ αὐτῶν.
The ancient Greek word
"κόλλα" ≈ "glue, flower paste".
The translation is that one should not
"associate" with such people. The Greek is that of
"glue yourself" to such people.
92. Psalms 102:6-7 Birds
93. Psalms 124:7 Escape the net
Psalms 124:7 Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped. [kjv]
η ψυχη ημων ως στρουθιον ερρυσθη εκ της παγιδος των θηρευοντων η παγις συνετριβη και ημεις ερρυσθημεν [lxx]
If you can see through the deception, you can escape the snare.
94. Prisoners
The best way to keep a prisoner from escaping is to make sure he never knows he's in prison. Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881), author of
Crime and punishment.
Russian: Фёдор Михайлович Достоевский (1821-1881)
Analogy:
The best way to keep people separated from the love of Christ is to not let them know they have separated themselves from the love of Christ.
One way:
Convince the people that nothing can separate them from the love of Christ. Therefore, they do not need to worry about anything.
95. Lies
A society should be judged not by how it treats its outstanding citizens but by how it treats its criminals. Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881).
Above all, don't lie to yourself. The man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to a point that he cannot distinguish the truth within him, or around him, and so loses all respect for himself and for others. And having no respect he ceases to love. Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) from
The brothers Karamazov.
96. Psalms 102:6
KJV: I am like a pelican of the wilderness: I am like an owl of the desert.
Hebrew: דמיתי לקאת מדבר הייתי ככוס חרבות׃
Greek: ωμοιωθην πελεκανι ερημικω εγενηθην ωσει νυκτικοραξ εν οικοπεδω
97. Psalms 124:7
KJV: Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped.
Hebrew: נפשנו כצפור נמלטה מפח יוקשים הפח נשבר ואנחנו נמלטנו׃
Greek: η ψυχη ημων ως στρουθιον ερρυσθη εκ της παγιδος των θηρευοντων η παγις συνετριβη και ημεις ερρυσθημεν
98. Luke 12:7 Hairs are numbered
Luke 12:7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
αλλα και αι τριχες της κεφαλης υμων πασαι ηριθμηνται μη φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε [gnt]
Luke says that our hairs are numbered. Some men do not have many hairs to count. On careful analysis, the "
head" appears to represent the "
head of Christ" as "
head of the church" and the "
hairs" are the "
believers" who are all counted. Thus, the jokes about being "
bald" are from the literal meaning of the words.
The Greek translated as "
more value" has the meaning of "
different" in the sense of being "
distinguished" as being different.
99. Luke 12:7
KJV: But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.
Greek: αλλα και αι τριχες της κεφαλης υμων πασαι ηριθμηνται μη ουν φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε
100. Song: Count your blessings
The song "
Count your blessings" was written in 1897 by Johnson Oatman, Jr.(1856-1922) from New Jersey. He worked in the mercantile business, in the life insurance business, and served as a local preacher. He wrote over 3,000 hymns. The tune is by E. O. Excell (1851-1921).
101. Verse 1
When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
102. Verse 3
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings, money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
103. Psalms 102:7
KJV: I watch, and am as a sparrow alone upon the house top.
Hebrew: שקדתי ואהיה כצפור בודד על גג׃
Greek: ηγρυπνησα και εγενηθην ωσει στρουθιον μοναζον επι δωματι
104. Matthew 10:29,31 All the sparrows
Matthew 10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
μη ουν φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε υμεις [gnt]
Paraphrase:
All the sparrows (of the evil one) who sell themselves (or others) out for earthly gain will fall on that earthly ground because they are without God the Father ... Fear not. You are different than sparrows.
It takes "
two" to work a "
deal" - for or against God.
Which birds stick together the best?
Velcrows
105. Pretty birds
Some say:
The birds are so pretty (appearance).
The birds sound so nice (sales pitch).
The birds make me feel so good.
Have you ever watched a bird clean out your blueberry bush of every blueberry ready to be picked?
Reword those thoughts.
The false teachers are so pretty (appearance).
The false teachers sound so nice (sales pitch).
The false teachers make me feel so good (no worries).
106. Alfred Hitchcock: The birds
The Alfred Hitchcock 1963 movie "
The birds" has a lot of birds. The movie is loosely based on the 1952 short story of the same name by Daphne du Maurier.
When is it hard to see a bird (or a false teacher)?
When it is in the skies.
107. End of page
Here are some links to a series of pages on the houses built on sand and on rock.
Numbers 14:29 Your carcases shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward, which have murmured against me, [kjv]
εν τη ερημω ταυτη πεσειται τα κωλα υμων και πασα η επισκοπη υμων και οι κατηριθμημενοι υμων απο εικοσαετους και επανω οσοι εγογγυσαν επ εμοι [lxx]
14:32 But as for you, your carcases, they shall fall in this wilderness. [kjv]
και τα κωλα υμων πεσειται εν τη ερημω ταυτη [lxx]
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
υμων δε και αι τριχες της κεφαλης πασαι ηριθμημεναι εισιν [gnt]
10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
μη ουν φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε υμεις [gnt]
Psalms 102:6 I am like a pelican of the wilderness: I am like an owl of the desert. [kjv]
ωμοιωθην πελεκανι ερημικω εγενηθην ωσει νυκτικοραξ εν οικοπεδω [lxx]
102:7 I watch, and am as a sparrow alone upon the house top. [kjv]
ηγρυπνησα και εγενηθην ωσει στρουθιον μοναζον επι δωματι [lxx]
