Month: March 2012

2 Samuel 6

When we try to do God’s work our way, we may succeed for a moment, but we are destined for failure. When we do things God’s way, despite what some may think, He will bless us. Sometime our closest friends will turn on us when we decide to praise God properly. This should never detract us from rejoicing in Him. When was the last time you sang for God in such a way that it didn’t matter who was there?

2 Samuel 6 (cf. 1 Chronicles 13.1-14 [read our study] and 15.25-16.6 [read our study]; 1 Samuel 7.1, 2 [read our study])

This chapter presents David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. It is a rather strange story though. After the Israelites received the Ark back from the Philistines, they placed it in Kirjath-Jearim (here it is called Baale-Judah) with Abinidab in order to make Jerusalem both the political and religious capital of Israel. The goal is admirable. It seems, however, the means was less than godly. David intended to transport the Ark via a cart and not using Kohathites (Levitical priests) to carry it as prescribe in Numbers 4.15.

As the party of more than 30,000 were celebrating the transport of the Ark, it began to fall. Uzzah, in an attempt to save the Ark from desecration by having it fall to the ground, stopped it from falling. For his attempts, God struck him dead. Why? Was God being too harsh with Uzzah for touching the Ark? If we are unaware of God’s character, we might trivialize this incident with such a response. However, knowing the holiness of God, we need to respond differently. Uzzah was attempting to “save” the Ark from desecration by desecrating the Ark with his hand (he broke the law in order to save the Ark). Now, some would say that his hand was less dirty than the ground, so it was the lesser of the two evils. I posit a query or two: Is God so incapable that He is unable to keep the Ark from falling without causing someone to sin? Do we really think our sinfulness is less dirty than the dirt? Dirt is dirt and sin is what brought Christ out of Heaven to die for us (it is filthy rags-Isaiah 64.5-7). God’s law demands that any who touch it, die; he did, and he did.

David is in fear and anger. I think he was fearful of whom God actually is and in anger over his mishandling of the situation.

He deposits the Ark at the home of a Levitical priest, a Kohathite, in the city of Gath-rimmon in Manasseh. This would be the proper place to leave it. After David sees that God is not mad at him but blesses the household of Obed-edom, David retrieves it properly and takes it to Jerusalem.

Along the way, the entourage continues their celebration. David celebrates with them. His first wife, Michal, becomes embarrassed by David’s dress and dancing and despises him. When he returns home, she blasts him for rejoicing in the manner he did. David defends himself. God judges her.

When we try to do God’s work our way, we may succeed for a moment, but we are destined for failure. When we do things God’s way, despite what some may think, He will bless us. Sometime our closest friends will turn on us when we decide to praise God properly. This should never detract us from rejoicing in Him. When was the last time you sang for God in such a way that it didn’t matter who was there?

2 Samuel 5.11-25

As long as we are in submission to God’s commands and following His Word, will, and way, we are promised victory (1 John 4.4 and 1 John 5.4). Are you living in obedience or living in syncretism?

2 Samuel 5.11-25 (cf. 1 Chronicles 14-see our study)

The remainder of chapter 5 (see our study of 2 Samuel 5.1-10), establishes David as an international king, not merely a tribal king (12). The description of his home, built with wood rather than stone, presents a palatial estate (2 Samuel 7.2).

David is seen as an international sovereign. In being this he takes on the customs of those around him (syncretism). He adds more wives and concubines. God forbade this in Deuteronomy 17.17 but David allowed this probably because it was accepted cultural protocol for a king in making a peace treaty to take wives from the other’s family. This is the definition of syncretism, taking on what culture mandates as part of your life without regard to what God’s Word has to say. They, and we, always want to be like the others around us (1 Samuel 8.5 [see study] and Ezekiel 20.32).

David establishes a treaty with Hiram of Tyre [more research]. He will later supply David with the material to build the Temple (1 Kings 5.1-18).

As long as David was king over Judah only, the Philistines apparently were not concerned. When he was established as king over all Israel, they began attacking. The remainder of this chapter highlights the exploits of David’s men as seen in our study of 1 Chronicles 11 and will be seen when we return to 1 Chronicles 14.

The highlight is that David discussed his plans with God (19, 20). He did what God commanded and was victorious because of it. Some have suggested the marching on the tops of the trees are the angels marching to battle. Interesting thought that requires more research. Also, in this verse (24), it states that the Lord will go before them. This is not a foreign concept for the Lord is a warrior (Exodus 15.3) and He goes before His people to fight for them (Exodus 14.14; Deuteronomy 1.30; Joshua 5.13-15–see our study).

As long as we are in submission to God’s commands and following His Word, will, and way, we are promised victory (1 John 4.4 and 1 John 5.4). Are you living in obedience or living in syncretism?

Psalm 107

This psalm is calling all mankind to live in gratitude for what God has done. Look around at your life; what is God doing? If you say nothing, you don’t know God too well. He is always at work (John 5.16-18). It is the glory of man to find what He is doing and join Him in His activities. Notice His work and praise Him for it.

Psalm 107

This chapter, due to verses 2-3, has been interpreted as post-exilic that is when the Israelites were returning from the Babylonian Captivity. However, since all four directions are being referred to, it seems more appropriate to read this as the psalmist calling people from all directions of the earth to praise God.

Psalm 106 (see our study) retells the stories of God’s work in the Israelites in terms of discipline. Psalm 105 (see our study-research) details God’s blessing on the people. Both of these psalms refer to incidents found in the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible. Psalm 107 refers to incidents of God’s deliverance outside of the Pentateuch narrative. It appears that the incidents are not historical for the writer but current events.

The structure of this psalm is provided in the refrain given in verses 1, 8, 15, 21, and 31. Each of these verses calls us to thank God for what He has done. It is marked by the Hebrew word “chesed” (חסד), which translates “loving-kindness.” This word will be studied at a later time and placed in this website. What follows these verses are a reason for gratitude or a command to continue to praise Him. This is also seen in the refrain of the people’s cry to God in verses 6, 13, 19, and 28.

Therefore, we can outline this psalm as follows:

  • Verses 1-3-Introduction for all the people of God to thank God.
  • Verses 4-9-Instructions for travelers to thank God for what He has done
  • Verses 10-16-Instructions for prisoners to thank God for what He has done
  • Verses 17-22-Instructions for those suffering to thank God for what He has done

A quick note on these verses, some use this paragraph to present God’s healing in the Bible of physical infirmities proclaiming that God heals all diseases (Spirit filled life study Bible [Ps 107:1]). However, this passage speaks of sickness due to sin, such as David’s in Psalm 32 and Psalm 51, not sickness in general. Although I do believe that God does heal, I do not believe this passage can be used as a proof-text.

  • Verses 23-32-Instructions for sailors to thank God for what He has done
  • Verses 33-43-Instructions for farmers to thank God for what He has done

The last refrain does not follow the pattern of the previous four causing some to wonder if it belongs in this psalm or should be one alone.

This psalm is calling all mankind to live in gratitude for what God has done. Look around at your life; what is God doing? If you say nothing, you don’t know God too well. He is always at work (John 5.16-18). It is the glory of man to find what He is doing and join Him in His activities. Notice His work and praise Him for it.

Psalm 106

In each case of the remembering, Moses or another leader pleads on behalf of the people for God to forgive them. They stand in the gap for those who have rebelled (Ezekiel 22.30). We are called to do the same thing (Galatians 6.1-3 and Matthew 18.15-17).

Psalm 106

This is considered the first of the Hallelujah Psalms because it begins and ends with hallelujah (הלליה), which is “Praise the Lord.”

The key to this passage and the other historical psalms is to remember. In Psalm 105, remember because of the great things God has done; in Psalm 106, it is remembering that bad things we have done and turn from them. This psalm is a rehearsal of those things Israel did in rebellion to the good things God had done for them. Before we start pointing the finger, we need to remember that we do the same today. Think of God’s grace and forgiveness; then, ponder the things that we have done that abuse that grace and forgiveness. Paul summed it up in Romans 6 with an emphasis on our not sinning because of God’s grace.

Verses 1-3-The psalmist begins with praise and will end with praise as-well. He is calling us to observe what we have done and to pursue justice instead.

Verses 4-5-These verses are likened to Luke 23.42 where the repentant thief asks Jesus to remember him when He enters His kingdom.

Now we arrive at the reason for the repentance and petition.

Remember

  • Verse 6-He wants us to remember that we are as capable of committing these sins as those who actually committed them.
  • Verses 7-12-Red Sea Rebellion (Exodus 14)
  • Verses 13-15-Complaints in the Desert (Numbers 11)-They forgot; they did not remember.
  • Verses 16-18-Dathan and Abiram, the Rebels (Numbers 16)
  • Verses 19-23-The Golden Calf (Exodus 32)
  • Verses 24-27-The Evil Report of the Spies (Numbers 13-14)
  • Verses 28-31-Sin with People of Moab (Numbers 25)
  • Verses 32-33-Trouble at Meribah (Numbers 20.1-13)
  • Verses 34-39-In Canaan—Nothing Ever Changes (see the studies on the book of Joshua)
  • Verses 40-46-The Times of the Judges (see the studies on the book of Judges)

Verse 47-This is a call to national repentance and a call to give God the glory due His name.

Verse 48-This doxology is what began the psalm. Whatever our lot in life, we need to remember to praise the Lord.

In each case of the remembering, Moses or another leader pleads on behalf of the people for God to forgive them. They stand in the gap for those who have rebelled (Ezekiel 22.30). We are called to do the same thing (Galatians 6.1-3 and Matthew 18.15-17).

Psalm 133

When the unity God has given us is lived out, we are blessed and we bless those around us as-well. We live the life God created for us to live and we are blessed. We also display the love of God in such a way that those around us want that life too.

Psalm 133 (Possibly written after 1 Chronicles 12.38 occurred; read the study.)

Verse 1-This short psalm focuses our attention on unity (as does Jesus in John 17). This is also a Psalm of Ascents with David as the author. Therefore, the focus of the unity is found in Zion, or Jerusalem. A summary of the passage, then, could be: In order to dwell together in unity we need to participate in corporate worship together. Hebrews 10.19-25 focuses on our need to assemble together. It is housed in a passage on accountability (Hebrews 10.26-31).

Verse 2-Looking at the imagery in verse two we see hyperbole being used to represent the all-consuming grace of God pouring over the unified tribes. The High Priest wore a breastplate on which were the twelve stones representing each tribe. As God’s Spirit or grace, the oil, was poured down, it encompassed all the tribes. The unity was there, now it is blessed by the presence of God.

Verse 3-Mount Hermon is geographically for the Israelites what Aaron was spiritually for them. God proclaimed that He would bless the Israelites with water from Mount Hermon (Leviticus 25.21 and Deuteronomy 28.8). This blessing comes through the source of the Jordan River and through the gathering of clouds that produces the rain (or the dew) for the entire land. God uses His creation to bless His creatures.

When the unity God has given us is lived out, we are blessed and we bless those around us as-well. We live the life God created for us to live and we are blessed. We also display the love of God in such a way that those around us want that life too.

David proclaims unity that needs to be lived out. The unity is there, but it needs to be acted. Jesus proclaims our unity. We do not need to pray for unity, but we need to live out that unity (Ephesians 4). If you notice, the unity in Ephesians is also couched in the concept of corporate worship and the working out of the gifts with which the Holy Spirit has endowed each believer. How are you holding yourself accountable through the unifying presence of God in the lives of fellow believers?

An outside link to Mount Hermon.

1 Chronicles 12

1 Chronicles 12 (cf. 1 Samuel 22, 27, 29, 30)

Our studies in 1 Samuel (22, 27, 29, and 30) covered the material found in the first twenty-two verses of 1 Chronicles 12. So, refer to them for now (more on this chapter will come in the future).

This chapter details the tribes that were loyal to David. Notice in verses 29-30 that some were still loyal to Saul. It was not a clean transition to the throne for David. Looking at verses 38-40, we can see the celebrations that occurred when David was finally proclaimed king over all Israel.

For further insight into these verses refer to these previous studies:

Probably the greatest contrast gathered from these verses is how David and Saul gained followers. When these verses are read, we see that David attracted followers. They were drawn to him. Saul had to draft men into his army (1 Samuel 14.52). Our character and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives attract others to our ministry. What is your character like? How is the Holy Spirit working in you today?

Look over this chapter again. Focus on these verses: 2, 8, 15, 16-18, 32, 33, and 38. What did you notice about these people who were attracted to David? Would you meet these qualifications? Jesus calls each one of us to His service. Does He attract you? Are you qualified for service or has sin stained you for this season? Are you skilled? Yes. The Holy Spirit has gifted you. Are you trained?  Second Timothy 2.15 requires us to do this work. Are you fearless? Again, 2 Timothy 1.7 proclaims that God has given us a spirit that should be fearless. Are you loyal? This is your decision. Will you follow Him regardless of the command? Will you follow His Word and His leaders and help others to do the same? Do you see what is going on around you and desire to change things for God? This is the list. How do you match-up? The good news is that God can qualify you as you surrender to His Word, His will, and His way.

1 Chronicles 11

How faithful have you been to the small things that God has called you to do? Homework? Honoring parents? Truth-telling? Kindness? Etcetera?

1 Chronicles 11 (2 Samuel 5.1-10 and 2 Samuel 23.8-29)

Three verses (70-72) from Psalm 78 present this event (see study). Our 2 Samuel 5.1-10 study presents the activity of verses 1-9 (see study). There is one point added here and that is how Joab becomes the commander of David’s army–he leads the capture of Jerusalem (verses 6-7). We, now, shall turn to the remainder of the chapter.

The thirty-two verses that follow recount David’s mighty men and the feats they accomplished. David had three warriors close to him, then he had thirty, then he had his armies. This list contains the thirty, which would include the three.

I will add thoughts on one of them, Benaiah, later today.

In this list we find those God purposed for greatness through a direct call. Others were purposed for greatness through an indirect call from God through David. Others were purposed for greatness through by being faithful in the small things. We are all purposed for greatness if we choose to follow the small things of God (Mark 10.42-45).

A song from a bygone era states this as-well:  Servant of All (If you want to be great in God’s kingdom (Maranatha Music). Take three-minutes for to listen to this song.

How faithful have you been to the small things that God has called you to do? Homework? Honoring parents? Truth-telling? Kindness? Etcetera?

2 Samuel 5.1-10

Are you proclaiming the One who is greater than David, Jesus, as King of your life? If so, your faith and ability to do great things will increase. The more we lean on God and allow Him to rule our lives the greater our life will be primarily due to our living the life that He created for us to live. How strong are you today? What does your daily workout look like?

2 Samuel 5.1-10

Due to the method of this study, in that we are attempting to do a chronological study of the events of the Old Testament, we are studying the first ten verses of 2 Samuel 5. These verses coincide with 1 Chronicles 11.1-9. We will look at 1 Chronicles 11 next before we return to complete 2 Samuel 5. For the remainder of 2 Samuel and the books of the Kings, we will work with simultaneously with the Chronicles.

This chapter provides the third anointing of David being king. Here it is an anointing by all the tribes of Israel to be king over Israel.  Second Samuel 2.4 points to the Southern tribes anointing David king over Judah. First Samuel 16.13 is the most important anointing given by Samuel prophetically proclaiming David to be the great and future king over all Israel. Verse two represents the people’s belief that Samuel’s anointing of David to be king over all Israel was indeed an act of God anointing David. The Israelites were obeying God’s will and proclaiming David the rightful king.

Hebron is an important city in the life of Israel. It is here the patriarchs, except for Rachel, were buried (Genesis 23.2; 25.9; 35.27-29; 49.29-33). It is one of the oldest cities in the world that is still in existence. The Cave of Machpelah is still there; however, it is covered by a mosque (background information from Jewish Virtual Library).

David is called in verse two a shepherd and a ruler (or prince). When this terminology is compared to Ezekiel 34.23-24, we see a comparison to the coming Messiah. David, then, is a type of Christ who is to come. More will be developed on this concept at a later date. The term “Messiah” means “anointed one.”

We see the years of David’s reign given in verse five. David reigned more than forty years, from the age of thirty (Jesus’ ministry began at thirty too) and he was king until he was in his seventies.

The Jebusites (those who dwelt in what is called Jerusalem today), were confident in their ability to defend their capital. They thought it was impenetrable (6). When a topographical map of the surrounding area is viewed, it is reasonable for the Jebusites to think that the city was impenetrable. The Jebusites held this territory since the days of Joshua (Joshua 15.63). This is one reason David sought the city. God gave the city to David and to Israel (10). Remember, with God all things are possible if He desires them for us.

David’s plan of attack seems to be an attack on the water system of Jerusalem. Later, King Hezekiah would use this as a means of defense (2 Chronicles 32.2-4).

The first mention of “Zion” found in the Bible is in verse seven.

As 2 Samuel 3.1 reminds us, David’s claim to be king grew greater than that of Saul; so, we see here in verse ten, that David became greater and greater because God was with him. Just as Saul became weaker because God had left him, so David became stronger because God was with him.

Are you proclaiming the One who is greater than David, Jesus, as King of your life? If so, your faith and ability to do great things will increase. The more we lean on God and allow Him to rule our lives the greater our life will be primarily due to our living the life that He created for us to live. How strong are you today? What does your daily workout look like?

Psalm 104

Before reading this following, read through the psalm. It is a literary masterpiece unequaled in Scripture and adds a poetic flow to the Genesis 1 account of creation.

Psalm 104

Before reading the following, read through the psalm. It is a literary masterpiece unequaled in Scripture and adds a poetic flow to the Genesis 1 account of creation.

This song of creation is similar to Job 38, Job 39, Psalm 8, and Psalm 29 (also read the study on Psalm 8).

The psalm can be seen as an expression of the greatness and splendor of God.

Verse 1-this is a call to praise (the psalm is sandwiched with this call-see verse 35)

Verses 1-4-God is infinite

Verses 5-9-He created the land and seas

Verses 10-18-He cares for His creation by providing food and drink

Verses 19-23-He created the heavens to help regulate the earth

Verses 24-26-He created the sea creatures

Verses 27-30-All things that He created are totally dependent on Him

Verses 31-35-a summary of the call to praise God

Stop, go outside, and praise God for the creation you see.

Psalm 103

There is so much in this psalm. That I will save it for a future date to complete. My apologies for now.

Psalm 103

This psalm is a wonderful expression of what God has done for us. Spurgeon and Henry both proclaim that this psalm is more for “devotion than exposition.” Take time to read through this psalm, slowly; then read this study. Spurgeon also tells us that a thousand different writers would not be able to tell all that is written in this one chapter.

Warren Wiersbe summed the entire chapter this way:

David makes no requests in this psalm. All he does is praise the Lord for three wonderful blessings, which he names in verses 3–5 and then explains in the rest of the psalm.

Forgiveness (3, 10–14). Forgiveness is like healing when you are sick (1 Pet. 2:24), relief when you are burdened (vv. 11–12; Lev. 16:20–22; John 1:29), and reconciliation when you have hurt someone (vv. 13–14). All of this comes because Jesus died for your sins on the cross and you have trusted Him.

Redemption (4, 6–9). God redeemed the nation from bondage and from the difficulties they faced on their journey to Canaan. He frees us that He might be our Master and care for us forever. When He crowns us, He transforms slaves into kings (Rom. 5:17). What grace!

Satisfaction (5, 15–18). Man is frail and temporary, but believers enjoy “eternal youth” and spiritual renewal. David compares it to the eagle that looks old but still soars upward with new strength (Isa. 40:31).

You belong to the King who rules over everything (v. 19)! The angels praise Him (vv. 20–22), so why not join in their worship? (Wiersbe, 1997).

There is so much in this psalm. That I will save it for a future date to complete. My apologies for now.