Tag: Research

Psalm 2

What would you say about the kingship of Christ in your life? How does His reign manifest itself in your life?

Psalm 2

This is the first messianic psalm in the Psalter. It is quoted often in the New Testament as applying to Jesus’ ministry on earth (Acts 4.25; 13.33; Hebrews 1.5; 5.5). It completes the thoughts, also, from Psalm 1. The first psalm dealt with the righteous and ungodly individual, and the second psalm deals with the righteous and ungodly king or kingdom.

After reading through this psalm, a question is given: what happens when rulers defy God? What does it mean to defy or conspire against God? Would our present nation be classified as having rulers who defy God, attempting to go beyond His Word or without His Word? Can we apply these same questions to a country, such as ours, that does not proclaim to be a Bible-believing nation? What parameters does Psalm 2.1-2 have for us today?

Romans 13 reminds us that no authority is placed in power outside of God granting it power. Although this creates many questions in cases like Hitler, it also sheds light on our government. Neither this psalm nor Romans 13 places stipulations on what type of government, all are under the authority of God. If He places them in power, they are responsible to Him and will be blessed or cursed based on the relationship the leader has with God and based on the relationship the people of that government have with God. When the chapter closes, it closes with a command for the kings and all creation to be subject to God in five ways:

  1. Be wise
  2. Be warned
  3. Serve the Lord
  4. Kiss the Son, which means to embrace Him, to believe in Him, to not be ashamed of Him (Acts 16.31). Can you picture Mary at the cross kissing the feet of her Son (view the Passion of the Christ for a graphic display of this)?
  5. Rejoice or live in His blessing

With this being said, the psalm has traditionally been divided into four parts:

  1. a description of the plans of the wicked )1–3)
  2. the Father’s laughter from heaven (4–6)
  3. the Son’s declaration of the Father’s decree (7–9)
  4. the Spirit’s instruction to obey the Son (10–12)

What would you say about the kingship of Christ in your life? How does His reign manifest itself in your life?

If there are questions on this psalm, submit it to Pastor David.

1 Chronicles 16.7-43

Special occasions like this will come and go in our lives. We may remember what we did, what God had done, how we praised Him, and how others were drawn to Him during this occasion. But, it is better to write down a word of praise to God for what He has done. When God works in your life, write down what He did, how you felt, how others responded, and whatever else you experienced for the moment. That day will disappear, but your written words will last throughout your life and beyond. This can be your tool to bring others to Christ even after you are gone (23).

1 Chronicles 16.7-43 (Cf. Psalm 96.1-13, Psalm 105.1-15, and Psalm 106.1, 47-48 [see our study of Psalm 96, Psalm 105, Psalm 106])

This chapter is a song of David that has found its way into at least three psalms, as can be seen from the above.

  •  2 Chronicles 16.7-22 is found in Psalm 105.1-15, which is a psalm of thanks for God’s faithfulness to His covenant people. The covenant was central to the faith of the Israelite and, now, to the Christian [research].
  • 2 Chronicles 16.23-33 is found in Psalm 96.1-13, which is a call to the people of the earth to come and worship before God.
  • 2 Chronicles 16.34-36 is found in Psalm 106.1, 47-48, which is a psalm of praise for forgiveness of sin.

 Verses seven and thirty-seven present Asaph, the writer of and musician for many psalms, as the chief musician under David.

God, through David’s (and Ezra) pen, reminds us that God is above all other gods. When those around you proclaim that Christianity is too narrowminded and that there is more than one way to God, show them 1 Chronicles 16.23-30. It is here that God proclaims He is above all other gods, that He alone is worthy of worship, and that all other gods are useless. If this seems intolerant to them, remind them it is the truth. Much like gravity is intolerant of those who want to float, yet it is the truth.

The passage reminds us that God is intending to offer salvation to all mankind, not merely the Israelites (31-32).

Included in the conclusion of the poetic portion of this chapter are three verses representing our prayers: we should thank God (34), ask God for His will to be done (35), and praise Him for whom He is (36).

The conclusion of the passage, verses 37-43, presents a slight problem in that there are two places of worship, Gibeon and Jerusalem. However, this will not always be the case. When the worship is established in Jerusalem, all worship is moved there (by worship I mean the corporate celebrations of God in a public place [research “worship”]).

Verse 41 is interesting in that it reminds us of God’s steadfast love for us in the middle of a narrative. There were specific people who were designated to remind others of this throughout the day. Isn’t this our call as well?

The last verse, 43, is the tie-in to chapter 17. All people went home, but the Lord had no home.

Special occasions like this will come and go in our lives. We may remember what we did, what God had done, how we praised Him, and how others were drawn to Him during this occasion. But, it is better to write down a word of praise to God for what He has done. When God works in your life, write down what He did, how you felt, how others responded, and whatever else you experienced for the moment. That day will disappear, but your written words will last throughout your life and beyond. This can be your tool to bring others to Christ even after you are gone (23).

One last application, do you regularly attend corporate worship? Are you involved with the corporate worship at your church? Are you using your gifts for God’s purpose, glory, and honor (Ephesians 4.11-16)?

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.

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?

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.

1 Chronicles 9

This opening verse should be a warning to all who read. When we allow our hearts to turn from the Word, will, and way of God we are unfaithful to Him. Our unfaithfulness may not lead to physical captivity, but our hearts, minds, and wallets can become captive to the world system we are told to stay away from (1 John).

1 Chronicles 9 (Ezra 2.43, 79, Ezra 8.20, and Nehemiah 7.73)

This opening verse should be a warning to all who read. When we allow our hearts to turn from the Word, will, and way of God we are unfaithful to Him. Our unfaithfulness may not lead to physical captivity, but our hearts, minds, and wallets can become captive to the world system we are told to stay away from (1 John).

As can be seen by the passages listed above, this chapter details those who returned from the Babylonian Exile. The first to return (9.2) are the laymen, priests, Levites, and temple servants. This last group of people is called the Nethinim in the Hebrew text. These people were a group of temple servants (see references above) who helped the Levites with the menial chores in the Temple. The moniker Nethinim means “those who are given.” In the cross-references above, read in context, the Nethinim have Gentile names. This has led many to hold that these were non-Israelites. However, having a non-Israelite serving in the Temple has caused some to disregard that view. The names given could have been given to the foreign-born Israelite merely because they were in a foreign land (think of the four in the book of Daniel whose names were changed).

When this chapter is completed, the legitimacy of the Israelite nation from Creation to the moment of return from Exile is given. This is the nation that belongs in the Promised Land. Be thankful that your genealogy only needs to include Jesus as your Savior for you to inherit and claim legitimacy as one who is possessed by the King of the Promised Land.

The books of the Bible are divided into chapters by men. This is one case where I would have chosen a different point of separation. First Chronicles 9.35 could have been 1 Chronicles 10.1. This is because this portion of the book deals with the material in chapter ten that of King Saul. The closing of 1 Chronicles 9 presents the linage of King Saul (35-44). The ending of this chapter sets the stage for chapters ten and following. However, I do see that it is attached to chapter nine because it is a genealogy.

1 Chronicles 8

1 Chronicles 8 (Genesis 46.21, Numbers 26.38, and 1 Chronicles 7.6; cf. the study on 1 Chronicles 7)

This chapter presents a complete look at the tribe of Benjamin with a closer look at Saul and Jonathan. The purpose is to set the stage for the death of Saul and the reign of David that is presented in the rest of 1 Chronicles. The next chapter presents the reason the people were taken as captives to Babylon, their unfaithfulness to God (9.1).

1 Chronicles 7

This list ends with mighty men of valor. Would your name be placed here or would it be absent as Dan? Why?

1 Chronicles 7 (Genesis 46.13, 17, 21, 24)

Issachar-More research later

Benjamin-This tribe was almost reduced to naught. It grew and is listed here in detail due to the genealogy of King Saul.

Naphtali-This is quite short, probably due to the size of the tribe after returning from the Assyrian captivity. Tiglath-Pileser seems to have targeted this area (2 Kings 15.29).

Manasseh-Note the absence of the term “half-tribe” (1 Chronicles 5.23), implying that this portion of Manasseh was placed in higher regard than the portion east of the Jordan River. Zolophehad’s daughters required a change in the inheritance laws under Moses (Numbers 27.1-11 and Numbers 36.1-12).

Ephraim-This genealogy is detailed to display the heritage of Joshua. Sheerah is the only mention of a woman in the Bible who built cities.

Asher-More research later

The two tribes, Zebulun and Dan, are omitted from these genealogies. For Dan’s omission, a conjecture would be that his tribe began the idolatry of the nation with the calves set-up by Jeroboam. He is also not listed in Revelation 7.5-8. As for Zebulun, more research is needed.

This list ends with mighty men of valor. Would your name be placed here or would it be absent as Dan? Why?