Monday, December 7, 2015
We Finally Finished Old Testament Characters
After nearly 3 years, the Wednesday morning class has finally finished studying characters from the Old Testament. We started with the character of God as revealed in Genesis one and He remained the main character throughout. We covered every major character from Genesis to the book of Esther (We did skip Judges for the sake of time). There is no time limit for each lesson. While I have a planned list of items to be taught, anyone in the class can bring up a matter they want to discuss. That explains why it took 3 years. I stopped typing up my notes after David. I got burned out with the project after typing 62 pages. Sometime in the future, I'll finish typing and publishing my notes.
Saturday, September 5, 2015
Old Testament Characters
I am still teaching Old Testament characters on Wednesday morning. Since my last post on this subject, we have covered Solomon, a brief look at 4 Kings of Judah, Elijah, Elisha, and we will probably finish Ezra during the next class. We will conclude with Nehemiah and Esther. I haven't posted my notes since Daniel because, frankly, I got burned out typing them up. So far, I have 62 pages of notes. Someday, I will finish posting them. But not now.
What I've Been Reading
I bought a good deal of books from the Wesley Biblical Seminary library while I was a student. One subject covered by my purchases was death/dying/end of life care/counseling. I have added to these with subsequent purchases. Last December, I undertook the reading of them and I finished last night. The first was a book called "The Loneliness of Man" which was ruined by its existentialist viewpoint, viewing faith as a leap in the dark. Then I read a book on old age which was influenced by the notion that death is to be looked forward to, instead of being viewed as the enemy. Then I read Christopher Hitchen's "Mortality." I thought I might gain an insight on how you deal with those dying of cancer, especially those who don't believe in God. I gained very little insight. Those three were a wash. Then I read Sherwin Nuland's How We Die and Death and Dying by Elizebeth Kubler-Ross. Both were fruitful. Nuland's work took the mystery out of much of what happens at death so readers may not be so surprised as to what is happening to them as they die. Ross demonstrates how to deal with the fears which keep us from dealing with those who have a short time left on earth. Then I read a volume of the writings of Paul Tournier, a Christian doctor and psychologist who was influential during the 50's and 60's. While worth reading, I did have reservations about him. While I was reading Tounier, I read a book which I thought would be about ministering to families which lost an infant. The book was really about making these parents accept Calvinism. Also, I read Nicoloas Woltersdorf's Lament For a Son, a memoir on how he dealt with the death of his son. Then I reread Grief, Transition, and Loss by Wayne Oates. I had read this during my ordination process about three years ago. So, that is what I have been reading for about 3 quarters of a year. I have saved articles from the Internet dealing with the same subjects and will read those as well.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
David, Part 3
This is the last part of the notes on Davidfor the Wed. morn. class. Tomorrow we move on to Solomon.
2Sam. 13:1- 2 years after
David’s sin with Bathsheba. David is 53, Amnon is 22, Absalom is 20, Tamar is
15, Solomon is 2.
Amnon is the crown prince
born of a different mother than Absalom and Tamar. Their mother is Maccha of
Geshur (A Pagan?) Problem with multiplying wives. Would Amnon raped his own
sister?
v.3- Jonadab, David’s cousin,
seeking favor from crown prince.
v. 12- Tamar not just
concerned for own self, but for holiness in Israel.
v. 13- Is Tamar willing to
marry as well as stop attack? To prevent consequences to her and Amnon? Perhaps
not. Such a marriage is prohibited by God’s Law- Lev. 18: 9, 20:17, Dt. 27:22.
v. 15- hate greater than
love, she was just a temporary object, Amnon like Esau, seeking immediate
gratification.
v. 16- Her virginity stolen,
she had nothing to offer to a potential husband. He refused to marry her,
violating God’s Law. See Dt. 22:29.
v. 17-18- Amnon leaves
impression Tamar tried to seduce him, though she was wearing the symbol of
being the king’s virgin daughter (Sign of king’s favor, like Joseph). Treated
shamefully. Just as David acted, so did Amnon. He acted as if he could do what
he wanted without regard for God and His Law. He coveted after Tamar, seized
her, bore false witness.
v.19- ashes on head- sign of
great mourning. Torn robe is sign of lost virginity.
v. 20- Absalom doesn’t want
Tamar to cause a scandal.
v. 21- David doesn’t carry
out Law. Incest punishable by death.He loved his 1st born, daughters
were not as important.
v. 22- spoke not at all=
bided time
v.23- sheep shearing a
festival with food, drink.
v. 25- king’s mighty men
would have to accompany him.
v. 26- Amnon would be king’s
representative, David had misgivings because of their strained relationship.
v. 28- violation of Eastern
hospitality, God’s Law against vengeance. David violated 4 of 10 commandments
with Bathsheba, Uriah. Absalom, Amnon together guilty of coveting , bearing
false witness, murder.
Absalom makes self successor
to the throne.
v. 29- fear for their lives,
didn’t want to be associated with this.
v. 32- same one who had given
Amnon idea of seducing Tamar.
v. 37- where his mother’s
people were from.
v. 38-39- David longed for
his son.
2Sam. 14: 7- Law against
blood vengeance, Num. 35: 9-21.
v. 2- Joab concerned about
instability this situation could cause.
v. 7- God’s Law prevents
families from being wiped out. Dt. 25: 5-6, Ruth 2: 20.
Try to convince David of
coming disaster over fight over succession.
v. 9- blame for unpunished
crime. Wiping out family line as serious as murder.
v. 13- Implies David guilty
of blood murder for not forgiving Absalom.
v. 14- woman distorting God’s
justice, Gen. 9:6. Emphasize God’s mercy. David’s own crimes adds weight to
arguments.
v. 25-26- hair weighed 3
pounds.
v. 32- no sign of repentance.
v. 33- David sidesteps
repentance, justice. Helps fulfill Nathan’s prophecy.
2Sam. 15:1-9_ Absalom steals
the devotion of the people due to his father.
v.1 Absalom looked like a
king in the people’s eyes.
Heir to the throne violated
the Law- 1st Israelite leader to have many horses and chariots. Acquired 50 men. Appeal to the masses who
like to follow those who look like a winner. Remember what David did with horses and
chariots- 2nd Sam. 8:4
v. 3-4- No inquiry into
justness of complaints. Absalom bears false witness against David.
Deputy=listener. David always acted for the vulnerable, the oppressed (except
in the case of Uriah, Tamar) . Kingdom knew about Amnon and Tamar. When Absalom
says there is no justice in the land, the people would remember what happened
to his sister. Absalom took matters into own hands, exploit David’s weakness,
the love for his eldest son.
v.7- four years, or 40 years
after David’s anointing, David is about 56.
Hebron was considered the
capital of Israel before David made Jerusalem capital. Where David was
proclaimed king, where Absalom was born. Local resentment for losing capital?
v. 11- 200 innocent men.
There when rebellion started. Looked like they were supporting Absalom, look
like Absalom has many supporters. Look of success results in many followers.
v. 12- Ahitophel- Bathsheba’s
grandfather. Is he resentful of David’s conduct with Bathsheba, Uriah? David
writes of this betrayal in Ps. 41:9, 55: 12-14.
v. 18- King’s mighty men.
v.19- concerned for the weak,
oppressed, foreigners in the land, a Philistine.
v. 14- spare Jerusalem a
blood bath.
v. 16- David unknowingly
arranging fulfillment of Nathan’s prophecy.
v. 25- ark not a magical
thing.
v. 26- David knows he has no
exclusive claim on the throne.
2Sam. 16: 1- Ziba, the
servant who David contacted about Saul’s family in 2Sam. 9. Waiting for David.
v.3-4- son of master can
refer to Saul or Jonathan. Son/grandson=Mephibosheth.
Ziba lies. Makes David think
Mephibosheth disloyal, ungrateful, delusional. David does not seek
Mephibosheth’s life. He still was true to his covenant with Jonathan. He just
took all the property he gave to Mephibosheth and gave it to Ziba.
v.7-8- David isn’t
responsible for the death of any in Saul’s family. Saul’s family ungrateful, no
respect for God’s anointing of David.
v.9- Abisai- David’s cousin,
son of his sister Zuriah. Wanted to kill Saul.
v.10- David not of the same
nature as Joab/Abishai.
v. 11-12- Shimei cursing
David because God making him? Perhaps God will see and vindicate David. Or has
God chosen to terminate David’s kingship? David accepts God’s judgment. Will not kill Shimei; David, a picture of
Christ as merciful to the undeserving.
v. 15-19- Hushai tricking
Absalom
v. 21-22- fulfillment of
Nathan’s prophecy (see 2Sam. 12: 11-12). Taking concubines was the same as
taking the throne. Act also signified a complete break with his father.
v. 23- A sign of how
respected Ahithophel was, why his defection so gauled David
2Sam. 17: 14- God was working
to defeat rebellion against his anointed in answer to David’s prayer in 2Sam.
15:31.
v. 17- grandsons of priests
Zadok and Abiathar.
v. 23- knew after adice
rejected that David would win the struggle.
v. 25- Joab loyal to cousin
David.
Not the same Abigail that was
David’s wife. Through another wife of David’s father Jesse.
v. 27- chieftain, tributaries
of David. Shows the support of wealthy, influencial persons for David.
2Sam. 18: 1-4- entire
fighting force divided so the whole would not be taken.
Itti- see 2Sam. 15:19.
Men don’t want to be pursued,
so don’t want David with them. Also, David is now older, not as strong. See
2Sam.17:2 . David does not object. He is humble, even as king.
v. 5- David knew Joab, son of
Zuriah. Hoped to keep him from killing Absalom. Love of son almost a fatal
weakness.
v. 12-13- loyal to David,
soldier spares own life, would not touch the son of God’s anointed.
v. 16- spared people because
Absalom was dead.
v.17- not the way royalty is
buried, buried like Achan and sons. Contrast to Absalom’s own memorial.
v. 20-21- Joab doesn’t know
how David will react.
v. 22- had not seen Absalom’s
death.
v. 33- David knew his sin
with Bathsheba brought about the deaths of Amnon, Absalom.
2Sam. 19: 1-4- victory
celebration turned into mourning.
v.5- the army put their lives
on the line for David
v. 6- Absalom responsible for
the slaughter.
7. king must go out and
review the troops, or will be abandoned.
v. 9-12- rebellion started in
Jerusalem. David wanted to recement ties of Judah with himself, kingdom. Bring
king back into Jerusalem in triumph.
Why is Judah, my own people,
the last the king back into Jerusalem?
v.13- punishment for Joab?
David hopes to cement his followers loyalty.
v. 15-20- seeking David’s forgiveness. By now it was
understood that David was a forgiving king.
House of Joseph- a phrase
representing all those who had opposed Judah.
v. 21-22- Abishai- Joab’s
brother, son of Zuriah. Wanted to kill Saul. Again David says “What have I to
do with you, son of Zuriah?” David not of same nature as Joab, Abishai, David’s
cousins. No one dies on day king restored to throne.
v.24- Mephibosheth shows
signs of mourning, loyalty for David from very beginning of rebellion.
v. 26-28- Mephibsheth loyal,
Ziba lied. Knows David is merciful, see 2Sam. 9: 1-8.
v.29- punish Ziba, through
division of land. At this point, David doesn’t know who is telling the truth.
David keeps covenant, even though he knows someone is deceiving him, like
Israel kept covenant with Gibeonites.
v. 30-Mephibosheth shows his
unselfish loyalty to David.
v. 40-43- other tribes fear
Judah will dominate other tribes. Tension comes out during rebellion. David
careful not to show favoritism to own tribe. Precursor of rift which will
divide kingdom after Solomon’s death.
2Sam. 20: 1- saw the division
between Judah, rest of tribes, saw opportunity to exploit, a Benjamite, loyal
to Saul, hope to regain throne for tribe, self. Many felt that David favored
his tribe above others.
Rebel=Son of Belial- used for
all trouble makers like Eli’s sons.
v. 2- division foreshadows
division of kingdom.
v. 3- defiled, David remains
aloof sexually. His actions were a kindness, could have expelled or killed
concubines. Also, a reassertion of royal power.
v. 4-6- David bypasses Joab
twice.
v. 7- David relies on small,
elite force, the Mighty Men, mainly non-Israelite. Joab still recognized as
leader.
v. 9- still a common practice
among Arab countries today.
v. 10- 2nd time
Joab commits murder to secure his position, takes command without permission.
v. 11- Joab demonstrates
loyalty to David.
v. 12- men had respect for
the dead. Maybe didn’t want contact with the dead, be unclean? Amasa’s body
treated with contempt.
v. 18- Abel considered a
place of wise counsel, old woman one of the counselors, faithful Israelites.
v. 19- “mother in Israel”=a
city of influence, respect.
v. 22- Joab returns with
public testimony of defeating David’s enemies, position entrenched. David can’t
remove him.
2Sam. 21.
v. 1-14- Between the time of
David’s kindness to Mephibosheth and Absalom’s rebellion. Historical Chronology
not always important to ancient writers, whether biblical writers or
non-biblical.
v.1- This campaign against
the Gibeonites not mentioned elsewhere in Scripture. Gibeonites not Israelite
by descent, but occupied a portion of the territory of Benjamin, Saul’s tribe.
v. 2- Gibeonites were Canaanites
who tricked Joshua and Israel into covenant of protection, which Saul and
family violated. A covenant in God’s
name, no matter the circumstances as to how it came about, has to be honored.
God’s reputation is at stake.
“bless”- Gibeonites could rightly
call a curse down on the land.
v. 4- Gibeonites forbidden
from legal redress against an Israelite? Against God’s Law- Ex. 22:21, Lev.
19:34, 24:22, Dt. 1: 16-17, 24: 17, 27:19.
Did Saul make up a law in opposition to God’s Law?
6. Gibeah- Saul’s home.
Gibeonites refer to Saul’s
anointing as king by God.
v. 7- David spares
Mephibosheth and his son (s) because of of his covenant with Jonathan.
v. 8- sons of a concubine and
sons of Saul’s 1st daughter that had been originally been promised
to David for killing Goliath.
v. 9- they were probably part
of Saul’s persecution, because son’s not supposed to be punished for father’s
crimes.
v. 10- to allow bodies to be
ravaged by birds or wild animals was considered the greatest insult or
degradation of the dead.
Rain signaled the lifting of
the curse, Saul’s sins atoned for.
v. 10-14- David saw Ritzpah’s
kindness, remembered kindness of Jabesh Gilead in risking lives to take Saul
and son’s bodies from the Philistines, decides to perform one last act of
kindness to Saul’s family.
v. 17- David getting old,
Israel knows David’s importance as the Lord’s anointed, the covenants made by
God concerning him, a member of the family always on the throne.
As stated before, ancient
writers, biblical or pagan, were more concerned with theme than with
chronology. So, we consider the last days of David and the struggle for
succession before we finish 2Sam.
1Kings 1:1- David about 70,
old for the time, battle weary.
v. 2- a young woman who would
also remain a virgin so not to complicate succession.
v. 5- Adonijah younger
brother of Absalom, Tamar. 35 years old. Result of violating Dt. 17:17. Also,
mother may not have been an Israelite. Just as Absalom did, disobeyed Dt.
17:16.
No rule of succession in the
Law. David could choose whom he wanted to follow him on the throne. He had
promised it to Solomon, 1Chron. 22: 6-10, 28: 1-7. All Israel knew this,
including Adonijah.
v. 6- David hasn’t learned
lesson, will not reign in sons.
v. 7- Abiathar- only priest
to escape Saul when Saul murdered the priests- 1Sam. 22- for helping David.
Descendant of Eli, whose priestly family was under a curse from God.
v. 8- Benaiah- commander of
David’s mighty men, rival to Joab, commander of David’s army. Reason Joab sided
with Adonijah.
v. 9- victory celebration,
look like a winner.
v. 17- oath taken in the
Lord’s name, not voidable.
v. 24- Nathan doesn’t really
know if David has sidede with Adonijah. After all, David had history of
indulging sons.
v. 33- for Solomon to ride
David’s mule was a sign that David favored Solomon as king.
v. 34- only God’s anointed
could sit on the throne, throne not for the taking.
v. 42- son of Abiathar, spied
on Absalom for David.
v. 49- When Adonijah’s
supporters heard this, they abandoned him.
v. 51- those in fear for
their life often sought asylum at the altar.
v. 52- Solomon as forgiving
as David. Picture of Christ. Adonijah not responsible for slaughter like
Absalom. Forgiveness is not trust. Adonijah had to prove himself.
1Kings2: 2-3- walk according
to the Law of Moses, under a covenant.
v. 4- promise to David
conditional, based on obedience to Mosaic Law, Mosaic covenant.
v. 5-6- Joab killed in
violation of the Law, didn’t kill in battle. Violated covenant David made with
Abner, killed him in city of refuge. Amasa’s killing unlawful as well. Joab’s
treachery, by siding with Adonijah, gives David an opportunity to bring
judgment on Joab.
v. 7- Barzillai loyal to
David during Absalom’s rebellion.
Now we return to 2Sam. We
will examine the last 3 chapters, working backwards. The author (s) chose to
end 2Sam. with an event which shows the two sides of David, the sinner, and the
repentant one. David’s portrayal is not airbrushed, but we see the consequences
when one follows God and when a follower chooses sin.
2Sam. 1: Did God cause David
to sin? See 1Chron. 21:1. God allowed Satan to influence David, see James 1:13.
Like when God hardened Pharaoh’s already hardened heart, when God sent an evil
spirit to enter Saul, and when a demon entered Judas, compel them to do evil
when they allowed it in their own heart. David was probably trusting in his own
strength. David told Goliath the battle is the Lord’s, but here David shows a
lack of trust. Also, God angry with whole nation, scripture doesn’t say why.
Also, David violated God’s Law concerning the census, see Ex. 30: 11-16. A
census was to be an act of worship, a way to raise a tax given in faith as an
atonement for sins, to support the Tabernacle. Not done here, but used to
number troops for battle, rely on numbers for strength when they were to rely
on God, violation of rules for kings, see Dt. 17: 14-20. Stated punishment,
plagues. David knew this when God gave him the 3 choices. David chose what was
in the Law, even though it may have been the most severe to the people. David
in anguish when he sees his people punished.
David took responsibility, Saul always had an excuse.
v. 18-25- God commands David
to build an altar, located on Mt. Moriah, where Abraham offered up Isaac (Gen
22: 2), the location of Solomon’s temple.
Araunah’s offer refused.
David treated the people justly, according to God’s Law. Will not use position
to gain unfair advantage. Animals not paid for not an acceptable sacrifice. To
sacrifice them would offend God. The site of Israel’s future worship would not
be compromised in such a way. David’s conduct, his faith and repentance, ended
the plague.
2Sam23- Not necessarily
David’s last words on his death bed, but his last poetic statement.
v. 1- David acknowledges
humble origins, and how it was God who anointed him king.
The God of history, the same
God who increased Jacob preserved David and made an everlasting covenant with
him.
Sweet psalmist wrote Israel’s
hymnbook, Jesus’ prayer book.
2. Spirit spoke through David
while David responded to circumstances, as explanations at beginning of many
Psalms attest.
v. 3-4- kings who rule
righteously are like those described in Ps. 1: 2-3 and Dt. 17: 18-20. Righteous
rule stems from meditation upon and obedience to God’s Law.
v. 5- God made everlasting
covenant with David who thinks this refers only to throne in Jerusalem. But his
family will rule forever in Jesus Christ.
v. 6-7- Those who don’t
follow God’s Laws will be destroyed , like David’s own sons.
2Sam. 22: 1- This chapter is
almost the same as Ps. 18. Probably written between the time when David subdued
his enemies and his sin with Bathsheba.
v. 2- The Lord is a rock,
deliverer, not like idols. Only God can protect.
v. 3- David trusts in God,
not himself, a public confession to his people and his enemies.
A personal God v. impersonal
idols.
v. 5-18- A personal God who
cares for each of those who trust and obey Him, one who is angry when His
followers are oppressed. David was God’s anointed, see v. 8-9.
v. 21-25- written before
David’s sin.
David had clean hands because
he obeyed God’s Law which is the essence of pleasing God. If faithful, God will
be faithful.
v. 26-28- God’s relationship
with David can be had by anyone who trusts and obeys Him.
v. 50- David will praise
God’s name to the Gentiles. For what purpose? So that the Gentiles would also
follow His Laws.
v. 51- Repeat the promise,
David’s family will always be on the throne forever, fulfilled through Jesus.
Thursday, January 15, 2015
David, Part 2
Last Wednesday morning we finished our study of David. We will now move on to Solomon. Here is Part 2 of my notes on David (Part 3 will follow soon):
1st and 2nd
Sam. originally 1 book. Sources, see 1Chron. 29:29, 3 books- Book of Nathan the
prophet, Book of Samuel the seer, Book of Gad the seer. Written after 931 B.C.
after split in kingdom. Book divided in 2 by Septuagint.
2Sam. 1:1-10- An Amalakite,
no sense of the holiness of the Lord’s anointing, thinks will impress David
with false story, claiming to have carried out Saul’s last request, took symbols
of royalty. Also didn’t know about David’s recent battles with the Amalakites.
Clothes torn, dusty, plea for sympathy. See v.6- “…happened to be on Mt.
Gilboa…” probably not a soldier, but a scavenger, ready to rob the dead and
wounded.
v.11-12- not just mourning
individuals, but also the Lord’s people and that the pagans were given an
opportunity to celebrate a triumph over them. (see v.19-20).
v.14- this is the reason for
his execution, see 2Sam.4:10.
v.17-27- Song of the Bow- Bow
a symbol of military might. The tribe of Benjamin, Saul and Jonathan’s tribe,
noted for skill with a bow.
Book of Jasher, or, Book of
the Upright- national songbook of Israel before the book of Psalms. See Josh.
10: 12-13.
v.19-20- Pagans given cause
to celebrate. How the mighty have fallen, v. 19,25, and v. 23-24.
v.21- oil rubbed on leather
shields to preserve them.
v.26- Jonathan’s self denying
commitment. Risked own life to strengthen David. See 1Sam. 23.
2Sam. 2:1- just as David
didn’t kill Saul when he had the chance, David will not seize kingdom in his
own time. Will wait for God.
Hebron a central location in
Judah. A city of refuge. A loyal follower of God would not shed blood
ruthlessly, especially in a city of refuge.
v.4- anointed as king of
Judah. Already been anointed by Samuel in secret. A more direct challenge to
Saul’s family.
v.4-7- Even though Saul was
his enemy, David blessed Jabesh Gilead, even though Saul’s son was now their
master. David gave veiled invitation to join him.
v.8-10- Ishbosheth- a younger
son? At 40, would have made Jonathan much older than David, who was about 30
years old at this time. Ishbosheth not a warrior? Name means “man of shame.”
Name was originally Esh baal, “fire of Baal.” Born around time Saul became
king. Saul’s family was pagan, fire of Baal, human sacrifice. Remember, Michal
had pagan idol when helped David escape.
Abner- fighting for life of
self, family, use Saul’s son for own ambition.
v.10-11- after Ishbosheth’s 2
yr. reign, David waits for people to come to him, confirm David’s anointing.
v.12- Abner’s army depleted
after Saul’s defeat. Initiates action to prevent David’s influence from
spreading. Gibeon in Benjamin’s territory, where Saul was from.
v.15- Ishbosheth supported
mainly by own tribe. Tribe not just loyal to one of their own, but fearful what
David will do to them; not sure of David’s assurances. See v.7.
v.17- representative combat.
Like Philistines using Goliath as their champion. Effort failed. Both armies
joined the battle.
v.18- Zeruiah- David’s older
sister- 3 sons: Joab, Abishai (with David when David took Saul’s spear, water
jug, asked David if he could run Saul through with a spear.), and Asahel.
v.21-26- Abner wanted to
avoid killing Asahel, avoid blood feud with Joab. Abner proposes armistice to
prevent civil war, now that plans to stop David had failed.
2Sam3:1- about 5 ½ years.
v.2-5- David marrying more wives, breaking God’s
Law, Dt.17:17- “Nor shall he multiply wives for himself, lest his heart turn
away.” Writer doesn’t directly criticize, but let situation speak for itself,
expect reader to know the Law.
v.8- concubines were
inherited part of royal property. By taking concubine, Abner was making claim
to the throne. Ishbosheth sees this as treason.
v.9-10- knowledge of david’s
anointing as king spreads. Dan to
Beersheeba- the whole nation.
v.12- “whose land was it?” –
Abner or David’s? in Abner’s mind, it is his, had it in his power to transfer
kingdom to David. Tells David, “make agreement with me.” Abner wanted no
reprisals against him, family.
v.13- David demanded Michal
not out of any ill will against Saul’s house. Saul took Michal from him. David
wanted her back.
v.15-16- Saul didn’t respect
sanctity of marriage vows. David wanted Michal’s return to be act of king, not
Abner. This would acknowledge Saul’s deed as wrong, strengthen David’s claim to
the throne. Knew Ishbosheth would do all Abner would tell him.
v.18- did God really say
this.
v.19- in hearing of
Ishbosheth’s only supporters. Apparently tribe of Benjamin decided it was
better to side with David.
v.21- a covenant was binding,
would be done in God’s name, by this time, knew they could trust David to keep
a covenant. David sends Abner away in peace, part of evidence binding covenant
in place.
v.25- Joab hated Abner for
killing his brother, also, if Abner made peace with David, Abner would have
prominent place in kingdom, threaten Joab’s position, Abner would have been a
power to reckon with.
v.26-27- Hebron a city of
refuge. Abner thought Joab was summoning him on David’s behalf. Abner trusted
David. Joab made David look bad, untrustworthy. As God’s man in Israel, make
God look bad. This was against the Law, vengeance is mine, says the Lord.
Asahel died in battle, Abner did not murder him.
v.28- guiltless, no intent to
kill, individual responsibility. Joab not a man after God’s own heart, doesn’t
care to follow God’s Law. He fights for David because he is of family of David
and had to protect self, family from family of Saul. Joab made God look bad.
This is why Moses didn’t enter promise land. David was at the point of
convincing all of Israel he would be a king who didn’t seek vengeance, about
ready to unite Israel under him. Joab’s actions imperiled God’s plan. War would
continue for another 5 ½ years. David not yet secure enough to punish Joab.
v.29- see v.39- family traits
are evil, sons of Zeruiah. David not yet secure enough to punish Joab.
v.31- Joab compelled to
publicly mourn Abner, publicly declare own act wrong.
v.32- David buried former
enemy in own territory, gave him a state funeral .
v.34- David publicly disavows
Joab’s act, must gain trust of other tribes.
2Sam.4:1-probably knew he was
a dead man, many thought David would kill him, without Abner, there would be
civil strife, no leadership outside Judah.
v. 4- Mesh.’s nurse had
similar fears that David would kill Saul’s family.
Mesh.- means from the mouth
of a shameful thing. His name originally was Meri-baal, or, opponent of Baal.
Jonathan’s son.
v.6-7- killed by those of own
tribe, the killers desecrated the body of a king. Like the way the Philistines
desecrated Saul’s body.
v.8- David had covenant with
Jonathan and Saul concerning Saul’s descendants.
v.9- David trusted in God,
didn’t need to act in pagan bloodthirsty way. V.12- hung hands that did the
deed, feet that ran to and from crime and brought head to David.
Buried Ishbosheth with honor,
signal to tribe of Benjamin, other tribes that David holds no resentment
towards them.
2Sam.5:1- 5 ½ years after
Ishbosheth’s death, Israel had enough of leaderless strife. Came to trust
David. Recognize all Israelites were one people.
v.2- David built up trust,
showed he was the Lord’s anointed. See David as shepherd as well as warrior and
king.
v.3- Covenant and anointing
in Hebron, where all the patriarchs are buried.
v. 4-5- 7 ½ years in Judah,
33 years over all Israel. David 30 when became king of Judah. Jesus was 30 when
he began his ministry.
David’s kingship over Israel
came through covenant, not conquest.
v.6- Jerusalem- on border
between Judah and Benjamin, controlled by pagans, by making it his royal city,
neither tribe given the upper hand. 11
acres, 3,500 in population. Located on rise surrounded on 3 sides by deep
valleys. Jebusites thought their walls impregnable, referred to selves as blind
and lame (KJV and NKJV not clear here.)
v.7- 1st
occurrence of the word “zion” in Old test. Meaning unknown, referred originally
to southern most hill where Jebusite fortress was, later referred to whole
city.
v.8- water shafts used to
bring water into city during siege. See 1Chron. 11:4-9
Jebusites will remain in
Jerusalem, but will not be allowed in the palace.
v.11-12- 1st
nation to recognize David as king, Israel controlled inland trade routes to
Tyre, dependent on Israel for much of its food.
David knew God had exalted
him as king for the sake of national Israel.
v.14- Bathsheba is their
mother.
v.17- by now Philistines know
David had tricked them when he resided in their territory, he tricked them
about who he really attaked.
v.19, 24- David inquired of
the Lord, God didn’t have David do the same things twice.
v.21- images, what the
Philistines prayed to before a battle, shown to be worthless, burned by David,
1st Chron. 14:12.
v.24- the Lord marched before
David, it is the Lord that fights our battles.
Fear of David upon all
nations, 1Chron. 14:17.
Chapter 6:1- 70 years since
ark taken into house of Aminadad after capture by Philistines.
David started with 400 men,
now had 30,000. David is establishing God’s kingship over whole nation.
v.2- ark represented very
presence of God. Lord of Hosts- name revealed everything God revealed Himself
to be.
v.3- not the prescribed way
of the Law. See Ex. 25:10-22. David followed Philistine example, carried it in
a cart.
v.6-7- error means
irreverence. Not even priests were allowed to touch ark, or look at it. When
the directions were not followed, no way of dealing with this difficulty.
v.9- fear from guilt,
responsibility.
v.10- Obed-Edom, family of Levitical priests, door
keepers.
v. 12- God’s anger appeased.
v.13- David finds proper way,
the presence of God carried by people, not things.
v.14- David worshipped with
all his might- loved the Lord with all strength, mind, might, and soul.
Rejoicing- literally,
spinning around. Elsewhere in Old Testament,
only the women dance. Michal described as Saul’s daughter, not David’s wife.
Prideful like her father, not humble like her husband.
v.20- uncover self, divest
self of royal robes, wearing ephod. Base fellows, common man.
v.23-
punishment for her pride, punishment on the house of Saul. No rivals for
kingship from this pagan family later on.
1Chron. 16- culmination of
events beginning with God telling Moses to take Israel out of Egypt, Moses
telling Pharaoh to let God’s people go that they may worship God, but not final
culmination. That would come later when Solomon dedicates the Temple. What does
David emphasize? What has been emphasized throughout these lessons-
v. 8-13- give thanks, call on
His name. He is not like pagan gods. Sing to Him, praise Him, speak of all He
has done. Seek Him, He can be found. History important, remember His works,
judgments.
v.14-19- Importance of
Covenant.
v. 20-22- He protected His
people.
v. 23-24- His salvation is
for all peoples.
v.25-27- God is not like the
idols, see verse 26- God made the heavens, He is completely separate from
creation, unlike the idols.
v. 28-30- worship in
prescribed way in holiness.
v.31-33- God reigns and will
judge the earth.
v.34-36-
Moses to Pharaoh- let my people go so they may worship God.
2Sam. 7: 1- (in ancient world, histories and biographies
were not always chronological, more interested in developing theme than
chronology.)
Rest from enemies, now David
thinks of God’s house.
v.3- Nathan encourages David
to build, God has other plans. Human common sense cannot be our guide.
v.4- Nathan had to humble
himself, admit he was wrong. Even a prophet has to be careful when he claims he
speaks for God.
v.5- Are you the one to build
me a house? See 1Chron. 28:3.
“…my servant David…” remember
Moses called God’s servant, then Joshua when he obeyed God.
v.6- God is God no matter
where He appears.
v.7- it was God’s intent that
Israel be shepherded, not that Israel would build Him a house.
v.8- God reminds David what
He has done for him, not in a threatening way, but to remind David of His
goodness, so David will trust in God and be confident that God will fulfill
what He is about to promise David.
v.9- God had been wherever
David had gone (God is not bound by geography like pagan gods), saved David from
his enemies, made David’s name great.
v.10-11- move no more as
Abraham, Moses, and Joshua did. Israel will not be oppressed like in the time
of the Judges.
v.11- David won’t build God a
house, but God will build David a house, a royal line, final fulfillment in
Christ’s Kingdom.
v.12-15- speaking of Solomon,
he shall build the Temple, throne will last forever in Christ and His Church.
Solomon will be punished when his son will lose most of the kingdom.
v.15- Solomon will stay on
throne, unlike Saul whom God removed. Not just Saul, but Saul’s family
punished. Judah will outlast Israel.
v.16- one of the many verses
that led Israel to believe Messiah will be like David.
v.18- David sat before the
Lord, sat before the ark.
Humility, not of great
origin.
v.19- God is sovereign, Lord
of Hosts.
Is this like Man? God is not
like pagan gods, who are just humanity super sized.
v.21- God did these things
for His sake, so David would know that God can be trusted.
v.22- therefore, because of
these things, God is great. God does these things so we know He is great.
Testimony, history.
v.23- God chose to work
through Israel as a testimony to the entire world. Ruth, Rahab, the Kenites,
all those who became Jews.
v.24- a people who look to no
other god.
v. 25-29- because of God’s
promise, David moved to pray. Worship is in response to God’s goodness. Faith
in God’s goodness, David knows God will fulfill His promise because God is
good.
2Sam. 8:1- literally, The
Bridle of the Mother City. Philistines had a king and princes of cities.
v.2- killed 2 out of 3
prisoners. Did David ask for their surrender? Moabites are his people, from
Ruth his great grandmother.
v.3- Land promised to Abraham
by God extended to the Euphrates river.
v.4- hamstring- cut the
tendon. Horses only good for farming. Israel and king not to rely on horses,
but God in battle, Dt. 17:16.
v. 7-11- dedicated articles
to the Lord, not used for his own glory. Solomon will use them for Temple and
it’s services.
v.12- Edom, Moab, Ammonite,
Philistines, Amalek. God using David to subdue them.
v.13-14- Edom- older will
serve younger. What God told Rebekah concerning her children.
2Sam. 9: 1- for the sake of covenant with Jonathan,
and later, Saul.
v. 3- acting for God,
modeling God’s kindness.
v. 7- probably Gibeah.
v.8- Mephibosheth, does he
know about the covenant between David and Jonathan? Doesn’t know God’s
kindness.
v. 11- David- model of
Christ. Christ restores us and lets us eat at God’s table.
v.12- many years have passed;
Mephibosheth, 5 yrs old when he has become lame, now has son of his own.
2Sam. 11:1- Read entire
chapter before going over it.
“…when kings go to battle…” –April-May, after
the grain harvest, 10 years as king in Jerusalem. No responsibilities, let
guard down, personal body guard not surrounding him.
v.2- roofs were flat, people
bathed on them, David knew that.
v.4- 2Sam. 23:39- Uriah
listed as one of David’s mighty men, elite warriors of David’s personal body
guard, special forces. Bathsheba’s father, Eliam, also listed in this group.
Uriah a Hittite- either
became a Jew, or family did. Name means “my light is the Lord.” Had adopted
Israel’s faith.
Cleansed of menstrual cycle,
not pregnant, so when she becomes pregnant, she knows it is David’s child.
v.4- took her. Did she have a
choice? Yes, according to God’s Law; would David have relented if she had
quoted the Law, reminded him of the fact that he was God’s man, like Abigail
did?
David breaks 4 of the 10 commandments, 6th
(murder), 7th adultery), 9th(false witness), and 10th
(coveting).
v.5- penalty for adultery-
Lev. 20:10, Dt. 22:22.
v. 6-13- David attempts to
deceive. Uriah shows the very qualities David expected of his warriors. David
had never display a lack of integrity before.
v.8- food from the king’s
table, wanted Uriah, Bathsheba to enjoy themselves. Bathsheba in on deception.
v.11- David should be with
the troops. Uriah behaves as David should have. The ark symbolized God’s
presence on the battlefield, but David not there with his men.
v.15- Uriah carries his own
death warrant.
v.16- David made it look like
Uriah guilty of something worthy of death, some secret treachery. David attacks
the reputation of an upright man. In the Psalms, David bitterly complains to
God about the lies told about him.
v.17- servants- men who
committed their lives to David.
v. 18-25- David would have
been justifiably angry if he himself had not ordered Joab to place men close to
the wall of the enemy city. David guilty of the murder of those who died with
Uriah.
v. 26-27- David violated
God’s Law, abused the power given to him by God to shepherd the nation. 1st
time scripture says David displeased the Lord.
2Sam. 12: 1-4- A direct
accusation might have caused David to deny the charge, justify self, or punish
Nathan.
David from humble origins, on
the side of the down trodden, knows what its like to suffer from the hands of
the mighty.
No honor to the guest if rich
man didn’t feed him from his own provisions.
A heinous crime in Israel to
steal pet and kill it, but,
v.5-6- Ex.22:1- theft is not punishable by death in
the Old Testament.
v.7- “You are that man!” You
judge, so judgment comes upon you! I made you king, I delivered you from Saul,
David acted with lack of gratitude to God, acted as if he was king through his
own efforts. David was saved through the miraculous saving power of God, but
David acted as if God didn’t exist.
v.8- David given much, should
have been satisfied. Had he wanted more, should have had the faith that God
would provide. God is the source of contentment.
v. 9-11- no regard for God’s
Law. Broke 4 of 10 commandments. Killed Uriah, other of his soldiers with the
sword, even if he didn’t actually wield it himself. Taken wife, family, David will suffer
proportional punishment- “eye for an eye.” David will suffer from acts of own
family. “The sword will never leave your house.”
v. 11-12- David acted as if
God didn’t see in secret, God will punish David in the open.
v.13- confession, no attempt
to justify self, didn’t kill or inprison Nathan. The Law condemned David to
death (Ex. 21:12, Lev. 20:10), but the Lord forgives David. Why? David was made king to exalt the nation
of Israel and to be a picture of Christ. Yet David will suffer the
consequences.
v. 14- given God’s enemies an
occasion to blaspheme (to ridicule belief in God) like Saul did. David was
known to be God’s man. David made God look bad, like Moses did.
v. 23- no infant damnation.
v.24- Solomon means peace.
Jeddidiah
means loved by the Lord. Shows God’s continuing grace to a repentant David.
Ps. 51- To the chief
musician- of David-after confronted by Nathan about Bathsheba. Confession before all not only what he had
done, but admission that apart from God, he is ungodly, sinful. Public role,
his repentance had to be public.
v. 1-2- have mercy on me,
don’t just forgive, but cleanse. Reliance on God for cleansing, not self, not
ritual.
According to God’s tender
mercies- David knew of these by experience.
Blot out- like a scroll of
David’s kingship kept by God.
v.4- David confesses sin was
primarily against God. Broke 4 out of 10 commandments. All sin against persons
are sins against God because they are in God’s image.
v.5 does this mean we are
sinful because of parents procreative act. No. We are born to sin because we
are born with ability to willfully choose sin.
v. 6- God desires truth in
inward parts- conduct is not just play acting, but acknowledgement that God is
real. Our conduct is acting in faith that God is real and He sees and knows all
and is a holy God. He reads our thoughts, knows what is in our hearts. If obey,
God will provide wisdom. Like Sermon on the Mount- if lust in heart, impure.
v. 7- prayer for moral
integrity- God can make me so clean there are no words to describe it. Purge
with hyssop- an herb associated with cleansing, purification. Wash- not just
simple cleaning, but beating, pounding.
v.8- let me hear prophetic
utterance of forgiveness that leads to assurance of salvation.
v. 10-11- God does this-
create new hearts with new desires.
Steadfast- sturdy, strong,
reliable.
Without confession and
repentance, Holy Spirit grieves. God cannot be in presence of sin. David had
been in sin for nearly a year. Holy Spirit can depart, one can lose their
salvation. David remembers Saul, doen’t want to end up like him.
v. 12-13- restore joy of
salvation, sure knowledge that leads to assurance of salvation. The Holy Spirit
is generous, David knows God, then will reach, teach sinners.
v. 14- save me from the guilt
of murder.\
v.15- salvation resulting in
praise.
v.16-19- no faith in
sacrifices, this would lead to play acting before others. But faith in God,
brokenness before God, then God will accept sacrifices offered in faith. A
prayer not just for himself, but for Jerusalem and all his people.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)