David and solomon
2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles
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Week 25 - Read 2 Samuel 1-4 and 1 Chronicles 1-9
Class Discussion Recording
Key Concepts:
The key concepts here are that David will continue to demonstrate faithfulness
to Saul, show political acumen and that in Chronicles the writer will use
genealogies to demonstrate that God’s people encompass both Israel and other
nations, as well as the good, bad and the ugly within the nation of Israel
itself.
Stories: Our stories in 2 Samuel pick up with the death of Saul and include David’s receiving the news of Saul’s death, David’s having the messenger executed, a lament for Saul, David being declared the King of Judah while Ishbosheth is made King of Israel (meaning all tribes other than Judah), the initial skirmish between the “generals” of the two nations, the ensuing war, David’s fertileness, David’s diplomacy, Joab’s betrayal, David’s wise political move in the face of the betrayal, the murder of Ishbosheth and the execution of the murderers. 1 Chronicles begins with nine chapters of genealogy. These begin with Adam and include the children of Abraham (including those from Ishmael) and finish with the first returnees to the land of Israel after the exile (which we will not reach for quite some time). Brief Summary: We begin with the transition from the reign of Saul to the reign of David. In 1 Samuel we have been given at least a couple of reasons why God had abandoned Saul, even as Saul remained the king and defender of Israel for an extended period of time. With his death the nation needed to choose new leadership. Judah immediately chose David (which is linked to his having been chosen by God for the job). The northern tribes chose Ishbosheth, a son of Saul (remembering that Jonathan, Saul’s chosen heir had died with Saul). Each of the leaders had generals (Joab-David, Abner-Ishbosheth). War breaks out almost immediately and continues for about seven years. Over time Abner sees the tide turning and tries to strike a deal with David. David is willing but Joab is not and murders Abner. Ultimately Ishbosheth is murdered as well. This opens the door for David to become the only king.on |
Through
these stories we witness David’s ability to have his enemies killed while
remaining above the fray. First when a
messenger brings word of Saul’s death (and the crown) David has him executed
because he killed Saul, even though the man was doing what Saul asked of him. Thus David can become king without having
killed Saul. Next when Abner is murdered
by Joab, David praises Abner (even though they had been at war) thus insuring
the northern tribes that he, David, is an honorable man, deserving to be king. The same thing happens when Ishbosheth is
murdered. David has the killers put to
death in order to show his innocence in the matter. David then has Ishbosheth’s head (which had
been brought to him) buried in the same place as was Abner. These moves open the door for David to be
seen by Israel as God’s chosen leader and not a usurper of Saul’s throne.
The first two chapters of Chronicles contain genealogies which are faithful to the Genesis account. What is fascinating about these genealogies is that they remind the reader that David is connected both to the people of Israel as well to other nations which had been enemies of Israel. It also offers reminders of those times when the people of the earth were not faithful (Noah and the Tower of Babel) as well as when they were (Abraham). In addition the writer does not move immediately to David’s line but takes the time to look at all of the other tribes. This is important because it reminds the reader that God cares for all of Israel (north and south) and not simply one tribe. 1. What is your current impression of David? What can we learn from him? 2. Even though David condemns Abner’s murder he lets Joab live. What do you make of that? 3. Why are genealogies important? What lessons can we learn from them?Soon |
Week 26 - Read Psalms 6, 8, 9, 10, 14, 16, 19, 21, 43, 44, 45,
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are
a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of
time. Stories: As with many of the Psalms we are not sure when they were composed or the exact situation in which they were written. Fortunately they can speak and have spoken to people across the centuries.
Psalm Themes: Once again we encounter the themes of people who are beset by enemies, hurting, crying out for God’s help, seeking deliverance, viewing God as a protector and a place of refuge, and yet are willing to give God thanks and praise in the midst of tough times. Psalm 6 – This is a powerful Psalm that written by someone who is virtually at the end of their rope. They are almost afraid that they have been abandoned by God and are about to die because of their enemies. Yet there is confidence that God will act. Psalm 8 – Psalm 8 is another famous psalm. It contains the phrase, “What are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them. You have made them a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honor.” This psalm harkens back to the creation story in which human beings are made in the image of God and set in the world to care for it. Psalm 9 – This is a post-deliverance psalm. God has acted in the life of the writer to defeat his enemies and liberate the oppressed. What is interesting is that all praise for the victory goes to God and not to the king or the army. This is very different from other nations who focused praise on individuals. Psalm 10 – The writer wonders if God will ever come down and execute justice. Evil is winning and he does not believe that God can or will act. The poor and the righteous are harmed. A cry goes up calling upon God to come down from on high and deliver justice for the orphan and oppressed. |
Psalm 14 – This psalm reminds us that “They (meaning human beings) have all gone astray, they are all alike and perverse; there is no one who does good…” The Apostle Paul will quote this in his letter to the Romans. Even so the writer hopes that God will restore Israel.
Psalm 16 – The Psalmist rejoices that God has given him counsel and has shown him the path of life. He knows that in God there is joy and pleasure. This is not so for those who follow other gods. Psalm 19 – Again a famous Psalm, “The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech….” This psalm goes on to praise the law of the Lord which is to be more desired than gold. Psalm 21 – This Psalm makes it clear that the king is blessed by God because the king trusts in the Lord. What this also means is that the Lord is the power behind the throne. Thus it is the Lord who deserves praise. Psalm 43 – Another famous Psalm, “Why are you cast down O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God for I shall again praise him.” Psalm 44 – Israel has suffered a defeat and the nation is asking God to remember his covenant and come to the rescue. Psalm 45 – This is probably a wedding hymn for a wedding in which the king is marrying someone who is a foreigner. 1. Which of these psalms resonates with you the most? Why? 2. Which of these psalms is the most disturbing? Why? 3. How should the psalms about the king shape our understanding of power? |
Week 27 - Read Psalms 11, 49, 59, 73, 77, 78, 84, 85, 87
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Stories: As with many of the Psalms we are not sure when they were composed or the exact situation in which they were written. Fortunately they can speak and have spoken to people across the centuries. Psalm Themes: Once again we encounter the themes of people who are beset by enemies, hurting, crying out for God’s help, seeking deliverance, viewing God as a protector and a place of refuge, and yet are willing to give God thanks and praise in the midst of tough times. Psalm 11 – This is a psalm of justice where God sits enthroned in heaven and watches the actions of human beings. God hates violence and loves righteous deeds. God will also make an end to those who harm others. Psalm 49 – This is a Wisdom psalm meaning that it speaks of the transient nature of life. Everyone dies. No one lives forever. All of the chasing after wealth and pomp is foolishness. So even when people are happy in this life, they are like “the animals that perish.” Psalm 59 – The writer is seeking deliverance both personal and national. This psalm contains some vivid language describing those who seek to do harm. “Each evening they come back like howling dogs and prowling about the city. They roam about for food and growl if they do not get their fill.” Psalm 73 – This is another Wisdom Psalm in which the writer makes it clear that he almost fell into the trap of thinking that riches were the be all and end all of life. Instead he went to the Temple and realized that God was the only thing that lasts. Psalm 77 – This Psalm returns us to a writer who is in despair. He wonders if God will leave him forever. But then he remembers the great deeds of the Lord and so finds hope. |
Psalm 78 – This Psalm was probably used at some of Israel’s religious festivals. It recounts the mighty deeds of God in liberating Israel, but also reminds the people of Israel’s faithlessness.
Psalm 84 – This is probably a pilgrim psalm, used by those who are traveling to the Temple (which means it would have been written after the time of David). In it we hear about how much people desire to be in the house of God. We find the following line here, “I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than live in the tents of wickedness.” It is a reminder to us of the place and importance of the Temple in the life of Israel. Psalm 85 – The underlying assumption of this psalm is that the nation has drifted away from God (such as during the time of the Judges) and God has punished them for it. The people seek forgiveness and restoration. They desire to once again experience God’s steadfast love. In order to receive this forgiveness the people know that they must once again orient their lives to God’s ways. If they do so peace will reign. Psalm 87 – It has been speculated that this Psalm is somewhat fragmented…it does not flow as well as others. None-the-less it is a psalm which glorifies Zion (Jerusalem). Its citizens have spread out across the world, and yet are greatly prized by God. 1. How do you see God meting out justice? 2. What sort of songs would you classify as Christian pilgrim songs? 3. What is your take on the idea of national repentance? |
Week 28 - Read 2 Samuel 5 - 6 and 1 Chronicles 10-16
Key Concepts:
The key concepts in these sections, especially in 1 Chronicles are that David
is presented as the perfect God-chosen ruler (as over Saul) and that David will
insure that Jerusalem becomes not only the political, but also the religious
center of Israelite life.
Stories: In 2 Samuel we have David’s enthronement over all of Israel, the capture of Jerusalem, war with the Philistines, a first failed attempt to bring the Ark into Jerusalem, a second successful attempt to bring it in, David’s half-naked dancing and his wife Michal’s disgust with him and her punishment. In 1 Chronicles we read of Saul’s death (along with all of his family), the bravery of the people of Jabesh-Gilead in recovering Saul’s body for burial, all Israel gathering to make David king, the capture of Jerusalem, a listing of David’s mighty men, David’s desire to bring the Ark to Jerusalem, a first unsuccessful attempt to bring the Ark into Jerusalem, the friendship of King Hiram of Tyre, David’s expanding family, war with the Philistines, the building of David’s house, the preparation of a place for the Ark, a second and more religiously appropriate bringing of the Ark into Jerusalem, Michal’s disgust with David, songs of praise for God’s faithfulness and completion of the Covenant promises and the appropriate elements of worship before the Ark. Brief Summary: We enter into the portions of Samuel and Kings which run side-by-side. What we will notice however is that while some of the stories are often the same, Chronicles offers us a very different perspective on David and his reign. In some ways the writer of Chronicles presents David as he ought to have been rather than as he was. David and his men of valor become larger than life characters who personify ultimate bravery and faithfulness to God in every conceivable way. There are many places where 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles diverge. We will look at two. The first concerns Saul’s death. 2 Samuel makes it clear that, following Saul’s death, a war ensues between David and Saul’s family and allies. |
This war lasts for a number of years and is only resolved when the leader of the Saul clan is assassinated. It is only then that Israel comes to David and invites him to be their king.
In the 1 Chronicles story there is no mention of the war. In fact, it is implied that Saul’s entire family was killed by the Philistines, whereupon all of Israel immediately went over to David. In addition 1 Chronicles tells us that many of the mightiest men of Israel had come over to David prior to Saul’s death. Why the difference? Speculation is that the writer wants to insure that David is seen as the one and only king who was truly chosen by God. Thus all allegiance is to be given to David and his line. A second place where the stories diverge is in the bringing of the Ark into Jerusalem. In Samuel we once again see the “earthly” David. When Uzzah is killed while touching the Ark, David drops the Ark like a hot-potato. Later when he sees that God has blessed the people caring for the Ark, David wants it brought into the city. In so doing David dances in such a way that he literally exposes himself in public, for which his wife Michal despises him. In Chronicles we learn that when Uzzah is killed David places the Ark with a priestly family, then follows all of the appropriate Torah rules for carrying the Ark into the city. This includes making sure only Levites carry the Ark. Finally Michal hates him not for exposing himself but because she is like her father Saul, an evil person. Once again then David is seen as the perfect leader who lives in total Torah allegiance. 1. Which of the two stories do you prefer and why? 2. What do these differing stories tell you about how “history” is understood by the writers? 3. Why do you think the Biblical compilers included both sets of stories? |
Week 29 - Read Psalms 81, 88, 92, 93, 102, 103, 104, 106, 107, 133
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Stories: As with many of the Psalms we are not sure when they were composed or the exact situation in which they were written. Fortunately they can speak and have spoken to people across the centuries. Psalm Themes: In this section of Psalms we find themes ranging from cries for help to praises for God’s amazing creation. Psalm 88 – This appears to be a Psalm offered by one who is close to death. There is a palpable fear that death will soon overcome them and all will be lost as they go to Sheol. What is interesting in this Psalm is that the writer tries to convince God to act by reminding God that the dead cannot praise him. Additionally there is no confidence that God will act. The Psalmist cries out in prayer, but there is no relief. Psalm 92 – In some ways this Psalm is almost a polar opposite of Psalm 88. While illness and death are not the enemies in this Psalm, there are those who tried to assail the writer. God however, intervened and saved the author. Thus the Psalmist gives praise to God because God has rescued him because of his righteousness. Psalm 93 – This Psalm breaks the pattern of Psalms which focus on illness and oppression. It is a Psalm used at a religious festival. It is a celebrative reminder that God rules over all the powers of the world including primordial chaos. Psalm 102 – Though the topic of this Psalm is once again pain and illness, it is filled with some of the most amazing imagery in the Psalms. “For my days pass away like smoke.” “I lie awake. I am like a lonely bird on the housetop.” At the same time, unlike in Psalm 88, the writer professes that God will act and will deliver. “The children of thy servants shall dwell secure.” |
Psalm 103 – This Psalm is one with which we should all be familiar. It begins, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits—who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases…” It is an affirmation that God heals.
Psalm 104 – God as creator is the focus of this hymn. In soaring lyrical language the Psalmist praise God for the magnificence of his creation as well as God’s continuing efforts at ordering of all that creation contains. Psalm 106 – This Psalm begins with praise and a reminder of God’s love, followed by a corporate prayer of confession (for the sins of the people across time), then a request that God will save the people and is completed by the words, “Praise the Lord.” Psalm 107 – This is a marvelous hymn which recounts the myriad of ways in which God has saved God’s people (from the desert, darkness, sickness, storms and hunger). The final affirmation is that God will protect the powerless. Psalm 133 – Though this Psalm is only three verses long, it has become a beloved Psalm about unity. “Behold how good and pleasant it is when brothers and sisters dwell in unity.” 1. How willing are you to cry out to God when you are in distress? 2. For what part of creation would you give the most praise to God? 3. From what dangers or difficult times has God saved you? |
Week 30 - Read 2 Samuel 7-10 and 1 Chronicles 17-19
Key Concepts: These two sections establish the Davidic Covenant in which God promises that a descendant of David will reign over Israel forever. They also tell us that King David is not only the dominant leader of the people but Israel is the dominant military power in the area
Stories: In 1 Samuel we have David finding some rest, David wanting to build a “house” for God, God refusing the offer and promising to make David a “house”, the Davidic Covenant, David’s prayer, ongoing military conflicts, David’s governmental appointments, David’s kindness to Saul’s grandson, the appointment of Ziba to care for Saul’s lands, and finally conflict with and domination of the Ammoniates and Syrians. The stories in 1 Chronicles closely parallel those in the Samuel texts with a few exceptions. The first is that it is mentioned that the bronze captured by David is used by Solomon in the Temple (1 Chron. 18:8). The second is that the stories of Saul’s grandson are not included. Finally David’s sons, while listed as priests in the Samuel text are listed as government officials in the Chronicles text. Brief Summary: Chapter seven of 2 Samuel is one of the most important in the Old Testament. It is the creation of another covenant. In the past we have seen the Noetic Covenant (God will not destroy the earth with a flood), the Abrahamic Covenant (God will bless Abram and through Abram all the families of the earth), the Mosaic Covenant (in which the people agree to obey God’s Law) and the Priestly Covenant (where Aaron is promised that his descendants will be priests forever). Now we find the Davidic Covenant. In this covenant, God promises that a descendant of David will always sit on the throne of Israel. The word play in this part of the text centers on David wanting to build a “house” or temple for God, while God wants to build David into a “house”, or lineage of kings. This covenant plays a central role in later Judaism and Christianity. |
As noted above, one of the main differences between Samuel and Chronicles concerns the story of Saul’s grandson, Mephibosheth. The writer of Samuel has portrayed David as a man who recognized the ongoing political realities of ruling a divided kingdom. One of those realities concerned the remnant of the house of Saul. Chances are that even as David proved himself an able military leader, there was an undercurrent of support for Saul’s family. By honoring Mephibosheth, David binds those factions to himself. This is also seen in the fact that David names a servant of Saul, Ziba, to care for Saul’s lands. The Chronicler cannot include this story because he had earlier declared that all of Saul’s family was wiped out.
Another significant difference between these two stories concerns David’s sons. Samuel tells us that not only did David sacrifice but that his sons were priests. This is seen as simply the natural way of things in which the king shares priestly duties. Chronicles cannot allow this understanding to stand. The only people who can be priests are those who are of the official Aaronic families. Chronicles wants to maintain a separation of powers between the political (king) and religious (priests). The other major emphasis in this section is that of the expanding influence of Israel as a regional power. Israel never becomes a dominant world power, but for a small period of time when Egypt, Assyria and Babylon were weak, Israel filled the vacuum. 1. Where in the New Testament do you see the Davidic covenant being important? 2. Why do you believe it might be important to separate political and religious power? 3. What similarities do you see between this period of history and the present situation in the Middle East? |
Week 31 - Read Psalms 1, 2, 15, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: These Psalms contain themes ranging from cries for help, to affirmation of the Law and its importance, to personal trust in God and to a reflection on God’s faithfulness. Psalm 1 – This is a Wisdom Psalm, meaning that it reflects a simplistic view that those who do what is right (in this case meditating on and living by God’s Torah) will be blessed, while those who do not will be cursed. It also emphasizes the importance of making Godly choices because “the way of the wicked shall perish.” Psalm 2 – The King is the focus of this Psalm. It has been speculated that this Psalm was used at a coronation of a new king. In it we find several themes including the continuing rebellion of subjugated peoples, God’s protection and empowering of the King and the vision that one day all nations shall fall under the rule of Israel (as represented by the King). The word “anointed” (vs. 2) is the Hebrew word for “messiah.” The implication is that to serve the Lord means to serve the King. Psalm 15 - Once again we come upon a Psalm that is liturgy, meaning part of the ritual worship-life of the people. The liturgy reflects the holiness of the Temple, the place where God dwells. And because of the Temple being the dwelling place of God only those who prepare themselves by living faithful lives (meaning obedience to the ethical rules of Torah) are to be allowed into the Temple. The focus is not legalism (only perfect people get in) but rather on God’s call to lives appropriately and lovingly lived. Psalm 20 – We return again to a Psalm focused on the King. This is a prayer for the King (the anointed) to be victorious. |
What is interesting about this Psalm is that while it is a prayer for the King it is clear that victory will not come because of better weapons or tactics but because God will make it so. “Some boast in chariots, and some of horses; but we boast of the name of the Lord our God.”
Psalm 22 – This Psalm is one that contains three distinct sections. The first is a desperate cry for help. The writer’s life is being taken from him and he cries out day and night. Even though the writer believes in God, the writer’s enemies are destroying him. The second part of the Psalm is a pledge to make a formal offering of praise in the Temple if God delivers him. Finally we have the hymn of praise which will be offered upon deliverance. Psalm 23 – Psalm 23 is the best known and beloved Psalm in the Bible. It is a marvelous expression of trust in God’s care and protection. We hear God described as a good shepherd who guides the writer into right living, even when darkness descends. And when darkness does descend, God, as would a good host, provides sustenance, protection and blessing forever. Psalm 24 - We now encounter our third liturgical piece in this set of Psalms. Some scholars believe that it was sung as the ark was brought into the Temple. You can hear the responsive nature of the Psalm. It begins with a declaration about God. This is followed by a question, “Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?” The response is, “The one who has clean hands…” Next we have a declarative section in which the doors of the Temple are commanded to open, “Lift up your heads, O gates.” 1. How could you see Psalms being used today as part of our liturgy? 2. How do you respond to the Psalmist waiting to be delivered before offering praise to God? 3. How has the 23rd Psalm touched your life? |
Week 32 - Read Psalms 36, 39, 47, 50, 53, 60, 68, 75
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: This set of Psalms covers God as judge, the uplifting of the righteous, the punishment of the wicked, cries for help and praises for God’s saving work. Psalm 36 – This Psalm begins with a disturbing and realistic picture of those who are evil. They have no fear of God. They plot mischief in their beds. They do not reject evil. However the work of the wicked is juxtaposed with God’s unfailing love for those who seek refuge with him. The righteous feast on abundance in God’s house and receive the salvation of God. The Psalm concludes with a petition to protect the righteous. Psalm 39 – This is a disturbing Psalm. The Psalmist tells God that he has not cried out even in the midst of suffering, yet now, after a long time, the Psalmist has no other choice. The writer wonders why God has so afflicted him…considering that the writer is merely passing through this world. The Psalmist ends by asking God to ignore him (look away from me) that he might find some joy before death. Psalm 47 – As was noted in earlier articles one of the great traditions of Israel is that God is the real King. Human kings merely serve as God’s helpers. This Psalm is an enthronement Psalm for God. God is king of the earth…not merely Israel. Therefore God is to be praised by all people and leaders. Psalm 50 – One of the great themes of the Old Testament is that of God as judge. This idea is at the heart of this Psalm. There are two things to note here. First God is judging God’s people…not foreigners. Second God is judging them because they have not lived as they ought to have lived. Not even the sacrificial system of the Temple can save them because the people have “cast “ God’s words behind them. |
Psalm 53 – The writer makes clear that the world can be and often is a place filled with evil. All of humanity has sinned and fallen away from the manner in which God wants them to live. The evil are those who “eat up God’s people as they eat bread.” Fortunately God will deliver God’s people and restore their fortunes even in the face of this evil.
Psalm 60 – We have read numerous Psalms which are cries for help from individuals who are sick, oppressed and in danger. This Psalm is one which focuses on a nation at risk. It is a prayer for national deliverance. The writer believes that the defeats of God’s people have happened because God has not gone out to battle with God’s people. The plea is that God will change God’s mind and bring victory. Psalm 68 – Some scholars say that this Psalm is one of the most difficult to interpret because it appears to be made up of a wide variety of elements. It contains a prayer for God to lead in battle, a praise of God who protects the powerless (meaning widows and orphans), an announcement of a victory, a description of people entering the Temple and a prayer for victory over Egypt. Psalm 75 – We complete this set of readings with a corporate Psalm that offers thanks to God for all that God has done for the people. It also warns people not to be too proud or believe that they are more powerful than God, because God will bring down the wicked. 1. Psalm 39 asks God to turn away in order to bring joy to the writer. What do you make of that? 2. Psalm 50 speaks of God as judge. How do you square God as judge with the God who loves? 3. How do you see the church working for God to protect the vulnerable (Psalm 68)? |
Week 33 - Read Psalms 89, 90, 96, 100, 101, 105, 132
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: This set of Psalms focuses on David’s troubles, God’s promises of kingship, the transient nature of life and calls to praise God. Psalm 89 – in this Psalm, the writer is holding God accountable for the promises that God has made. God promised that David would be established as king along with his descendants. At the writing of this Psalm however things are not going well for David. He is in dire straits. The Psalmist blames this on God and calls up God to be faithful and restore the fortunes of David. Psalm 90 – this Psalm comes from the depths of despair. It can be seen as either a communal or an individual Psalm. The focus is on the brevity of life. People live for a short period then they die and are swept away. The prayer is that God will make sure that the short days are not filled with evil (which God has brought because of the sins of the people) but with good. Psalm 96 – this is one of the most beautiful Psalms as regards the glory and magnificence of God. The praise of God is to come in the form of song and declaration. It is to come from heaven, from all the earth, from all the people and even from the trees of the woods. This is a clear reminder that God is distinct from creation and that creation itself has a life given to it by God. Psalm 100 – once again we hear a Psalm that calls upon all of the nations to praise God. It reminds us of the intimate relationship between God and the people; sheep and shepherd. It also is an affirmation of the eternal love of God for God’s people. The response to both of these realities is to be praise and thanksgiving to God. |
Psalm 101 – it might be that this Psalm should be read on a daily basis by all of those who hold elected office. It is the pledge of the king to uphold justice and walk with integrity. The king promises to insure that those who slander and practice deceit will be driven out and those who are faithful will be rewarded. In addition the king will not even look at things that are base.
Psalm 105 – whereas many of the previous Psalms have dealt with the promises to David and his kingship, this Psalm is a retelling of a more ancient covenantal promise. The basis for this Psalm is that of the Covenant Promise to Abraham. The covenant includes the idea of the “land” of Canaan as a possession. The writer retells the story of the covenant beginning with Abraham, then moving to Joseph and then to Moses. There is a recounting of the plagues in Egypt and the Exodus out of captivity. This Psalm is important because it reminds us that the basis for the Davidic promises rests on a much more ancient promise. Psalm 132 – in this final Psalm the writer is reminding God of God’s promises to David. It lifts up David as the faithful one who desired to make for God and God’s ark a resting place. It also reminds God of the promise that there would always be a descendant of David on the throne as long as God’s people were faithful. Finally it tells of Zion (Jerusalem) as being God’s resting place and the blessings that will arise when God resides there. 1. What do you make of the all of the Davidic promises? How do you see those impacting our world? 2. Psalm 100 is all about praise. For what would you praise God? 3. How would you bring Psalm 105 to bear upon the struggle between Israel and the Palestinians over the land they share? |
Week 34 - Read 2 Samuel 11-18 and 1 Chronicles 20
Key Concepts: The key concepts in this section are that David allows his power to lead him away from God and into inappropriate behaviors that threaten his kingship and kingdom, and that David is incapable of managing his family.
Stories: We begin with David and Bathsheba, Nathan’s declaration that David has sinned, God’s proclamation of war on David’s house, the birth of Solomon, the rape of Tamar, the murder of Amnon by Absalom, Absalom’s banishment and return, Absalom’s betrayal and rebellion, David’s flight from Jerusalem, the battle for the kingship and the death of Absalom. Brief Summary: Up to this point in 2 Samuel, David has come across as an upstanding guy who, though he could be a bit devious, appears to truly be a man after God’s own heart. The stories we will read in this section change all of that. They are so disturbing in fact that the writer of Chronicles skips right over them. 1 Chronicles 20 ignores everything that happens in the 2 Samuel texts in order to maintain the fiction that David was the perfect man of God. Our 2 Samuel texts begin with the story of David and Bathsheba. Bathsheba is married to one of David’s most loyal warriors, Uriah the Hittite. While Uriah is off fighting David’s enemies, and David is at home, David sees Bathsheba bathing, has her brought to his chambers where they have sex. Bathsheba becomes pregnant. In order to cover up their actions David brings Uriah home in order that he sleep with his wife. Uriah refuses to have sex. In exasperation David conspires to have Uriah killed in battle. After an appropriate time David and Bathsheba marry. The outcome of all of this (David breaking about half of the Ten Commandments) is that he is confronted by the prophet Nathan who delivers two messages. First the child they conceived will die, and it does. |
Second, the sword, meaning violence, will never leave David’s house. David meekly accepts these punishments. What this incident also does is that it makes David, aware of his own guilt, incapable of dealing with the sins of his children.
We witness this first in the rape of David’s daughter Tamar, by David’s oldest son Amnon. David learns of this incident and does nothing. It is as if he has become impotent as a parent. Tamar’s brother (by the same mother) Absalom, desires revenge and waits for the appropriate time. At a feast Absalom has Amnon murdered. Though David does not banish Absalom, Absalom flees. Once David has finished mourning Amnon he wants to bring Absalom back, but does not know how. Finally Joab, David’s military leader brings about Absalom’s return. This return however, proves to be a hollow triumph because Absalom conspires to turn the hearts of Israel away from David and to himself. The scriptures say that Absalom was the best looking guy around and knew how to court people; to win them over. This Absalom does so in order to take the kingship. Through a series of twists and turns David escapes and Absalom is led to ignore the good advice of immediately going after his father. The final outcome of all of this is that Absalom is killed in battle by Joab, even though David had commanded that he not be killed (again the impotency). 1. How do these stories change your perception of David? 2. How have you seen the sins of parents limit their ability to discipline their children? 3. Why do you suppose that the writer of Chronicles was so interested in maintaining David’s perfect character? |
Week 35 - Read Psalms 3, 4, 12, 13, 26, 28, 29, 32
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: the central theme with most of these Psalms is that of personal deliverance. What these Psalms remind us of is that life, even for the faithful is not always easy. They also raise the question of a direct relationship between faithfulness and deliverance. Psalm 3 – in some ways this Psalm could be seen as a cry of David as he flees his enemies…though there is no direct evidence that this is the setting. However it focuses on the writer being beset by multiple foes that are arising against him. Even so the Psalmist is not afraid. Whether awake or asleep he knows that God will sustain him. Psalm 4 – this Psalm is another looking for personal deliverance. The case here is not so much war or violence but unfair (at least to the Psalmist) accusations. In order to be delivered the writer cries out to God. The writer will also make appropriate sacrifices to God and in so doing find all of the peace that he needs. God will put joy in his heart. Psalm 12 – this cry for help implies that there are no righteous people left. All people lie, boast and proclaim that they are their own masters. The writer asks God to protect him (us) from “this generation.” All around all he can see are the wicked and so needs protection. Psalm 13 – Once again we have a cry for deliverance, yet couched in different terms. This writer feels completely abandoned by God. He cries out for God to answer him and wonders how long God will allow this oppression to last. He wants deliverance to come quickly before his enemies believe they have won. |
Psalm 26 – this Psalm seeking deliverance begins with the proclamation that the writer has always walked in integrity. The claim is that the writer has done all of the right things and none of the wrong ones, thus God ought to deliver him from his enemies. The right things include the temple rituals as well as a willingness to tell others about God’s goodness.
Psalm 28 – here we have a plea for deliverance which begins with a cry to be heard from a position of prayer. It is followed with a request not to be lumped with the wicked as well as a request that the wicked be punished. It closes with praise to God and an affirmation that the writer trusts in God’s deliverance. Psalm 29 – this Psalm breaks the pattern of looking for deliverance. It is instead an ode to the power and majesty of God. God is the God of the storm. In a sense it captures not only God’s power over the weather but over some of the mythological forces of chaos (the flood). In addition, because God sits enthroned on high, God can also bless God’s people. Psalm 32 – this is a good psalm with which to end this section. In it the Psalmist offers words of gratitude for deliverance from sin. The writer is also very clear that any un-confessed sin ate away at him and it was only when he was forthright with God, that God become a hiding place for him where he was protected from trouble. 1. When have you ever cried out for personal deliverance? Has God ever acted? 2. Psalm 29 speaks of God’s power. Where do you see that power? 3. How does Psalm 32 speak to you about the importance of confession? |
Week 36 - Read Psalms 33, 51, 55, 58, 40, 86, 131
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: this group of Psalms contains praise, petition and curse. It shows the breadth of what Psalms can contain. Psalm 33 – this is a Psalm of praise toward God as creator and ruler of all creation. The people of God are to praise God because God not only created the heavens and the earth, but it is God who directs history. The writer wants to make sure that rulers and generals remember that it is God who brings victory and not weapons systems. It concludes with an ode to trust and hope knowing that God is in charge. Psalm 40 - some scholars have speculated that this Psalm is actually two Psalms that have been brought together into a single unit. This speculation is so because the first half of the Psalm is a declaration of praise to God for God’s saving work in the life of the writer. God has brought the Psalmist out of the pit and set his feet on a rock. The writer will tell of the wondrous deeds of God. The second half though is a plea for deliverance. The writer speaks of the evils that have come upon him as well as a request that God not tarry long to deliver. Psalm 51 – this Psalm is used on Ash Wednesday. It is a petition for forgiveness and restoration. It contains some of the best known lines from scripture: have mercy on me O God, according to thy steadfast love; against thee and only thee have I sinned; create in me a clean heart O God, and put a new spirit within me; wash me and I will be whiter than snow. The writer, though ill, seeks not merely physical healing but spiritual healing. |
Psalm 55 – this Psalm is one that is attributed to David. There might be several occasions during his life that would fit its premise; which is that the writer has been betrayed by a friend and is in need of deliverance. One can sense the pain that this betrayal has caused. He writes that he could deal with enemies oppressing him, but a friend’s disloyalty is almost impossible to bear. The writer wants to flee and find a place of refuge. As the Psalm closes the writer reminds himself to cast his burden upon God because God will cast down his enemies.
Psalm 58 – this is a curse upon the writer’s enemies. The language is direct, angry and brutal. He wishes that God would quickly and utterly destroy his enemies. The end result of all of this is that the righteous, meaning the writer, will be rewarded because God will judge rightly. Psalm 86 – once again we find ourselves looking at a Psalm seeking deliverance from enemies. The deliverance is based on the fact that the Psalmist is poor and needy, God is good and forgiving as well as steadfast and faithful. He desires that his enemies be shamed when they see that God has helped him. Psalm 131 – this is one of the shortest Psalms in the scriptures. In it the Psalmist declares that he has done all that he can to humble himself before God. He waits calmly for God to reveal God’s self and will. The bottom line again, is that Israel should hope in the Lord. 1. What do you make of a Psalm that is a curse? Does that seem appropriate? 2. How would you use a Psalm of confession such as Psalm 51? 3. Do you see a direct relationship between faithfulness and God’s blessing? |
Week 37 - Read Psalm 61, 62, 64, 65, 66, 67, 69, 70
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: this group of Psalms contains praise and petition. It is a reminder that many of the Psalms are not uplifting but are cries for help and deliverance. Psalm 61 – this Psalm is filled with poetic images and metaphors. The writer prays from the ends of the earth; desires to be on a rock higher than himself; proclaims God to be a strong tower; and desires to be safe under God’s wings. In addition he prays for the king. If this is a Psalm of David then David is praying for himself in third person, but that is not clear. Finally there is a pledge to fulfill vows made; perhaps making this a pilgrimage Psalm. Psalm 62 – once again we turn to a Psalm that focuses on an individual who is being oppressed by those around him, yet knows that God is his rock and salvation. The writer seems to be in the midst of those who curse him, steal from him and are wish to throw him down. Yet he waits upon the Lord in silence. He also encourages his friends to do the same. An interesting note is that he reflects on the transience of life in that “men of low estate are but a breath, men of high estate are a delusion.” Psalm 64 – this is a Psalm in two parts. The first part has to do with evil doers who make plans to harm others. The language used is very descriptive; “whet their tongues like swords…aim bitter words like arrows…thinking, ‘who can see us?’” The second half of the Psalm is a proclamation of confidence that God will turn the tables. “But God will shoot his arrow at them.” In other words what goes around, comes around and justice will be done. |
Psalm 65 – the writer of this Psalm lays out a progression of images. First God hears prayers and forgives. Next God delivers God’s people and constrains the chaos of creation. Finally, God provides rain, grain and growth. This is probably a Psalm praising God for the harvest.
Psalm 66 – this is probably a Psalm used in temple liturgy. It calls for praise of God, remembers God’s past deeds with Israel, lists the offerings which will be brought into the Temple and concludes with a proclamation of God’s faithfulness. Psalm 67 – this is another Psalm of praise to God for a good harvest. It calls all people and nations to give thanks to God. This Psalm reminds us that in the minds of Israel, God is the universal king and not merely a local deity. Psalm 69 – though this Psalm is attributed to David, chances are that it is from a later time period. Some have associated it with Jeremiah while others have linked it with the rebuilding of the temple after the exile. Regardless it focuses on someone who has zeal for the temple and yet has been abused by his enemies. There is vivid imagery such as, “They gave me poison for food…and vinegar to drink.” The writer desires not only release but that God’s vengeance be poured out on his enemies. Psalm 70 - we conclude this set of readings with one more plea for God’s help and deliverance. It concludes with a plea for God not to tarry. 1. For what do you give God thanks in terms of God’s provision for your life? 2. What moments would you include in a Psalm of praise to God which recounts God’s work in your life? 3. Has your faithfulness ever made you the focus of other’s anger and derision? If so did you cry out to God? |
Week 38 - Read 2 Samuel 19-24; 1 Chronicles 21-25
Key Concepts: The key to watch in these two sections is the different manner in which each approaches the end of David’s reign. 2 Samuel will continue to show us the “earthy” David making some dubious choices while 1 Chronicles shows us David as the all wise and future thinking king.
Stories: The stories in 2 Samuel include David mourning Absalom’s death, Joab’s intervention, David’s reuniting the kingdom, the Sheba revolt, the murder of Amasa, the death of Sheba, a famine and the execution of members of Saul’s family, war against the Philistines, David’s song to God, a listing of David’s mighty men and their exploits, the census and pestilence and David’s purchase of a threshing floor. The stories of 1 Chronicles include Satan inciting David to conduct a census, the resulting pestilence, David’s plans to have Solomon build a temple, David’s reason for not building it, David making Solomon king, the organization of the Levites, priests and musicians. Brief Summary: 2 Samuel offers us a very complex set of stories that witness to David’s continuing decline in terms of his leadership and his ability to make appropriate choices. It begins with David’s mourning the death of his son Absalom. Remember that Absalom had not only conspired against David but had engaged in open rebellion, forced David from the capitol, slept with David’s concubines and tried to have David killed. Yet, when David learns that Absalom is dead he weeps bitterly; meaning he does not weep for the deaths of his own soldiers or give thanks to those who saved him. Had this behavior continued David would have been deserted by all of his mighty men and his army. It is only Joab who saves the day by forcing David to act like a king. |
Upon his return to Jerusalem, David punishes his concubines (though they were not at fault), waits for Joab to pursue the rebel Sheba (rather than asking Joab), allows Joab to get off scot free with the murder of Amasa, who was the titular head of David’s armies, gives up members of Saul’s family to be hanged in order to deal with a famine, and finally has to be asked not to lead his armies because he is too old. At the same time the compilers of these texts insert a psalm in which David declares himself to be blameless before God (22:24) and states that God’s blessings are due to David’s “cleanness” in God’s sight. The upside of the psalm is that David at least recognizes that his success is ultimately due to God and not to David’s own prowess.
1 Chronicles offers us a very different view of David’s declining years. It begins with a clear statement that the census David undertakes is caused by Satan tempting him. In 2 Samuel it is God (2 Samuel 24:1) who, because of Israel’s sins, incites David to take the census. Thus, the writer of 1 Chronicles has not only left out all of the difficult details concerning David’s decline, but has altered the story in order to protect God from asking David to do something that God hates (namely “numbering” the people). What we also encounter in 1 Chronicles is David’s clear-headed thinking about the issues of succession. Solomon is declared to be the king-in-waiting and no mention is made of David’s other, and older, sons. In addition David makes all of the arrangements for the construction and manning of the Temple. This becomes important during the reign of Solomon and his offspring because it gives support to their claims to the throne. 1. Which of the two stories do like the most and why? 2. Why do you suppose the compilers of the scriptures included both sets of stories? 3. How do you see God’s actions in your life as contributing to your success? |
Week 39 - Read Psalm 5, 38, 41, 42, 95, 97, 98, 99
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: This group of Psalms contains pleas and praises to God Psalm 5 – with this Psalm we return again to a lament. In it we see the usual themes of a request for God to hear the writer’s cry for deliverance as well as for the destruction of those who “have no truth in their mouths” and whose “throat is an open grave.” The basis for this request is not only the righteousness of the speaker but God’s own sense of justice. God destroys the wicked and upholds the righteous. Psalm 38 – here we have a Psalm which contains two pleas to God. The first is for healing. The writer has associated his illness, “my wounds grow and fester”, with sin and so seeks forgiveness and healing. At the same time the writer is faced with people around him who are taking advantage of his illness to bring him to ruin. The plea is that God will protect the writer from his enemies even as God is healing him. Psalm 41 – the Psalmist begins with an affirmation of God’s and the writer’s goodness (the writer cares for the poor and God rewards him). Yet the writer is ill and on his sickbed. From the sickbed, just as in Psalm 38, the writer finds himself abandoned by his friends and lied about by his enemies. He seeks deliverance from both conditions. Psalm 42 – this is one of the most famous of the Psalms and begins, “As a hart longs for flowing waters, so my soul longs for thee, O God.” The writer remembers going with the throngs on a procession to the Temple and songs and shouts for joy that accompanied that pilgrimage. The writer also knows of God’s steadfast love. Yet in the end he feels abandoned and yet still desires to trust in God. |
Psalm 95 – we move from Psalms of lament to a Psalm of praise. The writer of this Psalm begins with a proclamation of praise that God is king over all of the earth. God is king over all of the gods. This kingship was demonstrated in God’s lordship over both creation and God’s people. The Psalm concludes with a reminder that the people listen to God and not be like their ancestors who refused to listen.
Psalm 97 – once again in this Psalm we encounter an ode to God’s kingship and glory. There are a couple of very interesting parts to this Psalm. First there is a call for creation itself to give praise to God, “Let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad.” Second it reminds us that the writer still exists in a polytheistic culture because all other gods bow down. Finally there is a quid-pro-quo relationship in which the righteous are always rewarded. Psalm 98 – this Psalm is one of the great Psalms for praise. People are commanded to praise God with song, lyre, trumpets and horn. The people are to make a joyful noise before God. Even the “floods” are to clap their hands. All of this is to take place because God will come and judge the nations and establish God’s kingdom. Psalm 99 – this Psalm allows us to see the connection between God and justice. People are to praise God not simply because God is powerful, but because God is the king who is a “lover of justice” and has “established equity.” Even when God’s leaders such as Moses, Aaron and Samuel did wrong, God acted. 1. How do you understand righteousness in your own life? 2. Where do you see creation giving praise to God? 3. What does justice look like to you? |
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Week 40 – Read 1 Chronicles 26-29; 2 Chronicles 1; 1 Kings 1-4
Key Concepts: This section concerns the transition of the kingship from David to Solomon.
Stories: The 1 Chronicles text continues David’s organization of his kingdom so that there will be a smooth transition for Solomon, David’s transmission of the blueprints for the Temple to his son, and the installation of Solomon along with the retirement and death of David. 2 Chronicles shows Solomon sacrificing at Gibeon, asking for wisdom from God and then receiving it. 1 Kings offers us a very different look at the royal transition. We witness David’s failing health and mental status, his son Adonijah proclaiming himself king, Bathsheba conspiring to get the kingship for her son Solomon, David’s death bed declaration of Solomon as king, the fear and fleeing of David’s other sons, the elimination of all of those who might threaten Solomon’s reign, Solomon’s seeking and receiving wisdom from God, Solomon’s marriage alliance to Pharaoh, demonstrations of Solomon’s wisdom and finally the grandeur of Solomon’s reign. Brief Summary: the contrast between Chronicles and Samuel/Kings is on full display in these two stories. While they each tell the tale of the transition of the kingship they offer us very different views. I would argue that the older, and original view is that taken by 1 Kings. In this story we watch David decline from a once great warrior to a man who cannot keep himself warm or have sex with the young woman who had been brought in to keep him company. The implication is that David is slipping both physically and mentally. He is open to manipulation. This sets the stage for a contest between brothers for the crown. Adonija is the oldest son and has demonstrated loyalty to dad. He assumes that he will be crowned king and begins to take on royal airs. Bathsheba knows what that means for her son Solomon, death. She then conspires with the prophet Nathan, to have David declare Solomon as king. |
What is left open ended in this story is whether or not David had actually promised her that Solomon would be king. Regardless, Bathsheba and Nathan convince David to declare Solomon to be the rightful ruler. This he does. Then in one last act of vengeance David has Solomon promise to kill his enemies. Solomon not only then dispatches his father’s enemies, but he eliminates anyone who might challenge his rule. In these acts we watch the ruthlessness of the new king.
In the Chronicle stories we witness a very different story. In this version there is no messiness at all. In fact, if this were our only story of the transition, we would not even know that Solomon had any brothers or that there had been any succession issues at all. As we have noted before, Chronicles offers us a sanitized version of events. Here, David is in full control of all of his faculties until the very end. He understands that he needs to name a successor and so names Solomon in a very public ceremony. He also raises all of the funds for the new Temple, prepares the blue prints and hands everything over to Solomon. Though Chronicles offers us a rose-colored view, it does not pass over all the problematic issues. We learn that Solomon married an Egyptian princess and he made sacrifices at the high places at which the northern tribes of Israel worshipped. While each of these were political necessities (cementing an alliance with Egypt and with the northern tribes) they were later frowned upon. The one story that links these two strands is Solomon’s desire for, and reception of wisdom. 1. What political purpose could you see as a possible reason for cleaning up the transition between David and Solomon? 2. Does the inter-palace intrigue strike you as odd or out of place in this story? 3. How do you square Solomon’s wisdom with his ruthlessness? |
Week 41 - Read Psalm 31, 71, 72, 94, 111, 118, 119
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: This group of Psalms contains pleas and praises to God Psalm 31 – we begin this set of Psalms with another lament. The language used here is powerfully personal. “My eye wastes away from grief, my soul and body also. For my life is spent with sorrow and my years with sighing.” We can hear the pain of the writer as he struggles with being an outcast and an object of scorn. Nonetheless he refuses to give up on God and continues seeking God’s assistance. Psalm 71 – this is an interesting Psalm because it comes from the pen of an older adult (grey hair) who is no longer able to defend himself and needs God’s help. The claim of the writer is that he has tried to be obedient to God from his youth. He has praised God all of his life. Now, if God will deliver him from his enemies who are taking advantage of his age, he will praise God with song. Psalm 72 – the perfect king is the object of this Psalm of praise. The Psalmist asks that God will bless the king because through the king being blessed the people will be blessed. There is a direct relationship between the two. The king in this Psalm is described as the one who delivers to the needy, the poor and those who have no helpers. The king has pity on the weak and saves the lives of the needy. One important note is that ultimately it is God who will, or will not, make the king successful. Psalm 94 – we return to a lament, but one that is both personal and corporate. It begins with the corporate as it decries those who crush God’s people, slay the widow and the sojourner and murder orphans. In other words their lives are lived in direct opposition to God’s Law. They do this because they do not believe that God will act. It continues with an affirmation that God will not abandon God’s people. The proof of this is that the writer has been lifted up by God in times of trouble. |
Psalm 111 – this is a Psalm of praise. The writer reminds his readers that God is to be praised for God has provided for God’s people, has shown power to the people, is faithful and just, and God’s words are trustworthy, God’s covenant is eternal. It concludes with the great line that “the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom.”
Psalm 118 – this is a Psalm of deliverance in battle brought together with a litany of praise for use in a celebration after victory. It begins with a powerful description of the king being surround by his enemies, (like a swarm of buzzing bees) yet in the cause of God, and with God’s help is able to defeat them. The victory is then followed by songs of victory which give praise to God because victory is all God’s doing. This is followed by the litany of the king and his troops entering the Temple area. This litany, including the halleluiahs, is echoed in the story of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. It also contains the line concerning the stone which the builders rejected that has become the chief cornerstone. Psalm 119 – this is the longest of the Psalms. Its focus is the Law of God…in a sense an ode to the law. It is divided into 8 verse long stanzas. Each stanza begins with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet…running in alphabetical order. The context is a lament and a plea to God based on the author’s obedience to God’s commands. It also affirms the faithfulness of God. 1. For those of you who are a bit older, how does Psalm 71 speak to you, and what does it say to those who are younger? 2. What would a corporate lament look like today? 3. How does the Law of God impact your life, if at all? |
Week 42 - Read Psalm 108, 109, 110, 138, 139, 143, 144, 145
Key Concepts: The key concepts here are that the Psalms are a complex mix of genres which were composed over an extended period of time.
Psalm Themes: This group of Psalms contains pleas and praises to God Psalm 108 – this Psalm is composed of portions from two other Psalms (57 and 60). It is a prayer for God to give victory to God’s people over their enemies. Again it reminds the reader that only God can bring victory. Psalm 109 – this is a Psalm of betrayal in which the writer wants God to wreak vengeance upon his enemies. There are no punches pulled. In the midst of this though, the writer wants to make sure that his enemies know that God, and not the writer, is bringing justice. Psalm 110 – this is a Psalm that is quoted/used at several places in the New Testament. It is an invitation from God to the king to sit at God’s right hand. In addition it links the role of king and priest, which were the roles played by Melchizedek. It also promises victory to the king. Psalm 138 – the Psalmist is in the temple to give praise to God for deliverance. This is perhaps a Psalm of the king who has returned victorious from battle. The writer also recognizes that even though God is high and mighty, God recognizes and cares for the lowly. This is one of the key themes of the Old Testament, that God is not only concerned with the mighty but with the poor and downtrodden. Psalm 139 – this is perhaps one of the greatest of the Psalms and has been used devotionally by countless men and women. It contains lines such as, “Thou know when I sit down and down and when I rise up, thou discern my thoughts from afar. Even before a word is on my tongue, you know it….where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence. If I ascend to heaven you are there. If I make my bed in Sheol you are there….for you did knit me together in my mother’s womb…in your book were written all of the days that were formed for me.” It ends with a plea for God to destroy the writer’s enemies and then to search and know the writer’s heart. |
Psalm 143 – once again we find ourselves with a cry for help. This cry is made in the belief that God can and will act. We know this because the writer speaks not only of God having acted in the past but that God is a loving God who cares for God’s people and for justice. There is an interesting request in the last verse where the Psalmist asks God to cut off all of his enemies out of God’s love for the writer.
Psalm 144 – this Psalm appears to be divided into two portions, meaning that they might have originally been two different Psalms. The first half is focused on a cry for deliverance by a king, a descendant of David. There is thanksgiving that God has trained the king’s hand for war and that God has been a refuge and shield. It concludes with a request for rescue as had been done for David. The second half of the Psalm is a very pastoral prayer requesting an abundant harvest in order that the people be blessed. Psalm 145 – this is one of the most uplifting and positive of the Psalms. It begins with personal praise to God and a declaration that generation upon generation will tell of God’s majesty, mighty works and terrible greatness. The Psalmist then moves toward an affirmation that “The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all and his compassion is over all that he has made.” The Psalm continues with affirmations of God’s care for those who have fallen, who call upon him and cry out to him. 1. What do you make of the combination of priest and king in one person? 2. What comfort do you take in Psalm 139? 3. Where do you see God’s graciousness working itself out in your life? |