Chronicles 8-10
Solomon was very very wise and very very rich. That much is made clear in chapters 8 and 9. We read of an almost utopian society where everything is clad with gold, the king is wealthy, the people are wealthy, but even more importantly God has kept his promise to Solomon. Perhaps these chapters are more about God keeping his promises than the impressiveness of Solomon himself. Remember that it was God who made Solomon in chapter 1. We see another promise kept in chapter 10:15, “for it was a turn of affairs brought about by God that the LORD might fulfill his word, which he spoke by Ahjah the Shilonite to Jeroboam the son of Nebat.” This promise is recorded in 1 Kings 11:29-39. God keeps his promises and yet the people are held responsible for their actions. In chapter 10 we clearly read of Rehoboam, Solomon’s Son, acting unwisely where his father always acted wisely. This unwise action results in the division of the kingdoms, to the north Jeroboam reigns over the northern kingdom Israel, and to the south Rehoboam reigns over Judah. We read in these chapters both mankind being held responsible for their sin, and at the same time God’s sovereign plan unfolding. Reflect: Do you find it difficult to hold together God’s sovereign plan and the responsibility of mankind for their sin? If God is good, why would he allow the division of his kingdom? What is his purpose? As you consider Christ who was broken so that we might be healed, how might the Gospel story inform why in God’s sovereign plan he allows the kingdom’s to divide? What is it about being broken and restored that it so important? What does this look like in your life? Connect- 1 Kings 11: 29 And at that time, when Jeroboam went out of Jerusalem, the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite found him on the road. Now Ahijah had dressed himself in a new garment, and the two of them were alone in the open country. 30 Then Ahijah laid hold of the new garment that was on him, and tore it into twelve pieces. 31 And he said to Jeroboam, “Take for yourself ten pieces, for thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘Behold, I am about to tear the kingdom from the hand of Solomon and will give you ten tribes 32 (but he shall have one tribe, for the sake of my servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, the city that I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel), 33 because they have[a] forsaken me and worshiped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, Chemosh the god of Moab, and Milcom the god of the Ammonites, and they have not walked in my ways, doing what is right in my sight and keeping my statutes and my rules, as David his father did. 34 Nevertheless, I will not take the whole kingdom out of his hand, but I will make him ruler all the days of his life, for the sake of David my servant whom I chose, who kept my commandments and my statutes. 35 But I will take the kingdom out of his son's hand and will give it to you, ten tribes. 36 Yet to his son I will give one tribe, that David my servant may always have a lamp before me in Jerusalem, the city where I have chosen to put my name. 37 And I will take you, and you shall reign over all that your soul desires, and you shall be king over Israel. 38 And if you will listen to all that I command you, and will walk in my ways, and do what is right in my eyes by keeping my statutes and my commandments, as David my servant did, I will be with you and will build you a sure house, as I built for David, and I will give Israel to you. 39 And I will afflict the offspring of David because of this, but not forever.’” - Rev. Joseph Bianco II Chronicles 5-7
Picture this glorious moment, the moment that the glory of the Lord fills the temple. This was a marvelous sign to the people of Israel, that God is with them. God is with his people. The confidence, the security, the hopefulness, the mercy that this would invoke for Israel is hard to comprehend. Perhaps you’ve heard a joke at a Steelers game about whose side God is on, but imagine if God were really on your side. How might this change your life? How might this change your way of thinking? In II Chronicles 6:18 we hear Solomon say, “But will God indeed dwell with man on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you, how much less this house that I have built!” Solomon got it, the magnitude of what was happening, but do we understand this today? Do we comprehend that that same glory that dwelt in the temple dwells in the temple of the body of Christ, his church? That same Spirit of fire landed on the disciples in Acts 2, and continues to carry his people throughout the ages. How much more. How much more does God dwell with his people now? How much more ought our union with Jesus affect our lives today? And yet, Solomon knows this people will sin. In chapter 7, we read several intercessions, giving God’s people assurance that if they pray, God will forgive them. There is a verse that is repeated twice in these chapters, “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” Remaining faithful to God is believing that God is good, and that his steadfast love endures forever. We will be like those who abandon the Lord when we begin to doubt his goodness, his steadfastness. Pestilence, plague, difficulty, and sin will come, but our God will remain forever. Reflect: Do you believe that you are closer today to the Lord than the Israelites? Do you believe that we have a degree of intimacy with God through Christ that king Solomon couldn’t imagine? If you believe this, how does it change the way you live? How does it change the way you work, love your spouse, or engage in society? Take some time in prayer to both confess your shortcomings and to give thanks that you have a God who is good, whose steadfast love endures forever. Connect- In Acts 2 we read about another time that God comes to dwell with his people. That day he gave to them his very Spirit, which continues to dwell in his people today. This Holy Spirit ought to guide every aspect of the Christians life. Acts 2:1-4 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place.2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested[a] on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. -Rev Joseph Bianco II Chronicles 1-4
II Chronicles begins in the middle of a story, the story of God’s covenant faithfulness with David, continuing on with his son Solomon. What is unique about this story is the way we are introduced to Solomon. God says to Solomon, “Ask what I shall give you.” What a question! It truly feels like a genie-in-a-bottle moment, but God is no mere giver of wishes; he is after the heart. We read that God was after Solomon’s heart, and finds that Solomon’s desires for Israel and God’s desires are one in the same. Therefore, God gives Solomon his desire granting him great knowledge and wisdom. Solomon then uses this knowledge and wisdom to begin God’s purposes, namely starting the building process of this great “house.” It’s noteworthy that Solomon mentions that no house or temple could hold God, that the temple serves as a place to worship God and to offer sacrifices. As David did, so Solomon continues to build a good relationship with a neighboring king, Hiram king of Tyre. Hiram was a gentile king who didn’t know the Lord, yet because of his relationship with Solomon was able to say, “Blessed be the LORD God of Israel.” Consider this for a moment, that one world power was more positively disposed to God because of the work of Solomon. Consider how this might influence how others in Tyre think about God and Israel. Hiram sends great craftsmen to begin the build, and the construction and consequently explanation of this great temple is laid out before us. Reflect- There are two main ideas worth reflecting on in these first chapters. First is this: Were God to ask you the same question he asked Solomon, “Ask what I shall give you.” - what would you say? A Christian’s life is primarily not about health and wealth, which God makes very clear in commending Solomon’s answer. A Christian’s life is about whatever God is about, mainly redemption. How might your answer contrast with Solomon’s? Why is that? Second, God uses neighboring gentiles in helping to establish the most important religious structure of an ancient Israel’s life, namely the temple. How might you today be predisposed to look inwardly, isolating yourself from secular people? What might this Jewish-Gentile collaboration look like today? Connect- The establishing of the temple is a fulfillment of God’s promise to David in 1 Chronicles 17:12 – In this promise, this covenant, we look to Christ. I Chronicles 17:12 “He shall build a house for me, and I will establish his throne forever.” - Rev. Joseph Bianco 2 Samuel 22 - 24
The last chapters of the books of Samuel serve as an epilogue to the great saga of David. Not all of the contents in these chapters happen in chronological order with the rest of the book, but they are meant to reiterate the grace found, not in man, but in the everlasting covenant from God (2 Sam. 7). David’s psalm in chapter 22 is the same of another in the psalter (Psalm 18). The last verses reference the Davidic covenant and the last lines of Hannah’s prayer/song (1 Sam. 2:10). This along with the last words recorded of David (23:1-7) highlight the magnificent grace of God that is the refuge and strength for sinners. The last narrative found in these books foreshadow a key theme to be fully consummated in the prophesied future king. David sins against God again by administering a census, and thus showing his trust in numbers than in the LORD (24:10). As a result, there is judgment upon all of Israel for David’s distrust in the form of a massive epidemic (24:15). As a means for atoning for his sins and lifting this consequence from the people (24:17), David purchases a threshing floor from a Jebusite to build an altar for the LORD. What was primarily used for agricultural means now served metaphorical significance for appeasing judgment (see here for more on biblical uses of a threshing floor). This proves significant for two reasons: 1) The site of this threshing floor would be the very plot of land that Solomon would build the Temple of the LORD (21:18-22:1); and, 2) David’s desire as the federal head of Israel to lift the burden of sin from his people would preview the very same inclination of his future royal offspring. But Jesus was not needing to lift the burden of his sin- he was without sin (2 Cor. 5:21)- but was interceding on our behalf to pay the penalty of our own sin. Unlike with David, we do not receive God’s wrath as a result of his mistakes. Instead, as our new federal head, Jesus now imputes the fullness of his righteousness to us. We see the very in-breaking of the Gospel here in the close of these books. Reflect & Connect There was so much that was promising about David to serve as the king of the LORD’s people. But David proved to be a sinner, as did Saul and as would every other king after him. So as a contemporary of this monarchy, it would have been difficult to see hope in the promise of the covenant made with David. Would there really be a king upright and worthy of carrying out God’s will perfectly? We have the blessing of hindsight and standing on this side of salvation to know the answer to that question. Read through the genealogy of the gospel of Matthew that follows this bloodline from Abraham to Jesus. As you do, recall all the narratives that we’ve read through thus far and reflect on God’s grace shown at every turn of this story. In spite of sin, God inclines to show us grace time and time again. Matthew 1:1-17 - Rev. Nameun Cho 2 Samuel 16 - 19
It is tempting to read these lengthy chapters as an amalgamation of various and somewhat unrelated episodes during David’s fleeing from Absalom. But the greater underlying purpose for these stories is to show a progression of David’s restoration as king. While it may seem that David’s kingship is in jeopardy, we are assured throughout this narrative that God is in control and working things for David’s good. Throughout the entire account of Absalom’s attempted coup, never once is he labeled or referred to as “the king” (I would argue that Hushai’s proclamation in 16:16 is masking his true allegiance to David). In fact, every time “the king” is mentioned in these chapters, it is in reference to David. As we glance at these various episodes, let’s briefly explore how each serves the purpose of David’s restoration:
Reflect God’s forgiveness and restoration of David was a long and harrowing road. Rather than a blanket, “cheap” grace administered, the LORD had David endure through all of these incidents as a way of sanctifying him. David’s sins were callousing the very heart that was after the LORD’s own. There are very real and grave consequences to sin and expelling God from our lives. Rather than banking on the depth of God’s grace to forgive even the most heinous of acts (Rom. 6:1-2), God shows the detrimental repercussions of self-love throughout the entire narrative of David’s second fleeing. As one scholar comments on this narrative, “Sin is never trivial, and grace is never cheap.” What are the patterns of sin in your own life? How do those patterns give way to damaging effects throughout the other parts of your life? Reflect on the grace of Christ that not only covers those sins, but restores us from its depths to wear his righteousness. Connect In the midst of David fleeing from Absalom, God provides a table and feast for David in the wilderness (17:27-29). Consider the added depth this context gives to Psalm 23:5. Psalm 23 1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. - Rev. Nameun Cho 2 Samuel 13 - 15
While David’s great sin was forgiven and his life spared, we begin to see the repercussions of his actions as prophesied by Nathan. This next chunk of narrative describes how there would be evil raised up against David from within his own house (12:11). And throughout the course of these events, there are very notable parallels with that of David’s sins as well. The assault on Tamar by her half-brother and heir apparent to the throne, Amnon (13:1-19), likens to David’s lust and adultery towards Bathsheba. Absalom plots against Amnon to avenge Tamar for the ways she was disgraced, and eventually murders his half-brother (13:20-33). The layered and premeditated nature of this murder parallels with that of David’s on Uriah. After Absalom flees, Joab seeks to have David pardon his son so that he could return. Joab does this by orchestrating a widow to visit with the king to receive a favorable judgment for her situation- a situation that more played the part of a parable to help reveal David’s true intentions (14:1-20). This parable that convicted David was not unlike the one told by Nathan. Upon his return to Jerusalem, Absalom plots to conspire against David to seek the throne for himself (15:1-12). David is then forced to be on the run again, this time not by Saul, but by his own children. All in all, the footprints throughout this section of the story that harken back to David’s original iniquities goes to show that sin has very real and immediate consequences. David’s actions had a direct result on his family, so much so that we see them repeating his mistakes. The mentioning of David in the background and not the fore, and indirectly referenced as “the king” rather than by name goes to show his diminished influence towards his children in this part of the story. In many ways, the integrity and commitment to justice David so strongly conveyed in the beginning parts of these books have been compromised. There are many turns in the story during these few chapters that are missing David’s intervention. The author makes it clear of how his sin has changed his resolve as king. So now, the latter part of David’s reign as king is in jeopardy. Reflect & Connect Psalm 3 was written during the experience of David fleeing from Absalom. While there may have been a change in David’s own ability to uphold a righteous standard as king, his reflections in this psalm show his continued dependence on God. David’s faith in the LORD and the promises of His covenant underly all of life’s circumstances, even when they are bleak and even oppressive. Read over this psalm in light of the many difficult circumstances we face today. How does the reality of God’s sovereignty encourage you to have faith in the things unseen in the face of such discouraging situations? 1 O Lord, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me; 2 many are saying of my soul, “There is no salvation for him in God.” Selah 3 But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head. 4 I cried aloud to the Lord, and he answered me from his holy hill. Selah 5 I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the Lord sustained me. 6 I will not be afraid of many thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around. 7 Arise, O Lord! Save me, O my God! For you strike all my enemies on the cheek; you break the teeth of the wicked. 8 Salvation belongs to the Lord; your blessing be on your people! Selah - Psalm 3 - Rev. Nameun Cho 2 Samuel 11 - 12
When all was seemingly going well for Israel’s anointed king, we arrive at the point in David’s narrative that seems to define his legacy more than any other episode in his life: his great adultery. The entire account of David’s sin is wrought with irony that explores the depth of human depravity. In a time where David was supposed to be on the battlefield with his men against the Ammonites, he remains behind in Jerusalem (11:1). To this point, the author has built up David’s integrity and honor as requisites to the throne, only to have them crumble at the sight of a bathing woman (11:2). Instead of confessing his sin and owning up to his disgrace, David seeks to cover up his misdeeds. David’s ploys to “legitimatize” Bathsheba’s conception fails because of Uriah’s unwavering morality toward the Jewish conduct during wartime (11:11). David, the anointed shepherd-king of God’s covenant people, was supposed to be demonstrating the very resolve upheld by Uriah, the Hittite and foreign-born, servant mercenary. Unable to break Uriah’s loyalty, David then has him carry the very message sentencing him to his death in battle (11:14-15). Unphased by his adultery-fueled murder, David encourages his army commander, Joab, to not let this matter displease him (11:25). David fails to see the gravity of his own actions and how they were displeasing, not only to Joab, but to the LORD (11:27). One after the other, David falls down a slippery slope of committing transgression after transgression. Beginning with his coveting, then to adultery, and finally to eventual murder, David’s heinous breaches of God’s law cries for the death sentence to satisfy his bloodguilt. But God intervenes yet again through the prophet Nathan How starkly different would Nathan’s tone have been towards David this time compared to his last prophecy speaking of the everlasting throne. We see irony again as David knows exactly to how respond to the parable of the unjust rich man (12:5-6). David has an immense discernment for justice when it isn’t clouded by his passion. Unlike David’s encounter with Nabal (1 Sam. 25), there was no Abigail-like figure to quelch the temptation of his carnal desires. All of this goes to show the brokenness of mankind rooted in sin. The Israelite cries and demands for a man-king in 1 Sam. 8 prove all the more short-sighted when even David falls short of perfection. Reflect The adultery committed with Bathsheba doesn’t define David by the depth of his sin, but by the grace that was shown to him in spite of it. After Nathan utters the words “You are the man!” (12:7), David’s heart is cut to conviction and repentance (Psalm 51). Without any qualification or explanation, we simply read “’The LORD also has put away your sin; you shall not die…’” Not only does God spare David’s life, but the grace found in the promise of the everlasting throne still remains. The offspring of David to continue the legacy of this prophecy, Solomon, comes from none other than Bathsheba. The sole reason that there is access to fellowship with God from the depths of evil is simply because God allows for it. Connect Following David’s pardon, we read of his reflections on the forgiveness of his sins in Psalm 32. 1 Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2 Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit. 3 For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. 4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah 5 I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah 6 Therefore let everyone who is godly offer prayer to you at a time when you may be found; surely in the rush of great waters, they shall not reach him. 7 You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance. Selah 8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. 9 Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you. 10 Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord. 11 Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart! - Rev. Nameun Cho 2 Samuel 6 - 7
David further demonstrates that the kingship of Israel is more than a matter of earthly rule, but of a spiritual one primarily. In chapter 6, we are reminded of the immense holiness attributed to the presence of God. Even the very well-intentioned act of preventing the Ark of the Covenant from falling and touching it resulted in death for Uzzah (6:7). Misinterpreting David’s genuine worship to the Lord as lewd, deplorable acts instead resulted in barrenness for Michal (6:23). All of this was in efforts to return the Ark to Jerusalem, thereby acknowledging the importance of the presence of God when leading His covenant people. Unlike other earthly kingdoms, holiness comes with the territory as a requirement for this kingdom. In what starts off as an admirable sentiment by David to build the LORD a house, what results is one of the most important covenants that ratifies the history and path to man’s salvation. Instead of building God an earthly house, the LORD promises to build a house for David that will rule the kingdom forever. A descendent of David would always be sitting on the throne regardless of the time period. Here we see God’s grace furthered to the people of Israel by prophesying not only everlasting blessing as with the Abrahamic covenant, but an everlasting monarchy. While it may have been both exhilarating and elusive for David to consider the practical implications of this, we as readers on this side of history know exactly what this covenant implies and who it ultimately speaks of. Who better to be king for all eternity than God himself? It is because of this very promise that both the gospels of Matthew and Luke begin their accounts with a genealogy of Jesus that links his ancestry to David. The author reinforces the reality that the dominion over God’s people is about more than merely order and earthly standards. To be a righteous king was a spiritual matter that required him to be set apart, and this covenant guarantees just that. Reflect David’s response to God’s covenant is one of great thanksgiving and humility. As you read over his prayer in vv. 18-29, call to mind the many displays of God’s power and faithfulness in your own life. How have we seen God’s promises fulfilled as a result of His grace conveyed to us through these covenants? What do we have to be thankful for by seeing Jesus sit on the throne of grace? Connect 1 I will sing of the steadfast love of the Lord, forever; with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations. 2 For I said, “Steadfast love will be built up forever; in the heavens you will establish your faithfulness.” 3 You have said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one; I have sworn to David my servant: 4 ‘I will establish your offspring forever, and build your throne for all generations.’” Selah 5 Let the heavens praise your wonders, O Lord, your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones! 6 For who in the skies can be compared to the Lord? Who among the heavenly beings is like the Lord, 7 a God greatly to be feared in the council of the holy ones, and awesome above all who are around him? 8 O Lord God of hosts, who is mighty as you are, O Lord, with your faithfulness all around you? - Psalm 89:1-8 - Rev. Nameun Cho 2 Samuel 3 - 5
The beginning of chapter 3 aptly summarizes this section in the narrative by saying “David grew stronger and stronger, while the house of Saul became weaker and weaker” (3:1). Having established his reign over Judah in the capital city of Hebron, we begin to see David’s kingship and influence extend up towards the northern kingdom (“the house of Saul”). The two greatest threats to David in northern Israel would have been Saul’s son, Ish-bosheth, and the general of Saul’s army, Abner. Both of these figures are killed in these chapters, further neutralizing any threat to David’s claim to the throne. However, the author emphasizes David’s innocence in both of these deaths as they were not lives that he had wished to claim. While it made secular sense to rid yourself of threats, David valued the lives of both Abner and Ish-bosheth and disregarded any accepted monarchical custom to kill them. To the one who murdered Abner- David’s own general, Joab- David curses him and his household (3:29). And to the assassins of Ish-bosheth, much like the lying Amalekite messenger in chapter 1, David repays them with what was expected to be a reward with their own execution instead (4:9-12). David’s integrity and honor are maintained as he takes the throne to unite all of Israel. Even after he is anointed king of both the northern and southern kingdoms, we see David’s inclination to depend on the Lord become habit (5:19,23). Reflect Much has happened from the time of David’s private anointing as a young boy (1 Sam. 16:12-13) to now this public anointing as king over all Israel. This long-awaited realization through many trials and tribulations served the purpose of preparing David for his role as king. But as he takes this mantle, a core part of David’s identity as king harkens back to a role he served as a young boy those many years ago at the private ceremony with Samuel: a shepherd. The Lord anoints David as king and commissions him to be a “shepherd of my people” (5:2). Rather than rule with an authoritarian fist, he is instead encouraged to liken the image of a tender caretaker. Connect This prophecy from Micah speaks of a ruler to be born from Bethlehem that would also lead in all majesty of the LORD, but he would do so by shepherding. This is the passage cited in the gospel of Matthew during the Wise Men’s visit to the infant Jesus (Matt. 2:6). In what ways does Christ’s identity as a shepherd-king encourage you today? How does our perspective of his dominion over us change when it is viewed through the lens of a shepherd tending to his beloved sheep? 2 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. 3 Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of his brothers shall return to the people of Israel. 4 And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth. 5 And he shall be their peace. - Micah 5:2-5 - Rev. Nameun Cho 1 Samuel 31 - 2 Samuel 2
For having suffered so much at the hands of Saul, many would have expected David to convey joy or, at the very least, relief upon hearing of Saul’s death. But we know from his mourning and his dealing with the Amalekite messenger that this was not the case. As would any secular bystander, the messenger expects the news of the incumbent king’s death to be welcomed by David. The Amalekite even implicates himself to having ended Saul’s life directly (even though the readers clearly know that he fell on his own sword) in hopes to receive a reward for his actions. But David’s heart grieves for Saul’s death and again values the life of the Lord’s anointed. What he thought would lead to great gain, the messenger’s selfish lies lead to his own execution. David’s homage to Saul and Jonathan in his lament is a beautiful expression of his creative gifts and camaraderie with the deceased. Rather than dwell on the wrongdoing of Saul to seek his life, David chooses to publicly commemorate him in an honorable light. And David’s affections for Jonathan were no surprise. His lament portrays the delicate balance Jonathan was able to achieve between his familial loyalty and kindred friendship. There are very few instances in history where such words could be expressed about whom the rest of the world would consider your enemies. Following his lament and a long and treacherous road to fulfill God’s promise, Saul’s reign officially comes to an end and David’s reign begins. Reflect As David begins to make his strategic advances as the new king, his first recorded order of business is to inquire of the LORD (2:1). This is a significant thing to note because it shows an area of humility in David’s leadership that Saul severely lacked. While it may have made all logical and military sense to move into Hebron- the holy burial site of Israel’s patriarchs- David confirms this with a blessing from the Lord. Already we see a dependence on God and acknowledgement of the LORD as true king over Israel that proves His anointing of David was justified. Let this type of humility guide us in our own need for God’s guidance in our lives. Connect 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. 7 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. 8 It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Proverbs 3:5-8 - Rev. Nameun Cho 1 Samuel 24 - 26
During the course of David fleeing from Saul and for his life, you can imagine the angst he would have felt in knowing he was always in danger. So when an opportunity presents itself to oust Saul, you can further empathize with David’s temptation to finally free himself from this dread. However, not only once, but twice David spares Saul’s life when he was clearly handed the chances to kill Saul (Ch. 24 & 26). Sandwiched in between these two opportunities is another display of David’s mercy towards Nabal, at the behest of his wife Abigail. In all three of these instances, David displays mercy towards those who rightfully deserved judgment and wrath. He is able to value Saul’s life- despite that fact that Saul had been on a murderous rampage for his own- on the account that he still considered Saul to be “the Lord’s anointed” (24:6,10; 26:9,11). Unlike Saul, David is able to prioritize the sanctity of life and God’s anointed over and above his own interests. In seeing what also happened to Nabal, David learns that justice does not always need to be carried out by his own hands. David’s continuous propensity to be merciful in these three accounts further prepare him for the throne. This would be David and Saul’s last direct interaction before Saul’s ultimate demise. Reflect & Connect Throughout the narrative in 1 Samuel 24, there is a recurring imagery of “cutting off.” David cuts off a corner of Saul’s robe as a visible sign of his mercy (24:11). Then, Saul requests that David would not cut off or kill his offspring once David took the throne- a customary practice that would take place in the changing of hands of authority. Much of this imagery may also draw from those who are cut off from the covenant community without the sign of circumcision (Gen. 14:17). To be cut off was a significant consequence in the Israelite context. Reflect on the passage below from Ephesians, and meditate on the immensity of God’s grace through Jesus that prevented us from being cut off from God. How has God shown us mercy despite our sin? Consider the magnitude of Christ’s sacrifice for us that we might go from being aliens to family members. Ephesians 2:11-22 - Rev. Nameun Cho 1 Samuel 19 - 21
Saul’s anger and jealousy towards David reaches its peak in this portion of the narrative, so much so that it pits him against his own children. In her attempt to cover for David’s escape, Michal prioritizes her husband over her father (19:11-17). Jonathan’s naivete deters him from seeing his father’s anger at first. But Jonathan learns of Saul’s true intentions during David’s absence at the New Moon feast. Enraged that Jonathan had excused David from being at the festival, Saul curses and throws a spear at his own son (20:30,33; much like he did towards David in 19:10). Saul’s anger has blinded him so much that anyone associated with David deemed worthy of incurring the same judgment. David and Jonathan’s love for one another is reaffirmed through this section. Their friendship goes to serve as the stark antithesis to Saul’s anger, almost as if to depict how Saul should have treated God’s anointed instead. In their warnings to each other (20:8,14) and their bitter farewell (20:41-42), the concept of God’s loving kindness (See explication of Hesed from Day 37) is referenced and embodied. David is now forced to be a fugitive, but God is still in control. Much like how the harmful spirit that stirred Saul’s anger was God-ordained (18:10; 19:9), so this temporary exile will serve a purpose for David towards his eventual throne. Reflect & Connect In an attempt to flee from Saul’s murderous decree, David braves an escape even into enemy Philistine territory of Gath in chapter 21. But even across enemy lines, David is recognized and almost revered (21:11). David fears that with his identity revealed he is in grave danger still. Feigning insanity, David narrowly escapes yet another close call for his life. Much of his life experience during this fleeing inspired the words from Psalm 34. Read over this psalm and meditate on David’s experiences. While being immersed in the fragility of his circumstances, let the words of hope and trust in God’s sovereignty lift you through whatever difficult trials you may experience or are even experiencing today. Psalm 34 - Rev. Nameun Cho 1 Samuel 16 - 18
As a natural flow of narrative following the disqualification of Saul, God then points Samuel in the direction of the new soon-to-be king of Israel. Saul himself demonstrates the reality that outward appearance, external circumstances, or even good intentions are not what God requires of a good king. Samuel is tasked to find a man after the Lord's own heart. In his visit to Jesse’s family, the least expected candidate is chosen to be anointed (note: David isn’t even in the house when Samuel is discerning God’s chosen, as Jesse assumed that surely it was not his youngest son). While a comment is made on his physical appearance, David is anointed simply because the LORD chose him (16:12). From that moment forward, the Spirit of the Lord rushes upon David to equip him for God’s work. The well-known story between David and Goliath further demonstrates the power of obedient faith and God's favor. When challenged by Goliath and the Philistines, it is Saul who is obligated to serve as the nation’s champion. Instead, he cowers and is greatly dismayed (17:11). Saul continues to show his lack of faith by being swayed by daunting appearances and circumstances. When David inquires of the challenge, only courage and faith are exuded from his words and actions. For David, Goliath’s challenge was not a matter of military strategy or even physical strength, but of a spiritual nature. Three times David refers to Goliath’s threat not as a challenge towards his people, but to the living God (v. 26, 36, 45). And when considering a threat to the covenant God of Israel, David has full assurance that victory is on his side. Following Goliath’s defeat, David grows stronger in his victory and influence as a leader in Israel. So much so that Saul grows jealous and angry towards David’s success. Despite numerous attempts to thwart David’s upward trajectory, Saul is faced with the inevitable judgment that his reign is coming to a close. This theme of juxtaposing diligent faith with wavering disbelief since the beginning of the book will continue on through its close- Hannah and Eli, Samuel and Eli, Jonathan and Saul, and now David and Saul. Reflect On the precipice of his father’s extreme jealousy, the author of 1 Samuel begins chapter 18 with a beautiful display of covenantal love. Jonathan and David’s friendship is described as souls being knit together, loving the other as his own soul, and a stripping of one’s possessions and status in service to the other. With his seat on the throne threatened, Jonathan had all the reason and more that Saul did to be jealous of David. Instead, we see a counter intuitive movement of grace and sacrifice towards David that epitomizes the definition of friendship. In what ways do we see Christ’s love for us as this kind of movement? How is the Lord convicting you today to convey that love onto others? Connect 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:4-7 - Rev. Nameun Cho 1 Samuel 13 - 15
After Saul is anointed king, there seemed to be a promising start to his authority as we read that “God gave him another heart” (9:9). But these chapters highlight Saul’s spiritual descent that made him unfit to be king over Israel. While the pretenses of his rise to power was so that Israel could be like “all the nations,” the LORD affirms that the leader of the covenant community must be held at a higher standard. Had the requirement to be Israel’s king solely rested on military prowess and success, there might not have been any problems with Saul on the throne. But there came a spiritual requisite of obeying God’s commands and not defiling His practices that Saul failed to comprehend. In Chapter 13, Saul took it upon himself to make sacrifices- a practice strictly reserved for priests- when Samuel did not arrive by the appointed time. In Chapter 15, Saul disregarded the entirety of God’s commands to wipe out the Amalekites (15:3), and instead reserved a portion of the spoils as a result of pressure from others (15:21,24). As a result of these two incidents, the Lord rejects Saul (15:26) and Saul no longer has God’s favor while on the throne. Sandwiched between these two chapters is an episode of Jonathan’s unlikely victory against the Philistines. Jonathan’s trust in the Lord is the centerpiece of this narrative and starkly contrasts with yet another example of Saul’s overwhelming concerns about external circumstances. Not only does this narrative emphasize Saul’s disobedience in the preceding and following chapters, it foreshadows the need for a king that would be after God’s own heart. Reflect & Connect For all intents and purposes for Saul, he believed he acted with good and reasonable intention in both accounts that ultimately disbarred him from the throne. In fact, many of us may have acted in a similar fashion if put in the same situations. But what Saul failed to understand was that God’s favor is not merited by mere outward ritual practices. Saul didn’t disobey just some parts of God’s law and keep others. But by showing that he was more swayed by circumstances and others’ opinions, his distrust in God was the slippery slope towards his sin and rejection. 6 “With what shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? 7 Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?” 8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:6-8 Rev. Nameun Cho 1 Samuel 7:3-10:27
We see a period of reform and flourishing in Israel upon the return of the Ark as Samuel serves as yet another judge over the nation (7:3-17). But we know Samuel to be the last Judge because here is where there is a significant shift in Israel’s leadership history when they demand for a king and monarchy thereafter. For whatever reason(s) the Israelites so strongly desire a king [e.g. military security, to be like all the other nations (c.f. 8:5,20)], they fail to see the irony in asking God for one. In articulating the need for “a king over us…that [he] may judge us and go out before us and fight our battles,” the Israelites were too blind to see that they already had a God-king amongst them doing just that! Having the Ark and God’s very presence with them was not enough, and so they demand Samuel for a fabricated sense of security in a man-king. Despite Samuel’s reluctance and God’s warning of an earthly monarchy, the Jews are given what they so desperately covet. Chapters 9 through 10 introduce the person of Saul who will inaugurate kingship in Israel. There is not much that we know about Saul that uniquely qualifies him as king over others aside from the fact he was very handsome and was taller than everyone else (9:2; 10:23). But the reality to highlight here is God’s favor upon Saul to bring him from the mundane to royalty. Having come from the “least of the tribes of Israel” (9:21), God raises Saul from obscurity, and through a rather ordinary series of events, lays the crown to Israel right on his lap. The narrative further demonstrates the sovereignty of God and the need that we have as human beings to depend on Him. Reflect and Connect While in hindsight we can label the convictions of the Israelites for a king as stubborn and short-sighted, we would be guilty of hypocrisy. What are ways in which we usurp God as king over our own lives? Is there an area that you have difficulty fully trusting God and find yourself wrestling control away from Him? Meditate on Isaiah 9:6-7 and the very identity of the king Jesus claims to be. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. Isaiah 9:6-7 - Rev. Nameun Cho 1 Samuel 4:1-7:2
The significance of the Ark of the Covenant goes without question when considering Israelite history. Known to be the visible sign of the presence of God, the Ark was taken into battle as a reminder for the Jews to say, “God is with us!” However, one thing that the Ark was not was a mere token of accomplishing what man wanted done. After suffering a loss on the battlefield against the Philistines, the Israelites think that simply bringing the Ark would help them succeed in areas that they failed. But the Lord allows for a second defeat to the Philistines the next day and the Ark is captured. As a way of fulfilling God’s judgment on Eli and his sons, we read of their demise during and following the battle. The rest of the narrative interestingly does not account for Samuel or any other Israelite for that matter. Instead, the story narrates the Philistine perspective of housing the Ark in their country. The Philistines showed some acknowledgement and fear of the covenant God of Israel and even recalling to mind the plagues in Egypt (4:8). For the duration of the seven months that the Ark is with the Philistines, it does nothing but bring plague and tumors to those who come near it. The Philistines then shuttle the Ark from city to city hoping to rid themselves of the unwanted side effects of this spoil of war. The final resolution is to return the Ark back to Israel along with guilt sacrifices as a way of acknowledging their defilement of such a consecrated artifact. Reflect While it is quite remarkable to see the various means to which the Philistines approached the Ark, one thing is made certain: it did not belong there. As a way of being sentenced to their demise, the Ark is lost while in the spiritual care of Hophni and Phinehas (4:4). But the presence of God always belonged to the very people he established His covenant with. What Jesus does in his salvific work is invite us into that covenant community, the very community that communes with the presence of the living God. Connect 4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ… 9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 1 Peter 2:4, 5, 9, 10 - Rev. Nameun Cho 1 Samuel 1-3
As we close out the period of the judges in Israelite history, we are introduced to Israel’s last judge, Samuel. These first three chapters highlight the birth narrative of Samuel along with his call to serve the Lord. The common theme that runs through these opening chapters is the effect of displaying a life faithful to God. In Hannah’s barrenness, she turns to the Lord in desperation. Here, she displays the utmost faith by being willing to give up the very thing she is asking for: a child. Hannah's prayer in the beginning of chapter 2 is a beautiful expression of both gratitude and humility, and is often compared with Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55). The birth and growth of Samuel is strategically juxtaposed with the decline of Eli’s house. While one household devotes its life in service to the Lord, the other descends to its demise with its continued unfaithfulness. Notice here that the pronouncement of judgment is not just towards Eli’s sons, but to Eli as well. Hophni and Phinehas’ priestly blasphemy is just as heinous as Eli’s failure in disciplining his sons. While Eli is tasked with fostering Samuel, we see Samuel’s strong faith in spite of Eli’s track record. God works His grace supernaturally within Samuel to equip him for his future ministry as both judge and prophet. These testimonies of (un)faith will foreshadow the trajectories of Israel's soon-to-be-kings, Saul and David. Reflect and Connect What are the areas in our life that are difficult to give to God in faith? Close out your time by re-reading aloud both Hannah’s prayer (2:1-10) and Mary’s Magnificat as your own prayers. Allow these words to tend to you and be the desires of your own heart. 46 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; 52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever.” Luke 1:46-55 - Rev. Nameun Cho Jim Partridge, elder
Yesterday we considered the major biblical theme of “hesed”, or love based on commitment and sacrifice, as it is displayed in the book of Ruth (and also in many other classic OT texts like Ex.34:6-7, Deut.7:9, Pss.63:3, 89,103:8 and Isaiah 54:7-8). Today we consider a second theme that is closely linked, that of “redemption”. Boaz, who first enters the story subtly in 2:3, is later identified by Naomi in 2:20b as “…a close relative of ours, one of our redeemers.” In the economy of ancient Israel, a “go’el” (Hebrew noun meaning “redeemer”) had the power to act on behalf of the “redeemed” in a way that could affect great good in their lives. In the case of Naomi, she had literally lost everything in the death of her husband and two sons in Moab, and was in a very vulnerable place upon her return to Bethlehem. Though her daughter-in-law Ruth had joined with her in committed “hesed” love, Ruth’s own social status as a female foreign widow was extremely low; this reality requires Naomi to act in great faith and her own version of hesed love. She concocts a daring plan in chapter 3 to secure Boaz as a husband for Ruth. In the providence of God (not good fortune or luck), the plan works out in chapters 3-4 in such a way that Naomi, the community and ultimately the nation are blessed by the birth of Obed, the grandfather of David the king, to Ruth and Boaz. Redemption in this story restores life to Naomi and provides a rich legacy for Ruth, “the Moabitess.” (As she was named in the old King James translation.) Take note of the flow of the narrative in the book of Ruth, as well as the context of suffering that we see at the outset (not to mention the larger context of its place in the time of the Judges). Redemptive or gospel stories are shaped like the letter “J”. Life in a broken world, while created good and with good intentions, descends into death but then moves up into resurrection for the people of God because that God is powerfully sovereign and good and committed to His people with a hesed love. The suffering experienced by His people (from their sin, the sins of others, or just plain “life in a broken world”), is His “crucible for love.”1 His redemption of them from those factors involves a journey that was first taken by their ultimate Redeemer, the Lord Jesus Christ, in His life, death, resurrection and subsequent glorification. Our lives as believers in Christ are mapped onto His. Reflect: Can you recognize a possible gospel story, or “J-curve” in the events of your life, even including suffering? Consider Romans 6:3-11 in this regard. Can you identify with and imitate Christ in His descent into love at Calvary (the redemption of His people) via the incarnation and His wait for resurrection to return to the Father? Connect: Meditate on the amazing humility of our Lord Jesus in His humiliation and exaltation as described in Philippians 2:1-11 and what it means for believers to be united to Him by faith. Philippians 2:1-11 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 1cf. “A Loving Life In a World of Broken Relationships” , Chapter 1 by Paul Miller Jim Partridge, elder
So after a whirlwind tour - through about 300 years depicting the downward spiral from conquest and entrance into the promised land to spiritual apostasy among the Israelites – we ended with the sad commentary “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). The biblical narrative now lands in a beautiful oasis in the wilderness: the book of Ruth. Here we encounter the classic love story of the Bible and a superb work of narrative art, set in the context of the aforementioned downward spiral, and yet one that has powerful themes with enduring relevance. In four short and compact chapters that read like acts in a play, we learn a story that weaves together the lives of a broken widow, her bold young foreign daughter-in-law, and a man like no other in scripture (pointing to “The Man” like no other in scripture). As a result, we see a sovereign and good God working behind the scenes in a particular place and time in ancient Israel to show His character and redemptive work through people. This foreshadowed the person and work of His Son about a millennium later. The biggest theme of the book of Ruth 1 is that of “steadfast love” or “lovingkindness”, or more simply, “kindness”. These words are used in this book and throughout the OT to describe a key concept in biblical Hebrew called “hesed”. It first appears in the text in 1:8 (“deal kindly”), and then in later verses such as 2:20 and 3:10. Hesed love is not based on feelings, but on commitment and sacrifice, which ties it closely to the biblical idea of covenant. This love is displayed beautifully in the story, especially by Ruth in her stubborn commitment to Naomi, as well as the actions of Boaz toward Ruth (and Naomi by extension). These characters and their actions reflect the hesed love of the Lord for His people. Reflect: Think on the nature of love and the contrast between how it is described and displayed in our popular culture as opposed to the scripture. Which conception of love is most seen in your life? How can you better fulfill Jesus’ greatest commands (Matt.22:36-40)? Ask for the Spirit’s help to become a better hesed lover. Connect: Read and meditate on the NT unpacking of biblical hesed love by the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 13. I Corinthians 13:4-7 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 1cf.“A Loving Life” by Paul Miller for a superb feast on the meaning and application of biblical love as found in the book of Ruth. Rev. Joseph Bianco
*Warning – These chapters contain graphic imagery and sexual assault The chapters that close Judges have echoes of prior stories. It seems that the author wrote this account in such a way as to intentionally bring these former stories to mind. The first story is the epoch of Sodom and Gomorrah where Lot is given hospitality only to find similar men pounding the door asking to “know him” (Gen. 19:5). The verb “to know” in Hebrew is used to denote sexual relations. The second story is from Gen. 4 where Cain murders his brother Abel. One can’t help but notice that the civil war going on in Israel is not just a war between tribes, but a war between brothers (21:6). The point is this: Israel has returned to the debauched days that existed during the early years of the book of Genesis. Not only is there great immorality (rape, murder, sex trafficking), but the nation of Israel has destroyed one of their own brothers, Benjamin. The refrain that we read throughout the book of Judges, “In those day there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes” concludes the book (17:6, 18:1, 19:1, 21:25). This is the overarching lesson of Judges, that when everyone does what is right in their own eyes, the result will be self-destruction, the oppression of the weak and vulnerable (women and children), the denigration of society, and not least, abandoning the LORD. It’s a sad end to the story of Judges, but it is not left without hope. The lack of a king makes room for the future king David to come into power. What is obvious however, is that the Lord ought to be their king, the Sovereign over their lives. In Jesus we see the God-king. Reflect: As you have now finished Judges and find yourself at the bottom of the pit, the resounding statement, “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes” deserves reflection. It is easy to look at society as a whole and blame the problems of our day on those doing what is right in their own eyes. While this is true for secular society, it is also true for Christians. Christians are daily tempted to do what is right in their own eyes and not in the eyes of the LORD. Take some time and write out the ways that you think God is wrong in his judgements and commandments. Then go to the Lord in prayer and ask him to reorient your heart, that your eyes and his may be set on the same horizon. Pray for forgiveness and faith. Then take some time to rest in the king of kings and the Lord of Lords. Connect: Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. 7 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. 8 It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Rev. Joseph Bianco
Our passage begins with a familiar story in the Bible, reminiscent of the barrenness of Sarah where God granted her Isaac. This story is also similar to the birth of Jesus, except that Mary was a virgin. In all of these stories we see God showing up, granting life, and the response is always worship. Here Manoah and his wife are moved to worship as, “they fell on their faces to the ground” (13:20). Not only does this passage illustrate the proper response towards God’s kindness, but gives us hope in the form of a child, set apart to be a Nazirite. Sadly, when this child is grown, he is anything but the hero the reader expected. Samson breaks every one of his Nazirite vows: Samson associates with the dead (14:6-9, 15:15), he cuts his hair (16:17,19), and most likely drinks during his wedding feast (14:10-20). Many children’s Bibles note that Samson was strong, but in reality, every time we see a feat of strength it is due to “Spirit of the Lord” (14:6). God makes it clear that he is using Samson for his purposes in spite of Samson’s failed leadership (14:4). God ultimately uses Samson’s mistake in marrying a philistine woman to cause the destruction of 1000 Philistines by Samson’s hand. God uses Samson’s death and captivity due to Delilah’s seduction to bring down 3000 additional philistines. Israel and their leadership continue to spiral downward, but God has not forgotten his covenant with them. Reflect: The truth is that Samson was a horrible Judge, but God still used Samson to accomplish his purposes. God was still faithful to Israel. Samson was constantly faced with temptations because of the Nazirite vows which required his hair to remain uncut, the prohibition of alcohol, and to not associate with the dead. Take some time to reflect on your own temptations. Where are you tempted in your life to turn against God? Where have you seen him remain faithful to you regardless of how you acted? Second, take some time and pray for your leaders who are also imperfect. If they are not believers in Christ, pray that God would save them. If they are believers, pray that God would strengthen them to remain faithful. Connect: 1 Timothy 2:1–6 [1] First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, [2] for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. [3] This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, [4] who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. [5] For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, [6] who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. Rev. Joseph Bianco
There is a pattern emerging in the text between the relationship of the Judges, the Israelites, and God. The pattern that applies for Othniel, Ehud, Deborah, Gideon, Jephthah, and Samson is as follows: Apostasy (4:1) Servitude (4:2) Supplication and Salvation (4:3-24). At the beginning of chapter 4 we read that because Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord, God gave them to the hands of Jabin, king of Canaan, who oppressed them cruelly for twenty years (4:2). Twenty years is a long time to be under cruel oppression. God then sends Deborah who works with Barak to bring both faithfulness and salvation to Israel. It is noteworthy that Deborah is one of the most faithful judges in the book of Judges. It is also noteworthy that Deborah did not lead the battle herself, but challenged Barak, a man, to do so. In between the battle and the song of Deborah and Barak, we encounter the interesting character Jael who was the wife of Heber the Kenite. The Kenites were distantly related to the Israelites. There we read of this horrific (and heroic) act of driving a tent peg through the head of Sisera, the commander of the Jabin’s army. The victories over Jabin’s army and Sisera both come at the hand of woman (4:9). The song of Deborah and Barak is full of imagery and evokes a few questions. In 5:15 and 5:16 we read a phrase repeated twice, “There were great searchings of heart.” Not all of the tribes of Israel were equally involved in the destruction of Jabin’s army. The song rightly demands the reflection; where is your heart? The second question results from the first, namely what will Israel do in the future? The song begins with the leaders taking leadership, and the people offering themselves willingly. Will God’s people continue to remain faithful now that salvation has arrived? Reflect: There are two major reflections in the chapters and the first directly concerns women. We read about two very strong women in the text, Deborah and Jael. In addition to their strength, in 4:9, the author points out the contrast that the glory will not belong to Barak, but to a woman. Why does the author make this point? At the very least it is to show that in a time in history when Israel is in rebellion against God, God chose to use women in powerful ways to complete his purposes. We read this again in the gospels, various places that Jesus includes women actively in ministry. If you are a woman, how might this story challenge you take up the call for God to use you in powerful ways? Does this scare you or encourage you? How so? Second, there is the question of the “searchings of heart?” As we read these words we are forced to reflect on our own hearts. Take some time in prayer and ask the Lord to search your heart. There you will find a need for repentance and faith. Connect: Luke 8:1-3 Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out,3 and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means. Rev. Joseph Bianco
The book of Judges begins with an ending, the ending of the conquest of Canaan along with the end of Israel’s fidelity to God. Judges as a whole tells the story of the downward spiral of Israel. While God raises up judges to lead them, the Israelites are faithful for a time, but then Israel falls back into rebellion and idol worship. In the beginning of chapter 1 we read of some successful conquests, but by the end of chapter 1 there is obvious failure to clear the land. This failure to obey God’s command results in the Israelites living side-by-side with their enemies. What is the outcome? Syncretism. Syncretism is a word that means the “mixing of religions.” A big difference between Israel and the modern church was that Israel was a nation-state and God has particular commands for the nation of Israel, namely to capture the land. Today the church is not called to the conquest of lands, but there is one similarity that remains exactly the same: the very first commandment Israel received from Moses in Exodus 20:3, “You shall have no other gods before me.” God knew that if Israel did not complete the conquest, syncretism would arise. Today, syncretism still exists. God tests Israel by, “the nations that the LORD left” (3:1). God allowed Israel to be captured and even defeated by these nations, but when God’s people cried out, the LORD raised up Judges to help them. The pattern repeats. Reflect: While there are many similarities between Israel and God’s people today, there are also many differences. One major difference is that at the time of the Judges God called Israel to be a holy people at the center of the world, but today God’s people are called to go out and to “Make disciples of every nation” (Matthew 28:19). What remains the same? Any student of church history can tell you that much like Israel, the church has had a history of apostasy and faithfulness. Often as a response to syncretism, these movements take the form of breaking denominational ties or (going back to the reformation), risking life and limb. As you consider this movement of faithfulness and apostasy, reflect on how you have seen syncretism in your own lifetime. How have you seen this movement in local churches and denominations? What part can you play in helping God’s people to remain faithful? Take some time and ask the Lord how he can use you to help God’s people towards faithfulness. Hint: Try and focus on yourself and your own shortcomings first. Connect: Consider the contrast between the great commission in Matthew and the failed conquest in Judges. Matthew 28:16-20 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Pastor Joseph Bianco
Joshua 6-8 We read about the Fall of Jericho in Children’s Bibles. It’s always depicted as somewhat comical, the Israelites marching around the city, the trumpets blast and all of the sudden the city falls down like children falling down when playing ring around the rosy. It’s anything but comical. Joshua 6:21, says that, “They devoted all in the city to destruction, both men and women, young and old, oxen, sheep, and donkeys, with the edge of the sword.” Take a moment to let that sink in. It’s not funny, or light, or even just a story. It’s God’s message to the reader of the serious consequences of sin. We see this theme of the consequences of sin played out towards Israel in chapter 7 when certain men covet some of the items that were supposed to be devoted to destruction. We see the consequences of sin in chapter 8:25 at the fall of Ai and again, the destruction of “men and women”… “12,000, all the people of Ai.” Anyone reading this text has one question, “How can God allow these atrocities to happen?” Moses gives us God’s answer in Deuteronomy 9:5, “Not because of your righteousness or the uprightness of your heart are you going in to possess their land, but because of the wickedness of these nations the LORD your God is driving them out from before you, and that he may confirm the word that the Lord swore to your father, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.” God has two purposes, to deal with sin and to keep his covenant. It is not surprising then, that at the end of chapter 8 we see a covenant renewal. Let’s be clear, these commands to destroy these cities were commands from God for a particular people in a particular time. They are not the same for God’s people today. But, what is the same for God’s people today is this: Were it not by God’s grace, we too would be destroyed. Were it not for God’s covenant keeping, we could not be forgiven. Were it not for Jesus who was crushed in our place, we would lie beneath the weight of those stones. Reflect: One of the hardest parts of these narratives is reconciling how Israel was used by God to bring judgment on the cities of Canaan because of their sin. Is this a difficult truth to accept, and if so, in what ways are you putting God in the judgment seat? In what ways do you minimize sin in your life? Take a moment to pray over this and thank the Lord that through Jesus we do not experience the crushing weight of sin. Connect: Romans 3:23-26 succinctly explains what Jesus did for us: Romans 3:23-26 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. Pastor Joseph Bianco
Joshua 4-5 In some ways we still use memorial stones today. We see them in graveyards, to mark the people who lie there, we see them on hiking paths to mark changes or transitions in the trail, and we see them in fields - perhaps the ruins of long-lost foundations, a story of what once was. Joshua is aware of Israel’s tendency to forget. We don’t just see the marking of passing over the Jordan (with memorial stones), but the spiritual marking of circumcision, renewing the covenant promise that God made with Abraham in Genesis 17. Lastly, we see a feast of remembrance, the Passover, where Israel remembers the faithfulness of the Lord. As God was faithful then, so he is faithful now. As God is faithful now, he will be faithful again. Then out of nowhere, as if the author intended it to feel as abrupt for the reader as for Joshua, we see the commander of the of the army of the LORD. Terrified, Joshua drops and worships the Lord. There we see a new Moses; there we are reminded that one even greater is coming. Reflect: In the New Testament there is warning, a warning to take care, lest there be in any an evil unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. This warning is related to God’s people abandoning God in the wilderness, allowing their hearts to go astray. In our text today, memorials are set, that they may not forget. Memorials are placed to protect against a wandering heart. In what ways do you find your heart wandering now? Recognize them, write them down. Now leave a memorial, remember all the ways God has been faithful to you. Write those down as well. Now take a moment, remembering Joshua before the angel of the Lord, and take some time to worship God. Connect – Hebrews 3: 7-13 recounts the warning for God’s people not to act like the Israelites during the wilderness wanderings. Hebrew 3:7-13 7 Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice, 8 do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness, 9 where your fathers put me to the test and saw my works for forty years. 10 Therefore I was provoked with that generation, and said, ‘They always go astray in their heart; they have not known my ways.’ 11 As I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall not enter my rest.’” 12 Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. 13 But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. |
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April 2021
CategoriesAuthorThis blog is part of the ministry of City Reformed Presbyterian Church. Unless otherwise noted, the entries are written by Matt Koerber. This is part of a project that our church is doing as we read through the narrative sections of Scripture between early January and Easter 2020. New entries will be scheduled to drop automatically at 5:00 am on the scheduled day. |