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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Israel’s Defeat by the Philistines and the Death of King Saul
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The Bible does not condone suicide. 2. The Bible does not condemn cremation.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. In all your ways acknowledge His and He will direct your paths.
QUESTIONS1. What happened to the Israelites on Mount Gilboa? 2. How did the Philistines boast of their victory over Saul in his death? 3. List some other suicides that are recorded in Scripture. 4. Why did the men of Jabesh Gilead put themselves in danger to rescue the bodies of Saul and his sons? 5. Read Proverbs 3:5-6. Does “all your ways” include the decision about cremation and burial?
ANSWERS1. The Philistines defeated the Israelites and Saul and his sons died. 2. They hung the bodies of Saul and his sons on the high walls of Beth Shan, where they would be seen for miles around. 3. a. Abimelech in Judges 9 b. King Saul here in 1 Samuel 31 c. Ahithophel in 2 Samuel 17 d. King Zimri in1 King 16 e. Judas Iscariot in Matthew 27 4. Forty years earlier King Saul had raised an army to rescue the inhabitants of Jabesh Gilead from the siege and threat of the Ammonites (Chapter 11). 5. Of course. God will guide you in any area if you seek His will.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Review what you have learned about the life of King Saul. This king started out well; even the Spirit of God came upon him. But then he fell to pride, partial obedience, and jealousy. What lesson does his life teach you? 2. Discuss principles from the Bible concerning burial versus cremation.
CHALLENGE1. Reflect on the lessons you learned from the life of King Saul as you conclude this study of 1 Samuel.
KEY VERSES* “So Saul, his three sons, his armorbearer, and all his men died together that same day.” 1 Samuel 31:6 * “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
David and His Men Defeat the Amalekites
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God provides help and strength for defeating the enemy. 2. God provides illustrations and principles for Christian service.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Look for solutions, not scapegoats.
QUESTIONS1. Why were David and his men gone from Ziklag, leaving the women and children unprotected? 2. What happened in Ziklag while David was gone? 3. What good choice did David make after he found Ziklag in ruin? 4. In what ways did the Lord help David in his pursuit of the Amalekites? 5. What controversy arose when David and his men returned home with the spoils?
ANSWERS1. David and his men had been called by the Philistine king to fight with the Philistines against the Israelites. God graciously delivered them from this dilemma (Chapter 29). 2. The Amalekites had raided Ziklag, burned it to the ground, and taken the people captive. 3. He turned to the Lord for help and strength. 4. Although David and his men became exhausted, the Lord strengthened some of them to continue their pursuit. The Lord also led them to an Egyptian slave who led them to the Amalekite camp. 5. The controversy was whether the 200 exhausted men who had stayed with the equipment should share in the spoils of war with the 400 men who went on to battle.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Are you in a situation right now where you have suffered losses because of your bad decisions? Be like David and look to the Lord. Read the following verses and discuss their application to your situation: 2 Timothy 2:26, Hebrews 4:16, Isaiah 40:31. 2. Discuss the important principles for Christian service that we draw from this chapter. Some believers are called to the front lines of Christian service. Others are called to more supporting roles. Both are important and necessary.
CHALLENGE1. When problems and conflicts arise in your home or church, do you look for a scapegoat or for a solution?
KEY VERSES* “David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.” 1 Samuel 30:6 * “And nothing of theirs was lacking, either small or great, sons or daughters, spoil or anything which they had taken from them; David recovered all.” 1 Samuel 30:19
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Lord Rescues David from a Major Dilemma
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Moral mistakes of believers always result in greater problems. 2. God sometimes delivers believers from the consequences of their mistakes.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Take the way of escape that God provides.
QUESTIONS1. What were the Philistines planning according to 1 Samuel 28? 2. What had God prophesied would happen in this battle? 3. What dilemma did David cause for himself here? 4. What are moral mistakes? 5. What was King Achish’ opinion of David? 6. How did God deliver David from this dilemma?
ANSWERS1. The Philistines had joined their various military divisions together and were planning to attack Israel. 2. King Saul and his sons would die, and the army of Israel would fall into the hands of the Philistines. 3. David and his men had turned to the Philistine King Achish for protection from King Saul. They had served him as a mercenary army, and now were obligated to fight for the Philistines against their own countrymen. 4. Moral mistakes in life are sinful. They involve not doing what we know we should do. 5. That David was a loyal servant who had faithfully served him well. 6. He caused the Philistine commanders to pressure King Achish with questions about David’s loyalty, until the King was compelled to send David home.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Discuss the Law of Multiplication in moral mistakes. How is this principle sobering to you? 2. Our sins can be eternally forgiven because of Jesus’ death on the cross. But we may have to live with the consequences of our sin. Recall a time when the Lord graciously delievered you from the consequences of a mistake.
CHALLENGE1. God provides a way of escape from a temptation or test of faith you may face. Take the way of escape when God provides it!
KEY VERSES* “Is this not David, the servant of Saul king of Israel, who has been with me these days, or these years? And to this day I have found no fault in him since he defected to me.” 1 Samuel 29:3 * “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
King Saul and the Witch of Endor
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Spirit mediums cannot contact departed spirits. 2. Spirit mediums are under God’s sovereign control.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t turn to the occult when God doesn’t answer.
QUESTIONS1. In the previous chapter, David fled to the Philistine King Achish for protection from King Saul. What consequence do we see for his lack of faith? 2. Meanwhile, what dilemma is King Saul facing? 3. Why would the Lord not answer Saul (verse 6)? 4. When Samuel appeared to King Saul and the witch, was it really Samuel or a spirit that took on his appearance? 5. What message did God lead Samuel to give Saul?
ANSWERS1. David is expected to go with Achish in battle against Israel, David’s own people. Achish makes David his personal body guard, so he can keep his eye on him! 2. Saul was frightened by the Philistine threat, and the Lord would not answer Saul’s request for direction. So Saul turned to the world of the occult in order to get some kind of answer. 3. Because Saul had turned away from the Lord and was unwilling to obey him. 4. In this case we believe it was really Samuel. This is why the woman was so surprised as well. Usually mediums contact demonic spirits that can mimic the voice and appearance of the dead person. 5. That the kingdom would be taken from Saul and given to David. The following day Saul and his sons would join Samuel in death.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. David’s lack of faith put him in an awful dilemma in this chapter. Recall a time when you faced a dilemma because of a previous lack of faith. Did you continue in your unfaithfulness, or was the dilemma a motivation to get back on track with God? 2. Occult practices are extremely popular in our society today through the entertainment media. Discuss the potential dangers of viewing the occult as entertainment. Discuss what boundaries you have set for yourself and your family in this regard. Read 1 John 4:4.
CHALLENGE1. Has it ever felt like God is not listening to you and doesn’t care? Don’t turn to the occult in this situation. There are many reasons why God may be silent, but it is not because He doesn’t care.
KEY VERSES* “Achish said to David, ‘You assuredly know that you will go out with me to battle, you and your men.’” 1 Samuel 28:1 * “For the LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hand and given it to your neighbor, David.” 1 Samuel 28:17
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
David’s Faith Falters
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Believers can make the same mistake more than once. 2. Believers should not justify the means by the ends.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Try to see your dilemmas coming before they face you.
QUESTIONS1. What is the major theme in this second half of 1 Samuel? 2. Where do we find David at the beginning of this chapter 27? 3. Where did we previously see David seek protection from the Philistines? What was the outcome that time? 4. Explain the expression “The end justifies the means.” 5. What “good ends” was David accomplishing while hiding out in Ziklag? 6. What ugly means did David use to accomplish these ends?
ANSWERS1. Ups and downs in David’s life of faith 2. Spiritually, he is down in the valley of little faith. He has gone back to King Achish and the Philistines for protection from King Saul. We do not see him seeking the Lord’s guidance in this major decision. 3. In 1 Samuel 21, David sought protection from the Philistines and had to pretend insanity in order not to be killed. 4. As long as the outcome is successful, the way you get there does not matter. 5. He was protecting his family, building up support for his future kingdom, and eliminating some of Israel’s ancient enemies. 6. David and his men became mercenaries for King Achish, massacring large settlements of people without the Lord’s direction. David used lying and deceit to cover his tracks in all of this.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The second half of 1 Samuel traces the ups and downs of David’s life of faith. If you made a graph of your spiritual life over the years, would it peek and fall like David’s. Where are you spiritually right now? What can you do to either stay there or improve? 2. David did not look ahead to see the dilemmas his deceit would cause. Discuss which examples struck you from the lecture about the dilemmas our country and we as believers face because we do not look ahead.
CHALLENGE1. Believers should not justify the ends by the means. Have you been justifying some ungodly attitude or activity in your life? Consider David and change your ways.
KEY VERSES* “There is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape to the land of the Philistines.” 1 Samuel 27:1 * “David would save neither man nor woman alive, to bring news to Gath.” 1 Samuel 27:11
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Lord Delivers David
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The Lord will test the righteousness of every believer. 2. The Lord will reward the righteousness of every believer.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Expect to be tested again!
QUESTIONS1. This is the third time David had the opportunity to take his own revenge. When were the previous two times? 2. Why did Saul so easily break the promise he made in 1 Samuel 24:17-22? 3. How did David gain another opportunity to take revenge on King Saul? 4. What was Abishai’s counsel to David? 5. What did David do to Saul?
ANSWERS1. David spared Saul’s life in a cave in En Gedi, although he cut off the corner of his robe (chapter 24). David wanted to take revenge on the rude and prideful Nabal, but Abigail saved the day (chapter 25). 2. There were probably certain men in Saul’s court who hated David and stirred up lies about him in Saul’s mind. 3. David and his men were able to sneak up on Saul’s camp at night. While Saul was sleeping, David and his nephew Abishai were able to get so close to Saul that they could have killed him with his own spear. 4. Abishai told David that this was an opportunity from the Lord. Abishai pleaded with David to at least let him do the job. 5. David only took Saul’s spear and water to prove to Saul and to General Abner that David could have killed the king and that Abner was not protecting the king.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. David had a second opportunity to take revenge on Saul, but again he passed the test of righteousness. Would you have passed? The Lord will test the righteousness of every believer in the areas of honesty and integrity, submission, and much more. Will you pass? 2. The Lord will reward the righteousness of every believer. Your reward for righteous living may not come overnight or even in this lifetime, but when you do the right thing, you will be rewarded. Do you believe this is true?
CHALLENGE1. Although David had already passed the test of faith and patience, he was tested again. Your faith and righteousness will be tested throughout your lifetime. Graduation does not come until we get to heaven.
KEY VERSES* “The LORD forbid that I should stretch out my hand against the LORD’s anointed.” 1 Samuel 26:11 * “May the LORD repay every man for his righteousness and his faithfulness.” 1 Samuel 26:23
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David’s Dealings with Nabal and Abigail
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God allows the Nabals to test our faith and patience. 2. God provides the Abigails to save the day
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let God handle the Nabals.
QUESTIONS1. Who was Nabal? 2. What did David request of Nabal, and what was Nabal’s response? 3. How did David then respond to Nabal’s insult? 4. How did Abigail intervene and save the day? 5. How does the story of David, Nabal, and Abigail end?
ANSWERS1. Nabal was a wealthy rancher who owned 4000 head of sheep and goats. David and his men were camped in the same area as Nabal’s flocks, thus providing protection against any sheep thieves. 2. David asked Nabal for some provisions for his men in return for the protection they had offered his flocks. Nabal responded with rudeness and pride and sent David’s men away empty-handed. He also denounced David’s character in the process. 3. David failed the test of faith and patience. He became enraged at Nabal’s insult and wanted to take his own revenge by killing Nabal and robbing his ranch. 4. Abigail brought a gift of food to meet the needs of David and his men. She showed humility and spoke softly. She acknowledged that David was in the right, and Nabal was wrong, but that did not justify David shedding blood. Abigail also reminded David that he would be king, and he should not be the cause of this bloodshed. 5. After Abigail saved the day, Nabal was struck with what may have been a stroke, and he later died. David took Abigail to be his wife!
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. When was the last time God tested your faith and patience? Was there a Nabal-type person involved? How does James 1:3-4 encourage you to respond the next time such a situation arises? 2. Review Abigial’s approach to David. What lesson on being a peacemaker can you learn from her example? Matthew 6:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
CHALLENGE1. God’s justice will always prevail in time. Let God handle the Nabals!
KEY VERSES* “David said to his men, ‘Every man gird on his sword.’” 1 Samuel 25:13 * “…knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:3-4 * “And blessed is your advice and blessed are you, because you have kept me this day from coming to bloodshed and from avenging myself with my own hand.” 1 Samuel 25:33
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
David Spares Saul’s Life
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The godly let the Lord plead their cause. 2. The ungodly say one thing and do another.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Wait for the Lord in all areas of life.
QUESTIONS1. Where is En Gedi? 2. When did David have the opportunity to retaliate against King Saul? 3. What did David do in the face of this opportunity? 4. How did Saul respond when David revealed himself and showed the corner of Saul’s robe? 5. What significant landmark might have been David’s stronghold (verse 22)?
ANSWERS1. En Gedi, which means “the fountain of the young goat,” is a beautiful fresh water spring amongst the rocks in the hills along the west side of the Dead Sea. 2. As David and his men were hiding in the inner recesses of a cave, Saul came into the cave to either take a rest or go the bathroom. David had a golden opportunity to kill King Saul. 3. He crept up to Saul and cut off the corner of his robe. Later he regretted even doing that to the king. 4. Saul wept and acknowledged that David was right and had shown mercy to him. He even acknowledge that David would be the next king, although this repentance did not last long. 5. This might have been Masada, a natural fortification running south along the coast of the Dead Sea. Masada played a significant role in Jewish history in the first century, AD.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Discuss how David followed the principle of Romans 12:19. He did not take matters into his own hands and take his own revenge. Are you facing opposition in some area you know God has led you? How will you let the Lord plead your cause against your enemies? 2. Have you ever put your trust in ungodly people, institutions, or organizations? Did you experience the principle that the ungodly say one thing and do another? How can you prove yourself as a godly person that others can trust?
CHALLENGE1. David learned from his experiences with Saul how to wait for the Lord. Has the Lord allowed you to go through testing and trying situations so you will learn to wait for Him? Be encouraged by Psalm 27:14
KEY VERSES* “Then Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God.” 1 Samuel 24:12 * “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” Psalm 27:14
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God’s Continued Protection and Encouragement for David
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The Lord provides protection during times of trouble. 2. The Lord provides encouragement during times of trouble.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t assume that every opportunity is from the Lord.
QUESTIONS1. What report did David hear while he was hiding in the wilderness from King Saul? 2. In what unique way did the Lord communicate to David through the garments of the high priest? 3. How is David a spiritual picture of the Lord Jesus in this chapter? 4. What stopped Saul during his pursuit of David? 5. Why was Jonathon able to find David when Saul was not able to find him?
ANSWERS1. He heard that the Philistines had attacked the border town of Keilah and were plundering the threshing floors. 2. The ephod of the high priest was an apron-like garment over which was a breastplate. Twelve precious stones on the breastplate represented the twelve tribes of Israel. The Urim and the Thummin were probably two additional stones in the breastplate, which the high priest used to determine yes or no answers about the Lord’s will. 3. Like David, the Lord was rejected and betrayed by the very people He came to save. 4. An urgent message came to Saul telling him that the Philistines had invaded the land. 5. This is another indication that the Lord was protecting David.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. When David was in trouble, he could not look to the people for protection, because they were willing to betray him! Instead he looked to the Lord. What kind of troubles are you facing in your life? Have you sought the protection only the Lord can provide? 2. Jonathan encouraged David by reminding him of the promises of God. Did you know that is the most important thing you can bring people who are hurting and in times of trouble? Think of one person you can encourage this week by reminding them of God’s care and control in their situation.
CHALLENGE1. Saul wrongly assumed the “open doors” to pursue David were from the Lord. We can be deceived this way as well! The devil can provide all kinds of opportunities and open doors for you to do your own will! Be aware.
KEY VERSES* “Saul sought [David] every day, but God did not deliver him into his hand.” 1 Samuel 23:14 * “Then Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God.” 1 Samuel 23:16 * “The LORD is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble; And He knows those who trust in Him.” Nahum 1:7
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David and his Ragtag Army Hide in the Wilderness
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Following the right leader leads to eternal rewards. 2. Following the wrong leader leads to tragic results.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s be willing to admit our mistakes.
QUESTIONS1. Why did David take his parents to the land of Moab? 2. Who was Gad? 3. What kind of men gathered themselves around David? 4. Why were 85 priests and many women, children, and animals killed in the village of Nob? 5. Who slaughtered this community?
ANSWERS1. He took them there for safety from King Saul. Saul was enemies with Moab, so they were open to David’s request. David also had distant relatives in Moab, through his great grandmother Ruth. 2. Gad was a prophet the Lord provided to exhort, advise, and counsel David during these times of trouble. He also wrote a record of much of David’s life (see 1 Chronicles 29:29). 3. Men who were in distress, in debt, discouraged, and discontent. But they chose the right leader to follow. 4. Because Doeg the Edomite reported that Ahimelech the high priest had aided David in his flight from Saul. 5. Doeg did it himself, because Saul’s guards would not strike the priests of the Lord.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. In this chapter we see that following the right leader leads to reward. How was this true for David’s army? How is this true for us as believers? Discuss how David is a spiritual picture of Christ in His time of rejection. 2. Following the wrong leader led to tragic results for Doeg the Edomite. This is also true for people today who reject Christ and follow Satan. Discuss the tragic results for those who choose to follow the Antichrist in the end times.
CHALLENGE1. David did the right thing by admitting his mistake in this chapter. Are you willing to admit your mistakes and take the blame? Don’t shift the blame to others. Admit when you are wrong and humbly repent.
KEY VERSES* “And everyone who was in distress, everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to [David]. So he became captain over them.” 1 Samuel 22:2 * “Turn and kill the priests of the LORD, because their hand also is with David, and because they knew when he fled and did not tell it to me.” 1 Samuel 22:17
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
David Seeks Provision from Ahimelech and Protection from Achish
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The testimony of believers is compromised when they lie to fellow believers. 2. The testimony of believers is compromised when they turn to the world for security.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s learn from our mistakes.
QUESTIONS1. What painful decision did David make in 1 Samuel 20? 2. Who was usually allowed to eat the showbread? Why was an exception made here? 3. What did Jesus teach in relation to this story? 4. When did David lie to the high priest Ahimelech in this chapter? 5. Why did David pretend to be crazy before King Achish?
ANSWERS1. David became a fugitive and left his wife and position in the royal court, because King Saul continued to threaten his life. 2. According to the Law in Leviticus 24, this bread was normally for the priests. In this case, the preservation of David’s life was more important than a ceremonial regulation. 3. The Lord referenced this event in Matthew 12 when the Pharisees were criticizing the disciples for picking and eating grain on the Sabbath. His point was that moral obligations in life supersede civil or ceremonial regulations. 4. In verse 2 he claimed to be on secret business for the king. In verse 8 he said the king’s business required haste. 5. He wanted the Philistines to think he was harmless, so they would give him refuge from King Saul.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. This lesson taught that “moral obligations in life supersede civil or ceremonial regulations.” Give an application for this biblical principle today. The Bible is not teaching that is permissible to break God’s moral laws on occasion. 2. Lying is never justified, and David’s lies in this chapter were no exception. How does this compare to discussion question #1. What was the sad consequence of David’s lie?
CHALLENGE1. David made several mistakes in this chapter, but he learned from his mistakes. This does not excuse the mistake, but hopefully we will also learn from our mistakes and make less in the future.
KEY VERSES* “So the priest gave him holy bread; for there was no bread there but the showbread which had been taken from before the LORD.” 1 Samuel 21:6 * “Then David arose and fled that day from before Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath.” 1 Samuel 21:10
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The Painful Separation Between David and Jonathan
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. There will be painful decisions in the life of faith. 2. There will be painful separations in the life of faith.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Use 1 Samuel 20:42 instead of Genesis 31:49 as a blessing.
QUESTIONS1. What sort of painful decisions was David facing at this point in his life? 2. Were these painful decisions the result of something David had done wrong? 3. What plan did David and Jonathan devise to communicate whether it was safe for David to return to the palace? 4. What covenant did David and Jonathan make with one another? 5. Why is 1 Samuel 20:42 a better blessing than Genesis 31:49?
ANSWERS1. Whether to stay with his wife or flee for his life. Whether he should rescue his family in Bethlehem, or go into hiding as a fugitive. 2. No, David had done nothing wrong. These painful decisions were just part of his life. 3. Jonathan would come out to the field where David was hiding, and shoot some arrows. When his messenger boy ran to fetch them, if Jonathan said, “Look the arrow is beyond you,” David would know he needed to flee for safety. 4. They promised to care for one another’s families in the future, no matter what else happened. 5. The verse in Genesis is not a blessing in context, but the verse in Samuel is.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Discuss whether or not David asked Jonathan to lie to his father in this chapter. Is lying justified in some circumstances? How could David be called a man after God’s own heart, if this was a lie? 2. Think of a painful decision you have faced in your life of faith. Did the outcome of that decision strengthen your faith in God?
CHALLENGE1. Have you been separated from a loved one because of work, ministry, or death? There will be painful separations in the life of faith. Remember, the Lord will always be there to bring comfort and hope.
KEY VERSES* “You shall not only show me the kindness of the LORD while I still live…but you shall not cut off your kindness from my house forever.” 1 Samuel 20:14-15 * “May the LORD be between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants, forever.” 1 Samuel 20:42
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David is Protected from King Saul
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BACKGROUND NOTES1.
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God can use natural means to protect His servants. 2. God can use supernatural means to protect His servants.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s be peacemakers like Jonathan.
QUESTIONS1. What was David’s status in Israel in the beginning of the chapter? 2. What was the bad news for David at this point? 3. Why was there an idol in David’s household, as we see in verse 13? 4. List the four natural means God used to protect David from King Saul. 5. Recount the humorous event of God’s supernatural protection of David.
ANSWERS1. David was a popular hero and a young general in the Israelite military forces. He was married to Michal, one of King Saul’s daughters, and was close friends with Saul’s son, Jonathan. 2. Because of David’s popularity, Saul became extremely jealous of David. 3. Possession of these household idols in that culture did not necessarily mean the owner was involved in idolatry. Small idols were used as title deeds to property, and this large idol may have been a cultural decoration. 4. a. Friends b. Human ability c. Family d. Circumstances 5. When King Saul heard that David was with Samuel, he sent messengers there to take David. But the Spirit of God came upon these henchmen and they prophesized in spite of themselves. This happened 3 times, until Saul himself came. He also was forced by the Spirit of God to prophesy in spite of himself.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. This story of David’s protection is similar to God’s protection of Elijah in 1 Kings 17. In both cases, God used natural and supernatural means to protect and provide for His servants. Discuss the parallels in these stories. 2. Can God use supernatural means to protect His people today? Yes! Do you know about personal accounts of this?
CHALLENGE1. Jonathan was willing to speak to his father and make a temporary peace with David. He did this even at the risk of his own life. How can you be a peacemaker between the people in your life?
KEY VERSES* “Jonathan told David, saying, ‘My father Saul seeks to kill you.’” 1 Samuel 19:2 * “Then Saul sought to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he slipped away from Saul’s presence.” 1 Samuel 19:10
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Jonathan’s Friendship with David and Saul’s Jealousy
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. There will always be people who honor the Lord’s servants. 2. There will always be people who are jealous of the Lord’s servants.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t miss the spiritual picture of Jonathan’s love for David.
QUESTIONS1. What were the results of David’s victory over Goliath? 2. How did Saul respond to David’s popularity? 3. How did Jonathon fit into this power struggle? 4. Review how this passage shows the progress of jealousy. 5. What dowry did Saul require of David? How did David fulfill this?
ANSWERS1. Saul set him over the army of Israel. David also became a popular hero in Israel. 2. He became insanely jealous and tried to kill David twice. 3. Jonathan would have been king after his father Saul, but he recognized that the kingdom had been given to David. Jonathan showed David respect, honor, loyalty, and help. 4. a. Jealousy sees others as a threat (verses 8-9). b. Jealousy cannot stand seeing the blessing of God on others (verses 12, 14-15). c. Jealousy does not keep promises (verse 13). 5. Saul demanded 100 foreskins of the Philistines as a dowry for his daughter, hoping in the process David would be killed. David returned with 200 foreskins, increasing Saul’s jealousy.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Consider Jonathan’s remarkable reaction to David’s popularity and authority. Contrast this with Saul’s reaction. Think of the people God has raised up to be spiritual shepherds and leaders in your life. Do you react to them as Jonathan or as Saul? 2. Jealousy destroyed the relationship between Saul and David. Even today the sin of jealousy can destroy friendships, fellowships, and churches. What are some practical ways you can guard against jealousy in your own heart?
CHALLENGE1. Jonathan is a spiritual picture of the committed Christian who shows love and devotion to the Lord at all costs. Be a Jonathan today.
KEY VERSES* “Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul.” 1 Samuel 18:3 * “Thus Saul saw and knew that the LORD was with David…and Saul was still more afraid of David. So Saul became David’s enemy continually.” 1 Samuel 18:28-29
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David’s Victory Over Goliath
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God is not confined to conventional methods in spiritual warfare. 2. God can use a believer’s former experience in spiritual warfare.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t practice fanciful interpretation of Scripture.
QUESTIONS1. Why does it seem at the end of the chapter that King Saul didn’t know David? 2. Who do David and Goliath represent as an illustration of spiritual warfare? 3. What was Saul’s response when David volunteered to fight Goliath? 4. How did God use David’s former experience in his victory over Goliath? 5. What principle can verse 48 teach us about spiritual warfare?
ANSWERS1. One possible answer is that while Saul knew David as his harp player and armor bearer, now that he was about to become his son-in-law, Saul was asking about his lineage. 2. Goliath represents satanic forces opposed to God’s people. David represents committed and courageous believers who are willing to step out in faith and fight the Goliaths. 3. He objected that David was an untrained youth. He insisted that David wear his armor into battle. 4. David became skilled in using a slingshot when he shepherded his sheep. David had killed a lion and bear while tending his sheep, which certainly gave David confidence and courage against Goliath. 5. That David ran toward Goliath is an illustration of staying on the offensive in spiritual warfare.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Discuss how David is ultimately a spiritual picture of Christ Himself who conquered Satan. A number of points were mentioned in the background section of this Talk. 2. What former experience do you have that God can use in spiritual warfare? Have you seen this happen in your life?
CHALLENGE1. Don’t practice fanciful interpretation of Scripture, the story of David and Goliath is incredible as it is!
KEY VERSES* “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” 1 Samuel 17:35 * “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” 1 Samuel 17:45 * “The battle is the LORD’s, and He will give you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:47
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Goliath Presents a Challenge to the Army of Israel
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The enemy will always have his Goliaths. 2. The Lord will always have His Davids.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s fight the Goliaths and not our brothers!
QUESTIONS1. Where is the Valley of Elah? 2. How tall was Goliath? How much did his armor weigh? How much did the head of his spear weigh? 3. What was Goliath’s challenge to the Israelites? 4. What would be given to the man who defeated Goliath? 5. What do the battles in the Old Testament between God’s people Israel and their enemies represent? 6. What does the number 40 represent in Scripture?
ANSWERS1. About 20 miles southwest of Jerusalem 2. He was 9’ 9” tall. His armor weighed about 125 pounds and his spear about 16 pounds. 3. Goliath challenged the Israelites to send out a warrior for a contest, which would determine the outcome of the battle. This was a common strategy in the ancient world. 4. King Saul had promised to give the champion his daughter as a wife. Furthermore, he would be made wealthy and his family would be tax-free. 5. They generally illustrate some aspect of our spiritual warfare. 6. It is the number of testing.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Secular science is one of Satan’s “Goliaths” facing us in spiritual warfare today. Can you list some other giants of the Enemy? 2. David did not waste time arguing when his brother questioned his motives. Have fellow believers ever misread your motives? Did you focus on fighting the Goliath rather than your brothers?
CHALLENGE1. God raises up Davids to fight the spiritual battle against the enemy. Are you willing and prepared to fight?
KEY VERSES* “And a champion went out from the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, from Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span.” 1 Samuel 17:4 * “For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” 1 Samuel 17:23
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David is Selected as the Next King of Israel
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. All human hearts are under the searching eye of God. 2. All evil spirits are under the sovereign control of God.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Listen to hymns in order to soothe your soul.
QUESTIONS1. Why did Samuel travel to Bethlehem? 2. Why did the elders of the city tremble when they met Samuel? 3. What did anointing with oil symbolize in the Old Testament? 4. How did Saul first come to know David? 5. Do Satan and his angels have complete freedom on this earth?
ANSWERS1. The Lord sent him to secretly anoint one of the sons of Jesse as the next king of Israel. 2. Samuel was a circuit riding judge. The elders of Bethlehem thought that Samuel had come to their city to pronounce and execute judgment concerning some matter. 3. Kings and High priests were anointed to symbolize that this person was set apart for God’s holy service. 4. David was called to be Saul’s harp player. He made such a good impression on the king, that he was made Saul’s armor bearer. 5. No, they are under the sovereign control of God and are only permitted to do what God allows.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. As humans we tend to be impressed by outward credentials, such as good looks or talent. God is not impressed with such outward appearances; He looks at the heart. If you are a parent, how can you teach your children to prioritizes heart attitude over outward appearance? 2. While God is not the source of evil, He can use the evil of mankind or fallen angels to accomplish His purpose. Discuss this principle. Refer to Ephesians 1:11.
CHALLENGE1. Saul’s soul was refreshed when David played his harp. Is your soul distressed by the pressures of life? Try listening to music that contains Scripture to calm your troubled soul.
KEY VERSES* “For man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 * “And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him.” 1 Samuel 16:23
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The Lord Tells Samuel to Anoint David
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The Bible never condones lying and deceiving. 2. The Bible sometimes condones secrecy and concealment.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Remember, getting killed is not the worst thing that can happen!
QUESTIONS1. What test did King Saul fail in 1 Samuel 15? 2. What was the consequence of Saul’s disobedience? 3. Why was Samuel afraid to go to Bethlehem? 4. What did God instruct Samuel to tell King Saul? 5. What are situational ethics?
ANSWERS1. Saul was given one last chance to obey the Lord, but he failed to utterly destroy the Amalekites as God instructed. 2. The kingdom of Israel would be taken from him and given to a better man. 3. Because if proud and disobedient King Saul heard that Samuel had anointed his successor as king, he would have Samuel killed. 4. That he was going to Bethlehem to offer sacrifice (which he did!). 5. Situational ethics teach that it is okay to lie in time of war or if you think it is the more loving thing to do.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Discuss the Bible’s position on lying and deceiving. Consider Samuel here, the Hebrew midwives, and Rahab. The Bible teaches non-conflicting moral absolutes; to make the right choice you do not have to break one of God’s moral laws or choose the lesser of two evils. Consider the example of Jesus. 2. Discuss how creative concealment can by used in order to obey the command of the Lord. For more information, refer to Dr. Dave’s essay, An Exercise in Ethics.
CHALLENGE1. Bringing God glory by doing the right thing is the highest priority. Remember, getting killed is not the worst thing that can happen!
KEY VERSES* “How long will you mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go; I am sending you to Jesse the Bethlehemite. For I have provided Myself a king among his sons.” 1 Samuel 16:1
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Saul’s Partial Obedience in Failing to Destroy the Amalekites
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BACKGROUND NOTES1.
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Obedience is better than sacrifice. 2. Obedience is better than repentance.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t build monuments to yourself.
QUESTIONS1. Why did the Lord call for total destruction of the Amalekites? 2. Did Saul follow God’s command to utterly destroy the Amalekites? 3. How did Saul justify his selective obedience? 4. What was a result of Saul’s disobedience?
ANSWERS1. a. God did not want the idolatry and immorality of the Amalekites or any of the pagan peoples of the land to infiltrate and corrupt God’s people through intermarriage or other cultural ties.
b. Because of the Amalekites’ past sin of attacking Israel in the wilderness. This command of God was just and righteous punishment.
c. All of the battles against the enemies of God’s people in the Old Testament picture the spiritual warfare of believers today.
2. No, he kept alive King Agag and all of the best animals in the flocks and herds.
3. He told Samuel that he planned to sacrifice the animals to the Lord. He also shifted the blame to the people.
4. Samuel told Saul again that God had rejected him from being king over Israel.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. To obey is better than sacrifice. This biblical truth is just as true today. Discuss how it can be lived out in a believer’s life. 2. Obedience is better than repentance. Many Christian leaders who were once greatly used of God have been set aside from their position of leadership, because of disobedience. Even though many have repented and been restored to the Lord, the consequences of their disobedience limits their future ministry. Discuss this sad truth.
CHALLENGE1. Do you try to build monuments to yourself in the way you describe your good deeds to others? Self monuments are an indication of pride. Let God build your monuments.
KEY VERSES* “I greatly regret that I have set up Saul as king, for he has turned back from following Me, and has not performed My commandments.” 1 Samuel 15:11 * “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” 1 Samuel 15:22
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King Saul Makes Two Foolish Vows
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Foolish decisions result in needless hardships. 2. Foolish decisions result in tragic situations.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t make decisions in the emotion of the moment.
QUESTIONS1. What title was suggested for 1 Samuel 14? 2. Who was Abner? 3. What rash oath did Saul make on behalf of his soldiers? 4. What tragic situation occurred that night after the battle? 5. What foolish decision did Saul make next? 6. Did Jonathon die that night?
ANSWERS1. “Faith in contrast to Folly,” the faith of Jonathon contrasted with the foolishness of Saul 2. Saul’s uncle, and the commander of his army 3. That they would not eat any food until evening, when they had taken vengeance on their enemies 4. The people were so hungry they started ravenously slaughtering and eating the animals taken from the Philistines, without first draining the blood. This was a violation of the Mosaic Law. 5. Because God would not answer Saul as to whether to pursue the Philistines further, Saul wrongly assumed that someone had sinned by breaking his foolish fasting vow. He said that even if his son Jonathon had broken the fast, he would surely die. 6. No, God intervened and the people rescued Jonathon, protecting him from Saul.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Foolish decisions result in needless hardships and tragic situations. Consider by yourself decisions that you have made regarding your family, church, and workplace. Did these decisions follow biblical principle of decision making? You can read about these principles in Dr. Dave’s essay, The Seven C’s of Decision Making.
CHALLENGE1. Even well meaning decisions made in the emotion of the moment can have sad consequences. Don’t make decisions in the emotion of the moment.
KEY VERSES* “Cursed is the man who eats any food until evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies.” 1 Samuel 14:24 * “Now there was fierce war with the Philistines all the days of Saul.” 1 Samuel 14:52
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Jonathan’s Victory Over the Philistines
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God can bring victory against all odds. 2. God can cause confusion in the enemy camp.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Thank the Lord for the armor bearers He provides.
QUESTIONS1. Where was King Saul’s capital in Israel? 2. What was the Israelites latest problem with the Philistines? 3. What sign did God use to direct Jonathon and his armor bearer? 4. What is one interpretation of verse 19? 5. Who were the “Hebrews” of verse 21?
ANSWERS1. Saul’s capital was in Gibeah, a few miles north of Jerusalem. 2. The Philistines in Michmash were sending out raiding parties in all directions and attacking the towns and villages of Israel. 3. If when they exposed themselves to the Philistines they were invited to come across the steep valley, they would know that God was directing them to move out by faith. 4. The confusion was so great in the enemy camp that Saul told Abijah the priest not to bother consulting the Urim and Thummin, because it was obvious that God was directing Israel to attack the Philistines. 5. They were Hebrew mercenaries who had been wrongly fighting for the Philistines. Now they turned back and fought for Israel.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Recall other events in Israel’s history where God gave them victory against great odds. 2. God gives victory against great odds in spiritual warfare as well. Discuss examples of this from history and your own life.
CHALLENGE1. Jonathon had a willing and courageous armor bearer to go into the battle with him. Who has God provided as an “armor bearer” to support you in your Christian ministry today?
KEY VERSES* “For nothing restrains the LORD from saving by many or by few.” 1 Samuel 14:6 * “So the LORD saved Israel that day, and the battle shifted to Beth Aven.” 1 Samuel 14:23
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King Saul’s Disobedience
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Disobeying the Lord is never justified by circumstances. 2. Disobeying the Lord results in loss of status.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Give credit where credit is due.
QUESTIONS1. How does archeology back up the teaching of 1 Samuel 13:19? 2. Should we be concerned by the two manuscript discrepancies in 1 Samuel 13? 3. Why were the men of Israel scared as they faced battle with the Philistines? 4. What did Saul decide to do in face of the discouraging circumstances? 5. What was the sad consequence of Saul’s disobedience?
ANSWERS1. The archeological record confirms that until the time of David, the Philistines had a monopoly on iron technology. 2. No, these variations are relatively few in the Bible, and they do not affect doctrine. 3. The Israelites were hopelessly outnumbered, with no chariots or cavalry. Furthermore, all Israel had to use as weapons were their farm implements – pitchforks and pickaxes! 4. Saul did not wait for Samuel to come and offer sacrifices before the battle. He took matters into his own hands, and wrongly offered the sacrifices himself. 5. Saul’s sons would not carry on his role as king of Israel. Instead, God would appoint as king a man after His own heart, David.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Many Christians behave like Saul, cheating in their Christian lives because of the circumstances. But disobeying the Lord is never justified by circumstances. Discuss this principle. Can you think of any exceptions to the rule? 2. The consequence of Saul’s disobedience was that his sons would not continue his dynasty as king of Israel. This was a sore consequence for Saul and all of his ancestors to follow. Discuss how your actions and decisions today can have a long-term effect on your family.
CHALLENGE1. Saul apparently took credit for Jonathon’s victory over the Philistines. He often took credit where it was not his due. Is this your character? Watch out for your pride, give credit to others.
KEY VERSES* “Therefore I felt compelled, and offered a burnt offering.” 1 Samuel 13:12 * “For now the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your kingdom shall not continue.” 1 Samuel 13:13-14
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Samuel’s Farewell Address to Israel
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God’s people need to be reminded about the proof of God’s faithfulness. 2. God’s people need to be warned about the possibility of their own unfaithfulness.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s not sin by failing to pray for others. 2. Let’s remember to remember!
QUESTIONS1. Why did all the people gather at Gilgal? 2. Now that all the people affirmed Saul’s kingship, what did Samuel do? 3. Did Samuel retire from ministry at this point? 4. What was the point of Samuel recounting the history of Israel from the Exodus until the victory of King Saul over the Ammonites? 5. Did God’s faithfulness to His people end because they wrongly desired a king?
ANSWERS1. To confirm Saul as the king of all Israel 2. Samuel stepped down from his recognized position as judge in Israel. This chapter is his farewell address. 3. No, he continued to carry on his priestly and prophetic duties within Israel, but his administrative responsibilities as judge were relinquished. 4. To show that God was faithful and righteous in all His dealings with His people. 5. No, God continued to be faithful. He will never abandon His people.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Samuel recounted the history of Israel to remind the people of God’s righteous acts and faithfulness. Believers today need to be reminded of this as well. Briefly recount your history. Does it testify of 1 Corinthians 1:9? 2. Recall a time in your life that you were unfaithful to the Lord. How did God’s discipline demonstrate His faithfulness to you? See Hebrews 12:7 and 1 Peter 4:17.
CHALLENGE1. We are a forgetful people, who quickly forget God’s faithfulness to us. Set aside time this week to reflect on what God has done for you. “Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.” 1 Samuel 12:24
KEY VERSES* “If you fear the LORD and serve Him and obey His voice, and do not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then both you and the king who reigns over you will continue following the LORD your God.” 1 Samuel 12:14 * “Far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way.” 1 Samuel 12:23
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Saul Defeats the Ammonites
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The enemy will attack God’s people where they are vulnerable. 2. The enemy will blind God’s people if they compromise.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s be angry for God’s sake.
QUESTIONS1. Where was Jabesh Gilead? 2. Were the Ammonites the same as the Ammorites? 3. Why would the men of Jabesh Gilead be helpless without their right eyes? 4. Why was Saul so motivated to go and help Jabesh Gilead? 5. Why did God want all of His people to cross the Jordan and dwell in the heart of the Promised Land?
ANSWERS1. Jabesh Gilead was in the territory of the half tribe of Manasseh that had settled east of the Jordan River, 25 miles south of the Sea of Galilee. 2. No, they were both enemies of Israel, but the Ammonites were descended from Lot. 3. Most people were right handed and held their shields in the left hand, which covered the left eye. Therefore a warrior would be helpless to revolt if he did not have his right eye. 4. Saul was from the tribe of Benjamin, which had almost been wiped out in civil war during the time of the judges. Four hundred maidens from Jabesh Gilead were given to the men of Benjamin who survived the war. Saul’s lineage could have included a woman from Jabesh Gilead. 5. For unity and security
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Jabesh Gilead and the rest of the territories on the east side of the Jordan were vulnerable to enemy attack. They settled for less than God’s perfect will by choosing to settle there. The Enemy will attack God’s people where they are vulnerable today as well. Have you settled for less than God’s perfect will in your life? Are you more vulnerable to the Enemy’s attack? Read 1 Peter 5:8. 2. If the people of Jabesh Gilead had surrendered to the enemy, the result would be their literal blindness. Many people today are blinded to spiritual realities and the truth of God’s Word. They are ineffective in spiritual battle because they have surrendered to the enemy in some area of their walk of faith. If you are in this group, don’t compromise! Ask God to send help and victory.
CHALLENGE1. King Saul was filled with good and righteous anger when he heard of the threat of the Ammonites. We should be angry when we see God and His Word mocked and slandered. Let’s be angry for God’s sake.
KEY VERSES* “Then the Spirit of God came upon Saul when he heard this news, and his anger was greatly aroused.” 1 Samuel 11:6 * “So all the people went to Gilgal, and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal.” 1 Samuel 11:15
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Saul is Anointed as the First King of Israel
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God will show His people the paths they should follow. 2. God will show His people the leaders they should follow.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Expect support and opposition if you are God’s chosen leader.
QUESTIONS1. Describe how Saul met Samuel from the human perspective and from the divine perspective. 2. Why were people anointed with oil in Old Testament times? 3. Review the three signs God gave Saul through the prophet Samuel. 4. Was it God’s perfect will for Israel to have a king? 5. How should elders and church leaders be chosen today?
ANSWERS1. From the human perspective, Saul was looking for his lost donkeys, but from the divine perspective, God was sending Saul to Samuel to be anointed as the first king of Israel. 2. To symbolize that the person was set apart for divine service 3. a. Two men would meet him at Rachel’s tomb and tell him the lost donkeys had been found. b. Three men would meet Saul at the Oak of Tabor, carrying three young goats, three loaves of bread, and a jug of wine. They would give him two loaves of bread. c. When Saul came to Gibeah, a group of prophets would meet him and the Spirit of the Lord would come upon him and he would prophesy. 4. No, God wanted to be their ruler. But God allowed them to have a king and even chose a king for them. 5. Elders and church leaders should not be chosen by popular vote. God raises up His chosen leaders and they will be known and shown by the work they are doing. It is the responsibility of God’s people to recognize the leaders that God has raised up.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The way the Lord lead Saul is generally the way He leads His people today. Not with shooting stars or voices from heaven, but through normal events that confirm the direction we are going as we seek to walk with the Lord, serve Him, and follow His plan for our lives. The three signs God gave Saul can be divided into three categories: a. Circumstances b Needs supplied c Counsel of godly Believers How has God used these ways to show you the path that you should follow.
CHALLENGE1. Some valiant men supported King Saul, while other men opposed him. If God has called you to be a spiritual leader in some ministry, don’t quit because there is opposition. Expect support and opposition if you are God’s chosen leader.
KEY VERSES* “Is it not because the LORD has anointed you commander over His inheritance?” 1 Samuel 10:1 * “You have today rejected your God, who Himself saved you from all your adversities and your tribulations; and you have said to Him, ‘No, set a king over us!’” 1 Samuel 10:19
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Saul Will be the First King of Israel
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God is sovereign over the details of His will that He chooses to use in His plan. 2. God is sovereign over the details of His will that He chooses to reveal to His people.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Praise the Lord! He does not forget about the lost donkeys!
QUESTIONS1. What is a theocracy? 2. What kind of man was Saul? 3. How was Saul to be brought into contact with Samuel so he could be anointed king? 4. How did Saul respond when Samuel told him he would be king of Israel? 5. Did Saul get his donkeys back?
ANSWERS1. A theocracy is a government with direct rule by God. Israel was supposed to be a theocracy with God as king. 2. Saul was an impressive looking man. He was tall and handsome and descended from a military hero in Israel. Saul was the people’s choice to be king, but he was not a man after God’s own heart. 3. Through detailed circumstances that were all part of God’s plan. 4. He was quite humble, saying he was no one special. 5. Yes (verse 20).
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God works through detailed events and circumstances – big and small – to accomplish His plan for our lives. Can you give examples of this from your life? 2. God revealed a number of details to Samuel about Saul, but He omitted several details that would have been easy to include. In the same way today, we don’t know why God chooses to reveal some of the details of His will for our lives and chooses not to reveal other details. Can you give examples of this as well?
CHALLENGE1. While God is working to reveal His will in guiding our lives, He cares about little details as well! Praise the Lord that He does not forget about the lost donkeys!
KEY VERSES* “There was not a more handsome person than [Saul] among the children of Israel. From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people.” 1 Samuel 9:2 * “And on whom is all the desire of Israel? Is it not on you and on all your father’s house?” 1 Samuel 9:20
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Israel’s Demand for a King
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BACKGROUND NOTES1.
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Believers can not pass on their spirituality. 2. Believers can settle for God’s permissive will.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Watch out for the “We want to be like other nations” syndrome.
QUESTIONS1. What was the state of the priesthood at the time of Samuel? 2. Did Samuel’s sons carry on his lineage? 3. Can you guarantee your child will grow up spiritually healthy and active? 4. What was God’s perfect will for the people regarding a king? 5. Why did the people of Israel ask for a king? 6. What problems did Samuel foretell the people would face if they chose to have a king over them?
ANSWERS1. The priesthood was in sad shape. Eli was dead, and God had removed his sons, Hophni and Phineas. Samuel was not a priest, but he was a Levite and a Judge, who offered sacrifices on behalf of Israel. 2. No. Samuel had decided to spread his workload and had his two sons appointed as judges. He sent them to Beersheba in the southern part of Israel while he remained in the north. But Samuel’s sons did not walk in their father’s footsteps (verse 3). 3. No. Parents are responsible to bring up their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4), but you cannot make your children spiritual. That is a matter of their individual walk with the Lord. 4. God’s perfect will was not for Israel to have a king at this point. God was to be their king, but they had rejected the Lord from being king over them (verse 7). 5. Because Samuel was old and his sons did not walk in his ways, and because they wanted to be like the other nations. 6. a. They would be taxed. b. There would be a draft for military and domestic service. c. The best of their crops would go to the king. d. They would regret their choice of God’s permissive will.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Samuel’s spirituality was not passed on to his sons. Perhaps this is because he was on the road a lot judging Israel, and thus did not give enough time to the spiritual welfare of his family. This is a problem that faces many men in the ministry today. Do you a have a proper balance between your ministry and your God-given family responsibilities? 2. n God’s permissive will He told Samuel to listen to the voice of the people and give them a king. Discuss other cases in the Bible where there is a clear distinction made between God’s perfect will and His permissive will.
CHALLENGE1. Beware of wanting to be like other Christian families, ministries, or churches. The Lord may give you exactly what you request, but it may not be His perfect will. It is better to humbly walk step by step with the Lord and be guided in His perfect will and timing.
KEY VERSES “Now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.”* 1 Samuel 8:5 * “Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.” 1 Samuel 8:7 *
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Israel Returns to the Lord Under Samuel's Leadership
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God gives victory to His people when they return to Him. 2. God restores losses to His people when they return to Him.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s follow Samuel’s Ebenezer example.
QUESTIONS1. Where was the Ark of the Covenant taken after it returned from the Land of the Philistines? 2. What was Samuel’s role in the nation of Israel at this time? 3. What does verse 2 mean when it says Israel lamented after the Lord? 4. What did the people of Israel have to do before revival could come? 5. What happened when the Philistines attacked the Israelites while they were gathered at Mizpah? 6. What does “Ebenezer” mean?
ANSWERS1. It was taken to the town of Kiriath Jearim and remained there for at least 100 years in the house of Abinadab. 2. He was a circuit riding judge who traveled to various cities judging the people. 3. They sought after the Lord for blessing and mourned the fact that they were not being blessed. 4. They had to rid themselves of their idols. 5. The Lord answered with a great thunder that confused the Philistines, and God gave Israel a great victory. 6. Stone of help
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The people of Israel lamented after the Lord, but revival could not come until they rid themselves of their idols. Is this possible in our lives as well? Idols are anything that comes between us and our full commitment and worship of the Lord. 2. Territory that had been lost to the Philistines was restored to Israel when they returned to the Lord. For us as believers, when we’re not walking with the Lord we lose ground. But when we return to the Lord we can recover spiritual blessings that were lost. Can you give examples of this?
CHALLENGE1. As we see the Lord at work in our lives, we should set up “Ebenezers” to honor Him for His help.
KEY VERSES* “Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and called its name Ebenezer, saying, ‘Thus far the LORD has helped us.’” 1 Samuel 7:12 * “Then the cities which the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel.” 1 Samuel 7:14
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Ark of the Lord Returns to Israel
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God shows mercy when people are ignorant of His laws. 2. God holds people accountable when they are not ignorant of His laws.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s trust God to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think.
QUESTIONS1. Who was in possession of the Ark of the Covenant when this chapter begins? 2. Why were they so frantic to send the Ark back to Israel? 3. Why did the Philistines send the Ark back with an offering of molded golden tumors and rats? 4. What specific instructions had God given in His law as to how the Ark of the Covenant was to be handled and carried? 5. Were the people of Beth Shemesh ignorant of God’s laws?
ANSWERS1. The Ark of the Covenant had been taken captive by the Philistines and put in the Temple of Dagon. 2. God showed His supremacy by causing the idol of Dagon to fall down before the Ark. Everywhere the Ark was moved for the next seven months, the Philistines were smitten with tumors. 3. The Philistines believed they could appease the angry gods by presenting an offering that represented their problem and showed how they were experiencing the judgment of the gods. 4. Only the priests and Levites were to be involved. The Ark must be carried on poles, and not handled by human hands. Anyone who disobeyed did so at the cost of their own life. 5. No. Beth Shemesh was a Levitical city, and the Levites were responsible to know God’s laws and communicate them to others.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Discuss how God shows mercy when people are ignorant of His laws. Should this truth be used as an excuse for sin? 2. When we come into God’s family we are expected to obey His Word. When we come to know His Word, then we are held accountable when we disobey His Word. Discuss how and why God must discipline His disobedient children.
CHALLENGE1. Samuel and other godly Israelites must have been amazed when the Ark of the Covenant was returned by itself without war. God is able to dramatically answer your prayers as well.
KEY VERSES* “Now the people of Beth Shemesh were reaping their wheat harvest in the valley; and they lifted their eyes and saw the ark, and rejoiced to see it.” 1 Samuel 6:13
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
God Makes His Presence and Power Known
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God will not be reduced to a “small g” god. 2. God will not be appeased like a “small g” god.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t prop up your idols.
QUESTIONS1. Review the background events of this chapter. 2. What were the five main cities of the Philistines? 3. What did the Philistines do with the captured Ark? 4. Who was Dagon? 5. What happened to the image of Dagon and what was the Philistines’ response?
ANSWERS1. In the previous chapter of 1 Samuel we saw Israel defeated and the Ark of God taken by the Philistines. 2. Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ekron, Gath, and Gaza 3. They put the Ark into the temple of their god, Dagon. 4. He was the false fish god or fertility god of the Philistines. The image of Dagon was a torso of a man with the tail of a fish. 5. During the night the image of Dagon fell over before the Ark of God. The Philistines propped Dagon up, but the next night it fell over again and was broken.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Many people today try to be polytheists like the Philistines. While they might acknowledge the God of Israel and Jesus of Nazareth, He is just one of many gods they recognize. Why is this status not acceptable to God? 2. The Philistines tried to move the Ark of the Covenant to a location that would appease the God of Israel. Discuss the truth that our God is not appeased like the pagan gods. Salvation is not attained by appeasement, but by propitiation.
CHALLENGE1. Idols are things that prevent us from making God #1 in our lives. God has ways of having our idols fall over before Him. Don’t prop up your idols.
KEY VERSES* “There was Dagon, fallen on its face to the earth before the ark of the LORD.” 1 Samuel 5:3 * “Send away the ark of the God of Israel, and let it go back to its own place.” 1 Samuel 5:11 * “But the hand of the LORD was heavy on the people of Ashdod, and He ravaged them and struck them with tumors.” 1 Samuel 5:6
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The Ark of the Covenant is Captured
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The Lord’s people are defeated when they turn away from God. 2. The Lord’s people are defeated when they play games with God.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s not give the name “Ichabod” to any of our churches or children!
QUESTIONS1. Who were the Philistines? 2. Summarize the battles in 1 Samuel 4. 3. How did Eli the high priest die? 4. What should the Israelites have done before going into the battle with the Philistines? 5. What does the name “Ichabod” mean?
ANSWERS1. The Philistines were Israel’s perennial enemy all during the days of Samuel, Saul, and David. They were people who had migrated to the land of Canaan from Crete and other islands and settled along the Mediterranean Coast – the Gaza Strip today. 2. Israel was defeated by the Philistines, and lost about 4,000 men in battle. Israel then regrouped and called for the Ark of the Covenant to be brought into the camp for the second battle. The Philistines defeated the Israelites in a second battle, in which 30,000 more died and the Ark was taken by the Philistines. 3. When he heard the news that the Ark had been taken and his sons were dead, he fell backwards and died of a broken neck. 4. They should have prayed to the Lord and sought his guidance about going to battle with the Philistines. Israel recognized Samuel as a prophet, but we don’t read of Israel consulting him for council before this battle. 5. Ichabod means “no glory.”
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Discuss: The Lord’s people are defeated when they turn away from God. Are you suffering defeat in your life right now? Is it possible that you have turned away from the Lord? 2. The Israelites tried to use the Ark of the Covenant as a good luck charm for their battle. God allowed His people to be defeated. Have you ever seen people play games with God, or done it yourself? What is the correct approach?
CHALLENGE1. Don’t let the glory and blessing of the Lord depart from your fellowship and family. Make sure you and your children have a growing heart for the Lord.
KEY VERSES* “Let us bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD from Shiloh to us, that when it comes among us it may save us from the hand of our enemies.” 1 Samuel 4:3 * “The ark of God was captured; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, died.” 1 Samuel 4:11 * “The glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured.” 1 Samuel 4:22
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The Lord Calls Samuel to the Office and Ministry of Prophet
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God can commune with children. 2. God can work through children.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Have you ever prayed, “Speak Lord, for your servant is listening”?
QUESTIONS1. What was Samuel’s unique role in the nation of Israel? 2. What is the basic difference between a prophet and a priest? 3. Were there prophets before Samuel? 4. What does 1 Samuel 3:1 mean when it says, “And the word of the LORD was rare in those days”? 5. What message did God give Samuel?
ANSWERS1. He is considered the last judge and the first prophet in Israel. 2. A prophet is one who speaks to the people for God, while a priest speaks to God for the people. 3. Yes, there were many men who spoke to the people for God before Samuel. But the office of prophet had not yet been established. Samuel was called by God to the prophetic office and began the great tradition of the prophets in Israel. 4. During the times of the judges the moral and spiritual conditions in Israel were so bad that people were not open to listening to the Lord and His Word. 5. God revealed His plans to punish Hophni and Phineas and remove Eli as high priest.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God spoke to Samuel and gave him an important message that impacted the priesthood. What is your attitude about children and their spiritual capabilities? Does your attitude about children line up with Scripture? 2. As God worked through young Samuel in Old Testament days, so God can work through children today. Do you know a story where a Christian child has brought the whole family to the Lord?
CHALLENGE1. When you pray to the Lord to meet your needs and help you, also be willing to listen and obey.
KEY VERSES* “And the word of the LORD was rare in those days; there was no widespread revelation.” 1 Samuel 3:1 * “Speak, LORD, for Your servant hears.” 1 Samuel 3:9 * “And all Israel from Dan to Beersheba knew that Samuel had been established as a prophet of the LORD.” 1 Samuel 3:20
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Hannah’s Song of Praise
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Hannah is an example of a faithful and dedicated servant. 2. Eli is an example of an unfaithful and undisciplined servant.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t dishonor the Lord by failing to discipline your children.
QUESTIONS1. What is the contrast in this chapter? 2. Where else is Scripture do we see a song of praise similar to Hannah’s? 3. How did Eli’s sons break God’s ceremonial and moral laws? 4. During what time period did these events take place? 5. What was the consequence for Eli’s unfaithfulness and the sins of his sons?
ANSWERS1. There is a contrast between a faithful mother, Hannah, and an unfaithful father, Eli. There is also a contrast between the godly son, Samuel, and the ungodly sons, Hophni and Phineas. 2. In Mary’s Magnificat, found in Luke 1 3. They broke God’s ceremonial laws by: a. taking more of the meat of the sacrifices than they were allowed (Leviticus 7) b. taking the meat of the sacrifices before the fat had been burned (Leviticus 3) c. They broke God’s moral laws by: d. despising the offering of the Lord e. committing fornication 4. This was in the dark days of the Judges, when the moral and spiritual condition of the nation of Israel was at a low. But even during this time, God had a godly remnant. 5. Eli learned that his sons, Hophni and Phineas, would die on the same day
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Review Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. Hannah praises the Lord for His holiness and omniscience. Hannah praises the Lord for His power in all areas of life. Hannah praises the Lord for His perfect and sovereign judgments. Do your prayers contain these praises? 2. Eli’s unfaithfulness and lack of discipline in his own life not only had negative effects on himself, but also his sons, and his descendants. Discuss the application for your life.
CHALLENGE1. Idle threats in disciplining your children actually dishonor the Lord. Have the strength of character to teach your children what is right, and you will both bring honor to the Lord.
KEY VERSES* “No one is holy like the LORD, For there is none besides You, Nor is there any rock like our God.” 1 Samuel 2:2 * “And the child Samuel grew in stature, and in favor both with the LORD and men.” 1 Samuel 2:26 * “Then I will raise up for Myself a faithful priest who shall do according to what is in My heart and in My mind. I will build him a sure house, and he shall walk before My anointed forever.” 1 Samuel 2:35
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Samuel's Birth and Dedication
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The prayers of godly mothers are answered in God’s way. 2. The children of godly mothers are blessed in God’s way.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Mothers, are you willing to give up your children to the Lord?
QUESTIONS1. What was Hannah’s vow before the Lord? 2. What is the meaning of Samuel’s name? 3. How does Isaiah 55:8-9 relate to this lesson? 4. Why is it important for us to continue to pray? 5. Did Hannah keep her vow to the Lord?
ANSWERS1. If the Lord would give her a son, she would present him to the Lord as a Nazirite. 2. Samuel means “heard of God.” 3. Sometimes God does not answer our prayers in the way we hope or expect; He will answer them His way. 4. As we continue to pray for our desires, the Lord continues to give us insight into His answer, and brings our heart in tune with His. 5. Yes, she “lent” Samuel to the Lord, as she vowed.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Discuss how God normally answers prayer. Don’t expect some out-of-the-ordinary, dramatic way for God to answer your prayers. Normally God controls and times natural events and circumstances to bring about answers to our prayers. How have you seen this in your life? 2. How should you as parents pray for God’s blessing on your children? The children of godly mothers are blessed in God’s way.
CHALLENGE1. Don’t be discouraged if God does not answer your prayers in your time and in your way. His way is best! James 5:16, “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”
KEY VERSES* “Elkanah knew Hannah his wife, and the LORD remembered her. So it came to pass in the process of time that Hannah conceived and bore a son, and called his name Samuel.” 1 Samuel 1:19-20 * “For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition which I asked of Him. Therefore I also have lent him to the LORD; as long as he lives he shall be lent to the LORD.” 1 Samuel 1:27-28
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The Account of Samuel’s Parents
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God works through all kinds of situations. 2. God works through all kinds of people.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Husbands, try to be sensitive to your wives’ feelings. 2. Don’t be surprised if people misread your actions.
QUESTIONS1. What time period does the book of 1 Samuel cover? 2. What transitional role did Samuel have in the nation of Israel? 3. Is polygamy condoned in the Bible? 4. What was the spiritual state of the nation of Israel at this point in history? 5. What did Hannah vow to do if God would give her a son?
ANSWERS1. 1 Samuel takes us from the time of the Judges of Israel to the time of the kings. 2. Samuel is often referred to as the last judge in Israel and the first prophet in Israel. 3. No. From the beginning, God’s design and direction for marriage was one man and one woman for life. However, polygamy was practiced and allowed in the Old Testament. 4. The fact that Israel did not fully drive out the Canaanites from the land during the Conquest under Joshua led to the dark days of the Judges. The course of the nation of Israel will be changed when Samuel turns the heart of the people back to the Lord. 5. She vowed to dedicate him to the service of the Lord.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Review the unlikely set of circumstances which God worked through to accomplish His purpose in 1 Samuel 1. How have you seen God work through difficult circumstances in your life to bring about good? 2. Eli misread Hannah’s fervent prayers and accused her of being drunk. Review the two pieces of advice when people misread your actions: Like Hannah, if you get a chance, you explain your actions. Don’t be surprised that this happens.
CHALLENGE1. Husbands, think of ways to be especially sensitive to your wives’ feelings this week.
KEY VERSES* “O LORD of hosts, if You will indeed look on the affliction of Your maidservant and… will give Your maidservant a male child, then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life.” 1 Samuel 1:11 * “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition which you have asked of Him.” 1 Samuel 1:17
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A Son is Born to Ruth and Boaz
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Children are a gift from the Lord. 2. God can turn mourning to joy.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Your link to Christ is more important than living happily ever after on earth. 2. You, too, can be a happy grandparent.
QUESTIONS1. Which books of the Bible are named after women? What is the overall theme? 2. How is God’s providence at work seen in the Book of Ruth? 3. What high compliment was given to Ruth by Naomi’s friends? 4. Read Psalm 127:3. Discuss. 5. What does Obed’s name mean? 6. How did the Lord turn Naomi’s mourning into joy? 7. Which is more important, your link to Christ or living happily ever after on earth?
ANSWERS1. Ruth and Esther. God’s providence at work. That is, the hand of God works behind the scenes and accomplishes His purposes through human history. In both books we see God guiding human history through natural events. 2. God brought Ruth, the Gentile from Moab, into the land of Israel and to the God of Israel through her mother-in law, Naomi. God gave Ruth to glean in the field of Boaz, the kind relative who was both able and willing to fulfill his responsibilities as kinsman redeemer. God opened the door for Boaz to marry. God enabled Ruth to conceive and bare a son who would become the grandfather of King David, and thus she became a vital link in the lineage of Christ. 3. That she was better than seven sons. Seven sons would be the supreme blessing to a Hebrew family. 4. Children are a gift from the Lord, because He is in control of all the factors and variables in conception. See Ruth 4:13, and also recall the story of Hannah (see 1 Samuel 1). 5. Servant 6. Note the difference between the Naomi of chapter 1 and chapter 4. 7. Your link to Christ, of course. You not only have a right relationship with Christ when He becomes your personal Savior, but you will live happily ever after with Him in heaven.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Do you consider your children a gift from the Lord? Re-read the biblical accounts of Ruth and Hannah. 2. Has God given you experiences where mourning was turned into joy? 3. If you are a grandparent, consider some of the ways that you can nourish your grandchildren in the faith.
CHALLENGE1. See Ruth 4:15a. Do you know someone who needs this encouragement?
KEY VERSES* “The Lord gave her conception, and she bore a son.” Ruth 4:13 * “Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without a close relative…may he be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age.” Ruth 4:14-15 * “They called his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse, the father of David.” Ruth 4:17
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Boaz is Able to be the Kinsman Redeemer
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The law cannot redeem anyone. 2. Christ can redeem everyone
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Remember the women in the genealogy of Christ.
QUESTIONS1. Naomi’s plan for getting Ruth and Boaz worked, but there was one problem to be resolved. What was it? 2. Describe the gate scene and its significance. 3. What was the outcome? 4. The other kinsman took off his sandal. What did this mean? 5. Who does the other kinsman represent in this story? 6. Why did God give the law? 7. Apart from Boaz, there was no hope for redemption or marriage. How does this relate to the church?
ANSWERS1. Another kinsman redeemer was a closer relative. He must first decline his responsibility before Boaz could claim Ruth as his wife. 2. In ancient days, the city gate was like the town hall, where official transactions were carried out. This is where Boaz took the matter of redeeming Elimelech’s property and taking Ruth to be his wife. Boaz stated his intentions officially before the elders of the city. 3. The other kinsman redeemer said that he would buy back the land, but he changed his mind when he realized that Ruth was in the picture. He not only would lose the land, but the money he paid out for it. He deferred to Boaz and the elders gave their blessing. 4. According to custom, he relinquished his right to walk on Elimelech’s land or to own it. Thus the door was open for Boaz to buy the land and to marry Ruth. 5. The law. The ten elders administering the legal transaction enhance the picture. God’s moral law is focused in the ten commandments. The law cannot be by-passed in redemption, but the law in itself cannot redeem. (Galatians 3:11). 6. The law is like a mirror, showing that your face is dirty, but the mirror cannot wash your face. In the same way, the law can show you that you are a sinner and need to be redeemed. No one is justified by the law, but it brings knowledge of sin and becomes our tutor to bring us to Christ. See Romans 3:20 and Galatians 3:24. 7. Apart from Christ, there is no hope for mankind. His atoning work was sufficient, unlimited and universal. We are Christ’s purchased possession (Ephesians 1:14); the church was purchased by His own blood (1 Peter 1:18-19).
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Do you know someone trying to get to heaven by keeping the ten commandments? How would you speak to him? How could you use this story? 2. Review the history of the women named in the genealogy of Christ: Tamar, Ruth, Rahab and Bathsheba. Think of God’s grace by including them in His Son’s genealogy.
CHALLENGE1. Does God’s longsuffering and grace encourage you? Does it encourage you to encourage other believers?
KEY VERSES* “I cannot redeem it…you redeem it.” Ruth 4:6 * “He took off his sandal…you are witnesses this day…we are witnesses.” Ruth 4:8-11
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Boaz is Willing to be the Kinsman Redeemer
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Waiting on God involves a time of testing. 2. Waiting on God assumes that God is working.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don’t give those who gossip an opportunity. 2. You will never lose out on the best deal if you wait on God.
QUESTIONS1. Did Boaz grudgingly accept his position as kinsman redeemer? 2. What was the kindness of Ruth commended by Boaz, both at the beginning and the end? 3. How do we see Boaz’ assurance of care for Naomi as well as for Ruth? 4. What does waiting on God involve? Relate it to this story. 5. Why is it that believers can wait on God without getting uptight?
ANSWERS1. No, not grudgingly but happily. See Ruth 3:10-11. 2. Her kindness in the beginning was to leave her homeland and care for Naomi. At the end, it was giving up the chance to marry a younger man, so that Naomi would be cared for, the property kept in the family, and an heir raised up for Elimelech. 3. See Ruth 3:17. 4. Waiting involves a time of testing. Boaz told Ruth that he was willing to marry her, but that there was a closer relative who had first option. Although Boaz and Ruth desired marriage, they waited and trusted God to work it out. 5. Because waiting on God assumes that He is working behind the scenes with their best interests in mind.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. What kindnesses have you shown to relatives who depend on you? 2. When you must wait for God to work, what is the quality of your waiting time? Are you anxious, trying to make things work out, or are you resting in the better plan of God?
CHALLENGE1. See Ruth 3:11b. Do you enjoy this kind of a reputation?
KEY VERSES* “Blessed are you of the Lord, my daughter! For you have shown more kindness at the end than at the beginning.” Ruth 3:10 * “All the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman.” Ruth 3:11 * “Sit still, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out.” Ruth 3:18
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Naomi Suggests a Plan for Boaz to Marry Ruth
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Generation gaps are not biblical.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Have you found rest at the feet of Jesus?
QUESTIONS1. Under Old Testament law, what were the responsibilities of a kinsman redeemer? 2. How does this apply to the story of Ruth? 3. Was Naomi’s plan to bring about the marriage of Boaz and Ruth a bit risque? 4. We have experienced generation gaps in our time. Is this biblical? 5. How is Boaz a picture of the Lord as he sleeps by the grain?
ANSWERS1. If a man died with no children, then the closest eligible relative was to marry the widow and raise up an heir for the man who had died. Also, he was to buy back or redeem the property of any extended family members who were impoverished or poor. 2. Boaz was the kinsman redeemer. The property of Naomi was in jeopardy, and Boaz had a responsibility to redeem it and keep it in the family of Elimelech. Furthermore, there was no heir in the family. Naomi and Ruth were both widows, and Naomi was past child bearing age, but Boaz might be able to marry Ruth. 3. Not according to the culture of their time. 4. No, as is evidenced by the mutual trust and respect between Naomi and Ruth. 5. Boaz made sure that the grain was threshed, winnowed and guarded. Grain from the field of Boaz could represent the word of God, food for our souls. As Boaz guarded the grain, our Lord guards His word and gives it to believers pure and without chaff.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Are you sensing a generation gap in your family? If so, what can you do to help bridge the gap? 2. Ruth found security and rest at the feet of Boaz. Mary of Bethany found rest at the feet of Jesus. Have you found rest at the feet of Jesus?
CHALLENGE1. Are you eating from the pure grain, the word of the Lord? Are you satisfied?
KEY VERSES* “Shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you?” Ruth 3:1 * “All that you say to me, I will do.” Ruth 3:5 * “Take your maidservant under your wing.” Ruth 3:9
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Naomi Informs Ruth that Boaz is a Close Relative
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Boaz is a picture of Christ in his kindness. 2. Boaz is a picture of Christ in his position.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let’s glean only in the field of Boaz.
QUESTIONS1. How much is an ephah (of barley)? This doesn’t seem like a lot for a full days work. Discuss. 2. What was Naomi’s reaction when she found out that Ruth had been gleaning in the field of Boaz? 3. What is another word for kinsman or relative in the Old Testament? What does it mean? 4. How is Boaz a picture of Christ in kindness? 5. How is Boaz a picture of Christ in position? 6. What were the three prerequisites for the kinsman redeemer?
ANSWERS1. About half a bushel. This would be half a bushel of pure grain. Actually it is quite a bit, considering that Ruth had threshed the stalks and winnowed it so the chaff was eliminated. 2. She was elated, exclaiming, ìBlessed be he of the Lord, who has not forsaken his kindness to the living and the dead!î Boaz was a close relative. Naomi realized that God had not forgotten them. 3. ìRedeemer.î The responsibility of the close kinsman was to help out and redeem what the impoverished relative had lost. 4. Both Naomi and Ruth spoke about his kindness (Ruth 2:13, 20). Boaz provided water and food for Ruth. He provided and personally passed the roasted grain to her, and ate with her. She ate and was satisfied. This is a picture of the communion that we enjoy with Christ in His kindness. He invites us to dine with Him. In His kindness, the Lord not only provides the spiritual food that we need, but He wants to have fellowship with us. 5. Boaz was a kinsman redeemer, and under the law the kinsman had several responsibilities. See Leviticus 25:25 and Deuteronomy 25:5-10. Christ is our kinsman redeemer. 6. a. he had to be a close relative b. he had to have the means to redeem c. he had to be willing. The Lord Jesus, as our kinsman redeemer fulfills these requisites perfectly. See Hebrews 2:14-15 and 1 Peter 1:18-19.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Have you experienced some unexpected sheaves and grain from the Lord that sweetened your life? 2. Do you know some unfulfilled and unsatisfied Christians? Where are they gleaning?
CHALLENGE1. Are you gleaning only in the field of Boaz? What does the Lord say to us in 1 John 2:15-17 about gleaning in fields other than His?
KEY VERSES* “Blessed be he of the Lord, who has not forsaken His kindness to the living and the dead!” Ruth 2:20
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Boaz Shows Kindness to Ruth
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The Bible teaches the Boaz method of encouragement.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Have you found refuge under the wings of the Almighty?
QUESTIONS1. List some of the characteristics of Boaz that portray a spiritual picture of Christ. 2. How did Ruth show her appreciation to Boaz for his kindness to her? 3. What is the Boaz method of encouragement? 4. How did Boaz use this method with Ruth? 5. Where did Ruth find refuge?
ANSWERS1. He was a man of great wealth (Hebrew translation, a man of valor). He would be known for his courage as a protector standing up for all that was rightfully his. Boaz was concerned for Ruth’s safety. He knew all about her, and that she was a foreigner, not of God’s covenant people. Our Lord has fought the enemy, Satan, and protects what is His (believers). We can entrust ourselves to His care. He knows all about us. Even though we are outside of God’s covenant promises, He has taken notice of us and has saved us. 2. See Ruth 2:10, noting Ruth’s humble response. 3. It is threefold: a. accept – take fellow believers as they are, with all their differences b. animate – give spirit and support to fellow believers c. assist – encourage and edify one another. 4. a. Ruth was a poor foreigner, totally different from Boaz in person and in culture; he was no respecter of persons b. after their conversation, she was stirred to glean; he commended her, giving encouragement to go on c. he didn’t tell her that she no longer had to glean, and he didn’t do the gleaning for her, but he assisted her; he made sure that she had food and water, and that his workmen would help by dropping some of the grain on purpose. 5. Read Ruth 2:12 – under the wings of the Almighty.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. How do you show your appreciation for what the Lord has done for you? Is it like Ruth’s response to Boaz’ kindness? 2. How have you experienced the Boaz method of encouragement? How have you used the Boaz method with others?
CHALLENGE1. Our Lord offers refuge from sin and its penalty to the non-Christian. To the Christian, He offers refuge from worries and anxieties. Have you found refuge under the wings of the Almighty?
KEY VERSES* “It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done…and how you have left your land and come to a people whom you did not know.” Ruth 2:11 * “The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.” Ruth 2:12 * “Let grain from the bundles fall purposely for her.” Ruth 2:16
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Naomi and Ruth Return to the Land of Israel
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Naomi’s life is a picture of the history of Israel. 2. Ruth’s commitment is a picture of the faith of the church.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Remember that the grass is not greener on the other side of the fence. 2. Remember, it’s not too late yet to return.
QUESTIONS1. Could the deaths of the three men have been a sign of God’s discipline? 2. How is Naomi’s life a picture of the history of Israel? 3. Discuss Naomi’s words in Ruth 1:20-21. 4. How is Ruth’s commitment a picture of the faith of the church?
ANSWERS1. Yes. They had gone to a foreign land with pagan gods, leaving the land God had given to them. Furthermore the two sons had married Moabite women, expressly forbidden by God. See Ezra 9:10-14 and Nehemiah 13:23ff. 2. It begins with Elimelech and Naomi together. Elimelech’s name means “my God is King,” and Naomi’s name means “pleasant”. In the beginning of Israel’s history, God was her king, but as Elimelech did not live up to his name, neither did Israel. As Elimelech and his family left God’s land of promise and went to a foreign land with its pagan gods, so Israel turned away from the living God to worship foreign gods and idols. As God brought in discipline and the hard times that Naomi suffered, so God has had to discipline the Jewish people. The nation of Israel has been set aside temporarily from the place of privilege and blessing. Because of the hard times, Naomi returned knowing that God had rightly afflicted her. In the same way, because of the hard times and the tribulation that is yet to come, the nation Israel, as a widow in need, will return to the land. This is even now happening, and Israel will one day return to the Lord, acknowledging the Messiah that they’ve rejected. Then will come a time of great blessing for Israel, even as it was for Naomi. 3. Naomi’s words show that she did not have the joy of the Lord. She went from Naomi (pleasant) to Mara (bitter). She knew that her bitter experience was the Lord’s discipline. 4. Ruth was a Gentile, outside of the covenant promises of God to Israel. In the same way, the faith of the church, which is primarily Gentile, is in the God of Israel, the God of the Bible. As Ruth turned her back on the gods of her surroundings and by faith turned to the true God, so it is with the true church around the world. As Ruth became the bride of Boaz, the kinsman redeemer, so the church is the bride of Christ.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Do you become bitter when God disciplines you? Think beyond the discipline to the reason for the discipline – God has blessing in mind for you. 2. Are there times when you get caught up in foreign gods, gods of this world (materialism and prestige)? God has much more in mind for you.
CHALLENGE1. Do you have a gnawing or dissatisfaction in your soul? Is the grass greener on the other side of the fence? The greener hills of Moab were not greener. Don’t lose out on God’s greater blessings for your life. Read Psalm 106:15.
KEY VERSES* “Naomi said, ‘Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord has brought me home again empty. The Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me.’” Ruth 1:20-21
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Naomi’s Decision to Return to Israel
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The right decision may not be an easy choice. 2. The right decision may involve considerable change.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Is your commitment more than words? 2. Is your commitment more than emotions?
QUESTIONS1. Did Naomi counsel her daughters-in-law wisely? 2. Is the right decision an easy choice? Consider the decisions of Orpah and Ruth. 3. There may be considerable change involved in the right decision. How did this apply to Ruth? 4. How did Orpah show her commitment to Naomi? How did Ruth show her commitment to Naomi? 5. How did Orpah and Ruth show their commitment by their emotions?
ANSWERS1. From a human point of view, some would say it was wise counsel, for widows had no means of support and they would be going to a strange land and culture. However, others would say that from a spiritual point of view, Naomi lacked faith because they all could have trusted in God. 2. Sometimes it is, but many times it isn’t. Orpah returned to her home and failed to receive the Lord’s blessing. Ruth chose to leave the security of her homeland, and she would have the additional burden of her aging mother-in-law. It was not an easy decision, but she followed the true God. 3. Ruth was leaving familiar surroundings and going into a totally new situation, a different country and culture. She would have to adapt and adjust to significant changes. 4. Orpah showed it by words by beginning the journey from Moab, but she returned to Moab and the gods of Moab. Ruth’s commitment was more than words, and she showed faith by going with Naomi. 5. Orpah kissed Naomi and wept. Ruth clung to her.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Recall some major decisions you’ve made. Were they easy? Did they involve change? Were you at peace with your decision? Did you see God’s hand at work in your life? 2. Is your commitment more than words? Do your actions confirm it?
CHALLENGE1. Is your commitment more than emotions? When you are with other Christians, it is easy to get caught up in the emotion of the moment, but what about times alone with the Lord? Are you fully caught up in Him?
KEY VERSES* "Ruth said, 'Entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God.'" Ruth 1:16
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Events Which Set the Stage for Ruth
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Believers should not make decisions based only on immediate circumstances. 2. Believers should not make decisions based only on human reasoning.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Remember, the decisions you make will make you.
QUESTIONS1. Describe the conditions of the nation Israel during this time (political, economic, spiritual). 2. What is the deeper meaning of famine in the Old Testament? 3. Why is the Book of Ruth considered an oasis in a desert? 4. Why shouldn’t believers make decisions based only on immediate circumstances? Relate this to Elimelech. 5. If believers shouldn’t make decisions based only on human reasoning, then how should they make decisions? Relate this to Elimelech.
ANSWERS1. The nation was ruled by judges, before the time of kings in Israel. There was famine in the land. The nation was in a moral decline because of its idolatry and immorality. 2. Famine was a sign of God’s discipline because of Israel’s idolatry and rebellion. See Deuteronomy 11:16-17 and chapter 28. 3. During the dark days of the judges, the people of Israel were continually departing from the Lord. Spiritual decline and moral decay characterized the nation. Ruth is a refreshing story in this scene, showing God’s sovereign grace at work, in spite of man’s idolatry and immorality. 4. Because there are apt to be long range negative consequences. God’s covenant said the people were to stay in the land regardless of circumstances. When the Lord’s will is sought, usually there is a waiting period. Elimelech acted in haste by going to Moab. 5. Believers should look to the Lord, asking for His will to be known in their lives. Human reasoning is not enough. Human reasoning cannot see the future. Elimelech did not foresee his death, nor the death of his sons, nor the three widows left bereft.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. In times of “famine” in your life, have you made quick decisions without due consideration of biblical principles? 2. Have you been lured into making quick decisions based on reasoning alone? What were the results? Remember, you cannot see into the future, but God can.
CHALLENGE1. The decisions you make will make you. This works in both a positive and a negative way. If you make decisions based only on circumstances and human reasoning, you will live with the sad consequences of a life lived out of the perfect will of God. Conversely, if you pray, seek God’s will and use biblical guidelines, your life will be molded by the results of these decisions
KEY VERSES* “There was a famine in the land. A certain man of Bethlehem, Judah, went to dwell in the country of Moab, he and his wife, Naomi and his two sons. Then Elimelech died. The sons took wives of the women of Moab, Orpah and Ruth. They dwelt there about ten years. Then the sons also died.” Ruth 1:1-5
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Wives for the Men of Benjamin
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Just because it's a vow before God, doesn't make it right. 2. Just because it works, doesn't make it right.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's not blame God for our problems.
QUESTIONS1. What happens when there is no central authority, as in the time of the judges? 2. The six hundred Benjamite men who survived the civil war had no wives. How did Israel "fix" this situation so the tribe wouldn't die out? 3. What were the two foolish vows made by the men of Israel? 4. Were these vows well thought out? 5. What did the Israelites do to get around their vows? 6. Israel's plan to get wives for the six hundred Benjamite men worked. But was it right?
ANSWERS1. Everyone does their own thing, and as a result there is spiritual and moral anarchy. 2. They massacred the inhabitants of Jabesh Gilead, sparing four hundred virgins. The other two hundred were obtained when the Israelites decided to let the wifeless Benjaminites catch their wives when the young maidens came out to dance at the annual feast held at Shiloh. 3. They vowed not to give any of their daughters to a Benjamite, and they vowed that whoever did not come up with them to the assembly of the Lord would be put to death. 4. No, they were made in the emotion of the moment. 5. They tried to find legal loopholes, making the vows seem even more ridiculous. 6. No. Although the tribe of Benjamin was preserved, it was done in ways that could hardly be justified.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The men of Israel made some foolish vows, and had to go through all kinds of legal loopholes to get out of them. Have foolish vows been made within your Christian ministries or churches? How could such situations be avoided? 2. Plans work, but it may be because God picked up the pieces. Christians must come before the Lord and wait for His direction. Are you prone to move on with your own plan apart from God's guidance? Wait on Him.
CHALLENGE1. When the tribe of Benjamin was almost wiped out, Israel wondered, "Why has this come to pass?" They failed to see their own wrong-doing in going outside the will of the Lord. Does this sound familiar? Many of our problems are of our own making, but the good news is that if we wait on God He will help us. He can pick up the pieces.
KEY VERSES* "Then the people came to the house of God, and remained there before God till evening. They lifted up their voices and wept bitterly." Judges 21:2 * "O Lord God, why has this come to pass?" Judges 21:3 * "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes." Judges 21:25
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Tribe of Benjamin is Defeated
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God's assistance is not necessarily a sign of God's approval. 2. God can suddenly change the course of events.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Can we say, "Better dead than depraved?"
QUESTIONS1. Why was there civil war between Israel and the tribe of Benjamin? 2. What did the Levite do when his concubine was violated? 3. Because of this act, how did Israel respond? 4. How was the story of Lot and Sodom and Gomorrah comparable to this story? What was different? 5. Were the tribes of Israel right in disciplining Benjamin? 6. Was Israel faultless in this incident? 7. Why did the Lord allow Israel to be defeated twice before the victory? 8. Benjamin thought they were getting away with their defiant attitude. What happened to make them realize they weren't getting away with it?
ANSWERS1. Because of the events recorded in Judges 19. 2. He cut her body into twelve pieces and sent a piece to each of the tribes in Israel. 3. Israel was outraged when they heard the story, so that they went to war in order to discipline Benjamin for allowing such events to happen. 4. Both involved the sin of homosexuality. The difference was that the men of Sodom and Gomorrah were not God's people, whereas the men of Gibeah were God's people. 5. Yes. 6. No, because it took such horrendous deeds to finally cause moral outrage in Israel. 7. To make Israel realize that they had to get right before the Lord before they could have victory. 8. God intervened and changed the course of events.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God assisted Israel in winning the war over Benjamin, but He certainly did not approve of all that they did. Can you recall cases where Christians and even churches seem to have a measure of success, but where God would not approve of their practices and ethics? The Israelites were harsh to the extreme in disciplining Benjamin, almost to the point of annihilation. Church leaders need to be sensitive to the kind of discipline they use in dealing with wrong-doing. Can discipline be carried too far in a Christian home? 2. The tribe of Benjamin thought they were getting away with their defiant attitude defending the sinful city of Gibeah. But God suddenly changed the course of events. Could this be true in our country today? God could bring another awakening to our land, but we must humble ourselves and pray.
CHALLENGE1. During the time of the judges everyone was doing what was right in their own eyes. But from God's point of view, there was gross moral sin and depravity. The tribe of Benjamin was desensitized to sin, perhaps thinking of homosexuality as simply sexual preference. Does this sound familiar? What will it take to awaken people to God's holiness? 2. Beware of viewing success as a sign of God's blessing.
KEY VERSES* "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and and heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 * "The Lord defeated Benjamin before Israel." Judges 20:35
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Israel Goes to War Against the Tribe of Benjamin
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Moral laxity results from a low view of the holiness of God. 2. Moral outrage should lead to correction by discipline.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Take heed lest you fall.
QUESTIONS1. Why did God include these terrible events in His word? 2. The Lord spoke to the tribes of Israel, telling them to go up to battle against the tribe of Benjamin. How did He speak to them? 3. What were the Urim and Thummim? 4. How could Israel have sunk to the low spiritual and moral level that we read about in Judges chapters 17-21? 5. How could Israel have sunk to the low spiritual and moral level that we read about in Judges chapters 17-21? 6. How many times is the ark of God mentioned in the Book of Judges? 7. Why was the ark outside the tabernacle (contrary to God's word)?
ANSWERS1. To show us all the sad things that really happen when people turn away from God's word and God's laws. 2. Perhaps God spoke through a priest or a prophet, or it may have been through the Urim and Thummim. 3. We don't know exactly, but from references in the law they were some kind of item, perhaps precious stones, that were put in the breastplate of the high priest, and they could be used by him to determine God's will when some major decision was called for. 4. Because they turned away from the Lord and His laws. 5. Because they had a low view of the holiness of God. 6. Only once. 7. It's likely that the Israelites viewed the ark as a good luck charm.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The Israelites had a low view of the holiness of God, evidenced by the things they did that were contrary to His law. Moral laxity soon followed. If you have a low view of the holiness of God it will show in the things you pursue. Check out your selection of reading materials and the TV programs you watch, for example. If you have a high view of the holiness of God, you will not have a problem of moral laxity in your life. 2. Drastic measures were taken before Israel woke up to their moral laxity and depravity. Only then was there moral outrage. When there is moral outrage, it should lead to correction by discipline. Do you see this in our country? The Lord will step in only when moral outrage, humility, confession and true repentance occur. Then there will be correction by discipline, and healing can follow.
CHALLENGE1. Read 1 Corinthians 10:11-12. "These things" refer to Old Testament events, but they are written for us through the ages. We should take heed to learn from them.
KEY VERSES* "Tell us, how did this wicked deed happen?" Judges 20:3 * "What is this wickedness that has occurred among you?" Judges 20:12 * "Then all the people went up and came to the house of God and wept. They sat there before the Lord and fasted that day until evening; and they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord. So they inquired of the Lord." Judges 20:26-27 * "These things were written for our admonition and correction. Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall." 1 Corinthians 10:11-12
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Levite and His Concubine
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God's people can sink to the moral level of unbelievers. 2. Society's moral values are not the same as God's moral standards
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Remember, we don't drift into godliness.
QUESTIONS1. Why did the Holy Spirit select the sad events toward the end of the Book of Judges to be recorded? 2. Do some of these conditions exist in our nation today? 3. What are some of the indications that the Levite had sunk to a low moral and spiritual level? 4. What was an indication of the low level of the men of Gibeah? 5. Why did the master of the house offer his daughter in place of his guest? 6. In Old Testament times, what was the penalty for adultery?
ANSWERS1. To show how low Israel had sunk spiritually and morally. It is a lesson for us, because it could happen to us today. 2. Unfortunately, yes. 3. The Levite was traveling with a concubine, when he was supposed to be a servant of the Lord and a model for the rest of Israel. Also, he was wandering about the land when he had been assigned to a city by God. 4. The men of Gibeah demanded homosexual relations, and they were God's people. It is more understandable in the days of Lot, for those men were pagans. (Not excusable, but more understandable). 5. In that day, society's values were to protect your guest, no matter what the cost. However, society's values are not the same as God's standards, then or now. 6. It was punishable by death.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Do you think that God's people cannot sink to the moral level of unbelievers? In our society today, Bible-toting men in high office justify immoral acts by saying they are not really immoral, and they are backed by a nation. We must be very careful to adhere to God's level of morality in our lives. 2. Society's moral values are not the same as God's moral standards. Let's not be brainwashed with society's values. Let's be sure that we get our moral standards from the Bible.
CHALLENGE1. Remember, we may drift into godlessness, but we don't drift into godliness. In the time of the judges, people turned away from the Lord and His laws and they went step by step downhill into ungodliness. The same can happen today in a society that cuts itself off from biblical standards. On the other hand, godliness must be maintained by a steady diet of reading God's word, lots of prayer, and fellowship with God's people.
KEY VERSES* "No such deed has been done or seen from the day that the children of Israel came up from the land of Egypt until this day. Consider it, confer, and speak up!" Judges 19:30 * "Whatever things were written before, were written for our learning." Romans 15:4 * "Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God...and do not be conformed to this world...prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12:1-2
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Migration of Dan to Northern Israel
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Eclectic religion is pleasing to man. 2. Eclectic religion is not pleasing to God
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Have you experienced the futility and emptiness of idolatry?
QUESTIONS1. "From Dan to Beersheba" describes what land? 2. Were there exceptions to the darkness of the days of the judges? 3. What is eclectic religion? 4. Did the tribe of Dan have an eclectic religion? Explain. 5. Is eclectic religion in our nation today?
ANSWERS1. All of the land of Israel from the far north to the far south of Israel. 2. Yes, Ruth is a good example. Also, when the people would return to the Lord under the leadership of a godly judge, there would be a time of blessing. 3. Eclectic religion is when you pick and choose doctrines and methods that you think are best from several religions. 4. Yes. They wanted to worship the Lord, but they wanted to do it their way. God's way was to set up no graven images; to have no priest other than the line of Aaron; and to set up no shrines. But the tribe of Dan wanted graven images like the pagans had; they wanted their own priest; and they wanted local shrines. 5. Very much so. For example, people don't want to hear about the doctrine and reality of hell, so they drop it from their statements and teaching. They don't like the thought of role distinction between men and women in the church, so an unbiblical doctrine is adopted
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. People pick and choose the doctrines that are pleasing to them. Eclectic religion is pleasing to man, but it is not pleasing to God. Consider some of the eclectic religious practices in the church today. 2. "There is a way that seems right to man, but its end is the way of death." (Proverbs 14:12). Such is the way of an eclectic religion - it seems right and it is pleasing to man, but it is not pleasing to God. The false worship by the tribe of Dan paved the way for the further idolatry of Jereboam I, who set up golden calf idols in the northern kingdom. Is eclectic religion creeping into your life in any way?
CHALLENGE1. When the tribe of Dan took away Micah's priest and idols, he said, "You have taken away...what more do I have?" Have you made an idol of your home or your work or your "things?" The gods of this life bring futility and emptiness. Have there been times in your life when you have experienced this emptiness? Rid yourself of the idols in your life and live in the fullness and joy of the Lord.
KEY VERSES* "There is a way that seems right to man, but its end is the way of death." Proverbs 14:12 * "Who brought you here? What are you doing in this place? What do you have here?" Judges 18:3 * "Do you know that there are in these houses idols?" Judges 18:14 * "You have taken away my gods...now what more do I have?" Judges 18:24
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Dark Days of the Judges
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Spiritual decline opens the door for syncretism. 2. Spiritual decline opens the door for self-seekers.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Beware of idols creeping into the church.
QUESTIONS1. The period of the judges lasted about 350 years, from the time of Samuel to the beginning of the monarchy. Why is this period sometimes called "the dark days of the judges?" 2. What does the name Micah mean? Did the Micah in this section live up to his name? 3. Define syncretism. 4. Give an example of syncretism during the time of the judges. 5. What leads to syncretism? 6. Give an example of syncretism today in our country. 7. Was the Levite in this story a God-honoring man? 8. What was the reaction of the people of Israel to Micah's "service" for the Lord?
ANSWERS1. After Joshua died, the children of Israel went downhill spiritually and morally. There was no moral authority, especially toward the end of this period, and "Everyone did that which was right in his own eyes." (v. 6) 2. The name means, "Who is like the Lord." This Micah did not live up to his name because he robbed his mother, then returned the silver when he heard her pronouncing a curse on the thief. Then he set up a shrine for his mother's idols, and consecrated one of his own sons as a priest for the shrine. All of these actions were contrary to the word of the Lord. 3. Syncretism is the fusion of two or more religious systems. It is a melting pot religion. 4. The people would fall away from following the Lord, and begin to serve foreign gods. Micah's mother desired the Lord's blessing on her son, but she made molten silver images. The shrine in this household was a mixture of beliefs and practices, yet they thought it was going to bring the Lord's blessing. 5. Spiritual decline. 6. The celebration of Christmas and the significance of Christ's birth is accompanied, or even outshined by Santa Claus and commercialism. The celebration of Easter and the significance of the cross is accompanied, or even superceded by the Easter bunny and candy eggs. 7. No. He broke God's law because he saw a good deal for himself. For room and board, good clothes, and a salary, he sold himself out and became a priest for Micah. Then he left Micah and become a priest for the tribe of Dan because there were even more benefits for himself. 8. Because of the spiritual decline in Israel, no one found any fault with it. "Everyone did what was right in his own eyes."
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Syncretism, a melting pot religion, happened many times in Israel's history when the people fell away from following the Lord and served foreign gods. Discuss the syncretism observed in our culture today. Remember that it is the result of spiritual decline. Beware the subtlety of syncretism. Be strong in biblical beliefs and practices. 2. The Levite in this story was a self-seeking opportunist, breaking God's law to benefit himself. There are self-seekers among Christians today. Beware being taken in by these people.
CHALLENGE1. Beware of idols creeping into the church. Beware of worshipping false gods. Even the sanctuary itself can be placed above worship of the Lord.
KEY VERSES* "I had wholly dedicated the silver from my hand to the Lord...to make a carved image and a molded image." Judges 17:3 * "Everyone did what was right in his own eyes." Judges 17:6
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Samson and Delilah; Samson is Victorious in His Death
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Loss of separation results in loss of spiritual power. 2. Loss of separation results in loss of spiritual success.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don't toy with temptation.
QUESTIONS1. Give two examples from this section of Scripture that illustrate Samson's great physical strength. 2. Who was Delilah, and how did she betray Samson? 3. Review the spiritual pictures of the following: a. the land of Canaan b. the Philistines c. the Jordan River d. Delilah 4. What is the key to blessing and power in this story? 5. What is God's way of entrance into the land?
ANSWERS1. The Philistines thought they had Samson trapped inside the city of Gaza, but Samson escaped by breaking down the massive gate of the city. Samson was blinded, but his final act was to call on God for strength to push down the pillars which supported the temple. 2. She was a Philistine prostitute who seduced Samson into giving away the secret of his strength. 3. a. the land of spiritual blessing and power for the Christian b. one of Satan's devices for keeping God's people defeated; they represent the worldly, fleshly or carnal principles at work in the land c. a picture of identifying with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection d. the attractive, alluring and seductive appeals of the world. 4. Separation from the ways of the world and separation unto God. 5. To follow the ark through the Jordan River (dead to self, alive unto God)
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. When Samson broke his Nazarite vow of separation to God, he lost his strength. Satan wants to seduce us into losing our separation unto the Lord. He wants to keep us defeated in the land of spiritual blessing, and when he wins, we lose out on blessing and power. Do you find your walk of faith being tested? Turn your back on the temptations of the world and ask the Lord for help in keeping close to Him. 2. Read Joshua 1:7-8. Samson was strong and courageous, but he did not observe to do all the will of God. Like Samson, you can have a lot going for you, but if you are not a separated Christian, you will never be a spiritually successful Christian. Separate yourself from the values and attitudes of this world system and be separated to the Lord.
CHALLENGE1. Don't toy with temptation. Avoid dabbling in sin, lest you fall.
KEY VERSES* "The enemy said, 'Entice him...that we may overpower him." Judges 16:5 * "She pestered him daily with her words and pressed him, so that his soul was vexed to death." Judges 16:16 * "Lord God, remember me, I pray! Strengthen me, I pray." Judges 16:28 * "Flee sexual immorality. Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit." 1 Corinthians 6:18 * "Flee youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness...with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." 2 Timothy 2:22
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
God Uses Samson to Reduce the Power of the Philistines
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Ungodly anger and revenge bring about great destruction. 2. Godly faith and courage bring about great victory.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. If you have a physical need, pray about it.
QUESTIONS1. Samson judged Israel for twenty years. Was this a peaceful time? 2. In Chapters 13 and 14, we read that the Spirit of the Lord came upon Samson. In Chapter 15, when did the Spirit of the Lord not come upon him? 3. How did Israel help Samson overcome the Philistines? 4. Was Samson a good witness for the Lord? 5. How many men did Samson kill with the jawbone of a donkey?
ANSWERS1. No, the Philistines were a very powerful enemy over Israel, and Samson had only begun to deliver Israel from their hand (13:5). 2. When he was acting in anger and with ungodly revenge (15:7). 3. For the most part, Israel was content to live as they were and did not rise up to fight with Samson. The people were apathetic and reluctant to resist the enemy. So, for the most part, Samson fought the Philistines alone. 4. Because of his disobedience to God's laws and to his Nazarite vows, and because of his wilfulness and uncontrolled anger, it is doubtful that he was a good witness for God. 5. One thousand men. (15:15-16)
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Samson disobeyed God's law by marrying a pagan Philistine woman. This disobedience resulted in further wrong-doing, uncontrolled anger and revenge. There is always bad fall-out from disobedience. There is always a negative consequence of uncontrolled anger. Have you found this to be true? Samson did many things in the name of Samson, not in the name of the Lord. Are you doing God's work in God's way to bring honor to His name? 2. Samson showed some acts of courage and faith because he knew the deliverance of God. What evidence is there in your life of acting on faith? Is your witness one of anger and ungodly revenge or one of faith and courage?
CHALLENGE1. Samson was extremely thirsty after his battle with the Philistines. When he asked God to meet his physical need, God met it in a most miraculous way. Do you ask God to meet your physical and spiritual needs? Remember, there is difference between physical wants and physical needs.
KEY VERSES* "Samson said, 'I will surely taken revenge on you...so he attacked them with a great slaughter... Samson said, 'This time I shall be blameless regarding the Philistines if I harm them!" Judges 15:3, 7-8 "Samson cried out to the Lord, 'Shall I now die of thirst?" Judges 15:18 "God split the hollow place...and water came out. Samson drank, and his spirit returned, and he revived." Judges 15:19
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
God Uses Samson Despite his Shortcomings
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Compromise can ruin a life of great potential 2. Compromise cannot ruin the law of God's providence.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don't use the Samson method of finding a spouse.
QUESTIONS1. Did Samson reach his full potential as a servant of God? 2. Was Samson a man of faith? 3. When Samson referred to his wife as a heifer, what did that imply? 4. Samson had godly parents who loved and worshipped the Lord, and gave Samson good and godly counsel. Was it their fault that Samson failed to live up to their expectations? 5. How did Samson compromise God's law and his Nazarite vows? 6. What was the riddle that Samson posed to the Philistines?
ANSWERS1. No. For all of his physical strength, he was a morally weak man. He could not control his passions and lusts. He had no self-control, and as a result he broke his Nazarite vows more than once. 2. Yes, Samson was a man of faith in spite of his glaring weakness of self-discipline. He is in the "Hall of Faith"l in Hebrews 11. 3. That she was an untamed and stubborn woman who had betrayed him. 4. No. See Lesson 21, Discuss / Consider #3. It was Samson himself who compromised God's law because he had no self-control, no self-discipline. 5. He compromised God's law by intermarrying with the Philistines. He compromised his Nazarite vow by drinking wine at the seven-day Philistine wedding; he touched a dead lion; and later he told the secret of his strength, allowing his hair to be cut. 6. It was a riddle based on his experience with the lion and the honey. (See Judges 14:8-9, 14, 18.)
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Compromising God's law can ruin a life of great potential. This was true in the case of Samson because of his wilfulness, and lack of self-control and self-discipline. What he wanted, he wanted, and he wanted it right then. What was true for Samson can be true for us. God blesses His people with gifts and talents, but compromise can cut short a life of potential for God. 2. Regardless of Samson's irreverent behavior, God used him. Does that mean it's OK to disobey the Lord and go against God's will if something good comes out of it? Does that mean that God's plans will be thwarted? Read Ephesians 1:11.
CHALLENGE1. Do you want a Samson-type marriage, or do you want a Scripture-type marriage? Christians who are considering marriage would do well to take time to build a Christ-honoring relationship.
KEY VERSES* "Samson saw a Philistine woman and said to his parents, 'Get her for me, for she pleases me well." Judges 14:1-3 * "The Spirit of the Lord came upon Samson." Judges 13:25; 14:6, 19; 15:14
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Birth of Samson
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The mother of Samson is a godly model for all wives. 2. The father of Samson is a godly model for all husbands.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's watch for God's wonders.
QUESTIONS1. Outline the first two stages of the seventh and last sin cycle in the Book of Judges. 2. Explain what is meant by the statement, "The seven sin cycles in the Book of Judges appear to spiral downward." 3. How was the birth of Samson announced? 4. What does it mean to be a Nazarite? What were the restrictions?
ANSWERS1. a. Rebellion- The children of Israel again did evil in the sight of the Lord (13:1) b. Retribution- The Lord allowed the Philistines to oppress Israel for forty years (13:1). 2. The sins of the people became greater and their response to the Lord was less. In this last cycle (Judges 13-16), we don't read of a response to the Lord. Also, the Philistines are not completely defeated. Samson only begins to deliver Israel out of the hands of the enemy (13:5). 3. His birth was announced to his mother by the Angel of the Lord (13:3). 4. A Nazarite was someone who was separated from the ways of the world and separated unto the Lord. Restrictions: could not drink wine, could not touch anything unclean, including anything dead, and could not cut his hair.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Samson's mother was a godly woman. Scripture indicates this because she submitted to the will of God. There was no complaining or bitterness about her barrenness or about the restrictions that would be placed on her son. She also submitted to her husband, respecting him and sharing everything with him. Read 1 Peter 3:5. If you are a wife, do you submit to your husband? If you are a mother, are you a godly mother? 2. Samson's father was a godly man. Scripture indicates that he, too, submitted to the will of God. When his wife told him of the Lord's visit he prayed for confirmation. He honored his wife by listening to her and by recognizing that God had spoken to her. Read 1 Peter 3:7. If you are a husband, do you honor your wife? If you are a father, are you a godly father? 3. Samson's parents were godly parents, but Samson did not turn out to be the most godly person. He broke all the requirements of his Nazarite vow. His parents must have cried many nights together over many of their son's willful actions. Godly parents, don't blame yourselves if your children are not going straight, even though you have brought them up in the admonition of the Lord. There are other factors.
CHALLENGE1. The Lord did a wondrous thing while Manoah and his wife looked on (13:19-20). That's the way the Lord is. However, we too often miss the wondrous things He does because we are not watching. Be sure to watch for God's wonders, especially watch for His return.
KEY VERSES* "The Angel of the Lord appeared to the woman (awesome)...and to Manoah." Judges 13:1, 6, 9, 11 * "The Angel of the Lord said, 'Why do you ask My name, seeing it is wonderful?'...He did a wondrous thing." Judges 13:18-20 * "His name will be called Wonderful..." Isaiah 9:6
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Jephthah Defeats Ephraim; Judges Ibzan, Elon and Abdon
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Believers should watch out for the sideline critic attitude. 2. Believers should watch out for the "I've-had-it" attitude. 3. Believers should watch out for the "Say Shibboleth" attitude.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's not be part of a circular firing squad.
QUESTIONS1. Name the four judges in this section. 2. Who was Samuel? 3. Why were all of the sons and daughters of the judges mentioned? 4. Jephthah made another rash decision in this lesson. What was it? 5. What was the linguistic test? 6. How can we avoid internal strife?
ANSWERS1. Jephthah, Ibzan, Elon and Abdon 2. Hannah's son, who was dedicated to the Lord. He is sometimes called the last judge and the first prophet in Israel. 3. To emphasize their community status and influence as well as their affluence. 4. Jephthah wanted revenge over the Ephraimites who didn't support him during the battle, so he cut off the fords, capturing all who tried to escape. Then he set up a linguistic test, killing everyone who couldn't pass it. 42,000 of his fellow Israelites were killed. 5. The Ephraimite was asked to say, "Shibboleth." If he said, "Sibboleth" he was killed with no mercy. 6. We should guard our attitude toward other Christians.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Ephraim had the sideline critic attitude. They should have come to fight the Ammonites, but they didn't. Then they had the nerve to criticize Jephthah from the sidelines. Avoid this attitude in yourself, in your family and in your church, lest there be internal strife. 2. Ephraim was wrong to criticize Jephthah, but Jephthah was wrong to take the "I've-had-it" attitude. When the line is crossed, gifted people may leave the ministry, husbands may leave their wives, and all kinds of problems result. How much better it is to work it out. Civil war can often be avoided with a soft answer. 3. Some people have been judged as unspiritual because they couldn't say "Shibboleth," or because they do a few things differently in worship. Let's not let our Shibboleths cause internal strife. Don't set up unbiblical tests of spirituality.
CHALLENGE1. When Christians shoot at each other instead of shooting at the enemy, civil war results. Internal strife only damages each other and the work of the Lord. Don't let this happen in your church. Read Galatians 5:15.
KEY VERSES* "Why didn't you call us to fight with you? We will burn your house down on you with fire!" "If you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!" Galatians 5:15 * "When I called you, you didn't come. Why are you fighting me?" Judges 12:1-3 * "Say 'Shibboleth." Judges 12:5-6 * "If you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!" Galatians 5:15
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Jephthah’s Foolish Vow and Victory Over the Ammonites
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Sometimes God superimposes His strength on great natural strengths. 2. Sometimes God gives victory in spite of grave human mistakes.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's not make rash and foolish vows.
QUESTIONS1. What foolish vow did Jephthah make? 2. Did Jephthah actually sacrifice his daughter? List arguments for and against. 3. Give two examples of timid believers on which God superimposed His strength. 4. Give two examples of strong believers on which God superimposed His strength. 5. Does the Lord take away natural abilities and strengths and substitute His strength?
ANSWERS1. If he was given the victory in battle, he promised to offer the first thing that came out of the doors of his house when he returned. Sadly, he watched his only child, a daughter, come out to meet him when he returned from victory. 2. Arguments for: .a. it's the most normal interpretation of the text as a burnt offering is the same Hebrew word used for blood sacrifices b. when he made the vow, he could have been thinking of an animal coming out c. since he had been living near the border, perhaps he had become desensitized to the pagan practices around him, or he may have been ignorant of the Mosaic law against human sacrifice. Arguments against: a. verse 31 may be translated to mean that the sacrifice would be dedicated to the Lord, if a person came out b. verses 37-39 seem to indicate that Jephthah's daughter expected to be dedicated to the Lord to a life of celibacy, not sacrifice c. he had made the vow after the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, thus it doesn't seem logical. 3. Gideon and TimothyJephthah and Paul 4. No, rather He superimposes His strength on believers.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Are you a timid person? God can superimpose His strength on yours. Are you a strong person? God can superimpose His strength on yours. In either case, He can use you mightily in His kingdom. Just dedicate yourself to Him and to His service and great things will be accomplished for His glory. 2. Have you ever made a foolish vow? God in no way condones such a vow, but He can give victory in spite of it. You don't have to be distressed by these foolish mistakes. Just as the Lord gave victory in battle, he can turn your foolishness to victory when you turn the issue over to Him. Then resolve to pray more to avoid making a mistake like that again.
CHALLENGE1. Be committed and dedicated in your life, your abilities, your work and your finances. Walk closely to the Lord to avoid making rash and foolish mistakes.
KEY VERSES* "Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jephthah." Judges 11:29 * "Jephthah made a vow to the Lord." Judges 11:30 * "The Lord gave victory." Judges 11:32
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Jephthah
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Great potential can be lost because of prejudice. 2. God honors the truth, not "spin."
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Do you suffer as a result of someone else's mistakes?
QUESTIONS1. Why did Jephthah flee from Gilead? 2. How is Jephthah a picture of the Ruler to come, the perfect Judge? 3. How do we know from Scripture that Jephthah was a man of great potential? 4. What is the meaning of "spin?" 5. Who was telling the truth and who doing a "spin" on the truth?
ANSWERS1. His brothers drove him out because he was the son of a harlot. 2. Both Jephthah and Jesus were despised and cast out by their own people, even though neither had done anything wrong. Both were accused of an illegitimate birth. As the leaders were humbled, they asked Jephthah to rule over them, so will Israel one day be humbled to the point where they recognize Christ as King. Jephthah was a judge and a ruler, pointing to the Ruler to come, the perfect Judge. 3. It is stated that he was a man of valor. He was a leader, banding together a group of worthless men to go out raiding with him, and he was asked by the elders to come and fight for them. He was diplomatic in the use of his knowledge of history and logic with the Ammonites. Also, he is included in the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews 11:32. 4. "Spin" means to take the facts and manipulate them to suit yourself and push your own agenda, which is not necessarily the truth. 5. Jephthah was telling the truth. The king of Ammon put a spin on the facts.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Jephthah's potential was nearly lost because of the prejudice of his brothers. Are you aware of Christian men and women whose potential is not being used because of prejudice? Is there something you can do about it? 2. God honored the truth of Jephthah. This is a day of spinmeisters, but they will ultimately answer to the truth. Unfortunately, spin can take place in Christian circles as well as in politics. Again, is there something that you can do when you discern spin?
CHALLENGE1. Jephthah suffered because of another's mistake, and he had to flee and live as an outcast. How did he react? He never took revenge. Furthermore, he honored the Lord and made himself available for the Lord's service. What is your reaction when you suffer as a result of someone else's mistake? Never take revenge, because that belongs to the Lord; He will repay.
KEY VERSES* "Jephthah was a mighty man of valor." Judges 11:1 * "Jephthah spoke all his words before the Lord." Judges 11:11 * "I have not sinned against you, but you wronged me...May the Lord, the Judge, render judgment this day between us." Judges 11:27 * "The Spirit of the Lord came upon Jephthah." Judges 11:29 * "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord." Romans 12:19
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Tola and Jair
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. There is a limit to God's patience. 2. There is no limit to God's love.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don't make God your last resort.
QUESTIONS1. Tola was a judge of Israel. From whom or what did he save Israel? 2. Who was Jair? How do we know that he was well-to-do? 3. Outline the sixth sin cycle according to the five stages: rebellion, retribution, repentance, restoration, rest. 4. What triggered God's mercy?
ANSWERS1. Tola likely saved Israel from civil strife that followed Abimelech's terrible kingship.
2. Jair was a Giliadite who judged Israel for twenty two years. He had thirty sons who rode on thirty donkeys, and they also had thirty towns.
3. a. Israel turned away from the Lord, again doing evil in the sight of the Lord (10:6)
b. The Lord brought in a foreign power; He sold Israel into the hands of the Philistines and the people of Ammon, who harassed and oppressed them (10:7)
c. The people repented and cried out to the Lord, saying, "We have sinned against You because we have forsaken our God and served the Baals." (10:10)
d. The Lord raised up Jephthah to deliver them (11:29)
e. The land was at rest under the judge and the people were once again following the Lord until the death of the judge (12:7).
4. The children of Israel acknowledged their sin, put away the foreign gods, and served the Lord.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. There are a number of times when God's patience with His people ran out. See Judges 10:14; Genesis 6:3; 1 Peter 3:20; and Luke 13:34. This could be true for the unbeliever, and also for the believer. For the unbeliever, "Now is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthian 6:2). Don't delay in receiving Christ as your Savior. As for the believer, there are many ways in which the patience of God is tried, mostly by self-centeredness rather than God-centeredness. Are you trying the patience of God? 2. "God's soul could no longer endure the misery of Israel" (10:16). O, the mercy and love of God! The children of Israel acknowledged their sin, put away the foreign gods and served the Lord. When people truly repent from their sin, there's no limit to God's love. Remember the story of the prodigal (Luke 15). How are you letting people know about the love and mercy of God?
CHALLENGE1. Don't make God your last resort. People today try every other god and everything else before God. Only when disaster comes, some finally turn to the Lord. Christ is waiting to receive those who repent. See Jeremiah 2:13. What is your source of water?
KEY VERSES* "Israel cried out to the Lord, 'We have sinned against You, because we have forsaken our God and served the Baals!" Judges 10:10 * "Go and cry out to the gods which you have chosen; let them deliver you in your time of distress." Judges 10:14 * "They put away the foreign gods from among them and served the Lord. And His soul could no longer endure the misery of Israel." Judges 10:16 * "My people have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, and hewn themselves broken cisterns that can hold no water." Jeremiah 2:13
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Abimelech’s Treachery
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God repays the wickedness of men. 2. God allows evil to repay evil.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Remember, your spirituality is not inherited by your children.
QUESTIONS1. Who was Abimelech? What position did he fill? Was he a proven leader? 2. Who was Gaal? Who was Zebel? What part did they play in the falling out between Abimelech and the inhabitants of Shechem? 3. What was the result of the confrontation between Abimelech and the inhabitants of Shechem? 4. What was the story about the tower of Shechem? 5. Why did Abimelech sow salt over the city? 6. What was Jotham's parable about? 7. How was Abimelech's evil repaid?
ANSWERS1. He was the son of Gideon. He became a judge and a ruler. No, he did not lead his people well. 2. Gael became a judge, and he challenged Abimelech. Zebel was one of Abimelech's men in the government of Shechem, who informed Abimelech of this challenge. 3. Abimelech attacked and defeated Gaal, then he attacked Shechem and defeated it, killing the people and demolishing the city. 4. Abimelech attacked and defeated Gaal, then he attacked Shechem and defeated it, killing the people and demolishing the city. 5. It made the ground barren for any would-be rebuilders. 6. It was about the people of Shechem unwisely choosing a "bramble," the least of the trees (Abimelech), to be their ruler. 7. A woman dropped a millstone on his head, then he asked his armor bearer to pierce him with a sword, so it would not be said that a woman killed him.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God repaid the wickedness of Abimelech, and God repaid the wickedness of the men of Shechem. Does it seem to you like evil is going unchecked around you? Never doubt that God will ultimately repay evil for evil. Read Romans 12:19 and Revelation 20:11-15. 2. God allows evil to repay evil. Note the account of Abimelech and the Shechemites. Recount some of the evil kings, both in sacred and secular history, who were brought down by other evil kings. God has designed this moral universe so that evil eventually backfires. This principle can also operate in the state, the church and the home.
CHALLENGE1. Contrast the spirituality and morality of Gideon and Abimelech. Gideon was a spiritual man, a good man. His son, however, was evil. Spiritual gifts are given to individuals as determined by God, but spirituality comes from walking with the Lord. Parents, teachers and Christian leaders are given the charge to raise children in the instruction of the Lord. But the children have the responsibility to obey that instruction.
KEY VERSES* "All the evil of the men of Shechem God returned on their own heads." Judges 9:57 * "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord." Romans 12:19 * "I saw a great white throne...and I saw the dead standing before God, and books were opened. The dead were judged according to their works." Revelation 20:11-15
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Abimelech's Three-Year Rule Over Israel
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Bad choices result in bad fall-out. 2. God controls even the evil spirits.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Watch out for smooth talking brambles.
QUESTIONS1. The last days of Gideon were not his best days as judge in Israel. Refer back to 8:22-32, what were some the things that Gideon did wrong at this point? 2. Abimelech was such an evil ruler that many do not even consider him as one of the judges of Israel. What did he do that was so wrong? 3. Who was Jotham? What did he do on the top of Mt. Gerizim? 4. Does God control evil spirits? Can you back this up scripturally? Does God control Satan? 5. Does God allow evil? How does He use it?
ANSWERS1. He wrongly set up a golden ephod in his home town and it became an idol and a snare for Israel and Gideon's household. He had departed from God's word and took in many wives and concubines. 2. Abimelech sweet-talked his relatives into campaigning for him to become king. As soon as he became king, he had all of his half-brothers killed - seventy of them. 3. Jotham was the youngest son among the half-brothers of Abimelech, who escaped. He pronounced a curse against Abimelech in the form of a parable. 4. Yes. See Judges 9:23. Yes. 5. Yes. He uses it for His own purposes.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The Israelites made Abimelech their king, and they lived to regret that decision. How many times have you made decisions without first consulting the Lord and making sure that your decision was in His will? As a result, has there been bad fall-out? 2. The Bible teaches that God controls everything. He is sovereign. Yet, so many times we see evil in this world, and wonder. Do you believe that God works all things after the counsel of His will? Believe it, even when things seem otherwise.
CHALLENGE1. When selecting church leaders, look for a proven record, not smooth talk. There are church leaders who, like Abimelech, have sweet-talked their way into positions of leadership to the detriment of the congregation. Watch out for smooth-talking brambles.
KEY VERSES* "Jotham stood on Mount Gerizim, and lifted his voice and cried out, 'Listen to me, you men of Shechem that God may listen to you...all the trees said to the bramble, 'Come and reign over us!" Judges 9:7, 14 * "God sent a spirit of ill will between Abimelech and the men of Shechem, and the men dealt treacherously with him." Judges 9:23 * Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap." Galatians 6:7 * "In Him we are predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will." Ephesians 1:11
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Gideon's Temptations of Power and Wealth
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Mature believers are not immune to temptation. 2. Mature believers are not immune to failure.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Beware of golden earrings! 2. Beware of golden ephods.
QUESTIONS1. After Gideon's victory over the Midianites, the people asked him to be their king. Why did Gideon refuse? 2. What did Gideon ask the Israelites for? 3. What did Gideon do with this "gift?" 4. Was this appropriate? 5. What was the evidence that Gideon, though refusing the kingship, lived like a king?
ANSWERS1. Because he knew that God's intention was not for the Israelites to have a king like the other nations. God was their King. 2. Part of the plunder that had been taken from the Midianites. He asked for the golden earrings. 3. He made an ephod out of the gold given to him. An ephod was one of the outer garments worn by the high priest under the breast plate. 4. No. Only priests were to be involved with ephods; they were not to be made of gold, and they were to be kept only in the tabernacle. 5. He created a harem for himself with many wives. He named one of his sons Abimelech, which means, "My father, a king."
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Gideon had faithfully led God's people against the enemy. He had persevered in the face of disappointments, but he gave in to temptation. This happened after a great victory, as it so often does. Why? After a victory, people are apt to become overconfident, thinking they can do things in their own strength. Have you found this to be true in your life? Have you wondered why you gave in to temptation? 2. Gideon resisted the temptation to be king, but he yielded to other temptations. Notice the areas in which he was tempted, and yielded -money, power, sex. Too many mature believers have fallen in these areas. How do you handle temptations?
CHALLENGE1. Gideon said that he didn't want much, just a little. When we yield just a little, a door opens. Beware of golden earrings, just a little thing. 2. Gideon would have been the last one to believe that his golden ephod would become an idol in Israel and a snare to himself and his household. But it happened. Gideon had departed from the word of God, and in so doing he brought disaster in his community and in his household. Beware of golden ephods in your life. Stay firmly in the word of God.
KEY VERSES* "Gideon said, 'I will not rule over you; the Lord shall rule over you." Judges 8:23 * "Gideon said, 'I would like to make a request of you...your golden earrings." Judges 8:24 * "Then Gideon made an ephod and set it up in his city. And all Israel played the harlot with it. It became a snare to Gideon and to his house." Judges 8:27 * "Those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare." 1 Tim 6:9
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Gideon Pursues the Defeated Midianites
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Christian leaders must press on even though there are many disappointments. 2. Christian leaders must discipline others, even though it is not very pleasant.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Remember, a soft answer turns away wrath.
QUESTIONS1. Gideon and his army were outnumbered more than 450:1, and without conventional weapons. Yet they overwhelmingly defeated the Midianites. How was this possible? 2. List some of the disappointments that Gideon had along the way while he was doing the Lord's work in pursuing the Midianites. 3. What did Gideon ask of the people of Succoth and Penuel? 4. What did Gideon do about some of these disappointments when the battle was won?
ANSWERS1. Because the Lord was with Gideon, and Gideon followed the Lord's commands. With God all things are possible - then and today. 2. He faced internal bickering when time was of the essence in pursuit of the enemy, he was disappointed because of lack of support, his efforts were mocked by the very people he was trying to save, and he was exhausted. 3. He asked for bread, but they refused to give it to him. 4. He took action against those who were disloyal and had thwarted the battle.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Although Gideon had several disappointments along the way while he was doing the Lord's work, he pressed on. All of us have experienced some disappointments when we've been working for the Lord. Recall a time in your life when this was the case. It's easy to give up and say that it's not worth the effort. But how does this affect the work of the Lord? The right response is to press on. 2. Leadership has its demands, and one of them includes disciplining those who are disobedient and disloyal to the work of the Lord. Gideon saw this as his responsibility and handled it. Have you have been in such a situation? Sometimes it is easier to ignore the problem, but that doesn't solve anything. This is particularly true well in the home. There are parents, even Christian parents, who neglect disciplining their children, but they are neglecting a biblical principle.
CHALLENGE1. "A soft answer turns away wrath." (Proverbs 15:1) There are times when harsh discipline is necessary, but there are times when it is more diplomatic and more effective to give a soft answer. When this is done emotional tensions are often avoided. Have you found this to be true?
KEY VERSES* "What was I able to do in comparison with you?' Then their anger toward him subsided when he said that." Judges 8:3 * "A soft answer turns away wrath." Proverbs 15:1 * "Gideon and the men who were with him were exhausted, but still in pursuit." Judges 8:4 * "Gideon took the elders of the city...and he taught the men..." Judges 8:16
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Gideon’s Victory Over the Midianites
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Victory in spiritual warfare demands broken clay jars. 2. Victory in spiritual warfare demands clear sounding trumpets.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Can you say, "Look at me and do likewise?"
QUESTIONS1. Gideon had divided his small army of three hundred men into three companies of one hundred men each, and he had sent them out to surround the camp of the Midianites. What did each man carry with him? 2. What was the reason for carrying these items rather than traditional weapons? 3. What made the Midianites believe that they were being attacked by a huge army? 4. Why did the Midianites attack each other? 5. The Midianite army with the Amalekites numbered 135,000, whereas Gideon's army numbered three hundred. How then could Israel defeat the enemy with the odds stacked against them at 450:1? Is this really a true story? 6. This account represents spiritual truths for Christians. What is represented by a) the land of Canaan, b) the battle itself, c) the Midianites and the Amalekites, and d) Gideon's weapons?
ANSWERS1. A trumpet, a torch, and an empty clay jar to cover the smoldering torch. 2. So God could show His power to defeat the enemies of Israel, apart from weapons of war. Then Israel would know for sure that it was God who fought for them. 3. In the ancient world of warfare, a trumpet sound meant there was a commander with a number of troops under him, and the lights held high made the Midianites think that a great army was attacking them. 4. When Gideon gave the signal at the beginning of the middle watch, about 10:00 at night, the guards who were going back to their tents were thought to be the invading Israelites by the Midianites who were just waking up to the sound from the trumpets. Thus they began to kill off each other in the confusion. 5. Yes, it is a true story, recounted to let both Israel and the enemy know the power of God. 6. a) the land of blessing for the Christian, b) the enemy operating in the land of blessing, c) the things of the world and the lusts of the flesh which oppress the Christian in the land of blessing, and d) God's method of victory in spiritual warfare.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Read 2 Corinthians 4:5-12. The method of victory in spiritual warfare is represented in the weapons used by Gideon. The clay jars are Christians; the treasure within is the life and light of Christ. To reveal Christ, the jars must be broken. We must die to self so Christ may be seen. Is your clay jar broken so that Christ might be revealed in your life? 2. Gideon's trumpets sounded out loud and clear. These trumpets or rams' horns could be heard for miles around, and the purpose was to let the enemy know that the sword of the Lord and of Gideon had arrived. The trumpets represent the clear and certain testimony of believers. What about your Christian testimony? Is it a clear and certain sound?
CHALLENGE1. Gideon said, "Look at me and do likewise." (7:17). Can you say, "Do as I do and follow my example?" Apply this to different areas of your life, and in different situations.
KEY VERSES* "Gideon said, 'Look at me and do likewise." Judges 7:17 * "It is God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us." 2 Corinthians 4:6-7
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Gideon's Faith is Tested
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God tests the strength of a believer's faith. 2. God tolerates the weakness of a believer's faith.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Your actions speak louder than your words.
QUESTIONS1. Why did the Lord drastically reduce the size of Gideon's army? 2. Were the Midianites and Amalekites really as numerous as locusts, and their camels without number, as the sand by the seashore? (7:12) 3. How many men did Gideon start out with in his army? How many did he end with? 4. How was the number of men in the army reduced? 5. What was the interpretation of the Midianite's dream? (7:13-14) 6. What was Gideon's reaction when he overheard the telling of the dream?
ANSWERS1. So that Israel could not claim glory for itself instead of for the Lord, saying, "My own hand has saved me." (7:2) 2. No. This is a figure of speech known as hyperbole, purposeful exaggeration for the purpose of emphasis. 3. He started with 32,000, and ended with 300. 4. First, anyone who was afraid could leave, at which point 22,000 departed, leaving 10,000. Gideon was instructed by the Lord to take the 10,000 to the water. Everyone who lapped by putting his hand to his mouth was set apart, and everyone who got down on his knees to drink was set apart. Three hundred men lapped. These were the ones selected to remain in the Lord's army. 5. Gideon was represented by a loaf of barley bread (barley bread was the bread of the poor) tumbling into camp, striking the tent of Midian. Midian was delivered into the hand of Gideon. 6. He worshiped, and returned to the camp of Israel with confidence that the Lord would bring victory. It also showed the humble faith of Gideon.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Gideon had the strength of his faith tested, particularly when the odds against him increased. Have you had your faith tested in overwhelming odds? How did your faith hold up? 2. Gideon did not have a strong faith, but he had a genuine faith. God honored this faith by encouraging Gideon and by strengthening him. How strong is your faith? Have you recognized ways in which the Lord has encouraged you to go on?
CHALLENGE1. The water test was passed by what the soldiers did rather than what they said. God wanted men who were ready to move out and fight the good faith based on their actions. Are you committed to the Lord to the point of action? Are you a member of the 300 Club?
KEY VERSES* "The Lord said to Gideon, 'The people who are with you are too many for Me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel claim glory for itself against Me, saying, 'My own hand has saved me." Judges 7:2 * "I will not give My glory to another." Isaiah 48:11 * "By the three hundred men who lapped I will save you." Judges 7:7 * "Gideon worshipped." Judges 7:15
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Gideon Sets Out the Fleece and Asks God for a Sign
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Setting out fleeces is evidence of a weak faith. 2. Setting out fleeces comes close to testing God. 3. Setting out fleeces leaves room for many doubts.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's not confuse living by fleece with living by faith.
QUESTIONS1. Review the fourth sin cycle of Israel here in Judges 6. Take it through the five stages: rebellion, retribution, repentance, restoration, rest. 2. Gideon had passed the test of faith in destroying the altar to Baal and by raising an altar to the Lord. But before Gideon was willing to plunge into battle, he wanted to make sure the Lord would be with him and give him the victory. What was the sign that Gideon proposed to the Lord? 3. How did the Lord respond to Gideon's fleece? 4. Should we make a practice of setting out fleeces like Gideon did?
ANSWERS1. Stage 1) rebellion - Israel once again wandered away from the Lord (6:1), 2) retribution - God allowed the Midianites to come in and plunder the land for seven years (6:1-2), 3) repentance - the Israelites cried out to the Lord because of the oppression (6:7), 4) restoration - the Lord raised up Gideon to deliver the nation from the hands of the Midianites (6:8), and 5) rest - the country was quiet for forty years in the days of Gideon ( 8:28). 2. First he put a fleece of wool on the threshing floor, saying to the Lord, "If there is dew on the fleece only, and it is dry on the ground, then I know You will save Israel as you have said." Then he reversed the plan, asking for a dry fleece and a wet ground. 3. He honored Gideon's request for a sign. 4. No, even though God has answered at times. Review the doctrinal points and application in this lesson, and relate them to the discuss / consider / challenge portions.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God had told Gideon that victory over the Midianites was already assured. Gideon asking for signs at this point was evidence of a weak rather than a strong faith. Have you asked for signs from God? Perhaps they were honored, or perhaps not. In any case, a mature Christian who is secure with God's promises, need not ask for signs. Rather, he will simply trust God and take Him at His word. 2. Are you testing God by asking Him to do something on your terms? Are you trying to put God in a box of your own making? This is not a true test of what God will do for you. It leaves room for too many doubts.
CHALLENGE1. Setting out fleeces by definition is asking God to do something miraculous on your terms. This is not the same as asking God to confirm your step of faith on His terms and in His time.
KEY VERSES* "The Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon." Judges 6:34 * "Gideon said to God, 'If it is as You have said, then...I shall know." Judges 6:36-37 * "We walk by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Gideon Passes a Test of Faith
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God tests a believer's faith close to home. 2. God tests a believer's faith close to the heart.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's be more than iconoclasts. 2. Let's find a way to obey.
QUESTIONS1. Before Gideon could go out and defeat the Midianites in the strength of the Lord, he had to be tested. What was the test, and what was its purpose? 2. Who was Baal? What was he supposed to do? 3. Describe an altar to Baal. Who was Ashteroth? 4. Why did the men of the city want to kill Gideon? 5. What was Gideon's father's response to this act of Gideon's? 6. Define the word, "idol." 7. Define the word, "iconoclast."
ANSWERS1. The test was to tear down the altar of Baal that his father had built, and to replace it with an altar to the Lord. Its purpose was to test Gideon's faith. 2. Baal was the prominent pagan god of the land. He supposedly controlled the weather, and thus the fertility and productivity of the land. 3. The altar was constructed of large stone, sometimes measuring 15 ft. across and 5 ft. high. The wooden image of Ashteroth represented the female counterpart of Baal. 4. Gideon had torn down the altar to Baal, which was used by all the town. 5. He stood up for Gideon, saying, "If Baal is a god, he can defend himself." 6. An idol is anything that takes the place of God in a believer's life. 7. An iconoclast is one who destroys religious images or icons.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Before Gideon could go out and prove his faith by fighting, he had to prove his faith at home. This involved being a faithful witness before his own family and before his own community. Was this easy for Gideon? How has your faith been tested close to home? Has it been easy for you? 2. If God is not first in a believer's heart, to a certain extent that believer is involved in idolatry. Is there something ahead of God on your priority list? Every idol must go if the believer is to be successful in spiritual warfare. Baals must be torn down and replaced by an altar to God.
CHALLENGE1. Gideon was more than an iconoclast. He not only tore down the alter to Baal, but he replaced it with an altar to the Lord. Are you only an iconoclast, having rid your life of idols? Or are you building up altars to the Lord, filling your life with the things of God? Try this test: How is 1) your prayer life? 2) your depth of Bible study? 3) your thought life? We are to cast down everything that exalts itself above God. See 2 Corinthians 10:5, Colossians 3:2, and Romans 12:2. 2. When Gideon realized the improbability of tearing down the altar of Baal in broad daylight, he did it at night. He found a way to obey. Are you finding ways to obey in sharing your faith with others? Are you afraid? Be like Gideon - find a way to obey.
KEY VERSES* "Tear down the altar of Baal and build an altar to the Lord." Judges 6:25-26 * "Keep yourselves from idols." 1 John 5:21
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
God Calls Gideon to Defeat the Midianites
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. True faith believes and struggles. 2. True faith believes and worships.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Your worship is not a waste.
QUESTIONS1. Who was the Angel of the Lord? 2. What was Gideon doing when the Lord called him? Why was Gideon doing it "differently?" 3. When God called Gideon, what was His implied promise to him? 4. List some of Gideon's questions to the Lord. 5. Did the Lord answer all of Gideon's questions? 6. In this section of Scripture, what sign did God give to Gideon to assure him that it was He who was speaking?
ANSWERS1. It is believed that this was the Lord Himself, the preincarnate Son of God. This is supported in vs. 22-23 where Gideon knew that he had seen the Lord Himself, and thought he was going to die, because he had seen God. 2. Gideon was threshing wheat in a wine press. Normally, wheat is threshed out in the open so the wind can blow the chaff away. Gideon didn't want the Midianites to see him and rob his small amount of grain. 3. "The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!" (v. 12) Actually, there were two promises: 1) the Lord would be with Gideon in his call and 2) the Lord would make of him a mighty man of valor. 4. Why have all these things happened to us? Where are Your miracles of which our fathers spoke? Have You forsaken us and delivered us to the enemy? How can I be called to save Israel when my clan is the weakest, and I'm the least in my father's house? 5. No, but He assured him of victory. 6. When Gideon brought out meat and unleavened bread, laid them on a rock, and poured out the broth, the Angel of the Lord touched them with his staff, and fire rose out of the rock and consumed them.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Gideon had a faith that believed and struggled. He had honest questions about what was going on, even wondering if the Lord had forsaken him; he had doubts and fears. But Gideon did not lose faith, nor did he reject or deny the Lord. Do you have doubts, fears and questions? Do you seek signs from the Lord to affirm His presence and care? 2. Gideon prepared and presented an offering to the Lord. It was an act of worship, and it cost him something. In this time of famine, Gideon gave a very substantial offering, not from surplus, but of survival supplies. It involved real sacrifice. How can you sacrificially worship?
CHALLENGE1. The Angel of the Lord consumed Gideon's sacrificial offering. A disciple called it a waste when Mary anointed the Lord with a costly ointment. Perhaps there are those pointing fingers of accusation at you for "wasting" your life, squandering your money on the underprivileged, or spending time in prayer. Remember, when you give to the Lord, it is never a waste in His eyes.
KEY VERSES* "The Angel of the Lord said to Gideon, 'The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!" Judges 6:12 * "Mary took a pound of very costly oil and anointed the feet of Jesus. And the house was filled with the fragrance. But one of His disciples said, 'Why this waste?" John 12:3-5
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Deborah and Barak's Victory Song
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God keeps records of the faithful. 2. God keeps records of the unfaithful.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don't forget to sing hymns.
QUESTIONS1. The Lord raised up Deborah to serve Israel. In what capacities did she serve? 2. Who mustered the troops of Israel together to fight the oppressive army of the Canaanites? 3. What is the style of the song in this chapter? It's more than just a victory song, it is a song of ___________________________________. 4. What was the condition in Israel under the oppression of the Canaanites? 5. Describe the "natural" conditions in this battle that led to the defeat of the Canaanites.
ANSWERS1. As prophetess, judge, and motivator 2. Barak, the commander of the army of Israel. 3. Hebrew poetry. Thanksgiving and praise to the Lord, savoring God's victory over His enemy. 4. The highways were deserted and village life ceased 5. The earth trembled, the heavens poured out water, mountains gushed forth, stars fought, torrents of water swept the enemy away - events of nature coordinated by God Himself to defeat the Canaanites.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Review the list of the faithful in Judges 5:13-15, 18. God kept a record of all these who showed faith and courage, going into battle against overwhelming odds. See Malachi 3:16. Who is in God's book of remembrance? Are you? See also Philippians 4:3 and Revelation 21:27. 2. Review the list of the unfaithful in Judges 5:15-17, 23. Why were they cursed by the Lord? They ignored their responsibility to the Lord; they were concerned but not committed; they were interested but not enlisted; they remained at a distance; they wanted to stay in their place of security and comfort. The Israelites had many excuses, and were too content with the status quo. Do you make excuses? Are you too content to step out and serve the Lord?
CHALLENGE1. Does your heart sing spontaneously when you pause to consider the heavens and the earth? Do you break into song (and even tears) when the angels praise Him for the soul of a repentant sinner? See Colossians 3:16.
KEY VERSES* "When the people willingly offer themselves, bless the Lord!" Judges 5:2 * "Lord, when You marched the earth trembled..." Judges 5:4 * "Recount the righteous acts of the Lord..." Judges 5:11 * "Those who feared the Lord spoke one to another, and the Lord listened and heard them; a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and who meditate on His name. 'They shall be Mine,' says the Lord, 'On the day that I make them My jewels." Malachi 3:16-17 * "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your heart to the Lord." Colossians 3:16
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Deborah and Barak Defeat the Canaanites
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Satan raises up Jabins and Siseras to defeat God's people. 2. God raises up Deborahs and Jaels to help His people
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. When we do our part, God does His part.
QUESTIONS1. Outline the third sin cycle in the Book of Judges, as found in this section. Review the five stages in Lesson 3. 2. Who was Deborah? Who was Barak? 3. Who was Sisera? How was he killed? 4. Who was Jabin? What is the significance of the historical picture here? 5. What is the spiritual picture represented by Jabin and Sisera?
ANSWERS1. a. Sin\Rebellion- After Ehud died, the children of Israel once again did evil in the sight of the Lord (v.1) b. Servitude\Retribution- The Lord allowed the Canaanites to oppress His people with military might for twenty years, under the rule of King Jabin (vs.2-3) c. Supplication\Repentance- Israel cried out to the Lord (v.3) d. Salvation\Restoration- The Lord raised up Deborah and Barak to restore Israel (vs.4-9) e. Silence\Rest- Israel had rest for forty years (5:31). 2. Deborah was a woman of God, a judge, a mother in Israel, and a prophetess to whom the Lord revealed the defeat of the Canaanites. Barak was the commander of the army of Israel. 3. Sisera was the commanding general of the Canaanite army. When his army fell, he fled on foot to the tent of Jael, who drove a tent peg into his temple (4:15-21). 4. Jabin was the Canaanite king who reigned in Hazor, a stronghold in the north of Israel. This is the same Hazor which was conquered under Joshua (Joshua 11:10-11), more than 100 years before this time. 5. Jabin and Sisera were Canaanites, enemies of Israel. Hazor was the same area conquered earlier. This illustrates that enemies who have been defeated can rise again. Christians who have experienced victory over certain sins find that these sins may come back more than once.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Satan likes to keep God's people defeated in the land of blessing. Have you experienced victory over certain sins only to find that they return? Check out such sins as doubt, bitterness, uncontrolled anger, pride, jealousy, and sexual sins. As Christians, we must always practice the biblical principles of victory by putting on all of the spiritual armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17), because we can be sure that Satan will raise up his Jabins and Siseras to try to defeat God's people. 2. When Israel cried out to the Lord, Deborah was there. Jael was not an Israelite, but she was used of God to help His people. Even as God raised up Deborah and Jael to help His people, there are those today whom God can use. Perhaps you have been helped by a Deborah or a Jael, or perhaps you are a Deborah or a Jael to be used of God to help others.
CHALLENGE1. Deborah and Barak planned and prepared for battle, and God brought victory. Are you using the talents and gifts that God has given to you to the best of your ability? When we do our part, God does His part.
KEY VERSES* "Deborah said to Barak, 'Has not the Lord God commanded us to prepare for battle? He replied, 'If you will go with me, then I will go." Judges 4:6-8 * "Deborah said to Barak, 'Up! For this is the day in which the Lord has delivered the enemy into your hand. Has not the Lord gone out before you?" Judges 4:14
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Ehud and Shamgar
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The flesh not held in check is not a pleasant picture. 2. Cutting off the flesh is not a pleasant picture.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. God can use you regardless of your differences. 2. God can use you regardless of your background.
QUESTIONS1. How many judges were there in Israel during the time of the judges? 2. Name the two judges listed in this section of the Book of Judges. 3. Name the enemy in this sin cycle. How did they oppress Israel? How did they oppress them? 4. Who was the judge designated by Israel to head up the delegation to bring tribute to the oppressor? How did this judge view this assignment? 5. What happened with the judge after he killed the king?
ANSWERS1. Anywhere between twelve and fifteen, depending on who is counted. If Barak is counted along with Deborah, if Abimelech (an evil ruler) is counted, and if you don't count Samuel, then there are 15. Remember that some of the judges overlapped in time, and judged in different parts of the land. 2. Ehud and Shamgar 3. Moab. Eighteen years. Requiring them to pay tribute in gold or silver to Moab. 4. Ehud. He saw this occasion as an opportunity to overthrow the ungodly power of King Eglon of Moab. 5. After Ehud killed King Eglon, he escaped to the mountains of Ephraim and rallied the troops of Israel to defeat the Moabites.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Even as Israel was commanded to drive out the enemy in order to enjoy the blessings of the land, so we have to drive out the enemy in order to enjoy our spiritual blessings in Christ. Satan is our enemy and he uses the world, the flesh, and even demonic forces to keep us defeated and to keep us from enjoying the spiritual blessings God has given us. King Eglon was a picture of the flesh not held in check. Do you have a problem in keeping your flesh checked? Do you have a problem in losing ground that has already been conquered? 2. How do you cut off the flesh? By applying the word of God, the two-edged sword of the Scripture to your life. See Hebrews 4:12. Are you cutting off the flesh?
CHALLENGE1. How are you different from other believers? Remember, God can use these differences for His glory. 2. What is your spiritual heritage? Even if you were not raised in a Christian home, you have been given a spiritual parent by the Lord. Whatever your background, God can use you. Make full use of Christian mentors and role models in your life. Then be one.
KEY VERSES* "The children of Israel again did evil in the sight of the Lord. So the Lord strengthened the king of Moab against them...But when they cried out to the Lord, He raised up a deliverer...When Moab was subdued under the hand of Israel, the land had rest for eighy years." Judges 3:12, 15, 30 * "The word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword..." Hebrews 4:12
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The First Judge of Israel: Othniel
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God uses a believer's mistakes along with His wisdom for testing and training. 2. God uses a believer's experience along with His power for victory and deliverance.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Beware of creeping compromise.
QUESTIONS1. The period of the judges, about 350 years in Israel's history, extended from the time of the death of ____________ until the time of ____________, the first king of Israel. 2. Who is most likely the author of the Book of Judges? 3. Who was the first judge in Israel? 4. Review the sin cycle from the previous lesson. Now outline the sin cycle found in Judges 3:7-11.
ANSWERS1. Joshua, Saul 2. Samuel, who is sometimes considered the last of the judges and the first of the prophets in Israel. 3. Othniel, the nephew of Caleb. 4. a. the sin stage or the wandering away from the Lord stage, where they did evil in the sight of the Lord and served other gods (v.7) b. the discipline stage, when the Lord was angered and sold them into the hands of the king of Mesopotamia (v.8) c. the repentance stage, when they cried out to the Lord (v.9) d. the salvation or restoration stage, when a deliverer was raised up (Othniel), and the Lord delivered the enemy into their hand (vs.9-10) e. the rest stage, when the land had rest for 40 years, when there was a measure of moral reform and return to the Lord (v.11).
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. When God brought Israel into the land of promise at the time of the conquest, Israel's responsibility was to completely cleanse the land of all enemies. God did not want any pockets or enclaves of the enemy left around to influence His people with their idolatrous or immoral practices, but they did not obey. However, God did not give up and reject His people even then, but He continued to work patiently with them, providing deliverance and rest. Furthermore, He used their failures to test them and train them. The lesson here? God uses a believer's mistakes along with His wisdom for testing and training. How has God used your failures and mistakes to test and train you? 2. Othniel was already battle-hardened when he was successful in war. Apply this to your life. How has God used your experience along with His power for victory and deliverance?
CHALLENGE1. Beware of creeping compromise. The children of Israel did not become idol worshippers overnight. As they lived with the enemy, they gradually compromised with them. Today, this is often true in churches, families, and in individuals. Beware of creeping compromise in your life.
KEY VERSES* "The Lord left nations that He might test Israel by them...this was so they might be taught to know war...and to see whether they would obey the commandments of the Lord." Judges 3:1-4 * "...the children of Israel dwelt among the 'ites.' They intermarried and served their gods. So the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord. They forgot the Lord their God, and served other gods." Judges 3:5-7 * "When the children of Israel cried out to the Lord, He raised up a deliverer...and they had rest." Judges 3:9, 11
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Spiritual Background on the Time of the Judges
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. There are five steps in the sin cycles of Israel: a. the people would sin by rebelling against the Lord b. the Lord would allow one of the enemies of Israel to gain control and to plunder and oppress Israel c. the people would cry out to the Lord because of the oppression and the Lord would hear d. the Lord would raise up a judge and deliver the people from the enemy e. there would be a measure of rest and revival as long as that judge lived. 2. There can be sin cycles in the lives of believers.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Have you had a first-generation experience?
QUESTIONS1. Why did God command the tribes of Israel to fully conquer and occupy their respective territories? 2. Why did God permit surrounding nations to come in and oppress Israel? 3. What did Israel do when the angel of the Lord confronted them? 4. List or describe the five steps of Israel's sin cycles during the time of the judges. 5. What happened when a judge died?
ANSWERS1. God did not want His people to be contaminated by the idolatry and immorality of the Canaanites. 2. Because of Israel's disobedience to obey His commands. 3. They wept and they sacrificed to the Lord. (See Judges 2:4-5.) 4. a. the people would sin by rebelling against the Lord b. the Lord would allow one of the enemies of Israel to gain control and to plunder and oppress Israel c. the people would cry out to the Lord because of the oppression and the Lord would hear d. the Lord would raise up a judge and deliver the people from the enemy e. there would be a measure of rest and revival as long as that judge was alive. Alliterated: a. sin or rebellion b. servitude or retribution c. supplication or repentance d. salvation or restoration e. silence or rest. 5. The people would revert to their old ways of rebellion and disobedience.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The sin cycle that Israel went through again and again in the time of the judges can also take place in the life of a believer. Consider these references, stage by stage in the sin cycle: James 1:14-15; Hebrews 12:5-11; 1 John 1:9; 1 Peter 5:6-7; Matthew 11:28-30. 2. The Lord will bring discipline into our lives. If we repent and cry out to the Lord, He brings deliverance and restoration to our lives, and there is rest. Have you experienced the Lord's discipline? How have you responded?
CHALLENGE1. Have you had a first-generation experience in seeing the great works the Lord has done? You can have a first-generation experience if you are willing to step out in faith.
KEY VERSES* "You shall make no covenant with the inhabitants of this land; you shall tear down their altars. But you have not obeyed My voice. Therefore they shall be thorns in your side, and their gods shall be a snare to you." Judges 2:2-3 * "The people served the Lord all the days of Joshua and the elders, who had seen all the great works of the Lord. Another generation arose who did not know the Lord nor the work He had done for Israel. Then the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord...they forsook the Lord and served other gods." Judges 2:7, 10-13 * "I will no longer drive out before them any of the nations which were left...so that through them I may test Israel, whether they will keep the ways of the Lord, to walk in them...or not." Judges 2:21-22
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Israel's Partial Obedience Results in Enemy Resistance
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Partial obedience results in plenty of bad fall-out. 2. Partial obedience results in pockets of enemy resistance.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don't let the enemy come back to hurt you.
QUESTIONS1. Who were the "ites" listed here? Refer to Genesis 10:15-18. 2. God had commanded Israel to completely drive out all the Canaanites from the land. Did they obey God's command? 3. Why did God command Israel to utterly destroy the inhabitants of the land? 4. Refer to Judges 1:19. Was God's power limited because of the iron chariots? What was the problem here? 5. Why was Israel only partially successful in taking over the land? Is this same principle true today? 6. What do the following represent in the Christians' spiritual warfare? a) the land of Canaan, b) the land of battles, c) the inhabitants of Canaan.
ANSWERS1. They were the table of nations that descended from Noah. In particular, the Canaanites were descended from Canaan, Noah's grandson. 2. No, and they reaped some bitter consequences as a result. 3. The Canaanites were wicked people, and God did not want His people contaminated and polluted with their gross immorality and idolatry. 4. Of course not. What is iron compared to omnipotence? The problem was that Judah did not fully trust and obey the Lord. 5. They were only partially successful because they were only partially obedient to the Lord. This is still true today, and there will be bad fall-out when there is only partial obedience to Him. 6. a) spiritual blessings that God has promised us, b) spiritual battles, and c) the enemies in our land of spiritual blessing.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The key to Israel's partial success was that they were only partially obedient. In their failure to fully drive out the enemy, they became enmeshed in the idolatry and immorality of the Canaanites. God did not fail; the people failed. What a sad story. Is the same is true today? If you only partially obey with your body, heart and mind, will there be bad fall-out? How? 2. Partial obedience results in pockets of enemy resistance. Does Satan have any pockets of resistance in your life? If so, identify them. What is the key to victory? Are you enjoying the blessings God has promised to you? Do you have victory over the enemy? Read Ephesians 6:10-17.
CHALLENGE1. Don't let the enemy come back to hurt you. Read Judges 1:23-26 (concerning the two pagan cities of Luz). Unjudged sin comes back to hurt you. David ruthlessly dealt with the sins of the flesh. Are you dealing ruthlessly with the sins of your flesh?
KEY VERSES* "...the Lord was with Judah. They drove out the mountaineers, but they could not drive out the inhabitants of the lowland, because they had chariots of iron." Judges 1:19 * "...they gave Hebron to Caleb...then he expelled from there the three sons of Anak." Judges 1:20 * "...when Israel was strong...they did not completely drive out the Canaanites...so they continued to dwell among them." Judges 1:28-29
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Judah Settles its Tribal Land
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Godly beginnings do not guarantee godly endings. 2. Godly individuals do not guarantee godly communities.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don't think your hardened, unbelieving neighbor doesn't know when God is speaking. 2. Don't be reluctant to ask God for specific blessings.
QUESTIONS1. The Book of Judges covers the history of the nation of Israel from the time of the _______________ to the time of the _______________. It covers a period of about _____ years. 2. After the conquest, the land was divided up among the twelve tribes of Israel. What was the responsibility given by God to each tribe? 3. What was the result of Israel's failure in meeting her given responsibility? 4. Who was Adoni-Bezek? What happened to him? 5. Refer to Joshua 14:6-15. How was this promise to Caleb fulfilled in the Judges account?
ANSWERS1. conquest, kings, 350 2. To drive out the enemy that still existed in its allotted territory. 3. Israel's enemies, both inside and outside the land were able to control Israel, rather than Israel controlling them. 4. Adoni-Bezek was a great warrior and an enemy of Israel, who at one time cut off the thumbs and big toes of seventy kings. In turn, Judah cut off his thumbs and big toes. Why? It made a man helpless in military action, for he couldn't handle a weapon and he couldn't run. 5. Judges 1:10 records the death of three giants living in Hebron. Caleb at last possessed his inheritance.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Compare the first and last verses of the Book of Judges. The time of the judges began in a godly way, but it didn't end that way. The problem? They failed to ask God for guidance. a. Review the beginnings of our country. What is the situation today? b. Is there a parallel in some of our churches? c. Recall the time when you received Christ. Have you been faithful in asking God for His guidance in your life? 2. Two individuals, Caleb and Othniel, were faithful in obedience and they were conquerors. In turn, they affected others, regardless of the ungodliness of the nation. Are you, by your faithfulness, obedience and courage positively affecting others?
CHALLENGE1. Adoni-Bezek was a hardened man, but he knew that God was speaking. Can you identify some people within your spheres of influence who are like this? Are you tuned in to them so you can speak of Christ in their time of need? 2. Achsah asked her father, Caleb, for a specific blessing. She specifically asked for springs of water. Recall times when you asked your heavenly Father for a specific blessing. Are you asking for spiritual springs of water? Remember, God loves to bless His children to make them more productive and fruitful in the land of spiritual blessing.
KEY VERSES* "...the children of Israel asked the Lord... ...everyone did what was right in his own eyes." Judges 1:1; 21:25 * "...the Lord delivered the enemy into their hand..." Judges 1:4 * "Achsah said to Caleb, 'Give me a blessing...give me springs of water." Judges 1:15
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Death and Burial of Joseph, Joshua and Eleazar the Priest
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Faithful believers publicize their commitment to the Lord. 2. Faithful believers appreciate their title to the land.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Are you a hen or a hog when it comes to commitment?
QUESTIONS1. What did the memorial at Shechem commemorate? 2. Was the "sanctuary of the Lord" the same as the tabernacle? 3. What is meant by the "sanctuary of the Lord?" 4. What other events may have taken place here at Shechem? 5. When did Joshua die in relation to the renewal of the covenant? How old was he at his death?
ANSWERS1. The call and ratification of covenant renewal between the Lord and His people Israel. 2. No. The sanctuary was at Shechem and the tabernacle was located at Shiloh. 3. It seems to refer to the location at Shechem as special and set apart as a holy place. 4. Abraham built an altar to the Lord when he entered the land of Canaan about 700 years earlier; Jacob built an altar about 500 years prior to this time when he came safely to Shechem in the land of Canaan. 5. Joshua died soon after his farewell address and covenant renewal. He was 110.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Review the words of Joshua to the people when he set up the memorial marker of the covenant commitment (Joshua 24:27). This stone was to be a public testimony of the verbal commitment that the people had made to the Lord. Have you set up a memorial marker, so to speak, to publicize your commitment to the Lord? In other words, do you have a public testimony that you are a believer? 2. Joshua, Joseph and Eleazar appreciated their title to the land the Lord had given them. Are you established in the land? Have you realized and experienced the joy of the Lord in your life? Have you appropriated the spiritual blessing of your eternal security in Christ? Have you seen Satan's tactics overthrown because of your prayers? True fulfillment, blessing and satisfaction comes only by appreciating your title to the land the Lord has given to you.
CHALLENGE1. Are you a hen or a hog when it comes to commitment? Are you just playing church and making token contributions or is your commitment real, total and good for the long haul? Have you committed yourself as a living sacrifice? (Romans 12:1-2) Read and be challenged by Hebrews 12:1 and Philippians 3:13-14.
KEY VERSES* "This stone will be a witness, for it has heard all the words the Lord spoke to us. It will be a witness to you, lest you deny your God." (Joshua 24:27) * "Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him and who had experienced everything the Lord had done for Israel." (Joshua 24:31)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Joshua's Farewell Address, Part Two
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Faithful believers cannot serve two masters. 2. Faithful believers cannot lead two lives.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. You must surrender before you can serve.
QUESTIONS1. Where was Israel gathered to hear Joshua's farewell address? 2. What was the purpose of this farewell address? 3. What do a number of commentaries have to say concerning this farewell address? 4. How does this relate to the situation in Joshua 24? 5. What is the structure of this treaty?
ANSWERS1. At Shechem in the central part of Canaan. 2. To say goodbye to the people as Joshua retired from public life, and to have the people renew their covenant with the Lord. 3. They point out that Joshua 24 is written in the typical form of an ancient treaty between a king and his vassals. 4. It is a covenant treaty between the Lord, as King, and His people as His servants. 5. Preamble (24:1-2) Historical prologue of what the king has done for his servants (24:2-13) Stipulations of the covenant (24:14-24) Writing and depositing of the agreement (24:25-28)
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Joshua challenged Israel to put away their idols and cult objects. You cannot serve God and other gods at the same time. See Joshua 24:19, Matthew 6:24 and 1 Timothy 6:6-11. Are you fully serving the Lord? 2. Joshua said, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15) Several times the people answered, "We will serve the Lord." The difference was that Joshua surrendered his life to the Lord and the people hadn't. Israel's commitment was short lived. What is your commitment? Does your life show it? What choices do you make when no one else is watching?
CHALLENGE1. Have you totally surrendered your life to the Lord? Are there still idols in your life? (An idol is anything that takes your focus away from the Lord). Read and memorize Romans 12:1-2. Have you come to that place in your life? Can you say with Joshua, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord?"
KEY VERSES* Fear the Lord and serve Him with all faithfulness. Throw away other gods. Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve." (Joshua 24:14-15) * "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15) * "Far be it from us to forsake the Lord to serve other gods." (Joshua 24:16)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Joshua's Farewell Address, Part One
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God is sovereign over nature for His people. 2. God is sovereign over history for His people 3. God is sovereign over mankind for His people.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Make sure you hear the rest of the story.
QUESTIONS1. List Joshua's three farewell addresses in Joshua 22-24. 2. Where did Joshua's final farewell address to all of the people take place? 3. What had happened previously in this place? 4. Why were there two covenant renewals? 5. What did Joshua summarize in the first part of this covenant renewal? 6. In Joshua 24, we see that God is sovereign, in full control, over three areas. Name these three areas.
ANSWERS1. Joshua 22 - Joshua's farewell address to the two and one-half tribes who lived on the east side of the Jordan River; Joshua 23 - Joshua's farewell address to the leaders of Israel; Joshua 24 - Joshua's final farewell address to all of Israel. 2. At Shechem. 3. It was where Israel had ratified God's covenant soon after the battles of Jericho and Ai, probably about twenty-five years before this. 4. Why not? It never hurts to renew a covenant before God, especially after twenty-five years. Covenant renewal is a good practice. 5. He summarized God's faithfulness to His people, especially in the way He chose, protected and guided Israel. See also Psalm 44:1-3. 6. Over nature, history and mankind. That is, God is in full control over all these areas, and makes them work together for the good of His people.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. List Old Testament examples or evidences of God's sovereign control over nature for His people. Consider New Testament examples. Consider current evidences of God's sovereign control over nature for His people. 2. List Old Testament examples of God's sovereign control over history for His people. Consider New Testament examples. Consider current evidences of God's sovereign control over history for His people. 3. List Old Testament examples of God's control over mankind for His people. Consider New Testament examples. Consider current evidences of God's sovereign control over mankind for His people.
CHALLENGE1. In times past, the present seemed dark, but when the whole story was played out, it was different. Are you going through a dark period right now? Be patient and wait for God to finish the story. Read Romans 8:28 and 1 Corinthians 2:9. Trust Him, who is sovereign over nature, history and mankind.
KEY VERSES* "I gave you a land on which you did not toil and cities you did not build, and you live in them and eat from the vineyards and olive groves that you did not plant." (Joshua 24:13) * "God works all things for the good of those who love Him." (Romans 8:28) * "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor mind conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Joshua's Farewell Address to the Israelite Leaders
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God is faithful to His promises in the land. 2. God is faithful to His warnings in the land.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Practice the three steps of preventive maintenance for your spiritual life: a. Obey the word of God b. Separate from the world c. Love the Lord your God
QUESTIONS1. In the last three chapters of the book of Joshua, there are three farewell messages: Chapter 22 - Joshua's farewell to _____________ Chapter 23 - Joshua's farewell to ___________ Chapter 24 - Joshua's farewell to ____________ 2. Where was the covenant renewed? 3. How long after the conquest was over did Joshua's second farewell address occur? 4. At that time, the Lord had given rest, and Joshua was old. About how old? 5. In Joshua 13, the Lord had told Joshua that he was old and advanced in years. How old was he then? 6. What does the physical land of Joshua represent? 7. What is this land called in Ephesians? 8. Is this the heaven to come in the future?
ANSWERS1. the military troops of the two and one-half tribes whose territories were on the other side of the Jordan River; the rulers and leaders of Israel; to all the people. 2. At Shechem. 3. Anywhere from five to twenty years. 4. About 100 years old, or even 110. 5. At least ninety. 6. The spiritual land we enter when we become Christians. 7. The "heavenlies." 8. No. It is the unseen but real realm of spiritual blessings and battles now.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. As God was faithful to His promises concerning the physical land of Canaan for Israel, so he is faithful to His promises concerning the spiritual land He has given to us. See Ephesians 1:1-3. This was a continuing promise, just as Philippians 1:6. What is the evidence of God's sanctification continuing in your life? 2. God gave warnings to the people in the land. The same is true today for the spiritual land that God has given us. If we do not follow faithfully, we suffer loss and ruin. What do you believe is keeping you from following fully?
CHALLENGE1. Are you practicing the three steps of preventive maintenance for your spiritual life? How diligently are you reading and obeying the word of God? Are you separated from the idolatry and evil of this world system? Do you love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and mind?
KEY VERSES* "You have seen everything the Lord your God has done for your sake; it was the Lord your God who fought for you." (Joshua 23:3) * "Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law. Avoid association with nations with other gods; do not serve or bow down to them. Hold fast to the Lord your God." (Joshua 23:6-8) * "You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the Lord your God gave you has failed." (Joshua 23:14)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Two and One-half Tribes Explain the Purpose of the Altar
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. It is wrong for believers not to think ahead. 2. It is right for believers not to retaliate.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. What kind of message are you sending to the next generation?
QUESTIONS1. What was the basic problem between the tribal divisions? 2. How was the situation resolved? 3. Why is Joshua 22 a good chapter to study whenever misunderstandings arise between believers, whether it be in a Christian family, a Christian ministry, or in the church? 4. In what way were both divisions wrong? 5. How did God safeguard a common worship of Himself by His people?
ANSWERS1. The two and one-half tribes built an altar, which caused great concern on the part of the other tribes, thinking that they were setting up a separate system of worship. In their eyes, this was rebellion, apostasy, idolatry. 2. The accusing party sent a committee to investigate, and found that the motives were pure, that they had built only a memorial replica of the true altar at Shiloh to be a witness to their families for generations to come. Their interpretation was that even though they lived on the east side of the Jordan River they were part of Israel that lived on the west side. They were one nation under God. 3. When a major misunderstanding took place between the two divisions of tribes, it nearly caused a civil war. Fortunately, an investigating committee was set up to understand the real reason for their actions. When the "offending" party was given an opportunity to explain their actions, the "accusing" party realized they had misjudged their motives. Not only was war averted, but the two divisions realized that they were one nation under God. 4. Even though their motives were good, the east siders failed to think ahead as to how their actions might be interpreted by the west siders. The west siders were quick to judge (misjudge) the motives of their brothers. 5. God chose a central sanctuary in the land where all His people were to come to worship. Read Deuteronomy 16:16-17.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The east siders failed to think ahead as to what their actions might mean to their brothers, even though their motives were good. We need to avoid even the appearance of evil to others. This means thinking about a situation and prejuding our own actions in light of others. 2. It would have been easy and "natural" for the east siders to retaliate, but they didn't. Instead, they responded, "The Lord knows! If we are in error, let the Lord Himself require an account." They were willing to be disciplined if they were wrong. What a great lesson for us! Read 1 Peter 5:6 for a proper attitude in such a situation.
CHALLENGE1. Be careful of the message you are sending to the next generation. Think before you act. Make sure your motives are pure and your actions read rightly. 2. When the older generation faithfully follows and worships the Lord, then the next generation will get the message. Is this the message you are sending?
KEY VERSES* "The Lord God of gods, the Lord God of gods! He knows!" (Joshua 22:22) * "If we have done wrong, may the Lord Himself require an account." (Joshua 22:23) * "Let us build an altar as a witness between you and us and our generations that follow, that we will worship the Lord at His sanctuary." (Joshua 22:26-27)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Controversial Altar Built Near the Jordan River
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. It is wrong for believers to judge the motives of other believers. 2. It is right for believers to investigate before taking action.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Give credit where credit is due. 2. Don't forget to share.
QUESTIONS1. Why did Moses rebuke the two and one-half tribes? 2. How did Moses deal with this issue? 3. There was a threat of civil war in Israel. What was this about? 4. There was a threat of civil war in Israel. What was this about? 5. How was the threat of war settled?
ANSWERS1. Because of their lack of full commitment and unwillingness to go all the way into the land of promise. 2. Moses gave the two and one-half tribes permission to settle on the east side of the Jordan River as long as their armies went over and fought with the rest of Israel until the land was conquered. They agreed and kept their word. 3. They had served well, and they were given an honorable discharge. 4. The two and one-half tribes built a large altar, and the other tribes believed that they were setting up another system of worship. This would have been an act of rebellion and apostasy. 5. The nine and one-half tribes investigated, sending a delegation of men to see what was happening. They realized they had misjudged their motives when the two and one-half tribes explained that they were only setting up a symbolic and memorial replica altar as a witness for their families that they were one nation under God.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The nine and one-half tribes misjudged the motives of the two and one-half tribes, jumping to a wrong conclusion which nearly resulted in civil war. They were right in being concerned and zealous for the holiness of God, but they were wrong in so quickly judging their brothers. Can you identify? Did you learn a lesson, too? 2. The nine and one-half tribes investigated before taking action, sending a delegation of ten men headed up by the priest. They asked before assaulting, and things were straightened out. Do you investigate before taking action within your church and family structure? Beware of misguided zeal.
CHALLENGE1. Joshua was a good and beloved leader because he gave credit where credit was due. See Joshua 22:1-3. We should do the same. 2. Joshua told the tribes to share the booty of war with their brethren when they returned home. Are you sharing from what the Lord has given you?
KEY VERSES* "Take careful heed to do the commandment and the law: to love the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, to obey His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and all your soul." (Joshua 22:5) * "Return to your homes with your great wealth, and divide with your brothers..." (Joshua 22:8)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Cities Given to the Levites
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God provides Levites for His people. 2. God provides His people for the Levites.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Remember, rest land is not vacation land.
QUESTIONS1. Name the three groups of Levites. 2. How many cities were given to the Levites in all? 3. Why didn't the Levites receive territory in Israel? 4. What territory was Simeon given? 5. What special role was given to the Levites and why? 6. Who were the official interpreters and scribes of the law? 7. Why were the Levites situated throughout the land in the forty-eight cities, and not just around Jerusalem and the temple?
ANSWERS1. Koathites, Gersonites, and Merarites 2. Forty-eight 3. Because of their participation with Simeon in leading the unholy slaughter of the Jeshonites. 4. Only cities scattered throughout Judah's territory. 5. They were servants of the Lord because they stood with Moses at the tragic event of the gold calf. See Exodus 32:26. 6. The Levites. 7. So they could teach the word of God to all the people. No Israelite lived more than ten miles from a Levitical city. Anyone who had questions about the law and the word of God could have easy access to speak to a Levite
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God provided the Levites as servants and teachers of the word for His people. Today, God continues to provide for His people. See Ephesians 4:11-12. Recall servants of the Lord who have taught and ministered the word of God to you over the years. 2. The tribes of Israel gave up forty-eight of their cities for the Levites, as well as the surrounding pasture lands and suburbs. The Levites were provided for by God's people both in this way and they were supported by their tithes. Can you relate this to today? See Galatians 6:6 and 1 Corinthians 9:13-14. How have you shown your appreciation for the Lord's servants who have ministered to you through the years? 3. Read Nehemiah 13:10-12. During the closing days of the Old Testament period portions were not given by the people, so the Lord's servants had to go back to secular employment, and the work of the Lord suffered. Do you know of a case of this today? Do you at least tithe? If you are serving the Lord full time, remember that the Levites tithed, too. See Numbers 18:26
CHALLENGE1. The tribes got bogged down, failing to fully possess all the land that God had given them. Are you possessing all the spiritual land of blessing that the Lord has given to you? See Matthew 11:28-29 and 1 Corinthians 15:58.
KEY VERSES* "The Israelites gave to the Levites from their own inheritance, at the commandment of the Lord, cities and common lands." (Joshua 21:3) * "Not one of all the Lord's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled." (Joshua 21:45)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Cities of Refuge
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Christ, the true city of refuge, provides security from wrath. 2. Christ, the true city of refuge, is readily accessible.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's be clear refuge signs for the unbeliever.
QUESTIONS1. In Old Testament days before the giving of the law, when a person was killed by another person, who took on the responsibility of getting revenge? 2. Is the practice of blood-revenge still carried out today? 3. How many cities of refuge did God provide for people who had killed unintentionally or accidentally? 4. Were cities of refuge commanded to be set up under the law? 5. Read Deuteronomy 19:4-5. What is this an example of? 6. How long was a manslayer safe, and under what circumstances?
ANSWERS1. A near relative of the slain person. 2. Yes, by some of the Beduoin Tribes of the Middle East. 3. Six cities of refuge. 4. Yes. See Numbers 35. 5. Of an accidental killing where the manslayer flees to a city of refuge. 6. He was safe as long as he stayed in the city of refuge and until he stood trial and until the death of the high priest. If, however, he was found guilty he received the death penalty - a life for a life.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Refer to Hebrews 6:18. Here the author of Hebrews draws upon the city of refuge as an illustration of the refuge we have in Christ. Refuge from what? What does this mean to you? See also John 3:36 and Hebrews 6:18-20. 2. Read Romans 10:13, John 3:16 and Revelation 22:17. Do you see something common in these passages? Have you drawn on the accessibility in Christ as your city of refuge?
CHALLENGE1. Jewish tradition says that all roads leading to the cities of refuge had to be kept in good repair and clearly marked. Are you a clear refuge sign that can point others to Christ? Do your friends and neighbors know they can turn to you in times of crisis?
KEY VERSES* "For all of the Israelites and for the stranger who dwelt among them, that whoever killed a person accidentally might flee to designated cities, and not die by the hand of the avenger" (Joshua 20:1)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Boundaries for the Remaining Tribes of Israel
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Every believer has a portion in the land. 2. The Lord's portion is His people.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's set the example like Joshua.
QUESTIONS1. Why is Simeon's inheritance not found on Bible maps that show tribal lands? 2. In which tribal territory will the Battle of Armageddon take place? 3. Name some noteworthy events that later took place in the territory of the tribe of Asher. 4. Timnath Serah. Whose portion was this? 5. Which three cities were burned in the conquest?
ANSWERS1. Simeon's inheritance was within the inheritance of the tribe of Judah. 2. In Issachar's territory, which includes the Plain of Jezreel, where the final battle will take place. See Revelation 16. 3. Elijah would defeat the prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel. The godly prophetess Anna was from the tribe of Asher. 4. Joshua's. 5. Jericho, Ai and Hazor.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Just as God sovereignly divided the portion of the land to the different tribes, so God sovereignly distributes the different gifts and ministries among His people today. Read 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 and 1 Peter 4:10. Have you identified your gift? Are you a good steward of your gift? Are you using your gift for the profit of other believers? Are you using your gift to glorify God? 2. Believers are the Lord's portion, just as Joshua's inheritance was an abundant portion. What does this mean spiritually? Refer to Ephesians 1:18.
CHALLENGE1. Joshua was a man of noble spirit, a godly man who practiced self-denial. Do you practice self-denial?
KEY VERSES* "These were the inheritances that were designed in the presence of the Lord." (Joshua 19:51)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Setting Up the Tabernacle at Shiloh and the Boundaries for Benjamin
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Worship should have a central place in the believer's life. 2. Life's major decisions should be made before the Lord.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Good things can come in small packages.
QUESTIONS1. The tabernacle was moved. When and why? 2. What was one of the first things the Israelites did once the tabernacle was moved? 3. Why did Joshua rebuke the children of Israel? 4. What is the lesson in this for us? 5. The seven tribes chose lots for their territories. What does this mean?
ANSWERS1. When the people moved, the tabernacle moved. When the Israelites crossed over the Jordan River and came into the promised land, they set up the tabernacle at Gilgal. Now that the land was conquered the tabernacle was moved to Shiloh. Thus, after the conquest, the tabernacle was placed in the center of the land for easier access. 2. They divided the rest of the land among the seven tribes who still had no assigned tribal territory. 3. He rebuked them for their procrastination in possessing the land. 4. We are rebuked for failing to possess the spiritual land of blessing that God has given us. We are exhorted to be more victorious in the spiritual battles in this land. 5. Jewish tradition says that the priests took two urns and put the territories in one urn and the names of the tribes in the other urn, then the high priest drew one from each urn. In any case, God controlled the division of the land. See Proverbs 16:33.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The tabernacle was the focal place of worship for the children of Israel. It was the place where God dwelt among His people to maintain a relationship between a holy God and a sinful people. A top priority for Israel was to have a central place of worship. Similarly, worship should have a central place in the believer's life today. See Psalm 96:6-9 and John 4:23. Does worship have a central place in your life? 2. Life's major decisions should be made before the Lord. The Israelites surveyed the land and brought it before the Lord. These decisions would not only affect their position in the land, but much of their future history as well. Do you make your major decisions in life before the Lord? Give examples, both of when you have done this, and when you have gone ahead without consulting the Lord.
CHALLENGE1. Benjamin was one of the smallest tribes, and its territory was located between the two major tribes of Ephraim and Judah. Benjamin became a buffer zone between these other tribes. Jerusalem was one of the cities given to Benjamin, and it would become the capitol of the nation. The temple would eventually be there. Saul, the first king of Israel would come from the little tribe of Benjamin, and so would the apostle Paul. Benjamin was a good thing in a small package. Do you feel like you are a small package with no great upfront gift or talent? Be encouraged. God says that you are necessary in the body of Christ. See 1 Corinthians 12:21-22.
KEY VERSES* "The whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh and set up the tabernacle of meeting there." (Joshua 18:1) * "Joshua said, 'How long will you neglect to go and possess the land which the Lord has given you?" (Joshua 18:3)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Inheritance of Ephraim and Half the Tribe of Manasseh
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God is more pleased with territory gained than with tribute given. 2. God is more pleased with faith walkers than with faith talkers.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Will it be said in heaven that you could not or that you would not? 2. The ball is in your court.
QUESTIONS1. Why wasn't there a tribe called Joseph? 2. What did this have to do with Joseph's birthright? 3. In whose territory was Shiloh located? 4. Judah, for lack of faith could not drive out the Jebusites. What was Ephraim lacking ? 5. Why did Zelophehad's daughters receive their father's inheritance?
ANSWERS1. Joseph received his blessing in the land through his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. 2. He received a double portion of the land, an aspect of his birthright. 3. In Ephraim's territory. This is where the tabernacle would be located for more than 300 years to come. 4. They had a lack of will. 5. Because there were no sons, and the daughters asked for their father's inheritance and received it.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God is more pleased with territory gained than with tribute given. Ephraim failed to drive out the enemy completely, but they did put them to work and made them pay tribute. However, this was not God's desire or design. Today, many Christians are motivated by the love of money. As a result there is money given to the work of the Lord, but the Lord is not their number one priority. How is it with you? 2. The children of Joseph said that they were a great people. They were good faith talkers, like some Christians today. They wanted more territory, but they didn't want to work for it or fight for it. Could you be in that category?
CHALLENGE1. Will it be said in heaven that you could not or that you would not? The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh failed to drive out the enemy, rather they chose to co-exist with them if they could get some benefit out of the relationship. Don't be a wordly Christian! 2. Joshua challenged Ephraim and Manasseh to assume responsibility. Do you want blessing in your life? Do you want to become a more mature believer? Then be a spiritual great and work for what you want.
KEY VERSES* "Boundaries and land were given, but they did not drive out the Canaanites." (Joshua 16:10) * "The Manassites could not drive out the inhabitants...but they subjected the Canaanites to forced labor." (Joshua 17:12-13) * "The children of Joseph said to Joshua, 'Why have you given us only one lot and one share to inherit, since we are a great people?' 'If you are so great,' Joshua answered, then go up to the forest country and clear a place for yourself." (Joshua 17:14-15)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Boundaries for the Tribal Area of Judah
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God sovereignly distributes our portion in the land. 2. God graciously grants our requests in the land.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Is our problem lack of strength or lack of faith?
QUESTIONS1. In which portion of this lesson are the borders of Judah given? 2. In which portion of this lesson is there a listing of the cities of Judah? 3. How does Joshua 11, where we read that Israel conquered Hebron and drove out the giants harmonize with Joshua 14-15, where we read that Caleb took Hebron? 4. In Joshua 15:21-32 there is a listing of 38 cities, but verse 32 says the total is only 29. How is this explained? 5. How does 1 Corinthians 12:4-12 relate to this passage in Joshua? 6. Was Achsah's request for springs of water a selfish request? 7. Why didn't Judah fully drive out the Jebusites (until the time of David)?
ANSWERS1. Joshua 15:1-4, the southern border; 15:5-9, the eastern border; 15:10-11, the northern border; 15:12, the western border. 2. Joshua 15:20-63 3. Most likely they are one and the same, with the latter chapters giving the detail. 4. Most likely the answer is found in Joshua 19, where we see that the tribe of Simeon had its tribal area within the tribal area of Judah, and thus possessed nine of these cities. 5. God sovereignly distributed the land to His people, and God sovereignly distributes gifts to His people today. God knew what was best for the Israelites and He knows what is best for each of us. 6. Not at all, for she needed the water to make the land more productive. 7. The Lord had promised total victory, so Judah's problem was not lack of strength, but lack of faith.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God sovereignly distributed to each tribe its portion of the land. God sovereignly distributes to each Christian the gifts of His choice. In the land of spiritual realities God determines our gifts, ministries and Christian service. He knew what was best for Judah and He knows what is best for us today. Are you content with your portion, with what God has given to you? Do you know what your spiritual gift it? Are you using this gift for His glory? 2. ust as Achsah's request for the springs of water was granted, so will ours be when we ask for things to make us more fruitful. See John 15:16. What are you asking God for?
CHALLENGE1. Because of lack of faith, Judah did not fully drive out the Jebusites until much later in history. Is the enemy controlling some of the land in your life? Are you living with doubts, discouragements, defeat? Are you causing yourself grief because of lack of faith? Read and memorize Isaiah 40:31.
KEY VERSES* "In accordance with the Lord's command, Joshua gave to Caleb a portion in Judah. Caleb drove out the giants." (Joshua 15:13-14) * "Achsah asked her father for springs of water to go with the land he gave her. So Caleb gave her the upper and lower springs." (Joshua 15:18-19)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Caleb Claims His Special Portion of the Land
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. There are mountains to be reclaimed in the land. 2. There are giants to be removed from the land.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's all say, "I want to be like Caleb."
QUESTIONS1. What was to happen after the seven year conquest was over? 2. Was it God's desire that the two and one-half tribes settle on the east side of the Jordan River? 3. Refer to Joshua 14:1. Was Eleazar the priest in line with what God had declared in Numbers 34:16-18? 4. Why did Caleb receive a special portion of the land? 5. Name all those who were faithful to the Lord from the time the Israelites came out of Egypt through the wandering in the wilderness.
ANSWERS1. The land would be possessed by the Israelites. 2. No, but He allowed them to have their way. They settled for God's permissive will rather than His perfect will. 3. Yes. 4. Because out of the twelve spies Moses sent to spy on Canaan, only Joshua and Caleb gave favorable reports. 5. Joshua and Caleb were the only two from that generation who trusted the Lord wholly and who entered the promised land.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. There were mountains to be claimed in the land of Canaan, and there are mountains to be claimed in the unseen world of spiritual realities. Satan and his world system have captured many truths with lies and brainwashing. Reclaim the mountains so the real truth is known. One example: the Bible teaches that man is born bad, with a sinful nature. Satan's lie is that man is born good and with enough education he can climb out of his environment. List other lies of Satan and how you can help reclaim mountains with God's truth. 2. The Anakim, the giants were still in the land, but Caleb drove them out in the strength of the Lord. There are giants today, the enemy forces and forms of spiritual opposition that control certain areas of the land. For example, secular education that teaches evolution. Are you countering this lie with the truth of creationism? Are there other giants that you are driving out?
CHALLENGE1. There was no mid-life crisis for Caleb, no retirement, no jealousy. Are you a Caleb? Are you conquering mountains, regardless of your age?
KEY VERSES* "Caleb said, 'I was forty years old when I was sent to spy out the land, and I brought back word as it was in my heart...I wholly followed the Lord my God." (Joshua 14:7-8) * "The Lord has kept me alive these forty-five years since that time. Here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong as the day Moses sent me out. Just as my strength was then, so now is my strength for war. Now therefore, give me this mountain of which the Lord spoke in that day." (Joshua 14:10-12) * "The land had rest from war." (Joshua 14:15)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Division of the Land on the East Side of the Jordan
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Believers must possess their inheritance. 2. Believers must dispossess their inheritance.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's live more like the Levites.
QUESTIONS1. Let's live more like the Levites. 2. Why did they want their portion on the East Side? 3. Why was Levi given no inheritance? 4. How is the Book of Joshua divided? 5. Why did the Lord say to Joshua that he was old and advanced in years? 6. Did the tribes complete the job of possession of the land? 7. How will the enemy be disposed from our inheritance?
ANSWERS1. Reuben, Gad and one-half of Manasseh. 2. They had asked to live there. See Numbers 32. 3. Because the Lord God of Israel was their inheritance. They were to serve the Lord full time. 4. The first half concerned the conquering of the land; in the second half, beginning with Joshua 13 the division and settling of the land is recorded. 5. Joshua was at least in his 90s. He had done a great job and the seven years of conquest was over, but a lot of territory still needed to be possessed. 6. No. They failed to conquer the Philistines (see Joshua 13:2). 7. By looking to the Lord and following the principles that God has laid down in His word.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The land of Canaan was given to the Israelites by God Himself. But they had to possess their inheritance. The same is true for believers today. God has given us an inheritance in the land of spiritual blessings, but it is up to us to possess it. Have you possessed your inheritance? Or are you full of fears -of dying, of the future? Do you have the joy and peace of the Lord? 2. Before Israel could fully possess their inheritance, they must fully disposses the land of the enemy forces. God promises victory to us just as He promised it to them. Little by little as we follow the Lord and mature in the faith, we will see victory over sin and temptation, and we will be strengthened as we move out and claim territory that is still in enemy hands. This applies not only to our priorities and world views, where Satan loves to have control, but it applies to our Christian service as well. How are you doing?
CHALLENGE1. The Levites had no inheritance except the Lord God. He was sufficient for every need. They were not concerned with material things like houses, property, herds, etc. They were more streamlined in their lifestyle. They were occupied with serving the Lord. As a result, they were closer to the Lord. Are there things that keep you more occupied than serving the Lord? What are your priorities concerning possessions? Can you say with David, "The Lord is the portion of my inheritance" (Psalm 16:5-6)? Can you identify your goal with Paul's, "That I may know Him" (Philippians 3:10)?
KEY VERSES* "Now Joshua was old and well advanced in years. And the Lord said to him, 'You are very old and there remains much land yet to be possessed." (Joshua 13:1) * "To the tribe of Levi, Moses had given no inheritance...the Lord God of Israel was their inheritance." (Joshua 13:33)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
A Summary the Kings Conquered by Israel on Both Sides of the Jordan
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God keeps a record of the believers' enemies in the land. 2. God keeps a record of the believers victories in the land.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Count your many battles. Name them one by one.
QUESTIONS1. What is the difference between the Amorites and the Ammonites? 2. How many kings were conquered by Israel on the east side of the Jordan? How many kings were conquered on the west side of the Jordan? 3. What were so many kings doing in a land about the size of the state of New Jersey? 4. What does the physical land of Canaan represent spiritually? 5. What do the kings represent? 6. Why does God keep a record of our spiritual victories?
ANSWERS1. Amorites were enemies of Israel. Ammonites were descendants of Lot. 2. East side - 2; west side - 31. 3. The Canaanites were not united as a nation, but they were fractured up into many city-states with a ruling king for each city. 4. The blessings and battles that the Lord has given to Christians and wants them to possess. God wants us to enjoy the blessings and be victorious over the battles. 5. The satanic forces that work to keep Christians defeated, and to keep them from enjoying the spiritual blessings in Christ. See Ephesians 6:12. 6. So He can reward us. See 1 Corinthians 3:12-14
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God keeps a record of all the enemy opposition that we face. He knows everything that Satan is doing. Do you doubt that He is aware of your battles? Do you doubt that He can give you the victory? Don't ever doubt God's concern for you. 2. God not only knows about the enemy forces, but He enables us to have victory over them. God is faithful and will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able to bear. Do you believe this? Believe it!
CHALLENGE1. Remember to thank the Lord for giving you victory over certain temptations. Just thanking the Lord gives you strength for further victories, even in the same areas of temptation. Don't rest on your laurels.
KEY VERSES* "These are the kings of the land whom the Israelites had defeated and whose land they possessed." (Joshua 12:1)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Northern Campaign and a Summary of the Seven Year Conquest
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Faithful warriors don't fear numbers 2. Faithful warriors do not fear giants.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Do you know what rest is all about?
QUESTIONS1. What was Joshua's strategy in attacking the coalition of kings during the northern campaign? 2. Throughout the whole conquest, only three cities were burned. The rest of the cities were taken over and inhabited by the children of Israel. Which three cities were burned? 3. What was God's rod of judgment against the hard-hearted Canaanites? 4. How long did the conquest last? 5. Recall the giant/grasshopper complex. What made the difference? 6. The land rested from war. Did that mean that all the land was possessed by Israel?
ANSWERS1. Joshua decided to attack them with a pre-emptive strike before the enemy was fully organized. He attacked them in the hill country and completely demobilized them, crippling their horses and burning their chariots. He attacked Hazor, the largest city in Israel at that time. Hazor controlled the whole northern half of the land of Canaan. 2. Jericho, Ai and Hazor. 3. Israel was brought in as God's rod of judgment. God had given the Canaanites plenty of time to repent and change their ways, but they would not. They hardened their hearts against God. 4. About seven years. 5. Israel no longer feared the giants nor did they see themselves as grasshoppers because their eyes were now on the Lord. It was a matter of perspective. 6. No. The Lord said to Joshua, "There remains much land yet to be possessed." According to the Book of the Judges, we know that enemy forces continued to exist in the land.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The enemy opposition in Joshua represents spiritual opposition today. Just as the northern coalition of pagan enemy forces outnumbered and outclassed the army of Israel, so the spiritual opposition we face in the world today appears to be superior to the small Christian community. There is a tendency to be scared because we are in the minority, but God is with us and He has not given us a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7). Israel trusted in the Lord, not in a captured cavalry or their own military strength. See Psalm 20:7. Are you trusting God with the victory? 2. Do you fear giants that you face in spiritual warfare? What about the fear of losing your job, or the fear of dying, or the fear of loneliness, or security in your old age? Those can be giants to keep you from enjoying your blessings in Christ. There are no giants that cannot be brought down by faith. Be faithful and watch God work.
CHALLENGE1. Have you come to the place in your Christian life where the control of sin and spiritual opposition is no longer overwhelming? Are you resting in Christ in the land of spiritual blessings? The major battles of the world, the flesh and the devil have been fought and won. See Romans 6:14.
KEY VERSES* "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of the enemy forces, for by this time tomorrow I will deliver all of them slain to Israel." (Joshua 11:6) * "It was of the Lord who hardened their hearts to wage war against Israel, that He might utterly destroy them. (Joshua 11:20) * "So Joshua took the entire land and gave it as an inheritance according to their tribes. Then the land rested from war." (Joshua 11:23)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Conquest of Canaan: Southern Campaign Completed
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Faithful warriors let nothing escape. 2. Faithful warriors return to Gilgal.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. If God is for us, who can be against us?
QUESTIONS1. In which order did Joshua carry out his southern, northern and central campaigns in the conquest of Canaan? 2. What was Joshua's basic military strategy? 3. Why did God command Joshua and the Israeli army to completely destroy all the land and the people? (Joshua 10:40) 4. Where was Israel's base camp located? 5. List some historical reasons for choosing this place. 6. In the spiritual picture, what does Gilgal represent? 7. What is spiritual circumcision? 8. List some of God's miracles for His people as they journeyed from Egypt to Canaan.
ANSWERS1. In order: central, southern, northern 2. First, to divide and conquer in the central portion of Canaan (Jericho and Ai), then to deal with the five kings of the southern coalition, and finally to attack the northern coalition. 3. So that they would not be influenced by the wicked Caananites. See Leviticus 18:24-30. 4. In Gilgal 5. Gilgal was the place where Israel had entered the land, where the reproach of Egypt had been rolled away, and where they had set up the twelve stones from the river bed. It was where they celebrated the Passover once again, and where the new generation had been circumcised. 6. Gilgal represents the place of self-judgment and the place of spiritual strengthening for the believer. 7. Applying the knife of God's word to the strong desires of the flesh. It is the death-to-self principle, the judgment of self in light of God's word. 8. It was only by God's grace that they had been brought out of Egypt, through the wilderness and into the promised land. Some of God's miracles included the parting of the Red Sea, the manna in the wilderness, and the stopping of the Jordan River.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Under the command of God, Joshua led faithful warriors to completely conquer the pagan opposition. We are to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). Are you able to do this? Have you cast down every high thing that exalts itself against God? 2. Only as we return to the base camp of Gilgal in the Christian life are we kept humble and spiritually strengthened. Remember God saved us by His grace alone. Only as we practice self-judgment we are truly humbled and enabled to go out and fight spiritual battles in His strength. Galatians 2:20and returning to Gilgal go together, spiritually speaking. Are you crucified with Christ?
CHALLENGE1. Do you really believe that if God be for us, who can be against us? Believe it and act on it. You don't have to fear the enemy, just follow the Lord.
KEY VERSES* "So Joshua conquered all the land: the mountain country and the South and the lowland and the wilderness slopes, and all their kings; he left none remaining but utterly destroyed all that breathed, as the Lord God of Israel had commanded." (Joshua 10:40) * "All these kings and their land Joshua took at one time, because the Lord God of Israel fought for Israel. Then Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, to the camp at Gilgal." (Joshua 10:42-43)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
A Coalition of Five Kings are Defeated
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The faithful believer should be efficient in spiritual warfare. 2. The faithful believer will be effective in spiritual warfare.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's put our foot down on sin.
QUESTIONS1. What did Joshua do first when he found that the kings were hidden a cave and the enemy troops were running away in defeat? Then what did he do? 2. What other historical event happened in the same area where the caves were located? 3. Why did Joshua have his army captains place their feet on the necks of the kings? 4. Why is it said that when Joshua shut the five kings up in the cave he was being efficient in defeating these pagan nations? 5. What is the spiritual lesson in Question #4? 6. What is the particular spiritual lesson in Joshua 10? 7. What are root sins?
ANSWERS1. The first thing Joshua did was to temporarily seal the kings in the cave, then he pursued the enemy forces. 2. This was where David and his men hid from Saul, who wanted to kill David. 3. It was a symbolic gesture in that culture that the pagan nations had been conquered by Israel. 4. Rather than dealing with these kings immediately, he put them under guard so they were checked and ineffective. Meanwhile, he used his energies and forces to deal with the armies of these kings, more of an immediate problem before the troops could escape. 5. Remember, the Book of Joshua is a handbook for spiritual warfare. All of the enemies in the land of Canaan picture in some way the opposition that we face in spiritual warfare - the world, the flesh and the devil. 6. Our battle with the sins of the flesh. Some sins are more open and some are more hidden, like the kings in the cave. 7. In most cases, the hidden sins of the flesh are root sins; the more open sins usually trace their origin and power to the root sins.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Just as Joshua dealt with both the kings and the enemy troops, the faithful believer should be efficient in spiritual warfare. The sins in our lives and in the life of the church must be dealt with, both the open and hidden sins. Recall some of the sins that your church has had to deal with. Recall some of the sins that you have had to deal with in your own life. 2. Consider some of the results of hidden sins, and discuss how you would deal with the hidden sins of pride, the love of money, selfishness, self-righteousness and evil thoughts.
CHALLENGE1. Joshua had his captains put their feet on the necks of the defeated kings. The God of peace will crush Satan under His feet shortly. In the meantime, put your foot down on sin, realizing that sin and Satan have been conquered on the cross.
KEY VERSES* "The Lord your God has delivered the enemy into your hand." (Joshua 10:19) * "Put your feet on the necks of the kings." (Joshua 10:24)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
A Great Miracle: The Day the Sun Stood Still
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The Lord can use natural events to help His people. 2. The Lord can use supernatural events to help His people.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Your prayers can save the day.
QUESTIONS1. Joshua was called upon to honor his peace treaty with the Gibeonites. What did they ask him to do? 2. How did Joshua and the Israeli army honor the treaty? 3. What natural event did the Lord use in conquering the enemy? 4. What supernatural event did the Lord use during the battle? 5. How did this supernatural event happen? 6. Is the NASA computer report valid? 7. Has this supernatural event ever happened again?
ANSWERS1. To fight for them when five Amorite kings ganged up on them. 2. They attacked the enemy at dawn after an all-night march of about twenty-five miles uphill. The surprise attack routed the enemy. 3. He sent hailstones from heaven, killing many enemy troops, more than the Israeli soldiers killed with the sword. 4. He caused the sun and the moon to stand still. 5. We don't know. But God is God and He can do miracles. 6. No. It's just a story whereby men try to help support God. But that is not necessary. God is God, and He can do miracles without our explanations or help. 7. No. See Joshua 10:14
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Hailstones came down from heaven, giving victory to the children of Israel. Do you recall a natural event that God used to help you? 2. The sun stood still. Can you recall a miracle that happened in your life?
CHALLENGE1. Joshua consulted God, then prayed and God answered with a miracle. Are you in the habit of consulting God, then praying, then expecting Him to answer miraculously?
KEY VERSES* "The men of Gibeon sent to Joshua at the camp at Gilgal, saying, 'Do not forsake your servants; come up to us quickly, save us and help us, for all the kings of the Amorites who dwell in the mountains have gathered together against us." (Joshua 10:6) * "So Joshua ascended. The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand." (Joshua 10:7-8) * "The Lord cast down large hailstones from heaven on them...and they died. There were more who died from the hailstones than the children of Israel killed with the sword." (Joshua 10:11) * "Then Joshua spoke to the Lord, 'Sun, stand still over Gibeon; and Moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.' So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped. And there has been no day like that, before it or after it, that the Lord heeded the voice of a man." (Joshua 10:12-14)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Consequences of the Gibeonite Deception
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BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Serious covenants made before God must be honored. 2. Foolish covenants made before God may have long-term consequences.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. We don't have to be deceived.
QUESTIONS1. Was Israel defeated by the Gibeonites? 2. Why did God command the Israelites to destroy the pagan nations from the land? 3. Why didn't the children of Israel attack the cities allied with the Gibeonites? 4. Why did the Israeli congregation complain about this? 5. What role did the Gibeonites have with Israel? 6. Why couldn't Israel just admit their mistake, break the covenant and do away with it? 7. How did the covenant with the Gibeonites affect King Saul many years later?
ANSWERS1. No, not defeated, but deceived. 2. Because He did not want His people contaminated by the immoral and idolatrous pagan nations. See Deuteronomy 7:1-6. Israel was a holy people, chosen, a special treasure of the Lord. 3. Because of their peace treaty and their oath with the Gibeonites, which included these people. See Joshua 9:17-18. 4. Because of the treaty, they could not inhabit these cities and have use of the wells and vineyards. 5. They became servants of the tabernacle and temple in Israel. Specifically, they were wood cutters and water carriers. 6. Because it was a covenant made before God. 7. See 2 Samuel 21. Seven of Saul's descendants were hanged following King Saul's murder of some Gibeonites.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Israel was deceived into making a covenant with the enemy, and it had to be honored. Serious covenants made before God must be honored. Have you honored a covenant that you regretted making? 2. Israel had to live with the consequences of their covenant long-term. Have you made foolish covenants that have had long-term consequences? What kind of fall-out did you endure? The good news? See 1 Chronicles 12:4 and Nehemiah 3:7. And in your case, expect a working for good in spite of your mistake. See Romans 8:28.
CHALLENGE1. God will not allow you to be tempted beyond your capacity to say "No." See 1 Corinthians 10:13. God will not allow any deceptive tactic of Satan to overtake you. In other words, you don't have to be deceived. Learn from past alliances with the world.
KEY VERSES* "We have sworn to them by the Lord God of Israel; now therefore, we may not touch them." (Joshua 9:19) * "Let them live, but let them be woodcutters and water carriers." (Joshua 9:21) * "Why have you deceived us?' 'We were afraid for our lives because of you." (Joshua 9:22, 24)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Deception of the Gibeonites
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Deception is a trademark of the enemy. 2. Deception is a trap of the enemy.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's look before we leap.
QUESTIONS1. What was the overall strategy for conquering the land of Canaan? 2. What did the first strategy have to do with the Gibeonites? 3. What tactics did the Gibeonites use to trick Israel into making a peace treaty? 4. Why didn't the Gibeonites mention the recent victories of Israel over Jericho and Ai? 5. What made the Gibeonites think that this strategy would work? 6. What was the biggest mistake Joshua and the children of Israel made concerning this deception of the Gibeonites? 7. Review: the Book of Joshua is not only the inspired account of the military conquests of Canaan. What else is it?
ANSWERS1. First to divide the country in two with a central campaign, then conquer the South and then the North with respective campaigns. 2. Gibeon was only a few miles from Ai, and the Gibeonites realized that they were probably next in line to be conquered. 3. They dressed in old garments and pretended to be from a far country. 4. They wanted them to think they were from a far country and hadn't heard of recent events. 5. They knew what God had told His people under the law. See Deuteronomy 20:10-11. 6. They did not ask counsel of the Lord. See Joshua 9:14. 7. A handbook for spiritual warfare. All the tactics of the enemy in the Book of Joshua illustrate for us the tactics that Satan uses to try to defeat us.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Satan is a great deceiver. Notice how he comes to the Christian in 2 Corinthians 11:14. Just as the Gibeonites knew the law of God, so does Satan, and he will try to trick the believer into making mistakes and doing the wrong thing. Beware the deception of the enemy. Think of times Satan has deceived you. How could you have countered this deception? 2. Deception is a trap of the enemy, and Satan is interested in more than just tripping us up and tempting us with sin. He wants to trap us into making covenants and decisions which will compromise our testimony long-term. Has Satan entrapped you so that you have become entangled with the world and therefore ineffective? If so, confess your entanglement and ask God to help you. Tell Him that you want to become the person He wants you to be, and the one He can use for His glory.
CHALLENGE1. Before you leap into making decisions and choices, check it out. Look vertically to the Lord, and horizontally to the situation. Israel failed in both ways with the Gibeonites (9:14 and 9:7). Look before you leap.
KEY VERSES* "But the inhabitants of Gibeon worked craftily, and pretended to be ambassadors...'We are your servants. We have heard of the fame of the Lord your God...make a covenant with us." (Joshua 9:3-13) * "The men of Israel did not ask counsel of the Lord. Joshua made peace with them, and made a covenant with them." (Joshua 9:14-15)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
The Covenant is Renewed at Shechem
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The old covenant was established with animal sacrifices and writing on stones. 2. The new covenant is established with the sacrifice of Christ and writing on hearts.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let's take time out for worship. 2. Let's take time out for covenant renewal.
QUESTIONS1. After the victory at Ai, why did Israel take time out temporarily from further battles? 2. Where did this event take place? 3. Which mountains were central in this event, and what took place on each of these mountains? 4. List the other two significant events that took place during this time. 5. Who were the strangers of Joshua 8:33-35?
ANSWERS1. To renew the covenant in obedience to God's command. See Deuteronomy 17:1-8. 2. In Shechem, in the heart of the land. 3. Mt. Ebal, where the blessings were read, and Mt. Gerizim, where the cursings were read. 4. a. Joshua built an altar of natural stones on the slopes of Mt. Ebal, and the people offered burnt offerings and peace offerings to the Lord. b. Joshua wrote on the stones the words of the law. 5. A number of Egyptians came out of Egypt with the children of Israel, and likely during their forty-year wanderings in the wilderness, a number of wilderness Bedouins joined the covenant community.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The Mosaic Law given by God to Moses on Mt. Sinai is the renewed and ratified covenant in Joshua 8. It was a conditional covenant and Israel broke the condition. Put yourself in the place of the children of Israel as they broke the covenant and failed to bring the required sacrifices for sin. Does this not take on new meaning for you as you embrace the new covenant? 2. Christ is the end of the law to everyone who believes (Romans 10:4). The old covenant pointed toward a better covenant. Read Hebrews 8:10, a quotation from Jeremiah 31. Read Matthew 26:28, and thank God for the celebration of the Lord's Supper. Is God's law written on your heart?
CHALLENGE1. Do you find that you become so busy, even in serving the Lord and fighting the good fight that you fail to give proper place to worship? Joshua 8 is an example of "time out." Take time out to worship. 2. In a day of little commitment and broken covenants, renewal is important. In what ways can you renew your covenants?
KEY VERSES* "Joshua built an altar to the Lord God of Israel in Mount Ebal...and they offered on it burnt offerings to the Lord, and sacrificed peace offerings. There, in the presence of the children of Israel, he wrote on the stones a copy of the law of Moses." (Joshua 8:30-32) * "Half of the tribes were in front of Mount Gerizim and half of them in front of Mount Ebal. Afterward, he read all the words of the law, the blessings and the cursings." (Joshua 8:33-34)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Israel's Victory Over Ai
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. The enemy does not have the last laugh. 2. The enemy does not know the tactics of the Lord.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Let God give you victory in your place of defeat.
QUESTIONS1. God gave a great victory over Jericho. Why, then, were the Israelites defeated in a little place called Ai? 2. How did Achan rob God? 3. What was the strategy used to defeat Ai? 4. Why did the men of Ai think they had won again? 5. What was the name of the valley where Israel was judged for their sin? 6. What was the restriction concerning the booty to the victors in Jericho? 7. What was the restriction concerning the booty to the victors in Ai?
ANSWERS1. Because they were disobedient, overconfident and didn't consult the Lord for His direction. 2. By taking some of the silver and gold of Jericho, which was to go into the treasury of the Lord. 3. Joshua divided his forces to set up an ambush and trap the enemy between his contingents. 4. They thought that Israel had come up as before when Joshua's main force pretended to flee. But they were trapped with no way of escape. 5. The Valley of Achor. 6. The silver and gold were to go into the treasury of the Lord. 7. There were no restrictions - it was free for the taking.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. The people of Ai probably laughed in derision as they saw the army of Joshua running away as before. Little did they know that Israel would have the last laugh. Similarly, Satan tries to defeat us in the land of spiritual realities, and sometimes he is able to trip us up with the little Ais. But the enemy does not have the last laugh. God is the ultimate victor and will turn defeat into victory. When you feel defeated, remember that God can pick up the pieces of your life. 2. The pagan Canaanites were outfoxed by Joshua and the army of Israel, who were directed by the Lord Himself. At the cross, Satan thought he was victorious when Jesus died. But God conquered death and raised Jesus from the tomb. Christ Jesus lives today! Have faith in God.
CHALLENGE1. God wants to give you victory in the place of defeat. Israel was defeated at Ai, but the second time around, Ai was defeated. The Valley of Achor, where Israel was judged for their sin and defeat, would become a door of hope for Israel in the future. See Hosea 2:15. In the very place of your Ai, the place of your defeat, God can bring victory.
KEY VERSES* "Now the Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid, nor dismayed...arise, go up to Ai. I have given it into your hand." (Joshua 8:1) * "Joshua burned Ai and made it a heap forever, a desolation to this day." (Joshua 8:28)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Achan's Sin and Judgment
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. Believers must scrutinize their lives for the sin causing defeat. 2. Believers must deal decisively with the sin causing defeat.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Don't travel the Achan trail.
QUESTIONS1. What is the meaning of the name, Ai? 2. Have the ruins of Ai been located? 3. Who caused the problem at Ai? 4. How was the root of the problem uncovered? 5. What was the problem? 6. What was the judgment pronounced and carried out on Achan? 7. Wasn't this a bit harsh? 8. Didn't Achan repent? 9. What was God's response after the judgment was carried out?
ANSWERS1. It means ruins. 2. Not for certain, but an excavation for a possible location is planned. 3. Achan. 4. By a systematic examination by tribe, then family, then the individual. 5. Achan disobeyed God by stealing and hiding goods that were to go into God's treasury, and he tried to hide the truth as well. 6. He and his family were stoned to death, then burned. 7. Not in light of what Achan did. Remember, he was directly responsible for the death of at least thirty-six men and he had robbed God as well as Jericho. 8. No. Only when he was found out, did he confess to the sin, and he didn't show remorse. 9. The anger of the Lord subsided.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. God selected a systematic method to give all of Israel time to examine themselves before Him. When we suffer defeat we must let our lives pass in review before the spotlight of God. See Hebrews 4:12 and Psalm 139:23-24. 2. It is one thing to pinpoint sin, but sin must be judged before the believer can move on. Have you scrutinized, located and dealt with sins in your life?
CHALLENGE1. What is the Achan trail? "I saw, I coveted, I took." (Joshua 7:21) Don't travel the Achan trail. See James 1:14-15
KEY VERSES* "There is an accursed thing in your midst...you cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the accursed thing from among you." (Joshua 7:13) * "Joshua said, 'My son, I beg you, give glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make confession to Him.' Achan answered, 'Indeed I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel." (Joshua 7:19-20) * "When I saw, I coveted, and I took..." (Joshua 7:21) * "Why have you troubled us? The Lord will trouble you.' The Lord turned from His anger." (Joshua 7:25-26)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Israel is Defeated at Ai
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. There are definite causes for defeat in the believer's life.a. Disobedience (7:1), b. Overconfidence (7:3), c. No prayer (7:6-7, 10) 2. There are definite consequences of defeat in the believer's life. a. God is angry (7:1), b. Others are affected (7:1, 11), c. Blessings are withheld (7:12)
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Are you an Achan?
QUESTIONS1. What was Israel's military strategy for the conquest of Canaan? 2. Name the beginning point of the central campaign. 3. How does this portion of Scripture illustrate God's program for this world under judgment? 4. What kind of a city was Ai? Why did it have to be conquered? 5. How many military defeats did Israel suffer during the conquest?
ANSWERS1. To divide and conquer. 2. The destruction of Jericho. 3. As with Rahab, only people will be saved out of this world, because it is programmed for destruction. 4. It was a small city, about fifteen miles from Jericho up on the ridge line. Ai was strategically placed, blocking one of the natural passes up into the hill country. It had to be conquered if the central campaign was to move on. 5. Only one, and that was at Ai.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Review the three causes for defeat in the believer's life. Discuss the meanings or spiritual applications for you, as a believer. Are you in any way robbing God? Have you ever suffered defeat after a spiritual victory? Do you turn to God first in prayer or do you move ahead in your own strength without consulting Him? 2. Review the three consequences of defeat in the believer's life. Discuss the spiritual applications for you, as a believer. How do you respond to God's discipline? Do you really believe that you can sin in a vacuum without affecting others? Have you experienced a standstill in your life because you have not dealt with sin? See 1 John 1:9.
CHALLENGE1. Are you an Achan, a troubler? Is the forward progress and blessing on the Lord's people held up because of your sin? Don't be an Achan.
KEY VERSES* "The children of Israel committed a trespass...because of Achan's sin." (Joshua 7:1) * "Do not let all the people go up, for the people of Ai are few." (Joshua 7:3) * "Alas, Lord God.' 'The Lord said to Joshua, 'Get up!" (Joshua 7:7, 10) * "Israel has sinned...therefore they could not stand before their enemies...destroy the accursed from among you." (Joshua 7:11-12)
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Rahab is Rescued and Jericho is Burned
Printed Version
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)1. God keeps His word of salvation. 2. God keeps His word of judgment.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION1. Be faithful and your fame will spread throughout the land. 2. Let's not allow the walls of Jericho to be built again.
QUESTIONS1. Why would a loving God destroy the people of Jericho? 2. What was the result of the Israelites' disobedience by leaving pockets of the enemy throughout the land? 3. Why were the Israelites to remain in Egypt for many years? 4. What was saved out of Jericho? 5. After Rahab was spared, what distinguished her? 6. How is 1 Kings 16:34 the confirmation of God's word in Joshua 6:26?
ANSWERS1. Jericho was a pagan Canaanite city, gross in their immorality and idolatry. God did not want His people polluted and contaminated because of their influence. 2. It led to their downfall. 3. See Genesis 15:16. Because of the iniquity of the Amorites (Canaanites). God gave them many years of opportunities to change their ways, but they would not. 4. The precious metals to go into the treasury of the Lord; AND, of course, Rahab and her family. 5. She not only came into the covenant family of Israel, but she married there and became the great-great grandmother of David, the line of the Messiah. See Matthew 1. 6. God said that the man who rebuilt the walls of Jericho would be cursed. Its foundation would be laid on his firstborn, and with his youngest son he would set up the gates. In the days of King Ahab, 500 years later, God kept His word of judgment.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER1. Rahab asked the spies to spare her and her family. She believed, and God's word of salvation was kept. Read Hebrews 11:31 and Romans 10:9 and 10:13. Is your faith, like Rahab's, centered in what God has done and will do? 2. God keeps His word of judgment. Note the judgment of God to both Rahab and Ahab. Read John 3:36. This is God's sure word of judgment. Have you acknowledged Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord?
CHALLENGE1. All the Canaanites knew about Joshua's faithfulness in standing for the Lord. What does your life say? What will your epitaph say about your faithfulness in standing for the Lord? 2. A major doubt or fear or temptation can keep you in despair. It can become a stronghold to keep you from possessing the spiritual land and its blessings. And even when you think it's been conquered, it can rise again. Don't let the walls be built again. There are no walls too high or too thick for God!
KEY VERSES* "Joshua spared Rahab the harlot and her family..." (Joshua 6:25) * "Israel has sinned...therefore they could not stand before their enemies...destroy the accursed from among you." (Joshua 7:11-12) * "...the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout all the country." (Joshua 6:27)