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18 Helpful Tools to Understand the Bible – Notes Download

Why do we need extra-biblical tools to help us understand the Bible?

• Different geography
• Different history
• Different cultures (ancient Near Eastern, first-century Jewish, Greco-Roman)
• Different economics
• Different literacy rates
• Different scientific and philosophical knowledge

Bible Dictionaries

• International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (1915)
• Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible (2000)
• Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary (2015)
• The IVP Bible Dictionary Series
  • Dictionary of OT: Pentateuch (2002)
  • Dictionary of OT: Historical Books (2005)
  • Dictionary of OT: Wisdom, Poetry, & Writings (2008)
  • Dictionary of OT: Prophets (2012)
  • Dictionary of NT Background (2000)
  • Dictionary of Jesus & Gospels (2013)
  • Dictionary of Paul & Letters (2023)
  • Dictionary of the Later NT (1997)

Commentaries

• Fee & Stuart: “Jesus says, ‘…It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.’ You will sometimes hear it said that there was a gate in Jerusalem known as the “Needle’s Eye,” which camels could go through only by kneeling, and with great difficulty. The point of this “interpretation” is that a camel could in fact go through the “Needle’s Eye.” The trouble with this “exegesis,” however, is that it is simply not true. There never was such a gate in Jerusalem at any time in its history. The earliest known “evidence” for this idea is found in the eleventh century(!) in a commentary by a Greek churchman named Theophylact, who had the same difficulty with the text that many later readers do. After all, it is impossible for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, and that was precisely Jesus’ point. It is impossible for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom. It takes a miracle for a rich person to get saved…”1
• Zondervan Illustrated Bible Background Commentary (ZIBBC – 10 vols.)
• New International Commentary (NICOT – 30 vols.; NICNT – 20 vols.)
• New International Greek Testament Commentary (NIGTC – 12 vols.)
• The New Testament for Everyone by N. T. Wright (18 vols.)

Bible Project Videos

• Book Overviews (OT – 39 videos; NT – 26 videos)
• How to Read the Bible (19 videos)
• Themes (41 videos)
• Word Studies (21 videos)
• Many more at com/explore/

Software

• Lots of translations
• Original language resources
• Cross-references
• Outlines
• Search tools
• Accordance & Logos

Search Tools

• Artificial intelligence chat bots (openai.com)
• Crowd sourced websites (info/topics)

Review

• Bible dictionaries and encyclopedias provide short articles on places, individuals, and topics in the Bible.
• Older and free research tools sometimes contain inaccuracies that more recent scholarship has overturned or updated.
• A good commentary tells you the options for interpreting a verse, reasons for each of those options, and a suggestion for which one makes the most sense.
• The Bible Project’s book overview videos are really helpful to get a general understanding of a book of the Bible.
• Bible software on PCs, tablets, and phones provide worldclass research tools to help you study scripture.
• When searching for a phrase, a topic, or something specific, you can use a Bible app, openbible.info, or AI.
• Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014). p. 29.

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17 How to Choose a Bible Translation – Notes Download

Translation basics

• Fee & Stuart: “Your Bible, whatever translation you use, which is your beginning point, is in fact the end result of much scholarly work. Translators are regularly called upon to make choices regarding meanings, and their choices are going to affect how you”1
• “Every translation is a commentary” -Lee Brice

The Bible is in three languages.

1. Hebrew: Old Testament except the Aramaic part
   1. Nearly 99% of the OT (22,945 of 23,213 verses)
2. Aramaic: half of Daniel and two passages in Ezra
   1. Daniel 2.4b-7.28; Ezra 4.8-6.18; 7.12-26
   2. About 1% of the OT (268 of 23,213 verses)
3. Greek: New Testament (all 7,968 verses)

How to begin learning Hebrew or Greek

• Immersion program in Israel or Greece
  • Whole Word Institute offers a 9-month program.
• In-person college class (usually 2 semesters)
  • Local colleges, RTS offers an 8-week summer program.
• In-person classes at a Jewish synagogue or Greek church or community center
• Online program with live instructor
  • Biblical Language Center, Liberty University, etc.
• Digital program with pre-recordings
  • Aleph with Beth (YouTube), Bill Mounce’s DVDcourse, etc.

How to improve your existing knowledge of Hebrew or Greek

• Reading group in-person or online
  • Read a portion each week together.
• Daily dose of Hebrew/Greek/Aramaic
  • Daily YouTube videos of one verse each (email list)
• Read every day.
  • Read the Bible; read devotionals; read comic books (Glossa House produces great resources)
• Watch modern Hebrew and Greek shows.
  • Izzy is like Netflix for Israel/Hebrew
  • Greece has lots of channels streaming online.

Translation process (1 Timothy 2:5 example)

• Greek New Testament (NA28)

Εἷς γὰρ θεός,εἷς καὶ μεσίτης θεοῦ καὶ ἀνθρώπων,ἄνθρωπος Χριστὸς Ἰησοῦς

• Literal translationOne for god,one and mediator of god and men,man Christ Jesus
• Finished translationFor (there is) one God, and (there is) one mediator between God and mankind, (the) man Christ Jesus.

New Testament critical editions

• Nestle Aland 28th Edition (NA28) based on the Editio Critica Maior (ECM), which employs the coherence based genealogical method (CBGM)
• Tyndale House Greek New Testament (THGNT) prioritizes trusted physical manuscripts over the CBGM.

Old Testament critical editions

• Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia (BHS) and the partially completed Biblia Hebraica Quinta (BHQ) print the Leningrad Codex in the main text, but include alternative readings in the footnotes.
• Hebrew Bible Critical Edition (HBCE) by Ronald Mendel is a project of the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) to develop a critical edition.

Resources to see decisions about alternative readings

• NET Bible (accessible at org)
• New Testament Text and Commentary by Philip Comfort
• A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament by Bruce Metzger

Formal equivalence translation philosophy

• Fee & Strauss: “If the Greek or Hebrew text uses an infinitive, the English translation will use an infinitive. When the Greek or Hebrew has a prepositional phrase, so will the English…The goal of this translational theory is formal correspondence as much as possible.”2
• Ron Rhodes: “Formal equivalence translations can also be trusted not to mix too much commentary in with the text derived from the original Hebrew and Greek manuscripts. To clarify, while all translation entails some interpretation, formal equivalence translations keep to a minimum in intermingling interpretive additives into the text. As one scholar put it, ‘An essentially literal translation operates on the premise that a translator is a steward of what someone else has written, not an editor and exegete who needs to explain or correct what someone else has written.’”3

Dynamic equivalence translation philosophy

• Ron Rhodes: “Dynamic equivalence translations generally use shorter words, shorter sentences, and shorter paragraphs. They use easy vocabulary and use simple substitutes for theological and cultural terminology. They often convert culturally dependent figures of speech into easy, direct statements. They seek to avoid ambiguity as well as biblical jargon in favor of a natural English style. Translators concentrate on transferring meaning rather than mere words from one language to another.”4

Formal vs. dynamic comparison

• Formal Equivalence Dynamic Equivalence
• Formal Correspondence Functional Equivalence
• Word for Word Thought for Thought
• Literal Readable
• Transparent to Originals Replicates Experience
• Transfer Interpretation Interpretation Built In
• Accurate Easy to Understand

Formal equivalence Bibles

• ESV: English Standard Version
• NASB: New American Standard Bible
• LSB: Legacy Standard Bible
• NRSV: New Revised Standard Version
• HCSB: Holman Christian Standard Bible

Gender Accuracy5

• “Man” used to mean “men and women”
• “Men” used to mean “men and women”
• “he” used to mean “he or she”
• Translations are changing with the changes in the English language so that female readers recognize the relevance of scripture to them
• See Eph 4:28; Mat 11:15; etc.

Combatting bias

• To combat bias, look at translations from different thought camps.
• Evangelical: NIV, NLT, ESV, NASB, NET, CSB, HCSB, LEB MSG, Passion, Amplified, LSB, CEV, TEV/GNT, NCV, NIrV
• Jewish: JPS, KJB, Stone, Robert Altar, Shocken
• Catholic: NABRE, NAB, RNJB, NJB, JB, Douay-Rheims
• Mainline: NRSV, NEB, NKJ, RSV, ASV, KJV
• Unitarian: REV, NWT, Diaglott, KGV, Buzzard, NEV

Review

• If you can, learn the biblical languages so you can read the actual words of scripture rather than depending on a translation.
• Translations of the New Testament depend on the Greek critical text known as the Nestle Aland 28th edition (NA28).
• Translations of the Old Testament depend on the Leningrad Codex, which is printed in the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia (BHS) and the partially complete Biblia Hebraica Quinta (BHQ). In addition, translators of the Old Testament are expected to look through the footnotes and commentary in these resources to judge readings from other sources.
• Over generations, textual critics have developed strategies and computer tools to more closely approximate the original text. As a result, newer critical texts contain reconstructions of an older stage of the text.
• Translation is the art of rendering a source text into a receptor language accurately.
• Formal equivalence translations focus on transparency to the source text and a minimum of added interpretation.
• Dynamic equivalence translations focus on readability in the receptor language. They seek clarity over ambiguity.
• Formal equivalence translations are safer, because they leave it up to the reader to figure out what a text means. However, they can contain awkward English and be difficult to read.
• Gender accuracy refers to the translation practice of including the feminine when a hypothetical singular masculine pronoun can refer to either sex or when masculine plurals include both genders.
• Bias is intrinsic to translation, especially with reference to doctrines that are widely held by committee members.
• The best way to expose and combat bias is to check translations from different thought camps. Although evangelical translations are better known, checking Jewish, mainline, Catholic, and unitarian translations provides a helpful corrective.
• Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014), 23.
• Gordon Fee and Mark Strauss, How to Choose a Translation for All Its Worth (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2007), p. 26.
• Ron Rhodes, The Complete Guide to Bible Translations (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 2009), p. 30. Quotation from Leland Ryken, Choosing a Bible (Wheaton: Crossway, 2005), p. 27.
• Ron Rhodes, The Complete Guide to Bible Translations (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 2009), pp.32-33.
• For a much deeper dive into this interesting topic, see session 15 from How We Got the Bible: Gender in Bible Translation, available on lhim.org or on YouTube.

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The General Epistles

• Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, Jude
• Some consider Hebrews to be Pauline, but even if Paul wrote it, it’s not to a church or a pastor, so it still fits as a general epistle
• 2 John and 3 John are technical to specific individuals and thus not general epistles

Hebrews

• Authorship
  • Evidence for Paul
    • Associated with Timothy and Rome (Heb 13:23-24)
    • Pauline themes
  • Evidence against Paul
    • Non-Pauline themes
    • Ancient uncertainty (Origen, Eusebius, etc.)
    • Non-standard opening
    • Not an eyewitness (Heb 2:3)
  • Daniel Wallace suggested Barnabas with help from Apollos.
• Audience
  • As title indicates, the audience was Jewish.
  • Persecuted (Heb 10:32-36)
• Occasion
  • Became aware of some falling away from faith (Heb 3:6; 4:14; 6:4-6; 10:23, 26-27)
  • Concern that they will return to Judaism
• Purpose
  • Convince Jewish Christians to endure in the faith instead of falling away (presumably back into Judaism)
• Mode
  • Show that Jesus is better
  • Ch 1: Jesus as God’s promised Messiah is better than the angels who gave the Law.
  • Ch 2: Jesus’ salvation is better b/c he is human.
  • Ch 3: Jesus is better than Moses.
  • Ch 7: Jesus’ priesthood is better than Aaron’s.
  • Ch 8: Jesus’ covenant is better than the old covenant b/c it has better promises.
  • Ch 9: Jesus’ heavenly priestly service is better than the priests serving at the temple on earth.
  • Ch 10: Jesus’ sacrifice is better than animal sacrifices.
  • Ch 11: The unshakable Mt. Zion covenant is better than the covenant at Mt. Sinai.
  • Overall rhetorical effect to ask, “Why in the world would Christ-followers want to downgrade to Judaism after they’ve tasted something so much better?”

1 John

• Authorship
  • No author in the document itself (1 John 1:1)
  • Early Christians refer to this letter as written by John
    • Irenaeus (a.d. 180) attributed the Gospel of John and 1 John to “John, the disciple of the Lord”1
    • Later Christians agreed, including Tertullian, Clement of Alexandria, Origen, and the Muratorian Canon
    • Eusebius says, “But of John’s writings, in addition to the Gospel, the first of the letters is unambiguously accepted [as genuine] both by people today and by the ancients” (H.E. 3.24.17)2
  • Definitely the same John who wrote the Gospel of John (John the Apostle)
    • Same vocabulary and writing style
  • Audience
    • Christians that John is worried about
  • Occasion: concern over rogue Christians
    • “They went out from us, but they did not belong to us”(1 John 2:19).
    • They are trying to deceive the regular Christians (2:26; 3:7).
    • Many false prophets have gone out (4:1).
    • They are denying that Jesus is the Christ (2:22).
    • They may have been teaching that sin is ok (3:7-10).
  • Purpose
    • Equip Christians to discern and resist false teachings
    • Encourage them to
      • Live righteously
      • Believe correctly about Jesus
      • Love one another
    • Mode
      • Christology
        • “Confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh” (4:2)
        • “Testify that the Father has sent his son as the savior of the world” (4:14).
        • “Confess that Jesus is the son of God” (4:15)
        • “Believes that Jesus is the Christ” (5:1)
        • “Believes that Jesus is the son of God” (5:5)
        • “Believes in the son of God” (5:10)
        • “Life is in his son” (5:11)
        • “Believe in the name of the son of God” (5:13)
      • Behavior (1 John 3:7-10)
        • “It is unlikely that John has in mind absolute sinless perfection, since earlier he has denounced those who say they are without sin (1:8, 10). Rather, John has in mind the blatant sinning to which those who have left the community have fallen prey (2:19). In view of the letter as a whole, such sinning probably involves denial of Christ’s human nature (4:2-3; theological lapse), flaunting of God’s (or Christ’s) commands (2:4; ethical lapse), failure to love (4:20; relational lapse), or some combination of these grave errors.”3
        • Many appeals to live righteously (1 John 1:.5-6; 2:1-6; 3:4-10, 23-24; 5:18)
        • Live differently than the world (1 John 2:15-17; 3:1, 13; 4:4-6; 5:4-5, 19)
        • Love your brother/sister in Christ (1 John 2:10-11; 3:11, 14-18; 4:7-12, 16-21; 5:1-3)

Review

• General epistles are for Christians in general rather than a specific church or person.
• In order to understand the general epistles, it’s helpful to figure out authorship, audience, occasion, purpose, and mode.
• Authorship is explicit for James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude, but takes some work to figure out for Hebrews and 1-3 John.
• Hebrews was probably not written by Paul but by someone who spent time with him like Priscilla, Luke, Barnabas, or Apollos.
• Audience and occasion are often intertwined and determinable by gleaning bits of historical information from the epistles themselves. As you read, ask yourself, “Who was the original audience?” and “What was going on with them?”
• To discern the purpose, ask, “What is the author’s main goal in this epistle?”
• Mode is answering the question, “How does the author go about achieving his purpose?”
• Once you’ve figured out the author, audience, occasion, purpose, and mode, understanding the rest of the epistle’s particulars is much easier.
• Irenaeus, Against Heresies 3.16.5, 8. ANF translation.
• Eusebius, 148.
• Yarbrough, Robert. “1 John” in Hebrews to Revelation, vol 4 of ZIBBCNT, ed. Clinton E. Arnold (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002), 176-212.

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Letters in the First Century

• Letters written on papyrus with ink by a professional scribe (amanuensis)
• Though most letters that have survived from the ancient world were short and to the point, Paul’s Epistles are extremely long.
• Because there was no postal system, someone had to carry the letter to its destination.
• Upon arrival, most people couldn’t read, so a professional would need to read it aloud.
• This was difficult because there were no chapters, verses, paragraphs, punctuation, or spaces between words (scriptio continua).

NameGreek WordsEnglish WordsVersesChaptersRomans71139506432161 Corinthians68329532437162 Corinthians4480616025713Galatians223232271496Ephesians242430471556Philippians163122611044Colossians158319939541 Thessalonians148419088952 Thessalonians8261065473Church Epistles in Chronological Order

• Galatians 48
• 1 Thessalonians 49-51
• 2 Thessalonians 49-51
• 1 Corinthians 53-55
• 2 Corinthians 53-55
• Romans 57
• Philippians 62
• Colossians 62
• Ephesians 62

Developing Your Knowledge of the Greco-Roman World

• Get background books like The World of the New Testament by Green and McDonald and Zondervan’s Illustrated Bible Background Commentary by Clinton Arnold.
• Read the literature that has survived. Hundreds of volumes are available in the Loeb Classical Library.
• Learn about archeology in the Mediterranean world around the time of Christ (Biblical Archeological Review).
• Take a tour to visit the sites in Greece and Turkey (Spirit and Truth International).
• Study the geography of the region on maps that show the correct place names for the first century.

Deciphering the Occasion

• Each letter arose out of a specific circumstance. What was going on among the Christians in that city that caused Paul to write?
• Galatians: Judaizers had visited churches Paul founded, telling people they needed to follow the law of Moses.
• 1 Corinthians: Chloe sent word of divisions in Corinth; Paul also received a letter asking specific questions.
• 2 Corinthians: false teachers had ensconced themselves in Corinth who criticized and undermined Paul.
• Philippians: Epaphroditus brought Paul financial assistance from Philippi.

Reading the Church Epistles

• The first time through, just get your bearings. Read for scope.
• What’s going on in that church? What’s going on in that city? What are their concerns? What are the doctrinal errors that Paul is correcting?
• The second time through, read more slowly, paying attention to major units of thought (usually paragraphs). Ask yourself how each section contributes to the whole.
• Sometimes it is difficult to understand a particular sentence or phrase.
  • 1 Cor 15:29 “baptism on behalf of the dead”
  • 1 Cor 11:10 “because of the angels”
• No one understands everything. It’s more important to get the main point than understand every little nuance.

Form of ancient letters1

1. Author(s)
2. Recipient(s)
3. Greeting
4. Prayer/thanksgiving
5. Content
6. Final greeting(s) and farewell

Content Section

• These Epistles are loaded with theology and practical application.
• Not systematic theologies, neatly organized
• Rather, they move from topic to topic based on the need of the congregation, oftentimes based on a previous (now lost) letter or communication they made to Paul.
• Romans and Ephesians come closest to laying out a theological system.

Application

• What is Paul asking them to do?
• Are my particulars similar enough to say this instruction applies to me as well?
• How much of what he said is culturally conditioned?
• Can I derive a principle that applies in general today?

Review

• Sending long letters in the Roman world was expensive and difficult due to the cost of materials, the skill required to write, and the need to have someone carry and read your letter aloud to the recipients.
• Paul sent the Church Epistles to Christian churches living in major Greco-Roman cities.
• We know much about the culture, politics, and geography of these cities due to surviving literature, archeological discoveries, and the ability to travel to them.
• Deciphering the occasion for which Paul wrote is the single most beneficial piece of information to help you understand an Epistle’s overarching purpose.
• As you read through an Epistle for the first time, try to get the big picture. Then as you read through it again, try to figure out how each section relates to the whole.
• It’s ok not to understand a particular verse. It’s more important to understand the point Paul is making rather than the particulars.
• When applying the Epistles to your life, look for comparable circumstances and general principles.
• See Fee & Stuart, p. 59

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12 How to Read Acts Download

Luke wrote Acts.

• Acts 1:1-2
• Acts is the second volume.
• Luke is about the life of Christ.
• Acts is about the early expansion of the church.

Major events of Acts

1. 1:1-11 Jesus commissions and ascends.
2. 1:12-27 Peter initiates replacing Judas.
3. 2:1-47 Spirit is poured out, and Peter preaches.
4. 3:1-26 Peter heals lame man and preaches.
5. 4:1-6:7 Communal living in Jerusalem
6. 6:8-7:60 Stephen’s martyrdom
7. 8:1-40 Philip’s expansion to Samaria, Ethiopia
8. 9:1-31 Paul’s conversion, expansion to Damascus
9. 9:32-9:43 Peter’s mission to Lydda and Joppa
10. 10:1-11:18 Peter converts Cornelius in Caesarea.
11. 11:19-30 Barnabas brings Paul to Antioch.
12. 12:1-24 Peter’s arrest and miraculous escape
13. 12:25-16:5 Paul’s 1st missionary journey
14. 16:6-19:20 Paul’s 2nd missionary journey
15. 19:21-21:17 Paul’s 3rd missionary journey
16. 21:18-28:31 Paul’s arrest and trip to Rome

Organization of the book

• The first half is about Peter (1-12).
• The second half is about Paul (13-28).
• Acts 1:8 outlines the book: they expanded from Jerusalem to Judea to Samaria to the ends of the earth.

Leading and experience of God’s spirit

• Baptized with the spirit, filled with the spirit, pour out the spirit, receive the spirit, spirit fell upon: 1:5, 8; 2:4, 17; 4:31; 8:17; 9:17; 10:44-45; 11:15-16; 13:52
• Speaking in tongues; prophecy: 2:4, 17-18; 10:46; 11:28; 19:6; 20:22-23; 27:21-22
• Exorcisms: 5:16; 8:7; 16:18; 19:12-16
• Healing and miracles: 3:6-7; 5:12, 15-16; 8:39; 9:17-18, 34-35; 12:7-10; 13:11; 14:10; 19:11; 20:9-10; 28:3-6, 8-9
• Supernatural direction: 1:16, 26; 8:26, 29; 9:10-16; 13:2; 15:28; 16:7; 18:9-10; 20:28; 21:11; 23:11; 27:23-24

Rapid expansion through conversion

• Convert 3,000 on day of Pentecost (2:41)
• 5,000 after healing lame man at the temple (4:4)
• Conversions of whole towns: Samaria (8), Lydda, and Joppa (9)
• Conversions of key people: Ethiopian treasurer (8); Paul of Tarsus (9); Cornelius the centurion (10); Sergius Paulus, proconsul of Cyprus, (13); Lydia, a wealthy Philippian merchant, (16); Crispus, a synagogue leader in Corinth, (18); Publius of Malta (28)

Perseverance through persecution

• Sadducees arrest Peter and John (4).
• Sadducees arrest apostles (5).
• A mob stones Stephen (7).
• Paul leads persecution in Jerusalem (8).
• King Herod executes James (12).
• King Herod imprisons Peter (12).
• Jewish leaders expel Paul and Barnabas from Pisidian Antioch (13).
• Jewish leaders stone Paul at Lystra (14).
• City magistrates arrest Paul and Silas at Philippi (16).
• Jewish mob attacks Jason at Thessalonica (17).
• Jewish leaders accuse Paul before Proconsul Gallio at Corinth (18).
• Demetrius instigates riot against Paul at Ephesus (19).
• Jewish mob attacks Paul at Jerusalem (21).
• Plot of Jewish leaders to murder Paul (23)
• Paul’s trial before Felix (24)
• Paul’s trial before Festus (25)
• Paul’s defense before King Agrippa (26)
• Paul’s shipwreck (27)
• Paul’s house arrest at Rome (28)

Respectful of Roman authorities

• Paul is respectful to his arresting officer, Claudius, (21:33, 37-40).
• He asserts his Roman citizenship (22:24-29).
• He cordially converses with Felix, Roman governor of Judea, (24).
• Paul appeals to have a trial before Caesar in Rome b/c he’s afraid he won’t get a fair hearing in Judea.
• Paul interacts respectfully with Festus and King Agrippa.
• King Agrippa says Paul should’ve been set free (26:31-32).
• Paul complies on the whole journey while under arrest.

Including the Gentiles

• Originally, Christianity was 100% Jewish.
• Gentiles (non-Jews) began believing in Jesus, and God demonstrated his acceptance through his spirit (see Acts 10:44-45).
• Both Peter and Paul preached to Gentiles and accepted them as part of God’s family.
• After a disagreement broke out over the Gentiles (Acts 15:1-2), the disciples decided Gentiles could be part of the church without keeping the law.

Acts is the historical spine of the NT

• Acts tells you about how Christianity came to many places mentioned in other parts of the NT.
• On Paul’s second missionary journey, he visited Galatia, Philippi, Thessalonica, Corinth, and Ephesus. These are all places to which he wrote Epistles.

Prescriptive vs. descriptive

• Does Acts prescribe how we should live or describe what they did?
• Acts 2:44-46 talks about sharing all our possessions. Is this normative for all Christians for all time?
• Fee & Stuart: “Unless Scripture explicitly tells us we must do something, what is only narrated or described does not function in a normative (i.e. obligatory) way—unless it can be demonstrated on other grounds that the author intended it to function in this way.”1

Review

• Acts is a history of the church that Luke wrote to follow his biography of Christ.
• Acts describes the spread of Christianity from Jerusalem to Judea to Samaria to the ends of the earth (i.e. the Mediterranean world).
• In Acts, Luke is interested in the activity of God’s spirit, missionary activity resulting in conversions, and how Christians are respectful to Roman authorities.
• The inclusion of Gentiles into the early Christian movement caused a significant controversy, resulting in the decision that they did not need to keep the law.
• Acts provides the historical backbone into which fit many of the Epistles of the NT.
• Luke tells of Paul’s three missionary journeys, as well as his final treacherous journey to Rome under arrest.
• Although Acts shows us what is possible as we walk with God, it does not prescribe that Christians today must do everything the way they did it (descriptive not prescriptive).
• Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014), 124.

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The Four Gospels

• Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
• Gospel = good news
• The Gospels are biographies about Jesus which seek to convince readers about the good news that he is the Messiah.

Basic Storyline of the Gospels

1. Birth narratives
2. John’s ministry
3. John baptizes Jesus.
4. Jesus calls the twelve.
5. Teachings of Jesus
6. Miracles of Jesus
7. Conflict with critics
8. Triumphal entry
9. Intensified conflict
10. Last supper
11. Arrest, trial, execution
12. Resurrection appearances
13. Great commission

Mark (11,305 words)

• Papias: “And the elder used to say this: ‘Mark, having become Peter’s interpreter, wrote down accurately everything he remembered, though not in order, of the things either said or done by Christ. For he neither heard the Lord nor followed him, but afterward, as I said, followed Peter, who adapted his teachings as needed but had no intention of giving an ordered account of the Lord’s sayings. Consequently Mark did nothing wrong in writing down some things as he remembered them, for he made it his one concern not to omit anything that he heard or to make any false statement in them.’”1

John (15,633 words)

• Purpose statement: John 20:30-3130 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples that are not written in this book. 31 But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.

Matthew (18,348 words)

• Five blocks of teaching
  • 5-7 Sermon on the Mount
  • 10 Missionary Instruction
  • 13 Parables of the Kingdom
  • 18 Discourse on the Church
  • 24-25 Olivet Discourse

Luke (19,483 words)

• Luke’s method: Luke 1:1-41 Since many have undertaken to compile a narrative about the events that have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, 3 I, too, decided, as one having a grasp of everything from the start, to write a well-ordered account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 so that you may have a firm grasp of the words in which you have been instructed.
• Luke’s historical precision: Luke 3:1-21 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene, 2 during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness.

The Synoptic Gospels

• Matthew, Mark, and Luke
• Matthew and Luke quote Mark extensively.
• Both quote another source of sayings as well.
• Still, much of Matthew and Luke is unique to them.
• Fee & Stuart: “Take, for example, the fact that there is such a high degree of verbal similarity among Matthew, Mark, and Luke in their narratives, as well as in their recording of the sayings of Jesus. Remarkable verbal similarities should not surprise us about the sayings of the one who spoke as no one ever did (John 7:46). But for this to carry over to the narratives is something else again—especially so when one considers (1) that these stories were first told in Aramaic, yet we are talking about the use of Greek words; (2) that Greek word order is extremely free, yet often the similarities extend even to precise word order; and (3) that it is highly unlikely that three people in three different parts of the Roman Empire would tell the same story with the same words—even to such minor points of individual style as prepositions and conjunctions.”2
• Fee & Stuart: “The best explanation of all the data is …that Mark wrote his gospel first, probably in part at least from his recollection of Peter’s preaching and teaching. Luke and Matthew had access to Mark’s gospel and independently used it as the basic source for their own. But they also had access to all kinds of other material about Jesus, some of which they had in common. This common material, however, is scarcely ever presented in the same order in the two gospels, a fact suggesting that neither one had access to the other’s writing. Finally, John wrote independently of the other three, and thus his gospel has little material in common with them. This, we would note, is how the Holy Spirit inspired the writing of the Gospels. …[W]ith the Spirit’s help, they creatively structured and rewrote the materials to meet the needs of their readers.”3

Kingdom of God

• Understanding what Jesus meant by the kingdom of God is critical
• Fee & Stuart: “[T]he major hermeneutical difficulty lies with understanding “the kingdom of God,” a term that is absolutely crucial to the whole of Jesus’ ministry…”4
• Likely, Jesus was pulling from Daniel who prophesies extensively about God’s kingdom coming to earth (Dan 2:44; 7:26-27)

Parables

• Short fictional stories that make a point
• Get the main point; don’t get lost in trying to find a meaning for every aspect of the story.
• Jesus told some parables to hide truth from those who didn’t want it.
• He told others to teach his disciples important truth simply and effectively.
• Still others, he told as zingers to confront his critics.

Word of God

• The Bible does not typically call itself “the word”.
• “The word” is the message Jesus preached to repent due to the coming Kingdom.
• He wasn’t telling his Jewish listeners to repent and believe in the Bible, since they already believed in it.
• Compare Mark 4:13-15; Luke 8:11-12; Mat 13:19
• Word = word of God = word of the Kingdom

Application

• Must discern between the sayings Jesus limited to the people in front of him at that time and those that remain applicable to all his followers today
• Mat 10:9-11 tells his disciples not to carry any money with them. Does that mean true Christians don’t use money and just mooch off their neighbors?
• Luke 6:27-28 tells us to love our enemies, a commandment repeated in Mat 5:43-48; Rom 12:17-21; 1 Pet 3:9-11 and exemplified by Jesus’ actions.

Review

• The NT begins with four evangelistic biographies of Jesus called Gospels.
• Mark is the shortest Gospel. Its action-packed narrative is probably derived from Peter’s recollections as well as God’s direction via his spirit.
• John is the most theologically developed, and it contains monologues where Jesus talks about himself and his relationship to his Father.
• Matthew showcases Jesus as a Rabbi who teaches his followers how to live in light of the Kingdom of God.
• Luke was a careful historian who made an effort to present a “well-ordered account” to present the life of Christ to a noble Roman audience.
• The Kingdom of God is the core of Jesus’ message and ministry. It refers to a coming age when God sets everything wrong with the world right.
• Jesus’ favorite self-title was “Son of Man,” which could either mean a human being or the ruler of the coming Kingdom.
• Parables are short fictional stories told to make a point.
• In the Gospels, the “word” refers to the message Jesus preached about the Kingdom of God, not the Bible in general.
• Although it’s hard to be sure, most think Matthew and Luke used Mark as a source as well as another sayings source.
• In order to discern what sayings of Jesus apply to you, consider the circumstances in which they were given, whether other parts of the NT repeat the statement, and what Jesus’ example can tell you.
• Fragments of Papias 3.15 in Apostolic Fathers, trans. Michael Holmes, 3rd ed. (Grand Rapids, Baker Academic, 2007).
• Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014), 141.
• Stuart, 142.
• Stuart, 132.

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Lesson 10 Notes Download

Recent History

• Persians: Cyrus the Great
• Greeks: Alexander the Great, Antiochus Epiphanes
• Hellenization (2 Maccabees 4.7, 10-15; 1 Maccabees 1.41-53)
• Maccabean Revolution: Mattathias, Judah the Maccabee, Jonathan Apphus, Simon Thassi, John Hyrcanus, Aristobulus I, Alexander Jannaeus, Salome Alexandra, Hyrcanus II, Aristobulus II
• Romans: Pompey the Great annexed Judea in 63bc
• Herodian Dynasty: Herod the Great and his descendants

Geographical and Political Setting

• Roman Empire: Augustus (27bc-ad14), Tiberius (14-37), Caligula (37-41), Claudius (41-54), Nero (54-68)
• Provinces: every region outside of Italy
• Galilee: Herod the Great (37-4bc), Herod Antipas (4bc-ad39), Herod Agrippa I (37-44)
• Judea: Herod the Great (37-4bc), Herod Archelaus (4bc-ad6), Coponius (6-9), Marcus Ambivulus (9-12), Annius Rufus (12-15), Valerius Gratus (15-26), Pontius Pilate (26-36), Marcellus (36-37), Marullus (37-41), Herod Agrippa I (41-44)
• Samaria: under Judean jurisdiction; Samaritans and Jews conflicted with each other

Jewish Groups

• Sadducees
  • controlled the temple
  • partners with Roman governors
  • wealthy aristocrats
  • chief priests were the leaders
  • only accepted the Torah as scripture
  • didn’t believe in resurrection or angels
• Pharisees
  • focused on obedience to Torah
  • accepted the law (Torah), prophets (Nevi’im), and writings (Kethuvim)
  • oral tradition & fence laws
  • not in power at the time of Jesus, except those in the Sanhedrin
• Sanhedrin
  • Romans established 5 councils over 5 districts
  • most important council was in Jerusalem
  • had temple police at their disposal to arrest people
  • could meet out punishments except capital punishment, which was reserved for the Roman governor
• Scribes
  • every group had scribes
  • even Paul used scribes to write his letters (Tertius in Rom 16.22)
  • writing was a skill
  • copy scripture to preserve it
  • called lawyers or experts in the law
• Revolutionaries
  • wanted to overthrow Roman occupation
  • Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews23“But of the fourth sect of Jewish philosophy, Judas the Galilean was the author. These men agree in all other things with the Pharisaic notions; but they have an inviolable attachment to liberty; and say that God is to be their only Ruler and Lord. They also do not value dying any kind of death, nor indeed do they heed the deaths of their relations and friends, nor can any such fear make them call any man Lord”
• John’s Renewal Movement
  • called people to repent
  • baptized them in the Jordan River
  • possible connection with the Essenes

Important Issues

• Temple
• Taxes
• Torah
• Unrest

Review

• When the Greeks conquered the world, they made cities adopt their customs, culture, language, and religion.
• When Antiochus Epiphanes forcibly Hellenized Judah, it resulted in the Maccabean Revolution under Mattathias and his sons.
• After they won their independence, the Hasmonean Dynasty ruled up until 63bc when Pompey annexed Judea into the Roman Empire.
• Herod the Great and his descendants ruled over the region for many years, though in Judea the Romans directly ruled through governors.
• During Jesus’ ministry Herod Antipas ruled in Galilee and Pontius Pilate governed Judea and Samaria.
• Sadducees partnered with the Roman government and controlled the temple.
• The Pharisees focused on obedience to Torah, according to the traditions of the elders.
• The Sanhedrin was a council in Jerusalem made of Sadducees and Pharisees that controlled a police force and ruled on legal issues.
• Scribes copied scripture and had expert knowledge of the Law of Moses.
• Jesus lived in a time of fragile peace when Roman provocations threatened to light the match of Jewish revolution at any moment.

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Canonical Arrangement

• 5 Major Prophets
• Isaiah
• Jeremiah
• Lamentations
• Ezekiel
• Daniel
• 12 Minor Prophets
• Hosea
• Joel
• Amos
• Obadiah
• Jonah
• Micah
• Nahum
• Habakkuk
• Zephaniah
• Haggai
• Zechariah
• Malachi

Chronological Arrangement

• early pre-exilic: Amos, Hosea, Jonah, Micah, Isaiah
• late pre-exilic: Nahum, Zephaniah, Obadiah, Joel, Habakkuk, Jeremiah
• exilic: Ezekiel, Daniel
• post-exilic: Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi

Setting

• The historical context is helpful
• In Jer 1.1-3, Jeremiah prophecies during the last days of the kingdom. He’s the last chance for the people to repent. Since they go into exile anyhow, it’s easy to anticipate that the people will not respond to Jeremiah.

The Prophet

• God calls prophets into his service (Jer 1.4-6)
• oftentimes, the prophet has access to the king and speaks to him
• competition with false prophets (Jer 28.1-3, 15-17)

Acting out prophecies

• Ezekiel
  • built a model of Jerusalem and acted out a siege against it (Ezek 4.1-3)
  • lay on his side for 390 days (Ezek 4.4-5)
  • cooked his food over animal excrement (Ezek 4.12, 14-15)
• Jeremiah
  • shattered a piece of pottery (Jer 19.10-11)
  • wore an oxen yoke around (Jer 27.2)
  • bought a property while city is under siege (Jer 32.24-25)
• Isaiah
  • walked barefoot and naked for 3 years (Is 20.2-4)
• Hosea
  • married an unfaithful prostitute to illustrate God’s relationship w/ Israel who kept cheating on him with idols (Hos 1.2)

Preaching to the People

• fidelity to the Torah, the covenant
• justice in business dealings and courts
• take care of the vulnerable quartet (Jer 22.11-16)
• practice moral and ritual aspects of religion (Jer 7.4-10)
• avoid fake righteousness and hypocrisy (Jer 9.8)
• do not worship idols (Jer 7.16-18)

Prophesies of the Future

• near judgment or restoration
  • judgment upon nations (Edom, Egypt, Syria, etc.)
  • use Assyrians/Babylonians to judge Israel/Judah
  • return to the land and enjoy covenant blessings
  • be faithful or lose the land again
• eschatological judgment and restoration
  • a Davidic king will rule wisely and execute justice
  • healing for the lame, deaf, blind, etc.
  • healing for the land, especially the deserts
  • abundance and prosperity
  • peace among the nations
  • no need for militaries or even training for war
  • peace among the animals
  • elimination of death itself

Prophets Reveal God’s Heart

• God is a lover
• prophets express God’s emotions
• lots of colorful language
• God provides hope for the remnant

Review

• The prophets make up a huge portion of the Old Testament (17 books)
• Some prophets served before the exile, others during the exile, and others after the exile.
• Pay attention to the historical context, including who was king and what was happening with Israel or Judah.
• Prophets are commissioned by God to speak his words to his people and his king.
• The prophets sometimes had encounters with false prophets who challenged their message and authority.
• A prophet’s predictions served to authenticate or disprove their legitimacy.
• The prophets fought injustice, especially the exploitation of the quartet of the vulnerable: the widow, the orphan, the sojourner, and the poor.
• The prophets railed against idolatry and hypocrisy.
• Yet they also prophesied about the coming kingdom judgement and restoration, offering hope for the remnant.

Because the prophets were close to God, they reveal his heart in a way no other part of the Bible does.

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Lesson 8 Notes

Basic Facts

• Phenomenal for devotional reading, emotional connection
• 150 total psalms
• Called psalms, not chapters (Psalm 50:4 not Psalms 50:4)
• Authors: David (73), Asaph (12), Sons of Korah (11), Heman the Ezrahite (1), Ethan the Ezrahite (1), Moses (1), Solomon (2), Anonymous (49)
• Book 1: 1-41
• Book 2: 42-72
• Book 3: 73-89
• Book 4: 90-106
• Book 5: 107-150
• David reassigned the Levites to develop a music ministry to worship God (1 Chron 16:4-6, 41-42).

Chesed

• כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ (1 Chron 16:41) for his chesed (is) forever.
• הוֹדוּ לַיהוָה כִּי־טוּב כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ (Ps 118:1) O give thanks to Yahweh for (he is) good for his chesed (is) forever.
• chesed is an extremely important word in the Psalms.
• “EVV [English versions] translate chesed by expressions such as ‘steadfast love’ and ‘constant love.’ It is sometimes described as covenant love, though in the OT it rarely appears in the company of the word ‘covenant.’ It is used in two connections: when someone makes an act of commitment for which there is no reason in terms of prior relationship, and when someone keeps their commitment when they might be expected to abandon it (e.g., because the other person has done so). It is the Hebrew equivalent to the Greek agape.”1

Walter Brueggemann’s Three Kinds of Psalms

1. Orientation: celebrate order in creation and in morality (Psalm 8)
2. Disorientation: complaints about injustice and God’s inactivity (Psalm 88)
3. Reorientation: renewed sense of trust; thanksgiving for deliverance (Psalm 30)
4. The psalms nicely compliment the various types of wisdom literature we covered last time.

14 Types of Psalms

1. Praise Psalms
2. Historical Psalms
3. Torah Psalms
4. Creation Psalms
5. Royal Psalms
6. Enthronement Psalms
7. Wisdom Psalms
8. Prophecy Psalms
9. Trust Psalms
10. Petition Psalms
11. Complaint Psalms
12. Repentance Psalms
13. Imprecatory Psalms
14. Thanksgiving Psalms

Hebrew Poetry

• Word play
• Acrostic psalms
• Thought rhyming instead of word rhyming
• Synonymous parallelism
• Antithetical parallelism
• Synthetic parallelism

Transliterated Terms

• Selah (71x) may mean a pause (perhaps for a musical interlude).
• Maskil (13x), miktam (6x), gittith (3x), alamoth (1x), higgaion (1x), and shiggaion (1x) were probably musical instructions of some sort.

Lectio Divina (Divine Reading)

1. First reading
   1. Read the psalm or a section of it twice.
   2. Pause to reflect on what you read.
2. Second reading
   1. Read text once.
   2. Look for a verse or phrase that sticks out to you.
   3. Pause and reflect on that phrase turning it over in your mind
3. Third reading
   1. Read text once.
   2. Ask God what he wants you to do in relation to the phrase you have been contemplating.
   3. Listen for a response.

Review

• The book of Psalms contains 150 poems, songs, and prayers written by several different authors, divided into five books.
• More psalms are associated with David than anyone else (73). He was responsible for tasking the Levites with praising God through music.
• A key reason to praise God in the Psalms is because his chesed (steadfast love) endures forever.
• Psalms of orientation celebrate the orderliness of creation and the moral universe.
• Psalms of disorientation cry out for help amidst times of injustice, persecution, and suffering.
• Psalms of reorientation thank God for his deliverance in a situation.
• The many kinds of psalms are for you to use when you go through similar blessings, trials, doubts, and deliverances.
• Lectio Divina is an ancient meditative practice that you can use to get more out of the psalms you read.

Appendix: All the psalms categorized by type

TypesDescriptionPsalms1praiseextolling God for his character and actions23, 24, 34, 46, 67, 76, 95, 100, 103, 111, 117, 139, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 1502historicaloverviews of interactions between God and his people78, 81, 89, 105, 106, 114, 132, 135, 1363Torahpoems about the Torah and the benefits of obedience1, 19, 112, 1194creationsongs about the well-ordered creation8, 19, 65, 104, 1485royalpoems about the king; messianic psalms2, 20, 21, 45, 61, 72, 101?, 110, 144?, 149?6enthronmentpoems about God sitting on his throne and ruling9, 24, 29, 33, 47, 50?, 93, 96, 97, 98, 99, 102?, 113, 145, 1467wisdomextolling wisdom and disparanging folly1, 14, 15, 37, 49, 52, 53, 73, 90, 101, 112, 127, 128,8prophecywords spoken by God to the people2, 50, 81, 82, 91, 108, 110, 1329trustexpressing confidence in what God will do57, 61, 62, 63, 68, 69, 71, 73, 77, 82, 85, 91, 94, 102, 115, 121, 125, 13110petitionasking for deliverance (usually from enemies)3, 6, 7, 17, 22, 25, 26, 27, 31, 36, 40, 41, 54, 56, 59, 60, 69, 70, 79, 86, 108, 123, 141, 142, 143, 14411complaintcomplaining, asking “how long?” “why?” etc.13, 42, 43, 44, 60, 74, 80, 88, 89, 12012repentancerepenting from sinful action(s)32, 38, 39, 51, 13013imprecatorywishing God to harm one’s enemies5, 10, 11, 12, 28, 35, 55, 58, 69, 70, 79, 83, 109, 129, 137, 14014thanksgivingthanking God for the deliverance he has provided4, 16, 18, 30, 40, 64, 65, 66, 75, 92, 107, 116, 118, 124, 13815Zion, pilgrimagesongs praising Zion/Jerusalem or talking about going there48, 84, 87, 122, 125, 126, 128, 129, 133, 134, 1471. John Goldingay, Psalms, vol. 3: Psalms 90-150, Baker Commentary on the Old Testament: Wisdom and Psalms, ed. Tremper Longman III, (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2008), 753. I altered his spelling from hesed to chesed to conform to the actual pronunciation.

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Proverbs

• “[Proverbs] should not be read as promises but as guidelines, as principles for living. They show the way life works best 80 to 95 percent of the time. The Bible is clear throughout Scripture: if you live a life oriented to God, you will tend to have a good life.”1
• Proverbs 14:7: Leave the presence of a fool, for there you do not find words of knowledge.

The Fool

• Mouth of a fool brings ruin near (10:14)
• Utters slander (10:18)
• Doing wrong for fun (10:23)
• Broadcasts folly (12:23)
• No restraint, careless (14:16)
• Despises parent’s instruction (15:5)
• Does not receive a rebuke (17:10)
• Has plenty of personal opinions (18:2)
• Perverse speech (19:1)
• Quick to quarrel (20:3)
• Devours wealth (21:20)
• Despises wise words (23:9)
• Vents anger (29:11)
• Hasty in speech (29:20)

The Wise

• Honoring your parents (1:8-9; 10:1)
• Handling money well, avoiding debt (3:9-10; 22:7
• Discernment between right and wrong (3:21; 10:9; 28:5)
• Understanding (3:13; 4:7; 18:2)
• Fidelity in marriage (5:15-19; 6:32-35)
• Hard work instead of laziness (6:6-11; 15:19)
• Fearing the LORD (9:10; 24:21; 31:30)
• Teachability, humility (9:9; 11:2)
• Controlling what you say (10:19; 21:23)
• Righteousness, honesty, morality(11:3; 12:22; 29:6)
• Generosity (11:25; 19:17; 22:9)
• Choosing good friends (12:26; 13:20)
• Disciplining children (13:24; 22:15)
• Patience, slow to anger (14:29; 15:18)
• Self-control (16:32; 25:28; 29:11)

Song of Songs

• This collection of romantic poems is a commentary on Proverbs 5:18-19
• The focus of the book is a woman who pursues and fantasizers about romantic love. Her speech begins the book (1:5-6), ends the book, and utters the key truth of the book (8:6-7).
• Far from relegating women to a passive role, Song of Songs affirms a woman’s desires and her pursuit of them. She does not ignore that her body has yearnings, nor is she ashamed of them. Our heroine knows who she is; she’s in touch with her sexuality. She goes after him, attempting to woo him with her charms. Over and again, the two get separated, and one searches for the other until they find each other, panting with desire. Then, the section abruptly ends, and the two find themselves apart again, ready to repeat the cycle.
• “This poem should be read in light of Genesis 1 and 2. Following the command to “be fruitful and increase in number” (Gen 1:28), God plants a garden (2:8) in which he placed the man and woman he created in his own image. The narrative concludes with the words: “A man will … be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame” (2:24-25, emphasis added). The picture of sexual love in this book recaptures that scene, where the woman and the man take utter delight and pleasure in each other’s bodies and do so without shame. This is thus God’s way of recapturing both the fidelity and the unity and intimacy of marriage, which the enemy has tried to take away from God’s people by making it seem either titillating outside of marriage or something shameful and unmentionable within marriage.”2

Job

• Job 15:20–2420 The wicked writhe in pain all their days, through all the years that are laid up for the ruthless. 21 Terrifying sounds are in their ears; in prosperity the destroyer will come upon them. 22 They despair of returning from darkness, and they are destined for the sword. 23 They wander abroad for bread, saying, ‘Where is it?’ They know that a day of darkness is ready at hand; 24 distress and anguish terrify them; they prevail against them like a king prepared for battle.
• Do the wicked “writhe in pain all their days?” No. Many wicked people are just fine. You must be careful with the book of Job. It is a philosophical treatise, dealing with the question of justice. The key question is whether Job did something wrong to deserve the calamities he experienced. The book answers with a resounding “No,” but does not explain why God allowed Job to suffer so much.

Ecclesiastes

• Ecclesiastes 9:11–1211 Again I saw that under the sun the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to the skillful, but time and chance happen to them all. 12 For no one can anticipate one’s time. Like fish taken in a cruel net or like birds caught in a snare, so mortals are snared at a time of calamity, when it suddenly falls upon them.
• “Vanity” הֶבֶל hevel (38x) is the key word in Ecclesiastes.
  • Vapor, breath, smoke, pointless
  • Smoke appears solid, but you can’t grab it.
  • Chasing the wind
  • Pursuing money, success, or knowledge is hevel (temporary, fleeting).
• Ecclesiastes 12:13–1413 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God, and keep his commandments, for that is the whole duty of everyone. 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.

Review

• Proverbs offers conventional truisms that generally work in an ordered world. Pursue wisdom and avoid folly.
• Song of Songs is an anthology of poems celebrating the delights of physical beauty, romance, and sexuality.
• Job disproves the notion that those who suffer calamity deserved it by sinning in some big way.
• Ecclesiastes bemoans the futility of pursuing wealth, success, pleasure, or even wisdom. Life is uncertain, so fear God and keep his commandments.
• Although ultimately all one’s achievements disappear like smoke in the wind, we can enjoy the blessing of enjoying a good meal, working hard, and the delights of marriage.
• Conventional wisdom offers principles that generally work, whereas subversive wisdom acknowledges that chaos and catastrophe strike, resulting in the righteous suffering.
• Reading just one of these books limits you to a partial view of wisdom. Reading them together presents a robust understanding of how to live wisely through the complexities of life in the real world.
• George H. Guthrie, Read the Bible for Life (Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing, 2011), 141.
• Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible Book by Book (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Academic, 2002), 163.

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Lesson 6 Notes

Reading the Law takes work

– Sometimes it’s just weird (Lev 11:20-23)– Sometimes it’s tedious (Ex 26:7-9)– Important to focus while reading– Eliminate distractions– Read aloud if you can– Keep track of things (underline, highlight, write notes in the margin)

The books of the Law (Torah)

1. Genesis2. Exodus3. Leviticus4. Numbers5. Deuteronomy

Four categories of Law

1. Holiness2. Sacrifice3. Justice4. Sacred time

Sinai and the giving of the Law

– God came down on the mountain and spoke audibly (Ex 19:16-21)– The people agreed to obey and then “stood at a distance” while Moses went up and received the rest of the Law (Ex 20:18-21)

Tabernacle

– The 2nd half of Exodus contains meticulous instructions on how to build the tabernacle and everything that went outside and inside of it.– The tabernacle is where God dwelled and where the people made animal sacrifices.– Inside the tabernacle was a lampstand, table, bread, alter of incense, and ark of the covenant. Outside of the tent stood the bronze basin and the bronze altar for sacrifices.

Numbers

– Organization of the camp– Tabernacle was in the center, surrounded by Levites– the Levites set up, tore down, and transported the tabernacle (Num 18:21-24).– Later on, David commissioned the Levites to sing and play instruments to praise God (1 Chron 16)– A man named Korah instigated a rebellion that resulted in disastrous judgement with God showing that he wanted only the Levites to serve him through the tabernacle worship system.

Leviticus

– Priests maintained the inside of the tabernacle.– They butchered animals and offered them on the altar.– They managed cleansing ritual when someone became unclean for touching a dead person, touching the carcass of an unclean animal, nocturnal emissions, monthly menstruation, childbirth, bodily discharges, and skin diseases.– Israel => Levites => Priests => High Priest

Types of sacrifices (Lev 17:11)

– Burnt offerings– Grain offerings– Peace (well-being) offerings– Sin offerings– Guilt offerings– Holy day offerings

Covenantal structure of Deuteronomy

1. Preamble (Deut 1:1-5)2. Historical review (Deut 1:6-4:49)3. Individual laws/requirements (Deut 5-26)4. Deposit of the text (Deut 31:9, 24-26)5. List of witnesses (Deut 4:26; 30:19)6. Blessings and curses (Deut 27-28)7. Ratification ceremony (Deut 29)8. Exhortation (Deut 29-30)

Deuteronomy

– Second telling of the law to the next generation– Shows so much of God’s heart– Apodictic laws: general commands (ex. 10 Commandments)– Casuistic laws: specific scenarios (ex. Deut 22:6-7; 23:15-16)

Dealing with embarrassing or sexist laws

– God gave the Law to move the people of Israel forward.– Comparisons to other ancient near eastern (ANE) law codes (like the Code of Hammurabi) show how the Torah curbed abuses and protected the vulnerable.– On first reading, a law (ex. Deut 21:10-14) may seem bizarre or barbaric, but when you consider the historical setting and the options available in a patriarchal society, the wisdom of the Torah shines through brilliantly.– Two books that can help you make sense of confusing laws include Is God a Moral Monster? by Paul Copan and How (Not) to Read the Bible by Dan Kimball.

Why the Law matters to you

– The Torah teaches you who God is and what his preferences are.– The new covenant includes many of the same prohibitions and commandments as the old covenant.– The Law shows how highly God values holiness over syncretism.– Understanding the Pentateuch is necessary for understanding the rest of the Bible.– You can extract ethical principles from laws even when the particulars don’t line up.

Review:

– The Torah or Pentateuch includes Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, though much of these books contains narrative.– The Law was God’s gracious covenant with Israel, detailing how he wanted them to live and be different than the nations around them.– The tabernacle was the worship facility God had his people construct. Under King Solomon, the temple in Jerusalem replaced the tabernacle.– God set apart the tribe of Levites to manage the tabernacle and the offerings made there. They didn’t receive a land inheritance; instead, the people supported them financially.– God set apart the priests, a subset of the Levites, to manage the sacrificial system, maintain holiness, and cleanse those who became unclean.– The high priest was the only one allowed to enter the holy of holies in the tabernacle on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur).– Deuteronomy contains the clearest expression of the covenant God made with Israel, updated for the second generation.– Although some of the laws contained in the Torah seem backward or offensive to us, they limited abuse and protected vulnerable people amid a patriarchal and unequal society.– Although most of the specifics of the Torah don’t apply to Christians today, it’s critical to understand to know God better and understand other parts of the Bible.

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“If there was one bit of wisdom, one rule of thumb, one single skill I could impart, one useful tip I could leave that would serve you well the rest of your life, what would it be? What is the single most important practical skill I’ve ever learned as a Christian? Here it is: Never read a Bible verse. That’s right, never read a Bible verse. Instead, always read a paragraph at least.”1

What to Look For

• author
• audience
• occasion
• purpose

Two Tasks

1. Figure out what a text meant to its original audience
2. Figure out what it means to you today

Understand Then Apply

• get the author’s point before asking about application
• what’s the author’s train of thought
• do not ask, “How does this affect my life?”
• do not ask, “How does this fit into my theology?”
• just focus on getting what the author is conveying in his own historical context
• paragraph style bibles help with this tremendously whereas verse paragraphs make it hard to see what is connected to what
• look up words and phrases that you don’t understand like a Sabbath day’s journey, high places, a talent or a mina
• in most cases a simple internet search will provide the answer
• a paper study bible or some apps will provide footnotes with helpful information

Have an Open Posture Toward the Text

• accept that you are going to disagree with the scriptures from time to time
• also accept that sometimes your understanding of the scripture is flawed
• recognize that you are imperfect in your understanding, morals, theology, and understanding of life
• adopt a posture of obedience
• pray, “God please change me by what I read”
• the role of God’s spirit to inspire, convict, encourage, etc.
• The spirit is both lurking beneath the surface of scripture and hovering over it as you read
• pray and ask God to show you what to do in light of what you just read

Covenants

• covenant is an agreement between God and the people with clear expectations and commitments from both
• old covenant
  • God established this with Israel at Mount Sinai after he brought them out of Egypt through Moses
  • they would follow his Torah (instruction or law) as taught by Moses
  • he would take care of their fertility and protect them
• new covenant
  • God established this with the Church at the cross
  • they would follow Jesus and his apostles’ teaching on how to live
  • God would make them (even non-Israelites) his people, forgive their sins, allow himself to be known, and put his law (as taught by Jesus) in their hearts
  • he would resurrect them to eternal life in the age to come when he establishes his eternal kingdom

Application Rules

1. “A text cannot mean what it never could have meant to its author or readers” (p. 77).
2. “Whenever we share comparable particulars with the first-century hearers, God’s word to us is the same as his word to them” (p. 78).

“The great caution here is that we do our exegesis well so that we have confidence that our situations and particulars are genuinely comparable to theirs. This is why the careful reconstruction of their problem is so important” (p. 79).

Application Problems

1. The problem of extended application (1 Cor 6.1-6)
2. The problem of particulars that are not comparable (1 Cor 10.24-11.1)
3. The problem of cultural relativity (Rom 16.16; 1 Cor 16.20; 2 Cor 13.12; 1 Thess 5.26)
4. The problem of task theology

Three Questions to Help with Extended Application

1. Does extending the application contradict other scriptural statements?
2. Does extending the application align with general principles taught in scripture
3. Does extending the application align or contradict with the example of Jesus or the apostles?

Moral vs. Custom

• “[O]ne should be prepared to distinguish between what the New Testament itself sees as inherently moral and what is not. Those items that are inherently moral are therefore absolute and abide for every culture; those that are not inherently moral are therefore cultural expressions and may change from culture to culture.”2

Novel Doctrines

• If you’ve found a way of putting together verses to build a new doctrine no one in twenty centuries of Christianity has ever expressed, chances are, you’ve made a mistake
• See Restorationist Manifesto (Appendix 2-3) for simple methods of doctrinal synthesis and evaluation

Review:

• When reading scripture, look for clues about authorship, audience, occasion, and purpose.
• Figure out what a text meant to them first, then figure out what it means to you.
• Pray! Ask God to change you by what you read. Seek his wisdom in applying scripture to your particular situation.
• Understanding covenants is necessary to figure out if a particular command in scripture applies to you today.
• It’s easiest to apply scripture when your situation lines up closely with the biblical situation.
• Recognize that scripture has a limited application. Don’t extend application beyond the original intention.
• Sometimes our situations are so different that the best we can do is extract the principle behind a particular instruction. However, applying that principle in a new situation takes wisdom.
• Some instructions in scripture are culturally embedded and obeying them literally would result in new problems.
• Building general doctrines from biblical texts is sometimes problematic since scripture often addresses particular situations.
• Dan Kimball, How (Not) to Read the Bible (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2020), 39.
• Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014), 85.

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Exegesis

Hunger for Scripture

Two Questions

1. What did it mean to the original audience then?
2. What does it mean to you today?

Context, Context, Context

1. immediate context
2. canonical context
3. historical context
4. geographical context
5. cultural context

Immediate Context

• Philippians 4.13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
• Putting this verse in context:Philippians 4.10-1410 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.

Canonical Context

• Leviticus 11.4, 74 But among those that chew the cud or have divided hoofs, you shall not eat the following: the camel, for even though it chews the cud, it does not have divided hoofs; it is unclean for you. …7 The pig, for even though it has divided hoofs and is cleft-footed, it does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you.
• To whom were these statements originally made?
• Leviticus 11.1-21 The LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying to them, 2 “Speak to the Israelites: “From among all the land animals, these are the creatures that you may eat.

Historical Context

• Jeremiah 29.11For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.
• What were the historical circumstances in which this statement was originally made?
• Jeremiah 29.1These are the words of the letter that the prophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem to the remaining elders among the exiles and to the priests, the prophets, and all the people whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon.

Geographical Context

• John 2.13The Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
• Does this mean Jesus was south of Jerusalem?
• Actually, here “up” refers to elevation, since Jerusalem is on a hill. People go up to Jerusalem regardless of the direction from which they approach.

Cultural Context

• Abraham and Sarah (nomadic)
• Solomon (palace life in the united kingdom of Israel)
• Daniel (palace life in Babylon)
• Jesus (Galilee and Judea under Roman occupation)
• Paul (major Greco-Roman cities)

Chronological Snobbery

• Originally coined by C. S. Lewis, this refers to the judgmental attitude that looks at people in ancient history as unsophisticated, primitive, and inferior.
• Ancient people were not dumb. They were no smarter or dumber than we are.
• Some of their technology was rather sophisticated.

Literal vs. Figurative

• Didymus the Blind (ad 313-398): “Abraham entered then into Egypt allegorically by adapting himself as one of the perfect to the imperfect in order to do good to them instead of holding on to virtue as a privilege, as has been said above, but in showing her to all as his sister, in humility, so that by contemplating her they might come to love her. But observe how it is said that the officials saw her. There are in fact in the ranks of the allegorically viewed Egyptians some men who are purer, who have a great capacity for perceiving virtue. And they not only perceived her, but they introduced her to their superior, that is, to the reason that governs them, and they praised her” (On Genesis 228).1
• Sadly, Didymus overlayed the historical narrative of scripture with lessons about treasuring wisdom that were obviously not present in the text
• Figurative sections of scripture like Isaiah 55.12 and Revelation 12.4 are fairly obvious.
• Generally it’s good to interpret the historical, legal, and epistolary portions as literal unless there’s a good reason not to

Review:

• Exegesis is the process by which one studies, understands, and explains what a texts means.
• The two questions you must ask when studying the bible are (1) “What did this mean to the original audience?” and (2) “What does this mean to me today?”
• Most errors in exegesis are the result of failing to read the immediate context.
• Getting a grip on the context of the original writing greatly improves exegesis, including immediate context, canonical context, historical context, geographical context, cultural context, and technological context.
• While reading historical narratives, law, biographies, and epistles you should privilege literal interpretation over figurative, recognizing that exceptions can happen.

If you don’t understand something, just keep going. Figuring out the big picture can help immensely to understand the minutiae.

1. Sheridan, Mark and Thomas C. Oden, eds., Genesis 12–50 Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture 2. ICCS/Accordance electronic edition, version 2.8. InterVarsity Press: 2002, Downers Grove.

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The Bible is not a single book, but a collection or library of sixty-six books.

1. Genesis
2. Exodus
3. Leviticus
4. Numbers
5. Deuteronomy
6. Joshua
7. Judges
8. Ruth
9. 1 Samuel
10. 2 Samuel
11. 1 Kings
12. 2 Kings
13. 1 Chronicles
14. 2 Chronicles
15. Ezra
16. Nehemiah
17. Esther
18. Job
19. Psalms
20. Proverbs
21. Ecclesiastes
22. Song of Solomon
23. Isaiah
24. Jeremiah
25. Lamentations
26. Ezekiel
27. Daniel
28. Hosea
29. Joel
30. Amos
31. Obadiah
32. Jonah
33. Micah
34. Nahum
35. Habakkuk
36. Zephaniah
37. Haggai
38. Zechariah
39. Malachi
40. Matthew
41. Mark
42. Luke
43. John
44. Acts
45. Romans
46. 1 Corinthians
47. 2 Corinthians
48. Galatians
49. Ephesians
50. Philippians
51. Colossians
52. 1 Thessalonians
53. 2 Thessalonians
54. 1 Timothy
55. 2 Timothy
56. Titus
57. Philemon
58. Hebrews
59. James
60. 1 Peter
61. 2 Peter
62. 1 John
63. 2 John
64. 3 John
65. Jude
66. Revelation

The Old Testament includes 39 books, written in Hebrew and Aramaic.

1. History [Torah, Judges, Kings, Exilic]
2. Poetry [Philosophy, Songs, General Wisdom, Subversive Wisdom, Romance]
3. Prophecy [Pre-Exilic, Exilic, Post-Exilic]

The New Testament includes 27 books, written in Greek.

1. History [Jesus, Church]
2. Epistles [To Churches, Pastoral, General]
3. Prophecy [Apocalyptic]

Genres

• historical narrative: Genesis, Exodus (first half), Numbers, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, 1-2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Jonah, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts
• biography: Ruth, Ezra (partial), Nehemiah (partial), Esther, Jonah, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts (partial)
• law: Exodus (second half), Leviticus, Deuteronomy
• poetry: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, Lamentations
• prophecy: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Revelation
• wisdom: Job, Psalms (partial), Proverbs, Ecclesiastes
• epistles: Romans, 1-2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1-2 Thessalonians, 1-2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1-2 Peter, 1-3 John, Jude, Revelation (partial)
• apocalyptic: Daniel (partial), Zechariah (partial), Revelation

Subgenres

• parables (2 Samuel 12.1-7)
• riddles (Judges 14.14)
• aphorisms (Proverbs 15.1)
• monologues (Job 3.3-26); Matthew 5-7)
• dialogues (Genesis 4.9-15)

Additions to the Text

• chapters
• verses
• paragraph headings
• book introductions
• cross-references
• textual notes
• translation notes
• study notes
• italicized words
• capitalized words
• red words

How References Work

• 1 Kings 3.4 = First book of Kings, chapter 3, verse 4
• separator between chapter and verse can be a colon, a period, or even a superscript font
• 1 Kings 3.1-4 = verses 1 through 4 of chapter 3 of 1 Kings
• 1 Kings 3-4 = chapters 3 through 4 of 1 Kings
• we use a semicolon to separate between chapters and a comma between verses (1 Kings 3.4, 7, 15; 16.1-20; 18)
• we use an “a” or “b” to mark the first half or second half of a verse (1 Kings 3.4b)
• we use an “f” to include the verse following the starting verse (1 Kings 3.4f = 1 Kings 3.4-5)
• we use an “ff” to include all the verses to the end of the chapter (1 Kings 3.4ff = 1 Kings 3.4-28)
• we often abbreviate book names to their first syllable.

Ways to Read the Bible

• paper bible: any “standard” version(NRSV, ESV, NASB, CSB, etc.)
• website: biblegateway.com, biblehub.com
• app on your phone: YouVersion, Bible.is
• app on your computer: Logos, Accordance

Review:

• The Bible is not a book, but a library of 66 books.
• The Bible breaks into two main divisions: Old Testament (39 books) and New Testament (27 books).
• The Bible contains different genres that affect how we read, including historical narrative, biography, law, poetry, prophecy, wisdom, epistles, and apocalyptic.
• Even within genres, we can find subgenres like parables, riddles, aphorisms, monologues, and dialogues.
• Although God inspired the text of scripture, other additions of publishers are subjective and devoid of divine authority.
• Reference styles vary but follow the format of book => chapter => verse.
• The Bible is available as a bound book, on websites, on phone apps, and on computer apps.

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The Bible survives in more manuscripts than other ancient documents.

AuthorTitleSurviving ManuscriptsTacitusAnnals33ThucydidesHistory of the Peloponnesian War96HerodotusHistory109LivyHistory of Rome150SophoclesTragedies193Pliny the ElderNatural History200PlatoTetralogies210Julius CaesarGallic Wars251DemosthenesSpeeches340HomerIliad 1,757VariousNew Testament1 5,795The Bible is available in more languages than other books.

Author Title LanguagesJ. R. R. TolkienThe Lord of the Rings57Mark TwainThe Adventures of Huckleberry Finn65J. K. RowlingHarry Potter85MuhammedQur’an (Arabic)102Joseph SmithBook of Mormon115Lewis CarrollAlice’s Adventures in Wonderland174LaoziDao De Jing (Chinese)250Carlo CollodiThe Adventures of Pinocchio260Antoine de Saint-ExupéryThe Little Prince (French)505VariousThe Bible6982The Bible sells more copies than other books.

Author Title SalesLeo TolstoyWar and Peace (Russian)36 millionDan BrownThe Da Vinci Code80 millionJ. R. R. TolkienThe Hobbit100 millionCao XueqinDream of the Red Chamber (Chinese)100 millionJ. K. RowlingHarry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone120 millionCharles DickensA Tale of Two Cities200 millionAntoine de Saint-ExupéryThe Little Prince (French)200 millionVariousThe Bible (Hebrew/Aramaic/Greek)5-7 billion3Which two sayings are in the Bible?

1. Cleanliness is next to godliness
2. Am I my brother’s keeper?
3. God helps those who help themselves
4. This too shall pass
5. A living dog is better than a dead lion
6. God works in mysterious ways
7. Moderation in all things

God inspired the Bible, resulting in an authoritative book for belief and practice.

2 Timothy 3.14–17 (NRSVue4)14 continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it 15 and how from childhood you have known sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 so that the person of God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.

Review:

• The Bible is a fascinating book because it has way more surviving manuscripts, it is available in way more languages, and it has sold way more copies than other books.
• The content of scripture alone should make you want to read it since it teaches about God, life, morals, and eternal life.
• This class will help you develop the ability to discern between the genuine and the counterfeit.
• God inspired scripture, making its contents useful for training and authoritative.
• Even recognizing the authority of scripture and studying it assiduously does not guarantee correct interpretation.
• If we added in manuscripts of the Old Testament the number would jump up considerably, especially after the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the documents recovered from the Cairo genizah.
• If we limit ourselves to only the New Testament, the number of language jumps to 2,191.
• See Guiness Book of World Records, “Best-Selling Book,” accessed Nov 10, 2023, https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/best-selling-book-of-non-fiction.
• New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition, National Council of Churches, 2021.

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Lesson 11 and 12 Notes Download

Worship Yahweh Music Playlist

Galatians 3:8-9, 14, 29

Psalm 25:3-5 The human tendency we all must fight is the desire to control our own lives without the help or interference from God and anyone else. Waiting for God’s assistance and direction is hard to learn but essential if we want a better life. Asking for His help and doing things His way are so much better than doing them our own “independent” way. Waiting, in the context of this psalm, may refer to seeking God’s involvement in our daily affairs and/or waiting until the end of the age when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. Those who wait will not be disappointed.

Psalm 27:13-14 Amid challenges and difficulties, we keep keeping on because we have confidence and anticipation that the day is coming when we will experience Yahweh’s goodness in the land of the living. To wait on Yahweh involves patience, trust, and a sense of reliance on God’s timing and providence. Everything will work out, even if we must wait until the Lord comes back.

Psalm 31:23-24 O love Yahweh, all you His godly ones! Yahweh preserves the faithful and fully recompenses the proud doer. Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in Yahweh.

Yahweh preserves or protects those who love Him and are committed to Him. The proud will face consequences for their actions. Those who put their hope and trust in God for daily living and eternal destiny can find strength and courage even in difficult times. If God is for us, who can be against us? We are in good shape as live for our hope.

Psalm 39:4-7 David requests an awareness of his mortality, so he can understand the importance of the limits of human existence. A handbreadth is the width of the hand without stretched out fingers, which again emphasizes the fleeting nature of life. He points out the insignificance of chasing wealth. What good are riches in the scheme of eternity? Life for all is transient and insubstantial when compared with the spiritual verities. Each day is a precious gift that should be utilized for God’s glory as we wait for Him. For the believer, mortality will be swallowed up with immortality.

Psalm 119:165-167 Those who love Your law have great peace, and nothing causes them to stumble. I hope for Your salvation, O Yahweh, and do Your commandments. My soul keeps Your testimonies, and I love them exceedingly.

Christ’s disciples have been saved, are being saved, and will be saved when Jesus returns. On “the day of salvation” when Christ returns, we will experience our complete and eternal salvation. Then, we inherit new bodies and new minds just like his resurrected body. In view of that day – “I hope for Your salvation, O Yahweh, and do Your commandments.”

Psalm 130:5-6 In the ancient world, walls surrounded the cities providing protection from would-be enemies. Every night, citizens took turns as watchmen to oversee the city. Late into the night, staying alert became more and more difficult. The watchmen longed for the morning when they would be relieved from their duty. This is a brilliant comparison for our anticipation of Christ’s return. We long for that glorious day! Until dawn breaks, we are on watch for the approaching of our spiritual adversary, the devil. 1 Peter 5:8 states, “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Psalm 145:3-6 Our ultimate trust does not belong in earthy rulers or powerful people for they cannot in the end save or provide true or everlasting deliverance. All human authority and achievements are temporary, while God’s power is limitless and enduring forever. God is our ultimate source of help and hope. Human beings are transitory compared to God’s eternal nature and reliability.

Zion, the City of GodPsalm 132:11-18 The restoration of Zion is part of our hope.

Psalm 68:16 Why do you look with envy, O mountains with many peaks, At the mountain which God has desired for His abode? Surely the LORD will dwell there forever.

Psalm 78:68 But chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion which He loved.

Psalm 87:2-3 The LORD loves the gates of Zion More than all the other dwelling places of Jacob.Glorious things are spoken of you, O city of God. Selah.

Psalms 132:13 For the LORD has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His habitation.“This is My resting place forever; Here I will dwell, for I have desired it.”

Psalm 46:1-11; 48:1-14

Psalm 122:1-9 A Song of Ascents, of David. I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of Yahweh.” Our feet are standing Within your gates, O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that is built as a city that is compact together; To which the tribes go up, even the tribes of Yahweh–An ordinance for Israel–To give thanks to the name of Yahweh. For there thrones were set for judgment, the thrones of the house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May they prosper who love you. May peace be within your walls, and prosperity within your palaces.”For the sake of my brothers and my friends, I will now say, “May peace be within you.”For the sake of the house of Yahweh our God, I will seek your good.

If you have songs you would like to add to the Worship Yahweh playlist, send a YouTube link to vcf@lhim.org or digital@lhim.org.

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Lesson 11 and 12 Notes Download

Worship Yahweh Music Playlist

Hebrews 6:19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil….

2 Samuel 7:1-17, 27-29 The covenant God cut with David is a big part of our hope.

2 Samuel 7:27-29 “For You, O Yahweh of hosts, the God of Israel, have made a revelation to Your servant, saying, ‘I will build you a house’; therefore Your servant has found courage to pray this prayer to You. “Now, O Lord Yahweh, You are God, and Your words are truth, and You have promised this good thing to Your servant. “Now therefore, may it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue forever before You. For You, O Lord Yahweh, have spoken; and with Your blessing may the house of Your servant be blessed forever.”

Psalm 89:3-4, 19-37 The Davidic covenant makes certain King Jesus is coming back.

Psalm 132:11 Yahweh has sworn to David a truth from which He will not turn back: “Of the fruit of your body I will set upon your throne.”

Jeremiah 33:19-21 The word of Yahweh came to Jeremiah, saying, “Thus says Yahweh, ‘If you can break My covenant for the day and My covenant for the night, so that day and night will not be at their appointed time, then My covenant may also be broken with David My servant so that he will not have a son to reign on his throne, and with the Levitical priests, My ministers.

Luke 1:32-33; Isaiah 11:1ff

Psalm 2:6-9 “But as for Me, I have installed My King Upon Zion, My holy mountain. “I will surely tell of the decree of Yahweh: He said to Me, ‘You are My Son, today I have begotten You. ‘Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations as Your inheritance, and the very ends of the earth as your possession. ‘You shall break them with a rod of iron, you shall shatter them like earthenware.'”

“You are My Son, today I have begotten you” is quoted in Acts 13:33; Hebrews 1:5; and 5:5. Jesus will sit upon the throne of David in Jerusalem and govern the world on behalf of Yahweh. All the nations of the world will be broken and in subjection to his absolute sovereignty. Righteousness, justice, and equity will finally prevail worldwide. Isaiah 2:4 and Micah 4:3 declare the complete elimination of war and that the weapons of war will be transformed into tools of agriculture. “Rod of iron” symbolizes the Messiah’s unshakable rule over the nations. “Dash in pieces” like pottery suggests that His judgment will be swift and severe against those who defy His authority.

Psalm 37:1-11; 22, 29, 34 The covenant cut with Abraham is a big part of our hope. Genesis 12:1; 13:14-15, 17; 15:7, 18; 17:7-8; 22:17; 23:17-20; Romans 4:13; and Galatians 3:6-29

Psalm 37:7-11 Rest in Yahweh and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret [kindle to anger] because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret [kindle to anger]; it leads only to evildoing. For evildoers will be cut off, but those who wait for Yahweh, they will inherit the land.Yet a little while and the wicked man will be no more; and you will look carefully for his place and he will not be there. But the humble will inherit the land and will delight themselves in abundant prosperity.

A big part of the Abrahamic covenant is the promise to inherit the regenerated land that, according to Galatians 3, will include the whole earth. Christians are included in this great promise, again according to Galatians 3 among other Scriptures. In view of our future in the Kingdom of God, we should not allow ourselves to get caught up in this present evil age responding to the insanity around us with anger or wrath. In a little while, the wicked will be no more, and only the righteous will prevail. Be patient, God-centered, diligent to live godly under the tutelage and direction of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our hope is not a wishy washy, maybe could happen kind of hope, nor is it a stagnant no influence kind of hope. Our hope is based upon the promises of Almighty God; therefore, they are as certain as certain can be.

If you have songs you would like to add to the Worship Yahweh playlist, send a YouTube link to vcf@lhim.org or digital@lhim.org.

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Lesson 9 and 10 Notes Download

Worship Yahweh Music Playlist

2 Samuel 14:28-15:6, 12-14 Absalom’s betrayal of David

2 Samuel 12:9-13 The consequences of David’s sin is foretold.

2 Samuel 16:5-13 Then David said to Abishai and to all his servants, “Behold, my son who came out from me seeks my life; how much more now this Benjamite? Let him alone and let him curse, for Yahweh has told him.

Psalm 3:1 What state of mind would David have as a parent; as a sinner who was told the consequences to come; as the founder of Jerusalem, the city of God; as the king being dethroned and exiled again; as the leader of a nation at civil war?

Psalm 3:1-8 This is what faith looks like! “I lay down and slept; I awoke, for Yahweh sustains me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people Who have set themselves against me….

Psalm 9:9-11 Yahweh also will be a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble; and those who know Your name will put their trust in You, for You, O Yahweh, have not forsaken those who seek You. Sing praises to Yahweh.

Psalm 27:1-5, 13-14 Whom shall I fear? Yahweh is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread?

Psalm 31:1-5, 14-17, 19-21

Psalm 46:1-11 God is our refuge, a very present help in trouble, we will not fear, Yahweh of hosts is with us.

Psalm 46:10 (ESV) “Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

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Psalm 51:5

Romans 4:1-9 Another reason this incident was written is so that we know “all men” means “all”, including the great men Abraham and David. Our understanding of grace, mercy, and forgiveness is greatly enhanced with this record about David.

Psalm 51:6-12 Did God answer David’s prayer?

Acts 13:21-23

7 Hyssop is a wild shrub the twigs of which were used for sprinkling in purification rites. Numbers 19:16-19 Apparently, hyssop had natural purification properties.

10 The reason acceptance of forgiveness is often difficult is we keep doing the same thing over and over. God must change our hearts and guide our steps, and we must fight to accept His workings. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. David is not only asking forgiveness and a clean heart, but additionally a STEADFAST state of mind in which he would be willing and ready to obey the commands of God and to serve Him faithfully.

Psalm 119:9-12 How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. With all my heart I have sought You; do not let me wander from Your commandments. Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You. Blessed are You, O Yahweh; teach me Your statutes.

16-17 Sacrifices, Hebrews 13:14-15

4:5 Sacrifice of righteousness

50:14 and 23; 54:6; 107:22; 116:17 Sacrifice of thanksgiving

I06:28, 37, and 38 Sacrifice cost them a lot. How about us?

Psalm 32:1 This psalm is believed to be written after the situation with Uriah in keeping with David’s promise in Psalm 51:12-15.

How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered! How blessed is the man to whom Yahweh does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit!

“Transgression”, “sin”, and “iniquity” are used to convey the same idea. They highlight the act of straying from the path of righteousness by disobeying God’s will and thereby breaking fellowship with Him.

“Forgiven”, “covered”, and “impute” basically communicate the same thing. God’s forgiveness is a blessing.

Sin is the general act of missing the mark and falling short of God’s standard. This is the opposite of what is right. Genesis 4:7 – Cain, sin is crouching at….

Transgression is the willful act of crossing boundaries and violating God’s law, whether with or without evil intent. Genesis 50:17 – Joseph and his brothers

Iniquity carries a deeper meaning, in that it is a premeditated choice in sin without repentance, with evil intent. It can also imply continuous commitment to sin.

While these terms have distinct meanings, it’s important to note that they are often used interchangeably and can overlap in certain contexts. They convey the idea of wrongdoing, rebellion against God, and need for repentance and forgiveness.

2 “in whose spirit there is not deceit” – a person who is sincere, honest, and transparent in his/her relationship with God. This person has a pure heart, no hidden motives or deception.

4 David metaphorically expresses the burden of unconfessed sin as a heavy weight and a drain on his strength, like the oppressive heat of summer. The depiction emphasizes the distress and discomfort experienced while trying to hide the sin.

Psalm 38:4-10, 17-22

7 Now is the time to repent; do not wait; time may run out on your life or the day of God’s judgment. It implies a sense of urgency and the recognition that there is a window of opportunity to seek God’s forgiveness and mercy.

“You are my hiding place.” David relished fellowship with God. He used these concepts in his writings – stronghold 14 times, refuge 41 times; shelter 4 times; shadow of the Almighty, shadow of your wings, my fortress, the secret place of Your tent, and the secret place of Your presence.

8 These verses seem to switch from David speaking to God, to God speaking to him.

9 This is caution against stubbornness and resistance to God’s leading. These animals require external control mechanisms like bits and bridles.

11 Be glad in Yahweh and rejoice, you righteous ones; and shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.

Psalm 6:1-10 David, suffering physically, near death, at wits end, turns to Yahweh and cries out for help. Asking God to return implies a sense of distance from Him, so he prays, “Yahweh, rescue my soul; save me”. Spiritually minded people understand God’s intervention is not because it is earned or deserved; rather, it is because of His lovingkindness, His steadfast, unchanging love.

All of us experience times of suffering and have feelings of separation from God. David did what we should do – pray and focus on God’s lovingkindness and not our problem or feelings. David ends the psalm confident God heard his prayer. Verse 9 states: Yahweh has heard my supplication, Yahweh receives my prayer.

Psalm 19:11 In view of the preceding verses in this Psalm that magnify the significance of God’s word, David acknowledges the Scriptures will help him by warning him to avoid sins.

12 We can be deceived and not acknowledge our own errors, so we pray and ask for help and forgiveness, similar to the Lord’s prayer.

13 “Presumptuous” is failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate, to be arrogant, audacious. We need God’s help to avoid deliberate or willful sins and hidden sins we are unaware of.

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Yahweh, my rock and my Redeemer.

Psalm 25:5-8 The prayer is uttered by a humble, fragile, contrite believer to his compassionate, loving, and kind God. The information recorded in

Psalm 25 is needful to all those who want to walk in a loving relationship with Yahweh. Asking God to remember His own virtues (compassion and lovingkindnesses) and not remember our sins and transgressions is indeed unusual, but very necessary.

1 John 1:8-10 Our faith for forgiveness has much more substance since we live after Jesus’ death and resurrection. God’s plan of redemption and salvation are now complete in Christ. When we read the following, we should have the same (nay, more) faith to accept forgiveness – 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Psalm 25:9-11 “For Your name’s sake, O Yahweh”, not for my sake or my merits’ sake, but to glorify Your mercy and to show forth the glory of Your divine attributes. To pardon a great sinner will bring You great glory; therefore, for Your name’s sake pardon me.

This verse illustrates the logic of faith; it looks not for merit in oneself but to the goodness and mercy of God. Instead of being flabbergasted by the demerits of sin, it looks to the steadfast love of our merciful God and Father. “Yahweh’s loving kindnesses never cease; they are new every morning.”

Psalm 40:11-13 David’s confidence in Yahweh, even when his iniquities overtake him, is a great example of taking God at His word. Yahweh declared that He is compassionate, gracious, and forgiving. David believed Yahweh would forgive him because He said so.

Psalm 103:1-22 He pardons all your iniquities….

Psalm 130:1-7 In the ancient world, walls surrounding the cities provided protection from those who would be enemies. Every night, citizens took turns as watchmen to oversee the city. Late into the night, staying alert became more and more difficult. The watchmen longed for the morning when they would be relieved from their duty. This is a brilliant comparison for our anticipation of Christ’s return. We long for that glorious day! Until dawn breaks, we are on watch for the approaching of our spiritual adversary, the devil. 1 Peter 5:8 states, “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:1. David’s sin is recorded, so can remain vigilant, understand God’s forgiveness, and appreciate salvation by ________________.

a) merit, b) love, c) grace, d) works

1. Psalm 32:1 How blessed is he whose transgression is _________, whose sin is covered! How blessed is the man to whom Yahweh does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit!

a) Remember, b) forgotten, c) counted, d) forgiven

1. Psalm 103 states that our transgressions are removed from us using what comparison?

a) As high as the heavens are above the earth, b) as deep as the ocean, c) as far as the east is from the west, d) as high as the highest mountain

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We have seen in previous sessions how extraordinary David was as a man after God’s own heart. His love and devotion to Yahweh were beyond compare.

2 Samuel 23:14-17 David was in the battlefield with his men for years. The significance of David’s refusal to drink the water is an example of David’s leadership and the deep bonds he shared with his warriors. It highlights themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and honor that committed and seasoned soldiers share.

2 Samuel 23:18 Joab is the son of Zeruiah, David’s sister; this was his nephew. Abishai was Joab’s brother and another nephew; 24 Asahel was another brother to Joab and another nephew to David; 34 Eliam the son of Ahithophel; 39 Uriah the Hittite.

Bathsheba was the wife of Uriah the Hittite. The Hittites were a neighboring nation known for their fierce warriors. Uriah was one of David’s 30 elite warriors.

Bathsheba’s father was Eliam (2 Samuel 11:3; 1 Chronicles 3: 5) who was also among the elite. Eliam was the son of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 23:34). Ahithophel was the grandfather of Bathsheba. He was one of David’s counselors who sided with Absalom. (See 1 Chronicles 27:33; 2 Samuel 15:31.)

2 Samuel 11:14-27 David took advantage of the no questions asked loyalty of Joab and involved him in the murder of this noble man. Later, Joab would kill David’s son, Absalom.

2 Samuel 12:1-9

Exodus 20:17 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife or his male servant or his female servant or his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”Why is this included in the Scriptures? 1) So that we take heed and be on alert, 2) understand God’s forgiveness, 3) understand salvation by grace.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:6; 1 Peter 5:8-9

Psalm 51:1 Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

David is again leaning on his understanding of Exodus 34. He had no grounds to ask forgiveness other than the words of Yahweh he knew from the Torah. He asked forgiveness knowing he deserved death. Yahweh’s grace, compassion, and lovingkindness were why David received forgiveness and not because of his good works. We are blessed to live after Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins. If we have a penitent heart like David, we too can receive forgiveness and cleansing. If God forgave David, He can forgive you too!

2-4 His contriteness is evident as he is accepting full responsibility for his sin without blaming anyone else or God.

Romans 3:1-25

Romans 3:10-12Psalm 14:1-3; 53:1-3Romans 3:13Psalm 5:9; 140:1-3Romans 3:14Psalm 10:4-11; 59:12Romans 3:15-16Isaiah 59:7-8Romans 3:18Psalm 36:1-4If you have songs you would like to add to the Worship Yahweh playlist, send a YouTube link to vcf@lhim.org or digital@lhim.org.

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Secret Place of God’s PresencePsalm 5:6-8 David often writes about the many foes that he faced as is the case with this psalm. Yet, he knew no matter the immensity of his adversaries, he could find safety and solace in God’s presence. He also understood that entrance therein was available only because of God’s abundant lovingkindness. To bow down in reverence signifies an attitude of humility and awe before the Almighty. By asking Yahweh to make His way straight, David is seeking a clear and direct path so he can follow God’s will and stay on the right path even in the face of opposition. This is a great example to follow!

Psalm 17: 7-9 As our eyes are guarded by the autonomic reflexes and as the mother bird protects her chicks under her wing, God watches over and protects His people. David’s faith and assurance in His God were strong because he was living the right way. He did not doubt God’s steadfast love and concern for him. The way he spoke to God is inspirational and a good example of how to pray.

With the many godly inspired psalms that David wrote, we see a man with a wide range of thoughts, feelings, faith, and doubts. He had a life full of many diverse experiences at different stages in life that cultivated a variety of responses. His ability to honestly articulate his thoughts to God is masterfully communicated in his many psalms. Through it all, he always ends up worshipping the God he loves, even if he is sick, depressed, lost, or overwhelmed. In David, we have a great example to follow as we go through life’s battles.

Psalm 25:14; 27:4-5; 31:19-21

Motivated from within God, not because we deserve itPsalm 6:4 David, suffering physically, near death, at wits end, turns to Yahweh and cries out for help. Asking God to return implies a sense of distance from Him, so he prays “Yahweh rescue my soul; save me”. David believed God would help because of His steadfast love. Spiritually minded people understand God’s intervention is not because it is earned or deserved; rather, it is because of His lovingkindness, His steadfast, unchanging love.

All of us experience times of suffering and have feelings of separation from God. David did what we should do – pray and focus on God’s lovingkindness and not our problem or feelings. David ends the psalm confident that God heard his prayer: verse 9 states, Yahweh has heard my supplication, Yahweh receives my prayer.

Psalm 26:1-3 The human history revealed in the Bible and the many warnings to be aware of deception provide ample reason for us to follow David’s lead to invite Yahweh to examine, try, and test the mind and heart. We certainly need His and our Lord Jesus’ help to see things that may be hidden to us. At the time of David’s request, he was in pretty good standing with God and confident that he was walking the walk. Other psalms indicate that he also prayed this way when things were not so good, and he doubted his relationship with God. Good or bad, every day we can benefit from such a request. God does not forcefully intervene into our lives violating our free will. We are responsible to ask for help with faith.

Psalm 31:7-10 In the midst of grave turmoil, David determined to rejoice and be glad in Yahweh’s lovingkindness. He did not stick his head in the sand and act like there were no problems; rather, he expressed his plight and feelings seeking for God’s help. This is a great psalm to focus on when we are suffering.

Psalm 33:4-5 If our eyes are open and seeking, we can see that the earth is full of His lovingkindness. If our eyes are focused on the evil that is in the world, we will be filled with darkness that simulates unhealthy emotions and a distressful life.

Psalm 36:5-10 David’s inspired picturesque words give us some appreciation of Yahweh’s vast and distinctive holy qualities. With His limitless lovingkindness, faithfulness, righteousness, and judgments, He preserves man and beast. How blessed are God’s children for we get to drink from the river of His delights and His fountain of life. In Yahweh’s light, we see light.

QUESTIONS TO CONSDIER:1) The psalmists’ understanding about Yahweh’s lovingkindness was based upon____________________(a. the prophets writings, b. Torah, c. Jesus’ teachings, d. Pauline Epistles)

2) What inspires God’s lovingkindness __________________(a. deserving people, b. circumstances, c. feelings, d. self-motivation)

3) If our eyes are open and seeking, we can see that the _______________ is full of His lovingkindness. (a. heaven, b. church, c. earth, d. Torah)

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Many psalms speak of God’s lovingkindness based upon the psalmists’ understanding of the Torah, just like Jesus and the New Testament writers referenced the Old Testament. For David, the foundational verses most frequently used are the description Yahweh gave Moses about Himself.Exodus 33:18-19 Then Moses said, “I pray You, show me Your glory!” And He said, “I Myself will make all My goodness pass before you and will proclaim the name of Yahweh before you; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious and will show compassion on whom I will show compassion.” (Romans 9:15)

Exodus 34:6-7 Then Yahweh passed by in front of him and proclaimed, “Yahweh, Yahweh God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations.”

Numbers 14:17-20 God led Israel to the Promised Land, but they refused to enter based upon the evil report of the ten elders. They wanted to kill Moses and Aaron, appoint a new leader, and march back to Egypt. God told Moses He was going to wipe them out and start over with Moses. Moses fought for them and held God to His own words recorded in Exodus 34:6-7The Hebrew word chesed in the NASB is translated “lovingkindness”; in the ESV as “steadfast love”; and in the KJV as “mercy”. In Micah 7:18 and 20, chesed was translated “unchanging love”. Lovingkindness, steadfast love, and unchanging love combined provide a good definition of God’s love. In the book of Psalms, chesed is used more than half of the 251 occurrences found in the Bible.Psalm 136:1-26 Steadfast – everlastingPsalm 25:6-7 God has the ability like none other to understand what is going on in our lives. He knows us better than we know ourselves because He knows our hearts and is never deceived by lies and deceptions as we are. His understanding, mercy, forgiveness, and steadfast love combine to make Him compassionate. For us to follow the instructions Jesus gave about being compassionate like our Father God, we must comprehend His compassionate ways.

Psalm 40:5-17 In the context of this psalm, David acknowledges his iniquities, and he is still convinced that Yahweh will have compassion and lovingkindness.

Psalm 51:1-2 Other psalms elaborate on his contriteness, and here we see pure faith in his God based upon his understanding of the Scriptures and God’s past dealings with him.

Psalm 69:13-18 As the king, according to Deuteronomy 17:18-19, he was required to write for himself a Torah scroll (first five books of the Bible) and use it as his guide for life and reigning as king. From Torah, he understood that Yahweh was loving and compassionate. He really believed in the depth of his heart that God’s steadfast love and compassion would motivate Him to help David no matter the circumstances. Likewise, we too should have undaunted faith when seeking God’s help because of His unchanging love and not because of our own merit or deservedness. Psalm 13:5; 52:8

The importance of understanding God’s steadfast love cannot be overstated. We are commanded to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” In this context, we are told to be “perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” We are to love like Him, so understanding His loving ways is essential. God’s lovingkindness is not motivated or determined in any way by what people do or do not do. He does not love us because we deserve to be loved; quite contrary, we do not deserve or earn His love. He loves humanity because He is love. John 3:16 reveals the inclusiveness of His love and the extent of it. God’s love is self-motivated and self-directed. (Romans 5:5-10). We should not confuse His love with His righteous and just judgments, nor should we mix it up with His discipline or punishments.

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Praise Yahweh for His sovereigntyPsalm 47

I will give thanks to Yahweh according to His righteousness and will sing praise to the name of Yahweh Most High. (7:17)

I will give thanks to Yahweh with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonders.I will be glad and exult in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.(9:1-2)

“Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving and pay your vows to the Most High; (50:14)

“Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Yahweh of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah. (46:10)

Psalm 18:1-31; 29:1-11; 95:1-7; 96:1-13; 97:1-12

To worship in holy array or attire suggests that worship should be done in a manner that is holy and reverent. This implies approaching God with respect and sincerity, acknowledging His holiness and righteousness. “Holy array” can be understood as a state of being, set apart and consecrated for worship.

Praise for Yahweh’s CreationPsalm 89:11-12; Psalm 104:24-30

Psalm 8:1-9; 19:1-6; Psalm 104:1-35; Psalm 148:1-14

The spiritual beings praise Him. Revelation 4:8-11; 5:11-14; 7:9-12; 11:16, 17;19:4-7

Psalm 136:1-9 For His creation

Praise for His DeliverancePsalm 136:10-16; 135:1-14; 105; 106

Praise Yahweh for His CovenantsDavidic – Psalm 89:3-4, 20-37Abrahamic – Psalm 105:6-45

GIVE THANKS TO YAHWEHDaily make time to write thanks to Yahweh. Suggestions: His creation, character traits, His wonders, His blessings in your life, His promises, Christ’s accomplishments, what He has blessed you with…Praise and thanks are connected. Psalm 7:17; 30:4, 12; 35:18; 69:30

Psalm 100:4-5 Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. For Yahweh is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 50:14, 23 “Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving and pay your vows to the Most High; “He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; and to him who orders his way aright I shall show the salvation of God.”Psalm 106:1 Praise Yahweh! Oh give thanks to Yahweh, for He is good; for His lovingkindness is everlasting.Psalm 105:1 Oh give thanks to Yahweh, call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples.Psalm 109:30 With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to Yahweh; and in the midst of many I will praise Him.Psalm 107:1 Oh give thanks to Yahweh, for He is good, for His lovingkindness is everlasting.Psalm 136:1-261 Corinthians 14:14-18 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. What is the outcome then? I will pray with the spirit and I will pray with the mind also; I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.Otherwise if you bless in the spirit only, how will the one who fills the place of the ungifted say the “Amen” at your giving of thanks, since he does not know what you are saying? For you are giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not edified. I thank God, I speak in tongues more than you all;

Speaking in tongues was not available when the Psalms were written but is readily available right now.

Follow up to consider this week:• Review the notes, and read the Scriptures not covered in the teaching.• Take time each day to praise Yahweh without saying the word “praise”.• Write praise for Yahweh using your thoughts and words for each topic in the notes – Yahweh’s virtues, His sovereignty, creation, deliverances, and covenants.

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Isaiah 61:1-3 (KJV) The Spirit of the Lord Yahweh is upon me; because Yahweh hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of Yahweh, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness….

Isaiah 61:3 (ESV) …the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit….

The Hebrew word translated “heaviness” and “faint” is Keheh meaning dim, dull, faint, or fade. The garment of praise is not just to cover over the heaviness, rather to replace the heaviness and faint spirit. This garment is not to cover the outer body, but the inner heart. Praise can revitalize the soul so that we do not faint.

Oaks of righteousness – that Yahweh may be glorified. Jesus came that we may receive all we have plus the coming Kingdom AND that Yahweh maybe glorified.60:21

Hebrew 13:14-15 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

No longer do God’s people offer dead animal sacrifices. We offer the sacrifice of praise and thanks. The old covenant sacrifices took thought, time, energy, and expense. Our sacrifice living post Jesus should not be less vigorous. Learning how to praise God and investing the time every day to offer the sacrifice of praise to Him is definitely appropriate.

I will sing to Yahweh as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. (104:33) Ephesians and Colossians

Let sinners be consumed from the earth and let the wicked be no more. Bless Yahweh, O my soul. Praise Yahweh! (104:35)

Blessed be Yahweh, the God of Israel, from everlasting even to everlasting. And let all the people say, “Amen.” Praise Yahweh! (106:48)

With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to Yahweh; and in the midst of many I will praise Him. (109:30)

Praise Yahweh! I will give thanks to Yahweh with all my heart, in the company of the upright and in the assembly. (111:1)

The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever. (111:10)

The dead do not praise Yahweh, nor do any who go down into silence;but as for us, we will bless Yahweh from this time forth and forever. Praise Yahweh! (115:17)

Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous ordinances. (119:164)

Praise Yahweh! Praise the name of Yahweh; Praise Him, O servants of YahwehYou who stand in the house of Yahweh, in the courts of the house of our God!Praise Yahweh, for Yahweh is good; sing praises to His name, for it is lovely.(135:1-3)

I will extol You, my God, O King, and I will bless Your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever. Great is Yahweh, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Your works to another and shall declare Your mighty acts. (145:1-4)

Praise Yahweh! Praise Yahweh, O my soul! I will praise Yahweh while I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. (146:1-2)

Where does praise for Yahweh fit into our day? Set an alarm. Muslims are supposed to pray 5 times a day – at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and evening.

According to the dictionary, praise is the expression of approval or admiration for someone. Praise is usually earned by achievement or accomplishment and is often contrasted with criticism. It is impossible to overstate how deserving Yahweh is of praise. Synonyms are “extol”, “magnify”, “glorify”, “bless”, “celebrate”, “exalt”, “laud”, and “esteem”.

From the beginning, recorded in Gensis 3, Satan has slandered Yahweh and inspires many to criticize Him. Many people blame God for the evil that the devil instigates. We want to give Yahweh what is due Him, praise and thanks.

Psalm 145:1-3 “Extol”, “bless”, and “praise” are synonyms.

4 We praise Him for His works and His mighty acts. Each generation has the responsibility to teach the next how to praise God.

5 In order to praise God, we must meditate on His glorious splendor (His attributes). Also, consider His majesty (his sovereignty and power) and His wonderful works. These things are found in the Scriptures. The Bible provides an abundance of material to use in our praise.

6-7 His power, acts, greatness, goodness, and righteousness are all praiseworthy.

8-21 Speak of his attributes, life, grace, mercy, goodness, and the coming Kingdom. The provision for the existence of all living things is also praiseworthy.

Praise Yahweh for His:VirtuesPowerPresenceSovereigntyJudgmentsRefuge, safe placeCreationCovenantsHopeDeliverancesJerusalemLovingkindness

Praise for Yahweh’s virtues:Psalm 103:1-22 He pardons our iniquities, heals all our diseases, redeems us, lovingkindness, compassion, satisfies with good things, righteousness, judgment, gracious, slow to anger, removes our transgressions.20 The angels praise. Revelation 7:11-12

145:1-21

If you have songs you would like to add to the Worship Yahweh playlist, send a YouTube link to vcf@lhim.org or digital@lhim.org.

The post 3: Praising Yahweh first appeared on Living Hope.

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Lesson 1 and 2 Notes Download

Worship Yahweh Music Playlist

Psalm 2:11-12 Worship Yahweh with reverence and rejoice with trembling.Do homage to the Son….Psalm 29:1-2 Ascribe to Yahweh, O sons of the mighty, ascribe to Yahweh glory and strength. Ascribe to Yahweh the glory due to His name; worship Yahweh in holy array.

Psalm-95:6-7 Come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before Yahweh our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand.

Psalm 99:5 and 9 Exalt Yahweh our God and worship at His footstool; Holy is He. Exalt Yahweh our God and worship at His holy hill, for holy is Yahweh our God. Exalt Yahweh our God and worship at His holy hill, for holy is Yahweh our God.Psalm 22:27 All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to Yahweh, and all the families of the nations will worship before You.Psalm 66:4 All the earth will worship You and will sing praises to You; they will sing praises to Your name.” Selah.Psalm 86:9-10 All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and they shall glorify Your name. For You are great and do wondrous deeds; You alone are God.Many of David’s psalms lack background information regarding their context, but thirteen do share details of their setting:

1. Psalm 3: When he fled from Absalom his son2. Psalm 7: Which he sang to the Lord concerning the words of Cush, a Benjaminite3. Psalm 30: A song at the dedication of the temple4. Psalm 34: When he changed his behavior before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away.5. Psalm 51: When Nathan the prophet went to him after he had gone into Bathsheba6. Psalm 52: When Doeg the Edomite, came and told Saul, “David has come to the house of Ahimelech.”7. Psalm 54: When the Ziphites went and told Saul, “Is not David hiding among us?”8. Psalm 56: When the Philistines seized him in Gath9. Psalm 57: When he fled from Saul in the cave10. Psalm 59: When Saul sent men to watch his house in order to kill him11. Psalm 60: When he strove with Aram-naharaim and with Aram-zobah, and when Joab on his return struck down twelve thousand of Edom in the Valley of Salt12. Psalm 63: When he was in the wilderness of Judah13. Psalm 142: When he was in the cave; a prayer

Reading the history of David in Samuel and Chronicles is most helpful when studying his psalms. The psalms reveal his thinking and heart behind his actions.

QUESTIONS:1. How many Psalms are written by David?(a. 150, b. 73, c. none, d. 75)2. Psalms broaden our ability to effectively communicate with God and to _________Him.(a. acknowledge, b. worship, c. believe, d. honor)3. Asaph headed the service of music in the reigns of David and Solomon. He is referred to as a _______________ and poet.(a. teacher, b. good guy, c. prophet, d. drummer)

If you have songs you would like to add to the Worship Yahweh playlist, send a YouTube link to vcf@lhim.org or digital@lhim.org.

The post 2: The Psalms Help us Worship Yahweh first appeared on Living Hope.

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Lesson 1 and 2 Notes Download

Worship Yahweh Music Playlist

The Hebrew word translated “Psalms” is Tehillim which means praise or song of praise. The Greek word for “Psalms” is Psalmoi derived from the verb psallo which means to play a stringed instrument or to sing to accompaniment of a harp and is associated with the singing of songs or hymns.

The Psalms are a collection of songs, prayers, and poems that express a wide range of human emotions and experiences. They provide an example for individuals to express their feelings, whether they are joy, sorrow, praise, thanksgiving, or lament, in the context of their relationship with God. Psalms broaden our ability to effectively communicate with God and to worship Him. They provide insight into God’s character, His promises, plus the proper attitudes and behaviors for those seeking to live a life of faith. Many of the Psalms reflect David’s personal experiences, struggles, and relationship with God and thereby provide a relatable example for spiritually minded individuals to follow.

David1wrote at least 75 psalms and had great influence upon all the psalms except for Psalm 90 that Moses wrote and the few written during the Babylonian captivity. All the other writers were under the supervision and authority of David.

David was a man of extraordinary love and commitment to God. Acts 13:22 states it well – “…’I HAVE FOUND DAVID the son of Jesse, A MAN AFTER MY HEART, who will do all My will.” David’s first recorded words were – “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God?” (1 Samuel 17:26).

David’s final words 1 Chronicles 29:1-23

Psalm 78:70-72

In the time of Moses, God appointed the Levites to care for and carry the tabernacle of covenant. The priests and Levites were also responsible for the many sacrifices that were offered at the tabernacle. When the tabernacle was permanently placed in Jerusalem, David switched their responsibilities and radically changed how the people related to and worshipped Yahweh.

1 Chronicles 16:1-32; 23:1-6, 24-32

Asaph is attached to 12 psalms: 50, 73-83. He was the son of Berachiah, of the family of Gershom, who headed the service of music in the reigns of David and Solomon (1 Chronicles 6:39; 15:17; 16:5; 2 Chronicles 5:12). There was another man with the same name during the Babylonian exile who wrote 74, 79, and 83.

Asaph was a prophet and poet (2 Chronicles 29:30; Nehemiah 12:46). He was one of David’s main musicians along with Heman and Ethan or Jeduthun. Asaph is first mentioned when the Ark of the covenant was moved to Jerusalem from the home of Obed-Edom (1 Chronicles 15:16-19). He led the service of music in the tent where the Ark was kept (1 Chronicles 16:4-37). Four of Asaph’s sons conducted under him and participated in the dedication of the Temple (2 Chronicles 5:12). The “sons of Asaph” are mentioned as choristers in the Temple (1 Chron 25:1; 2 Chron 20:14). He also headed a school of music with 148 students (Nehemiah 7:44). Some 128 of his family returned from Babylon (Ezra 2:41) and served in Zerubbabel’s temple (Ezra 3:10).

The sons of Korah wrote 11 psalms: 42, 44-49, 84-85, 87, 88.

In Numbers 3, God set aside the Levites for full time service to Him. The three sons of Levi−Gershon, Merari, and Kohath plus their descendants−were responsible for the care of the tabernacle and all the implements, as well as the Ark of the Covenant. Only Aaron’s descendants were allowed to serve as priests.

The Kohathites were responsible for the care of the sanctuary under the direct supervision of Eleazar, son of Aaron. Korah was the grandson of Kohath, and he began to run with another group of Reubenite malcontents, namely, Dathan and Abiram. In pride, they roused a group of 250 men together to challenge the right of Moses and Aaron to the priesthood. Because of the rebellion, the ground under them split apart, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them and their households and all those associated with Korah together with their possessions. Then the earth closed over them. Fire came out from Yahweh and consumed the 250 men who were aligned with them.

Although this clearly marked the end of Korah, some sons, perhaps too young to understand their father’s uprising, were spared (Numbers 26:9-11). After seven successive generations, the prophet Samuel arose from the line of Korah (1 Chronicles 6:31–38 and 1 Samuel 1:1, 20). The Korahites became doorkeepers and custodians for the tabernacle (1 Chronicles 9:19–21). One group of Korahites (1 Chronicles 12:6) joined King David in various military exploits and won the reputation of being expert warriors. During the time of King David, they became the great leaders in choral and orchestral music in the tabernacle. Heman the Kohathite had a place of great importance as a singer, along with Asaph and Ethan or Jeduthun. These individuals played an important role in the thanksgiving services and pageantry when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem. David formed an elaborate organization for song, instrumental music, and prophesying through these men.

Heman the Ezrahite wrote Psalm 88. He was from the sons of Korah. Heman was likely both a songwriter and musician. Heman worked closely with King David and is also named a seer in 1 Chronicles 25:5. He was a Levite mentioned with his family line in 1 Chronicles 6:33; “From the Kohathites: Heman, the musician, the son of Joel, the son of Samuel.” He was the grandson of Samuel, the final judge of Israel who anointed King Saul and King David. Heman is listed as one of three main musicians appointed by King David “for the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals” (1 Chronicles 25:1).

Solomon wrote psalm 72 and 127; Moses psalm 90; Ethan the Ezrahite 89.

We have the following instruction in the New Testament:

Ephesians 5:19-20 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father.

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

We have few examples of how to do the above in the New Testament; nonetheless, in Psalms we have 150 great examples.

If you have songs you would like to add to the Worship Yahweh playlist, send a YouTube link to vcf@lhim.org or digital@lhim.org.

1. David’s name relates to 73 Psalms – 3-9, 11-32, 34-41, 51-65, 68-70, 86, 101, 103, 108-110, 122, 124, 131, 133, 138-145. In the New Testament, he is connected with Psalm 2 in Acts 4:25-26 and with Psalm 95 in Hebrews 4:7.

The post 1: Introduction first appeared on Living Hope.

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