Universal Reconciliation

ETERNAL QUESTIONS
Part 4: Universal Reconciliation

The Basic Case for Universal Reconciliation
1. ET & CI don’t fit with God’s love and power
2. God desires ALL to be saved
3. God is ALL powerful
4. Scripture says Jesus’ took away ALL sins
5. Scripture describes UNIVERSAL salvation

Top 10 Verses

God is love (1 John 4:8)

God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:3b-4)

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. (Col 1:19-20)

And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. (Ephesians 1:9-10)

But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself. (John 12:32)


The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. (1 John 2:2)

That we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe.
(1 Timothy 4:10)

Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. (Romans 5:18-19)

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. (1 John 4:4)

Every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God (Romans 14:11)

Dangers of the Doctrine
1. Could be misunderstood as Universalism
2. Could eliminate a key motivation to Conversion
3. Could breed a mindset of Procrastination

Part 18: David (108-110, 122, 124, 131, 133)

Psalm 108 Combination of 57:7-11, 60:5-12

Psalm 109 Worst Wishes for the Wicked
What was David facing? (1-5)
Did David go overboard? (6-20)
Does David take matters into his own hands? (21-31)

Psalm 110 A King with Character
Who is the LORD? Who is the Lord? (1)
How does Jesus rule in the midst of His enemies? (2)
What is being described as the day of His wrath? (5)

Psalm 122 Celebration City
What was OT Jerusalem symbolic for? (1-2)
How can the church be ‘closely compacted’? (3)
What should we be praying for? (6-9)

Psalm 124 Exciting Escape
Do we often pray when we are in trouble?
Do we often praise when we’ve been helped? (6)

Psalm 131 Humble Hope
Do we have to figure ‘everything’ out? (1)
Can we rightly describe our lives as still and quiet? (2)

Psalm 133 True Unity
Is the church unified? (1)
What is the meaning of the metaphor? (2-3)

Leviticus 1-7

Introduction to Leviticus

WHO: Both tradition and, more importantly, Jesus declare the author to be Moses (Matt 8:4)
WHAT: It's basically a handbook for the priests
WHERE: These instructions were delivered at the base of Sinai and/or in the new tabernacle
WHEN: Not long after the conclusion of the Book of Exodus
WHY STUDY: It shows us the complexity of the sin problem and teaches us about holiness

The 1st 7 chapters describe the 5 different kinds of offerings

1. Burnt offerings
This offering involved the slaughter and burning of a male animal w/o defect. The worshiper would bring that sacrifice, place his hand on its head (transferring his sin to the animal), and then slaughter the creature (showing the just punishment for sin). At this point the priest would, by and large, take over the ceremony of sprinkling and burning.

2. Grain offerings
This was the only non-animal offering. It involved flour and oil which could be offered prepared or unprepared. A small portion was offered to the Lord and the rest went to the priests. No yeast was to be involved, but salt was an important ingredient.

3. Fellowship offerings
The fellowship offering was sometimes a male animal, but sometimes a female animal (both w/o defect). Like the burnt offering, the human hand was placed on the head of the animal before the slaughter. This offering was given freely for thanks or as a result of a vow. Once again, the priests were allowed and expected to make use of the leftovers (with the exception of fat and blood).

4. Sin offerings
This was for unintentional sins. The process was similar (hand on head --> slaughter). For the first time in these descriptions, this type of offerings is not described as having a 'pleasing aroma' to the Lord. This seems to indicate that dealing with sin is a necessary but ugly work.

5. Guilt offerings
This seems almost entirely similar to the sin offerings, but this type seems to have compensation for sin more in mind. Restitution was necessary. This was also not a 'pleasing aroma' to the Lord.

Without describing all the detail of each offering and ritual, it may be enough to say that they are complex b/c the sin problem is great. They are gruesome b/c sin is ugly. They are bloody b/c sin involves death. Despite the complexity, all of these types of offerings are fulfilled with Jesus' 1 sacrifice (Ephesians 5:2, Romans 8:3, Isaiah 53:10). In essence, the entire complex book of Leviticus is fulfilled on 1 day by our great High Priest, Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:33, Romans 3:25, Romans 12:1, Hebrews 5:1, 7:27, 9:9).

Leviticus

Below are the notes from a short series through Leviticus

Leviticus 1-7
Leviticus 8-10
Leviticus 11-15
Leviticus 16-20
Leviticus 21-27

Ezekiel 33-36:15

Ezekiel 33:1-20

Chapter 33 begins a new phase of Ezekiel’s Ministry (see 3:16-27)
1-24 He delivered a message of judgment to Israel
25-32 He delivered a message of judgment to the nations
33-48 He delivers a message of hope to Israel

God uses a parable to comfort Ezekiel & the Exiles (33:1-9)
Ezekiel was still God’s man for the job (33:1)
Ezekiel was only responsible for his own obedience (33:2-9)

Objection 1 Our list of sins is too big
But God doesn’t want anyone to perish
But God is most concerned about the present

Objection 2 That system of justice isn’t fair
But the exiles are too wicked to understand
But God gets to decide what is fair

Ezekiel 33:21-33

A Time of Transition
Ezekiel had experienced 12 years of ‘failed’ ministry (33:21)
News of Jerusalem’s Fall reached the exiles (33:21)
This changed the Exiles’ opinion of Ezekiel (24:25-27, 33:30-33)

A People of Pride
The Survivors had pride in their population (33:24)
The Survivors had pride in their parentage (33:25)
The Survivors had pride in their power (33:26)
Pride comes before a fall (33:27-29)

Ezekiel 34:1-31

The Shepherds and Their Sheep
The Leaders of Israel had failed the people (34:1-10, 18-19)
The Lord Himself would be their Shepherd (34:11-16, 18-20)
The Lord’s True People would be restored (34:17, 21, 25-31)

Ezekiel 35-36:15

From Mountains to Molehills, Molehills to Mountains
The Mountains of Edom would pay the ultimate price (35:1-15)
The Mountains of Israel will rise up again (36:1-15)

Part 17: David (68, 70, 86, 101, 103, 105)

Psalm 68 God’s Great March
Was David excited about God’s great march? (4, 2 Sam 6:14-16)
How does God set the lonely in families? (68:5-6)
Why did God choose Zion instead of Bashan? (68:15-16)
How does Paul utilize verse 18? (18, Ephesians 4:7-13)

Psalm 70+86 David’s Desperate Prayers for Help
Is your heart willing? (86:11a)
Is your heart surrendered? (86:11b-12)

Psalm 101 A King with Character
He pledges personal integrity (101:1-3a)
He pledges no connection with perverse people (101:3b-5, 7)
He pledges to surround himself with men of integrity (101:6)
He pledges to deal with wickedness in his kingdom (101:8)

Psalm 103 God’s Key Characteristics
What does David want to remember about God? (103:2-19)
How does God respond to sinners?
1. He forgives us and removes sins (3, 12)
2. He reveals ways to avoid sin (7)
3. He is patient with us (8)
4. He is angered by sin (9)
5. He is merciful to us (10, 13-16)
How do we receive this mercy? (13, 17-18)

Psalm 105
How can we let the nations know about God? (105:1)
What did God do for Abraham? (105:5-15)
What did God do for Joseph? (105:16-22)
What did God do for Israel during the exodus? (105:23-41)
What did God do for Israel in Joshua’s day? (105:42-45)

Exodus 32-34

Moses was up on the Mountain for 40 days (Exodus 24:18). At some point during that stretch, the people grew weary of waiting and asked Aaron if he would make them a god or gods. Aaron commanded them to bring their jewelry to him, with which he fashioned a golden calf for them to worship. It's difficult to discern here, if they were breaking the 1st or 2nd Commandment (or both). Were they worshiping a different god or were they trying to worship the true God through and image they could see? Whatever the case, their actions cannot be justified. Their compromise on 'worship' led to a compromise in 'morality' and they indulged in revelry after making offerings to the golden calf (32:6).

Moses is, of course, oblivious to all of this while up on the mountain until the Lord informs him of those circumstances. God calls them "your people" (Moses' people). He calls them a stiff-necked people. He tells Moses to leave Him alone so that He can destroy Israel and start over with just Moses. Was this really God's intention or was he motivating Moses to pray? I think the latter since Moses then disobeys the command to be left alone and the prayer is answered. This is the 1st of 4 interesting prayers in this section of Exodus:

Prayer #1
Don't destroy Israel
a. They are YOUR people
b. It's YOUR reputation as stake
c. It's YOUR promise that they'll flourish

God relented in response to Moses' prayer. Moses then went down the mountain, meeting a very patient Joshua along the way. But as they approached the camp they heard the wild party going on below. Joshua thought it was the sound of war, but Moses recognized it as singing. When he saw the dancing and the calf, he became very angry and threw the 10 commandments to the ground. They were shattered. He burned the calf in the fire, scattered it in the water, and made the Israelites drink it. He then questioned Aaron regarding how this had come about. Perhaps he imagined that the Israelites had tortured him into compromising the faith. Unfortunately for Aaron, all that was required for him to compromise was the people asking aggressively. Aaron also lied by claiming that the golden calf had, basically, made itself. Moses recognized the leadership failings of Aaron. He called for all those who were for the Lord to come to his side. Only the Levites came. They were commanded to punish the evil-doers with the sword. 3000 were killed (1 Corinthians 10:8 records the number as 23,000, but this may be the total number killed by sword and plague).

Prayer #2
Forgive Israel of her sins
Moses asks God to forgive Israel or blot his own name out of 'the book' (presumably the book of life). But God responds by declaring that sinners alone will be blotted out. In essence, God says "No" to this prayer request. Only Jesus can atone for sin, Moses has no such power.

The people were punished via plague before re-starting their journey toward the Promised Land. But this time God threatens to not go with them (He states that if He were to go with them, He might get angry and destroy them along the way). He will, instead, send an angel with them. But when Moses and the people heard this threat, they begged for God's presence along their path.

Prayer #3
Moses asks for God's help
a. We don't want to go without your presence
b. We are distinguished by your presence
Response: God agrees to go with Israel

Once again, I don't think God really wanted to NOT go with His people. He wanted them to recognize the necessity of His presence. And, in this case, they did so. The prayer request was granted. Moses takes this "Yes" as a motivation to ask for one more thing:

Prayer #4
Moses asks to see God's glory
But God declares that no one can see His glory directly and live. And so Moses is allowed only to see the backside of God's glory (the glow that remains after). Moses is confronted, in this encounter, with God's nature:

1. Compassion
2. Grace
3. Patience
4. Deep Love
5. Faithfulness
6. Wide Love
7. Forgiveness
8. Justice

Moses is awed by this encounter and, once again, begs God's guidance for their journey. God responds by declaring His covenant with Moses and Israel. He will do wonders and defeat their enemies. They, in turn, are not to make treaties with those people groups. They are to break down the religious infrastructure of their enemies because God is a jealous God. They are reminded of the dangers of inter-faith marriage and the importance of celebrating holy days. This encounter b/w God and Moses lasted another 40 days (34:28).

When Moses came down the mountain, again, after these 40 days, 'his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD.' The people were afraid. Moses ended up putting a veil over his face afterward whenever he came from the presence of the LORD. Paul discusses these things in 2 Corinthians 3:7-18.

Exodus 25-31, 35-40

The Bulk of what remains in the Book of Exodus describes the Tabernacle. Moses was told, by God, to ask the Israelites to bring free will offerings from the treasures they'd collected from Egypt. These offerings were to be high quality materials and used to make a tabernacle (tent). Moses would know what to construct based on what he was going to be shown (a vision, it seems, of a heavenly tabernacle). Below I will summarize the tabernacle's contents:

A series of tent walls separated the Israelite camps from the courtyard of the tabernacle (27:9-19, 38:9-20). Upon going into the courtyard, the first thing you'd see would have been the altar of burnt offerings (27:1-8, 38:1-7). Next, on one's way toward the tabernacle, you'd come across the basin for washing (30:17-21, 38:8). Once passing through the current into the tented area, you'd be inside the Holy Place. This room contained 3 pieces of furniture. If you were to look to your right, you'd see the Table (25:23-30, 37:10-16). To the left, you'd see the Lampstand (25:31-39, 37:17-24, ) which was lit by oil (27:20-21). Toward the front, you'd see the Altar of Incense (30:1-10, 37:25-29). Behind the Altar of Incense was another curtain which led into the Holy of Holies. This final room contained only 1 piece of furniture: The Ark of the Covenant (25:10-22, 37:1-9). All of these materials were built by skilled and spirit filled craftsman (31:1-11, 35:30-36:7). Besides pieces of furniture, the priests who worked in the tabernacle area were to wear special dress (28, 39:1-31) and be consecrated (29). Moses inspected all the work (39:32-43) and set up the tabernacle (40:1-33). Finally, a cloud covered the Tent of Meeting and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle.

5 Key Principles Emerge from the Story of the Tabernacle

1. The Preciousness of God's Presence (indicated by precious materials)
2. The Seriousness of Our Sins (indicated by complex sacrificial system)
3. The Mobility of our God (indicated by portability of tabernacle)
4. The Temporal Nature of this Age (indicated by temporary materials used)
5. The Centrality of Worship (indicated by encampment around tents)

Eternal Torment

WHAT’S YOUR VIEW OF HELL?

Who? Is it for the really bad? Un-evangelized?
What? Are the fires literal or figurative?
Where? Is it in another realm or in the earth?
When? Do people go to hell now or later?
Why? What is God’s purpose in creating hell?

3 VIEWS OF ‘HELL’
1. Eternal Judgment
2. Conditional Mortality
3. Universal Reconciliation

‘HELL’ IN THE OLD TESTAMENT?

Sheol (65 times in OT)
Num. 16:30, 1 Kings 2:6, Job 14:13, Psalm 9:17
Psalm 139:8, Ecc. 9:10, Isaiah 14:9-11
Means ‘the grave’ or ‘underground’ or ‘death’
Never used as a place of torment
Conveyed as a place of limited or no activity

‘HELL’ IN THE NEW TESTAMENT?

Hades (11 times in NT)
Matt 11:23, Luke 16:23, Acts 2:27, 31
1 Cor. 15:55, Rev. 20:13-14
Greek translation of the Hebrew word ‘Sheol’
Uniquely described in Luke 16 as a place of torment
Distinguished from the Lake of Fire in Revelation 20

Tartarus (1 time in NT)
2 Peter 2:4
Place of suffering in Greek mythology
Place of punishment for angels in NT

Gehenna (12 times in NT)
Matt 5:29-30, Matt 10:28,
Parallel to O.T. Valley of Hinnom
Garbage heap of Jerusalem (literal)
Valley of Slaughter (symbolic)

Other References:
Eternal fire: Matt 3:12
Weeping & Gnashing: Matt 8:12
Everlasting Destruction: 2 Thes. 1:9
Torment w/o rest Rev. 14:9-11

The Lake of Fire (6 times in NT)
Revelation 19:20, 20:10, 20:14-15, 21:8
Place of eternal torment for Beast, False Prophet & Satan
Final destination for death and the grave
Final destination for wicked (those not in Book of Life)

The Moment You Die

WHAT DID THE ANCIENT WORLD BELIEVE?

Option A Disembodied and Dead
Option B Disembodied and Worse Off
Option C Disembodied, but Fairly Normal
Option D Disembodied and Better Off
Option E Disembodied and Diefied
Option F Disembodied, Awaiting Resurrection
Option G Embodied, but Sleeping/Unconscious

WHY SOME BELIEVE IN ‘SOUL SLEEP’
1. They take the majority meaning of ‘soul’
2. They take the monist view of our makeup
3. They disagree with the translation ‘hell’

KEY PASSAGES

Enoch Genesis 5:24
Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.

Elijah 2 Kings 2:11
As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind.

The Ghost of Samuel 1 Samuel 28:11
And he said, "Bring up Samuel for me."

David’s Departed Son 2 Samuel 12:23
I will go to him, but he will not return to me."

The Wisdom of Solomon Ecclesiastes 3:21
Who knows if the spirit of man rises upward and if the spirit of the animal goes down into the earth?"

Rich Man & Lazarus Luke 16:23
In hell, where he was in torment

The Transfiguration Matthew 17:3
Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus.

Thief on the Cross Luke 23:43
Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

The Martyrs Revelation 20:4
I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded

My Conclusion:
I think the weight of the evidence favors consciousness for the righteous after death. The fate of the wicked upon death is, to me, a cloudier issue. The Old Testament doesn't speak of consciousness after death. The New Testament just hints at it within controversial passages.

Built for Eternity?

TENTATIVE SERIES OUTLINE

Week 1 Intro: Are we Made for Eternity?
Week 2 What happens when we die?
Week 3 Hell: Eternal Torment?
Week 4 Hell: Universal Reconciliation?
Week 5 Hell: Conditional Mortality?
Week 6 Heaven: What Will Heaven be Like?
Week 7 Heaven: What Will Heaven be Like?
Week 8 Conclusion: Living w/Heaven in Mind

ARE WE MADE FOR ETERNITY?

Evidence A We Naturally Believe in God
Evidence B We Imagine Something Greater
Evidence C We Treat Death as an Intruder

WOULD ADAM & EVE HAVE LIVED FOREVER?

Option A Unconditional Mortality
Death was always part of the plan
Option B Conditional Immortality
Conditioned upon eating from tree
Option C Unconditional Immortality
People are immortal by nature

* I favor option B. I think Adam & Eve probably did eat from the tree of life. I'd imagine it was the first tree they ate from. But once they had sinned against God, they were no longer granted that privilege. I think the tree of life was meant to be daily nourishment. I don't think humans are, by nature, immortal. Our immortality is conditioned upon our being connected to God. He alone is immortal.

WHAT IS A SOUL?

Option A Materialist View (Atheistic)
Flesh = Person
Option B Monistic View (Ancient Hebrew)
Person w/various aspects = Person
Option C Dichotomist View (Ancient Greek)
Flesh + Spirit = Soul/Person
Option D Trichotomist View (Charismatic)
Flesh + Soul + Spirit = Person

* I favor option B, while allowing for option C (I don't consider the 2 all-together different). By primary biblical usage, we don't HAVE souls, we ARE souls. I believe in the holistic nature of mankind. We are 1 soul with various aspects (material & immaterial being a typical distinction). Unlike some monists, however, I believe the immaterial aspect of a person can have some level of consciousness after death. This consciousness is based on their spiritual connection to an eternal Father (one could say they exist within the memory of God).

HOW DO WE GET OUR HUMAN SPIRIT?

Option A Pre-existence View
Eternal spirit awaiting body
Option B Traducianist View
Human spirit passed by reproduction
Option C Creationist View
Each human spirit created by God

I favor option B. I believe the immaterial aspect of mankind is 'built in' so to speak. The immaterial is passed along with the material code upon conception. Every conception involves the creation of a new human being. Option C sounds like a good and spiritual position, but raises questions as to WHEN God places a spirit into the body. If at conception, OK. If at birth, this would open the door to abortion prior to birth.

Eternity Series

Below you will find the handouts from a series on the 'Invisible'

Why is God Invisible?
All About Angels?
The Origin of Satan
The Work of Satan
Demons/Evil-Spirits

Below you will find the handouts from a series on 'Eternity'

Were We Made for Eternity?
What Happens When we Die?
Hell: Eternal Torment?
Hell: Universal Reconciliation?
Hell: Conditional Mortality?
Heaven: Death to Judgment Day
Heaven: The New Earth
Heaven: Common Questions

Ezekiel 25-32

Ezekiel 25-32
This section was not a warning, but a message of doom for Jewish ears
This section assured Jews that the nations were not escaping judgment
This section assured Jews that the nations were not available as allies
This section focused on Israel’s closest and most strategic neighbors

Against Ammon 25:1-7 7 verses
WHY Because they rejoiced at Judah’s downfall
RESULT They’ll be invaded, exterminated & desolated

Against Moab 25:8-11 4 verses
WHY Because they treated Judah like all the other nations
RESULT They’ll be invaded, unremembered & punished

Against Edom 25:12-14, 35:1-15 18 verses
WHY Because they took revenge on Judah
RESULT They’ll be killed, laid to waste & fall by hand of the Jews

Against Philistia 25:15-17 3 verses
WHY Because they took revenge on Judah
RESULT They’ll be cut-off, destroyed, punished

Against Tyre 26:1 – 28:19 76 verses
WHY Because they rejoiced at Judah’s downfall & their King was prideful
RESULT They’ll be attacked again and again, eliminated & broken

Against Sidon 28:20-26 7 verses
WHY Because they maligned Judah
RESULT They’ll be punished with plagues

Against Egypt 29-32 97 verses
WHY Because of their pride and mistreatment of Israel.
RESULT They’ll be caught like a fish and made into a lowly kingdom

Part 16: David (51-65)

Honest to God
Psalms of David (51-65)

Psalm 51+65 On the Subject of Sin
Does God forgive or cleanse us from sin? (51:2)
Did David commit a sin of ignorance? (51:3)
Had David sinned against God alone? (51:4)
Was David really a bad baby? (51:5)
Is it possible to lose the Holy Spirit? (51:11)
Did God want the sacrificial system? (51:16, 19)

Is it telling that even the non-religious pray? (65:2)
Do we often wait until we are overwhelmed? (65:3)
Is God an environmentalist? (65:5-13)

Psalm 52-64 When Under Attack
Should we laugh at the fate of the wicked? (52:6-7)
Have you been attacked by a stranger? (54:3)
Have you been attacked by an enemy (55:12)
Have you been attacked by a friend? (55:13-14)

What can mortal man do to us? (56:4, 11)
What often happens to the wicked? (57:6, 64:8)
What does he mean by wicked from birth (58:3)
How does this relate to Proverbs 24:17? (59:9)

When under attack, do you ever doubt God? (60:1)
Was David making deals with God? (61:8)
What if God weren’t strong AND loving? (62:11-12)
What did David do in his dry times? (63:6)

Exodus 19-24

This section describes the giving of the 10 Commandments (and other laws). The story is told in the form of a marriage covenant. The Israelites are at the base of Mount Sinai. God's record of romance toward Israel is mentioned (19:4), His proposal is made (19:5-6) & their acceptance of the proposal is recorded (19:7-8). The covenant is conditional (IF they obey THEN they will be God's treasured possession, a Kingdom of Priests). The covenant was confirmed amidst thunder, lightning & trumpet blasts. We know, of course, from the NT that Israel did not keep the covenant and this 'kingdom' was taken from them and given to the church (Matthew 21:43, 1 Peter 2:9).


My discussion of the 10 Commandments can be found HERE. Briefly, the first 4 commandments focus on our relationship to God. The last 6 commandments focus on our relationship to fellow man. The rest of the section deals with both details and additional laws regarding servants, personal negligence, property rights, social responsibility, Sabbath, holy-days. Much of our (U.S.) law is founded in these 'Mosaic' laws. The people accept these terms and Moses made a written record of the covenant (24:3-4). The people had been hearing the voice of God give these commands, but passionately asked that Moses mediate, for fear of God's voice.

Part 15: David (30-32, 34-41)

Honest to God
Psalms of David (30-32, 34-40)

Psalm 30
This Psalm and its title seem to be at odds. The Psalm seems to be about a man (David) who has overcome a physical illness and is, therefore, praising God. The title, however, suggests that this was a song for the dedication of the Temple. How do the title and the content fit together? Nahum Sarna suggests that while the Psalm was originally a praise of God for delivering from illness, it became a metaphor for the delivery of the group (downtrodden Israel) from exile to restoration.

Worth noting in Psalm 30
- The Psalm may seem private at first (1-3), but is for public worship (4).
- The grave/sheol (3) is non-literal (death's door)
- The Psalmist believed that his suffering was due to God's anger (5) at his pride (6)
- The Psalmist was brought to a point of humility (8)
- The Psalmist pledged to return to a life of praise (9-10)
- The Psalmist seems to feel that death is the end of potential praise (9)
- The prayer was answered, thus he is sharing praise with the congregation (11-12)

Psalm 30/31 God Rescues
How temporary are troubles? (5)
What are the pros & cons of hope?

Psalm 32/38-40 Dealing with Sin
Try to keep it quiet (3-4)
What should happen if we try this?
Acknowledge it to God (5)
What are the results of these methods?
Sin must be dealt with at a heart level (39:2-3)
What impact do sins have on us? (40:12)

Psalm 34 Free From Fear
Does God answer prayer (4, 6, 15-16
Are there good & bad fears? (4, 9)

Psalm 35/41 Prayer for Vindication

Psalm 36 The Nature of the Wicked
Do many people fit this description? (1-4)

Psalm 37 The Future of Righteousness
Why shouldn’t we envy the wicked? (1)
What kind of desires will God grant? (4)
What are we waiting for? (9, 11, 22, 29, 34)
Are you a taker or a giver? (21)
What does God give to the righteous? (25)

What Makes You a Christian?

What Makes You a Christian?

~75%+ of Americans call themselves Christian
~Since Constantine, we have nominal Christians
~What makes you a Christian?

1. Is it admitting God exists?
- Creation --> Creator
- But even satan believes this

2. Is it coming from a Christian family?
- Coming from a Christian family is a great testimony
- But it's not about genetics (John 8:31-44a)

3. Is it reading your bible?
- The Bible is an awesome book which stood the test of time
- It's not how many times you've read the Bible
- It's how many times the Bible has read you

4. Is it attending church?
- Church is the body and bride of Christ
- But attending church can be merely a ritual

5. Is it praying a prayer to avoid hell?
- Hell is a real place worthy of being scared about
- But fear of hell must be a catalyst for something more

6. Is it praying a prayer to make heaven?
- Heaven is going to be a wonderful (not boring) place
- But hope of heavne must be a catalyst for something more

7. It's following Jesus

Ezekiel 19-24

Ezekiel 19:1-14 2 Parables of Coming Destruction
Lion Kings
The poem in is in the style of a Hebrew funeral lament
The lioness seems to represent Queen Hamutal
The first young lion clearly represented Jehoahaz
The second young lion may have been Zedekiah
The allegory indicates that Zedekiah will be defeated
Vine Branches
The mother (vine) was, once again, representing Hamutal
The strongest branch represents Zedekiah
The destruction indicates that Zedekiah will be defeated
The re-planting and 2nd fire indicate no more hope for Zedekiah
They needed to stop having hope and start having repentance

Ezekiel 20:1-44 A Fresh History Course
Were the Israelites righteous in Egypt? (20:8)
Why did God spare them in Egypt? (20:9)
Were the Israelites righteous in the desert? (20:13, 21)
Why did God spare them in the desert? (20:14, 22)
Were the Israelites righteous in the Promised Land? (20:28)
What did God do in response to their sin? (20:23)
Were the Israelites righteous in their Exile? (20:31, 32)
What was God going to do in response to their sin? (20:39, 44)

Ezekiel 20:45-21:32 The Coming Swords
Ezekiel wanted to make sure the exiles understood (20:49)
The Lord’s sword was coming against Jerusalem (21:1-17)
The sword of Nebuchadnezzar was coming against Jerusalem (21:18-27)
The sword against the Ammonites (21:28-32)

Ezekiel 22:1-31 The Sins of Jerusalem
Ezekiel lists the leading sins of Jerusalem (22:1-16)
When Jerusalem is burnt, no valuables will be found (22:17-22)
The Princes, Priests, Prophets & Public are all guilty (22:23-31)

Ezekiel 23:1-49 Tale of 2 Sisters
Oholah represents Samaria (Northern Kingdom)
Oholibah represents Jerusalem (Southern Kingdom)
Both sisters/cities had prostituted themselves
Both sisters/cities would end up destroyed

Ezekiel 24:1-14 The Cooking Pot
Ezekiel records the day of the beginning of the seige
The Pot represents the city of Jerusalem
The flesh & bones represent the people in Jerusalem
The fire represents the judgment of God (via the Babylonians)
Jerusalem was not a city worth saving

Ezekiel 24:15-27 The Death of Ezekiel’s Wife
Ezekiel was told that his wife would die
His wife represented Jerusalem
Ezekiel represented the Exiles
Ezekiel’s listeners would finally realize he had been a truth-teller

Ezekiel 18

Their Popular Proverb (18:1-2)
“The fathers eat sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge”

1. The exiles came from a wicked generation
2. The exiles blamed their predicament on their fathers
3. The exiles viewed themselves as innocent

??? What’s the difference b/w consequences & responsibility for sin?
??? Do we sometimes blame our ‘blood’ for our badness?
??? Is the reverse ever the case (‘goodness’ based on ‘blood’)?

The Proper Proverb (18:2-20)
“The soul who sins is the one who will die”

1. A righteous man will surely live
2. A violent man will surely die
3. Eternal life is not based on genetics

??? If we can’t pin the blame on them, who’s left to blame?

The Case of One Changing Course (18:21-29)

1. If a wicked man turns to righteousness, he will live
2. If a righteous man turns to wickedness, he will die
3. The exiles were in need of some serious course change

The Proper Course of Action (18:30-32)

1. Repent! (Turn away from all your offenses)
2. Live! (Get a new heart and a new spirit)

Part 14: David (23-29)

Psalm 23
How is God like a shepherd?
How are we like sheep?
How did Jesus utilize this Psalm?

Psalm 24
Who is the God of this world? (1)
Who can approach God? (4)

Psalm 25
Does God forget our past sins? (7)
How serious was David about sin? (7, 11, 18)

Psalm 26-28
Where do you love to be? (26:8, 27:4)
How does 27:4 compare to Proverbs 30:7-8?
Was David merely waiting for heaven? (13)
What happens if we ignore the church? (28:5)

Psalm 29
This has been called "the Psalm of the 7 Thunders" b/c 'voice of the Lord' occurs 7 times (see Rev 10:3). The Psalm is written as a reflection of a thunder storm.

Part 13: David (17-22)

Psalm 17 Deserving David
Does David sound self-righteous? (1-5)
Do the wicked benefit from wickedness? (14)
Did David understand the after life? (15)

Psalm 18 God’s Protection
Does anyone have a story of protection? (2)
On what basis does God give rewards? (20-27)
Who was David’s source of strength? (32)

Psalm 19 God’s Revelation
Israel, throughout its history, has had not only to fight for its physical survival, but also for the survival of its soul (Sarna, 71). Israel was surrounded by false religions that ascribed deity to aspects of nature or to nature itself. Israel would commonly take the worship of these false religions and conform them to its own staunch monotheism. This Psalm, instead of worship the heavenly bodies, gives praise to the Creator of those bodies. Sarna believes this Psalm was composed after the reforms of Josiah (622 BC) and to combat the worship of the sun.

The Psalm divides into 2 parts: Creation declares the glory of God (General revelation, 1-6). Torah declares the glory of God (Special revelation, 7-13). While some may find this transition abrupt, Sarna argues for a correspondence between the light that comes from the sun and the light that comes through the word of God. Cosmic forces and the word of God were seen as twin sources for the knowledge of God (Sarna, 75). In section one the word for God is "El" (generic), but in section two the word for God is YHWH (particular). Thus, it might be argued that nature points to the reality of a deity while torah points to the particular identity of said deity.

Words for law... law, decree, precepts, commandment, fear, ordinances
Characteristics of law... perfect, sure, right, clear, pure, true, endures, righteous
Effects of law... revives soul, makes wise, rejoices the heart, enlightens


Psalm 20 God Save the King
Psalm 21 God’s Grace to the King

Psalm 22 Christ’s Crucifixion
Who famously quoted this Psalm? (1)
Did the Father really forsake the Son? (1, 24)
How accurately does this describe crucifixion?
How do you interpret the ‘all’ in 27-29?

Part 12: David (11-16)

Psalms of David (11-16)

Psalm 11 When Under Attack
1. What was David advised to do? (11:1)
2. What did David decide to do?
3. What ‘foundations’ are under attack today?

Psalm 12 Living in a Land of Liars
1. What % of politicians do you trust?
2. What % of people do you trust?
3. Can any human being be 100% trusted?
4. Whose words are flawless? (12:6)

Psalm 13 Venting Frustrations
1. Do you deal with despair or bottle it up?

Psalm 14 Fools & Family
1. How does the Bible define an atheist?
2. What is the condition of Adam’s family?
3. How can we be part of God’s family?

Psalm 15 Seeking God’s Sanctuary
1. How do we seek God’s presence?
2. Which characteristic is toughest to follow?

Psalm 16 Being Led by the Lord
1. How was David instructed at night?
2. Do you ever skip sleep to pray?
3. Has God ever spoken to you in a dream?
4. How is verse 10 quoted in the N.T. ?

Part 11: David (2-9)

PSALM 2
~ Often sung at the crowning a new king

1 Why do the nations conspire
and the peoples plot in vain?
2 The kings of the earth take their stand
and the rulers gather together against the LORD
and against his Anointed One.
3 "Let us break their chains," they say,
"and throw off their fetters."

New Kings face external & internal resistance
~ The Nations/Kings represent the Gentiles
~ The Peoples/Rulers represent the Jews
The Reason for Rebellion is self-will

4 The One enthroned in heaven laughs;
the Lord scoffs at them.
5 Then he rebukes them in his anger
and terrifies them in his wrath, saying,
6 "I have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill."

God is already the King where it counts
Any opposed to the true King face wrath
God had/has installed a King on earth

7 I will proclaim the decree of the LORD :
He said to me, "You are my Son;
today I have become your Father.
8 Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance,
the ends of the earth your possession.
9 You will rule them with an iron scepter;
you will dash them to pieces like pottery."

God & His Anointed share a special relationship
~ The Anointed can accomplish God-sized goals
~ The Anointed can access God-sized power

10 Therefore, you kings, be wise;
be warned, you rulers of the earth.
11 Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry
and you be destroyed in your way,
for his wrath can flare up in a moment.
Blessed are all who take refuge in him.

The Gentiles & Jews should reconsider rebellion
~ They should serve the Lord with fear
~ They should rejoice with trembling
~ They should seek right-relations to the Son

Psalm 2 in the life of David
~ David was anointed by God as King
~ David faced external & internal resistance
~ David accomplished God-sized goals
~ David accessed God-sized power

Psalm 2 in the life of Christ
~ Christ was anointed by God as King
~ Christ faced external & internal resistance
~ Christ accomplished God-sized goals
~ Christ accessed God-sized power

New Testament Quotations of Psalm 2
~ Acts 4:23-31, 13:32-37
~ Hebrews 1:1-5, 5:4-5
~ Revelation 2:26-27

PSALM 3
~ Written by David when he fled from Absalom
~ Historical context found in 2 Samuel 15-19

Categories of Opposition
1. Your enemies gang-up on you
2. Your allies turn against you
3. Your spiritual status is questioned

Combating Opposition
1. Depend on God to defend you
2. Maintain honest communication with God
3. Truly cast your cares to Him (be at peace)
4. Let God be the Judge of the wicked

PSALM 4
~ Written by David for the Director of Music
~ Probably written soon after Psalm 3

How to Pray for your Enemies
1. Pray that they will see their sin
2. Pray that they will sense their separation
3. Pray that they will search their hearts
4. Pray that they will sacrifice their will
5. Pray that they will seek the Lord


PSALM 5
~ Written by David for the Director of Music

The Wicked (arrogant, liars, etc)…
1. Cannot dwell in God’s presence
2. Are destroyed by God’s judgment
3. Cannot be trusted b/c they speak lies
4. Are in rebellion against God

The Righteous (humble, dependant, etc)…
1. Come into God’s presence with humility
2. Are given direction from the Lord
3. Can be glad as they sing for joy
4. Are in the favor of God

PSALM 6
~Written by David for the Director of Music

3 Steps to Overcoming Obstacles
1. Recognize that you need mercy too
2. Cry out for the mercy that you need
3. Trust in the Lord for deliverance

PSALM 7
~ Written by David when he was falsely accused
~ Historical context found in 1 Samuel 24:9-11

How to respond to false accusations
1. Let God defend you
2. Check your heart
3. Look forward & Pray for Divine justice
4. Recognize the justice that you see daily
5. Praise God no matter what

Psalm 8

The superscription of this Psalm mentions 'Gittith.' Various opinions emerge as to what this refers to.

1) Some think it's connected to 2 Sam 6:10-11
2) Some see it as being a Philistine (Gath) melody
3) Some think it's a type of instrument
4) Some think it's a vintage (drinking) melody (GTH similar to Hebrew for winepress, see Judges 21:21)

1 O LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!

This phrase brackets the Psalm. LORD (caps) is the Hebrew word Yahweh (Israel's God). Lord is the Hebrew Adon-ai. Since Hebrews wouldn't say YHWH, they replaced it with Adonai (which for them meant the same thing. They took the vowels from Adonai (AOA) to fill in the YHWH to create JAHOVAH. Greek uses Kurios for Lord, but this is a title (not a name). Elohim was a more generic term for God at first, but became more of a proper noun). A name spoke to ones character. The Psalmist is not content with henotheism and states that YHWH has great character throughout the earth.

You have set your glory
above the heavens.
2 From the lips of children and infants
you have ordained praise
because of your enemies,
to silence the foe and the avenger.
3 When I consider your heavens,
the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which you have set in place,

The first 3 verses of this Psalm shows us that God is TRANSCENDANT... He is ‘above the heavens’. But this belief alone can be held by Muslims and Deists alike. It must be balanced by God's immanence. God is IMMANENT... He is ‘mindful’ of ‘man’

4 what is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
5 You made him a little lower
than the heavenly beings
and crowned him with glory and honor.
6 You made him ruler
over the works of your hands;
you put everything under his feet:
7 all flocks and herds,
and the beasts of the field,
8 the birds of the air,
and the fish of the sea,
all that swim the paths of the seas.
9 O LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name
in all the earth!

God is first seen as being so transcendent, and creation itself so large in comparison to man. And yet, humanity was made in the image of God.

The last 6 verses of this Psalm show God's immanence, but just like His transcendence shouldn't be held in isolation, nor should His immanence be (as the Buddhists and new-age'rs do). God is both transcendent and immanent. This sets Christianity apart.

This Psalm is quoted in Matthew 21:16 (verse 2) and Hebrews 2:5-9 (verses 4-6). The latter contains the following progression of thought:

1. Man was made to reign
2. Man does not reign
3. Jesus reigned as/for man

It is extremely clear that man was made to reign. We instinctively attempt to reign over nature, over the animal kingdom, and over ourselves. But it is equally clear that we fail miserably at these attempts. It has been reported that in recorded history there are only 292 days of warlessness on earth. We do anything but reign. Thankfully, Jesus reigned and reigns over nature & sin. Surprisingly, though, it was through suffering that He acquired this reign.

Psalms of David (2-9)

Psalm 2 & 9 God & the Nations
The nations are in rebellion (2:1-3)
God is not threatened (2:4-6)
God’s plan focuses on His Son (2:7-9)
Wise people align with the Son (2:10-12)

Psalm 3 & 7 Opposition & Accusations
Be in the right (3:1-2, 7:3-5)
Let God be your defender (3:3, 7:1-2)
Keep communicating w/God (3:4, 7:6-9)
Realize worrying won’t help (3:5-6)
Realize justice does come (7:10-16)
Let God be the Judge (3:7-8)
Praise God no matter what (7:17)

Psalm 4 Praying for Enemies
That they will see their sin (2)
That they will sense their separation (3)
That they will search their hearts (4)
That they will sacrifice their will (5)
That they will seek the Lord (6)

Psalm 5 & 6 The Righteous Overcome

Psalm 8 Basic Facts of History
God is transcendent & immanent (1-4)
Man was made to reign (5-8)
Man does not reign (Hebrews 2:5-9)
Jesus reigned as man (Hebrews 2:5-9)

Part 10: Anonymous '119' (119)

Honest to God
Psalms 119

This is the longest chapter in the Bible
There are 22 sections (1 for each letter)
Children used this to memorize alphabet
All but 5 verses refer to God’s word
25 The Law 23 The Word 23 The Laws
22 The Commands 21 The Precepts
21 The Statutes 21 The Decrees, etc

Beth (9-16) How to Stay Pure
1. Hide God’s word in your heart
2. Recount God’s word w/your lips
3. Meditate on God’s word w/your mind

Lamedh (89-96) The Perfect Word
1. God holds the world together
2. God’s word endures forever
3. God alone has boundless perfection

Mem (97-104) How to Get Smart
1. You can be wiser than your enemies
2. You can be wiser than your teachers
3. You can be wiser than your elders

Part 9: Anonymous 'Hezekiah' (121, 128-130, 134, 137)

Honest to God
Psalms Possibly by Hezekiah

Hezekiah was a God-fearing man who became King of Judah in 715 BC and reigned independently until 697 before reigning alongside his son Manasseh from 697-686. When he was about 40 years old (around 700 BC), he became very ill and the Lord revealed to him that he was going to die. But he prayed for healing and was granted 15 more years of life (Read 2 Kings 20:1-11).

Psalms 120-134 is a unified section called the ‘Songs of Degrees.’ There are various ideas about how these Psalms were used:

1. An old Jewish tradition says they were sung on 15 steps of the Temple.
2. The majority of scholars believe they were sung by the pilgrims on their way to visit Jerusalem for annual festivals OR returning to Jerusalem from exile in Babylon.
3. Others believe that 10 were written by Hezekiah to celebrate the shadow going back 10 degrees in 2 Kings 20:10 and 5 Psalms were to celebrate the fact that he was given 15 more years of life.
4. Finally, some believe they were written to celebrate the Ark of the Covenant finally ascending to its destination: the temple.

Which idea sounds most reasonable to you?

(I was at snow camp this week, so I didn't get to teach these chapters)

Psalm 121
Transitions from discontent (120) to trust (121)

Psalm 128
Fear of the Lord leads to long term blessing

Psalm 129
The wicked win some battles, but not the war

Psalm 130
Even as believers, we are fallen being needing mercy

Psalm 134
Each of us has a special role to play in praise

Psalm 137
When we're in exile, we're in no mood to sing

Part 8: Anonymous 'History' (106, 114, 126, 132, 136)

Psalm 106 A Lifestyle of Worship
The Art of Worship:
Adoration (1-3)
Confession (6-7)
Thanksgiving (8-11)
Supplication (4-5)
The Result:
Believed promises, sang praise (12)
The Problem:
They stopped worshipping (13)
They lacked memory (13, 21)
They lacked purity (34-35)
The Result:
They faced judgment (40-43)
The Solution:
Zealous leaders (23, 30)
A Compassionate God (44-46)

Psalm 114 The Great Escape
Psalm 126 From Tears to Joy
Psalm 132 Rest for the Ark of God
Psalm 136 In Praise of God’s Love

Part 7: Anonymous 'Vindication' (71, 92, 94, 102, 118, 120, 123, 135)

Psalms of Vindication
By Anonymous Authors

Psalm 71 The Benefits of Old Age (probably author is David, see Psalm 31:1)
~ A strong and storied testimony (6-7)
~ A well-practiced ability to praise (14)
~ A proper perspective of time (15)
~ A chance to invest in others (18)
~ A better understanding of trials (20)
~ A better sense of God’s justice (24)
~ A continuing fruitfulness (92:14)

Psalm 92 Stand the Test of Time
~ The wicked flourish like grass (7)
~ The righteous flourish like palm trees (12)
This Psalm admits that flourishing is possible for all, righteous and wicked alike, but the length of the prosperity is determined by the Lord. The righteous will be vindicated.

Psalm 94 God Sees the Wicked
It is foolish to think wickedness escapes the recognition of God
1-7 Describes the wicked
8-11 Describes how they aren't tricking God
12-23 Describes the vindication the righteous will receive

Psalm 102 The Cure for Feeling Frail
His Feelings: Loneliness, dread, pain, frailty
His Cure:
1) Identify with an enduring God
2) Identify with an enduring city
The cure for these feelings is not self-help, but help from God and the church

Psalm 118 Confidence in the Lord
* Verses 8-9 are the center verses of the Bible

Psalm 120 Quest for Truth & Peace
This is the first of the Psalms of ascent (120-134). The author looked forward to freedom from the lying, warring people he had been dwelling with.

Psalm 123 A Merciful Master
A merciful master is hard to find, but God is such a master

Psalm 135 A Psalm of All Types
This Psalm is a good look at the various genres
1-7, 21 Praise
8-12 History
13-14 Vindication
15-20 2 Ways

Part 6: Anonymous 'Praise' (33, 66, 117, 146, 150)

Psalms of Praise
By Anonymous Authors

Psalm 33 God & the Nations
1-9 The Greatness of God
10-22 The Proper Response of the Nations
---- 10-11 Seek His Plan
---- 12-15 Live by His Law
---- 16-22 Trust in Him

Psalm 66
1-4 Praise in all formats (shout, sing, say, bow, etc)
5-9 God's Activity
10-12 God's Discipline
13-20 Our Proper Response

For more anonymous Psalms of Praise, see:
67, 93, 97-100, 104, 111, 113, 115-116

Psalm 117 is the shortest and middle chapter of the Bible

Psalm 146 Only God is Worthy of Trust
6 He is ABLE
7-9 He is WILLING

For more anonymous Psalms of Praise, see:
147-149

Psalm 150 All About Praise
WHO: YOU, EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH
WHAT: PRAISE GOD
WHERE: IN HIS SANCTUARY, IN HIS MIGHTY HEAVENS
WHY: FOR HIS ACTS OF POWER, SURPASSING GREATNESS
HOW: TRUMPET, HARP, LYRE, TAMBOURINE, DANCING, STRINGS, FLUTE, CYMBALS

Part 5: Anonymous '2 Ways' (1, 95, 112, 125)

*There is some evidence that this Psalm was added as an introductory piece to the entire Psalter. It is, in some ways, more a piece of wisdom literature than a Psalm. Most likely, it is placed in sequential priority b/c of its emphasis on the Torah. The Torah had been divided into 150 weekly readings. The 150 Psalms may have been gathered to accompany these readings (See Sarna, 'On the Book of Psalms, 27-28)

1 Blessed is the man
who does not
walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners
or sit in the seat of mockers.

Blessed (ashre) (words don't have meanings besides in context, ie 'green house')
2 words for 'blessed'
- Baruch- endowed, occasional, inward
- Ashre (44x, Psalms/Wisdom)- earned, continuous, outward
* This Psalm uses Ashre (plural, blessednesses)

The good man is first defined in the negative (what he does not do). There are 3 possible interpretations for the verbs/nouns used in this negation.
1) Strict Parallelism (walk=stand=sit, wicked=sinner=scoffer)
2) Ascending parallelism (getting greater in its badness)
3) Descending parallelism (getting lesser in its badness)

Most likely...
Wicked is worst (rebellious to the core)
Sinner is worse (miss the mark)
Scoffer is bad (ignorant)

Walk is bad
Stand is worse
Sit is worst

In this case, the Psalmist is suggesting that the righteous won't even walk (casually) with the worst (wicked). They will avoid them at all cost. They will avoid congregating with sinners. As for scoffers, they may relate to them, but not in close fellowship.

2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.

The good man is here defined not in the negative (who/what he avoids), but in the positive (who/what he delights in). He delights in the law of the LORD (not mere meditation or intellectual learning, but oral repetition to affect moral change). The absence of these 3 negatives and the presence of this 1 positive leads to the following result (3):

3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.

4 Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.

The contrast here shows that the good man will be a positive influence on his society AND will be able to withstand turmoil b/c of his deep roots. It should be remembered that wisdom literature provides principles, not promises, guidelines, not guarantees, functions, not fate. The wicked are a negative influence on society and cannot withstand tribulation, as below. Both face wind, but only 1 stands (Proverbs 10:25).

5 Therefore the wicked
will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.

Here, we have indication of a group of righteous people (contrasting from earlier). The judgment here referred to is not likely a reference to future judgment, but judgment in the here and now. That present judgment does not always find the wicked created a theological problem, but in this Psalm the doctrine of present judgment was taken for granted.

6 For the LORD watches
over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.

.......................................
“There are two ways, one of life and one of death, and there is a great difference between these two ways” ~ The Didache

Psalm 95 Bow Down or Harden Heart

Psalm 112 Rewards of Righteousness
~ Fruitfulness (2) ~ Reputation (6)
~ Prosperity (3) ~ Peace (7)
~ Revelation (4) ~ Security (8)
~ Good news (5) ~ Honor (9)

Psalm 125 The Promised Land of Israel

Group 1 (The righteous)
Group 2 (The wicked)
Group 3 (The one's who turn back on righteousness)
* This Psalm seems to be very Arminian

Part 4: Asaph (50, 73-83)

Psalm 50
3 Misinterpretations of God's Judgment
1) He will judge us based on our practice of the sacrificial system
2) He will judge our public lives, but not our private lives
3) His delay in judging puts in to question the certainty of future judgment

Psalm 73 & 75-76
Psalm 73 begins with 2 lines of Hebrew Parallelism. Israel is spoken of synonymously with the pure in heart. This is a precursor to the sayings of Jesus & Paul. Verse 1 is spoken in the present tense for the author, but the rest of the Psalm recounts a time of great difficulty for his faith in a 'good' God. He struggled with the fact that in practical observation, it seemed like God loved the wicked! They were wealthy (3). They were healthy (4). They freely mocked God (8). The author, at that time, was ashamed to admit his struggle because of how it might impact those he was leading (15). But the author received revelation on this issue when he entered the presence of God (17). The revelation was about the ultimate final destiny of the wicked. Their present stance is on 'slippery ground' (18). The wicked are, in fact, like a nightmare to God. It's as if He's dreaming a horrible dream, but when He awakes, they will vanish from memory (20). In other words, their time of triumph will be short lived. The author admits that his former doubts and concerns regarding this issue were held out of ignorance (22). He now trusts in future vindication from God and considers righteousness its own reward (28). Psalm 75, also, is a Psalm of God's sovereignty and future judgment. The righteous will be vindicated while the horns (power) of the wicked will be cut off (75:10). Psalm 76 speaks of God's sovereignty over the nations.

Psalm 74 & 79
These 2 Psalms seem to have been written on the occasion of the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. God's revelation had ceased (74:9). It seemed as if God had His hands in His pockets (74:11). The author knows, from the past, that God is capable of resolving the issue of Jerusalem's overthrow, and he begs Him to rise up (22). Psalm 79 speaks of the horrible state of Jerusalem (79:1-4) and asks how long God will be angry (79:5). The Psalmist begs for God's help.

Psalm 77
This author advises his readers to focus on the positives amidst crisis. The crisis of faith is found in verses 1-9. But at verse 10, the author transitions to reflecting on God's past presence and victories. He realizes that God is with us even when He doesn't seem to be (19).

Psalm 78
This long Psalm is a record of Israel's history, re-told for the purpose of keeping Israel from repeating past mistakes. The readers are comforted by being reminded that God knows we are merely flesh.

Psalm 80
Psalm 80 is a prayer for restoration (3, 7, 19). Verses 8-16 contain an extended metaphor comparing Israel to a vine. Jesus, of course, called Himself the vine.

Psalm 81
This was a Psalm for the feast of the tabernacles, a 7 day long festival in Judaism. It speaks of Israel's delivery from Egypt and promises that God will respond to obedience. It recognizes Israel's subsequent rebellion, but promises that simple obedience will restore right relationship.

Psalm 82
This Psalm is used by various groups in doctrinal disputes because of its usage of the word 'gods.' It's a Psalm about God judging wicked judges, but instead of using the term 'judges,' it uses the term 'gods.' This term is used b/c these judges have been made like God, in a sense, because of the authority and responsibility He has placed on them. Unfortunately, these judges had used this position of power to defend the unjust (2). These judges had been no help to the poor and needy (3-4). Because of this, these judges/gods were about to be condemned themselves by the true Judge/God (7).

Psalm 83
Psalm 83 is one of the imprecatory Psalms, which means it's a Psalm which includes a curse on one's enemies. These Psalms are controversial in that it may seem difficult to reconcile them to Jesus' teaching in the New Testament. Three possible explanations emerge:
1) These 'feelings' are natural and honest to express
2) The curses are descriptive of the ultimate fate of the wicked
3) They are appropriate for the Old Covenant, but not the New Covenant
In any case, we know that personal vengence is not for the believer. If such feelings/curses are OK, they must be motivated for an increase in God's glory (16-18)

Part 3: Sons of Korah (42-49, 84-85, 87)

Psalm 42-43
Hope amidst Darkness: Both Psalm 42 & 43 speak of hope amidst a dark situation. In particular, Psalm 42 is about the hope of quenching an extreme thirst. It is introduced with the familiar line, "As the deer pants for the water so my soul pants for you, O God." In the midst of the dry times, skeptics may mock the believer asking "Where is your God?" The Psalmist remembers the times of plenty, longing for the source of his former joy. Ultimately, he keeps faith that the water of life will be restored to him. Psalm 43 is specifically hope for vindication.

Psalm 44
Psalm 44 speaks of God as almost a 'sleeping Giant'
1. God has a record of action in the past (1-8)
2. God may seem asleep in the present (9-16)
3. Seeming inactivity isn’t always deserved (17-22)

Why has this happened? Multiple explanations emerge. First, God's seeming activity could be designed for a greater purpose. Certainly the NT teaches us much about the value of pain and suffering. Second, God's inactivity could be the result, not so much of bad behavior, but of a lack of good behavior. For example, perhaps Israel's 'watchmen' (Isaiah 62:6-7) hadn't been lifting up special prayers to God. Third, perhaps the Psalm shows a 'sleeping giant' that is raised up in Jesus Christ. In this case, the Psalm shows the void filled by Jesus.

Psalm 45
A Wedding Psalm: This Psalm was probably written for the wedding of Solomon (at least one of them!), but it has obvious Messianic references. For instance, this "King" is spoken of as "God" in verse 6 (which also seems to allude to Genesis 49:10) ...and yet He still has a God in verse 7. This section is also quoted in Hebrews 1:8.
1 Introduction
2-9 Praise for the King/Groom (Solomon --> Christ)
10-15 Words for the Bride (Solomon's wife --> Church)
* 16-17 (reverts back to masculine in hebrew)

Psalm 46
Peace amidst Storm: Psalm 46 was Martin Luther's basis for the great hymn "A Mighty Fortress." The word translated as fortress in verses 7 & 11 is the Hebrew word for a high tower. The Psalm speaks of the 'high tower' we can find safety in amidst the storms of earth below. This Psalm is a precursor to Ephesians 1:20-21 & 2:6 which speak of believers as spiritually ascended with Christ, able to overcome the obstacles of this world. Verse 10 is the location of the famous line "Be still and know that I am God."

Psalm 47
Praise the Lord of All: This Psalm is all positive praise of the King of the earth. Various forms of physical worship are mentioned (clapping, shouting, singing, etc).

Psalm 48
Praise the God of Victory: Another song of all positive praise to the Lord.

Psalm 49
The Poverty of Wealth: In this Psalm, the Sons of Korah share some wisdom about human wealth. The following principles are given...
1. Money can’t buy eternal life
2. You can’t take it with you
3. It’s important to have understanding

Psalm 84
Abiding in God, A Song Sung on the Way to the Temple: This Psalm celebrates the presence of God. The author envies even the birds who are able to reside at the temple each day. This Psalm is the basis for the popular worship song "Better is one day"

Psalm 85
Plea for Revival: This Psalm deals with the past, present & future.
1-3 (God's past victories)
4-8 (Their present plea)
9-13 (God's future rescue of His people)
Verse 10 can be said to foreshadow the cross, for it is in the cross that love and faithfulness meet together. It is in the cross that righteousness and peace find their true home.

Psalm 87
Inclusion of the Gentiles: Psalm 87 must have been difficult Psalm for some Jews to sing, for, if they were anything like Jonah, it was much to inclusive for their tastes. The Psalm speaks, once again, of the 'City of God.' But what makes this Psalm so bold is the predicted inclusion of Rahab (Egypt), Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, Cush, etc within the City of God! They will be treated as if they had been born in Zion. This Psalm surely speaks of the inclusion of the gentiles into family of God.

Part 2: Solomon (72, 127), Heman (88), Ethan (89)

Psalm 72 is one of 2 (127) believed to have been written by King Solomon. It seems to have been written to his son as a model of kingship to emulate. We know, of course, from history and from our humanity, that no merely human king fulfills these ideals. Because of this, Psalm 72 is seen as a Messianic Psalm, foreshadowing the perfect rule of Jesus Christ.

Solomon’s vision for his descendant…

He will be just (1a, 2b, 4, 12-14)
He will be righteous (1b, 2a, 3)
He will reign for many generations (5, 15, 17)
His reign will be prosperous (6-7, 15, 16)
His reign will be the whole earth (8, 15, 17)
His reign will be powerful (9-11)
His reign will be to the glory of God (18-19)

Psalm 88 is a surprising Psalm in terms of it's lack of hope. Many Psalms entail strong critiques of God's apparent in-actions, but usually they end with a firm hope that God will come through when all is said and done. Not so here! The entire Psalm seems to be one of critique. The fact that it is found within the 150 'inspired' Psalms speaks to the honesty God desires in our relationship to Him, similar to Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane.

Psalm 88 seems to have been written by Heman, though exactly which Heman wrote the Psalm is unknown. In any case...

He wants God to hear him (1-2)
He felt as good as dead (3-5)
He felt isolated & trapped by God (6-9)
He felt unsure of life after death (10-12)
He felt ignored by God (13-14)
He felt bitter at God’s affliction (15-18)

Psalm 89 seems to have been written by a man named Ethan (probably the Ethan of 1 Chronicles 15:17-19). The Psalm contains a startling transition at verse 38 that speaks to the context of the time of writing. If the Psalm ended at verse 37, we'd imagine that it was written at a time of great exaltation of David or one of his descendants. But verse 38 and onward reveals that this Psalm was actually written at a point when the promises of God to David seemed extremely suspect.

God made great promises to David (1-37)
God seemed to be unfaithful (38-45)
Ethan wonders where God is (46-52)

Despite God's amazing promises that David's line would be established forever, the author interprets his historical context as a reason for doubting God's faithfulness. He wonders where God is and whether the promises to David will ever come true. The first section is positive. The second section is negative. The third section is up in the air. What will God do. The concluding verse, however, reinforces that the author has faith that God will do right in the end.

Psalm 127

Exodus 17:8-18:27

As Israel continues to make its way toward the Mountain of God, they learn some leadership principles via 2 stories. The first story involves an attack by the Amalekites. The second story involves a visit from Jethro (Moses' father in law).

The Amalekite attack (17:8-16)
The Amalekite attack on the Israelites seems to be completely unprovoked. The Israelite response teaches us some important lessons about leading and following.

For Leaders:
1. Seek God's Power (8-11)
2. Accept help (12)
3. Serve the people, not yourself (13)
4. Develop future leaders (14-15)

For Followers:
1. Are you climbing with your leaders? (8-10)
2. Are you providing rest for your leaders (11-12a)
3. Are you helping your leader fight? (12b-13)
4. Are you open to being a leader? (14-15)


Jethro's Advice (18:1-27)
Jethro was the priest of Midian and father-in-law to Moses. After Moses was re-united with his family (Jethro, his wife Zipporah, and his 2 sons), Jethro heard about all the great acts of God in Egypt and praised the Lord. But when Jethro saw all the work that Moses was doing by himself, he offered some advice.

Tips for how to offer good advice
1. Watch. Have a proper grasp of the problem (14a)
2. Ask. Let the person explain why they do it the way they do (14b-6)
3. Describe the problem in clear terms (17-18)
4. Describe the advice in clear terms (19-22a)
5. Describe the potential results (22b-23)
6. Allow the person to make the decision (24-27)

Jethro's advice, of course, was about delegation/empowerment
1. It's natural to work hard, but not necessarily smart (13-16)
2. This leads to burn out and frustration (17-18)
3. Our job is to spread info, not hold info (19-20)
4. Our job is to select able delegates (21-23)