THE BEST STORIES THAT MOVE OUR HEARTS DO SO
BECAUSE THEY TAP INTO THE TRUE STORY,
THE STORY THAT BEGAN BEFORE THE DAWN OF TIME.
SO WE LOVE THESE TALES THAT TELL OF A GOOD KING
WHO MADE ALL THINGS RIGHT,
BUT THEN THERE WAS AN ENEMY…A BATTLE…
AND WE ARE ON THE EDGE OF OUR SEATS…
TAKE THE STORY OF THE GOOD KING ARTHUR
WHO FELL IN LOVE AND TOOK FOR HIMSELF A BRIDE…
KING ARTHUR WAS SO WONDERFUL AND GUINEVERE DID LOVE HIM.
AND HIS KNIGHT, SIR LANCELOT, LOVED HIM.
SO HOW COULD THEY BETRAY HIM SO?
BRINGING SO MUCH PAIN TO ALL
AND THE DOWNFALL OF CAMELOT.
“ONCE, A DISTANT TIME AGO, THERE WAS A LAND CALLED CAMELOT”
AND TRULY, ONCE, THERE WAS A LAND CALLED EDEN
SEE HOW THIS STORY IS A “MEMORY TRACE” OF THE TRUE STORY.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzh6VKpB6qc
SUNDAY (Icebreaker)
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
Monday-Wednesday Bible Study
Part I. WHO IS THIS KING?
4. Read Psalm 2 and find hints as to who this King is, using cross-references in parenthesis.
A. In verses 1-2:
The English word Messiah comes from the Hebrew word for anointed one.
B. Verse 6.
C. Verse 7. (quoted in Acts 13:13 and Hebrews 1:5)
D. Verse 8-9
5. Mike Reeves links The King of Psalm 2 to the Blessed Man of Psalm 1 in several ways. One is through Deuteronomy 17:18-20. Read it and see if you agree,
6. Completely Optional (Because I promised not to overload you) Listen to the first twelve minutes of Reeves and comment if you like:
7. Pray that you would kiss this King, honor this King, long for this King to be King of your heart.
Part Ii. THE KINGS OF THE EARTH RAGE AGAINST THE TRUE KING AND HIS FOLLOWERS
Psalm 2 indeed is about a world gone mad, where, from the beginning, kings have raged against the King God set on His holy hill. And indeed, that is the first part of the truth of Psalm 2. The kings of the nations have always raged against the true King.
HEROD ORDERED THE SLAUGHTER OF THE INNOCENTS
THE RELIGIOUS LEADERS OF THE DAY CONSPIRED AGAINST HIM AND PILATE WASHED HIS HANDS OF HIM
NERO THREW CHRISTIANS TO THE LIONS IN THE 1ST CENTURY
2/3 OF THE WORLD HAS SEVERE RESTRICTIONS AGAINST CHRISTIANS
IN 2013 KOREA’S KIM JONG UN PUBLICLY EXECUTED 80 CHRISTIANS FOR READING THEIR BIBLES
Reports of Dreadful Persecutions are Coming From Syria and Much of the Islam World
Christianity Today reports that persecution has escalated everywhere, and though we are in the minority of the world where Christians are still free to worship, the scoffing has increased, and we too feel the growing storm and wonder what is ahead. Among our own, there are those who are experiencing scoffing right within their own homes, a place God intended to be a sanctuary, a place of rest. This is real persecution as well, and we must include these persecuted Christians in our prayers.
How vital it it to pray the Word so we are taken out of our self-centered cloister to pray for our brothers and sisters in enormous need.
5. Read the following page on praying for persecuted Christians and then put it into action right here through your prayers: Link
6. Read Psalm 2 and then pray Psalm 2:10-12 for the rulers of the world.
7. Pray the last phrase “Blessed are all who take refuge in him” and Psalm 3 for persecuted Christians.
THURSDAY/FRIDAY LISTEN TO THIS FREE KELLER SERMON: LINK
8. Share your notes here.
9. On the basis of what you heard, pray for your own heart.
Saturday:
What is your take-a-way and why?
375 comments
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A: Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King. He came to her as a peasant, a commoner. On common ground, merely interested in pursuing her, making her smile. He did not come declaring his status or abilities. Nor did require that she declare hers. He smiles, because he is happy and because he is drawing her out to be happy. He finds her beautiful.
B Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden. So many…He is describing what he considers to be perfect seasons, eliminating all the undesirable aspects of the changes (slush on the hill, etc.). However, I do not think that Eden is so much our perfect image of what nature should look like (indeed, I have an ongoing “argument” with a Nebraskan friend who loves plains more than mountains, and I the opposite), but rather our hearts are just so much more sensitive to His beauty, in what ever form it takes even if it is slush.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story? He came as a commoner. He pursued her. And then I see something that convicts me. When she realizes who he is, she mentally (emotionally?) backs away. I see in my children no “fear” of God, but in Guinever’s face she is suddenly concerned that she has “sinned” that she has to forfeit this feeling and experience that she just had because this is THE KING! She looses her confidence in His affection for her (was going to kiss him and now stands off, afraid). In the true story some have the same reaction of backing away and never recover, keeping a distance, feeling that is equivalent to reverence, God should be kept in the church to respect Him. But He desires marriage and intimacy and to be in our lives constantly.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot? I am embarrassed to admit I don’t know the story. I find it interesting though that my heart is moved more by the pain than the joy presented in this introduction.
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today. Perfect application for going to church! =) Kiss the Son, go praise Him, learn more of Him, fellowship and meditation. I do see further application in the destruction portion of the verse, but have run out of time to ponder.
Jill, Yes you have started us off so well-so much wonderful pondering here- I thought it was sweet to see that you and your friend are sensitive to His beauty regardless of whether it is slush or not. :)) And also loved your ponderings in C.
This really spoke to me, I think we dont feel worthy enough or feel inadequate at times before God. Especially if we feel we are trying to measure up as moms, wives, women etc… I know we serve a God that loves us unconditionally. I loved your take on this.
I have to agree, so many people think God is just for church, He is so much more and you said it perfectly. He desires intimacy in our lives and one on one with Him.
JILL! HOW WELL YOU HAVE BEGUN US!
Oh, my, this looks so good. I love it when you bring in stories with application to Scripture, Dee.
Diane, Me too! My most favorite thing is to hear Dee speak live for she uses so many good videos, pictures and songs to augment and I always sense Him so..So I was thinking as I read through this blog this morning that we get some of that experience on this blog too-that there is no other blog bible study out there as powerful and deep as this one. So grateful!
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
He is humble and gentle. He does not use His authority to try to control her—He let His love attract her to Himself. He speaks of beauty. No matter how she responds, He continues to pursue.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
Perfection is the law. There is no other way—it is as it was created to be. Not too hot or cold or rainy.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
The creation is subject to the King—everything submits to His authority. The Laws are all for my good and not harm.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
Oh, do I really have to admit I’ve never seen it? I know, it’s going on the list 😉
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
My kiss to the King—my act of submission, reverence, awe—LOVE. OH it strikes me this morning–to let it sink in that I have the privilege of kissing the King—oh my. Thank You Lord that You allow my kiss—I feel so unworthy. But clothed in Your robe, I am here. Thank You that You want my kiss.
EACH OF YOU IS SUCH A BLESSING
AND OFF TO CHURCH WE GO!
1. A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King.
King Arthur never lets on that he is the king…he treats Guinevere as someone/thing very precious…he gently shows his interest, but does not push himself upon her; he draws her in.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
Camelot reflects the beauty of Eden in that it is a pleasantly unique place so much so that it gives a person pause. All is perfect in Camelot (gathered from King Arthur’s numerous points regarding climate and seasons); I can only imagine the beauty of Eden, the loveliest of places flourishing with beauty, peace, fellowship with God, etc. King Arthur repeats that there is no more congenial spot for “happy ever aftering” than Camelot; there was no more perfect place on this earth than Eden.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
Jill’s answer is right on…”He came as a commoner. He pursued her. … When she realizes who he is, she backs away. … she is suddenly concerned that she has “sinned” that she has to forfeit this feeling and experience that she just had because this is THE KING! She looses her confidence in His affection for her. In the true story some have the same reaction of backing away and never recover, keeping a distance, feeling that is equivalent to reverence, God should be kept in the church to respect Him.”
Another parallel I see is the sin of Guinevere and Lancelot’s infidelity being similar to human sin. King Arthur facilitated a perfect place (similar to God creating and facilitating our world); sadness, destruction, etc. was and is brought in by sinful human decisions.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
I have never seen “Camelot.” I did see “First Knight” many years ago; I believe “First Knight” was a similar, updated version. From my memory, King Arthur was deeply saddened; I don’t recall King Arthur taking any retaliatory action against the two.
what wonderful insights you have shared. I, too, am unfamiliar with the story. After watching the clip 4 times and reading a synopsis on Wikipedia I feel i have a slight understanding of it. I have a foggy brain as we had an difficult and painful disagreement with our daughter yesterday (single parent of 3) who leans on us for support. I slept little last night. i would covet your prayers. I spent time meditating on the tree and roots from Psalm 1 last night…remembering this difficult time will pass. God is true & faithful but how I dread another period of difficulty.
Family disagreements drain one to the core! May the Lord uphold you, Sarahsal
Oh, so sorry to hear this. Praying for you, Sarahsal, that He will give you rest, strength, and peace.
Sarahsal, I’m so sorry about your disagreement with your daughter. I remember praying for her before, a long time ago for you. I will keep her in my prayers now.
I also have never seen the real story of Camelot or read about it. (and I’m 64!) That little clip sure got me interested and I wanted to see all of it! So I’ll have to get it and watch it. Jill, I also loved your discription in answer C. about it! It only makes me more curious!
Elizabeth I also love the idea that I would be privileged to be able to kiss the King!
Read Psalm 2 and then pray Psalm 2:10-12 for the rulers of the world……..I did this and Oh the tears flowed as I can’t imagine how blessed we are to be able to read our bibles and Praise God as we do, attending church and bible studies. I take it all for granted until I read several of the countries are denied that and even killed because they read the bible. Oh Father I Praise you so much that we have this privilege and forgive me as I get caught up in my own little world and forget how blessed we truly are! Thank you Jesus!
Sorry, I read the whole thing Dee wrote and got ahead of myself with my comment.
Sarahsal,
Thank you for telling us about using Wikipedia to gain more understanding about the story. I’m not familiar with it either.
Also, I am sorry to hear about your upsetting and distressful situation with your daughter.
Praying, Sarahsal, for you and for your daughter. Watching children and grandchildren (or parents or siblings) struggle and/or make unwise decisions does “drain one to the core”, as Dee says.
Sarahsal, I’m praying for you this morning that the time of difficulty will be short, but fruitful.
Sarahsal, praying for you and your daughter…Dee is right. It can be so emotionally, and even physically, draining.
C. Verse 7. (quoted in Acts 13:13 and Hebrews 5:5)
Dee, did you mean Acts 13:33?
Sarahsal–so sorry, praying too
I know this doesn’t apply to this week so much–but last night I was still pondering last week’s lesson–and I had this thought I wanted to share–if I can make sense! I was thinking about how when Lazarus dies, Jesus weeps–even though He knows he will be raised from the dead. Jesus knows the death is temporary–yet He does not give Mary & Martha trite answers or a “pat pat” on the back–He doesn’t say ‘oh, he’s in a better place now’ or give plastic consolation. Their pain is real. And even knowing how it will end, He allows Himself to enter into their pain, and He, too weeps. I love Christ’s model of facing the truth, being honest about pain, mourning with those who mourn. Our High King Who humbles Himself to be in our pain with us.
Thanks for what you shared. I will be facilitating GriefShare starting Tuesday. What a good reminder.
I really like that, Elizabeth — pat answers never help.
Well, I’m feeling quite old — as all of you are unfamiliar with Camelot! My parents took me to see Julie Andrews and Richard Burton on Broadway and I was mesmerized. There really is a powerful parallel and the music is sublime. Listen to “I Loved You Once In Silence” on you-tube — isn’t that how we feel when we can’t have our idol — and then, after we have given in? And yes, Nanci — First Knight was Camelot without the music. It’s the new thing to do musicals without the music — like King and I and even Music Man. I don’t understand it! 🙂 they’ll probalby do Les Mis without the music one day!
Dee I can remember seeing it a few times when I was younger, which I guess makes me very old as well. I enjoyed this movie when I was younger, but never considered putting it in the context of God’s story. I can see so much of the underlying message now. Thank you for that.
I’ll never see you as”old” Dee–you are too full of life and learning and growing! I hesitated to admit I’d never seen it because it is a favorite of my mom & sisters and I’ve heard all the songs…I even like musicals, just never quite got to it 😉 And I did see First Knight, but I actually love the music–I’m going to see if it’s rentable!
The whole movie is on the internet on You-tube — parts are boring, but parts are just wonderful…
Dee, bad news – they did Les Miserables as a non-musical in 1998. =/ I, too like musicals!
Elizabeth – I found it on Amazon to rent. Hubs and I are going to watch it tonight or tomorrow.
Old is state of mind, not a definition of numbers. =)
Really truly? I was being sarcastic! Oh my.
Haha – but even a music teacher like me loves the non-musical Liam Neeson version of Les Mis from 1998…excellent acting (perhaps even better than the recent one)!
I’m older than you but grew up in a small town with little exposure to theater as a young person. 🙂
Thanks for the clarification, Dee. I will definitely get Camelot to watch…I absolutely loved Les Mis (wasn’t sure I would but oh did I); with how you have described Camelot, I think it very likely will be a similar reaction.
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
He doesn’t come to her as the King, he comes across her, by herself. I am going to date myself, but it has been many, many years since I watched this movie (and this version) so I am going by memory (please feel free to correct me if I am wrong). She was betrothed to the King, whom she had never met and knew nothing about him other than he was the King. On the way she was separated from the group and the King, who was out and about on his own and dressed so that he could walk among his people unseen, came across her. He knew who she was, but she did not know who he was. This is where this clip starts. He wooed her to him, not his position as King, but to him. He showed her the real person, not the position.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
The perfection, it can only rain after sundown, it only snows after December and then only so much. Everything in nature and the weather is “by decree”. It made me think of Job, God asks Job if he knew how the sun rises and sets, who orders the rain, pulls the lightning bolts out of the barn (my paraphrase). In this clip, King Arthur is describing that Camelot is perfection..and in the real world the only place that was perfect was Eden.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
He comes to her without telling her who he is and woos her to him, not to the King. He is describing the beauty of the place. When the soldiers are coming they have a preconceived idea of who he is, from the distance he is a peasant, nothing important. They grab him and they are still not paying attention. It is only when someone gets close enough to see his face do they realize it’s the King and they have to say it and draw peoples attention to the fact it is actually the King not a peasant. Many people only see Jesus as a “moral person” who lived along time ago, they don’t get close enough to see His face and recognize that He is in fact the King.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
It has been a long time, I think I may have to go back and watch it again. My recollection is that the infidelity devastated him and changed everything. That got me thinking about the question and the relation to Eden…and perhaps this is not correct, but I was wondering about Lucifer. He was once an angel, close to God but it was Lucifer’s betrayal of God that changed everything. There was an Eden, but again, the betrayal changed everything. It got me thinking about how much God’s heart was devastated by those betrayals. In Camelot, it wasn’t the general population who betrayed King Arthur, it was those closest to him, who saw him, spent time with him, got to see the real person, those were the ones whose betrayal deeply affected him.
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
To keep my refuge in Him, to be constantly looking at His face, seeing Him, spending time with Him, submitting to Him. The awesome beauty of just being in His presence…and even when He appears to be silent (away) that He still loves me and I still know and remember that His love, His protection is for me…as long as I stay submitted to Him, my refuge will always be Him.
Gen
I love this Mary-Canada “he is and woos her to him, not to the King”–reminds me to seek Him for who He is, His character, His love– not for what He can do for me or give me
Mary, thanks for the re-cap…it has been quite a while since I watched “First Knight” and didn’t recall some of those details.
Your pondering of Lucifer in item 2 is really quite interesting. When I finished reading “In Camelot, it wasn’t the general population who betrayed King Arthur, it was those closest to him, who saw him, spent time with him, got to see the real person, those were the ones whose betrayal deeply affected him.”…I thought, how very similar to Lucifer. Lucifer was one of the “arch angels”…one of the angels that would be closest to God, correct?
Thinking about the clip again–it’s interesting to me that in his description of Camelot–he addresses her fears–at least, that’s how I saw that. No need to fear the heat or the rains–the climate is perfect…the law is perfect. In Camelot, none of her fears exist I thought about how always for me, at the root of my turning to idols–is fear. Christ answers all of my fears. In Him none of my fears exist.
The title of the blog this week — OH MY! Felt as if I’d been punched in the chest. I am betraying my King when I choose anything or anyone over Him.
Renee,
I can identify with how you felt when you read the title of the blog this week. It gripped me— hit me is more like it. It’s hard to put into words but when you said it felt like you’d been punched in the chest I could relate.
I think the realization hit me, when I choose anything or anyone over Him, I betray Him. The lover of my soul.
Hmmm… I haven’t seen Camelot either, but now I will!
Dee, I LOVE that clip. How the King was humble, was fun, became a peasant to woo someone to himself. In an instant, he was falsely accused, and as soon as people realized who he was, the power he had, they bowed. HIS IDENTITY CHANGED EVERYTHING. So interesting to ponder this in light of the incarnation of the King of Kings.
And to think I almost skipped the clip because I hadn’t seen Camelot!
Mary,
The video was powerful!
Mary, I didn’t know the story but you were able to give some context that helped me with the video.
I really liked the last line of your comment where you say. Many people only see Jesus as a “moral person” who lived along time ago, they don’t get close enough to see His face and recognize that He is in fact the King.
Oh how the Father longs for us to see His Son, the King— face to face. I think sometimes the enemy lies to us knowing if we ever see Him face to face– we will love him, giving our allegiance to him alone– not going after other lovers or idols like Israel did so many times.
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
I like the way he looks at her and draws close to her-in a winsome way full of charm and innocence He draws her to Him. He has a way with her that makes it hard for her to resist him. He oozes hope, beauty and Love.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
The climate was perfect all throughout the year as it decreed-there is no other way. It was a perfect spot for ‘happy ever after’-a perfect, beautiful place to live.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
Yes-the happy ever after when Jesus restores Eden and we live with Him-no sin and everything is renewed and perfect.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
Me too-I haven’t seen this yet..but it will be one I rent from Netflix now. 🙂
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
Lord Jesus kissing you is adoring you, revering you-Loving you-holding you higher and greater than anything and anyone-desiring you more than anything for you are my satisfaction..and it blows me away that you gave your life for me-You are Holy, Just, and fierce yet you desire to lavish me with your affection and bring me into delighting in you..wow, I get to delight in You because of You.
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King.
I had to look up the definition of winsomeness. I love words and love the way “winsomeness” rolls off my tongue. 🙂
Along with other meanings of winsomeness it also can mean “charming; inspiring trust; approval and acceptance; especially if in an innocent manner”.
As I watched the video, King Arthur did inspire trust, approval, and acceptance as he was wooing Guinevere. The acceptance that Guinevere felt popped
out at me as I watech the video. It looked like she was thinking at times, “is this for real, can this be true, am I dreaming, can I really trust this man?”
I’ve been in church— it seems— like all my life. Those early years I don’t remember getting a true picture of God the Father or his Son of someone I could ever get close to. I received a skewed, distorted view of the King. One thing I remember is I didn’t see much “winsomeness” in some Christians during those early years.
The thing I longed for even as a child was for approval and acceptance. For me— not for my performance. I was such a compliant child, doing what ever I needed to do for people’s approval and acceptance. It seemed this god I imagined in my mind was the same way. If I performed enough, then and only then, he would approve and accept me. I had no idea— what a distorted and flawed view I had of God the Father and His Son, back then. But God is faithful.
So I’ve been on a journey— since 1990, even though I have been a Christian since 1970. I have a deep desire to see and know the true King as He really is.
One Scripture the Holy spirit uses in my life is, Matt. 11:27 “. . .no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son
and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”
It seems to me the Holy Spirit never gives up, because He has first hand knowledge of the True Father and His Son; He wants us to know them the same way as He does. Just one more way of His perseverance: the Holy Spirit used this video to show us the “winsomeness” of King Arthur which in turn points us to the True King and His character.
Yes Cindy…love this …especially the last pharagraph about the Holy Spirit!
“Those early years I don’t remember getting a true picture of God the Father or his Son of someone I could ever get close to. I received a skewed, distorted view of the King. … The thing I longed for even as a child was for approval and acceptance. … I was such a compliant child, doing what ever I needed to do for people’s approval and acceptance.”
Cindy, as I read the above, I thought, “oh my goodness, Cindy could be talking about me” As I continued reading you hit me again…”the Holy Spirit never gives up, because He has first hand knowledge of the True Father and His Son; He wants us to know them the same way as He does.”…I am so thankful to the Lord for His work in my heart. I am so thankful that He is adjusting my false imagines from childhood and life.
Nanci,
That’s so precious. Well that’s one of the things the Holy Spirit does best.
Heading to bed after a “struggling” day. How this group has helped me..so thankful to be back.
Oh Sarahsal…I hope you had a restful sleep. I am sorry for your struggles…take good care, friend.
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
When everyone kneels. He accepts that they acknowledge His royalty. He is not shocked yet he comes and helps each person get up. He wants to reassure her of his acceptance of everyone. That even though he is royalty (The King of Kings) he is capable of loving people and being with people. Jesus accepted worship and did not chase them away but he also demonstrated His love for all people by becoming and man and meeting us at our level and dying on the cross for us. That is true love. Jesus has to be our first love. Then everything and everyone can flow from that.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
His description of Camelot and the seasons and what u can expect from that. He even has an answer when she teases him and says “do all the leaves form little piles and he responds by smiling and saying O no my lady they all blow away. Nothing can destroy the picture of perfect Camelot. None of us really know what Heaven will be like but Apostle Paul said eye has not seen and ear not heard what Christ has in store for them that love Him. All I can say is Hallejah.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
Just the innocence, no hidden agenda, just him and her. He really wants to meet and have her learn of him and him of her with no hidden agenda.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
I like Mary’s response. That Satan, Lucifer, the most beautiful of angels deceived 1/3 of the angels and lied about Father God in Heaven. He led the angels in a revolt. Hell was created for the angels that were deceived by Satan.
Satan deceived Eve by saying did” God really say that”. Then Adam ate of the fruit and his eyes were open and then when God showed up to speak with them, fear entered in and they hid and Adam started the blame game. The woman that u created. Before that she was bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh.
Only God can truly love and I rest in that love.
God is incapable of lying. His ways are not our ways and His thoughts not our thoughts. Thank God! Even Jesus was betrayed by one of His own. Yet that very night, on the night of his betrayal He showed us how to respond. He became a humble servant. Tying a towel around His waist and washing the disciples feet, every disciples feet (even the one who betrayed Him). Jesus is not shocked by our betrayals (sins) but I do believe now it saddens Him b/c He is a Holy God and everyone Has to give an account. Betrayal tore the Kingdom asunder but God had a plan. Jesus. Hallejah!
In Camelot I am not so sure about all the plotlines but I know betrayal devastated King Arthur and he died in the end. I keep wondering, “why or why” did Lancelot and Guinevere just not sin? Just once, put their own agenda aside and think of the people they were hurting and in this case it was King Arthur.
In these last days that we live in, when everything is so uncertain, God is certain. I put my trust in that. I know that I do not want to stray at all from Christ’s side and I do not want to be deceived. Jesus spoke on this in Luke and Matthew. I am reading a new book by John Hagee. All of u who are Americans and on this blog are so blessed with great men/women of faith and I have been so blessed by all of u here, so thank u from Canada. This just makes me want to pray more and trust God more and believe God for great things.
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
Don’t abuse God’s grace. Don’t assume. Come to God b/c like the verse states “Blessed are all who take refuge in him”. I am taking refuge in him and trusting him at his word. Heaven and earth will fall way but God states ” my word will stand forever”.
I wrote this today. Based on James 1 vs 2-4
Consider it pure joy (not a little joy but the whole bottle of joy pouring out, running down your life, my life, filling up the seams of unforgiveness with the Balm of Gilead.)
The word joy caught my eye. Do I consider all things pure joy? Not always. I struggle with the root of bitterness (unforgiveness) Even when I started watching the video clip I was keeping myself at a distance and judging. It takes me forever to come forward (or at least it seems to me) and just believe in God’s love and redemptive power and that He is sovereign and sees all things and knows all things. That I can trust and rest in Christ Jesus and His words. That I am lovely and that I can be loved and that I do not need to clean myself up. I just come and run to Jesus. Listen to His words and trust and believe.
When I read this blog and I do you ladies all bless me and give me hope. Your love of Christ shines forth and gives me hope.
So when I consider to count all things pure joy it means to me that God is
Saturating your life/my life in serenity
Saturating your life and my life in Peace and wisdom
That when I consider all things pure joy I am Soaking in God’s presence
Rejoicing in His pleasure to your obedience to His word.
Delighting and dancing with joy
Whispered prayers of exultation
If I choose to boast
I shall boast to the “song of the Lamb who is in Heaven” His redemptive song reverberates all over in my life!
My words will speak/shout of God’s redeeming grace for lately I have needed His grace more than ever!
My heart cry is “may my actions and my words always be pleasing in your sight.
O’ My God and My King!
Blessings to all of u
In Christ
Mellany
Missed you Mellany!
You each saw so much — that was wonderful!
4. Read Psalm 2 and find hints as to who this King is, using cross-references in parenthesis.
A. In verses 1-2:
He is the Messiah-the anointed one (John 1:41 and Acts 4:25-26-cross references for Anointed and One ) Amazing how the Holy Spirit spoke through the writer of this Psalm pointing to Jesus.
B. Verse 6.
Psalm 10:16, 24:10- Jesus is King forever and ever, He is the Lord Almighty, King of Glory.
C. Verse 7. (quoted in Acts 13:13 and Hebrews 5:5)
Cross reference- Acts 13:33-He is the risen King.
D. Verse 8-9
Cross reference Revelation 2:26,27. He will rule the nations with an iron scepter and will break sin like the shattered pieces of pottery.
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
I only know a little about the story of King Arthur, so I didn’t know until the ending of the clip that the man was the king! I was fooled along with Guinevere…but what I see in this is how the king became an ordinary person – you never get the impression that he was putting on an act or pretending; he really seemed to be a common man. So in Jesus when He became a man, it’s not like he covered up His king-lines or pretended to be like us – He really, as a man, became like us (just without the sin). That is winsomeness to me – a simplicity of heart, a real-ness, a transparency, a lightheartedness, a smile, a mirth. The way in which he woos her melts my heart. He doesn’t use the fact that he is the king to impress her or ‘wow’ her.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
He tells her that Camelot is unique…perfect climate…a perfect place to be happy-ever-after…and how it was all decreed to be so long ago.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
That King Arthur was out walking around dressed as a peasant because he wanted to be among his people. If he had gone out in all his kingly garb, the people would have kept their respectful distance and bowed-he didn’t want that…he wanted them to be their real selves and talk to him and he to them. His pursuit of her…God pursues and woos us. Also, Arthur didn’t react angrily when he was accosted as a peasant-he didn’t say ‘take your hands off me’ and even when he was identified as the king, he was still humble.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
I don’t know the story that well, but…after watching the clip, it makes me think how could she cheat on him?! I think Arthur’s heart must have been utterly broken and Camelot was no longer a ‘happy-ever-after’ place.
4. Read Psalm 2 and find hints as to who this King is, using cross-references in parenthesis.
A. In verses 1-2. In John 1:41 Andrew quotes this “Messiah” (anointed one) to tell his brother about Christ. In Acts 4:24-26, Peter and John and all the disciples praise God for His creation and the prophecies He sent through David and quote Psalm 2.
B. Verse 6. My Bible didn’t have any cross references for this verse. “I have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill.” I see ultimate/eternal king here, heavenly King but my groggy mind can’t quite put the pieces together for Zion.
C. Verse 7. Acts 13:32 says “What God promised our fathers…” He is a promise keeper. Hebrews 5:5 – Christ was appointed, called by God, He did not “take upon himself the glory.” Hebrews 1:5 – He is at the right hand of God, higher than all the angels.
D. Verse 8-9. Rev 2:26-27 He overcomes and does His will to the end. “rule them with an iron sceptor and dash them to pieces like pottery” This at first reading seems to be a battle thing (battles cloud my vision of the psalms) but this morning I am reminded of how I was dashed to pieces like pottery….the Lord shook my life to wake me up and the result was a broken heart, mind and spirit that He then rebuilt and infused with HIM. So while He will/does rule it is still in the best interest of those He loves.
5. Mike Reeves links The King of Psalm 2 to the Blessed Man of Psalm 1 in several ways. One is through Deuteronomy 17:18-20. Read it and see if you agree. Wow. Interesting! I am reminded of Mike Reeves comments stating that the law exemplified what Christianity SHOULD look like…if we were Christ we would never serve idols, never murder, never lie, etc. However, Christ was the only one who could really do that. The law is lifeless Christ (oh I am forgetting the phrase he used and it was so good!) powers us to live….That was probably clear as mud. Maybe someone who listened to the Song of Songs lectures can remember better for me. But I see, again, a command to the king to exemplify what Christ would ultimately be and it would be so much more obvious that Christ was successful when so many tried and failed (?). A king who kept the law (God’s will) with him day and night, never deterring either left or right. It was also a command for humility which we saw so perfectly in Christ – powerful yet a servant. Wow. I think I do agree.
4. The Messiah in Psalm 2:
Psalm 2:
A. Verses 1-2
vs 1 is quoted in Acts 4: 25-26. The rulers and elders had seen the power of the Gospel. They wanted to keep the Gospel from spreading and devised plans to contain the Gospel. THey ordered them not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus.
v2. Annointed in Acts 10: 38 Refers to when John baptized Jesus: “how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power.”
B. Verse 6
2 Samuel 5:7 “David took the stronghold of Zion, that is, the city of David.”
Interesting in vs prior to that in 2 Samuel: David was 30 when he began to reign & he reigned over all Israel and Judah for 33 years. Is there a connection with Jesus age at beginning of ministry and his reign following resurrection?? Or a “coincidence?” – haven’t heard it mentioned before.
Good description of meaning of Zion here http://www.gotquestions.org/Zion.html
C. Verse 7 (ref is Acts 13:33?). I didn’t know that the word “begotten” was used in conjunction with Jesus’ resurrection.
D. Verses 8-9 — in Daniel 7:14
And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.
We see this theme again in Revelation – with every tribe, tongue and nation worshipping Him.
Amazing, now I do see the “Gospel in a nutshell,” the whole NT in the first few Psalms. SO encouraging to know that God is in control, from the beginning to end of time, and outside of time. Seeing all of this in a few verses puts my life challenges in perspective.
Diane, Last week I wrote something about saving as rtf or txt file. I saved this post in Word as rtf and had to edit out a bunch of “junk” at the beginning. I did leave some html code within the post, and it appears that computer read that (though not quite as it was formatted in word doc) Will try another post later saving in txt file.
Renee,
I tried doing what you suggested and I just couldn’t get it to work for me, I don’t know what I’m doing wrong. For now I’m using NoteTab Light.
I tried using the Notepad text editor that comes with Microsoft 7. I would type my post in Notepad first, then copy and paste, but I’ve swished to NoteTab Light. It’s FREE and it works much better for me. For some reason I like NoteTab over Notepad much better because it has some features that Notepad doesn’t.
I’ll be watching for your reply 🙂
Right now, I’m on a Mac, but I might have to try something similar. Saving as rtf did not work for me. I may not be on here much tomorrow, but will try txt file in a couple days (or something similar to Notepad).
Sorry, Cindy! I got mixed up about who was asking about copying from Word to here, and I didn’t look it up!You may not be doing anything wrong. Saving as rtf or txt has worked for adding stuff to online class, but rtf doesn’t seem to be working the same here. Use whatever works. I’m not a techie, but I am a tinkerer 🙂
I ordered the book by White that the movie is based on — couldn’t see myself watching a 3 hour movie anytime soon. Instead, I watched a 30 min one in Amazon by Voice of the Martyrs! I read someplace that the book is 600 pages– may not be reading that anytime soon either.Has anyone watched the Disney version. I think I read in a (poor) review of the book that there is a Disney version (of the movie? or book?)
My ladies small group is starting the study on Idol Lies this Wednesday at my suggestion. It impacted me so much and I am looking forward to studying it again.
🙂
Dawn MS, I read this last night-HOW EXCITING!!! :))))) Do keep us posted! My pastor told me the other night his wife is reading it now and is enjoying it. I would love to hear what she thinks for I am praying our church would do it too.
5 & 6. Mike Reeves links The King of Psalm 2 to the Blessed Man of Psalm 1 in several ways. One is through Deuteronomy 17:18-20. Read it and see if you agree,
What Reeves said makes sense. One thing I had noticed before is sort of a discrepancy between Ps 1 and Ps 2. Psalm 1 seemed more focused on individuals and Psalm 2 focused on kings and nations. Reeves’ interpretation connects Psalm 1 and Psalm 2 better. When we see Jesus as the one who is blessed (in Ps 1) and the ONLY king who fits the criteria in Ps 2, the two chapters seem more closely connected.I did like that he clarified that Ps 1 doesn’t just mean “Blessed are the Bible Readers” and appreciate the “Blessed” bookends of Ps 1 and 2.
BUT (and not sure if Reeves would disagree) that some passages might be interpreted — appropriately — in more than one way: e.g., immediate application, as well as prophecy for the future.
7. Plus, I appreciate how this interpretation leads to the passage about kissing the King. I was feeling resistant because I was envisioning when subjects bowed to the king out of duty and obligation (or fear of death) rather than out of love based on the King’s initiation of wooing. NOW, I am praying without reservation: Lord, may my kisses be constant, my heart bowed before you in love and submission, and may my life honor you moment by moment, daily, forever as you “shall reign forever and ever, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and He shall reign forever and ever.”This is having my soul happy in the Lord.
Renee,
He is making you so beautiful both inside and out and I am thrilled seeing how you are growing by leaps and bounds in all your posts-how you are letting him bend and mold your heart-I see it in just reading your response to Him in this post: “NOW, I am praying without reservation: Lord, may my kisses be constant, my heart bowed before you in love and submission, and may my life honor you moment by moment, daily, forever as you “shall reign forever and ever, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and He shall reign forever and ever.”This is having my soul happy in the Lord.”
Good thoughts on the kiss — someone commented to me that our God kisses — he is flesh — not a statue
I have a problem: the site I use to teach online also starts with “d.” My fingers automatically go to this site. ??!??
Renee, :~)
Part I. WHO IS THIS KING?
4. Read Psalm 2 and find hints as to who this King is, using cross-references in Parenthesis.
A. In verses 1-2:
The English word Messiah comes from the Grekk word for anointed one.
B. Verse 6. (Ps. 110:1-2; Ps. 89:27; Ps. 48:1-2; Dan. 7:13-14) Points to Christ
(Acts 2:34-36) Points to Christ
C. Verse 7.(Ps. 89:27; Micah 5:2; Matt. 2:6; Matt. 3:17; Matt. 16:16; Matt. 17:5; John 1:14;
(Luke 23:2; John 3:16; Acts 13:33; Romans 1:4; Heb. 1:5-6; Heb. 3:6)
D. 8-9(Ps. 22:27; 72:8; Ps. 72:11; Ps. 89:9; Is. 49:6; Heb. 1:2; Rev. 2:26)
As we adore and worship Him may our eyes be opened to see more of this anointed one in the Scriptures that point to HIM.
I’m seeing Jesus in a fresh way from praying the Psalms. He’s always been there but I just didn’t notice Him before, until the precious Holy Spirit started opening my eyes to see Him.
Amen, Cindy!
Cindy, So love how he is coming to you in the Psalms-how you are experiencing his quickening. I am right there with you-I too am seeing Him in a fresh way.
oh friends, -I want to share a “King’s kiss” I just received! It doesn’t sound “big”–but some of you will know in my world, with this one, it is huge. One of my children has been really struggling in school with my VERY favorite subject, math (just one more way that we seem like polar opposites at times)! On top of that, the school is leaning a whole new way to do math–so I had to learn the “new” way to be of help. I really did not want to give more when I so often feel depleted in this relationship. But I had just been reminded in my devotional, of the Gospel. I have everything I need already. I have the patience to help even the one I most often struggle with. So I stepped in the right direction–thinking I would take one step…but then He stepped in and used it–and can I just say–having this child “get it”, finally, after 3 hours of work–the hug I received, the gratitude, the smile on her face, –JOY. Thank You Lord.
Oh, Elizabeth. This IS HUGE! Praises going up! Rejoicing with you!
Diane–thank you dear friend. I almost felt silly after I posted, I know it seems small–but it’s been a LONG drought since I’ve I’ve had a breakthrough in this area–and to see how He took my “one step” and then picked me up and ran the rest of the way for me–oh, encourages my heart. Sometimes that “one step” seems so hard–like my feet are in cement, really. But He is so gracious to take my tiny inch and use it. I ned to remember that 🙂
Elizabeth – rejoicing with you! What joyful news. =)
Praise God, Elizabeth!
Elizabeth, thank you for sharing your “King’s kiss!” I am so delighted that you experienced a break-through with your daughter. Hallelujah!!
I can hear your joy! How wonderful.
Elizabeth, How wonderful-what a sweet kiss! We are rejoicing with you!
YES! THANK YOU LORD!
I remember struggling to figure out subtraction — and feeling so dumb when the others were getting it. I just put down numbers. I empathize and am so glad you stayed with her. We who are left brained challenged need PATIENCE.
Thanks for sharing this “kiss” with us, Elizabeth…wow, 3 hours of math-and then to see her joy when she finally got it. You went in feeling depleted and came out full!
“the hug I received, the gratitude, the smile on her face, –JOY.”
So happy for you, Elizabeth!
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
Believe it or not, I have NEVER seen Camelot! I don’t remember the story (sheltered, aren’t I?) although I did somehow know that King Arthur was in love with Gwenivere(!). He is definitely charming and I love the line about the leaves blowing away at night, of course! Fog lifting by 8am…he controls the laws in Camelot and is quite impressed by himself in doing so. It makes everyone happy to be taken care of like that and he seems to be happy making others happy. Jesus must feel that way too? He wants to please us with His gifts everyday….just today; a beautiful sunrise and a “balmy” temperature (31 degrees!) – SUNNY ALL DAY LONG!. Also, a link from long ago that worked THE FIRST TIME to help me teach my class today (on a computer that is a loaner because mine is out for repair!), all is SO well when we “count our blessings.”
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
Characteristics of Eden:
Trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food (dual purpose), A river that had 4 headwaters. Gold, aromatic resin, and onyx were available. My study bible says Eden = paradise; bliss, delight. Tree of Life giving life. Tree of Knowledge giving knowledge od good and evil (moral and ethical discernment).
God wanted life for Adam and Eve – they could eat from ANY tree (including life) EXCEPT the Tree of Knowledge.
Camelot – unique, best climate BY DECREE. Perfect for the year. Congenial spot for “happily ever after.” All the “earthy” things seem to have been taken care of in Camelot, just like in Eden.
Laura dancer! This whole post made me smile! It’s like I can sense your joy–the real kind of “fundamental happiness” despite all your difficult trials–and your joy is so encouraging. You are in a good place, I see Him in your words.
I love these nuggets: “he seems to be happy making others happy. Jesus must feel that way too?” and “all is SO well when we “count our blessings.” and “God wanted life for Adam and Eve”
I just can’t quite see 31 degrees as “balmy”… I prefer anything upwards of 80 😉
I’m thinking we should all create a “blog party viewing” of Camelot–we could all watch simultaneously!
AMEN TO ELIZABETH’S COMMENT, LAURA
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
He was pouring on the charm! You could tell that he was delighted with Guinevere. I thought she was pretending to play hard-to-get, as she darted this way and that as if trying to get away from him (almost). He had dressed like a peasant, and he did nothing to give away his identity as the king — no display of power or status. He tried his best to make her smile and laugh.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
According to the king, Camelot was a perfect place . It had a wonderful climate, and at the king’s command the weather behaved in a desirable way (no slush on the hill, fog always lifted by 8 a.m., etc)
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
That he came as a “regular” person, and didn’t flaunt his true identity or put on any power-plays.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
Well, I didn’t see the play on Broadway, but I did see the movie when it came out. I also remember references to the time of JFK’s presidency being like Camelot (young honored veteran from wealthy family with beautiful wife and precocious children, etc.) However, my memory was a little foggy on the details, and I could not have told the story solely by memory. I googled the movie title and read the plot synopsis which helped to refresh my memory about the ending.
King Arthur knew about the infidelity, but he was hoping it would blow over, and he did not confront them about it, even though he was hurt by it. An adversary (Arthur’s illegitimate son Mordred) was trying to get to the throne and wanted to cause trouble. He arranged for Arthur to not be able to get home one night. Just as Mordred had hoped, Lancelot went to see Guinevere, and Mordred took some soldiers and interrupted their affair. They tried to arrest Lancelot for treason, but he escaped. So they arrested Guinevere and planned to burn her at the stake. Arthur was unable to defend Guinevere because the king had to uphold the law. At the time of her execution, Lancelot swooped in with a band of soldiers and rescued her. However, in the process he killed several people, and there was an outcry for revenge. To save Camelot’s honor, King Arthur’s army had to face Lancelot’s army in battle. Half of the knights of the Round Table were killed and Camelot was ruined. In the end, King Arthur forgave both Lancelot and Guinevere, who had lost their taste for one another, and Guinevere became a nun.
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
I’m not sure that happened to me today. I’m going to have to meditate a bit longer on this one!
GOOD SUMMARY.
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
Wow, I almost skipped the video as well. Im not much for musicals. I have seen a newer version of Camelot years ago, but dont recall the story too well. This was beautiful. I may watch it a few more times. Just how perfect our world is when we are in the King’s presence, putting him first daily.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
Without replaying and calling to mind, the perfect seasons, not out of balance like we are experiencing so much in our world. Everything is beautiful and perfect in Camelot, much like Eden before the fall of man.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
I like how she was drawn to the King and did not realize it was even Him. Even his own people almost arrested him as a pheasant before they realized he was the King. I was especially drawn to how much she was drawn to the King and not even realizing who he was.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
I do know they betrayed the King, and I think the King dies, but cant recall it all.
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
Im not sure on this one, I will read others perspectives on this question. To me I should put God first daily, not turn to idols or loose my sight on God. Some people play with fire and get burned so to speak? Even though they know the shouldnt. Seek God why He may be found…
5. Mike Reeves links The King of Psalm 2 to the Blessed Man of Psalm 1 in several ways. One is through Deuteronomy 17:18-20. Read it and see if you agree,
The King mentioned in Deuteronomy is to have the law with him-to meditate on it all the days of his life so that he would revere God and live the law out carefully-and the King and his descendants will reign a long time over his kingdom in Israel-and the Humility-to not Lord it over them or think better of himself-this is definitely Jesus..I definitely see the link in Deuteronomy between Psalm 1 and 2.
6. Listen to the first twelve minutes of Reeves and comment.I really like how Mike Reeves sees things. How have we come so far in our interpretation of scripture in the church that we have lost such big aspects of it?! I really want to listen to the rest of this and his other Psalms lectures. I liked his comment on the gender issue – if you read Psalms in neutral gender then you have lost the prophetic aspect of the book. I also like his parallels drawing out Christ as the only righteous man, the only ultimate King.
7. Pray that you would kiss this King, honor this King, long for this King to be King of your heart: Father God, my King, Thank you for being accessible! Thank you for loving me. I come to you with all my burdens and anxiety and I ask for rest, that my soul would be still in Your presence so that the demands of the day do not overwhelm me in their tidal wave. I pray for divine perspective that I would be able to honor You with my deeds and attitude. Lord, I know that You delight in me but help me to honor that with gospel choices, to be Your love to those around me. Help me turn away from the obligations that threaten to crowd your throne in my heart and instead let me just serve You one task at a time, allowing Your Divine appointments to be a south wind in my life and not a north wind. God I do long to kiss You, I long for Your throne in my life to be untouched, undisturbed by the obligations and idols that prowl at the door. How sweet is sitting on Your lap and being held and transformed. I love YOU. I want YOU. Be my strength, I cannot do it. Amen.
Oh, Jill, such a beautiful prayer. Amen to it.
I like that on the gender issue too. More complicated than many think.
Laura-d…my thoughts are of you today as you begin radiation…know that my prayers will be covering you.
Yes, Laura d, prayers going out for you today as you begin radiation.
Praying too Laura-dancer! You are so loved here–check in when you can, but may you feel the peace of His arms around you through our prayers
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
I think I have a bent towards seeing the warnings in Scripture and they speak to me…it says to kiss the Son, lest he be angry and you be destroyed in your way. The words “in your way” stand out to me. It reminded me of the verse in Proverbs that says there is a way that seems right to a man, but it leads to destruction, or the one about the foolish woman who tears down her house with her own hands. Every day I make choices and even the little ones that seem so inconsequential add up…they can become a pattern of behavior, an ingrained, stubborn attitude, a wrong way of thinking. I can choose to go my own way and to drift away from God and the consequences may be destruction in my life and in the lives of those closest to me. It is better to turn around and choose to remain close to Jesus.
Susan, Thank you. I needed this today. All of it but especially:
Susan,
As I read your post— where you say, “The words “in your way” stand out to me.” I can relate— it was like seeing a movie in my mind when I sulk like a two year old wanting their own way. Two year olds act that way, they are not mature yet, but I’m 65.
And your last part, “It is better to turn around and choose to remain close to Jesus.” So true, He never moved, I did.
Nanci, thanks for the reminder that Laura-dancer begins radiation treatments today. Praying for you too, Laura.
I have not had the opportunity to work through the rest of the lesson on the persecution of Christians but the Lord led me to look at Colossians 1:24 this morning
and I found an incredible sermon by John Piper on it called “Called to Suffer and Rejoice: To Finish the Aim of Christ’s Afflictions”. You probably can find it under his website http://www.desiringgod.org. I found the sermon here. I share this because it might help in understanding why Christians suffer – a difficult and deep issue especially in light of the terrible persecution some are suffering.
Here is a quote from Piper’s sermon:
I watched the first half of Camelot last night and I have to tell you the spiritual parallels are amazing. It was an arranged marriage and she tried to avoid it by running away (our calling to Christ and created purpose) and yet the King found her and wooed her anyway. And her fascination for Lancelot all began because she disobeyed the King – he kindly asked her to stop the knight challenges and she said if you order me then I will obey but he wouldn’t order her he just wanted her to listen as his wife. She created distance even when he was requesting intimacy. She stopped relating to him, fixated on only one thing – to rid the world of the one person who incensed her. Arthur grieved her distance and wanted her back but did not “force it.” And then the attitude of Lancelot and Guinevere … I wonder – were they more worried about getting caught in their affections? Or hurting Arthur? I would guess the former not the later. What grief that when we are “caught” in our adulterous affections that we run from Him afraid of consequences when really we should run to Him to reignite our commitment and intimacy! If only…
I am anxious to watch the rest of the movie (3 hours!). I agree with Elizabeth, we should open blog party to watch the movie together and discuss these things. What fun that would be. =)
Laura-D, praying for you today.
Thanks for this summary of the plot so far, jillwithaj. Please let me know how the rest of it goes. Your summary is so much more helpful than the one I read of Wikipedia. I don’t think I will be able to watch the movie but I really want to know how it goes and love your perspective. I can see the parallel’s to Christ.
Jill,
I love the light that your insight throws on the spiritual parallels between King Arthur and Christ.
The part where you say,
Isn’t that always one of the enemy’s tactics as he whispers in our ear about how we really blew this time and what a terrible Christian we are— satan knows if we believe his lies, we won’t run to the King to reignite our commitment and intimacy.
I just listened to a really good program that was aired yesterday on Chris Fabry Live. A woman named Ruthie Delk was his guest and as I listened to her, I was thinking that she must have read Idol Lies and/or been influenced by Tim Keller. She especially touched on the idols of approval and control…needing to preach the gospel to ourselves daily-to fight for the truth to defeat the lies we believe about God and about ourselves. If anyone has time to listen, it is so good. The website is http://www.chrisfabrylive.org and from there you click on Past Programs and it was yesterday’s (1/13) program, the first hour.
Thanks for the heads up!
Just got home from a Christian book store, was there to buy some piano music to play. A book that was on a display shelf caught my attention. It was entitled “Chasing God”. I’ve never heard of the author but picked up the book because of the title.
Here’s what I read:
A number of years ago I poured out my heart to the Father, “Father I read in the Bible about those who knew you, I know the people you have brought across my path that hear your voice and have a close intimate, warm and affectionate relationship with you but I’m tired of relying more on others explanation of you. I want to know you— hear your voice for myself, experience for myself your warm and affectionate love you have for me. I desire to experience you, your very being.
I have a sense the Father, Son and Holy Spirit were just waiting to hear those words. I can truly say from personal experience that the love of the Anointed is infinitely longer, wider, and deeper than anything I previously experienced since praying that prayer in 1990. (The journey’s been rough at time, smooth at times, slow at times, thrilling at times and joyous).
I didn’t know it at the time but I was praying one of the prayers Paul prayed in Ephesians 3.
Ephesians 3:14-19The Voice Translation
14 It is for this reason that I bow my knees before the Father,
15 after whom all families in heaven above and on earth below receive their names, and pray:
16 Father, out of Your honorable and glorious riches, strengthen Your people. Fill their souls with the power of Your Spirit
17 so that through faith the Anointed One will reside in their hearts. May love be the rich soil where their lives take root. May it be the bedrock where their lives are founded so that together
18 with all of Your people they will have the power to understand that the love of the Anointed is infinitely long, wide, high and deep, surpassing everything anyone previously experienced. God, may Your fullness flood through their entire beings.
That’s my prayer for every woman here.
What a lovely testimony and prayer, Cindy. Precious! I have heard of the book “Chasing God”. I was dubious because I thought the author was advocating chasing God, but it seems that she is advocating to stop chasing God. Let me know what you think of the book!
Diane,
I didn’t buy the book. I thought the same thing as you at first, until I read, I think it was on the inside of the jacket cover, that’s the part I posted above. When I checked at Amazon that’s how they introduce the book. That’s the part I remember reading at the book store.
Cindy, thank you for posting this. What you quoted this author as saying in her book was similar to the program I listened to on Chris Fabry’s program on Monday (Ruthie Delk). She, too, was having a crisis of faith and everything she believed about God didn’t seem to be making any difference in her life. And the prayer that you prayed – it is how I feel much of the time. I listen to and am around those who seem to experience God’s presence in a way that I am not…I don’t want to “live off of” the faith of others…I want my own experiences with Him but He feels so far away most of the time.
A wonderful woman of God, Sylvia Evans, back in the late 80’s— if I remember correctly, commended Dee Brestin’s book, “The Friendship of Women” to pastor’s wives and women in leadership at a Bible School my husband was attending at the time. We know Sylvia personally and we had her, on more than one occasion, come to talk to our women. As I got to know her better, she is someone who makes you hungry for more of God. She was one of the key person’s God used in my life back then when I was struggling and sinking into deep despair and had lost all hope, to point me to the only one who could touch and heal the brokenness.
So when she told the women about this new book she was reading, and the author had a heart for women, my ears perked up. I bought the book and several more books by Dee, over the years.
I love the way Dee speaks to a women’s heart. Sylvia always says, “Jesus goes to the heart of the matter because He always concerned with the matters of the heart.” Since I’ve experienced the reality of that statement— I’ve claimed the saying as my own. 🙂
Right now my husband is an “Intentional Interim Pastor”. The stress is on “Intentional“. It’s not just preaching on Sunday mornings until the real pastor comes. He works with leadership, helps bring healing and is gifted in conflict resolution and helps them become a thriving, healthy church again before a new pastor comes. He can be at a church anywhere from 6 months to two years, depending on the circumstances.
I can look back now and see the Lord’s wisdom in dealing with all those “things” in my life back in 1990 and how I saw my identity in being a pastor’s wife and other “things” I did to try to gain God’s acceptance and approval of me.
I’m able to go with my husband into these churches and simply love each woman for who she is and not feel slighted because I’m not “the First Lady”.
So I said all that to say— when I knew of Dee’s Bible Study Blog, it’s truly been a “Kiss” from my beloved and I knew it would be a safe place to come to.
Thanks for this information about how you got to know Dee and also about what you and your husband “do”. I too got to know Dee through “The Friendships of Women” in the early 90s. I love you and your husband’s “heart” for hurting men and women. My husband pastors in rural Canada.
And it is so good to have you here.
Interim pastor is an important and challenging role — may the Lord be with him.
1. In the above clip, see if you can:
A. Find winsomeness in King Arthur that reflects the winsomeness of the True King
King Arthur is enthusiastic and describes Camelot with a child-like demeanor. He also has a genuine and charming way about him like our True King who speaks to us with such love and charisma.
B. Find descriptions of Camelot that reflect the beauty of Eden.
Camelot is a place for a happy ever ending. The weather is perfect, rain and snow, fog comes and goes at a perfect time. King Arthur says that Camelot is where everything happens according to law and it is the best place to live in.
C. Do you see any other parallels to the true story?
Yes there are many parallels. It is a perfect place to live in, it has all the things you may need to live happily there and it promises happiness and a joyous life.
2. If you know the end of the story, how did the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot impact King Arthur and Camelot?
I do not know the end of the story but I suppose that the infidelity of Guinevere and Lancelot caused great damage to King Arthur’s heart and as a result it also caused Camelot to suffer the same afflictions that the king’s heart was going through. Betrayal not only destroys the person that was betrayed but it can also cause the demise of his/her surroundings and can affect other people he/she is in contact with. I say this because I know someone who when she is going through her down moments, her house suffers because she has no motivation to organize or clean and therefore her feelings affect her home and surroundings even the way she deals or treats others.
3. With the above in mind, meditate on Psalm 2:12 and find an application for yourself today.
It was not easy to connect psalm 2:12 and the above – not because there was a lack of thinking process in my mind but because I wanted to apply it to my person in the best way possible. After thinking it through, I realize that “kiss” used in the beginning of the verse has a deeper meaning. It is not a physical kiss. In this verse to me the word “kiss” is a symbol of your love for Jesus, of your loyalty to Him, of your decision to follow Him no matter what. When we do all these things it is as if we are kissing Him and he is pleased with us and therefore His anger cannot touch us because we have kissed Him just the way the psalm says we should. Therefore, I pray that I can be more and more loyal to my True King day after day and until the end of my days so that eventually in heaven my spirit can unite to His and I can enjoy the Eden that we lost here on earth years ago and I look forward to celebrating with Jesus and with all my brothers and sisters in Christ.
Good application on the kiss, Karen. Brings in the weight of glory.
Karen, your answer to #3. really helped me to better understand “the kiss” in Psalm 2. When I first read it, I got images in my mind of like how people bow down and kiss the ring on the pope’s finger…you did a great job at bringing out the deeper meaning of it.
4. Hints as to WHO this King is:
V. 1-2 He’s the Chosen One. It’s almost funny to read Verse 1 and realize how silly all those vain plots and conspiracies are against the Anointed and Chosen Messiah! I mean, seriously? You think you can take down the King of the Universe? (And yet, my wandering heart can so easily be rebellious too, just as the subversive kingdom subjects mentioned in v.1 – such a sobering thought.)
V. 6 This King is established on Zion – (the holy hill of the cross and representing the promised land/heaven).
This King, although He is powerful enough to dash his enemies to pieces like broken pottery (V. 8), is so humble that He did not exalt Himself to his position but was appointed to be King as the begotten of the Father (V. 7). Jesus’ humility is just incomprehensible – and also so attractive that it draws us in to know Him more!
5. Mike Reeves links The King of Psalm 2 to the Blessed Man of Psalm 1 in several ways. One is through Deuteronomy 17:18-20. Read it and see if you agree:
I’m still mulling this over, but I do think Mike Reeves makes a great point in that if Psalm 1 is such a hinge point of the whole book of Psalms (and the whole Bible for that matter), then Christ MUST be at the center of it. I loved that Luther quote towards the end of the 12 minute chunk. I looked at a Luther commentary online but couldn’t find the exact quote that Mike used…something about Christ being the Blessed man through whom all blessings are found or something along those lines…ah, I should go back and listen to it again!
I’m still pondering Blessed is the Man part too — and looking to see if I agree that Book 1 in Psalms is like Book 1 of Moses — I am seeing more. So fascinating.
I found that Luther quote from his commentary on Psalm 1! “The first Psalm speaks of Christ…He is the only Blessed one, and the man from whose fullness they have all received that they may be blessed….” On a side note, I found out Luther also had some rather anti-Semitic views, but in a theological sense, not in a racist sense. Somewhat disheartening, but I still love this quote!
DEE, CAN WE MAKE OUR PRAYER REQUESTS ALL CAPS LIKE BEFORE WHEN WE HAD LOTS OF POSTS? IT IS EASIER TO SEE WHAT PEOPLE NEED (IMMEDIATELY).
Thank you!
Also, very rough week so far…..doing the study, just sad with ill mother issues and crazy with life issues. Can’t seem to find a time to post. maybe in the morning. Time for bed. Thank you Jesus for good friends and thoughtful students. Thank you ladies for all your prayers. I am well 🙂
Laura dancer,
Sorry you are having a rough week – mother and life. Praying. Please keep us updated.
Laura-d, I’m so sorry this has been a “very rough week so far”…I thank the Lord for your “good friends and thoughtful students” that help ease the immense burden just a little bit. I’ll be praying for peace and calm for you today, as well as continued prayers for healing for you and your Mom.
5. Read the following page on praying for persecuted Christians and then put it into action right here through your prayers: Link
Let us “pray continually” for those in persecution. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Let us pray that our persecuted family in Christ “…be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith.” (2 Thessalonians 3:2)
Let us pray that those in persecution “…will have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.” (Hebrews 13:18)
Pray that “…his glorious riches…strenthen” our persecuted brothers and sisters “with power through his Spirit” in their “inner being.” (Epesians 3:16)
BTW….this was VERY cool Dee! I enjoyed praying this way by the guidelines of the article!
6. Read Psalm 2 and then pray Psalm 2:10-12 for the rulers of the world.
Dear Jesus, our rulers are out of control. Thank you for giving us reminders that You are the true King, that You are in charge of all, and You prevail over us. Help our leaders tho understand that You are the one who should be aclnowledged and followed. It is there, in the bible, stated plainly; “…Kings be wise; be warned. Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling.” Help our leaders to know that if they aren’t willing to “kiss the Son,” they put themselves in a position to feel Your “wrath.” Lord, assist them in their discernment of the law and with knowing what is right and wrong to do in their position. Please remind them to be humble. May they get “over themselves” for our sake. Amen.
7. Pray the last phrase “Blessed are all who take refuge in him” and Psalm 3 for persecuted Christians.
“Blessed are all who take refuge in Him.” Lord, as You are well aware, some of those who have complete faith in You are tortured, imprisoned and even killed here on earth. I think of the US pastor in prison in Iran, Pastor Saeed Abedini, who is in danger just even being in the prison itself. Lord, please let his captors find compassion and his wife and children find peace throughout this ordeal. Help us learn to stand together in our belief, and, with You, be a “shield around” Pastor Abedini. Help the Pastor to not feel fear of those who may hurt him in the prison. Lord, you will deliver, we know this to be true. Amen.
Laura-D, Amen and amen.