I AM EXCITED ABOUT BEING A PART OF A NEW CHURCH PLANT
IN MY LITTLE THUMB OF WISCONSIN.
BUT, OH, THE SPIRITUAL WARFARE HAS BEEN INTENSE!
I CAN BECOME
FRIGHTENED & DISCOURAGED.
THIS LIFE IS CHALLENGING AND I AM CONSTANTLY
BATTLING THE WORLD, MY OWN FLESH, AND THE DEVIL.
I KNOW YOU FEEL IT TOO.
SO WHAT CAN WE DO?
JOHN PIPER SAYS “BEHOLDING IS BECOMING.”
BEHOLDING CHRIST IN THE PSALMS
WILL CHANGE US INTO OVERCOMERS.
WE CAN, IN CHRIST, OVERCOME
THE WORLD, OUR FLESH, AND THE DEVIL.
Recently our own Susan was contemplating how Tim Keller often emphasizes that if we try to follow Jesus, we will be crushed, but if we let His glory melt our hearts, we will be changed. This is what the psalter can do for us when we see Jesus in every psalm. And then our own Jill shared how when she prays the psalms directly it is not as powerful as seeing Christ in it and then praying them.
WE ARE AT A CAPSTONE THIS WEEK IN PSALM 24 WHEN WE READ:
.
THE PSALMS, AS MIKE REEVE EXPLAINS, HAS A FLOW —
LIKE HANDEL’S MESSIAH. IT’S ALL ABOUT JESUS.
- Handel’s Messiah performed in Toronto
AND JUST AS IN THE MESSIAH, THERE ARE THEMES.
WE HAVE JUST FINISHED ONE THEME WHICH BEGAN
IN PSALM 15 AND IS CAPPED IN PSALM 24.
WHO SHALL DWELL ON YOUR HOLY HILL? (PSALM 15:1)
WHO SHALL ASCEND THE HILL OF THE LORD? (PSALM 24:3)
WHO IS THIS KING OF GLORY?
JESUS, THE LORD OF HOSTS,
HE IS THE KING OF GLORY!
The flowing theme between these two bookends is this Lord of Glory.
He is our Portion in Psalm 16,
our Savior in Psalm 17,
our Fortress in Psalm 18,
our Bridegroom who comes forth like the rising sun in Psalm 19,
our Anointed One in Psalm 20,
our Exalted One in Psalm 21,
our Crucified One in Psalm 22,
our Shepherd in Psalm 23,
and our Ascended One in Psalm 24!
SEEING CHRIST, PRAISING HIM BY USING THE PSALTER, CAN MELT OUR HEARTS OF STONE INTO HEARTS OF FLESH.
This Psalm was sung on Ascension Day and has some fascinating associations to the day David ascended the hill of Zion with the Ark of the Covenant. He danced for joy to know that the presence of God was now going to be in Jerusalem. This foreshadowed the day Christ Himself would ascend to the heavenly Jerusalem. But we have so much more, for when Christ ascended, the Spirit descended to be with us, that we might have the presence of God within us all the time.
SUNDAY ICEBREAKER:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
2. What are you facing right now which will overwhelm you without your Lord of Glory?
Monday-Thursday Bible Study:
David dancing before the Lord. Bronze Sculpture. C. Malcom Powers
Charles Spurgeon explains: “This sacred hymn was probably written to be sung when the ark of the covenant was taken up from the house of Obed-edom to remain within curtains upon the hill of Zion The words are not unsuitable for the sacred dance of joy in which David led the way upon that joyful occasion. The eye of the Psalmist looked, however, beyond the typical upgoing of the ark to the sublime ascenseion to the King of Glory.”
Psalm 24: LIFT UP YOUR GATES, O ANCIENT DOORS, THAT THE KING OF GLORY MAY COME IN!
This psalm was traditionally sung on Ascension Day, and you may find some great hymns to go with this to share with us. There is great rejoicing that Jesus has ascended. As wonderful as it was to have Him on earth bodily, He told Mary not to cling to Him for He needed to ascend. When He was with them bodily, He couldn’t always be with them, but He told them, when He ascended, He would send the Holy Spirit so that He would always be with them. This was not just true for them, but for every believer. He never leaves us or forsakes us. His Spirit helps us pray, comforts us, and one day will be with us as we cross the river. The ancient doors will open for us as well, for we are washed in HIs blood, and able therefore to enter in and ever be with the Lord.
3. Read 1 Chronicles 15:25-29 as background.
A. Describe the scene.
B. What did bringing the ark up to the hill in Jerusalem represent and why was David so joyful?
C. There is spiritual warfare in his own household. Describe Michal’s response. Why, do you think?
Puritan Arthur Pink writes:
Before it ended, the joyful day of David’s bringing up of the ark to Jerusalem was overcast by a domestic cloud. There was one in his own household who was incapable of entering into the fervor of his heart toward God, who was irritated by his devotion, and who bitterly condemned his zeal: one who was near and dear to him railed upon the king for his earnestness in Jehovah’s cause and service. The enmity of the Serpent was stirred by the honor accorded the holy ark, the procession of the Levites, the jubilation of Israel’s ruler, and the offerings which had been presented before the Lord. The anointed eye has no difficulty in discerning behind Michal him who is the inveterate enemy of God and His people, and in her biting denunciation of David, the Christian of today may learn what to expect from those who are not one with him in the Lord.
D. How does Arthur Pink’s comment help you understand opposition you may be facing?
4. Read Acts 1:4-11
A. What promise did Jesus give them in verse 5?
B. What question did they ask in verse 6 and what misunderstanding did their question reveal?
C. How did Jesus answer in verses 7-8 and then how did He demonstrate that answer in verse 9?
5. Read Psalm 24 aloud.
A. How is the LORD seen as Creator and Sustainer in verses 1-2?
B. See Christ in verses 3-5 and describe what you learn.
C. What do you learn from verse 6? Compare this to Hebrews 9:11-14 and explain how we too may enter in, and why the ancient gates will open for those who have sought Him as well.
D. Patrick Reardon comments on the closing (Psalm 24:7-10) “The King of Glory comes to the entrance of heaven with the blood of conflict still fresh upon Him (cf. Isaiah 63:1-6; Revelation 19:13) and a kind of dialogue takes place as the angels call for the opening of the portcullis at the approach of the returning Warrior.” What call is given in these verses to the ancient gates and why?
E. Using this psalm, write your own prayer of praise to the King of Glory.
Friday: Teaching from Mike Reeves
I posted this a few weeks ago, but because we had technical difficulties on the blog, many of you didn’t get to hear it. It is such a good summary that I’m posting it again.
6. Please share your notes and comments.
Saturday:
7. What is your take-a-way and why?
212 comments
Wanda raises a good question — why do you think Michael despised David here — for she had seemed to love him?
I have really enjoyed Keller’s A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23. I have learned so much that I never knew before that allows the psalm to make much more sense and have greater meaning. I’m wondering if any of you have read A Gardener Looks at the Fruits of the Spirit? I see that there is a book that has four different books (A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, A Shepherd Looks at the Good Shepherd and His Sheep, A Layman Looks at the Lord’s Prayer, and A Gardener Looks at the Fruits of the Spirit) included in it…I’m thinking of purchasing it. Are other books of Keller as good as this?
3A. Describe the scene.
The scene is a celebratory one, parade-like and joyful. The people are celebrating the arrival of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem which they had hoped and longed for.
B. What did bringing the ark up to the hill in Jerusalem represent and why was David so joyful?
Bringing the ark up to the hill in Jerusalem mean the return of the Lord to Jerusalem…Jerusalem would once again be the holy city worshiping it’s Lord up close and personal. David was so joyful because of the ark’s (the Lord’s) return to Jerusalem. David had prepared for the return of the ark to Jerusalem, but his first attempt failed because he did not follow the directives established by the Lord for moving the ark. In David’s second attempt, he followed the directives explicitly and was now seeing the ark (Lord’s presence) back in the city of Jerusalem as was hoped.
C. Describe Michal’s response. Why do you think?
Michal was disgusted by David’s celebratory antics; she found his celebrations to be embarrassing and what she considered “beneath” that of the status of “king.” She viewed David’s action as a loss of respect for him by his people. I think Michal’s reaction was based upon her preconceived notions of how a king should act and didn’t fully realize that David’s celebrations were in response to his (David’s) King and the jubilance was appropriate for the King of Kings. She was Saul’s daughter; she saw how her father acted as king and likely had similar expectations in that regard for David.
D. How does Pink’s comment help you understand opposition you may be facing?
Pink cites Satan as the source of Michal’s irritation and condemnation of David…I guess I hadn’t thought that previously and it is certainly interesting and enlightening. Yes, I can see how Satan takes situations and circumstances and twists, turns, and spins them to bring fear, doubt, and dissension. Satan is oh so subtle and deceptive…it is scary to think of how many times he is able to sow his ugly seeds into the mind and hearts of those who love the Lord…we (I) allow it because I sometimes live in an “auto pilot” mode to get things done or get through certain situations, which means those subtle efforts of sabotage go unnoticed until they wreck their havoc…I really must be more diligent and attentive to Satan’s attacks (e.g., embarrassment, comparison, doubts, temptations) and not allow him his ploys at destruction and torment.
I haven’t Nanci but if you order will be interested. I did really like Margaret Feinberg’s Wool, Wine, and Wild Grapes — she spent time on a sheep farm and a vineyard…very interesting
I did order the compilation…I couldn’t resist; I so thoroughly enjoyed A Shepherd…Psalm 23. I thought similarly tying gardening in with the fruit of the spirit as he had with sheep and psalm 23 might be really interesting and insightful. And then there are also the two others…:) I’ll let you know what I think. Thanks for the Feinberg recommendation.
Yes, let us know!
Nanci and Dee…. I loved the Psalm 23 book also. I have my mom’s copy and also STILL WATERS by Phillip Keller. I have not read it yet. Looks like it is about seeing God in the natural world around us. Looks like he has many more books I have never heard of……Mountains of Splendour , Canada’s Wild Glory and Africa’s Wild Glory and several more. From a brief scanning of a few pages, looks like he had an interlude of several years after his wife died when he wasn’t writing, but I wonder if he talks about that experience in this or other books, as well.
I am never sure just where my post will come in, but I wanted to respond to Nanci’s post and also Deanna’s.
The book of Phillip Keller’s was so wonderful and helpful to me, also. The comparisons he made to the shepherd and his sheep
just teaches me so much. I am beginning to understanding these psalms in a whole new light. There is so much in them that I have not seen before. Jesus in the creation and conquest is beautiful.
I had not looked at Psalm 24 before and studied the other scriptures as describing David’s ascending the Mount of Zion. I had been puzzled over the phrase “Lift up your heads, O you gates, be lifted up, you ancient doors; that the King of glory may come in. Christ’s ascension into eternal glory is beautiful.
The comments about Satan as the source of Michal’s condemnation of David seems so logical. Yes, he attacks through comparison, embarrassment, doubts and temptations. He is the great deceiver.
I am learning so much by reading and reviewing all the posts. There are so many great insights.
Thanks to each of you and thanks for your prayers.
God is working on my heart and this week I made my decision to rent my home in Vermont. I know that God is blessing this
decision as I offered it to a young couple in ministry and they are excited about coming to my small town. However the doubts creep in as I give up my dream for God’s greater plan. I know that I need to die to self, but self is hard to let go.
I am looking forward to the next study very much as I see my idols of comfort and approval getting in my way.
I have always claimed Psalm 27:1 as my life verse. It addresses my weak area of fear. “The Lord is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid.”
Shirley, I’m glad you are feeling a blessing by being open to renting your home. Sounds like God is leading and He may have some great surprises for you still…..along the way. Peace to you.
Shirley…this is what I’ve been learning regarding where posts show up. If you click on ‘reply’ your post will land directly below the comment to which you are replying….or if there are other replies to the same comment it will land beneath the last one. But after you have replied to someone’s comment, if you don’t refresh the page, your next comment (that is not a reply) will still land beneath the reply you just made. Except this time, it won’t be indented but will hit back in the left margin. (I didn’t even notice the indentations until someone pointed it out to me). So, what I’ve been finding, is that when I want a comment to land at the very bottom of the page because it is a ‘new’ comment and not a reply, I need to make sure I refresh the page. Sometimes I have actually closed the site and re-opened it. OR I THINK (but not sure) that if my name and email address appears when I go back to post, it will land wherever I last wrote and not at the bottom….so that seems to be an indicator that I need to refresh. My explanation is cumbersome, but I hope it’s helpful. I’m definitely still learning too!
Nanci, your answer for C. helps clarify Michal’s response for me. Thanks
4A. What promise did Jesus give them in v. 5?
The disciples would “be baptized with the Holy Spirit”.
B. What question did they ask in v. 6 and what misunderstanding did their question reveal?
They asked if Jesus was now going to restore the kingdom to Israel. The disciples were still thinking that Jesus’ purposes were earthly, i.e., would Rome be defeated by Jesus and Israel freed? They didn’t see the bigger picture/purpose.
C. How did Jesus answer in v. 7-8 and then how did He demonstrate that answer in v. 9?
The times and dates of the Father’s authority are known only to the Father; it is not for the disciples to know the Father’s timetable. Jesus reiterated to the disciples that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came to them; the power would allow them to serve as witnesses of the gospel to all (i.e., “to the ends of the earth”). My study bible expounds on “power”…”Power from the Holy Spirit is not limited to strength beyond the ordinary–that power also involves courage, boldness, confidence, insight, ability, and authority.” It also notes the progression…”1. they would receive the holy Spirit, 2, He would give them power, and 3. they would witness with extraordinary results. … Witness is not showing what we can do for God. It is showing and telling what God has done for us.” In v. 9, Jesus ascends unannounced and unexpectedly; the disciples were dazed when Jesus ascended unexpectedly…this was an example of the Father’s timeframe being unknown to others and an event just happening.
“In v.9, Jesus ascends unannounced and unexpectedly; the disciples were dazed when Jesus ascended unexpectedly…this was an example of the Father’s timeframe being unknown to others and an event just happening.” That’s good, Nanci…I hadn’t thought of it like that before; there was significance in His sudden departure as to not knowing the Father’s timing.
5A. How is the Lord seen as Creator and Sustainer in v. 1-2?
V. 1 states that possession of the world and all in it is the Lord’s…He is the owner and keeper of the world and all it contains. V. 2 reveals that the Lord is the Creator of the world and all in it…”He founded it…and established it.”
B. See Christ in v. 3-5 and describe what you learn.
We all fall short of “clean hands and a pure heart” and the unfortunate truth is that I certainly have and continue at times to lift my “soul to an idol.” Thankfully Jesus provides His righteous on my behalf. Jesus is the blessing, He vindicates me. This is the gospel…:)
C. What do you learn from v. 6? Compare this to Hebrews 9:11-14 and explain how we too may enter in, and why the ancient gates will open for those who have sought Him as well.
Those who sincerely seek the Lord (e.g., follow Him, obedience to Him, in relationship with Him) will receive the blessing of vindication. Though we are not worthy on our own accord, Jesus justifies us and clears us of our unrighteousness by covering us with His own righteousness. Jesus’ sacrifice for our redemption provides us a place in the Father’s presence, family, and home (heaven)…it is by Jesus’ sacrifice that we are made righteous and worthy. It is by Jesus’ sacrifice for us that we too may enter the ancient gates. We are the beneficiaries of Jesus goodness and mercy; we are declared righteous and worthy through Jesus; on our own, death would be the declaration.
I listened to this lecture a couple of weeks ago, but I didn’t post then, because I felt it wouldn’t add anything to what Renee has posted. But I listened to it again and decided to post it this time.
Mike Reeves’ Lecture on Psalms 19-24:
Up to Psalm 19, creational language dominates, and Psalm 19 is the climax to all of the explicit creation stuff.
From Psalm 20 on, the emphasis shifts to a focus on the Genesis 3 rescue plan. Salvation has been there all along, but the focus shifts a little bit. In verse 5, “your salvation” indicates victory (“Your victory”). David is speaking to someone who is recognized as victorious, who brings salvation. “Save the King,” he says, even though he is the king. David is praying for the king. Which king? You don’t want to pray this about any old king of Israel. David is praying for “the anointed.” The anointed king will bring salvation. Psalm 21 has very similar themes to Psalm 20.
Psalm 22: In this psalm the prophecy of Jesus’ sufferings was made in wonderful detail and with extraordinary accuracy. In verse 1, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Here we believe Jesus had the whole psalm in mind when he quotes verse 1 on the cross. In verse 16, “Dogs have surrounded me, a band of evil men has encircled me, they have pierced my hands and my feet.” This didn’t happen to David – it applies to Jesus. The king of Israel is a shadow of the anointed. Reading the Psalms together, you begin to see a grid that looks Messianic.
Psalm 23: Verse 3 has lovely pastoral imagery. “He restores my soul.” He brings my soul back – from what – He brings my soul back from death. Psalm 23 is a psalm of resurrection. Even from such suffering, he still has comfort. The feasting implies victory. He is anointed. I shall return to dwell in the House of the Lord forever. The psalm is one of comfort with a resurrection foundation. (Mike Reeves said he saw a footnote that says the word “return” is used, but I don’t have that in my Bible).
Psalm 24: This is a psalm of ascension. It is thought that this was composed when David brought the ark of the covenant up Mount Zion to Jerusalem. The story is described in detail in 1 Chronicles 15. The ark had been residing at the house of Obed-Edom. Why was David so excited? We know that he was wearing an only an ephod and was dancing, so that when his wife Michal saw him, she despised him. Why was David so excited? It may have been because of something deeper in the Ark’s history.
In Numbers 10:33, is recorded the description of Moses’ excitement (Reeves says Moses was having fun) when the Ark would set out. Moses would say “Rise up, O Lord! May your enemies be scattered, may your foes flee before you.” Whenever it came to rest, he said, “Return , O Lord, to the countless thousands of Israel.” This kind of theology is in the background of Psalm 24.
Ascending the hill of the Lord. The ark is going in – the throne of the Lord is going in, going up into the Holy of Holies. However, this time there is something a little different. There is reference to “ancient and everlasting doors,” indicating a higher reality. This doesn’t work on flaps of the tabernacle. No, it is ascending into heaven itself, the true Holy of Holies – that the King of Glory may come in. The identity of the person is being talked about. Who is the King of Glory? – The Lord of hosts. Hosts means armies. These are military terms, and this is a victory train. It is not just that the earth was already the Lords, because he made it, but that he has conquered all. All things are His by virtue of creation and conquest. Hence He can sit on the throne. Jesus is not just the High Priest. He is the King of Glory, Jesus is the Lord of Hosts.
Such good notes, Deanna!
Yes, indeed. Fabulous notes, Deanna. I struggled with getting things done this week, so I have copied and pasted your notes and hope to follow the sermon with them in hand. Thanks so much!
5. Read Psalm 24 aloud. I love this Psalm — and don’t understand much of it! I still can hear Reeves’ excitement in my head; looking forward to listening again.
A. How is the LORD seen as Creator and Sustainer in verses 1-2? He made the world; he established it; he owns it. I love the word “fullness” — that word indicates to me that his Creator-ness (and creation) and Sustainer-ness (and sustenance) is greater than my comprehension.
B. See Christ in verses 3-5 and describe what you learn. (off the subject!! The geographical movement from vs 1-3 is “interesting.” The LORD founded the earth upon seas and rivers. And then we have the hill.)Jesus is the only one who is qualified to ascend into God’s presence. God is holy, and Jesus alone fits the description of having clean hands, pure heart, doesn’t align with what is false, and doesn’t deceive. When I see Christ in vs 5, I get a glimpse of the Trinity — the union, fellowship, dance of the Godhead, the restoration (not sure that is the right word) of Jesus to his rightful place at the right hand of God. And I could be way off base!!!! because I haven’t looked at any commentaries. I get excited seeing Jesus, his ascension, in this psalm, because of all that the ascension means for us.
C. What do you learn from verse 6? Compare this to Hebrews 9:11-14 and explain how we too may enter in, and why the ancient gates will open for those who have sought Him as well.That blessing, that fellowship, being in the presence of God can be ours, too, because Jesus was the perfect sacrifice. OH MY! The Trinity clearly is spelled out here:
Still not sure about the gates — they are gates leading to the presence of God, His Holiness. Here’s what I don’t get: “Lift up your heads, O gates!” Gates have heads???? I don’t think it is a mixed metaphor (or whatever the appropriate technical phrase is!). I think there is something about gates (and heads of gates) that I don’t know! (So maybe I’ll look)
I am amazed at the hope God puts in my heart, how He restores me, when I dig into the Word. Thanks, Dee, for masterfully leading us through this passage. At one level, I knew the answers to some of these questions and didn’t post answers. I was really drawn to Ps 24 (still am — but will be out of town the rest of today & will get back in to it later). The correspondence between Ps 24 and Hebrews is exciting; what’s even more exciting to me is that I do get glimpses of Jesus in the Psalms — and then in the NT, I get another glimpse into the extent to which Jesus is the fulfillment of the past, the present, and the future. And though I have been taught this, too, for much of my life, it feels as if the whole (or as much of the whole as I can withstand) of the Gospel is sinking into my cells.
Thinking of the following verses (first because of the anchor, hope) Are the gates similar to the curtain? “We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 6:19-20 ESV)
Looking at the clock. 🙁 Not sure I have time to dig into gates with heads!
5. Read Psalm 24 aloud.
A. How is the LORD seen as Creator and Sustainer in verses 1-2? It (all) is His. He founded it and establishes it. He created good design that would have continued on perfectly without sin. These verses give me comfort. Like breathing in fresh air on a sunny day after being couped up for a long time. It is interesting to me that it says it was established on the waters. For man can establish something on land but to establish something stable on water would take God – proven by our feeble attempts in ships (that sink) and other temporary unstable structures at sea.
What a good point about the “established on the waters. For man can establish something on land but to establish something on water would take God”…never thought of that, but you are absolutely correct and it adds one more facet to those verses. Thanks, Jill.
B. See Christ in verses 3-5 and describe what you learn. He has a pure heart. This inspires me. He does not trust in an idol nor swear by a false God. This has huge weight after Idol Lies. Not only is this a beautiful picture of Christ Himself and Him clothing me that I may ascend with Him but i also see this as a promise – if I continue to seek Him I will be freed a little bit more and more from trusting an idol. these verses offer a Taste of full freedom that only Christ has known because He had a pure heart. My heart continues to betray.
D. How does Arthur Pink’s comment help you understand opposition you may be facing?
I think I misunderstood Michal until I read Pinks explanation. She hated the fact that David was so enamoured with God. She was upset because she mocked his love for The Lord. Her anger was deep; that he could be so distracted by God. She must have been jealous too; she doesn’t seem to be able to be so happy, not like David.
Laura, I feel you have grown so much — I see you abiding and Him making you fruitful.
Hey…just wanted to update all who have been praying for my mom – first, thank you, and…she looks like a new woman today-I could not believe the difference from yesterday. She literally looked like we should be planning her funeral yesterday, and today she is up and about and even did some light cleaning at her place…was reciting poetry (that she memorized in high school) to my daughter and giving her a “lesson” on interpreting the poem’s meaning (she always had wanted to be an English teacher). I am thankful for God’s mercy!
praising Him for this with you Susan!
Such wonderful news, Susan! Praise God! Thanks for keeping us updated.
Oh, Susan. I am SOOO glad your mom is doing better! Praise the Lord!
How encouraging, Susan.
Great news! Thanks for the update, Susan.
Susan! What great news! Thanks for the update. =)
God is so good! Praising him for your mom’s change in health, Susan!
3. D. How does Arthur Pink’s comment help you understand opposition you may be facing?
Wow…I can remember as a new Christian, someone close to me finding me on my knees praying and asking, “What are you doing?!” I’ve been called a “Bible-thumper”…”Kool-Aid drinker”…”weird”…told that “religion is a crutch for the weak”… my seeking the Lord and trying to bring or involve Him in my everyday life has been met with irritation by others. I think it’s one of the enemy’s weapons to try to make us feel like we’re the abnormal ones and that maybe we should just give up being so focused on God and just try to fit in with everyone else.
4. Read Acts 1:4-11
A. What promise did Jesus give them in verse 5?
That His disciples would be baptized with the Holy Spirit.
B. What question did they ask in verse 6 and what misunderstanding did their question reveal?
They asked Jesus if He was going to restore the kingdom to Israel right now. They still weren’t seeing the big picture…that Jesus came to reconcile men and women to God and that they were going to go out and be His workers, spreading the good news. Jesus wasn’t talking about an earthly kingdom where Israel would be supreme.
C. How did Jesus answer in verses 7-8 and then how did He demonstrate that answer in verse 9?
Jesus answered that they shouldn’t worry about times or dates that have been set by the Father for things to happen. He reinforces again that their purpose is to go out and be His witnesses (by the Spirit’s power) to the ends of the earth. They are to go and tell people about Jesus. It seems like He is transferring them into the care of the Holy Spirit, and He demonstrates this by ascending into heaven before their eyes. Now they are really going to have to trust Him and rely on the promised Holy Spirit. They must believe that they will receive power from the Spirit to accomplish the things Jesus told them to do. Jesus isn’t there anymore for them to talk to or ask…they must believe in the “unseen” – the Spirit, as much as they believed in Jesus whom they could see.
Susan….I’m so thankful your mom is doing better ..I pray she stays that way!
Susan, how I can relate to the “bible thumper” comment and those thinking I have taken my faith just a bit too far… It used to bother me, but no more. What I have in my heart is so very precious to me; I can only hope and pray for those in my family and friends to experience similarly. They are believers, but some are very compartmentalized in their faith (sad, but true). I hadn’t thought of it as being a ploy of Satan, but you are right…he would certainly use whatever means he thought would work to hinder faith, spiritual growth, etc.
4. Read Acts 1:4-11
A. What promise did Jesus give them in verse 5?
They would be baptized by the Holy Spirit.
B. What question did they ask in verse 6 and what misunderstanding did their question reveal?
They want to know if he’s going to restore the kingdom to Israel. I’m not really sure what that means though. Is it because they were ruled by the Romans and the disciples thought that the Messiah would bring their kingdom back to them?
C. How did Jesus answer in verses 7-8 and then how did He demonstrate that answer in verse 9?
Jesus said it wasn’t their privilege to know how and when God would do his work. However, they were to be witnesses to this work, and they would be given powers at a certain point to fulfill the work. He ascended to heaven and they knew what he said was true.
5. Read Psalm 24 aloud.
A. How is the LORD seen as Creator and Sustainer in verses 1-2?
The Lord made everything, and takes care of everything.
B. See Christ in verses 3-5 and describe what you learn.
Christ was pure and he would be the one who’s allowed into heaven because of this. He trusted fully in God the Father. He was blessed because he was unblemished and because of the trust.
Does someone know it there is a different link for mike reeves? I had trouble couple weeks ago with it and I’m still having trouble this week.
Laura Dancer-Go here: http://deebrestin.com/2014/05/celebrating-our-king-of-kings-psalms-20-21/ ..it is the post from two weeks ago where Dee put this link in and it works-just scroll down once you get there-you will find it. I just tried it. Or someone else may be able to find a direct link online somewhere. Hope this helps! 🙂
5. Read Psalm 24 aloud.
A. How is the LORD seen as Creator and Sustainer in verses 1-2?
The Earth is His and everything in it is His-including every human being on Earth. It is all His and He has dominion over it. This screams loudly that God is in control and mindful of every little detail-this comforts me.
B. See Christ in verses 3-5 and describe what you learn.
Jesus is God and He is the Son of God-He is Holy and He is the only one who can ascend the Hill of the Lord-God’s holy place-I can’t help but see this as Jesus enjoying and delighting in God-being in the high places with God completely fulfilled and happy. I see the cross, V4: Jesus walked blamelessly- the perfect spotless lamb. V5-He will receive blessing from the lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation…After Jesus ascended He was exalted to the right hand of God. (Acts 2:33).
C. What do you learn from verse 6? Compare this to Hebrews 9:11-14 and explain how we too may enter in, and why the ancient gates will open for those who have sought Him as well.
Jesus blood purifies us so that we can dwell in the Holy places with God-that we can ascend the Hill of the Lord with Jesus and it is all because He shed His blood for us on the Cross-there is nothing we can do to earn favor with God in order for the ancient gates to open for us.
D. Patrick Reardon comments on the closing (Psalm 24:7-10) “The King of Glory comes to the entrance of heaven with the blood of conflict still fresh upon Him (cf. Isaiah 63:1-6; Revelation 19:13) and a kind of dialogue takes place as the angels call for the opening of the portcullis at the approach of the returning Warrior.” What call is given in these verses to the ancient gates and why?
I could be way off-but I was thinking we tend to treat Jesus ascension as not that important but it was huge..I was thinking that Jesus ascending meant that He brought heaven and Earth together forever-this is HUGE. The ancient gates that were once closed are now open via His victory over sin and death and the evil one. Through His blood we may enter in-and right now as we walk here on Earth we are walking tabernacles of His Glory..so heaven and earth came together-and this has huge implications of the future too!
E. Using this psalm, write your own prayer of praise to the King of Glory.
Lord Jesus-strong and mighty in battle, you are the Lord of hosts, the King of Glory-praise be to you and you alone for you are the Holy Warrior, the Lamb of God who passionately shed your blood so that we could wear your blood and enter in to God’s holy places with you. Jesus this is too much for me to grasp, to feel even, because you are so wonderful and beautiful beyond description. Help me. All I can do is stand in awe of you even though I can’t comprehend your Glory. You are in control-I am yours and the earth is yours and everything in it-You opened the ancient gates. You are Jeshua my redeemer and savior. In your precious and Holy name, amen.
D. I am still kind of struggling with 5D and “ancient gates” -I may have been way off in my answer so I am asking for insight. :))))
I found this commentary by Henry-He applied it a few different ways but here is one I thought was good: “We may apply it to Christ’s entrance into the souls of men by his word and Spirit, that they may be his temples. Behold, he stands at the door, and knocks, Rev 3:20. The gates and doors of the heart are to be opened to him, as possession is delivered to the rightful owner.”
Interesting!
5 A. How is the LORD seen as Creator and Sustainer in verses 1-2?
The Lord has created and owns the earth and all who live in it. We belong to Christ.
B. See Christ in verses 3-5 and describe what you learn.
Only Christ meets the qualifications to ascend the Holy Hill. Only Christ is pure in heart and has clean hands, only Christ does not lift up His soul to idols or swear deceitfully. We all, on our own merit, are found unworthy to enter the Holy Place.
But by seeking the One who is worthy to enter Holy place, we are granted access–not on our own merit, but on Christ’s.
C. What do you learn from verse 6? Compare this to Hebrews 9:11-14 and explain how we too may enter in, and why the ancient gates will open for those who have sought Him as well.
Because of Christ’s sacrifice, we are free to enter into the Holy of Holies through Him! I cannot help but quote Keller “The Gospel is that Jesus Christ came to earth, lived the life we should have lived and died the death we should have died.” And because of this, by faith we are conformed to His image and we receive all the blessings bestowed upon Him.
D. What call is given in these verses to the ancient gates and why?
‘Lift up your heads, O gates! And lift them up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in!”
The gates that had been shut after the Fall(Genesis 3), have been opened.
Spurgeon: “how wide heaven’s gate is set by the ascension of our Lord. Blessed be God, the gates have never been shut since. The opened gates of heaven invite the weakest believer to enter.”
5. Read Psalm 24 aloud.
A. How is the LORD seen as Creator and Sustainer in verses 1-2?
It says that the Lord founded and established the earth/world, and that He is the Owner of the earth-and everything in it, and the world-and all who live in it. If He is the Owner, then He is responsible for sustaining it.
B. See Christ in verses 3-5 and describe what you learn.
Here I see that Jesus is the “who” in the question, “Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place?”
Jesus is the One who “has clean hands and a pure heart; who does not lift up his would to an idol or swear by what is false.”
Jesus did receive blessing from the Lord (“Surely You have granted him eternal blessings” – Psalm 21:6) and vindication from God his Savior.
C. What do you learn from verse 6? – It says “Such is the generation of those who seek Him…” It reads as if we are compared to being like this One who has the right to ascend and stand in the presence of God…we may also receive blessing from the Lord and vindication. But how can that be?
Compare this to Hebrews 9:11-14 and explain how we too may enter in, and why the ancient gates will open for those who have sought Him as well.
This passage explains how Jesus entered the Most Holy Place by His own blood (not by the blood of animals) and obtained eternal redemption for us. He was the perfect sacrifice, acceptable to God and once and for all. His blood cleanses us…not outwardly, but inwardly, from the acts of sin that are punishable by death. His righteousness becomes ours; the life that is impossible for me to live – always having a clean and pure heart, never turning to idols, always being truthful…He lived that perfect life for me. Because I am in Christ, the ancient doors will open for me. If I tried to make them open by being good or doing the best I can, they wouldn’t budge.
5D. What call is given in these verses to the ancient gates and why?
The call that is given is for the gates are for the gates to “lift up your heads”…the ancient doors to be “lifted up”. Similar to Renee, I do find this a bit baffling…gates, heads? My People’s Bible Commentary explains that “When he (the psalmist/David) urges the gates of Jerusalem to open wide so that the King may enter, the psalmist is really inviting all of God’s people to welcome their King with joy when He comes. Jesus comes in glory now through the gospel, and we welcome Him with joy when we receive that Word in faith. … When Jesus returns in glory, He will receive from His people a royal welcome that will last forever.”
E. Using this psalm, write your own prayer of praise to the King of Glory.
Holy Lord, all is Yours…You are the Creator and Sustainer of all. No one is worthy to ascend Your holy hill; we all fall short in our sinful nature…none have a pure heart and clean hands and all lift their souls to idols…forgive me dear Lord, forgive… Thank You, Lord for your mercy…mercy that is new every morning. Thank You, Jesus, for redeeming my soul…for doing for me what I could not do for myself. In Your righteousness You make me worthy; You vindicate me. May I be one that welcomes You with joy and honor; one that provides witness of Your love. Thank You for providing me with faith…thank You that You are always with me. Help me to abide in You. In Jesus’ holy name I pray, Amen.
When I was a little kid we often sang the hymn, “The King of Glory”; the refrain and first verse are burned in my memory…
Refrain: The King of Glory comes, the nation rejoices. Open the gates before Him, lift up your voices.
v. 1: Who is this King of Glory? How should we call Him? Call Him Emmanuel, the promise of ages.
While studying this psalm, I can’t tell you how many times this has ran through my head…:)
Greetings again-
I have read comments and wanted to quickly point out some verses to those for Renee, Susan, Wanda & those who were pondering their comments from 5/27/ – Let me clarify one thing, that is definitely true- The Apostle Paul was sent, by the Glorified Christ to the nations…..Ro 1:5……that is us. We are not Israel. Jesus, while on this earth and his hand-picked disciples spoke of the coming Kingdom of God. The same coming Kingdom that was spoken about by the David and the other OT saints and OT scripture. Acts 1 – Jesus had been with his disciples for 40 days speaking to them about the kingdom of God……they asked, “..is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to ISRAEL?” They were hoping for what all of Israel had been hoping for since OT times…the literal Kingdom for THEM to rule the world. Not us. Israel as close to ruling the world back in the day after being led out by Moses from Egypt, but did not enter the land because they lacked the faith to enter it…they relied on what the “saw” in the land instead of relying on the words of the Lord.
Again, at the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples and great things happened. This sign was, again, for Israel…for THEM to repent…..Acts 3, Peter is addressing Israel (v12). Israel is given another chance and again they are rejecting thru’ the account written in Acts. Saul(Paul) was quite possibly at the forefront against Peter. The stoning of Stephen occurs, lead by Saul (Paul) and then the miraculous happens on the road to Damascus. The chief persecutor of “The Way” is shown unbelievable grace. This is our apostle-for it is his message and mission to speak of God’s transcendent grace to the Nations. Paul, whose name actually means “Pause”, is given something new. God is doing something new. Peter and the other disciples’ mission is for converting Israel, Paul and later Barnabas are presenting the good news of Grace.
His, Paul’s, letters contain these “So thru’ one transgression there resulted condemnation to ALL men, even so thru’ once act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to ALL men” Ro 5:18……..that’s a clear comparison, to show that all men, regardless whether they have made a confession, or said and sinner’s pray, or went to some alter call are justified. I did not ask for condemnation when Adam sinned-in like manner I do not have to ask for justification because of Christ’s righteous act. <<<<<this is the good news of grace!!!!
1 Tim 4:10 – “For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the savior of ALL men, especially of believers!” John, concurs with his writing, in John 2:2 about Jesus being the propitiation for not only us, but for the whole world. Plus, John 1:9.
These verses comfort me and should comfort those who are ‘unsure’ about friends and family who, in our short sighted opinion are not sure about our loved ones destination! The work of Christ is complete. Eph 2:1-9……this should be read every day.
All scripture is for us, but no all scripture is to us. We can’t mix the evangel of Paul with the evangel of Peter, James, Jude, John and Hebrews. The letter of Hebrews is to???? Hebrews! Please…..consider that Paul’s writings are specifically to the nations, the gentiles, us. You mix the two…..and it will only add to confusion. The Christian religion does not understand this!
Hi Marie. I am certainly no authority on scripture, but in Acts 1:8, Jesus tells the disciples that they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on them, and they will be His witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. I take “to the ends of the earth” as the disciples being directed to witness to all including Israel. I looked in my People’s Bible Commetary and it says “Beginning at Jerusalem, they would go out as His witnesses in ever-widening circles. My NIV Study Bible note says, “This verse describes a series of ever-widening circles. … It would begin with devout Jews in Jerusalem and Samaria, spread to the mixed race Samaria, and finally be offered to the Gentiles in the uttermost parts of the earth.” In the ESV Gospel Transformation Bible note it says, “The first item on Jesus’ mind, post-resurrection, is that the apostles wait for the power of the Holy Spirit. This power leads to their being a ‘witness’ in four concentric circles, leading out from Jerusalem. The fact that Jesus notes Samaria shows that the gospel will transcend not just geography (Jerusalem and Judea), but ethnicity as well.”
When Ananias is given instruction by the Lord to go to Saul, the Lord tells Ananias (Acts 9:15), “But the Lord said to him (Ananias), ‘Go, for he (Saul/Paul) is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.”
So I agree that Paul was primarily responsible for sharing the gospel with gentiles, but Paul was also to share the gospel with “kings and the children of Israel” and the disciples were to be witnesses “to the ends of the earth” which included all (including me, I think).
Marie, thanks for giving your perspective on some issues raised this week. I do have concerns, however, about your saying that some of the New Testament is only for Israel and some as only for the Gentiles. Paul always preached in the Jewish synagogues first when he travelled around. When the Jews rejected the message, then he went to the Gentiles in each town. Paul was specifically called to preach the message to the Gentiles, but it was the same message the Israelites needed to hear – the message of grace – saved by grace, not by works or nationality. Paul believed that we are all one in Christ. His writings are not only for the Gentiles, nor are Peter’s writings, and the others writings only for the Jews.
The “Greek” referred to in the verse above is equivalent to “Gentile”, or non-Jew. All Christians are Abraham’s seed, according to these verses.
Marie makes a very good point, I think. We do need to take into account the original intended recipient of Scripture, and discern what God is saying to us. The message may differ because of our ethnicity, culture or personal circumstances. I don’t think Marie is saying that as non-Hebrews we shouldn’t read Hebrews, or that we will not learn from it. That’s how I understood ‘all scripture is for us’. We do need to take into account that it was written first of all for Hebrew readers, and that will make a difference to how we read it. It’s worth asking “What did this mean to the original listeners?” and also “What does God want me to learn from this text?”
Kerryn — this is the part of Marie’s comment with which I would agree. It is important to ask What did it mean then and what does it mean now?
It is important, for example, to realize slavery in biblical times was radically different than the horror of American slavery — and was in no way an approval of the shame of that. But there is an application, in that employees are to submit and respect employers — for slaves then chose bondage for a temporary period, and voluntarily, to get out of debt.
I do have some concern, however, with Marie — and have asked her to e-mail me privately that I might know more about her.
Hi Marie, thanks for taking the time to ponder and reflect and give your perspective. I am not sure I understand this from your post, so am hoping you will help me to better understand what you have written here: “…all men, regardless of whether they have made a confession, or said and sinner’s pray, or went to some alter call are justified. I did not ask for condemnation when Adam sinned-in like manner I do not have to ask for justification because of Christ’s righteous act.” I am not disputing that a person doesn’t have to walk an aisle in an altar call, or pray a “formula”-type prayer, but are you saying that justification is applied to all men based on Christ’s work…regardless of whether or not they believe in Jesus, or whether or not they repent and turn from their sin (I am not saying that a believer never sins, but I mean living a life of habitual sin or even practicing evil without remorse or regret or any conviction). It seems as if you are saying that a person can live any way they want, with or without any regard to God-acknowledging Him as Lord or not-and in the end will go to heaven because all men are justified. That is what I’m not clear on.
Hi Marie,
I have e-mailed you asking you to write me and tell me a bit more about yourself — but it may have gotten lost in cyberspace. I’d like to know your denomination, for example. You are new here, so I don’t know you, and you have a strong agenda about which you feel passionate. I welcome diversity, but right now I don’t have a peace about approving your second submission. It might help if I knew more about you and we could communicate privately. Write to me at comments@deebrestin.com
I could be mistaken but Marie’s viewpoint sounds like Universalism to me..I found this site to be helpful in regard to 1 Tim 4:10: http://www.gotquestions.org/universalism.html ..to those of you who may be wondering.
Meant to say at the end, all scripture is for us but NOT all is to us. had a typo there 🙂
6. Share notes and comments.
Psalms 1-19 are creation psalms associated with Genesis. Psalm 19 is the climax of creation.
Psalm 20…the emphasis/focus shifts to the fulfillment of the Genesis 3 rescue plan. Psalm 20 is prophetic of Jesus.
Psalm 22…when Jesus quotes v. 1 of psalm 22 from the cross, Reeves believes that the entire psalm is on His mind. Psalm 22 is accurate of Jesus’ suffering, the suffering of the anointed one.
The psalms read together provide a context for seeing the psalms as Messianic.
Psalm 23…”restores my soul” is speaking of resurrection (restore my soul from death of psalm 22).
“anoint my head with oil” is speaking of the anointed one.
Jesus will return to “dwell in the house of the Lord forever”.
Psalm 23 is often read as a psalm of comfort for believers, but the real comfort is in knowing the that this has been fulfilled by the resurrection.
Psalm 24…ascension; Jesus is the King of Glory, the Lord of Hosts.
Again…”The King of Glory” runs through my mind…I hear it being sung in my mind when Reeves asks, “Who is this King of Glory”.
5. D. Patrick Reardon comments on the closing (Psalm 24:7-10) “The King of glory comes to the entrance of heaven with the blood of conflict still fresh upon Him and a kind of dialogue takes place as the angels call for the opening of the portcullis at the approach of the returning Warrior.” What call is given in these verses to the ancient gates and why?
The ancient gates are told to “Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors.” (Another cross-ref. is Isaiah 26:2, “Open the gates that the righteous nation may enter, the nation that keeps faith.”)
The gates are told to open so that “The King of glory may come in.” The idea that gates/doors surrounded a city to protect it. I am thinking that while the king was away in battle, the gates would’ve been kept shut until his return. When the king returns in triumph and victory, the look-out would have seen the procession returning and called for the gates to open wide for the king and his men.
E. Using this psalm, write your own prayer of praise to the King of Glory.
Lord Jesus, You are the Possessor of Heaven and Earth. You founded and established the world and You sustain it with Your Power and wisdom, and everything belongs rightfully to You. Lord Jesus, only You are worthy to ascend the hill of the Lord, and only You are worthy to stand in His holy place. Only Your hands are clean and Your heart pure; there is no shadow of turning within You. You have received every blessing from Your Father and have been exalted to the highest place. I can only imagine Your entry into heaven, when You ascended after Your work here on earth was finished, after You were our Substitute. How triumphant it must have been for the King of glory to go through those gates! So who am I, that You are even mindful of me? That You want to share your Kingdom with me? Thank You for wanting me to be with You where You are, and for making that possible. I had no way to get to You; You had to come to rescue me.
7. What is your take-away and why.
I’ve been thinking much of David’s celebratory worship when the ark of the covenant was brought back to Jerusalem, Michal’s condemnation of David’s celebratory actions, and Satan likely being the catalyst for Michal’s irritation and dissension. I know that we are not to think too much about Satan, but should also not discount him…I am pondering Satan’s involvement in much of the conflict, evil, etc. of this world; his involvement in my own dissatisfaction, conflicts, irritations, etc. He so subtly moves in…it is really quite frightening, BUT I have a Lord who is greater and stronger, one defends me, one who won the battle over sin, who redeemed my sinful soul, etc. I am going to review my weapons for spiritual warfare to make sure I am adequately covered (i.e., doing my part).
“The King of Glory” is such a sweet memory of childhood worship. I never connected it with Psalm 24, but now it will never be separate from Psalm 24 in my mind and heart.
Mike Reeves:
Nanci’s notes are perfect so no need to re-do them with mine. 🙂 What stood out to me was:
1. Psalm 23 is a Psalm of comfort yes but more so a comfrot because This is a fact about the Messiah which is a comfort to believers-this is real comfort. So,in verse 3 “he restores my soul”, brings it back from what? Not hard times..but in context it is from death-resurrection. My comfort in hard times is in the Gospel!
2. All things are his by virtue of creation AND conquest. He is the Lord of Hosts.
C. What do you learn from verse 6? Compare this to Hebrews 9:11-14 and explain how we too may enter in, and why the ancient gates will open for those who have sought Him as well. I really liked the amplified Bible For these verses and they helped me understand better.
I found this on the gates. I don’t recognize a lot of the names but found it interesting to explore the meaning of “lift up your heads o gates”.
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/treasury-of-david/psalms-24-7.html
D. What call is given in these verses to the ancient gates and why? When I first read this Psalm I wondered if the gates applied to the gates in our heart. i am struck by what Reardon says. What an appropriate picture of Christ, fresh from victory in the ultimate battle, coming upon the gates shouting for them to be opened. Gates were shut to keep kingdoms safe. There was no more threat because Christ had defeated death. I wonder if this applies to the saints “coming home” as well? The gates of heaven finally open and welcoming those that had sought Him over the generations? And so, too, in my heart – why do I shut the gates of my heart?! It is safe, the victory is won! (Though I do recognize that we have to guard against the evil one and his folly but we can open wide and unhesitantly to the Victor.)
Thanks for this resource Jill!
Thanks, Jill for the resource on “gates”.
Beautifully said, Jill.
Thanks, Jill. I appreciate the link — read it early today. Helpful!
I love this, Jill.
C. What do you learn from verse 6? Compare this to Hebrews 9:11-14 and explain how we too may enter in, and why the ancient gates will open for those who have sought Him as well.
Those of us who seek Him will be blessed. We are bought with His blood, cleansed so that we could too enter heaven and be with Him forever.
D. Patrick Reardon comments on the closing (Psalm 24:7-10) “The King of Glory comes to the entrance of heaven with the blood of conflict still fresh upon Him (cf. Isaiah 63:1-6; Revelation 19:13) and a kind of dialogue takes place as the angels call for the opening of the portcullis at the approach of the returning Warrior.” What call is given in these verses to the ancient gates and why?
The call is to open the gates and let Jesus through.
E. Using this psalm, write your own prayer of praise to the King of Glory.
Dear Jesus, Thank You for the many blessings you have bestowed on me and my family. I don’t always understand why things are as they are. However I know Your hand is on each trial we face. You love us; that was proven when You gave up Your body here on Earth. “….Hands that healed nations, stretched out on a tree, and took the nails for me….” (Glorious Day, Casting Crowns) Thank You for setting the example. Thank You for wearing the crimson robe, and opening the heavenly gates, so I can be saved and come through those gates too. Amen.
Forgive me for my time away from the blog. Last days of contract for the year, personal struggles etc kept me occupied. But I am grateful I can come back here and find refreshment for my soul.
My take away:
D. How does Arthur Pink’s comment help you understand opposition you may be facing?
The “human oppositionist” is not my enemy; it is the Devil working through my mind’s interpretation of an encounter with a person. Why, if I see it this way, I will not be angry, vindictive or doubtful of the person. I can make it a serendipity for my soul. For after all, whatever enlightens me of the goodness and sovereignty of God is a “pleasant surprise”! God’s perspective becomes my perspective.
And just for curiosity sake, I look up the meaning of serendipity again and found from Wikipedia (our former librarian tells me this is not a dependable site; forgive me, Barry for this one time only J) that “One aspect of Walpole’s original definition of serendipity, often missed in modern discussions of the word, is the need for an individual to be “sagacious” enough to link together apparently innocuous facts in order to come to a valuable conclusion.”
And as I read that it came to me also that even the forming of a valuable conclusion (a sagacious being can get prideful of a light bulb moment) is brought about by the Spirit of God. GOD is above my intellectual musings. All enlightenment of the truth is from Him.
Ernema, Thanks! Your response about Arthur Pink’s comment helped me think straight!haha …I don’t recommend Wikipedia to students (or at least, I sometimes tell them what NOT to do with it), but I do use it myself for a quick reference 😉
My take-aways:
This process of listing my take-aways is always very difficult for me. I think that is because I am changing due to what I am learning on this blog, and sometimes the changes are subtle and I hardly realize the change is made until I get to the end — then it hits me — I have been changed! For instance, I have been way too “familiar” with Psalm 23. Even so, I have over the years derived much comfort from the psalm. However, now my visual field is expanded and I can see so much more richness in this shepherd psalm that even predicts the resurrection!! I particularly appreciate Dee recommending W.Phillip Keller’s book A Shepherd looks at Psalm 23. I wish I could have put my hands on it sooner, but thankfully it is a short book. Some of you may recall I had briefly mentioned (when I was venting one day about all my “responsibilities”), that I was going to be leading a worship service at the Rescue Mission. That occurred last night — it went well, praise God! You may be interested to know the theme I chose for the worship service at this homeless shelter was “The Lord is my Shepherd!” 🙂
I am touched by ‘all of the above’, Deanna. Such a blessing to read your comments in your takeaway.
Deanna — this delights me — and I’m sure that message blessed those at the Rescue Mission.
I have just jumped in here this week after finding the blog, and hope that I may continue to study with you. That’s assuming you all understand my accent? I can write slower if it’s a problem.
This study has refocused my prayers. The theme of these psalms is God – who he is, what he is doing in the world and in David’s life.
The flowing theme between these two bookends is this Lord of Glory.
He is our Portion in Psalm 16,
our Savior in Psalm 17,
our Fortress in Psalm 18,
our Bridegroom who comes forth like the rising sun in Psalm 19,
our Anointed One in Psalm 20,
our Exalted One in Psalm 21,
our Crucified One in Psalm 22,
our Shepherd in Psalm 23,
and our Ascended One in Psalm 24!
Wow! That summary really highlighted the difference between David’s prayers and mine. Too often, my prayers are a bit like a shopping list, and God does want us to present our requests to him. But when I make those requests the focus of prayer, I’ve missed the point. Prayer is about God and about building my relationship with him, not about getting stuff. I look forward to continuing to study the Psalms.
Kerryn — it is a delight to have you — and yes, I can understand your accent! 🙂 Welcome welcome welcome! We are delighted.
Saturday takeaway: I knew at the beginning of the week that this would be a hard one for me to be involved. And I sure have felt the loss as this study blog has become such an important part of my life. I had out of town company twice and two funerals this week. The first was nearly unbearably sad as a friend I have known for 20 years but was just beginning to get close to, since her cancer diagnosis… lost her battle. She was diagnosed less than a year ago. I do believe she is with the Lord now but my heart is heavy for her husband. They also lost their only daughter to cancer 11 years ago at age 20…..and at her request adopted, not one but three girls from Russian orphanages . The girls are 21 now. They were an extraordinary couple and team and I can’t imagine the loss he is feeling. The second funeral was this morning…..and it was for a dear 91 year old aunt. She has been longing for heaven for a very long time now and I could only rejoice that she is with our Lord and reunited with my own parents and so many, many loved ones. And that she is in the presence of the Savior she loved and served so graciously. So…..personally, I have felt God’s hand and I have felt my own weakness. I am exhausted. Still hoping to venture a little deeper into this psalm and study. I can’t remember a time when the scriptures weren’t an important part of my life, but these studies have completely renewed and refreshed me in a way I haven’t experienced in a long time. I’ve had some ‘battles’ this week of another sort also and I know so many of you have as well. May the peace of God that transcends all understanding guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Wanda. I’m so very sorry for the loss of your friend so suddenly. What a sweet thing for their daughter to suggest to her parents as she was dying….and they adopted 3 instead of just one! You had this for prayer on our private Facebook page….and I still lift her husband and their 3 daughters up in prayer.
So thankful your Aunt is with Jesus now…as she had prayed for!
Thank you so much, Joyce. Bless you.
Take-away: Some difficult topics for me this week. My take-aways are that God is good and Jesus is the King of Glory who has won the war. Ps 24 gives me hope. Lifting my head to worship the King takes my focus off daily concerns which are so draining. IT IS GOOD TO WORSHIP HIM:)