IT’S FUN TO WATCH THE REACTION OF THE SHOPPERS
WHEN SURPRISED BY A FLASH MOB SINGING THE HALLELUJAH CHORUS.
SOME ARE DELIGHTED, SOME DISTURBED, SOME CONFUSED…
WILL IT BE THE SAME ON THAT GREAT DAY WHEN JESUS RETURNS?
WHEN PSALM 47 BEGINS, IT SEEMS
A SIMPLE PSALM OF PRAISE,
BUT THERE IS SO MUCH MORE GOING ON
AS WE GLIMPSE IN VERSE 2.
VERSE 5 TELL US:
NOTICE THERE IS A SHOUT, A TRUMPET, AND THE PRESENCE OF GOD.
DEREK KIDNER POINTS OUT THAT THIS IS A CLEAR ALLUSION TO 2 SAMUEL WHERE ONCE
THERE WAS A SHOUT, A TRUMPET, AND THE PRESENCE OF GOD
So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouting and with the sound of the horn.
2 Samuel 6:14-15
*
BUT DO YOU SEE THE PROPHECY?
ONE DAY THERE WILL BE A SHOUT, A TRUMPET,
AND THE LORD HIMSELF WILL COME
ONE DAY HEAVEN AND EARTH WILL BE JOINED. THE KING OF
ALL THE WORLD,
AND ALL THE PRINCES
AND ALL THE PEOPLES
WILL LOOK UPON JESUS AS KING!
ALL ENEMIES WILL BE CONQUERED AND
HERE, KIDNER SAYS, PSALM 46:10 IS FULFILLED,
“WHEN WARS WILL CEASE.”
THE PRINCE OF PEACE WILL BE OUR KING.
AND HE WILL REIGN FOREVER AND EVER.
PSALM 47 IS A FULFILLMENT OF MANY PROMISES.
THIS WORLD IS SO HARD, AND WE GRIEVE,
BUT NOT AS THOSE WHO HAVE NO HOPE.
OUR OWN MARY IS IN A BATTLE FOR HER LIFE WITH CANCER,
AND YET, SHE HAS PEACE.
OUR OWN LAURA HAS SUCH A CHALLENGING FAMILY SITUATION,
AND YET SHE HAS JOY.
OUR OWN NATALIE WISHES HER BABY COULD TELL HER
WHY SHE IS CONSTANTLY CRYING,
AND YET SHE LOOKS FORWARD TO THE DAY WHEN THERE WILL BE NO MORE TEARS, AND NO MORE PAIN.
OUR OWN DIANE RECENTLY LOST HER DAD, AND SHE GRIEVES,
YET NOT AS THOSE WHO HAVE NO HOPE.
THERE IS SO MUCH HOPE IN THIS PSALM!
WATCH THIS VIDEO PRESENTATION TO PREPARE YOUR HEART FOR THIS STUDY.
At the beginning of the above video it says this psalm was possibly written by Hezekiah or Isaiah. I’m not sure where this person got that, but I do want to say something about the authorship of these Psalms. The preposition at the beginning of each of these eight psalms of Korah we are studying this summer could be translated of (ESV) or for (KJV) (the sons of Korah). It could be therefore that they wrote them or that they were written for them. Spurgeon feels it is the latter, basing that on the verse at the end of book 2 of the Psalms which says: “The prayers of David, the son of Jesse, are ended.” (Psalm 72:20) This is a strong argument that David wrote these psalms for the Sons of Korah. All of their history is still significant, if David wrote them for them to sing. I am being persuaded that I was wrong to think they were written by the Sons of Korah. Forgive me for assuming that for I realize I do not know that!
Sunday
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
Monday-Thursday Bible Study
2. Read Psalm 47 in its entirety aloud and share anything that quickens you and why.
3. Read Psalm 47:1-4
A. What emotions do you see in verses 1 and 2 and why would both be significant for the sons of Korah?
B. Why would both emotions be significant for you?
C. What reasons for “fear” are given in verses 2-3?
D. What truth do you learn in verse 4?
4. In verse 5, how do you see this fulfilled in history and also pointing to a later fulfillment?
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
A. What parallels do you see?
B. What hope does this give you?
6. Read Psalm 47:5-9
A. How are you fulfilling the command of verse 6 and why do you think God sees this as important?
B. The KjV translates verse 7 as: For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with
understanding. That is because the root word for “with a psalm” has to do with wisdom or
understanding, like 1 Cor. 14:15 “I will sing with my mind.” I would like you to look at the above video
of this psalm again and “sing with your mind.” Share anything that quickens you.
C. Verses 8-9 point to the day when Christ will reign over the earth, and all the peoples who are the
people of the God of Abraham (meaning both true Jews and those grafted in) will gather. This is the
bride of Christ, made up of every tribe and nation, every ethnicity, and all at peace with one another.
This is the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would be like the sands of
the sea. Ponder this truth with your heart and your mind and share your thoughts.
FRIDAY: 3 MINUTES FROM JOHN CALVIN ON PSALM 47 (HEAVY BUT SHORT AND I AM CONFIDENT THE SPIRIT CAN HELP YOU GLEAN SOMETHING!)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjKX18OwJdY
7. What did you glean?
SATURDAY
8. What is your take-a-way and why?
70 comments
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
At first read, my stand out gem is the final paragraph of the introduction. In earlier weeks we had spoken of how ultimately the authorship of every word of the Word is God’s…..and not being able to know for certain who authored these Psalms does not take away anything from how profound and eternal they are! Psalm 47 fits seamlessly into the whole of Scripture as it points us with great delight to the Kingly Sovereignty of our God and urges us to join in the dance of joy!! It looks back in remembrance at His great faithfulness to His chosen people (v. 4&5) and forward with great anticipation to a time when all true believers will gather forever and praise God unhindered by sin and sorrow. There’s a sweet poignancy in the possibility that these Psalms were written by David FOR the Sons of Korah….but in the end, “The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword. piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Heb 4:12….another book of the Bible whose authorship remains mysterious!)
Once again, in humbly bringing before us the possibility that your previous presentation of the authorship of these Psalms might need to be tweaked or at least examined more closely, you have shown us your teachable heart Dee. Knowing how hard you labor over the Word it is invaluable to me to see this quality of humble teachability in you! 🙂 There’s no place that is more precious than in our teachers within the body of Christ…..but I think that the principle is so obvious in our daily lives….the BEST teachers are always learning, humble and able to be corrected and to grow. For many years when I taught piano I had an INCREDIBLE teacher myself. He was VERY hard on me and pushed me relentlessly….and my best and most vibrant teaching came out of that season. I look at my daughter’s years of teaching riding lessons….she has an amazing ability to see all of the moving pieces of horse and rider….and to anticipate what’s coming! She is incredibly intuitive but for many, many years she had a fantastic instructor who is still today a life mentor to her…..and I can see before my eyes how so much of what she has to offer has come out of her willingness to be molded and shaped and honed by her mentor. 🙂 Ok – I went way far afield here, but I so celebrate that the Lord brought you and your gift of teaching into my life over these past years…..the hardest years of my life, to be sure! Also…the most hopeful. 🙂 Thank you, thank you Dee.
Thank you, Jackie. Yes, He is the author! I loved your description of your daughter and riding horses…
Jackie–I’m finally getting here today, and after reading Dee’s words, I continued reading with your post and it just adds to the richness of what Dee has shared. I love your emphasis on the Word, being God’s Word, and on it’s power, regardless of the author God used to pen it…“.but in the end, “The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword. piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” –AMEN! Love too how you tied in your thoughts as a piano teacher, and watching Jes as a horse riding instructor…the beauty that comes from a “willingness to be molded and shaped and honed by her mentor.” WOW.
So beautiful Jackie
What stands out to you from the above and why?
That Jesus will reign-One day heaven and earth will be joined and He will reign and will be King of the WORLD!! All the princes and all the people will look upon Him as King.
I am thinking on Psalm 47..the joy and shouting to GOD with cries of joy. When I think back to Joni’s video from last week-that she grieves but not as those who have no hope-and she said, That although it seems like our sufferings are splash overs of hell-the beauty is that the splash overs of heaven are when you find Jesus in the splash overs of Hell. Suffering is an opportunity to taste the future as we press into Him, and He is our Joy and He empowers us to trust Him. And others get to see Him in us as we press in. What a privilege. Yet oh- the future-wow-It will be joyous singing-we will be home, and He will be King over all! Joni will soar!! No wheelchair, no cancer yet most fulfilling is that she will be face to face!! Can you imagine our countenance when we are like Him? When He has removed Baal from our lips-When we are singing, clapping with Joy and are face to face? Dancing before Him like David but freer even! I can’t help but think of no more tears, no more striving but most desiring is that we get to gaze on His loveliness and we will be full! He and us!! :)))
I agree with Jackie that there is a sweet poignancy that these were written by David for the Sons of Korah..and so glad Dee picked up on that.
Rebecca, how I love your saying about removing Baal from our lips. It reminds me of my chorus director saying during rehearsal of Mendelssohn’s Elijah, “how come the devil gets all the good music?” The chorus at that point was singing, “Baal, we cry to thee; Baal, we cry to thee; hear and answer us.”
Chris-yes isn’t it beautiful that He will? 🙂 I hate that that struggle is still there-that I am still broken-yet glad that in the future He will completely remove any bend toward anything or anyone else but Him.
Oh…and I can’t help but think back to Reeves sermon too..that His loveliness will make us cry out for joy..His glorious presence will make us sing and dance!!
Rebecca! Jill had privately shared with me the impact of a particular Reeves’ message entitled “Reformation of the Heart”….perhaps Dee offered that here in the past? If so, at any rate, I missed it! As soon as I saw the reference to it, as I shared with Jill, it was like a “tuning fork” in my soul. I just knew that it was going to be a significant teaching integrating the streams the Lord has been pouring out into me for several years – and so it was! Time and again I have been coming back to the very simple Psalm 27:4 and the “one thing” that David desired of the Lord….and to Isaiah 53 and the suffering servant, Messiah, Jesus. Oh, and so MUCH more! But yes, Reeves’ teaching is monumental in it’s impact isn’t it? I believe God is so glorified and exalted in his teachings! Amen! Loved your “splash overs” reminders and ponderings from Joni as well! 🙂
Rebecca — I love how you are bringing in messages we have heard!
Rebecca, Jackie – can you please give me more information about Reeves? I looked on You Tube for Reeves, Reformation of the Heart, and found nothing. I don’t know anything about Reeves. Thank you! I love these studies, Dee!
Miriam–here is the link to Mike Reeves Reformation and the Heart:
http://www.theologynetwork.org/unquenchable-flame/the-reformation-in-britain/reformation-and-the-heart.htm
ALL of his sermons are excellent!
Thank you Lizzy, for being right on top of this for Miriam! Miriam, this particular teaching is about 45 minutes long…but took me twice that to listen as I kept pausing all throughout to take notes! Maybe somewhat oddly, it was a HUGE encouragement to me as to those in my life who do not know Christ as well. I pray this teaching will enrich your soul, your walk with Jesus! 🙂 So grateful that Dee introduced us to this teacher and that Jill referenced this particular session. I must agree with you, I “love these studies!”
Miriam, So glad you have that link! Thank you Lizzy! If you can find the one he did on The Song-oh my. Here is the link to that but it is a bit hard to hear: http://www.theologynetwork.org/unquenchable-flame/the-reformation-in-britain/getting-stuck-in/the-love-of-christ-in-song-of-songs.htm If you google his name you will find more. 🙂
What stands out to you from the above and why?
This may seem strange, but the word “will” stands out to me! I counted it 9 times in the body of Dee’s lesson (before the questions)—and it’s significance to me, is that there is a certainty, a promise, a guarantee—He WILL come back, He WILL reign…and THAT is why we have HOPE.
2. Read Psalm 47 in its entirety aloud and share anything that quickens you and why.
I like how vs. 3 emphasizes His power over our enemies, and that He does the battle for us: “He subdued peoples under us, and nations under our feet.”
And I love vs. 4: “He chose our heritage for us, the pride of Jacob whom he loves”—we are His and He has chosen us, He has adopted us as His own, given us a new heritage, under Him.
Lizzy-not strange at all! That is huge-that should melt us for He is perfectly faithful in keeping His promises..yes He WILL.
I hadn’t even noticed how often I used will! Yet it flows from the truth of the text!
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Definitely, God is the author of the Scripture. I am so blessed by your teachable spirit, Dee.
I just love how Psalm 47 is tied to 2 Samuel 6:14-15, and then to Jesus Christ’s return in the New Testament, especially in 1 Thessalonians 4:16. It is true what they say that signs of Jesus are throughout all of Scripture.
Please forgive me everyone, when I joined this study I had high expectations of participating on a daily basis. I have fallen so very far from my goal. Although my participation has been limited, I have gotten so much out of this study, and I am grateful for the time everyone puts in and the openness with which you all share.
What stood out the most, all the very hard things that so many members of this group are going through, and the juxtaposition of the hope declared with much praise to God’s glory in this Psalm.
Dawndrums, your participation here is just pitch perfect! I have gleaned so much from much of what you have offered here in the past weeks. This is a place of grace and Dee has often responded to us that we should just participate as we can, when we can. There really is no “right way” to do this. A couple of years ago the responses on this blog were an absolute flood…..Dee had actually requested at that time that all of us ONLY answer the questions publicly that struck a special chord with us or were “golden” so to speak. Many were feeling absolutely overwhelmed in trying to read through all of the entries (300-400 if I am recalling correctly!) and getting entirely bogged down and discouraged. Even though that was a response to a crisis, I’ve continued on with that pattern to a degree. I do read through and try to work through all of the questions each week…..but don’t necessarily answer each question publicly. Also – it is SO important to “keep first things first” and each of us have worlds of face to face flesh and blood people in our daily lives! Family, church family, work contacts, friends…..and the list goes on. I would hope that none of us are pouring out our true selves here and neglecting to do the same in our day to day – though this blog CAN BE a perfect stepping stone to more courageous living out the gospel face to face!! Love having you here Dawndrums!
Dawn — we are glad to have you for whatever time you can give!
Dawndrums, I want to encourage you that just your short time here has encouraged me this morning with all the very hard things that so many members of this group are going through, and the juxtaposition of the hope declared with much praise to God’s glory in this Psalm.
2. He chose our inheritance for us. Not what culture says I should want, or even what I think, but He has chosen for me. If He can subdue nations, then He can deal with my urges and appetites, and that gives me great hope.
3. A. Emotions in verses 1-2- I see joy and awe. Joy would not be the natural reaction for these sons of Korah to what had happened to their father. Awe, because only God can open the earth to selectively swallow some and leave others behind. It is significant for me because while I have a deep contentment and peace, joy is not an emotion others would describe me as having. Nor necessarily awe, though intellectually I certainly stand in awe of God. A renewal of both these emotions would be a good thing for me.
Mary – “if He can subdue nations, then He can deal with my urges and appetites, and that gives me great hope.” Yes! Great reminder…..I think His most marvelous of works is how He gets inside our HEARTS and changes us from the inside out!! Rebecca often uses the phrase “He melts me….” and I think that’s apt! So good – thanks for that!
Mary B. I am with Jackie..If He can subdue nations, then He can deal with my urges and appetites, and that gives me great hope.This was meaningful to me this morning-thank you! So glad you are here.
What stands out to me? It is the child dancing who brings to mind that we all should have the joy of the Lord as a little child. Yes, we are so blessed and should rejoice and praise the Lord! for He is an awesome God!
What stands out to you from the above and why?
What stands out is the Hallelujah Chorus! Oh how I love that piece of music! I would love to be in the midst of the flashmob singing it! I would absolutely enjoy each second of their beautiful chords! Oh how I hope this will be the same feeling I get when Christ comes for His bride!
So funny you should mention this Dee. My husband was just talking with Diane and her husband about the time we took our son to a performance of Handels Messiah a few years ago at a local church. (We are traveling in Canada and were so fortunate to meet Diane and her husband for dinner a few nights ago) It was lovely!
Also, I think it’s funny to listen to this piece at this time of year ? but oh so fun as well! It seems a little out of place, but yet appropriate for any time really.
And, of course, thank you Dee for teaching me something I didn’t know…the “for” the sons or the “by” the sons question. I never knew any of those suppositions, and now I can ponder along with the rest of you who know so much more about the bible than I do.
Laura — it thrilled me that you make the effort to meet Diane. I remember how wonderful it was when you came to Ohio, bringing Sara, and teaching us a song. You are a joy. I do think meeting face to face helps cement these friendships.
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2. Read Psalm 47 in its entirety aloud and share anything that quickens you and why.
That it is centered on Him which melts me for my life is going by fast and then He comes. This passage just melts me into Him further now-today-instead of feasting on my fears, or comforts-He is my refuge and my comfort..In breathing this passage in He gives me the desire to draw nearer and will strengthen me for whatever faces me today-His Word is living and active-He is the Word! :)) for I know today isn’t “ruler of all”-He is. So whatever internal battle I will have today-which I will have-I can run to Him and press in and trust, and remember that this job, this hard thing, this circumstance isn’t my life-He is.
“This job, this hard thing, this circumstance isn’t my life — He is.” Words to live by.
2. Read Psalm 47 in its entirety aloud and share anything that quickens you and why.
I kept coming back to the first two verses – and reverence for the Lord. For “He is the Lord, the Most High, is to be feared, a great king over all the earth.” And this reverence for the Lord is not always a quiet thing! “Clap your hands, …shout to God with loud songs of joy!” “all peoples” – oh how blessed we are to be included in the Abrahamic promise!!! This joyful, exhuberant, reverent praising of my God makes me think so much of John 7: 37-39, for it is in drinking in Christ that rivers of living water will flow from my heart! As I drink in Christ, the Spirit within my heart begins to clap for joy, to sing praises to God, to overflow the banks of my life!! What a wonder He is!!
2. Reading through the Psalm the part that quickens me is in verses 8 and 9:Our God reigns! Yes, all the kings of the earth belong to God. As the prophets announced the Gentiles would turn to the Lord and share the kingdom with Israel. We look forward to this vision being fulfilled. And it is partially fulfilled as Jewish believers come to saving faith!
3. The emotions expressed in verses 2 and 3 are joy and gratitude! These 2 components of worship would be important to the sons of Korah as they served in the Tabernacle and in the Temple, later.
B. The emotion of joy reflects my gratitude to the Lord as I come before him with thankfulness for all his blessings in my life in the past and in the present and I know will be part of my future. These emotions are encouraging to me as I struggle with the disappointments I have recently experienced when I have been let down by family and church family.
I remember the delight in singing
Joy to the World, the Lord is come, Let earth receive her king. Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing!
No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground, He comes to make His blessings flow far as the curse is found.
C. The reason for fear in verses 2-3 is that his enemies are put down, God is all-powerful. Because of the sins in this world and nation, there will be a time when those who support these evils are put down. How will that hurt others? These may be happening in families and in churches and people will be torn apart by the intervention.
4.Verse 5 is fulfilled in history when Christ ascended after his resurrection and I see this as a future ascension as well in the New Jerusalem. I am praising the Lord for our future hope that is beyond my understanding and without words that I can express.
He rules the world with grace and truth and makes the nations prove the glories of his righteousness, and wonders of his love.
Shirley — love how you went through verse by verse and also personal. Yes — Joy to the World — a song of the 2nd and not 1st coming!
2. Read Psalm 47 in its entirety aloud and share anything that quickens you and why.
This is praise for our Lord; excitement for his protection over us.
The line “God has gone up with a shout…” Reminds me of Jesus – His ascension! What a shout!
What stands out to you from the above and why?
The flash mob scene in the food court, with everyone singing the Hallelujah Chorus, stood out to me. I had actually seen this video once before when it circulated around Christmas time. However, it had enriched meaning for me seeing it again. The thought occurred to me that I don’t recall seeing choruses from other religions singing joyfully like that. Perhaps the joy and singing is really closely linked with Christianity! Only Christianity has the gospel, which is the subject of most hymns and choruses. I didn’t observe one grumpy face in the crowd at the food court (I realize, of course, they could have been edited out). However, it seemed as if the joy was contagious. Other religions put on demonstrations for their faith, but they are not joyful choruses. In fact, sometimes they are violent demonstrations. How much better it is to sing the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah!!
Amen!
Great observations about other religions not having the joy as they don’t have the gospel. How could they sing for joy?
4. God in Jesus ‘ascended’, or went up, to Jerusalem while the people shouted praise to Him. It went so far that the Pharisees called on Him to make them tone it down. But Jesus said if the people were silent, the very rocks would cry out. And then, of course, Jesus ascended to heaven after His resurrection. I don’t know what to say about the trumpets for past fulfillment. Presently, Christ is enthroned on high literally, but also figuratively on our praises. In the future He will put all nations under his feet and rule the earth. Then He will have ascended totally.
5. 1 Thess parallels … Ah, the trumpets! Maybe they are only heard in heaven? The Lord comes for us, meeting us part way and then ascending with us to heaven. What hope does it give me? It thrills my soul, and I don’t want to wait! It affirms that I don’t believe just on paper or for the here and now only, but for eternity!
3. Read Psalm 47:1-4 A. What emotions do you see in verses 1 and 2 and why would both be significant for the sons of Korah?
In vs. 1- rejoicing, praise and in vs. 2, fear of the Lord
B. Why would both emotions be significant for you?
Both emotions seem dependent on the other—true praise includes a holy reverance, fear, of all that He is, and as I recognize all that He is, I want to praise Him more. I praise Him that in His mighty greatness He protects, rescues, loves me; but I fear Him in His mighty power, His holiness, His so far beyond-me ness! He is both unspeakably “above” me, which deserves my fear of Him and yet He is unspeakably near to me, for which I praise Him.
C. What reasons for “fear” are given in verses 2-3?
He is the Most High King, over all the earth, and by His power, He slays our enemies. His power is greater than all others.
D. What truth do you learn in verse 4?
I love verse 4. He has chosen me, given me a new heritage.
3. Read Psalm 47:1-4
A. What emotions do you see in verses 1 and 2 and why would both be significant for the sons of Korah?
Joy and elation is what I read in verse 1. In verse 2 it seems they are fearful of the Lord.
The sons would be disturbed by the events that occurred to their family, and would need lifting up. They would probably be depressed and scared, but also they knew they listened and were saved, so they would have been thankful as well.
3. Read Psalm 47:1-4
A. What emotions do you see in verses 1 and 2 and why would both be significant for the sons of Korah?
In verse 1 they are shouting for joy and clapping their hands to God. In verse 2 they are exhorted to be in awe of Him for they have seen and experienced His wrath. God will protect them and provide for them with His wondrous presence-and He will enact justice-whoa! So who or what could be more worthy of our awe, our attention and affections?
B. Why would both emotions be significant for you?
Joy and excitement, yet fear and trembling-and I don’t know but I don’t think the fear is being afraid of but being in awe of to the point you are on your face-no words…I think of Job when God asked him questions-he said “Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you? I lay my hand on my mouth.”
5
Good example of “fear” from Job.
B. Why would both emotions be significant for you?
I’m not sure why these two emotions (joy and fear) would be “significant” for me…I like the feeling of joy, however I don’t like the feeling of fear. Fear does keep you “in check” though, it doesn’t allow you to drift too far from what you should be doing I suppose? In other words, fearing God is a good thing because it makes me behave! It gives me a reason to stay on the straight and narrow.
C. What reasons for “fear” are given in verses 2-3?
The Lord is a great king over all the earth and “subdues” people.
D. What truth do you learn in verse 4?
The Lord is responsible for us; we were made in His image and He has the plan for us.
2. Read Psalm 47 in its entirety aloud and share anything that quickens you and why.
I was impressed with expression after expression of how great and awesome God is, and that He is King over everyone. It doesn’t matter what your status in life, God is still over each and every one of us. Even the kings of the earth are all under God’s control, and they belong to Him.
3. Read Psalm 47:1-4
A. What emotions do you see in verses 1 and 2 and why would both be significant for the sons of Korah?
Shouting, clapping, crying, and joy! If the sons of Korah were leading the people in worship, perhaps these would be like directions for them.
B. Why would both emotions be significant for you?
Okay, I may have been a little off on my answer to “A,” Now I see there should only be two emotions. Well, that would need to be crying and joy, I would think. My Life Application Study Bible says that this psalm was probably written about the time of the Assyrian Invasion of Judah by Sennacherib. So crying would be appropriate, yet they were aware that God was still in charge and His presence was still with them. This psalm was probably written to keep the these ideas before the people.
C. What reasons for “fear” are given in verses 2-3?
God’s power is awesome. He was able to subdue nations.
D. What truth do you learn in verse 4?
That the Israelites (descendants of Jacob) were God’s chosen people.
4. In verse 5, how do you see this fulfilled in history and also pointing to a later fulfillment?
God’s chosen people have had a very “roller coaster” history – but they have, over all, had staying power. “The Lord amid the sounding of trumpets” might point to the second coming of Christ and the New Jerusalem.
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
A. What parallels do you see?
Paul wanted the Thessalonians to understand that death is not the end of the story. He tells that Jesus will come again with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God. All who have died will rise again.
B. What hope does this give you?
It gives me hope of eternal life as well.
6. Read Psalm 47:5-9
A. How are you fulfilling the command of verse 6 and why do you think God sees this as important?
Singing praises to God is one way in which we witness to God’s greatness and thus we bring others to know God and also praise Him. I know I don’t do as good a job of this as I should, when I temporarily forget God is still in charge, and I allow daily pressures to stifle my joy.
7. What is your take-a-way and why?
Posting this a bit early as my hubby and I have taken a week off to travel and help our daughter and son in law with their 2nd new little blessing and we will be traveling back home later this week.
Seeing God as the great King of all the earth. There is so much evil and unrest in today’s world, nations and rulers trying to set themselves up as most plwerful, but they are sadly very mistaken. I love knowing I serve the great King of all the earth!
Also being reminded to praise God. When I do this, it sets my mind and heart above where God dwells. It also puts in perspective how very temporary all that this world has to offer— none of it will last.
The beauty of hearing the Hallelujah Chorus brought images to mind from my study of Revelation last year of Jesus high and lifted up. It brought tears to my eyes as it again reminded me He will make all things right.
Lastly, I loved this statement John Calvin made, “Christ’s majesty will quell the rebellion of the whole world”. It won’t be wars or peace treaties, but Christ’s majesty. What an awesome God we serve!!!! My heart feels so full as I reflect on all of this!
Sue — loved that you got that from Calvin: Christ’s majesty will quell the rebellion of the whole world…
4. In verse 5, how do you see this fulfilled in history and also pointing to a later fulfillment?
In history He swallowed up the family of Korah and those who listened were saved. Noah built the ark to save his family because God told him to. He listened and was saved. Job lost everything. He listened and believed and was saved by God.
Jesus was crucified and raised so now I am saved!
Great, Laura!
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
A. What parallels do you see?
Both sets of verses are talking about ascension; Psalms – Jesus, and 1 Thes – those who have already died and those who are alive when Jesus comes again.
Both sets of verses invoke emotions; Psalms – fear and joy, and 1 Thes – insecurity and hope/excitement (are these emotions or emotional responses?).
B. What hope does this give you?
I am hopeful that I too, will be taken to heaven with Jesus.
6. Read Psalm 47:5-9
A. How are you fulfilling the command of verse 6 and why do you think God sees this as important?
When I pray I try to make sure I thank Him for all I can think of; I praise him! When I get up in the morning I usually have Christian music playing to praise Him. When I go to church I praise Him…..so yes, I feel Iike I am trying to fulfill the command. Why is this important to God? Hmmmm…God loves me and wants me to acknowledge His love this way I suppose? It’s just like when my children honor me with their respect. It pleases me too!
Laura — love how you ponder. This, from C. S. Lewis might be helpful.
At first C. S. Lewis struggled with the whole idea of praising God, explaining: “We all despise the man who demands continued assurance of his own virtue, intelligence, or delightfulness…”[1] Was God like that? But then Lewis realized praise and worship might be for us, for what it does in our hearts.
The most obvious fact about praise…strangely escaped me. I thought of it in terms of compliment, approval, or the giving of honour. …I had not noticed how the humblest, and at the same time most balanced and capacious minds, praised most, while the cranks, misfits and malcontents praised least.[2]
[1] C. S. Lewis, Reflections on the Psalms, (Harcourt, Brace & World, Inc., New York, 1958) p. 93-94.
[2] Ibid. p.
6 B. I would like you to look at the above video of this psalm again and “sing with your mind.” Share anything that quickens you.
I watched the video again and was taken (again) with the lovely piano playing in the background. I went to you tube to look up the words to “Shout to the Lord” and ended up playing it with the lyrics. It made me tear up! So I guess C. S. Lewis was right; the praise is for us ?.
Love this application and revelation!
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
A. What parallels do you see?
1 Thes. 4: 16-17: “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.”
Both verses speak of His ascending, and the sound of the trumpet, and in 1 Thes. We are with Him in the ascension.
B. What hope does this give you?
This life here is not all we get, and even the best day ever is nothing compared to what lies ahead. It feels long here some days, but it will be the blink of an eye, and I am guaranteed Paradise, with Him, forever! Just to remind myself, that He is coming back to take me with Him, and that no matter what I am dealing with here, it will not continue-there is an end, with a promised Home, of beauty, health, peace, laughter, joy.
6. Read Psalm 47:5-9
A. How are you fulfilling the command of verse 6 and why do you think God sees this as important?
Oh, my words. So often they are whiny or correcting, judging or critiquing. But PRAISE. When I praise Him, I am acknowledging that HE super cedes all other thoughts, cares. I love singing hymns at Church, the way they capture my thoughts and focus my attention on Who my King is. Praise shrinks my cares to their proper size, and raises Him to His deserved Throne in my heart. “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalm 19:14
Lizzy, you answered so beautifully! Love, “we are with Him in the ascension!”
My hope is in his promise of eternal life with Him. “there is an end, with a promised Home” so glorious beyond my imagination.
6. Oh how I love to praise him in worship and by myself. It brings joy to my heart! Yes, it is good for my soul to acknowledge his lordship and the blessings poured out. Last Sunday we listened to a beautiful duet of Come Thou fount of every Blessing, just so precious.
Shirley, “Come Thou Fount..” is one of my favorites!! and oh, the last stanza: “Oh, to grace how great a debtor daily I’m constrained to be! Let thy goodness, like a fetter, bind my wandering heart to thee: prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, prone to leave the God I love; here’s my heart, O take and seal it; seal it for thy courts above.”
I love that verse too, Shirley and Lizzy. Reminds me of the close of the Song when he tells her “set me like a seal upon your heart”
6C. This is the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would be like the sands of the sea. Ponder this truth with your heart and your mind and share your thoughts.
I love this imagery of the “sands of the sea.” Of course, being the geologist, the sands around the world are very unique to the region. They are also beautiful! We have a sand with garnet in it here in New Hampshire.
Here is a picture:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/l3vg1xzq7pt62tz/Garnet%20Sand.jpg?dl=0
It seems wild to me that there would be so many different types of people, just like the sands. I tend to get focused on just me and figure everyone is just like me. It is not that way at all! So beautiful.
oh Laura–you bring SO MUCH to us here! Love this picture of the sand–amazing! And your thoughts, of how unique and special we all are…I can struggle when others don’t see things “my way”, but your trusth here reminds me of the beauty in our differences with others. thankful for you oh brainy one!
Lovely illustration — also impressed you could link us to this!
Laura — love that picture and illustration!
Don’t get me started you two! So sweet. Truth be told Dee, it wasn’t that easy….a bunch of searching and uploading and linking! But, I really wanted you to see it because it is lovely. So, I must give you a link to a very cool exercise I do with my students because it is so cool when you think of the scripture with it! This was too easy to find online and share.
Check out the green sand beach in Hawaii….I’ve been there! There is also one that is magnetic near LAX in California. I forget which, but you use a “magnet” to make the grains move. It’s cool. Okay, I’ll be quiet now! But, God has made a beautiful, special, unique world we live in, hasn’t he?
http://faculty.pasadena.edu/dndouglass/sand/VSCIndex.htm
To think how He told Abraham that his “family” would be as different as the grains of sand, and then really seeing the sands and how unique they are is memorable. Imagery to remember Dee!
And to think those sands will all be believers!
6. C. God’s promise to Abraham brings joy to my heart as I ponder this multitude, made up of every tribe, and every nation. So many stories remind me of those who have loved native people and have given their lives to reach them, to translate God’s word and to share the hope of eternal life. Yes, it reminds me that God’s Plan has touched generations from the time of Abraham. Each life is like the picture of sand(garnet) Laura posted; each one is a jewel so precious to God.
All the praises in all the tongues will honor God and we will understand them then!
Yes!!!! And this leads us into next week and The New Jerusalem! Guess what, she’s really a bride made up of every tribe and nation!!!! Excited about next week! 🙂
7. Calvin says both Jew and gentile will be gathered together. That seems to be a hard task to me. Or is it? In these days are Gentiles anyone who is not a believer? Or, is anyone who is not a Jew is a gentile, just as in the past? Does it mean we have to all be literally in the same place on earth? That would be difficult. Also I think he said something about being in the homeland (Israel?). Need to listen again to understand better.
Great questions. HOpe to hear some answers from the group!
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
A. What parallels do you see?
When He comes He will come with a shout (ESV says a ‘cry of command with the voice of an archangel’ and with the sound of the Trumpet of God). Glory!
B. What hope does this give you?
A perfect, good day here is like a night in a raunchy hotel compared to this day when He comes! :)))
I am also thinking of bad days here-ones where we cry out in the night. Ones that echo the crying out in the Psalms. Even in the grieving, the down cast days-Christ our hope-He lifts our countenance when physically, mentally, and emotionally we are unable to. My hope in this reality that He is coming and we will be ascended with Him-being with Him fully in His presence helps anchor me in seemingly hopeless times here. Whatever happens here seems big at the time but in light of the future with Him it isn’t. He is bigger and it is all in His hands-so my hope in the future also helps me trust Him in the now and He is my peace even though I may hurt inside-even though I grieve, I grieve as those with hope so there is a sweetness in Him even when I am desperate-I know my troubles are only light and momentary, AND I get to taste Him deeper in them.
2 Cor 4:17 For our light and temporary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that far outweighs our troubles.
Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.
Psalms 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.
Such good verses for this, Rebecca. I like your “AND I get to take Him deeper in them.”