Psalm 56

Trust in God Under Persecution

The psalmist prays for help while being persecuted by enemies.

1 - 4 The psalmist asks for God's grace and promises to put his faith in God no matter what

5 - 7 The psalmist refers to the evil of his enemies.

8 - 11 But God is good. "You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your record?" He will trust God - "What can a mere mortal do to me?"

12 - 13 The psalmist promises to keep his vows to God and render offerings - "For you have delivered my soul from death and my feet from falling so that I may walk before God in the light of life."

Psalm 55

Complaint About a Friend's Treachery

1 - 2 The psalmist asks God to listen to him and he describes his torment over the situation.

3 - 8 The psalmist wishes to escape his troubles: "O that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest!" (6) He compares his situation as being in a storm

9 - 11 The psalmist requests God to confuse the enemy because they are ruining the community.

12 - 15 He says he can deal with his enemies, it is those in his own ranks who have betrayed him that is hard to face.

16 - 19 He prays to God to redeem him in battle.

20 - 21 He feels bad because his freind broke a covenant with him.

22 - 23 He gives up his problem to the Lord, and puts his trust in the Lord.

Psalm 54

Prayer for Vindication

1 - 3 The Psalmist asks for help and for God to hear his prayer because "the insolent have risen against me, the ruthless seek my life; they do not set God before them."
4 - 5 The Psalmist calls God his helper, upholder of his life, and knows God will avenge his enemies.
6 - 8 The Psalmist offers a freewill offering and thanks God for hearing and responding to his prayer.

Psalm 53

Good Old Testament stuff. My notes say this is almost identical to Psalm 14 and I just looked back and it is! (Imitation is the highest form of flattery)

1. Fools say there is no God and they are corrupt.
2 - 3. God looks down to see wise people who seek him, but there is no one (probably as true today as it was then, unfortunately)
4 - 5 The evildoers "devour my people as they devour bread." (scary). They'll get it in the end. "For God will scatter the bones of the ungodly; they will be put to shame, for God has rejected them." (scarier)
6. Finally, Jacob will rejoice when Zion is restored.

The biggest thing I take from this is that God is looking down and not seeing people follow him. I should try to change that.

Psalm 52

1 - 4 The psalmist asks why his opponent loves evil more than good and lying more than the truth.

5 - 7 He promises that God will break him down (he who trusts riches more than God)

8 - 9 The psalmist compares himself to an olive tree, trusting in the love of God. He thanks God forever and proclaims God's good name.

Psalm 51

A great to Psalm to start with! I know it as THIS SONG.

1 - 2 The psalmist starts by asking for mercy.

3 - 5 When we sin, we go against God's wishes. "Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight" (4). We were also born sinful - "A sinner when my mother conceived me" (5)

6 - 9 The psalmsist describes a ritual with the hyssop (my notes) that represents a Jewish cleansing ceremony. He asks God to "Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities."

10 - 12. Here's the part I'm familiar with from the song. The psalmist asks God to create a clean heart within him, and not cast him away.

13 - 14 The psalmist offers to teach transgressors God's ways and help sinners to return to him.

15 - 17 We must be penitent (and mean it) "The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise"

It's psalms like this one that makes me wish I really had time to study the Bible. I'm really glad we're going through the Bible, but this is one I'd like to know through and through (a keeper).

1 Corinthians 16

1 - 4 The Collection for the Saints

Paul wraps up the letter. My notes say Paul was collecting "a fund for the Jerusalem church to which Paul committed himself and his congregations.

5 - 12 Plans for Travel

Paul intends to go to Macedonia. He says Timothy might stop by.

13 - 24 Final Messages and Greetings

"Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love." (13 - 14)

Tomorrow: Deuteronomy

1 Corinthians 15

1 - 11 The Resurrection of Christ

3 - 8. "For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received; that Christ died for our sins in acordance with the scriptures, and that he was burried, and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. Then he appeared to James and then to me.

12 - 34 The Resurrection of the Dead

21. "For since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead has also come through a human being. He goes on to say, "Come to a sober and right mind, and sin no more; for some people have no knowledge of God. I say this to your shame." (34)

35 - 58 The Resurrection of the Body

". . . Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable . . . but we will all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet." (50 - 52)

He concludes (to memorize): "Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."

1 Corinthians 14

1 - 25 Gifts of Prophecy and Tongues

Here Paul recommends speaking in tongues (if this is something one can do). Also, if one speaks in tongues, one must pray to interpret what is said. If you speak in tongues, be sure that your mind is behind it (in church I would rather speak five words with my mind, in order to instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. 19). He also says tongues are for unbelievers more than believers.

26 - 40 Orderly Worship

Paul recommends orderly worship, including, a hymn, a lesson, a revalation, a tongue, or an interpretation. More than this specific order, I believe Paul is recommending that there be a plan - otherwise, you're going to have a throng of noise. He summarizes by saying, "So, my friends, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues, but all things should be done decently and in order."

I must admit that I have trouble with this chapter since I don't come from a church that prophesies or speaks in tongues. (But we have gobs of order!)

1 Corinthians 13

1 - 13 The Gift of Love

Here it is, brothers and sisters, the passage that is quoted at nearly every wedding (including mine!). And with good reason. It's probably the most poetic passage in the New Testament. (Every time I read verse 11 about putting away childish things, though, I feel very guilty about my comic book collection).

"And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love." (13) We can't go wrong if we have those three!

1 Corinthians 12

1 - 11 Spiritual Gifts

Paul talks about the many kinds of spiritual gifts. Some utter wisdom, others knowledge. Some have faith, others healing, others working miracles, speaking prophecy, speaking in tongues, and interpreting tongues. "All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses" (11).

12 - 31 One Body with Many Members

Paul's metaphor of the church as Christ's body. "Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it" (27). He tells the congregation to strive for the greater gifts (mentioned above). And he will show us a better way tomorrow (love).

1 Corinthians 11

2 - 16 Head Coverings

Should women cover their hair in church? It's not really clear: "Neither was man created for the sake of woman, but woman for the sake of a man. For this reason a woman ought to have (a symbol of) authority on her head, because of the angels" (9 - 10). My notes state that this can be interpreted either way.

This just goes show how seriously we should take the worship service. I don't know about head coverings, but I tend to be more conservative about behaving in the church and the sanctuary. There should be a sacred place to take refuge from the world and all its secular trappings. This brings us to the Lord's Supper.

17 - 34 The Lord's Supper

Paul starts talking about abuses of the Lord's Supper. Apparently people were going there to feast and hog all the food so others go hungry. (This would be hard to do nowadays when one gets a pinch of bread and a shot of wine or grape juice). In lines 23 to 26 Paul tells how to institute the Lord's Supper (and my church quotes these lines). Paul then warns of taking the supper unworthily, advising that Christians to "Examine yourselves, and only then eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For all who eat and drink without discerning the body, eat and drink judgement against themselves." (28 - 29). Again, it is easy to forget the meaning of the Lord's Supper. I might even make a habit of examining my sins before the Lord's Supper (which we have on the first Sunday of the month).

1 Corinthians 10

1 -22 Do All to the Glory of God

Paul continues to discuss things offered to idols. Paul reminds the congregation about Israel's idolatry & sexual immorality and the danger of their own. Paul recommends they "flee from the worship of idols" (1-14). He describes the communal implications of religiousfeasts and warns against provoking the Lord to jealousy by "being partners with demons" (15-22). My notes say this is probably a rebuke to the sort of practice alluded to in 8:10, where some at the church in Corinth thought nothing of eating sacrificial meat even in an idol's temple.

23 - 33 Do All to the Glory of God

Paul gives specific instructions concerning meat later sold in the market place or offered at the dinner of an unbeliever to which they might be invited. He recommends they not be concerned unless someone specifically associates it with having been offered to an idol, and then to refrain out of consideration for the other's conscience (23-30).

What's the meaning of all this? "So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God." (31) Do this so that the people you meet throughout the day may be saved. He concludes with another good quote: "Be imiatators of me, as I am of Christ" (11:1)

1 Corinthians 9

1 - 26 The Rights of an Apostle

What rights does an apostle have? Food and drink - a believing wife, etc. Paul shows how he has restrained himself. Though he had the right to have a believing wife and be supported in the preaching the gospel (1-14), he freely chose not to exercise these and other rights. One reason was so he might be able to offer his service to the Lord (15-18), but Paul also wanted to save others (19-23). Also, Paul believes that self-restraint is necessary quality for salvation (24-27).

1 Corinthians 8

1 - 13 Food Offered to Idols

My notes say that Paul is talking here about an issue that the Corinthian congregations is struggling with: is it okay to eat meat that was left over by pagan sacrificial rituals. Acts 15.29 comes out against it - Paul doesn't really say. Paul basically says that the food isn't the root cause of sin against other Christians, but since it may be a factor, he's more or less against it. (13: Therefore, if food is a cause of their falling, I will never eat meat, so that I may not cause one of them to fall.) I take this to mean a Christian must live by example.

1 Corinthians 7

1 - 16 Directions Concerning Marriage

Paul states that a man and a woman should be married to avoid sexual immorality. The best bet for the unmarried and widowed is not to be married, but "it is better to marry than to be aflame with passion." (9) Paul recommends against separation and divorce. He also says that the unbelieving spouse is made holy by the believing spouse so they should divorce, but if the unbeliever wishes to separate, then that's okay.

17 - 24 The Life that the Lord Has Assigned

Paul doesn't recommend Christians to try to change themselves. "Let each of you lead that life that the Lord has assigned, to which God has called you." (17)

25 - 40 The Unmarried and Widows

Again Paul doesn't recommend the unmarried and widowed to marry. This makes sense, since it's hard to please both a spouse and follow one's heart in following God.

1 Corinthians 6

1 - 11 Lawsuits Among Believers

Paul is against taking problems to the Roman courts. It's even worse when a believer goes against another believer in an unbeliever's court.

12 - 20 Glorify God in Body and Spirit

Paul corrects the Corinthians on what it means to be faithful to the gospel. 13 "Food is meant for the stomach and the stomach for food," and God will destroy both one and the other. The body is meant not for fornication but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.

19. Here it says the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (and not your own). In 20 we must remember that we were bought for a price, and therefore, we must glorify God in the body.

1 Corinthians 5

1 - 8 Sexual Immorality Defiles the Church

Paul describes a specific case in which an unnamed member of the Corinthian church is living with his step-mother. Paul recommends that they "hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh so that his spirit be saved in the day of the Lord." I hope Paul means this figuratively - that the man must destroy his fleshly desires.

Paul then says that the old yeast (evil) must be cleaned out in the new dough so that the bread will rise.

9 - 13 Sexual Immorality Must Be Judged

Paul tells them not to associate with those who are sexually immoral, greedy, an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or robber (I guess going to drill is a bad idea . . . ) He tells them not even to eat with these people (may notes say this could mean communion supper) . For what have I do do with judging the outside? . . . God will judge the outside. "Drive out the wicked person from among you" (12 - 13).

1 Corinthians 4

1 - 13 The Ministry of the Apostles

We must think of ourselves are servants to Christ and stewards of God's mysteries (the gospel). Don't worry about who will judge you (Paul states he doesn't judge himself).

What does the saying "Nothing beyond what is written" mean? Paul states that no one should be "puffed up" in favor of one against the other. I see this "puffing up" a lot between the different denominations.

8. Already you have all you want! Already you have become rich! I think I wrote about this in an earlier entry - but of course, Paul is talking about spiritual riches.

14 - 21 Fatherly Admonition

Paul speaks to the Corinthians as a "father of the gospel." He wishes them to become imitators of him.

1 Corinthians 3

1 - 23 On Divisions in the Corinthian Church

Paul returns to the issue of the problems in the Corinthian Church. He states that they are "infants in Christ" (new Christians) and that he has fed them milk (Mother's milk) and not solid food. He says they're still not ready for solid food. This gives me the idea that being a Christian is a process and that certain issues are better for mature Christians than for newer Christians. (what these issues are, I don't know).

Paul likens building a church community to that of building a physical building - laying the foundation (Jesus Christ) and then going upward.

18. Do not deceive yourselves. If you think that you are wise in this age, you should become folls so that you amy become wise. 19. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. I don't take this to mean that one should avoid a secular education - one just shouldn't think one is wise in this world.

Don't boast about human leadership - you belong to Christ and Christ belongs to God (21 - 23)

1 Corinthians 2

1 - 5 Proclaiming Christ Crucified

Paul focuses on nothing "except Jesus Christ and him crucified" so that their faith might not "rest on human human wisdom but on the power of God."

6 - 16 The True Wisdom of God

Paul shows how the "foolishness" of the gospel is actually the highest wisdom. They are "revealed to us through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches everyting, even the depths of God." (10)

"Those who are unspiritual do not receive the gifts of God's Spirit, for they are foolishness to them, and they are unable to understand them because they are spiritually discerned" (14) In order to understand God's word, one must open oneself to the message - otherwise we'll "think too much" and it will be blocked. (It's like when I watch Superman, I accept that he can fly - if I couldn't accept that "fact" I'd stop watching, and I'd miss the movie!)

1 Corinthians 1

1 - 9 Salutation

Paul greets the Corinthians and prays thanks for the "grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus" . . . "just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened in you - so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for teh revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ."

10 - 17 Divisions in the Church

Paul's concerned that the community has been breaking down. Chloe's people reported that there were quarrels. It seems that some follow Paul, some Apollos (mentioned in Acts) and some Cephas (Peter?). Who baptized who seems to be an issue. Paul doesn't like this; he says that Christ did not send him "to baptize but to prclaim the gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom, so that the cross of Christ might not be emptied of its power." The power of Christ's message is its simplicity. (Those who claim to know some secret or special truth shouldn't be trusted).

18 - 31 Christ the Power and Wisdom of God

Paul eschews "wisdom" and says the "the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing" He goes on to say that "God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak in the world to shame the strong, etc." (reminds me of the Beatitudes) He chose this so that one can "boast in the presence of God."

"He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption, in order that, as it is written, 'Let one who boasts, boast in the Lord.'" (30 - 31) It's okay to boast if God gets the glory.

John 21

1 - 14 Jesus Appears in Galilee

Jesus helps Peter & the disciples catch fish.

15 - 19 Jesus' Instructions to Peter

Jesus asks Simon Peter if he loves him more than these (other disciples). Peter says he does. Jesus asks him a second time. Peter still does. Then he tells Peter, "Tend my sheep." When he asks Peter a third time if he loves him, Peter's feelings are hurt, Jesus says, "Feed my sheep" (My notes say this refers to Peter's leadership in the early church). Then Jesus warns that Peter may be martyred if he follows him.

Further, my notes say that "Peter's threefold profession of his love parallels his threefold denial.

20 - 25 The Beloved Disciple

At dinner, Peter wonders that someone is going to betray Jesus, but Jesus says again, "Follow me."

The book concludes by testifying that it is true.

Tomorrow, let's start 1 Corinthians!

John 20

1 - 10 the Empty Tomb

Mary Magdalene comes on Sunday and notices that stone had been removed from the tomb. She ran to Simon Peter and "the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved" who go to the tomb. The cloth that had been Jesus' head is by itself!

11 - 18 Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene

She's crying outside the tomb and Jesus walks up to her.

Jesus: "Woman, why are you weeping?"
Mary: "They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him."
Jesus: "Woman, why are you weeping?'
Mary: "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him and I will take him away."
Jesus: "Mary!"
Mary: "Rabbouni." (Teacher)
Jesus: "do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'"

She goes to the disciples and says, "I have seent the Lord."

19 - 24 Jesus Appears to the Disciples

He appears before the disciples and shows him the wounds on his hands and side. He breathes on them and says, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."

25 - 29 Jesus and Thomas

Thomas says he won't believe "(u)nless I see the mark of the nails on his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side". A week later, he sees them. Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Belessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."

30 - 31 The Purpose of This Book

This book (which is only part of the signs he did in the presence of his disciples) was written "so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name."

John 19

1 - 16 Jesus Before Pilate Continued

Since the Jews want Barabbas, Pilate has Jesus flogged. The soldiers give him a crown of thorns & dress him in a purple robe. The Jews want him crucified because he has claimed to be the Son of God. This makes Pilate afraid. He asks Jesus where he's from. No answer. Pilate explains that he has the power to crucify Jesus and Jesus says, "You would have no power over me unless it was given to you from above; therefore the one who anded me over to you is guilty of a greater sin." Pilate tries again to release him, but he bows to the public outcry. He asks if he should crucify their king. The crowd responds, "We have no king but the emporer. Pilate hands Jesus over to be crucified.

17 - 30 The Crucifixion of Jesus

They take Jesus and he carries his cross to the Place of the Skull (Golgotha) He was crucified with one on either side under a sign Pilate had maks that reads, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." The priests didn't like this, but Pilate says, "I have written what I have written." The soldiers cast lots for his stuff (fulfilling scripture). Lots of Marys come to see him - Jesus says, "I am thirsty," but he is given sour wine. After he receives the wine, he says, "It is finished," bows his head, and gives up his spirit.

31 - 37 Jesus' Side is Pierced

Since the soldiers don't want bodies hanging on their holy day, the Day of Preparation, the soldiers come and pierce his side (but don't break his legs). This fulfills scripture as well.

38 - 41 The Burial of Jesus

Joseph of Arimathea (not the husband of Mary) comes to take the body. Nicodemus brings 100 pounds of burial spices (!) They wrap Jesus' body according to Jewish custom and lay him in a tomb.

John 18

John 18

1 - 14 The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus

After Jesus' prayer Jesus goes to the Kidron valley with his disciples. Judas brings a detachment (my notes say a detachment is 600 soldiers !) there to pick him up. Jesus goes peacefully - he even tells Simon Peter to put back his sword after he cuts off the ear of a high priest's slave. The Jewish soldiers take him before Annas (father-in-law to Caiaphas, the high priest). "Caiaphas is the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have one person die for the people."

15 - 18 Peter Denies Jesus

Peter follow Jesus, but when the woman asks him if he's a disciple, he denies it (you know, he might wish to avoid trouble regarding the slave's ear . . .)

19 - 24 The High Priest Questions Jesus

He says he has no secrets - the police hit him in the face. Then they send him bound to Caiaphas.

25 - 27 Peter Denies Jesus Again

He denies knowing Christ two more times (the second time by a relative of the man whose ear was cut off). Then the cock crows.

28 - 40 Jesus Before Pilate

Pilate asks Jesus if he's king of the Jews. Jesus evades answering. Pilate finds no case against him and asks the crowd if he should release him. They say to release the bandit Barabbas.

John 17

John 17

1 - 25 Jesus Prays for His Disciples

In Jesus' last prayer before his crucifixion, (my notes say that it shows how the Savior intercedes for his disciples before his departure), he prays, "I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world . . . and they have kept your word." (6)

He goes on, "Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may bew one, as we are one." (Jesus wants his followers to worship as one).

Jesus prays, "Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you have sent me into the world so I have sent them into the world. (17 - 18). Jesus wishes his followers are to carry on his teachings to the world. He expounds on this idea here: "The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one." Jesus looks for a "unity based on God's love" (my notes).

John 16

John 16

4b - 15 The Work of the Spirit

Jesus says that he must leave the world so the "Advocate" (Holy Spirit) cand prove the world wrong about sin and guide the world to truth.

16 - 24 Sorrow Will Turn into Joy

The disciples mutter amongst themselves, and Jesus says that things will get worse before they will get better. "So you have pain now; but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you." (22)

25 - 33 Peace for the Disciples

Jesus says that later he will speak more plainly; the disciples will be scattered but he will not be alone because he is with the Father. He says this so the disciples will be at peace. He concludes, "In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!" (33)

John 15

John 15

1 - 17 Jesus the True Vine

This is one of my favorite passages. The Father is like a vinegrower who removes the branches that don't bear fruit. "You have already been cleansed by the word I have spoken to you," he tells the disciples. (3) Whew! Jesus wants his followers to abide in him as he abides in them. He is the vine and they are the branches (those who don't abide are thrown away like branches where they whither - then they're gathered and burned) But here's the hopeful part: Jesus said, "If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." (8)

His last commandment is for his followers (whom he now calls his friends) "to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name." (16) Sounds like an evangelical message to me!

18 - 16:4 The World's Hatred

My notes say that this section on persecution is closely related to the conflict between the synagogue authorities and the Christian community.

Jesus predicts that his followers will be persecuted because of following him. He says that whoever hates him hates his father (God). The Holy Spirit will come to testify on his behalf. He says these things to them "to keep them from stumbling" and that those who go after them "have not known the father or me."

John 14 Part Two (15 - 17)

15 – 17 The Promise of the Holy Spirit (a)

Jesus says, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you.”

First, Jesus wishes his believers to keep his commandments. (These don’t seem limited to the ten commandments – which he asked his believers to keep).

Second, Jesus says he will “ask the Father” to send the Holy Spirit (my notes: only John calls the HS the “Spirit of Truth” . . . “advocate” is equivalent of a defense lawyer [Gk. Paraclete which means “Helper” or “Comforter”]. Humans can’t “receive or know” (truth) BUT we already have a “spark” of the holy spirit in us as Jesus says, “he abides in you, and he will be in you.”

Remember, the church didn’t accept the doctrine of the Trinity as “three in one” until the 4th century (That doesn’t mean it didn’t exist as such before then, though).

John 14 Part One (1 - 14)

John 14

1 - 14 Jesus the Way to the Father

"Do not let your hearts be troubled," Jesus begins. [This reminds me that when I was a kid someone (my grandmother?) told me that it was a sin to worry. God will take care of everything.] Jesus goes on the dwelling places being prepared for his followers. Thomas asks how they can know the way if he's going the way. Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one come to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him." (6 - 7)

Philip wants to see the Father. Jesus tells him that Philip should believe because he says so, and if not, then because of the works he has performed. "Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these because I am going to the Father." (12) If we follow Christ we will do what he would do. (I guess this takes study and prayer to know just what Jesus would do) My notes say, "Believers are Jesus' successors and Jesus "returns" through their work."

Prayer also works: "I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If in my name you ask (me) for anything, I will do it." (13 - 14)

John 13

John 13

1 - 20 Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet

It's before Passover and Judas has already decided to betray Jesus. Jesus knows so he washes the feet (a common practice, according to my notes, but usually given to the slaves - it would be expected for the disciples to wash the teacher's feet).

21 - 30 Jesus Foretells His Betrayal

Jesus accuses Judas of his betrayal by giving him the piece of bread. It is interesting that the Last Supper isn't instituted in this last meal (here).

31 - 35 The New Commandment

His last commandment: "I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you should also love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." I like how he repeats "love one another three times." (He meant it!) It's sad that few follow this commandment.

36 - 38 Jesus Foretells Peter's Denial

Simon Peter asks where Jesus is going. Jesus says, where he can't follow. Simon Peter says he will lay down his life for Jesus, and Jesus predicts that he will deny Jesus 3 times before morning.

John 12 Part Two (27 - 50)

John 12

27 - 36 Jesus Speaks About His Death

Jesus feels troubled and says, "Father, glorify your name." A voice comes from heaven, saying, "I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again." (some in the crowd thinks it's thunder; others think angels) Jesus says, "This voice has come for your sake not for mine. . . when I am lifted up from the earth I will draw all people to myself." The crowd is still stuck on this how-can-you-say-you're-the-son-of-man-thing. Jesus says, "The light is with you for a little longer. Walk while you have the light, so that darkness may not overtake you . . . believe in the light so that you may become children of the light.

It's frustrating to teach and know that few people understand you.

37 - 43 The Response to Jesus

Jesus departs and hides - few people believe him - this fulfills Isaiah.

44 - 50 Summary of Jesus' Teaching

This is a good passage to bookmark:
When a man believes in me, he does not believe in me only, but in the one who sent me. When he looks at me, he sees the one who sent me. I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it. There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day. For I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it. I know that his command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.

John 12 Part One (1 - 26)

John 12

1 - 8 Mary Anoints Jesus

At Martha and Mary's, 6 days before Passover, there's a dinner (Lazarus is there!). Mary anoints Jesus' feet and hair with a pound of expensive nard. Judas wants to know why it wasn't sold for money for the poor. Jesus says, "Leave her alon. She brought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me" (7-8)

9 - 11 The Plot to Kill Lazarus

The "Jews" plan to put Lazarus to death with Jesus since a lot of people are converting because he was raised from the dead.

12 - 19 Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem

The next day a great crowd shows up to greet Jesus. John's the only gospel that mentions the palms. They sing Hosanna! which translates to "Save us! We beseech you!" He sits on a young donkey (to fulfill prophesy?)

20 - 26 Some Greeks Wish to See Jesus

Jesus doesn't see the Greeks though; he tells the disiples, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified . . . unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit." I take this to mean (with the help of my notes) his mission can't be spread to the Gentiles without his having died and been resurrected first.

Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor. My notes say this is the last publis dialogue in John and is focused on his impending death.

John 11

John 11

1 - 16 The Death of Lazarus

Jesus' friend Lazarus, who lives in Bethany, the village of Mary (who annointed Jesus' feet) & her sister Martha is sick. They call Jesus who comes, risking his life.

17 - 27 Jesus the Resurrection and the Life

When Jesus arrives, Lazarus has been in the tomb for 4 days. He tells Martha her brother will rise again. Then he tells her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. (25 - 26 *ish*) Martha tells Jesus she believes.

28 - 44 Jesus Raises Lazarus

Martha tells Mary who comes and weeps at Jesus' feet. Some Jews believe Jesus and others don't (which disturbs Jesus). Jesus comes to the tomb and tells them to take away the stone (it stinks). "Did I tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" (40) He prays and says in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" And out he comes! This story prefigures Jesus' resurrection.

45 - 57 The Plot to Kill Jesus

Many who saw Lazarus's resurrection believe, but some report him to the Pharisees; the high priest Ciaphas says it would be better if one man were to die than a whole nation ("The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few?") so from that day the plan to put Jesus to death. Now Jesus can no longer walk openly, and as Passover draws near, the priests give orders for anyone who knows where Jesus is to turn him in.

John 10 Part Two (22 - 42)

John 10

22 - 42 Jesus Is Rejected

Jesus confronts "the Jews" who say they wish to stone him for "making himself God." Jesus asks if it is blasphemous to declare himself "God's son." They try to arrest him, but he escapes across the Jordan where many believe that he has fulfilled John the Baptist's prophesy.

John 10 Part One (1 - 21)

John 10

1 - 21 Jesus the Good Shepherd

Jesus (apparently) continues to speak to the Pharisees, saying, "Anyone who doesn't enter the sheepfold by the gate but clibs in by another way is a thief and a bandit" He says that he is the gate.

"I am the good shepherd," says Jesus. "The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (11). Jesus wants there to be one flock and one shepherd.

This speech further divides the Jews.

John 9

John 9

1 - 12 A Man Born Blind Receives Sight

When the disciples see a blind man, they ask Jesus "Who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus says neither - that he was born blind so that God's works might be revealed in him. ". . . We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work." (4) Then Jesus heals the man's blindness with mud from dirt and his spit. He tells him to wash the pool of Siloam. The people who knew him are surprised, but Jesus takes off before they can talk to him.

13 - 34 The Blind Man and the Pharisees

The (former) blind man is brought before the Pharisees and he tells them what happened. The Jews (same Pharisees) don't believe the blind man, since he was "born entirely in sins," and they drive him away.

Who's blind in this part of the story?

35 - 41 The Blind Man and Jesus

Jesus hears that the blind man had a hard time and he finds him and asks if he believes in "the Son of Man" The blind man believes. Jesus: "I came into this world for judgment so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind." The Pharisees are listening and they deny that Jesus is talking about them. Jesus says to them, "If you were blind, you would not have sin. But now that you say, 'We see," you sin remains."

John 8 Part Two (31 - 59)

John 8

31 - 59 Jesus and Abraham

The Jews tell Jesus that since they are descendents of Abraham, they have never been slaves to anyone. Jesus replies, "Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin." (34) The Jews become increasingly hostile when Jesus refers to the Father (they say Abraham is their father). He ends the arguement by stating, "Very truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am." (58) The crowd was about to stone him, but he hid and left the temple.

John 8 Part One (1 - 30)

Chapter 8

1 - 11 The Woman Caught in Adultery

My notes say that this whole story was probably added later. At any rate, Jesus warns against judging others. The sribes and Pharisees try to trap Jesus. Again, he turns the tables on them, and puts them on the spot. "Let anyone among you wh is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." They walk away one by one.

12 - 20 Jesus Is the Light of the World

"I am the light of the world," says Jesus. "Whoever follows me will never walk in darknesss but will have the light of life." The pharisees still don't hear him. They're still concerned that he is testifying on his own behalf. They want two witnesses and want to see his father. "If you knew me, you would know my Father also," says Jesus.

21 - 30 Jesus Is from Above

Jesus says, "I am going away, and you will search for me, but you will die in your sin. Where I am going, you cannot come." This confuses the Pharisees.

John 7

John 7

1 – 13 Jesus Goes to Jerusalem

Jesus’ brothers want Jesus to go with them to the Festival of Booths. Jesus declines to go with them.

14 – 36 Words of Conflict: Jesus’ Teaching and Response

There is a controversy over Jesus’ authority. Jesus states his teaching is not his but his who sent him. The Pharisees send the temple police to arrest him

37 – 52 Words of Conflict Jesus’ Teaching and Response

On the last day of the festival. There is disagreement in the crowd because Jesus comes from Galilee and the Messiah is supposed to come from Bethlehem. The temple police return to the Pharisees empty-handed. Nicodemus defends Jesus, saying that the law forbids judging people without first giving them a hearing. The Pharisees aren’t convinced, saying that no prophet is to arise from Galilee.

John 6 Part Two (22 - 71)

John 6

22 - 59 The Bread from Heaven

The next day Jesus preaches of bread. Some highlights:

• Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. (27)
• Very truly I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven (32)
• I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty (35)
• I am the bread of life. Your anscestors ate the manna in the wilderness and they died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die (48 - 50)
• Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them. Just as the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever eats me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like that which your ancestors ate, and they died. But the one who eats this bread will live forever (53 - 58)

In that last part Jesus seems to be talking about Communion (the Catholic Eucharist). My notes say he may refer both to the sacrifice of Jesus' body on the cross and the last supper.

60 - 71 The Disciples' Response

Jesus asks the disciples who can accept his difficult teaching. Some turn away. The 12 disciples are still there and Jesus asks if they want to stay. Simon Peter says, "To whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God." (68 - 69) Jesus predicts that one of them "is a devil."

John 6 Part One (1-21)

This is a long chapter, so I'm going to divide it.

John 6

1 - 15 Feeding the Five Thousand

As Passover arrives, a crowd has begun to follow Jesus. Jesus asks Philip how they are to buy bread for the crowd and Philip says it would cost 6 months' wages. Andrew (Simon Peter's little brother) sees a boy with 5 barley loaves and 2 fish. Jesus tells the people to sit down, takes the loaves and distributes the food. Jesus gives thanks and fills 12 baskets (# of apostles - coincidence?). When Jesus sees the crowd is about to force him to become king, he goes to the mountains by himself.

16 - 21 Jesus Walks on the Water

The disciples start in the boat without Jesus. The sea becomes rough and Jesus comes walking up to them. "It is I; do not be afraid," he says.

"Be not afraid" is always a good lesson from Jesus (in anything you do!)

John 5

John 5

1 - 18 Jesus Heals on the Sabbath

Jesus heals a man by who had been ill for 38 years by telling him to take up his mat and walk. One problem: it's the Sabbath and it is unlawful to carry the mat. When pressed, Jesus replies, "My Father is still working, and I also am working." This parable seems to me to be about the dangers of following the letter or the law rather than the spirit of the law.

19 - 30 The Authority of the Son

Jesus has the power of judgment. 24 "Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life."

31 - 47 Witnesses to Jesus

Jesus offers John and the scriptures as testimony on his behalf. (My notes state that this passage is important because Jewish law did not accept individuals' testimony about themselves).

John 4

John 4

1 - 45 Jesus and the Woman of Samaria

Jesus heads back to Galilee through Samaria. At Jacob's well, he meets a Samaritan woman, and he asks her for a drink. (My notes: "Though both Jews and Samaritans were descended from ancient Israel and practiced similar religions, there was a long standing hostility between them. Thus it was unusual for Jews to buy food from Samaritans). He tells her to get her husband, and she says she has none. Jesus tells her that she has had 5 husbands, and the one she has now is not her husband. (My notes: "Perhaps this subject is raised because in the OT, the meeting of a man and a woman at a well often led to marriage") She sees that Jesus is a prophet, and he said, "But the hour is coming, and is now hear, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." (23-24)

The disciples come and are upset that he is speaking to a woman. They leave and Jesus refuses to eat, saying, "I have food to eat that you do not know about (32) . . . My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to complete his work. (34)" They return to Galilee.

46 - 54 Jesus Heals an Official's Son

In Capernaum the son of a royal official is ill. Jesus tells him, "Go your son will live." He returns home and discovers that the kid's fever broke at the same hour he was speaking to Jesus.

John 3

John 3

1 - 21 Nicodemus Visits Jesus

Nicodemus was a leader of the Jews. Jesus tells him that no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again (from water and the Spirit). Whoever believes in Jesus will be saved. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son (18)

22 - 36 John the Baptist's Testimony about Jesus

A "certain Jew" asks John the Baptist about Jesus who is also baptizing people. John testifies to Jesus' authenticity and reiterates that "whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him" (36)

John 2

John 2

1 - 12 The Wedding at Cana

In this miracle, found in John, Jesus changes water to wine - and it's good wine. The steward is amazed because people usually serve the best wine first.

13 - 25 Jesus Cleanses the Temple

This story of Jesus cleansing the temple at Passover is found at the end of the other gospels (which my notes say may be more historically correct, since it was one of the things that led to his arrest). Jesus said he will destroy the temple and raise it again in three days, but no one knew what he was talking about until after his resurrection.

John 1

John 1

1 - 18 The Word Became Flesh

My notes: "The prologue introduces the central theme of this Gospel: the divine Savior has come into the world, has been rejected by many, but has given eternal life to those who accepted him."

Jesus was God's Word to men. The Word was with God from the beginning. Then Jesus lived among us. 16. From his fullness of grace we have all received, grace upon grace.

19 - 34 The Testimony of John the Baptist

Jesus denies to the priests and Levites that he is the Messiah. John the Baptist testifies that Jesus, "Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after to me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandle." (26-27) Later, he says, "Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!

35 - 51 The First Disciples of Jesus

The disciples recognize Jesus' divinity and follow him. It's amazing how they drop what they are doing and follow him. The Holy Spirit must have truly been at work.

Numbers 36

Numbers 36

1 - 13 Marriage of Female Heirs

My notes say, "The complaint in this verse assumes that a wife's property became her husbands upon marriage. In such a case the solution in 27.7-8 might mean that ancestral land would be moved from one tribe to another, a possibilitty not considered in framing that earlier solution and one that was to be avoided.

Numbers 35

Numbers 35

1 - 8 Cities for the Levites

The Lord tells Moses the dimensions of the towns. The Levites shall have six cities of refuge plus 42 towns to total 48.

9 - 15 Cities of Refuge

The cities of refuge are "so, there is a that a slayer who kills a person without intent may flee there." There will be six of them.

16 - 34 Concerning Murder and Blood Revenge

Anyone who strikes someone with an iron object is a murderer and shall be put to death. This also applies to one with a stone in the hand, a weapon of wood. Also on this list are if someone "pushes another in hatre, or hurls something at another", or strikes in emnity with the hand.

If he kills without emnity there is a process of retribution.

33-34. "You shall not pollute the land in which you live; for blood pollutes the land, and no expiation can be made for the land, for the blood that is shed in it, except by the blood of the one who shed it. You shall not defile the land in which you live, in which I also dwell; for I the Lord dwell among the Israelites."

Numbers 34

Numbers 34

1 - 15 The Boundaries of the Land

God tells them where the boundaries of the land are (Dead Sea in East, the ascent of Akrabbim in the south, the Mediterranean in the west, etc.). My notes say "The boundaries of the promised land given here are ideal and do not correspond to Israel's actually boundaries at any time . . . They do, however, correspond to the territory "Canaan" as ruled by Egypt in the second half of the second millennium B.C.E."

16 - 29 Tribal Leaders

Here is the list of Tribal Leaders, of which my notes say only Caleb and Joshua have been mentioned before.

Numbers 33

Numbers 33

1 - 49 The Stages of Israel's Journey from Egypt

They set out from Rameses in the first month [. . . ] while they Egyptians were burying their firstborn, whom the Lord had struck down among them (4 - 5) The summary follows the Israelites from the Succoth to the wilderness of Sinai (6 - 15) and to the plains of Moab (16 - 49).

50 - 56 Directions for the Conquest of Canaan

In Moab (by the Jordan at Jericho) the Lord tells Moses to tell the Israelites to drive the Canaanites from their land and destroy their cast images, and then they can divide up the spoils

Numbers 32

Numbers 32

1 - 42 Conquest and Division of Transjordan

My notes: The Gadites have cattle and the point out that Israel has already won good cattle land. Moses interprets their request as a fear of failure in war. They compromise: the Reubenites and Gadites both inherit the land they want and fight in the remaining battle for conquest on the west side of Jordan.

Numbers 31

Numbers 31

1 - 12 War Against Midian

The Lord commands Moses to avenge the Israelites against Midian (1000 troops from each side). They battle and kill every male, including the kings of Midian. They bring all of the spoils of war to Moses, to Eleazar the priest and to the congregation of the Israelites (in Moab).

13 - 24 Return from the War

Moses gets mad with the officers because he allowed the women to live. He tells them to go back and kill the women and little baby boys (but it's okay to keep virgins for yourselves, wink wink). Eleazar tells how everything in the booty must be purified.

25 - 54 Disposition of Captives and Booty

The spoils are divided in two parts: between those who went to battle and the congregation (list follows).

Numbers 30

Numbers 30

1 - 16 Vows made by Women

When men make vows to the Lord, he shall not break his word. When a woman makes a vow, and is still under her father's authority, he must speak up if he disapproves. Similarly, a married woman's vow is subject to her husband's approval. (If he disagrees, he can nullify her vow).

Numbers 29

Numbers 29

1 - 6 Offerings at the Festival of Trumpets

The Lord demands a burnt offering of one young bull, one ram and seven male lambs a year old, all without defect, a grain offering of 3/10 of an ephah of fine flour and oil, one male goat as a sin offering, and the drink offering. (All of this makes a pleasing odor)

7 - 11 Offerings on the Day of Atonement

On the tenth day of the seventh month, theLord demands 1 young bull, 7 male lambs (a year old without blemish), grain offering, a male goat for sin offering, and the regular offerings.

12 - 40 Offerings at the Festival of Booths

Here is a list of what the Lord demands day by day for the 8 days of the festival. (I won't write it down - it's all there in Numbers 29!) Still, there's going to be a convocation and no working.

Numbers 28

Numbers 28

1 - 8 Daily Offerings

The Lord demands daily offerins 2 male lambs, a year old without blemish (one in the morning and one at night).

9 - 10 Sabbath Offerings

The Lord demands in addition to the lambs, two-tenths of an ephah of choice flour for a grain offering.

11 - 15 Monthly Offerings

The Lord demands 2 young bulls, 1 ram, 7 male lambs (a year old without blemish) and 3/10 an ephah of choice flour, (as well as drink offerings, etc.)

16 - 25 Offerings at Passover

On the 14th day of the first month, the Lord demands a holy convocation (no working!), and a burnt offering of 2 young bulls, 1 ram, 7 males lambs (year old no blemish), and the grain offerings. Plus a sin offering of a male goat.

26 - 31 Offerings at the Festival of Weeks

On the day of first fruits, the Lord demands a holy convocation (no working!), and a burnt offering of 2 young bulls, 1 ram, 7 males lambs (year old no blemish), and the grain offerings. Plus a sin offering of a male goat. Also a drink offering.

Numbers 27

Numbers 27

1 - 11 The Daughters of Zelophehad

They thought they were being treated unfairly and the Lord agreed. The rules were changed as follows: "If a man dies, and has no son, then you shall pass his inheritance on to his daughter (8)." If there's no daughter, then it goes to the brothers, and then to the nearest kinsman of the clan.

12 - 23 Joshua Appointed Moses' Successor

Joshua is "a man in whom is the spirit" (18). In order to transfer authority, Moses lays his hands on him (Presbyterians, at least, still do this at ordination).

Numbers 26

Numbers 26

1 - 65 A Census of the New Generation

After the plague, Moses demands a census. (The census follows). Not one enrolled by Moses and Aaron in Sinai remain (except for Caleb) - For the Lord said of them, "They shall die in the wilderness."

Numbers 25

Numbers 25

1 - 18 Worship of Baal of Peor and the Incident of the Midianite Woman

The Israelites begin to mix with the women of Moab and begin to take on their faith. The Lord tells Moses to take the chiefs of the people and impale them in the sun. Moses tells the judges to kill any people who have "yoked themselves to the Baal of Peor."

An Isrealite brings a Midianite woman into the family in front of everyone. Phinehas (descendant of Aaron) pierces them with a spear, stopping the plague (24,000 died). For this action, Phinehas gets a covenant of peace from the Lord. The Lord tells Moses to harass and defeat the Midianites for deceiving the Isrealites.

Numbers 24

Numbers 24

1 - 14 Balaam's Third Oracle

Balaam's third oracle again establishes God's support for Israel: "Blessed is everyone who blesses you, and cursed is everyone who curses you." (9) Balak doesn't like what he hears and tries to send him away, but there's one more oracle. . .

15 - 25 Balaam's Fourth Oracle

Balaam's fourth oracle predicts that Israel will rule over the land. When Balaam is finished, then he goes away.

Numbers 23 / Psalm 50

Numbers 23

1 - 12 Balaam's First Oracle

Balaam tells Balak to build seven altars and prepare seven bulls and seven rams. Then the Lord speaks through him, saying that cursing Israel is wrong because God has blessed them. Balak's not happy with this because Balaam was under contractual obligation to curse his enemies.

13 - 50 Balaam's Second Oracle

So they try again. Again Israel is touted as God's people. "Look, a people rising up like a lioness, and rousing itself like a lion! It does not lies down until it has eaten the prey and drunk the blood of the slain." (24) I'm glad I'm not Lebanan right now.

Psalm 50

The Acceptable Sacrifice

This is like a lawsuit that states what God wants the sacrifice of praise followed by genuine obedience.

1 - 6 God summons the court.

7 - 15 God explains that he is God and doesn't "need" anything. What is required: "Offer praise as your sacrifice to God; fulfill your vows to the Most High. Then call on me in time of distress; I will rescue you, and you shall honor me." (14 - 15)

16 - 21 God rebukes the hypocritical whoshiper. I never want to hear this: "I accuse you, I lay the charge before you." (21)

22 - 23 A threat and a promise: "Understand this, you who forget God, lest I attack you with no one to rescue. Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me; to the obedient I will show salvation of God."

I don't think of sacrifice for God enough.

Numbers 22 / Psalm 49

Numbers 22

1 - 21 Balak Summons Balaam to Curse Israel

When Balak saw what Israel had done to the Amorites and Moab becomes fearful. Moab orders Israel cursed. Balaam is the diviner who blesses and curses - he refuses to curse because "I could not go beyond the command of the Lord my God." (18) God tells Balaam to go with the men and await further orders.

22 - 40 Balaam, the Donkey, and the Angel

This is the story of a donkey that can see more than the seer. The donkey sees the angel and first lays down and then speakes to Balaam. Then the Lord opens Balaam's eyes.

Psalm 49

Confidence in God rather than Riches

1 - 6 It looks like the rich have everything, but we must trust God.

8 - 10 It is wrong to rely on wealth

14 - 21 The rich seem to have everything now, but when they die, they will have nothing.

Numbers 21 / Psalms 48

Numbers 21

1 - 3 The Defeat of Arad

The Lord hands over the Canaanites to Isrealites since they make a vow unto the Lord.

4 - 9 The Bronze Serpent

When the Isrealites begin mumbling again, He sends poisonous serpents to bite them. They repent and the Lord tells Moses how to fight them by means of a bronze serpent. It's on a pole - whoever is bitten and looks upon the bronze serpent will live. (pretty nifty!)

10 - 20 The Journey to Moab

They go to Moab (singing a couple of songs on the way). The place overlooks a wasteland.

21 - 31 King Sihon Defeated

King Sihon is from the Amorites. My notes: "The Isreaites still need to move farther north in order to press their attack on Canaan from the east, and this brings them to the border of the Amorite territory.

33 - 35 King Og Defeated

King Og is from the Bashan, (another Amorite King). (I can't keep the current crisis in Isreal out of my head while reading all of this.

Psalm 48

The Glory and Strength of Zion

1 - 3 The psalmist praises the Lord and the beauty of Mount Zion.

4 - 8 The psalmist describes the kings' astonishment at the beauty of Zion and that the Lord established the city forever.

9 - 14 The psalmist praises the Lord's name and says one should consider the beauty of Zion so one can tell the next generation about the glory of the Lord.

Numbers 20 / Psalm 47

Numbers 20

1 - 13 Water from the Rock

Upon arrival at Kadesh in the Desert of Zin (Miriam dies), there is no water to drink. Of course the Isrealites complain, so Moses takes his staff and produces water. Bhe Lord tells Moses and Aaron that they will be denied land because of the Isrealites' lack of faith.

14 - 21 Edom Denies Israel Passage

Moses sent messengers from Kadesh to the king of Edom hoping for passage, but the king denies them passage. So they turn away from Edom.

22 - 29 The Death of Aaron

After they leave Kadesh, Aaron dies atop Mount Hor. The Isrealite community mourns for 30 days.

Psalm 47

1 - 4 Some great lines in this one! "Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth!" (1-2) Also, praise God for defeating our enemies!

5 - 9 Another music reference: "God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD amid the sounding of trumpets" (5) [sorry - nothing about trombones - or bassoons for that matter] The nobles of all nations asemble to praise God. (I guess this means all the tribes of Isreal).

Numbers 19 / Psalm 46

Numbers 19

1 - 22 The Water of Cleansing

The Lord commands them to sacrifice a red heifer. Also discussed is how to cleanse oneself after touching a corpse.

Psalm 46

God's Defense of His City and People

1 - 3 "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble" (1)

4 - 7 "Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts" (6)

8 - 11 "The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (11)

I'm sure a lot of folks in Isreal are thinking about this psalm given what's going on over there.

Numbers 18 / Psalm 45

Numbers 18

1 - 7 Responsibility of Priests and Levites

Aaron and his son's have responsibility over duties of the sanctuary and will bear the responsibility for offenses.

8 - 32 The Priests' Portion

What the priests can receive, including grain, sin, and guilt offerings - plus the best of the oil, wine, grain and first fruit offerings.

Psalm 45

Ode for a Royal Wedding

My notes say this is "a song forthe Davidic king's marriage to a foreign princess from Tyre in Phoenicia." They also say that "The psalm was retained in the collection when there was no reigning king, and came to be applied to the king who was to come, the messiah."

3 - 10 The psalmist thanks God for establishing divine rule and for his choice in king

11 - 13 The woman is to forget her house when she becomes wife to the king.

14 - 18 Her majestic beauty is a sign of future prosperity for the house.

Numbers 17 / Psalm 44

Numbers 17

1 - 12 The Budding of Aaron's Rod

The Lord tells Aaron to get 12 staffs from each tribe and place them in the tent before the covenant. The staff of the man the Lord chooses will sprout. Then next day, the staff of Aaron for the House of Levi had sprouted and bore ripe almonds. Moses gave all the staffs back, but the Lord told him to put Aaron's back before the covenant as a warning against further complaints. (Still, they seem to complain in verse 12, no?)

Psalm 44

National Lement and Prayer for Help

1 - 3 The nation has been afflicted and beaten.

4 - 8 The Psalmist affirms belief in God and dedication to him.

9 - 16 The pslamist says God has rejected his people and allowed them to be disgraced.

17 - 22 Still the psalmist's people have not forgotten God and they still praise him.

23 - 26 The psalmist asks the Lord to wake up and help his people.

This might seem blasphemous, but it displays real feelings and also real dedication from the psalmist. It reminds me of how I might have felt after 9/11.

Numbers 16 / Psalm 43

Numbers 16

1 - 50 The Revolt of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram

There is a revolt among the disobedient. The ground opens and swallows them. Then the Isrealites are still rebellious. In the end 4,700 are dead of the plague (not counting those who perished in the "Korah affair.)

Psalm 43

Again, we speak of the sanctity of the santuary. I'm convinced that I need to treat going to church with more reverence - as if it is a gift of God and not just something to do on Sunday morning.

1 - 2 The psalmist asks for vindication

3 - 4 The psalmist asks for "your light and your truth" to lead him so he can go to the altar and "praise you with the harp, O God, my God." (Let's hear it for music and worship)

5. Finally, the psalmist asks for more confidence in order to worship the Lord.

Numbers 15 / Psalm 42

Numbers 15

1 - 31 Various Offerings

Here is another list of offerings - burnt offerings, offerings of well-being. My notes say there is irony here - "this generation will not, in fact 'come into the land.'"

32 - 36 Penalty for Violating the Sabbath

A cautionary tale. A man is stoned for gathering sticks on the Sabbath. (The Lord told Moses to do it.) My notes say he was stoned so as not to disturb the sanctity of the camp. (This reminds me of the Pharisees getting mad at Jesus and the disciples for picking wheat on the Sabbath. I can see why they were upset).

37 - 41 Fringes on Garments

The Lord commands the Isrealites to make fringes on the corners of their garments to remind them to remember and follow the commandments. (I saw some orthodox Jews in NYC who still do this).

Psalm 42

Book II (Psalm 42 - 72)

Looking for God's Help in Distress (My notes: An individual prayer for help by one who is cut off from the presence of God and oppressed by enemies).

1 - 8 The psalm starts out with a great image: "As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God." The Psalmist is very discouraged: "My tears have been my food day and night" (3a).

9 - 11 The psalmist feels God has forgotten him and asks why. He ends with a commitment to praise God. "Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God" (11b).

Numbers 14 / Psalm 41

Numbers 14

1 - 12 The People Rebel

After the men give a bad report, the Isrealites become upset. Then they complain to Moses, and they want to go back to Egypt (Wow, they prefer bondage under the pharoah to fighting!). Moses reminds the congregation how good the land is and that "If the Lord is pleased with us, he will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that flows with milk and honey." He tells them not to rebel against the Lord. The people threaten to stone him. Later the Lord appears before Moses in the tent. "How long will this people despise me?" He promises to strike down the people in the land.

13 - 25 Moses Intercedes for the People

Moses suggests to God that if He forgives the people and helps them, everyone will see how great the Lord is. The Lord forgives them, but says that the people who saw the previous miracles and didn't obey him won't see the new land. He tells them to go to the wilderness.

26 - 45 An Attempted Invasion

They try to enter the land from the south, but fail.

Psalm 41

Assurance of God's Help and a Plea for Healing

1 - 3 The Psalmist praises the Lord for helping the sick and poor. Happy are those who consider the poor" - starts out like a Beatitude.

4 - 11 Many people believe that their illness is God's punishment and have given the psalmist a hard time.

12 - 13 But the psalmist knows that God is pleased with him because the enemy hasn't prevailed.

Verse 13 is a doxology for the end of the first book of psalms! "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen."

Numbers 13 / Psalm 40

Numbers 13

1 - 24 Spies Sent into Canaan

The Lord tells Moses to send a recon mission into Canaan, which he is giving to the Israelites. Moses sends the head of each tribe.

25 - 33 The Report of the Spies

Forty days later the spies return and tell of a land of milk and honey - but there are strong men there. Caleb suggests they occupy the land even though they're like grasshoppers to the giants in the land.

Psalm 40

Thanksgiving for Deliverance and Prayer for Help

1 - 3 The psalmist praises the lord for his deliverance. "I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry" (1).

4 - 8 Trust in the Lord! "Happy are those who make the Lord their trust, who do not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after false gods" (4)

9 - 12 The psalmist hasn't withheld the good news, so he asks the Lord not withhold His blessings.

13 - 17 The psalmist asks the Lord to be pleased with him and to strike his enemies. He wishes God to help those who seek him: "But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation say continually, "Great is the Lord!" (16)

Numbers 12 / Psalm 39

Numbers 12

1 - 16 Aaron and Miriam Jealous of Moses

Best joke in the Bible so far: "Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth" (3).

Miriam and Aaron (Moses' sister and brother) are upset because Moses married a Chushite woman (Zipporah). They think that the Lord could be "speaking" to them to. The Lord tells the three of them to have a meeting. He clears up that He's speaking to Moses face to face. After the Lord leaves, Miriam becomes leprous. Moses asks the Lord to heal her, but the Lord asks her to be shunned by the camp for seven days. Which they do.

Psalm 39

The Vanity of Life

1 - 3 My notes: "The lament of a mortally ill person who at first had resolved to be silently submissive." "I was silent and still; I held my peace to no avail; my distress grew worse . . " (2).

4 - 7 The grief becomes too much and the psalmist laments how brief and meaningless life is.

7 - 9 The psalmist remains hopeful: "And now, O Lord, what do I wait for? My hope is in you" (7).

10 - 13 The psalmist both accepts illness and hopes for healing.

Numbers 11 / Psalm 38

Numbers 11

1 - 15 Complaining in the Desert

The people start grumbling and the Lord hears it and becomes wrathful. The people talk to Moses who is able to calm the Lord. Meanwhile, the "foreign elements" eat all the meat.

16 - 30 The Seventy Elders

The Lord wishes to talk to Moses and seventy elders. There is trouble when there are complaints that Eldad and Medad are prophesying. Moses says, "Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all my people were prophets! Would that the Lord might bestow his spirit on them all!"

31 - 35 The Quails

God sends quail upon the wind, but "while the meat was still between their teeth," God becomes wrathful again and struck the people with a plague. The "greedy people" are buried there.

Psalm 38

Prayer for Wisdom and Forgiveness (of an Afflicted Sinner)

The psalmist asks for mercy for his sins. The psalmist's sin has caused him physical pain.

"Do not forsake me, O Lord; O my God, do not be far from me; make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation" (21 - 22).

Numbers 10 / Psalm 37

Numbers 10

1 - 10 The Silver Trumpets

God tells Moses to make silver trumpets for making and breaking camp. He tells them to blow them on days of celebration, festivals, etc. See how important music is to a worship service?

11 - 28 Departure from Sinai

Here begins the journey from Sinai to the Plains of Moab. They leave on the twentieth day of the second month of the second year. We see the order in which they travel.

29 - 32 Hobab as Guide

Moses offers Hobab the job, but he's coy and Moses has to coax him.

33 - 36 Into the Desert

They follow the cloud of the Lord for three days out of the mountains.

Psalm 37

The Fate of Sinners and the Reward of the Just

This psalm is about the problem of evil. We should reject evil and trust in the Lord. This would be a good psalm to read when I'm discouraged.

For example: "Turn from evil and do good, that you may inhabit the land forever. For the Lord loves justice and does not abandon the faithful" (27-28)

Numbers 9 / Psalm 36

Numbers 9

1 - 14 The Passover at Sinai

It's been a year and a month since Moses and the gang settled in Sinai. They celebrate the second passover before setting out on the march.

15 - 23 The Cloud and the Fire

A cloud covers the tabernacle (at night it's a fire). When the cloud lifts, the Isrealites set out on their march. When the cloud stops, they camp.

Psalm 36

Human Wickedness and Divine Providence

1 - 4 "Sin speaks to the wicked deep in their hearts" (Sin speaks to us all, but the wicked listen, hear, and obey . . .)

• don't fear God (1)
• flatter themselves that they won't be found out (2)
• speak mischief and have ceased to act wisely and do good (3)
• plot mischeif, are a no-good path, and don't reject evil (4)

5 - 12 God's steadfast love extends to the heavens; his righteousness is like mountains; God's love is steadfast. A good prayer: "O continue your steadfast love to those who know you."

Numbers 8 / Psalm 35

Numbers 8

1 - 4 The Lamps Set Up

Still planning on the move from Sinai. The Lord shows Moses how Aaron should set up the lamps.

5 - 22 Purification of the Levitesdo

This sounds a lot like Baptism to me, especially "the water of remission"(7) the cleanse one's sins.

23 - 26 Age Limits for Levitical Service

A Levite man will work in the meeting tent from age 25. After 50, he will still share responsiblities in the meeting tent, but will no longer do the work.

Psalm 35

Prayer for Help against Unjust Enemies My notes also state this is a "lament for a person betrayed by friends."

1 - 8 The psalmist prays for to overcome evil. Good image: "Make them like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them on" (5).

9 - 10 The psalmist gives thanks in anticipation of victory: "Then I will rejoice in the Lord, exult in God's salvation" (9)

11 - 16 People that the psalmist thought were friends have turned against him: "Yet when I stumbled they gathered with glee, gathered against me like strangers" (15).

17 - 21 The psalmist prays for punishment for his betrayers: " . . . Save me from roaring beasts, my precious life from lions" (17b).

22 - 26 The last part again prays for the enemies' destruction: "Put to shame and confound all who relish my misfortune. Clothe with shame and disgrace those who lord it over me" (26).

My notes: "The psalm may appear vindictive, but one must keep in mind that the psalmist is praying for public redress of a public injustice. There is at this time no belief in an afterlife in which justice will be redressed." (That didn't bother me as much as the feeling that the psalmist seems to be making a deal with God: If you smite my enemies, then I'll praise you.")

Numbers 7 / Psalm 34

Numbers 7

1 - 89 Offerings of the Leaders

What we have here is a list of all the offerings the Leaders of the 12 Tribes of Isreal made. Most interesting to me is the last verse: "When Moses went into the tent of meeting to speak with the Lord, he would hear the voice speaking to him above the mercy seat that was on the ark of the covenant from between the two cherubim; thus it spoke to him." Angels are there too.

Psalm 34

I Will Teach You the Fear of the Lord

It also contains this note: "Of David, when he feigned madness before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away." Also, "from each line beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. In the psalm one letter is missing and two are in reverse order.

1 - 4 The psalmist praises the Lord. "I will bless the Lord at all times; praise will be always in my mouth" (2).

5 - 11 The psalmist states that he looked to the Lord, and other should do the same. God will make them powerful. "Look to God that you may be radiant with joy and your faces may not blush with shame" (6).

12 - 23 God will give them protection. "No on is condemned whose refuge is God" (23).

Numbers 6 / Psalm 33

Numbers 6

1 - 22 Laws Concerning Nazirites

Here are the rules for dedicating one's life to the Lord as a Nazirite. My notes: "Nazirite: from the Hebrew word nazir, meaing 'set apart as sacred, dedicated, vowed.' The nazirite vow could be either for a limited period or for life. Those bound by this vow had to abstain from all the products of the grapevine, from cutting or shaving their hair, and from contact with a corpse. They were regarded as men of God like the prophets." Examples of Nazirites: Samson (the hair! natch!) and John the Baptist. My notes also state that at the time of Christ it was common too take the nazirite vow for a limited time. (See Acts 18: 18 for Paul's vow)

22 - 27 The Priestly Blessing

This is how the Lord wishes the Isrealites to be blessed (Funny, I always thought this was the Irish Blessing. . . ):

The Lord bless you and keep you!
The Lord let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!
The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!

Psalm 33

Praise of God's Power and Providence

1 - 5 Let's praise God through music! (This might be a good psalm to open our A.T. Bible Study).
6 - 7 God created the heavens just by breathing a word (See John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."

8 - 22 God is in control: "The Lord foils the plans of nations, frustrates the designs of peoples" (10). God has a plan: "But the plan of the Lord stands forever, wise designs through all generations" (11). Bucking against that plan only leads to unhappiness: "Happy the nation whose God is the Lord, the people chosen as his very own" (12).

My notes: "The greatness of human beings consists in God's choosing them as a special people and their faithful response." "For in God our hearts rejoice; in your holy name we trust" (21).

Numbers 5 / Psalm 32

Numbers 5

1 - 4 Unclean Persons

Anyone who is impure or who has had contact with the impure must be put outside the camp.

5 - 10 Confession and Restitution

My notes say this is a supplement to Leviticus 6.1-7 in case the injured party has died or there's no next of kin.

11 - 31 Concerning an Unfaithful Wife

Here's what to do when a woman is suspected of adultry: Bring her to the priest and offer a cereal offering of jealousy. The priest will have the woman stand before the Lord and place the offering in his hands. If she is guilty, the water of bitterness will have a negative effect on her body; if she's truthful, the water will have no effect. My notes say the symptoms in 21 describe a prolapsed uterus. The punishment for the guilty is the inability to bear children.

Hmn, let's move on to the psalm . . .

Psalm 32

Remission of Sin

1 - 2 Happy are those who are forgiven

3 - 7 "As long as I kept silent, my bones wasted away. At one time the psalmist was stubborn, and a victim of his sin, but once he opened himself he My notes: "Sin here, as often in the Bible, is not only the personal act of rebellion against God but also the consequences of that act - frustration and waning of vitality.

8 - 11 The psalmist wishes to teach others about the stupidity of sin. "Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you just; exult, all you upright in heart."

Numbers 4 / Psalm 31

Numbers 4

1 - 20 The Kohathites

The Lord tells Moses to separate the Kohathites from the others so they can look over "the most holy things" Then how to set up the tent of meeting is described.

21 - 33 The Gershonites and Merarites

Here is the census of the Gershonites and Merarites aged 30 to 50 and the items they are to transport.

34 - 49 Census of the Levites

Here are the stats!

Psalms 31

Prayer for Distress and Thanksgiving for Escape

1 - 9 The psalmist puts total trust in God. "You are my rock and my fortress" (4)

6: "Into your hands I commend my spirit" Jesus' last words. My notes say that Stephen also alludes to this verse in Acts 7:59 as he is attacked by enemies. Pretty neat to study the same psalm that meant to much to Jesus and the early Christians.

10 - 19 The Psalmist asks God for mercy and reaffirms his trust in God. 13: "I am like a shattered dish" - that's feeling pretty useless.

20 - 25 The Psalmist is certain of God's help and prays thanksgiving in anticipation. 25: "Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord."

Numbers 3 / Psalm 30

Numbers 3

1 - 4 The Sons of Aaron

Aaron's sons: Nadab (first-born), Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar (remember what happened to Nadab & Abihu in Lev. 10).

5 - 13 Levites in Place of the First-born

They're in charge of the service, furnishings, etc. at the tabernacle.

14 - 51 Census and Ransom of First-born

A Census of the Levites is described as well as their duties. My notes: The Levites are substitutes for first-born males. Since the Levite could redeem only one firstborn male, a ransom of five shekels each had to be paid.

Psalm 30

Thanksgiving for Deliverance

1 - 4 The psalmist praises and thanks for deliverance and restoration.

5 - 6 The psalmist invites other to join in "for divine anger lasts but a moment, but divine favor lasts a lifetime."

7 - 11 The psalmist remembers the time before deliverance.

12 - 13 The psalmist returns to praise and thanksgiving: "With my whole being I sing praise to you."

Numbers 2 / Psalm 29

Numbers 2

The Order of Encampment and Marching

The Lord tells Moses and Aaron how the Isrealites should encamp and the order in which they should march. (If only we had this kind of authority during drill band rehearsal . . . .)

Psalms 29

Glory to God!

1 - 2 The psalmist ascribes to the Lord glory and strength

3 - 9 The Lord is over the water, His voice is powerful (and breaks trees), and flashes forth flames of fire. The Lord's voice shakes the wilderness.

10 - 11 "The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace" (11).

Numbers 1 / Psalm 28

Numbers

My notes: "(Numbers) continues the story of that journey, begun in Exodus, and describes briefly the experiences of the Israelites for a period of eighty years, from the end of their encampment at Sinai to their arrival at the border of the Promised Land. Numerous legal ordinances are interspersed in the account, making the book a combination of law and history.

Numbers 1

1 - 3 The Census

God commands Moses to take a census, dividing the Israelite males into clans.

4 - 19 Moses' Assistants

Moses gets a list of the men from each tribe who will help him with the census.

20 - 46 Count of the Twelve Tribes

Here's the list, divided by each tribe!

47 - 54 Levites Omitted in the Census

God says the Levites are to carry the Dwelling of the Commandments - NIV says the tabernacle of the Testimony (the Ark of the Covenant?). My notes say this was for military purposes and a separate census was mad for them in Numbers 3.

Psalm 28

Petition and Thanksgiving

1 - 5 The psalmist doesn't want to be dragged off with the wicked.

6 - 7 Good lines: "Blessed be the Lord who has heard the sound of my pleading. The Lord is my strength and my shield, in whom my heart trusted and found help. So my heart rejoices; with my song I praise God."

8 The psalmist asks the Lord to save His people. My notes: "salvation is more than individual, affecting all the people and their God-given leader."

Leviticus 27 / Psalm 27

Leviticus 27

Votive Offerings and Dedications

The last chapter seems to bring a bunch of rules that either didn't fit before or were left out. My notes state that a lot of these rules apply to the value of slaves.

Psalm 27

Trust in God

1 - 3 The psalmist expresses hope that God will bring rescue

4 - 6 The psalmist expresses shelter from his enemies

7 - 10 Good line: "Even if my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will take me in."

11 - 14 A good stanza about patience: "Wait for the Lord, take courage; be stouthearted, wait for the Lord!"

Leviticus 26 / Psalm 26

Leviticus 26

1 - 13 Rewards for Obedience

God promises prosperity, safety, and His Presence if His commandments are kept.

14 - 46 Penalties for Disobedience

Terrible woes, disaster, hunger, and more are promised if the commandments are not kept.

Psalm 26

Prayer of Innocence

1 - 3 The Psalmist asks for justice since he is blameless and faithful. My notes: "Like a priest washing before approaching the altar, the psalmist seeks God's protection upon entering the temple."

4 - 8 The Psalmist reminds God of his past faithfulness.

9 - 12 The Psalmist asks for mercy and separation from those who aren't faithful.