Judges 3

1 - 6 The Nations the Lord allowed to Remain

A list of the nations the Lord allows to remain.

7 - 11 Othniel

Othniel, son of Caleb's younger brother is allowed to save the Isrealites. Afterward, the land is at rest for 40 years.

12 - 30 Ehud

Once again the Isrealites offend the Lord. When they cry out, the Lord raises a savior, the Benjaminte Ehud. Ehud goes to Moab King Eglon's upper room and sinks a two edged sword in his fat belly. The land is at rest for 80 years.

31 Shamgar

Shamgar slays 600 Philistines with an oxgoad to rescue Israel.

Judges 2

Infidelities of the Isrealites

After Joshua dies, the generations abandon the Lord and begin to serve other gods including Baal and the Ashtaroth. This angers God, who doesn't allow them to prosper - he keeps them where they are instead of expelling or delivering Israel. When Israel repents, he sends the Judges to deliver them.

This applies to us - when the Isrealites obey the commandments, they prosper, when they don't, their enemies oppress them.

Judges 1

My notes: The Book of Judges derives its title from the twelve heroes of Israel whose deeds it records. They were not magistrates, but military leaders sent by God to aid and to relieve his people in time of external danger. They exercised their activities in the interval of time between the death of Joshua and the institution of the monarchy in Israel.

More from my notes: The purpose of the book is to show that the fortunes of Israel depended upon the obedience or disobedience of the people to God's law. Whenever they rebelled against him, they were oppressed by pagan nations; when they repented, he raised up judges to deliver them.

1 - 8 Israel's Failure to Complete the Conquest of Canaan

After Joshua dies, the Isrealites ask who should fight against the Canaanites. The Lord says the job should go to Judah. Judah takes his brother Simeon with him to fight the Canaanites. They fight Adoni-bezek (Lord of Bezek) and they cut off his thumbs and big toes (Adoni-Bezek says, "Seventy kings with their thumbs and big toes cut off used to pick up scraps from my table: as I have done, so God has paid me back.")

Then we get more recap of the events of Joshua - battles won and lost. . .

Joshua 24

1 - 28 The Covenant of Shechem

Joshua gathers all the tribes at Shechem. We get another great summary of "the story so far." Then he admonishes them to remain loyal to the Laws of Moses. The people are a little stubborn and Joshua has to argue with them a bit.

29 - 33 The Deaths of Joshua and Eleazer.

Joshua dies at 110. He is buried at Timnath-serah. Joseph's bones are buried at Shechem (on ground that cost 100 pieces of money - the value of the money is unknown). Eleazor, son of Aaron, dies and is buried at Gibeah.

Joshua 23

1 - 16 Joshua's Farewell Address

A long time later, "when the Lord had given rest to Israel from their enemies all around," Joshua summons all Israel for a farewell address. He reminds them that the Lord gave them the land and that they must "be very steadfast to observe and do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses." They must love the Lord and not intermarry into the survivors of the nations they overran, or the Lord will not continue to drive these nations away, "but they shall be a scourge on your sides, and thorns in your eyes, until you perish from this good land that the Lord you God has given you." He tells them he is about to die, and reminds them again what will happen if they bow down to other gods: "then the anger of the Lord will be kindled quickly from the good land that he has given to you."

Question: Why does Joshua give a similar warning two times in his speech? What's the difference in the two?

Joshua 22

1 - 9 Joshua thanks the Reubenites, Gadites and half of Manassah for a job well done and blesses them. The two and a half tribes leave with their booty.

10 - 34 The Incident of the Altar by the Jordan

They reach the Jordan in Canaan and build "a conspicuously large altar" When the tribes west of the Jordan hear about it, they decide gather at Shiloh to go to war against them.

(My notes: "the western Israelites considered this altar, which seemed to violate the customary unity of the sanctuary as a sign of secession and dangerous to national unity. The motives for the war were political as well as religious.")

Before they take action, the westerners send Phinehas the High Priest & representatives to confront the easterners. At issue: "You have seceded from the LORD this day, and rebelled against him by building an altar of your own!" He reminds the Easterners that all of Isreal was punished for Peor. He tells them that if they think their land unclean, then they should cross over the river and not anger the Lord by building a second altar.

The easterners respond by saying that their true reason for building the altar was as a memorial, not as a place of sacrifice, "not for holocausts or for sacrifices, but as evidence for you on behalf of ourselves and our descendants, that we have the right to worship the LORD in his presence with our holocausts, sacrifices, and peace offerings."

This satisfies the Isrealites, and the "Reubenites and the Gadites gave the altar its name as a witness among them that the LORD is God." (My notes: The name of this altar was the Hebrew word for "witness").

Joshua 21

The leaders of Levi's ask for their allotment. Cities are appointed to them, according to three main family divisions: Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites. They are "sprinkled" among the rest of the tribes.

My notes: The order to establish special cities for the Levites is given in Numbers 35: 1-8. The forty-eight cities listed here were hardly the exclusive possession of the Levites; at least the more important of them, such as Hebron, Shechem and Ramoth in Gilead, were certainly peopled for the most part by the tribe in whose territory they were situated. But in all these cities the Levites had special property rights which they did not possess in other cities.

Joshua 20

1 - 9 The Cities of Refuge

Remember the 6 towns God told Moses to set up for asylum "so, there is a that a slayer who kills a person without intent may flee there. (Numbers 35)". Joshua does this. This will prevent blood feuds

It's good to see he's following Moses' (God's) law.

Joshua 19

1 - 9 The Territory of Simeon (2nd Lot)

10 - 16 The Territory of Zebulun (3rd Lot)

17 - 23 The Territory of Issachar (4th Lot)

24 - 31 The Territory of Asher (5th Lot)

32 - 39 The Territory of Naphtali (6th Lot)

40 - 48 The Territory of Dan (7th Lot)

29 - 51 Joshua's Inheritance

Joshua is given the town of Timnathserah in Ephraim as commanded by the Lord.

Yeah, a map would help. It would be neat to see these places.

Joshua 18

1 - 10 The Territories of the Remaining Tribes

The congregation met at Shiloh, and Joshua asked how long the remaining 7 tribes were going to be slack in taking their territory. He asked for 3 men from each tribe to send on a reconnaissance mission. From their description, Joshua would cast lots before God.

11 - 28 The Territory of Benjamin

Benjamin got his share. First his portion is described, and then the towns.

Joshua 17

1 - 13 The Other Half-Tribe of Manasseh (West)

The Tribe of Manasseh gets its allocations. The daughters of Zelophehad quarrel - they want their fair share since their family had no male heirs. There are more problems with the Canaanites - they just won't leave! They made slaves of them too.

14 - 18 The Tribe of Joseph Protests

Joseph's people (Tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim) still aren't satisfied (verses 14-18). They want even more land. Joshua suggests whoever conquers the hills, gets it. They say they are numerous and need more land. Joshua says, "You are inded a numerous people, and have great power; you shall not have one lot only, but the hill country shall be yours, for though it's a forest, you shall clear it and possess it to its farthest borders; for you shall drive out the Canaanites, though they have chariots of iron, and though they are strong."

Joshua 16

1 - 10 The Territory of Ephraim

The Josephites (Manassah and Ephraim) get their inheritance (My notes say the Ephraimites are named after one of the two sons of the two sons of Joseph who take the place of "Levi" in the roster). The chapter ends with a failure: They weren't able to drive the Canaanites from Gezer, but the Canaanites within Ephraim have been made to do forced labor.

Joshua 15

1 - 12 The Territory of Judah

Judah gets the best part and carefully skirts Jerusalem in the South (according to my notes).

13 - 19 Caleb Occupies His Portion

Caleb announced that whoever took Kiriath-sepher would get his daugher Achsah as a wife. Orthniel (son of Kenaz, brother of Caleb - nephew?) did so and won Achsah. She asked her father for the land of Negeb with springs of water, and he gave her the upper and lower springs.

20 - 63 The Towns of Judah

My notes: "This list of towns belonging to Judah . . . is probably based on later administration organization of the kingdom of Judah.

Joshua 14

1 - 5 The Distribution of the Territory West of the Jordan

6 - 15 Hebron Allotted to Caleb

As promised by Moses . . .

Joshua 13

1 - 33 The Land is Allotted to the Tribes of Isreal

When Joshua gets "old and advanced in years," the the Lord describes Parts of Canaan Still Unconquered (1 - 7). Then the land is divided. (Levi gets no inheritance)

8 - 14 The Territory East of the Jordan
15 - The Territory of Reuben
24 - The Territory of Gad
29 - 33 The Territory of the Half-Trive of Manasseh (East)

More divisions tomorrow . . .

Joshua 12

1 - 6 The Kings Conquered by Moses

The Great Old Testament Scorecard Moses: Moses 2 (King Sihon & King Og)

7 - 24 the Kings Conquered by Joshua

Joshua = 31 (We have a winner!!!)

Joshua 11

1 - 15 The United Kings of Northern Canaan Defeated

Just as they did in the south, the Israelites defeat the northern kingdoms. God tells them not to be afraid, that He will hand them over to Israel - which he does. Joshua kills the leaders and people but doesn't burn the towns as the Lord commaded.

16 - 23 Summary of Joshua's Conquests

Basically, Joshua annihilated the North as he did the South. "For it was the Lord's doing to harden their hearts so that they would come against Israel in battle, in order that they might be utterly destroyed, and might receive no mercy, but be exterminated, just as the Lord commanded Moses. (20)

Question: What do you think of the following passage? (I got it off of wikipedia - it seemed to relieve me from being uncomfortable with the genocide going on in Joshua.)

Christian theologians have tended to emphasise what they see as the progressive nature of revelation in the Bible. As the Bible progresses, God is seen to reveal himself in ways that are fuller, clearer and more accurate, culminating in the ultimate revelation of God in Jesus Christ. God's command through Joshua to take possession of the land by force of arms is viewed in the context of God's command through the second Joshua, Jesus Christ, to bring about his kingdom through the peaceful application of his teaching.

Joshua 10

Good Summary, J.P.!

1 - 15 Joshua's Defense of Gibeon

Joshua must go against great odds to fight the five kingdoms that combined against them.

16 - 27 Five Kings Defeated

The 5 kings hide in a cave and Joshua roots them out and kill them.

28 - 43 Victories in the South

Joshua and the Isrealites defeat kingdom after kingdom. In answer to your question, J.P: "Joshua took all these kings and their land at one time, because the Lord God of Israel fought for Israel. (42)"

Joshua 9

1 - 27 The Gibeonites Save Themselves by Trickery

The kings beyond Jordan gather to fight Joshua and Israel. But the Gibeonites dress shabbily and trick the Isrealites into making a treaty with them so they can live among them. Three days later Joshua finds out and makes them "hewers of wood and drawers of water" (slaves).

My notes say that what comes in the next chapter is important to understanding this.

Question?

Joshua 8

1 - 29 Ai Captured by a Stratagem and Destroyed

God tells Joshua to take Ai (but only spoil and livestock may they take). Joshua and Israel strictly obey God's orders and they're victorious. It was a slaughter, ending with 12,000 Aian's dead & its king hanging from a tree.

30 - 35 Joshua Renews the Covenant

Joshua builds an altar to God on Mount Ebel and reads the words of Moses' law to Israel.

Question of the Day: Why is it important that Moses law was read to the people of Israel?

Joshua 7

1 - 26 The Sin of Achan and Its Punishment

Achan (of Judah) took some "devoted things." Israel is punished for this when about 36 men are killed when they attack Ai. Joshua responds by tearing his clothes. He asks God how this could happen? Didn't they have a covenant. God replies that Israel had sinned and broken the covenant, and orders them to sanctify themselves (including the burning of Achan). All of Israel stone him and burn him. The stones were piled up and the place was named The Valley of Achor (Trouble - [with a capital "T" which rhymes with "P" . . . ).

Question of the Day: Question?

Joshua 6

1 - 27 Jericho Taken and Destroyed

The Lord commands Joshua to have the warriors circle the city once (for 6 days) with 7 priests, bearing 7 trumpets of rams' horns before the ark. On the seventh day they may blast the trumpets and the people may shout, and the wall of the city will fall so the people may charge ahead. And this is exactly what happens. (They also rescue Rahab and all that are in her house). Finally Joshua curses the city.

Question of the Day: This action takes 7 days are there other actions in scripture that take 7 days? How does this compare to those?

Joshua 5

2 - 12 Circumcision and Passover

The Lord tells Joshua to make flint knives and recircumcise the Israelites. This is done because all of the original circumcised warriors had died and they didn't circumcise the next generation on the road. After this is done, the Lord says, "Today I have rolled away from you the disgrace of Egypt." (The place is named Gilgal, which means "roll"). Then the Israelites then celebrate the Passover.

13 - 15 Joshua's Vision

Once when Joshua was by Jericho, he has a vision of the Commander of the Army of the Lord, who says, "Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy." (Joshua does this).

Question of the Day?

Joshua 4

1 - (5:1) Israel at Gilgal

Once the nation crosses Jordan, the Lord tells Joshua to select 12 men (1 from each tribe) to take a stone to the middle of the Jordan and place them in the middle of the Jordan. 14: On that day the Lord exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel; and they stood in awe of him, as they had stood in awe of Moses, all the days of his life.

Then the Lord tells Joshua to command the ark-bearing priests to step out of the Jordan and once they do, the Jordan fills its banks once again.

Question of the Day: What do the stones mean?

Joshua 3

1 - 17 Israel Crosses the Jordan

The Isrealites set out and after (another!) three days, Joshua commands the people to follow the Ark of the Covenant.

God speaks to Joshua and tells him he's in charge of the Ark of the Covenant and that that "when you come to the edge of the waters of the Jordan, you shall stand still in the Jordan." He tells the Isrealites and they select 12 men from the tribes, 1 from each tribe - when their feet rest in the waters, the Jordan will stand still. This happens and Isreal crosses the Jordan.

Question of the Day: Are there any parallels between this story and baptism?

Joshua 2

1 - 24 Spies Sent to Jericho

Joshua sends two spies to Jericho. They spend the night at a prostitute name Rahab who protects them when the king of Jericho is looking for them. She asks that they spare her family, and they say that they will "deal kindly" with her (my notes say that this consitutes a covenant relationship between them).

Rahab helps them escape and they go into the hill country for three days before returning to Joshua to tell him that the land is theirs and its inhabitants "melt in fear" before them.

Question of the day: Are there any parallels with the gospels in this chapter?

Joshua 1

1 - 11 God's Commission to Joshua

Moses has died. The Lord spoke to Joshua, son of Nun, and told him to take the Isrealites into the promised land. He tells them several times to be "strong and courageous." (Verse 9 is particularly comforting to me: I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."). Joshua then passes this message on to the people.

12 - 18 Address to the Transjordanian Tribes

Joshua reminds the Transjordanian Tribes (Those who settled east of the Jordan) that the Lord has commanded this. And they reply that they will do as Joshua commanded and anyone who rebels will be put to death.

2 Corinthians 13

1 - 10 Further Warning

I like verse 5: "Examine yourselves to see wheter you are living in faith. test yourselves. . . "

11 - 13 Final Greetings and Benediction

"Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace."

See y'all at A.T.!

2 Corinthians 12

1 - 10 Paul's Visions and Revelations


To keep Paul from being too boastful, a messenger of Satan has given him a thorn in his flesh. Paul appealed to God, but God said, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." This is a good lesson for when we feel that we don't have this or that. (I get caught up in this every day).

11 - 13 The Signs of a True Apostle


"The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with utmost patience, signs and wonders and mighty works." (12)

14 - 21 Paul's Concern for the Corinthian Church

Paul is concerned about quarreling, jealousy, anger, selfishness, slander, gossip, conceit, and disorder. Also that folks haven't repented from impurity, sexual immorality, and licentiousness that they have practiced. (My notes give references to other "vice lists" in the Bible)

2 Corinthians 11

1 - 15 Paul and the False Apostles

Paul begins by giving an analogy of a wedding. (the church is the husband & the Corinthians are the "chaste virgin"). Then he says a "serpent" deceived the Eve, and they began to subsribe to "another gospel" (it is unfortunate that Paul doesn't tell us specifically what that teaching is . . . )
Paul states how he will work against "false boasters" and their "deceitful gospels" (Even Satan disguises himself as and angel of light).

16 - 33 Paul's Sufferings as an Apostle

Paul goes over his credentials again. (He even mentions the time he escaped from the governor via a basket from the window!)

2 Corinthians 10

1 - 18 Paul Defends His Ministry

Paul defends the criticsim that he is boasting. He's simply telling it like it is. I like the quote from Jeremiah: (17) "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."

2 Corinthians 9

1 - 15 The Collection for Christians at Jerusalem

Another "minute for mission." 6. ". . . the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will reap bountifully."

My notes say this chapter might have been a separate letter (to Achaia).

2 Corinthians 8

1 - 15 Encouragement to Be Generous

Paul talks about the importance of being generous, especially in sharing the gospel. My notes state that when he mentions "sharing" in verse 4, it can be used to describe Christ, his body and blood, and his sufferings.

Later (14) Paul talks about a "fair balance" - that we shouldn't have too much abundance when there are others in need.

16 - 24 Commendation of Titus

Good old Titus!

2 Cornithians 7

2 - 4 The Appeal Resumed

Paul continues his appeal for the Corinthians to open their hearts.

5 - 16 Paul's Joy at the Church's Repentance

Paul states that he is not sorry his letter brought sadness because it caused the church to repent. He tells how grief and sorrow can lead to repentance (and therefore joy)

2 Cornithians 6

1 - 10 The Ministry of Reconciliation (continued)

Now is "an acceptable time" to accept the grace of God!

11 - 13 An Appeal to the Heart

Since Paul is speaking from the heart, he asks the Corinthians to open their hearts to him.

14 - (7:1) The Temple of the Living God

Paul warns about being "mismatched" with unbelievers. It is hard to be a Christian when around unbelievers. Paul asks that we "cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and of spirit, making holiness perfect in the fear of God."

2 Corinthians 5

(4:16) - 10 Living by Faith

"Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day." Paul insists that even though we are getting older and will die, there is the promise of a greater life in God later. "5. He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee."

Paul states that we walk by faith and not by sight.

11 - 21 Ministry by Reconciliation

We must preach the gospel and (16) "regard no one from a human point of view"

Good line for memorization: (17) "So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!"

God conconciled himself through Christ - that in is Christ He reconciled the world. Here it is - the line that states that Jesus died for our sins!

2 Corinthians 4

1 - 6 The Glory of God and the Gospel

". . . the god of the world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." This is why it is hard for unbelievers to see the truth of the Gospel. This reminds me of the OT when God "hardened the heart" of Pharoah.

5. "For we do not proclaim ourselfs; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus' sake." All glory goes to God. The final line of this section is good for memorization: For it is the God who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."

7 - 15 Treasure in Clay Jars

Since clay jars are so cheap and fragile this is a good metaphor for having something precious in something that will break so easily.

2 Corinthians 3

1 - 3 Paul's Credentials

Paul mentions his "letters of recommendation." My notes say he uses "letter" as metaphors in which (1) the community is Paul's letter of recommendation; (2) they are a letter engraved on his affections for all to see and read; (3) they are a letter from Christ that Paul merely delivers; (4) they are a letter written by the Spirit on the tablets of human hearts.

4 - 18 Confidence toward God

Any qualifications we have come from God.

Paul speaks against those whoe appeal to the Moses but don't see any comparable glory in Paul's life as an apostle or in the gospel he preaches. Paul says that Christians have a glory of their own that far surpasses that of Moses. "To this day, in fact, whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their hearts, but whenever a person turns to the Lord the veil is removed." (15 - 16)

Great Quote: "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. All of us, gazing with unveiled face on the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, as from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Remember Moses and his veiled face. We are being transformed into the image of God.

2 Corinthians 2

1 - 17 Pain etc.

Paul says he didn't want to come when there was pain.

Some good advice: "If anyone has caused pain, he has caused it not to me, but in some measure (not to exaggerate) to all of you. This punishment by the majority is enough for such a person, so that on the contrary you should forgive and encourage him instead, or else the person may be overwhelmed by excessive pain. Therefore, I urge you to reaffirm your love for him." (5 - 8)

Great metaphor: "For we are the aroma of Christ for God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing . . ." (Let's hope it doesn't smell "fishy")

Question of the day. Since it easier to punish those who cause pain or to "forgive and encourage him" what are some strategies to forgive?

2 Corinthians 1

1 - 11 Paul's Greeting

Paul must be speaking who are suffering because he says, "For as Christ's sufferings overflow to us, so through Christ does our encouragement also overflow." (5)

12 - 24 Paul's Conduct

Paul apologizes for not going to Corinth. And for being "wishy-washy" - "Or do I make my plans according to human considerations, so that with me it is "yes, yes" and "no, no"? As God is faithful, 11 our word to you is not "yes" and "no." (17-18)

Deuteronomy 34

1 - 12 Moses' Departure and Epitaph

Moses goes to Mount Nebo and dies at the age of 120 (he still had good eyesight and "vigor." He was burried in a valley in the land of Moab, (but know one knows exactly where).

Joshua (full of the spirit of wisdom) does as the Lord commanded Moses.

Never since has there arisen a prophet in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face. He was unequaled for all the signs and wonders that the Lord sent him to perfrom in the land of Egypt, against Pharaoh and all his servants and his entire land, and for all the mighty deeds and nd all the terrifying displays of power that Moses performed in the sign of all Israel (10 - 12).

Question of the Day: Name three things that Moses did.

Deuteronomy 33

1 - 29 Moses' Testamentary Blessing

This is Moses' blessing of each tribe of Israel.

26. "There is none like God . . . (27) He subdues the ancient gods, shatters the forces of old; he drove out the enemy before you and said, "Destroy!"

29. "Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord, the shield of your help, and the sword of your triumph! Your enemies shall come fawind to you and you shall tread on their backs."

Deuteronomy 32

Congratulations, Fireboy!

Victoria "Tori" Grace. 5/13/07

She's beautiful, man!

1 - 51 The Song of Moses

Moses sings the song about the relationship between God and Jacob (Israel). God sustains Jacob in time of need. Then Jacob becomes fat and sacfrices to strange gods. The Lord becomes jealous spurns Jacob's sons and daughters. He says, "I will hide my face from them." In the end, "the Lord will vindicate his people, have compassion on his servents when he sees that their power is gone . . . " (36) God will protect His people. Praise the Lord!

Moses recites the song to the people and tells them to take heart of them and command their children to keep God's law.

God tells Moses to climb Mount Nebo and die there (as Aaron died on Mount Hor). There he can view the land God promised the Isrealites, but he may not enter.

Deuteronomy 31

1 - 29 Acts of Conveyance and Investiture

When Moses finishes speaking, he says to them that since he's getting old (120! Trivia from my notes: a) it's 3 generations and b) it's the maximum age allowed to humans according to Genesis 6:3), God has told him not to cross the river Jordan. The Lord will cross instead and destroy any nation against Israel.

Moses summons Joshua and tells him to be strong.

Moses writes down the law and gives it to the priests & sons of Levi, who carry it to the Ark. He commands them to read it every 7 years (At the rate we're going that will be about the time we get back to it . . . ).

God tells Moses his time to die is near. He asks for Joshua to be commissioned. He tells Moses that after he dies, the Isrealites will forsake him again and turn to other gods. He tells Moses to write a song so that the Israelites won't forget. The commissions Joshua and Moses writes the song and teaches it to the Israelites. Moses asks for the Law to be put beside the Ark of the Covenant and he calls an assembly.

Question of the Day: Moses knows he is going to die. In what way does he prepare for the Law to go on after him. Can we do similar things in our lives?

Deuteronomy 30

1 - 20 Prescriptions for Renewal of Covenant

Moses tells the Isrealites what will happen if they keep the Covenant. (A convincing chapter) If you keep the commandment "then the Lord your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you . . . (3) Even if you are exiled to the ends of the worls, from there the Lord your God will gather you, and from there he will bring you back. (4)" The Lord will circumsise your hearts so you will love the Lord.

11 - 14. Surely keeping the commandments aren't too hard for you.

15 - 20. Moses has set before the Isrealites life and prosperity but also death and adversity. If they obey God, they will prosper, but if they turn away, they shall perish.

Question of the Day: What does it mean that the Lord will "circumsise your heart" (6)?

Deuteronomy 29

1 - 29 The Covenant Enacted at Moab

This chapter begins the conclusion of the book. Moses summons Isreal and sums up how they've heard the story. He tells them they are each individually accountable to keep God's law. He also warns them about what will happen if they break God's law. 29: "The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the revealed things belong to us and to our children forever, to observe all the words of this law."

Question of the day: I like how Moses describes the Israelites' disobediance as stubborness. In what ways does sin sprout from stubborness?

Deuteronomy 28

1 - 46 Covenental Blessings and Curses

My notes: "The blessings affirm that national security, prosperity, and political preeminence are intrinsic consequences of Israel's fidelity to the covenant relationship." English: You do good and good things will happen to you.

On the other hand, if you don't do good; bad things will happen (curses).

47 - 68 Scenarios of Curse

If Israel doesn't follow the covenant, it will be reversed by God.

Question of the Day: J.P.?

Deuteronomy 27

1 - 26 Rites of Reaffirmation

Moses charges the elders of Isreal to cross into Jordan and . . . Post the 10 Commandments!

Cursed be:

• Anyone who makes an idol (15)
• Anyone who dishonors his parents (16)
• Anyone who moves his neighbor's boundary marker (17)
• Anyone who misleads a blind person (18)
• Anyone who deprives an alien (illegal immigrant?), orphan and widow of justice (19)
• Anyone who lies with an animal, his father's wife, sister, mother-in-law (20 - 23)
• Anyone who strikes down a neighbor in secret (24)
• Anyone who takes a bribe to shed blood (25)
• Anyone who does not uphold the words of this law by observing them (26)

Question of the Day: How do the curses relate to the 10 commandments?

Deuteronomy 26

1 - 15 Litergical Declarations

This is the concluding section of all the rules. It describes what to do upon entry into the promised land. The giving of tithes is very important here.

16 - 19 Ratification of the Covenant

"This day the LORD, your God, commands you to observe these statutes and decrees. Be careful, then, to observe them with all your heart and with all your soul." This is and agreement with the LORD. He is to be your God and you are to walk in his ways and observe his statutes, commandments and decrees, and to hearken to his voice. But also the LORD is making this agreement with the Isrealites. God promises to raise them high "in praise and renown and glory above all other nations he has made," and that they will be a people sacred to the LORD.

Question of the Day: We think a lot about what is required of us in the covenant of God. What is required of God? Does he deliver?

Deuteronomy 25

1 - 4 Personal Dignity and Welfare (continued)

If two people have a fight, then a judge should decide the punishment. Being flogged is okay as long as there are no more than 40 lashes (which would degrade the offender).

Don't muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain (?)

5 - 10 Levirate Marriage

If a brother dies and leaves a wife childless, then the brother should marry her and the firstborn should succeed to the name of the dead brother. If the man doesn't want to marry her, she should go to the gate and tell everyone. The elders should spit in face. (Brothers should take care of widows).

11 - 12 Immodest Assault

Yikes!

13 - 16 Honest Weights and Measures

Be honest when you trade. Don't steal.

17 - 19 Extirpation of Amalek

Don't forget the troubles of the past.

Question of the Day: How are the penalties mentioned in this chapter equal to the "crime"?

Deuteronomy 24

1 - 4 Restriction of Remarriage

A specific instance against remarriage when 1) You married and divorced, 2) she went to another man, and 3) she comes back to you.

5 Exemption for the Newlywed

A man can't go into the army for 1 years after being married.

6 - 22 Personal Dignity and Welfare

Most of these involve treating your neighbor as you would want to be treated (especially the disadvantaged - orphans, etc.). Don't hold wages, don't put parents to death for things their children did, etc.

Question of the Day: What are the reasons for taking care of the disadvantaged?

Deuteronomy 23

1 - 8 Those Excluded From The Assembly

• Genetalia "problems" = ok to go to assembly.
• However, those born of "illicit union" can't go - not even to the 10th generation (I can only trace my family back 4 generations, so . . . ).
• No Ammonites or Moabites because they didn't meet the Isrealites with with food & water on their journey from Egypt.
• Don't hate Edomites (they're kin) or Egyptians (Isrealites resided there as aliens)

9 - 25 Sanitary, Ritual, and Humanitarian Precepts

• Guard against enemies.
• If one is unclean from "nocturnal emission" he can't come to camp until the next evening, and then only if he washes.
• Go the the bathroom outside of camp and cover it up.
• Don't return slaves who escape to you, but don't oppress them.
• No temple prostitutes.
• Don't charge interest to other Isrealites, but for foreigners, it's okay.
• If you vow something to God, fulfill it.
• If you go into your neighbor's vineyard, you may eat your fill of grapes, but don't put any in a container and take off.
• If you go into your neighbor's standing grain, you may eat what you pluck with your hand ("five finger discount"), but don't take a sickle to it.

Question of the Day: Someone think of a question.

Deuteronomy 22

1 - 3 Return Of Lost Property

If you see a neighbor's animals walking away, return them to him (or donkey or garment) - DON'T STEAL!

4 - 12 Assorted Duties and Restrictions

• If you see your neighbor's donkey or ox fallen (or car?), help lift it up.
• No Cross Dressing (That means you, Bugs Bunny!)
• If you find a fallen nest, don't take the mother, just the babies
• Don't build a parapet. It's dangerous.
• Don't mix seeds in your vineyard
• Don't plow with a donkey and ox yoked together (wouldn't the donkey just be dragged along?)
• No clothes made of wool and linen together
• Make tassels on the 4 corners of your cloak

13 - 21 The Accused Bride

Here, the question of virginity is important.

22 - 30 Adultry and Related Offenses

Death seems to be the punishment in every case. If he deceives her, she may live. (unless she's a virgin not engaged, then he must pay her father for her and marry her. Also, don't marry your father's wife.

Question of the Day: A lot of these don't seem relevant or like common sense (see 4 - 12). Still, what are some pros and cons of these laws being so specific?

Deuteronomy 21

1 - 9 Law Concerning Murder by Persons Unknown

CSI: Promised Land: If a body is found in open country, bring the elders and judges together and take a heifer from the nearest town. Take the heifer to the water and break its neck. All the elders will "wash their hands of the blood of the heifer" and declare, "Our hands did not shed this blood, nor were we witnesses to it. Absolve, O Lord, your people of Israel, whom you redeemed; do not let the guilt of innocent blood remain in the midst of your people of Israel."

10 - 14 Female Captives

Female captives, particularly the beautiful ones, should shave their heads, cut their nails, discard the captive's garb and remain a month mourning her father and mother. After a month, you may marry her or set her free. Don't sell her for money.

15 - 17 The Right of the Firstborn

The firstborn gets the double portion, whether you like the wife or not (!)

18 - 21 Rebellious Children

Purge the evil from your midst by having rebellious children stoned by the community. (The example they use is one who is a glutton and a drunkard)

22 - 23 Various laws

If someone is executed by hanging, remove his corpse and bury him that day.

Question of the Day: I found I was most interested in verses 1 - 9 because I didn't understand it. How does that law predict what Jesus did for Our sins?

Deuteronomy 20

1 - 20 Conduct of Warfare

• Don't be afraid if he opposing army is bigger than you - for the Lord is with you.
• Offer the enemy terms of peace first, if it accepts, then all the people shall serve as forced labor. If it does not accept, then you may beseige it. Then the spoils of war are yours.
• If you make war in an area for a long time, don't destroy the trees (that produce food).

Question of the Day: Someone ask a question about war! (Not, "War! What is it Good for!")

Deuteronomy 19

1 - 13 Cities of Refuge

Set apart three cities for refuge for people wanted for murder. (This probably protects the avenger from breaking the commandments as much as it protects the murderer).

14 Proscription of Encroachment

Don't move your neighbor's boundary marker (it's like stealing, anyway . . . )

15 - 21 Witnesses

A single witness is not enough to convict a person of a crime. Then there are laws about false witnesses. Here's where the line comes: Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot."

Question of the Day: What did Jesus say when he referred to line 19?

Deuteronomy 18

1 - 8 The Levitical Priesthood

Levitical priests shall have no allotment or inheritance in Israel. I guess they can eat what the sacrifices, but they can't gain any thing by being priests.

9 - 22 Israal's Prophets

Again, if an Isrealite goes into strange lands, he can't take on the abhorrnet practices (religion) of the new lands. Then the Lord will raise up a prophet. The Isrealites should be able to recognize the prophet. "You may say to yourself, "How can we recognize a word that the Lord has not spoken? If a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, it is a word that God has not spoken. The prophet has spoke it presumptuously; do not be frightened by it. (21-22)

Question of the Day: I was thinking about how many times this book repeats the commandment not to take up the religions of strange lands. In what ways (other than practicing another faith) can we be guilty of "taking up the abhorrent practices" of strange lands?

Deuteronomy 17

1 - 13 Administration of Justice (continued)

If you see that someone is breaking the covenant (worshiping other gods), you should stone these people to death. Purge evil in your midst.

If the decision is too difficult for you then, you should tell a levitical priest and then carry out his decision. (It's also bad to disobey the priest). All the people will hear and be afraid, and will not act presumptuously again (13).

14 - 20 Kingship

When you come into a new land, you will set upon a king who the Lord will choose.

Question of the Day: I know these laws are beginning to get a little "dry" for studying (at least for me). Here is the question: What is the value of studying these old laws?

(This is what I've been thinking about and you don't have to comment on it, but When Jesus established the new covenant, did he set aside the first covenant? and if so, "Is the old covenant obsolete?" - see Hebrews 8)

Deuteronomy 16

1 - 17 Pilgrimage Festivals

Several festivals are described to remind the Isrealites of events that happened to their people. The passover, festivals of the booths, weeks, and unleavened bread are prescribed.

18 - 21 Administration of Justice

The Isrealites should appoint judges and officials to make decisions for the people. You must not distort justice; you must not show partiality; and you must not accept bribes. . . (19) Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue, so that you may live and occupy the land that the Lord your God is giving you. Also, no trees as sacred poles or stone pillars (when used as idols, I guess).

Question of the Day: What should people look for when they choose the judges and officials? (see 18 - 20)

Deuteronomy 15

1 - 18 The Sabbatical Year of Remission

Every seventh year, the Isrealites should grant a remission of debts. If there is someone in the community in need, then do not be heard-hearted or tight-fisted toward your needy neighbor. Slaves should be freed after seven years.

19 - 23 The Firstborn of Livestock

The first male ox shall be eaten (with the household). Still, don't eat the blood.

Question of the Day: Give us a question, J.P.!

Deuteronomy 14

1 - 2 Pagan Practice Forbidden

Practices from other religions forbidden (i.e. lacerating oneself or shaving "forelocks" for the dead). Reason: For you are a people holy to the Lord your God; it is you the Lord has chosen out of all the peoples on earth to be his people on earth to be his people, his treasured possession" (2)

3 - 21 Clean and Unclean Foods

Clean and unclean foods are described in the order of animals, things that live in water, and birds. Finally, don't eat anything that dies of itself (not a good idea anyway), but you may give them to aliens. This section concludes, "You shall not boil a kid in its mother's milk." I wonder if this is a question that came up later and was added.

22 - 29 Regulations Concerning Tithes

This is the prescription for giving to the church. I'm a fan of Dave Ramsey, and his advice on tithing is given here. (However, he doesn't base it on any specific biblical passage). But a tithe is a tenth of income - and Dave recommends a tenth after taxes (take home pay).

Question: How does giving affect the giver?

Deuteronomy 13

1 - 18 Counteracting Sedition

1. Don't follow people who say dreams or visions told them to follow other gods (1 - 5).
2. Don't let people come to you secretly and try to get you to worship other gods (even your own brother or step-siblings) (6 - 11).
3. If another town goes astray, then that's an act of war (12 - 18).

Question of the Day: Some of the reactions to apostasy might seem a bit extreme today. Why were they so "harsh" back then?

Deuteronomy 12

1 - 12 Pagan Shrines to Be Destroyed

When entering a new land - destroy their places of worship completely. The Lord will choose a new place of worship. And you shall rejoice before the Lord your God, you together with your sons and daughters . . . (12)

13 - 28 A Prescribed Place of Worship

Only offer burnt offerings at places of worship. Then there's a prescription of the preparation (don't eat the blood . . . ). Be careful to obey all these words that I command you today, so that it may go well with you and with your children after you forever, because you will be doing what is good and right in the sight of the Lord your God (28).

29 - 32 Warning against Idolatry

There is a warning about following other culture's gods. You must diligently observe everything that I command you; do not add to it or take anything from it (32).

Question of the Day: This passage seems to talk about how to worship (and how not to). What is supposed to happen when we worship?

Deuteronomy 11

The Essence of the Covenant (Continued) 1 - 12:1

My notes say that this section concludes Moses' preliminary instructions. Primary emphasis is on the love of the Lord as "the crux of covenental obedience" (putting that into English, I guess he means if we love the Lord, we will keep His commandments). You shall love your God, therefore, his decrees, his ordinances, and his commandments always (1)

The Lord blesses those who keep his commanments: If you will only heed his every commandment that I am commanding you today - loving the Lord your God, and serving him with all your heart and all you soul - then he will give the rain for your land in its season . . . (13 - 14).

Question: It seems kind of the opposite of our culture to "love the law" - why is this true?

Deuteronomy 10

1 - 11 The Covenant Broken and Restored (continued)

Moses returns to the mountain where God helps him make a set of the Ten Commandments. The Lord tells Mosed to lead the people to the land God promised their ancestors.

12 - 22 The Essence of the Covenant

"So now, O Isreal, what does the Lord require of you? Only to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the Lord your God and his decrees that I am commanding you today, for your own well-being." (12 - 13) That sums things up pretty well.

Question of the Day: What does "circumcise the foreskin of your heart" (16) mean?

Deuteronomy 9

1 - 6 Unmerited Success

The Isrealites are told that anything they achieve is because of God's covenant to their fathers. "It is not because of your merits" - this line is repeated three times (in case they forget - they are, after all a "stiff-necked" people).

7 - 29 The Golden Calf

The Isrealites are reminded that they built a golden calf to worship, and that Moses had to plea for God not to "destroy them and blot out their name from under the heavens" (13). Again, it is the covenant that God made that saved these "stiff-necked" people. God keeps his promises!

Question of the Day: J.P. - ask a question - I can't think of one tonight.

Deuteronomy 8

1 - 5 God's Care

The Isrealites are reminded that God led them through the desert and tested them with hunger (in order to show that man doesn't live by bread alone). The Lord disciplines them "even as a man disciplines his son).

6 - 20 Danger of Prosperity

The Promised Land is described, but also the danger that one might say, "It is my own power and the strength of my own hand that has obtained me this wealth." (17) We must remember that it is the Lord who gives us the power to acquire wealth, "by fulfilling, as he has not done, the covenant." (18) But if the Isrealites forget and begin to worship other gods, they are warned that they will "perish utterly."

Question of the Day: In verse 5, God is described as disciplining as a man disciplines as son. Expand on this metaphor. How (when, why, etc.) do parents discipline their children?

Deuteronomy 7

1 - 11 A Chosen People

The author says Isreal will last longer than the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. How many of those have you seen in the news lately. God chose Isreal "because the LORD loved you and because of his fidelity to the oath he had sworn to your fathers, that he brought you out with his strong hand from the place of slavery, and ransomed you from the hand of Pharaoh, king of Egypt." (8) Therefore, the Isrealites must keep the commandments.

12 - 26 Blessings for Obedience

If one follows the Lord, the Lord will bless him protecting him. This passage ends with a warning: "You shall not bring any abominable thing into your house, lest you be doomed with it; loathe and abhor it utterly as a thing that is doomed" (26)

Question of the Day: Why does the Lord not wish for the Isrealites to intermarry? Why not bring "abominable" things into the house?

Deuteronomy 6

1 - 3 Moses as Mediator (Continued)

The Lord wishes for the Isrealites to obey the law "so that you and you son and your grandson may fear the Lord, your God, and keep, throughout the days of your lives, all his statutes and commandments which I enjoin on you, and thus have a long life." (2)

4 - 9 The Great Commandment

"Therefore, you shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength. (5) The Isrealites are even told to keep these words so seriously that they put them on their wrists and on their foreheads as a pendant. My notes say this is just figurative.

10 - 19 Fidality in Prosperity

The Lord promises land (10), goods, and food (11). Then there is another reminder not to follow other gods.

20 - 25 Instruction to Children

Here are instructions of exactly what to say to children when they ask what the statutes and ordinances mean. Verses 21 - 25 pretty much sum up everything that has been summarized in the first 5 books of Deuteronomy.

Question of the Day: Read verse 13. What is meant by "serve"?

Deuteronomy 5

1- 5 The Covenant at Horeb

God makes a covenant with the Isrealites - not with their fathers - but with the Isrealites. My notes say: "God does not punish us for another's sins, but because of the solidarity of human society, the good or evil deeds of one generation smay make their effects felt even in later generations."

6 - 21 The Decalogue

The Ten Commandments

22 - 33 Moses as Mediator

The Isrealites are worried because of the fire and cloud. When God hears this, he tells Moses to be sure the Isrealites keep His commandments. He wants Moses to stay while the rest go to their tents so God can give the statutes and decrees. Moses says, "Be careful, therefore, to do as the Lord your God, has commanded you, not turning aside to the right or left , but following exactly the way prescribed for you by the Lord your God, that you may live and prosper, and may have long life in the land which you are to occupy." (32 - 33)

Question of the Day: My dictionary says a covenant is "a solemn binding agreement" Q: What action does each party (God and humans) agree to do?"

Deuteronomy 4

1 - 8 Advantages of Fidelity

Moses stresses the importance of keeping the teachings the Lord has given the Isrealites "for thus you will give evidence of your wisdom and intelligence to the nations . . . (6)

9 - 14 Revelation at Horeb

Moses tells how important the Ten Commandments are that the Lord gave Israel.

15 - 24 Danger of Idolatry

The Lord is "a consuming fire, a jealous God" (24), and therefore no idol in any form should be worshipped. This has already gotten Moses in trouble and he's going to die before they get to the promised land without crossing the Jordan.

25 - 31 God's Fidelity

Awesome verse: "Yet there too you shall seek the Lord, your God; and you shall indeed find him when you search after him with your whole heart and your whole soul (29).

32 - 40 Proofs of God's Love

Moses asks if anything greater than God had happened before? Was it ever heard of? (32) The Lord led the Isrealites out of Egypt because of LOVE (love of your fathers) (37). What does God want from the Isrealites? "You must keep his statutes and commandments which I enjoin on you today, that you and your children after you may prosper, and that you may have long life on the land which the Lord, you God, is giving you forever" (40).

41 - 43 Cities of Refuge

Moses sets apart 3 cities east of Jordan (a refuge for someone who accidentally kills his neighbor).

PART II: GOD AND HIS COVENANT

44 - 49 Introduction

The author sets up an introduction to the law which Moses set before the Israelites.

QUESTION OF THE DAY: What does God really want for the Isrealites?

Deuteronomy 3

1 - 11 Defeat of Og

The Isrealites capture Og's cities (60 in all).

12 - 22 Allotment of the Conquered Lands

Moses divides the land and charges the men of Reuben and Gad that the land is theirs, but they must keep troops to help the Isrealites fight. Moses tells Joshua: "You eyes have seen all that the Lord, your God, has done to both these kings; so, too, will the Lord do to all the kingdoms which you will encounter over there. Fear them not, for the Lord, your God, will fight for you" (21-22).

23 - 29 Refusal of Moses

Moses wants to cross Jordan into Lebanan, but the Lord is angry at him on account of the Isrealites. He tells Moses to climb Pisgah and to encourage Joshua because he will lead the people there.

Today's Question: God tells Moses no, and we don't really get a sense of Moses' reaction, but I'm sure he was disappointed. How have you reacted in the past when God has clearly said "No" to you?

Deuteronomy 2

1 - 7 Northward along Edom

When the Isrealites reach the Red Sea road, the Lord tells Moses, "You have wandered around these highlands for a long time; turn and go north."

8 - 23 Along Moab and Ammon

8 - 23 We continue with the God takes them through Moab and Ammon

24 - 37 Defeat of Sihon

The Lord tells the Isrealites to cross the Wadi Arnon, and to "put a fear and dread of you into every nation under the heavens." Moses sends messengers to Sihon, king of Heshbon, who refuses to let the Isrealites through. The Isrealites, subsequently defeat them in battle.


Question for the day: Was there ever a time when you heard the Lord say: "You have wandered long enough. It's time to . . . "

I know for me, I resisted going to the band's Bible study for a long time, and it wasn't until the spring of 2005 that I got the courage to go. J.P. and I have been studying the Bible off and on (mostly on) ever since.

Deuteronomy 1

Part One: Historical Review and Exhortation (Dt. 1, 1-4, 43)

1 - 5 Introduction

In the land of Moab, in the 40th year, on the first day of the eleventh month, Moses gave the Isrealites all God's commands.

6 - 8 Departure from Horeb

Moses tells the story of how the Lord told the Isrealites to leave Horeb for Lebanan (and as far as the Great River [Euphrates]) - this is the land the Lord promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and their descendants.

9 - 18 Appointment of Elders

Since then, the Isrealites have multiplied, and since Moses alone couldn't listen to their complaints he appointed elders to make judgement on problems.

19 - 25 The Twelve Scouts

The Isrealites left Horeb, and when they reached the land of the Amorites (which the Lord gave them), Moses sent 12 scouts ahead to check things out. They brought fruit back and declared it was good.

26 - 40 Threats of Revolt

Except for Caleb, the crowd lost faith and refused to go up. The Lord was angry and wouldn't even let Moses see the new land. The Lord, however, allows Joshua to see it and promises the land to the Isrealite children - but the rest have to "proceed into the desert on the Red Sea road."

41 - 46 Unsuccessful Invasion

The Isrealites reply that they have sinned and that they will fight. But the Lord tells Moses to warn them that the Amorites will beat them if they try it. The Isrealites didn't listen and the Amorites "came out . . . like bees" and chased them off.

Question of the Day:

I still think it would be a good idea to have a "discussion question" to get us talking (Hey, I'm an English teacher).

Anyway - Here it is: What can we learn about our present Christian life by learning about the trials of this group of Isrealites?

Psalm 68

The Coming of God in Triumph

My notes state this is "a hymn of praise for God's awesome appearance to the people in power and victory." Also, the original Hebrew text was badly preserved and the ceremondy that it describes is uncertain.

1 - 3 The psalmist is confident God will destroy all Israel's enemies.

4 - 6 The psalmist calls upon God (the rider of clouds - cool! My notes say this is "the imagery of Canaanite myth in which the storm-god mounted storm clouds and rode into battle." It's neat that they were able to apply old pagan images to the one true God).

7 - 10 The psalmist describes Isreal's rescue from Egypt and other miracles.

21 - 23. God will overthrow Isreal's enemies (i.e. "crush their skulls")

32 - 35 Great words of praise for God. "Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth; sing praises to the Lord [. . . ] Awesome is God in his sanctuary, the God of Israel; he gives power and strength to his people. Blessed be God!

Psalm 67

The Nations Called to Praise God

My notes state that this is "a prayer of benediction" - I believe I've heard this put to music - this would be a good one to use at the Bible study Sunday!

1 - 2 May God bless us so that his way will be known on earth!

3 - 4 Let all nations praise God!

5 - 6 Let all people praise God, who has blessed us, and may he continue to bless us.

Psalm 66

Praise for God's Goods to Israel

A good psalm of praise

1 - 12 The psalmist begins by describing how the community praises God for powerful acts for Israel, both in the past (the exodus from Egypt and the entry into the land) and in the present (deliverance from a recent but unspecified calamity) (my notes). They went through many trials, but God's plan was being unfolded all along. You let captors set foot on our neck; we went through fire and water; then you led us out to freedom.

13 - 15 The psalmist prays as an individual who has offered sacrifice.

16 - 19 The psalmist invites all who fear God to hear what God has done for him.

20 The psalmist concludes by praising God. Blessed be God, who did not refuse me the kindness I sought in prayer.

Psalm 65

A prayer of thanksgiving

2 - 4 The psalmist is aware of his community's unworthiness and give thanks for a divine bounty.

5 - 8. The psalmist knows the bounty comes from God.

9 - 12. My notes: "At God's touch the earth comes alive withe vegetation and flocks. The pastures are clothed with flocks, the valleys blanketed with grain; they cheer and sing for joy.

Psalm 64

Prayer for Protection from Enemies

1 - 6 The Psalmist is upset because of how evil his enemies are.

7 - 9 God will overthrow the psalmist's enemies (my notes say that these verses may also be read in the past tense as if the Psalmist has already won.

10 A concluding call to praise: Let the righteious rejoice in the Lord and take refuge in him. Let all the upright in heart glory.

Psalm 63

Comfort and Assurance in God's Presence (My notes say this is a psalm of David when he was in the Wilderness of Judah)

1 - 4 When the Psalmist is separated from God (Good imagery: "my soul thirsts for you, my flesh faints for you"), he longs for the divine life given to him in the temple. "So I will bless you as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on your name"

5 - 8 The psalmist wants a close relationship with God. "My mouth praises you with joyful lips as I think about you on my bed" (My notes say this might be an allusion to waiting throughout the night in the sanctuary)

9 - 11 He wishes for his enemies to be destroyed and those who believe to continue in their faith. ". . . all who swear by him shall exult, for the mouths of liars will be stopped."

Psalm 62

Song of God's Protection

1 - 4 The Psalmist shows his trust in God For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation, for fortress; I shall never be shaken.

5 - 7 The psalmist repeats about his trust in God and adds, "On God rests my deliverance and my honor; my mighty rock, my refuge is in God."

8 - 10 Verse 8 is good too: "Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us." 9 & 10 talk about the folly of dwelling on financial matters. We should trust in God.

11 - 12 All power lies in God and He repays all "according to their work."

A good psalm about trusting God.

Psalm 61

Assurance of God's Protection

My notes say this is a prayer by an individual for help.

1 - 3 The psalmist asks for help. Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer; From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint.

4 - 5 The psalmist asks for protection. Le me abide in your tent forever, find refuge under the shelter of your wings.

6 - 8 The psalmist promises to praise God. So I will always sing praises to your name, as I pay my vows day after day.

Lots of good imagery in this one. Sometimes asking for help is the hard part.

Psalm 60

Prayer for National Victory after Defeat

This prayer asks for God's help.

1 - 4 The psalmist feels the community is rejected by God - there have been natural disasters and the people have suffered.

5 - 8 The psalmist remembers that God has promised his protection.

11 - 12 The psalmist prays for help. "O grant us help against our foe, for human help is worthless. With God we shall do valiantly; it is he who will tread down our foes." The psalm ends by acknowledging that God is all-powerful.

Psalm 59

Prayer for Deliverence from Enemies

1 - 4 The Psalmist asks for deliverence from bloodthirsty enemies (and denies fault)

5 He tells the Lord to wake up and punish those who act against Israel.

6 - 7; 14 - 15 Each evening the enemies come back and terrorize the psalmist.

8 - 13 But God laughs at them. "My God in his steadfast love will meet me; my God will let me look in triumph on my enemies." He asks God not to kill his enemies so his people won't forget.

16 - 17 The psalmist sings praises to God. "O my strength, I will sing praises to you, for you, O God, ar my fortress, the God who shows me steadfast love."

This psalm shows the complex relationship between God and man. I probably wouldn't admonish God to wake up, but sometimes I get very frustrated. Still, it ends with praise for God and it shows the psalmists love for him even in a difficult situation.

Psalm 58

Prayer for Vengeance

1 - 2 Here the psalmist addresses the gods of other nations, asking whether or not they actually support the wicked (It's interesting that the psalmist would do so as if they actually exist).

3 - 5 The wicked are born bad. They are like snakes and they don't hear those who try to control them.

6 - 9 The psalmist asks God to "break the teeth in their mouths" (so they won't have fangs) and to have other nasty things happen.

10 - 11 When this is done, the righteous will rejoice, saying, "Surely there is a reward for the righteous; surely there is a God who judges the earth."

This psalm makes me a bit uncomfortable - I don't feel right praying for bad things to happen to people. While I didn't like Saddam Hussein, I didn't "rejoice" at his hanging. What I get out of this is that there is comfort in knowing there are consequences in life. That just as there are bad consequences for bad actions there are good consequences to good actions. This is why the righteous rejoice. They rejoice because they know there is a just reward for their good lives.

Psalm 57

God's Rule over the Nations

1 - 4 This one would be good to set to music: "Clap you hands, all you peoples; shout to God with loud songs of joy!" He also chose the heritage of Jacob . . .

5 - 7 More singing to God - to God like a shout, to the Lord like a trumpet.

8 - 9 "God is king over the nations; God sits on his holy throne" The shields of earth belong to God.

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).