2 Samuel 17:1-29
Big Idea
The counsel of Ahithophel is contrasted with the counsel of Hushai, highlighting the importance of wise decision-making in times of crisis.
Commentary
The passage emphasizes the significance of counsel and the consequences of following bad counsel.
Ahithophel's counsel is portrayed as reckless and impulsive, while Hushai's counsel is presented as wise and cautious.
The passage highlights the importance of considering the consequences of one's actions and the impact on others.
The contrast between Ahithophel's and Hushai's counsel serves as a commentary on the nature of good and bad leadership.
The passage also explores the theme of God's sovereignty and providence, as the LORD ordains to defeat Ahithophel's counsel.
The character of Hushai is portrayed as a wise and loyal advisor, who is willing to risk his own life to save the king.
The passage highlights the importance of humility and the recognition of one's limitations, as Hushai acknowledges that his counsel is not as good as Ahithophel's.
The contrast between Ahithophel's and Hushai's counsel also serves as a commentary on the nature of human pride and the dangers of following one's own desires.
The passage emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from others, rather than relying solely on one's own judgment.
The character of David is portrayed as a wise and humble leader, who is willing to listen to the counsel of others and seek guidance from God.
Claims
- Ahithophel's counsel is not good, according to Hushai.
- David is expert in war and will not stay with his people.
- Hushai's counsel is to gather all Israel and go to battle in person.
- The LORD had ordained to defeat Ahithophel's counsel.
- Ahithophel hangs himself when he sees his counsel is not followed.
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
Ahithophel's counsel is portrayed as a clever and strategic plan to defeat David, but in reality, it is a reckless and impulsive decision.
Correction
Misunderstanding
> Ahithophel's counsel is actually a foolish and arrogant plan that ignores the consequences of his actions.
Correction
Misunderstanding
Hushai's counsel is portrayed as a wise and cautious decision, but in reality, it is a clever and manipulative move to save David.
Correction
Misunderstanding
> Hushai's counsel is actually a wise and prudent decision that takes into account the consequences of his actions and the impact on others.
Correction
Application Questions
- How can we apply the principles of wise counsel and decision-making in our own lives?
- What are the consequences of following bad counsel, and how can we avoid making similar mistakes?
- How can we seek wisdom and guidance from others, rather than relying solely on our own judgment?
- What are the dangers of human pride and the importance of humility in leadership?
- How can we apply the principles of God's sovereignty and providence in our own lives, and recognize the importance of seeking guidance from God?
John 19:23-42
Big Idea
Jesus' crucifixion and burial are described in detail, highlighting the fulfillment of Scripture and the care taken by his mother and the disciple he loved.
Commentary
The soldiers divide Jesus' garments among themselves, but the seamless tunic is cast lots for, fulfilling Scripture.
Jesus' mother and the disciple he loves are standing by the cross, and Jesus gives them a command to care for each other.
Jesus says "I thirst" and is given sour wine, then says "It is finished" and gives up his spirit.
The Jews ask Pilate to break the legs of the crucified men and take them away, but Jesus' legs are not broken.
A soldier pierces Jesus' side with a spear, and blood and water come out.
Joseph of Arimathea asks Pilate for permission to take Jesus' body, and Nicodemus brings spices to anoint it.
Jesus' body is buried in a new tomb, following Jewish custom.
The events described are seen as fulfilling Scripture, with Jesus' death and burial being a fulfillment of prophecy.
The care taken by Jesus' mother and the disciple he loves is highlighted, as is the role of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus in Jesus' burial.
The significance of the seamless tunic and the piercing of Jesus' side are noted, as is the importance of the events described in fulfilling Scripture.
Claims
- Jesus' tunic was seamless, as described in Scripture.
- Jesus' body was not broken, as described in Scripture.
- The disciple whom Jesus loved takes care of Jesus' mother.
- The Jews are concerned about the bodies remaining on the cross on the Sabbath.
- The soldiers follow the Jews' request to break the legs of the other men.
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
<Jesus' tunic was torn, not seamless>
Correction
Jesus' tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom.
Misunderstanding
<The soldiers broke Jesus' legs>
Correction
The soldiers did not break Jesus' legs, as he was already dead.
Application Questions
- What does Jesus' seamless tunic represent in the narrative?
- How does Jesus' care for his mother and the disciple he loves reflect his character?
- What significance does the piercing of Jesus' side have in the narrative?
- How does the burial of Jesus in a new tomb reflect Jewish custom?
- What does the fulfillment of Scripture in Jesus' death and burial mean for the reader?
Psalm 119:129-152
Big Idea
The psalmist expresses admiration for the LORD's testimonies and their desire to keep them.
Commentary
The psalmist's soul keeps the LORD's testimonies.
The unfolding of the LORD's words gives light and understanding.
The psalmist longs for the LORD's commandments.
The psalmist's foes forget the LORD's words.
The psalmist's servant loves the LORD's promise.
The psalmist's eyes shed streams of tears for the LORD's law.
The psalmist's zeal consumes them for the LORD's words.
The psalmist's righteousness is righteous forever.
The psalmist's law is true.
The psalmist's commandments are their delight.
The psalmist's testimonies are righteous forever.
The psalmist hopes in the LORD's words.
Claims
- The LORD's testimonies are wonderful and worthy of keeping.
- The unfolding of the LORD's words gives light and understanding.
- The psalmist's zeal for the LORD's words is genuine and consuming.
- The LORD's commandments are the psalmist's delight.
- The LORD's testimonies are righteous forever.
- The psalmist's righteousness is righteous forever.
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
<The psalmist is only concerned with keeping the law.
Correction
The psalmist is concerned with keeping the law, but also with the LORD's nearness and the truth of His commandments.
Misunderstanding
<The psalmist's zeal is only for the law.
Correction
The psalmist's zeal is for the LORD's words, not just the law.
Application Questions
- How can you cultivate a deeper appreciation for the LORD's testimonies?
- How can you prioritize keeping the LORD's commandments in your life?
- What are some ways you can express your zeal for the LORD's words?
- How can you respond to those who forget the LORD's words?
- What does it mean to have the LORD's nearness in your life?
- How can you prioritize the LORD's commandments in your daily life?
Proverbs 16:12-13
Big Idea
The passage emphasizes the importance of righteousness for kings, highlighting the consequences of evil actions and the benefits of speaking what is right.
Commentary
The passage is addressed to kings, emphasizing the importance of their actions and words.
The use of "abomination" to describe doing evil suggests that kings are expected to uphold high moral standards.
The throne is established by righteousness, implying that a king's authority is tied to their moral character.
Righteous lips are pleasing to kings, suggesting that a king values honesty and integrity.
Speaking what is right earns the king's love, indicating that a king is drawn to those who uphold moral standards.
The passage assumes that kings have a significant impact on their subjects, and that their actions and words have consequences.
The use of "delight" and "love" to describe a king's relationship with righteous individuals suggests a deep emotional connection.
The passage implies that a king's relationship with their subjects is built on mutual respect and trust.
The emphasis on righteousness suggests that the passage is concerned with the moral character of kings, rather than their power or authority.
The passage assumes that kings have a responsibility to uphold justice and righteousness.
The use of "established" to describe the throne's foundation suggests a sense of permanence and stability.
Claims
- It is an abomination to kings to do evil.
- The throne is established by righteousness.
- Righteous lips are the delight of a king.
- He loves him who speaks what is right.
Popular Mistakes
Misunderstanding
A king's throne is a physical object
Correction
The throne refers to the king's authority and position of power.
Misunderstanding
A king's love is a romantic or emotional feeling
Correction
The king's love is a deep affection and respect for those who speak what is right.
Application Questions
- How can a king demonstrate righteousness in their actions and words?
- What are the consequences of a king doing evil, and how can they be avoided?
- How can a king cultivate a relationship with their subjects based on mutual respect and trust?
- What are the benefits of speaking what is right, and how can they be applied in a king's life?
- How can a king balance their desire for power and authority with their responsibility to uphold justice and righteousness?
- What are some ways that a king can demonstrate their love and affection for those who speak what is right?