Scholars Notes, Day 48

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Leviticus 4:1-5:19

Thesis

The passage Leviticus 4:1-5:19 outlines the procedures for making atonement for unintentional sins in various contexts.

Commentary

The passage emphasizes the importance of making atonement for unintentional sins through the use of sin offerings (Leviticus 4:1-2).

Anointed priests who sin unintentionally must offer a bull without blemish as a sin offering (Leviticus 4:3-21).

The congregation, leaders, and common people are also instructed to make atonement for their unintentional sins through the use of sin offerings (Leviticus 4:22-35).

Those who cannot afford a lamb or turtledoves/pigeons may offer fine flour as a sin offering (Leviticus 5:1-13).

The passage also addresses breaches of faith and unintentional sins in holy things, requiring a guilt offering and restitution (Leviticus 5:14-19).

Context

  • The passage begins with God's instructions to Moses on sin offerings (Leviticus 4:1-2).
  • The instructions are repeated and expanded upon for different groups, including anointed priests (Leviticus 4:3-21), the congregation (Leviticus 4:22-26), leaders (Leviticus 4:27-31), common people (Leviticus 4:32-35), and those who cannot afford a lamb or turtledoves/pigeons (Leviticus 5:1-13).
  • The passage concludes with instructions for making atonement for breaches of faith and unintentional sins in holy things (Leviticus 5:14-19).

Structure

Introduction to sin offerings (Leviticus 4:1-2)

Instructions for anointed priests who sin unintentionally (Leviticus 4:3-21)

Instructions for the congregation who sins unintentionally (Leviticus 4:22-26)

Instructions for leaders who sin unintentionally (Leviticus 4:27-31)

Instructions for common people who sin unintentionally (Leviticus 4:32-35)

Instructions for those who cannot afford a lamb or turtledoves/pigeons (Leviticus 5:1-13)

Conclusion on making atonement for breaches of faith and unintentional sins in holy things (Leviticus 5:14-19)

Key Terms

  • Sin offering
  • Guilt offering
  • Atonement
  • Forgiveness
  • Unintentional sin
  • Blemish-free animals
  • Holy things
  • Sanctuary shekel

Interpretive Options

Option 1: The passage emphasizes the importance of making atonement for unintentional sins through the use of sin offerings.

Option 2: The passage highlights the different types of animals that can be used as sin offerings, depending on social status and affordability.

Reasoned preference: The first option is more plausible, as it aligns with the overall theme of the passage.

Theological Synthesis

The passage demonstrates God's concern for making atonement for unintentional sins through the use of sin offerings (Leviticus 4:1-2).

The instructions for different groups emphasize the importance of making atonement for their unintentional sins (Leviticus 4:22-35).

The passage also highlights the need for restitution and a guilt offering in cases of breaches of faith and unintentional sins in holy things (Leviticus 5:14-19).

Cross References

  • Exodus 29:10-14 (instructions for anointed priests)
  • Numbers 15:22-31 (instructions for making atonement for unintentional sins)
  • Leviticus 1:3-17 (instructions for burnt offerings)
  • Leviticus 6:8-13 (instructions for peace offerings)
  • Leviticus 7:1-10 (instructions for peace offerings)
  • Numbers 5:5-10 (instructions for making atonement for unintentional sins)


Mark 2:13-3:6

Thesis

Jesus' mission is to call sinners, not the righteous, as he explains through various metaphors and examples.

Commentary

The passage highlights Jesus' mission to call sinners, not the righteous (Mark 2:17).

Jesus uses metaphors to illustrate his mission, such as new wine in old wineskins (Mark 2:22) and wedding guests (Mark 2:19).

The Sabbath becomes a focal point for controversy, with Jesus defending his actions by citing David's example of eating bread from the Presence (Mark 2:27).

Jesus' healing of a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath prompts the Pharisees to plot against him (Mark 3:1-6).

Context

  • The passage takes place in Galilee, near the sea, where Jesus teaches a large crowd (Mark 2:13).
  • Jesus calls Levi son of Alphaeus to follow him, marking the beginning of his ministry among tax collectors and sinners (Mark 2:14).
  • This event sparks controversy among the scribes of the Pharisees, who question Jesus' association with "sinners" (Mark 2:16-17).
  • The passage continues with Jesus defending his actions by explaining that he came for sinners, not the righteous (Mark 2:18-22).
  • Jesus uses metaphors about new wine in old wineskins and wedding guests to illustrate his mission (Mark 2:21-22).

Structure

Introduction: Jesus teaches the crowd near the sea (Mark 2:13).

Inciting Incident: Jesus calls Levi son of Alphaeus to follow him (Mark 2:14).

Rising Action: The scribes of the Pharisees question Jesus' association with "sinners" (Mark 2:16-17).

Climax: Jesus defends his actions by explaining that he came for sinners, not the righteous (Mark 2:18-22).

Falling Action: Jesus uses metaphors to illustrate his mission and defends his actions on the Sabbath (Mark 2:23-26).

Resolution: The Pharisees plot against Jesus after he heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath (Mark 3:1-6).

Key Terms

  • Physician: one who heals or restores spiritual health.
  • Sick: those in need of spiritual healing or restoration.
  • Righteous: those who are considered morally upright and obedient to God's law.
  • Sinners: those who have transgressed against God's law and are in need of forgiveness and restoration.
  • Wedding guests: those who participate in the joyous celebration of Jesus' presence and mission.
  • New wine: a symbol of Jesus' new covenant and message.
  • Old wineskins: a representation of the old covenant and traditional ways of thinking.

Interpretive Options

Plausible interpretation 1: Jesus is challenging traditional Jewish understandings of the Sabbath and the role of the Pharisees.

Plausible interpretation 2: Jesus is emphasizing his mission to call sinners, not the righteous, and using metaphors to illustrate this point.

Reasoned preference: The second interpretation seems more plausible, as it aligns with Jesus' stated mission in Mark 1:17.

Theological Synthesis

Jesus' mission to call sinners, not the righteous, is a central theme of this passage (Mark 2:17).

The Sabbath becomes a symbol of God's rest and provision for humanity, rather than a means of restricting human activity (Mark 2:27).

Jesus' use of metaphors, such as new wine in old wineskins, highlights the need for a new way of thinking and understanding God's message.

Cross References

  • Exodus 20:8-11: The Sabbath is established as a day of rest for Israel.
  • Deuteronomy 5:12-15: The Sabbath is commanded to be observed by Israel.
  • Isaiah 58:13-14: The Sabbath is described as a time for rest and joy, rather than restriction.
  • Matthew 9:10-17: Jesus' association with tax collectors and sinners is also criticized in this passage.
  • Luke 5:27-32: Jesus calls Levi son of Alphaeus to follow him, similar to Mark 2:14.


Psalm 36:1-12

Thesis

The psalmist David exhorts God to continue His steadfast love and righteousness towards those who know Him.

Commentary

The wicked person's heart is described as having no fear of God before their eyes (v. 1), indicating a deliberate choice to sin.

Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in their heart, showing that it is not just external actions but also internal motivations that are at play (v. 2).

The wicked person flatters themselves, thinking their iniquity cannot be found out and hated (v. 3), demonstrating a lack of accountability.

God's steadfast love extends to the heavens and His faithfulness to the clouds (v. 5), highlighting His boundless commitment.

His righteousness is like the mountains of God, and His judgments are like the great deep (v. 6), emphasizing their magnitude and power.

Context

  • This psalm is a prayer from David, the servant of the LORD (v. 1).
  • It addresses both the wicked and the upright of heart (vv. 1-2).
  • The psalmist describes God's character through His steadfast love and righteousness (vv. 5-7).
  • He contrasts good and evil, highlighting the wicked person's heart as having no fear of God (vv. 1-3).

Structure

Introduction: Addressing both the wicked and the upright of heart (v. 1)

Description of God's character: His steadfast love and righteousness (vv. 5-7)

Contrast between good and evil: The wicked person's heart has no fear of God (vv. 1-3)

Prayer for continued steadfast love and righteousness (v. 10)

Conclusion: The fate of the wicked and the upright of heart (vv. 11-12)

Key Terms

  • Transgression: A deliberate choice to sin, indicating a deep-seated issue in the wicked person's heart.
  • Iniquity: The wicked person's actions are not just wrong but also unjust and unrighteous.
  • Steadfast love: God's unwavering commitment to His people, extending to the heavens (v. 5).
  • Faithfulness: God's loyalty and reliability towards those who know Him.
  • Righteousness: God's justice and holiness, likened to the mountains of God (v. 6).
  • Judgments: God's decisions and verdicts, like the great deep (v. 6).

Interpretive Options

Plausible interpretation: The psalmist is expressing a desire for God's continued love and justice in the face of evil and wickedness.

Alternative interpretation: David is highlighting the contrast between God's character and the wicked person's heart, emphasizing the need for repentance and faith.

Reasoned preference: The former interpretation seems more plausible as it aligns with the psalmist's prayer for continued steadfast love and righteousness.

Theological Synthesis

This psalm highlights the importance of God's character in relation to His people, emphasizing His steadfast love and righteousness.

It contrasts good and evil, demonstrating that God is not indifferent to human actions but actively intervenes on behalf of those who know Him.

The psalmist's prayer for continued love and justice underscores the need for ongoing dependence on God.

Cross References

  • Psalm 103:8 - "The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.
  • Exodus 34:6-7 - "The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, 'The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.'
  • Psalm 89:14 - "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.
  • Isaiah 30:18 - "Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him!
  • Psalm 119:77 - "Let your steadfast love become my comfort, according to your promise.


Proverbs 10:1-2

Thesis

The passage emphasizes the importance of wisdom and its effects on one's relationships and ultimate well-being.

Commentary

The phrase "proverbs of Solomon" (v. 1) emphasizes the human origin of these wisdom sayings, which are attributed to King Solomon.

A wise son brings joy to his father because he reflects God's character and values (v. 1a).

In contrast, a foolish son causes sorrow for his mother because he rejects God's ways (v. 1b).

The phrase "treasures gained by wickedness do not profit" suggests that sinful behavior may initially yield benefits but ultimately leads to spiritual bankruptcy.

Righteous living can rescue someone from the metaphorical death of spiritual separation from God.

Context

  • The book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom sayings attributed to King Solomon.
  • This passage introduces the proverbs, setting the tone for the rest of the book.
  • The context suggests that the audience is parents, specifically fathers and mothers, who are being exhorted to teach their children the value of wisdom.

Structure

The passage begins with a general introduction to the proverbs (v. 1).

It then presents two contrasting scenarios: a wise son bringing joy to his father (v. 1a) versus a foolish son causing sorrow for his mother (v. 1b).

The second stanza contrasts the fleeting nature of wickedness's gains with the lasting benefits of righteousness (vv. 2a-b).

Key Terms

  • Wisdom: the ability to discern and apply moral principles.
  • Righteousness: living in accordance with God's standards, resulting in a right relationship with Him.
  • Death: often used metaphorically to represent spiritual or eternal death.

Interpretive Options

One possible interpretation is that a wise son's obedience and faithfulness bring joy to his father, while a foolish son's rebellion causes sorrow for his mother. This view emphasizes the importance of family relationships in teaching wisdom.

Another option is that the passage highlights the consequences of one's choices: wickedness leads to spiritual death, while righteousness brings life. This perspective focuses on the individual's responsibility to choose between God's ways and sinful behavior.

Theological Synthesis

The passage reflects the biblical theme of the importance of wisdom in living a godly life (e.g., Psalm 119:66).

The contrast between wickedness and righteousness underscores the consequences of one's choices, echoing other passages that emphasize the importance of obedience (e.g., Deuteronomy 30:15-20).

The emphasis on family relationships as a means of teaching wisdom resonates with other biblical passages that highlight the role of parents in shaping their children's values and character (e.g., Ephesians 6:1-4).

Cross References

  • Psalm 119:66 - "Teach me your statutes!
  • Deuteronomy 30:15-20 - The choice between life and death, blessings and curses.
  • Ephesians 6:1-4 - Children obeying their parents as a means of honoring God.
  • Proverbs 22:6 - Training up children in the way they should go.
  • Matthew 7:24-27 - Building one's life on rock or sand.

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