Old Testament (Joshua-2 Kings)

Lesson 58: Joshua—Call And Commission
Joshua 1:1-18
Golden Text: Joshua, 1:9

We are now introduced to the new leader of Israel whose history we shall follow for the next eight lessons. I. His Preparation. He had a long period of preparation. This is true of all God’s servants. He must be faithful in the little things of life before he can be entrusted with the greater responsibilities. 1 Timothy 3:6, 10.

1. A courageous soldier; Exodus 17:13. Cp. 2 Timothy 2:3; 1 Timothy 6:11, 12.

2. A devoted servant; Exodus 24:3. He who would lead must first serve. Cp. 2 Kings 3:11; 1 Timothy 3:10; John 13:12-17; Proverbs 15:33; Mark 10:45.

3. A true worshipper; Exodus 33:11. Cp. John 4: 23, 24.

4. A faithful witness; Numbers 14:6-9. He stood out against the popular opinion and witnessed for God. Cp 2 Timothy 1:8-12; 4:1-5; Romans 1:14-16; Proverbs 14:25.

5. Taught in the Word; Exodus 17:14. Cp. 2 Timothy 2:15; Titus 1-9

6. Spirit filled; Numbers 27:18. Cp. Ephesians 1:13; 5:18; Gal 5:22-23.

7. Divinely appointed; Numbers 27:18-23. Cp. John 15:16, etc. Note his name—Joshua means “Jehovah, Saviour;” translated “Jesus.” Hebrews 4:8, and a wonderful type of Christ.

II. His Commission; Joshua 1:1-18.

1. The charge from God; Vs. 1-2.

2. The promise; Vs. 3-4. Note that personal appropriation was essential. They must possess their possessions. So with the Christian—he has “all things;” 1 Corinthians 3:21-23; and “all blessings,” Ephesians 1:3; but only enjoys that which he appropriates himself. See Genesis 14: 17, 18 “Arise and walk through the land.”

3. The encouragement; Vs. 5-6. (1) The promise of God’s presence; V. 5. Cp. Exodus 33:14, 15; Hebrews 13:5; Matthew 28:20; 2 Timothy 4:16-18. (2) Exhortation to strength and courage; V. 6. Cp. 2 Timothy 1:7, 8; 2:1; 1 Corinthians 16:13, etc.

4. The command; Vs. 7-8, 9. The secret of true success and prosperity is the place that God’s word has in the heart and life of the believer. There can be no success without it. (1) To memorize it; V. 8—“Mouth.” (2) To be meditated on; V. 8. (3) To be acted on; V. 8. Obedience is the best commentary. (4) The result: Prosperity and wisdom (marg.). This is what all are seeking for, but here is the only true method. Cp. Proverbs 1:7, 5; 2:3-5; 3:13-26; 2 Timothy 2:13; 2 Peter 3:18. The best way to make sure of a successful past is to have a successful present.

III. The Preparation of the People; 1:10-18.

1. Faith obeys God’s commands; Vs. 10:11.

2. The people’s recognition of Joshua’s authority; Vs. 16-18. God not only prepared Joshua but the people too.

Lesson 59: Rahab
Joshua 2:1-24; 6:25
Golden Text: Romans 10:17

Here is another beautiful picture of God’s salvation.

I. Her Position; 2:1; 6:1, 2.

1. She lived in a condemned city. Under the judgment of God. Cp. John 3:18; 3:36; Romans 5:12; Galatians 3:10; 1 John 5:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9.

2. She lived among an unbelieving- people; Romans 11:32; Ephesians 2:2, 3; Galatians 3:22; Romans 3:23, etc. They had as much evidence as she, but did not act on it.

3. She was a Gentile. Cp. Ephesians 2:11, 12; and as such outside God’s covenants of Israel.

II. Her Condition. 2:1.

1. Morally wrong; 2:1. A harlot. The corrupt nature manifested itself in open sin. Romans 3:10-19; 8:6-8.

2. Helpless to change herself. She needed a new nature. Cp. Jeremiah 13:23; 2:22; Job 9:30, 31; John 3:3.

3. Unable to avert the doom of the city. Romans 6:23; Ezekiel 18:4; Jude 14-15; 2 Peter 3:9, 10.

III. Her Privileges. 2:1-15.

1. She heard of the God of Israel; Vs. 8-11. She had heard of His power in redemption, deliverance, provision and protection and judgment. Well might she tremble! Cp. Romans 10:17. Have you heard of your need, your danger, God’s way of salvation? Privilege brings responsibility.

2. She believed in His person; V. 11. She turned from the idolatrous worship, and believed in the true God.

3. She believed in His word; V. 9 Cp. John 3:32; Romans 3:3-5.

4. She acted upon what she believed thus proving her faith; 4:12-15; Hebrews 11:31; Romans 4:5; James 2:17-26.

IV. Her Deliverance.

1. Outside of herself. She did not plan it. Cp. John 3:16; 1 John 4:10; Ephesians 2:2-9; 1 Corinthians 1:29.

2. All of grace—she was the least deserving. Cp. 2 Corinthians 8:9; Deuteronomy 7:7-9; 1 Timothy 1:15; Matthew 9:13.

3. The scarlet line—true picture of the precious blood of Christ. (1) The scarlet line made her safe; 2:18. Cp. Exodus 12:13; 1 Peter 1:18; Romans 3:25. (2) The word made her sure} 2:12, 18. Cp. 1 John 5:10-13; John 5:24, etc., etc.

4. Her salvation; Joshua 6:25. God is true to His word. Cp. Numbers 23:19; Isaiah 45:19.

5. Her missionary spirit; Joshua 2:13; 6:22, 23, 25. The unselfishness of faith. Have you sought to bring your friends and relatives under the shelter of the blood? Romans 10:9, 10; Luke 8:39; Mark 16:15, etc.

6. Her blessing; V. 25. Brought into fellowship with a redeemed people. Cp. Ephesians 2:19-22; Acts 2:41, 42.

7. Her posterity; Matthew 1:5. One of the line through whom the Messiah came. What hath God wrought?

Lesson 60: The Crossing Of The Jordan
Joshua 3:1—4:18
Golden Text: Romans 6:10, 11

I. The Preparation; 3:1-13.

1. The removal to Shittim; V. 1.

2. The directions; Vs. 2-4. The ark (a type of Christ) to be the guide on the untrodden pathway. Cp. John 10:4; Psalm 23:1-2; Hebrews 12:1, 2.

3. The command and the promise; V. 5. Cp. 2 Corinthians 6:14; 7:1; John 17:17; 1 John 1:7-9.

4. The encouragement; Vs. 7-8. God’s commands are His enablings. Behind Joshua was the eternal God to Whom all things are possible.

5. The further directions; Vs. 9-13; Note V. 11.

II. The Crossing; 3:14-17.

1. The miracle of the divided waters; Vs. 14-16. What a sight it must have been. Note the period; V. 15; the time of overflow.

2. The sheltering ark; V. 17. Note where the ark stood. It remained there until all had safely crossed.

3. The safe crossing, “all;” V. 17. None lost. Cp. John 17:12; Hebrews 7:25.

III. The Memorial 4:1-24.

1. The representative men; Vs. 1-2.

2. The typical stones; Vs. 3-9. Taken up, carried over, laid down and set up.

3. The purpose; V. 6. A memorial. Picture the children of future generations asking “What mean these stones?” Cp other memorials God has given. Exodus 12:26, 27; 13:13, 14; Deuteronomy 6:20-25; Psalm 44:1; 78:1-8. Present memorials: Baptism, Matthew 28:19; The Lord’s Supper, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. Explain: What mean ye by this service?

IV. The Type.

1. The passage of the Jordan is a type, picture or illustration of the believer’s death with Christ. Cp. Romans 6:1-11; Ephesians 2:5, 6; Colossians 3:1-3. God views the believer as identified with Christ in His death, burial, resurrection and ascension. As the believer reckons this to be true and acts upon it he will be enabled to enter into his spiritual inheritance and enjoy it.

2. Picture of the gospel, in that the passage or the Jordan, like God’s way of salvation, was

(1) A strange way; Acts 17:18-20, unexpected.

(2) A new way; Joshua 3:4; Hebrews 10:20. (3) An easy way; Ephesians 2:8, 9. No works, bridges of man’s making, etc. (4) A short way; John 6: 47; no long detour such as ceremonials, penance, resolutions, etc. (5) A safe way; John 10:28: V. 17. All “clean over.” (6) A divinely appointed way; Joshua 3:7, 8. Joshua did not devise it and the people did not ask for it; John 3:16, etc. (7) The only way; Acts 4:12. If they had refused to accept it they could not have crossed.—Alf. Sandham.

Lesson 61: The Fall Of Jericho
Joshua 5:12—6:27
Golden Text: 1 Corinthians 1:21

I. The Unseen Commander; Joshua 5:12; 6:5.

1. The new food; Vs. 11-12. For forty years God had sustained them by the manna. Cp. 1 Peter 2:2; 1 Corinthians 3:1-3; Hebrews 5:12-14. Cp. John 12:24; 6:57. The manna spoke of Christ in humiliation. The corn of the land speaks of Christ in exaltation. The Christian must be occupied, not only with a Saviour who has died for him, but with one who ever lives to keep and satisfy His own. Christ crucified, saves. Christ glorified, satisfies.

2. The wondrous vision; Vs. 13-14. One of the many theophanies of the O. T., i.e., a manifestation of God to men by actual appearance. These theophanies were undoubtedly appearances of the second Person in the Trinity. Cp. Genesis 18; Ex. 23:20; 32:34; Judges 6:12-14; 13:15-21. Note marg of V. 18, and Cp Isaiah 9:6. Read also Isaiah 6:1-3, and Cp. John 12:41, etc., etc. (1) The question; V. 13. (2) The answer: V. 14. The captain. Cp. Hebrews 2:10. (3) The effect; V. 14. Cp. Isaiah 6:5; Luke 5:8; Daniel 10:8; Job 40:4, 5; 42:5,6, etc. (4) The command; V. 15. Cp. Exodus 3:5; Hebrews 1:1-3; John 1:1-3; 17:5. His eternal glory and intrinsic holiness.

3. The revelation; 6:2-5; of the plan of campaign. (1) The assurance; V. 2. (2) The plan; Vs. 3-5. God’s command and man’s obedience both necessary.

II. The Compassed City; Vs. 6-25.

1. The order of the march; Vs. 6-16. Note the position of the ark—“in the midst;” V. 9. Cp. John 15:5; Matthew 18:20. Christ in the midst. (1) On the cross; John 19:18. (2) In the church; Matthew 18:20; Revelation 1:13. (3) On the throne; Revelation 5:6. Picture the solemn march, day after day with a silent army encompassing the city. Perhaps the people of Jericho jeered at them from the walls as day by day passed with not a word spoken or an attempt made to storm the walls.

2. The warning; Vs. 17-19. Cp. 2 Corinthians 6:17. See 1 John 2:15-17.

3. The final shout; Vs. 16, 20.

4. The astonishing result; Vs. 20-24. To the eyes of the people of Jericho it probably looked foolish to see the encompassing army, but Cp. 1 Corinthians 1:18-29.

5. Rahab saved; Vs. 22-25 According to the promise given her.

III. The Lessons to be learned. The principles governing victory.

1. Rolling away the reproach; 5:9, 10; Separation. The knife of the word applied to the flesh.

2. Obedience; 5:11.

3. Feeding on old corn; 5:11.

4. A commander revealed; 5:13.

5. A worshipful spirit; 5:14.

6. A listening ear; 5:14.

7. An obedient heart; 5:15.

8. A revealed plan; 6:3-5.

9. Obedience implicit and unwavering to that plan; V. 16.

10. Victory always the result. Cp. 1 John 5:4, etc.

Lesson 62: The Sin Of Achan
Joshua 7:1-26
Golden Text: Proverbs 28:13

I. The Sin. V. 1.

1. The plain warning; 6:17, 18. Cp. Matthew 18:7.

2. The deliberate disobedience; V. 1. The essence of all sin is disobedience. Cp. 1 John 3:4; 5:17; 1 Samuel 15:23. Note: all Israel is affected by the one transgression; Rom 5:12; Proverbs 8:36; 1 Corinthians 12:26.

II. The Result. Vs. 2-5.

1. The spies sent out; Vs. 2-5.

2. The defeat; Vs. 4-5. Sin weakens; Isaiah 1:10-17. Cp. Deuteronomy 32:30; Leviticus 26:7, 8; Illus. Judges 16:6-21.

3. The effect; V. 5. “Melted.” Cp. Eccl. 9:18.

III. Joshua’s Cry; Vs. 6-9.

1. Humiliation; V. 6.

2. His cry; Vs. 7-8. Note this carefully.

IV. God’s Answer; Vs. 10-15.

1. The charge; Vs. 10-11. Cp. Jeremiah 4:18; Romans 3:10-19, 23; Hebrews 1:13.

2. The remedy; Vs. 12-15. (1) Separation; V. 13. There can be no toleration with unconfessed and unjudged sin. (2) Confession; V. 14; 1 John 1:9; Psalm 51:2. (3) Judgment; V. 15. Unsparing and complete; Romans 6:23, etc.

V. The Examination; Vs. 16-18.

What must the feelings of Achan have been as the search narrowed itself down to him! Cp. Numbers 32:23 Impress this Cp. 1 Timothy 5:24; Matthew 12:36; 10:26, 27; Luke 12:2, 3; Revelation 20:10-15. Be sure your sin will find you out—if not in time then in eternity!

VI. The Confession; Vs. 19-23. “I have sinned.” Cp. Exodus 9:27; Numbers 22:34; 1 Samuel 15:24; Matthew 27:4; Job 7:20; Luke 15:21. Note the stages of his sin.

1. Saw; V. 21. Cp. Genesis 3:6; 2 Samuel 11:2; 1 John 2:16.

2. Coveted; V. 21; Exodus 20:17; 1 Timothy 6:9-10.

3. Took: V. 21. The next natural step. Doubtless Achan looked each way before taking it, but he didn’t look up.

4. Hid. Nothing can be hidden from God; Hebrews 4:13; Psalm 139:1-12; Proverbs 5:22; Isaiah 57:20.

VII. The Punishment! Vs. 24-26.

Cp. The great assize to come; Revelation 20:10-15. What fearful secrets will there be revealed unless sheltered by the precious blood! John 5:24; Romans 8:1; 1 John 1:7.

1. The day has been appointed; Acts 17:31.

2. The Judge has been selected; John 5:22.

3. The evidence is being gathered; Matthew 12: 36, 37.

4. The witnesses subpoenaed; Matthew 12:41, 42.

5. The accused will all be present; Revelation 20:12.

6. The books will be opened; Revelation 20:12.

7. The sentence will be executed; Revelation 20:14.

Lesson 63: The League With Gibeon
Joshua 9:l-27
Golden Text: Proverbs 22:3

I. The Historic Setting.

1. The fall of Jericho followed by the overwhelming defeat of Ai had struck terror into the hearts of the Gibeonites as well it might. Cp. Isaiah 20:9.

2. The altar in Ebal; 8:30, 31.

3. The reading of the blessings and the curses of the law. Cp. Vs. 32-35; Deuteronomy 27:11-26. Cp. Gal 3:10-13. Picture the solemn scene and apply the truth of Romans 7:7-14. Contrast Romans 6:14 and see the blessings under grace. John 1:17.

II. The Wily Ambassage; Vs. 3-14. What these people confessed through guile should be the true confession of every sinner without any deceit. Note their state.

1. They knew their need of a peace to protect them; V. 24. Cp. Isaiah 57:21; Romans 8:5-8; Ephesians 2:1-3; 4:18; Colossians 1:21, etc. They saw their need—have you?

2. The wine bottles old, rent and bound up; Matthew 9:17. All the attempts of self-reformation in vain. “A new creature” is what God requires. Cp. John 3:3; Jeremiah 2:22; 13:23. Cp. Ephesians 1:13; 1 Corinthians 12:13; 3:16; 6:19, 20; 2 Corinthians 5:17. The wine bottles could also illustrate the pleasures of sin which for a while bring happiness, but soon fail to thrill and leave the soul barren and thirsty.

3. The old garments; V. 5. Cp. Isaiah 64:6. The filthy rags of the sinner’s self-righteousness. Cp. Philippians 3:4-9; Romans 10:3. Cp. Isaiah 61:10; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 3:24-26; Galatians 2:16, etc.

4. The moldy bread; V. 5. The world’s perpetual famine; Luke 15:14; Isaiah 55:2; 1 John 2:15-16. “The world has nothing left to give.” Cp. John 6:35; Philippians 4:19, etc.

5. The far country—where every sinner is by nature. Cp. Isaiah 59:1, 2; Luke 15:13; Ephesians 2:13.

6. They heard the news; V. 9. Of redemption by blood; Exodus 12. Of deliverance by power; Exodus 14. Of miraculous provision; Exodus 16. Of divine preservation. Cp. Acts 13:38; Rom 10:17; John 3:16; Mark 16:15, 16, etc.

7. They took the place of servants—humbled themselves. Cp. Romans 6:16, 17; John 8:34; Luke 14:11.

III. The Leagues Vs. 14-15.

1. The fatal omission; V. 14. They depended on their own judgment. Cp. 1 Samuel 16:7. “The arm of flesh will fail us, we dare not trust our own.”

2. The covenant made; V. 15. A covenant of life. Cp. Hebrews 10:11-17; Isaiah 55:3; Matthew 11:28; John 5:24; 3:16, 36; 10:10, etc.

3. The discovery; V. 16; but the covenant must stand. If the word given by man must stand; how much more of the covenant of God! 1 Timothy 2:13; Romans 11:29; Hebrews 6:17-20.

4. The service; Vs. 22-27. Cp. Romans 6:17-22.

Lesson 64: The Conquest Of Canaan
Joshua 10-11, 14
Golden Text: Joshua 21:45

I. The Conquest of the South; C. 10. A map is essential to a proper grasp of this lesson. Study the positions carefully.

1. The federation of the kings; 10:1-5. Notice, however, all was in the line of God’s purpose; see 11:20. Cp. Psalm 2:1-2; Acts 2:23; 4:28; 3:18, etc.

2. Gibeon’s plea; V. 6. Based on the promise made to them by Joshua. Cp. Romans 5:10.

3. The encouragement; V. 8. Cp. Joshua 1:6-8; Acts 18:9, 10; Hebrews 13:5, 6.

4. The victory; Vs. 9-15. All of God. (1) The rout; V. 10. (2) The storm of hailstones; V. 11. What a fearful scene it must have been. Compare a future storm yet to burst; Isaiah 28:16 23. Note V. 21; Nahum 1:6; Matthew 3:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:8. Who may abide? Answer: Romans 8:1. Are you there? (3) The sun and moon stand still; Vs. 12-14. He who created the sun and moon can control their movements. The Creator is always greater than the thing He creates. Genesis 8:14; Ephesians 3:20.

5. The execution of the kings; V. 16:27.

6. The further victories; Vs. 28-43. This completed the conquest of the South.

II. The Conquest of the North. C. 11.

1. The further federation; Vs. 1-5.

2. The promise renewed; V. 6.

3. The complete conquest; Vs. 10-23. Note V. 23. What God promises He performs.

III. Caleb’s Inheritance. C. 14:6-15; 15:13-19.

1. His character. (1) His confidence in God’s power: Numbers 13:20, and faithfulness to perform what He had promised. (2) His wholehearted devotedness; Numbers 14:30. He followed God fully Cp. Philippians 3:8; Romans 6:13, 14; 12:1, 2; 1 Corinthians (6:19, 20; 2 Corinthians 5:15. (3) His consistency and endurance. After 40 years he was still going on with God; Josh 14:8, 10. Cp. 1 Corinthians 15:58. (4) His courage; Josh 14:11. Cp. 1 Tim 6:12; Philippians 1:28; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:10-18. O for more Calebs!

2. His request; Vs. 6-12. (1) His testimony to God’s goodness; V. 7. (2) His faith in the promise of God; V. 9. (3) His appropriation of God’s promise to him to possess his possessions. See Obad. 17.

3. His inheritance; Vs. 13-15. Hebron, the place of many memories. Hebron means “fellowship.” Cp. 1 John 1:3.

4. Possessing the possession; Joshua 15:13-19. Are we possessing what is ours in Christ? We are “accepted in Him;” Ephesians 1:6. Are we seeking to be “accepted of Him?” 2 Corinthians 5:9. We have eternal life in Him; John 5:24. Are we seeking to lay hold on eternal life? 1 Timothy 6:12. Illust. of possession, without appropriation. 1 Kings 22:3.

Lesson 65: Joshua’s Last Words
Joshua 23-24
Golden Text: Proverbs 1:7

I. The First Gathering; C. 23.

1. Note the period—six years had passed. The land had been distributed and Joshua was old; V. 1.

2. The call for conference; V. 2. The periodic coming tog-ether of God’s people for prayer, exhortation and ministry has a good foundation in the word of God.

3. Joshua’s speech. Note carefully its elements; Vs. 2-16. (1) Testimony; Vs. 2-4. To the faithfulness, power and grace of God. (2) Promise; V. 5. Of complete deliverance from all their enemies, conditional, however, on their cooperation with His purpose. (3) Exhortation; Vs. 6-10. (a) To obedience to the Word of God; V. 6. (b) To separation; V. 7. Cp. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Ephesians 5:11. (c) To whole-hearted devotion; V. 8-11. Cp. Acts 11:23; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 1:20, 21. (4) Warning; Vs. 12-16. (a) Against the unequal yoke; V. 12. (b) The glowing testimony; V. 4. Note this carefully and Cp. Deuteronomy 7:8, 9; 9:5; 1 Samuel 12:22: 1 Chronicles 28:20; Psalm 89:28, 33, 34; 119:65, 89; 2 Timothy 2:13. (c) Against apostasy; Vs. 15-16 Compare this speech with the last words of the great apostle to his son in the faith, Timothy. In view of the apostasy he warns Timothy and seeks to encourage him in the things of God. 2 Timothy 4:1-8.

II. The Second Gathering. C. 24.

1. The recital of God’s goodness; Vs. 1-13. This illustrates the history of a soul. (1) From idolatry (V. 2). (2) To the promised land (V. 13), and (3) the grace of God all between! Cp. Ephesians 2:12-19. Note the similarity.

2. The exhortation; V. 14. Note “the fear of the Lord.” It is (1) The beginning of wisdom; Psalm 111:10. (2) A fountain of life; Proverbs 14:27. (3) Secret of a holy life; Proverbs 8:13. (4) Secret of assurance: Proverbs 14:26. (5) Secret of true prosperity; Proverbs 22:4; 15:16.

3. The bold decision; V. 15. See some other decisions. Abraham’s; Genesis 12:1. Moses’; Hebrews 11:25. Noah; Genesis 7:1-5. Ruth; Ruth 1:16, 17. Prodigal son; Luke 15:8, etc. What is yours?

4. The reply; Vs. 16-18. The result of testimony. Is anyone else a Christian because you are one?

5. The warning; Vs. 19-22.

6. The practical application; V. 23. Cp. James 1:22; 2:14-26. Practical Godliness is the best proof of a whole-hearted decision.

7. The death of Joshua; Vs. 24-31. A good beginning is necessary for a good ending. Note the reference to the written word of God. Cp. Deuteronomy 31:24. This was written by Divine inspiration; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 2:21.

Lesson 66: Deborah’s Victory And Song
Judges 4-5
Golden Text: Psalm 9:10

The key phrase to the book of Judges is “Every man did that which was right in his own eyes” and this explains the monotonous record of failure that it describes. Jeremiah 10:23.

I. The Historic Setting: Chapters 1-3.

1. The failure of Israel; C 1. Note Vs 19, 21, 27, 29, 30, 31, 33, 35. Whose fault was it? Cp. Micah 2:7; 2 Corinthians 6:12.

2. The warning; V. 2:1-5. Thus God faithfully warned His people of the danger of the unequal yoke and of spiritual apathy. The more sin is tolerated the less evil it appears.

3. The wearisome round; C. 2-3. The history of Israel under the Judges seems to be an ever recurring sequence of (1) Their sin; (2) God’s punishment through their enemies’ oppression; (3) Their repentance and confession; (4) Deliverance and restoration. Illust. Judges 2:11-19. Apply this spiritually.

4. The first Judges; C. 3. (1) Othniel; 3:1-11. (a) Note the sad condition of Israel; Vs. 5-7. From intermarriage they had gone into open idolatry. Cp. 1 John 2:15, 16. (c) The deliverance; Vs. 9-11. Note when; V. 9. Note how; V. 10. By the Spirit; Zechariah 4:6. (2) Ehud; Vs. 12-30. (3) Shamgar; V. 31. Note the weak things that God uses in Judges and by means of which His strength is made perfect; 1 Corinthians 1:26-31; 2 Corinthians 12:9. The left hand; 3:21; Ox-goad, 3:31; a nail, 4:21: barley cake, 7:13 pitchers and trumpets, 7:20; a millstone, 9:53; jawbone of ass, 15:16, etc.

II. The Victory. C. 4.

1. The servitude; Vs. 1-3. Note for how long. Cp. Jeremiah 2:19, 13; 3:22-23.

2. The prophetess; Vs. 4-5. A unique character. An evidence of the paucity of Israel In real men.

3. The revelation; Vs. 6-9.

4. The Lord’s battle, not Barak’s. Cp. Psalm 24:8.

5. The execution of Sisera; Vs. 18-22, by the hand of a woman.

III. The song. C. 5. Cp. other songs; Exodus 15:1; Psalm 40:1-3; Revelation 5:9.

1. God’s interposition; Vs. 1-5.

2. The people’s apostasy; Vs. 6-8.

3. Deborah’s testimony; Vs. 7, 12.

4. The rebuke to those who did not go to battle; Vs. 16-17, 23. Note especially V. 23. The sin of omission. Compare the hundreds of professing Christians today who take no responsibility in the service of the Lord, but leave it to the faithful few. James 4:17; 1 Corinthians 15:58. The Lord deliver us from the curse of Meroz. The people who did nothing.

5. The battle described; Vs. 19-22.

6. Sisera’s death; Vs. 24-30.

7. Conclusions; V. 31. Cp. Psalm 84:5-7; 2 Timothy 2:1; Ephesians 6:10.

Lesson 67: Gideon’s Call
Judges 6
Golden Text: 1 Corinthians 1:27

I. The Condition of the People. 6:1-6.

1. The old story of sin and its consequences; V. 1.

2. Their pitiable state; Vs. 2-5. Reduced to a state of famine. Cp. The prodigal son; Luke 15. Sin withers, blasts and impoverishes. True of the Christian as well as the unsaved.

3. Their cry; V. 7. Cp. Deuteronomy 4:26-31. They had a promise to plead. Cp. 1 John 1:9; 2:1, 2.

4. The prophet’s message; Vs. 8-10. (1) A reminder of past blessings and deliverances. (2) Of His command; V. 10. (3) A reminder of their sin; V. 10.

II. The Divine Messenger; Vs. 11-24.

1. Who the messenger was. Note Vs. 14, 16, etc. Another of those wonderful Christophanies.

2. The salutation; Vs. 11-12. Note Gideon’s occupation; V. 11. A message of encouragement; V. 12.

3. Gideon’s complaint; V. 13. There is a reason for all God’s dealings with His people. Cp. Hebrews 12:5-11.

4. The message; Vs. 14-16. (1) Its content, (a) The command; V. 14—“Go!” (b) The commission, “Shalt save.” (c) The authority, “I sent.” (2) The objection; V. 15. Refreshing humility. Cp. Exodus 3:11; Luke 14:11; Ephesians 3:8. (3)The promise; V. 16. Cp. 2 Corinthians 12:9; Matthew 28:19, 20; 2 Corinthians 9:8; 3:5. Illustration, an empty glove is powerless to do anything, but when placed on the hand, is clothed with all the strength of the arm.

5. The sign; Vs. 17-24. A Divine phenomenon.

6. The altar; V. 24. Note its name. Cp. Ephesians 2:14, 17; Colossians 1:21; Romans 5:1; Philippians 5:6, 7.

III. The Destroyed Idol. Vs. 25-32.

1. The command; Vs. 25-26. (1) To break down; V. 25. (2) To set up; V. 2. God destroys the bad that He might give the best. Cp. Acts 20:21. “Repentance,” break-down; “faith,” build-up. 1 Thessalonians 1:9.

2. The obedience; V. 27. A brave act in the face of popular opinion.

3. The result; Vs. 28-32. The test of common sense; Vs. 30-31. The foolishness of idolatry; Psalm 115:4-8; Isaiah 40:18-22. Cp. 1 Kings 18:27. If the idol could not protect itself, what protection could it possibly give to anyone else? All man-made gods are silent and powerless in the hour of need. Cp. the gods of pleasure, fame, sport, business, money, etc.

4. The equipment; V 34. (See marg.). Literally, “The Spirit of God clothed Himself with Gideon.” Cp. Daniel 11:32. Yet Cp. John 16:16, 17.

5. The sign of the dew on the fleece; Vs. 36-38.

6. The sign of the dew on the ground; Vs. 39-40.

Lesson 68: Gideon’s Victory
Judges 7
Golden Text: Isaiah 57:15

I. The Tests; Vs. 1-8.

1. The necessity for it; Vs. 1-2. There was an army of 32,000. Cp. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29; John 6:63; Matthew 11:25, 26; Deuteronomy 8:11-18; Isaiah 10:13.

2. The first test; V. 3. Cp. Deuteronomy 20:8. The result: Two-thirds of the army depleted. Cp. 2 Tim 2:3; 1 Corinthians 16:13; Philippians 1:28; 2 Timothy 1:7.

3. The second test; Vs. 4-7. To test their earnestness, energy and eagerness for the battle of the Lord by denial of self-indulgence. The result: Only 300 left. Cp. 1 Peter 1:7; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Titus 2:11, 12; 1 Corinthians 9:27.

II. The Encouragement; Vs. 9-15.

1. The visit to the camp. Vs. 9-12.

2. The dream; Vs. 13:14. God’s purpose in dreams in the O. T. Job. 33:14-17. This was for Gideon’s encouragement.

3. The effect; V. 15.

III. The Plan; Vs. 16-18.

1. To human eyes—foolishness, as also is God’s way of salvation through the crucified and risen Son of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18; 3:18-21. God uses weak things—the jawbone of an ass; Judges 15:15. The stone of a shepherd boy; 1 Sam 17: 40. The little maid; 2 Kings 5:2, etc., etc.

2. The equipment—very simple; Vs. 16-17. A trumpet—an empty vessel—a lamp—an. example. A picture of how God works today through His people. (1) The trumpet—Picture of the gospel message to be sounded out; Ezekiel 33:3-6; Acts 13:38; 1 Corinthians 14:8; Mark 16:15, 16. (2)The empty vessel—picture of the redeemed sinner. Cp. 2 Corinthians 4:7. If he is to be used by God he must be emptied of all pride, self esteem, self sufficiency and all that would hinder the purpose of God through him. See 2 Timothy 2:21. (3) The torch or fire brand—Light=testimony. Cp. Matthew 5:16. See also Philippians 2:15. Like John the Baptist the Christian should be “a burning and a shining light.” John 5:35. Only as we burn for Him shall we shine. (4) A leader—an example. Cp. Hebrews 12:1, 2; 1 Peter 2:21. Cp. “Follow Me and I will make you to become” Matthew 4:19. Christ is our example in (a) Love, John 13:34. (b) Self denial. John 12:24, 25. (c) Service, John 13:14, 15. (d) Humility, Philippians 2:5-8. (e) Walk, 1 John 2:6. (f) Suffering, 1 Peter 2:20, 21.

IV. The Victory; Vs. 19-85. Picture this scene: The darkness and silence of the night broken by the shrill trumpets and the blazing lights and the triumphant cry.

1. The Surprise; Vs. 19-22.

2. The confusion; V. 22. Note the source of it.

3. The rout; Vs. 23-24.

Lesson 69: Abimelech And Jephthah
Judges 9-11
Golden Text: Isaiah 57:20, 21

Once again, in these chapters, is the record of the confusion that reigned in Israel during this period of the Judges.

I. Abimelech’s Treachery; 9:1-6.

1. The cause of it—Love of power, popularity and position. How many a man since has lost his soul for these same things! Ill. Pilate, Agrippa, Judas. Cp. Mark 8:36, 37.

2. The effect of it—his fearful sin. What God has to say about the sanctity of human life. Genesis 9:6; Psalm 73:3-12. Often the ungodly seem to prosper but the reckoning day is yet to come; Revelation 20:10-15; Hebrews 9:27.

II. Jotham’s Parable; Vs. 7-21. Really a fable.

1. Its purpose; V. 7; to bring home the sin of Abimelech to the people. The chief point In it is to drive home the fact that no worth while and useful person would have acted thus; but only a worthless bramble like Abimelech. Cp. Nathan’s parable; 2 Samuel 12; and Christ’s Matthew 13:3, etc.

2. The parable; Vs. 8-15.

3. The application; Vs. 16-21.

III. Abimelech’s death; Vs. 22-57. His reign was short and turbulous. Cp. Isaiah 57:20, 21; 2. I Kings 9:22; Hosea 8:7; Galatians 6:7; Job 4:8. There is no reduction in the wages of sin; Romans 6:23; Eccl. 5:8.

IV. Tola and Jair. C. 10.

1. Tola; 10:1-2.

2. Jair; 10:3-18. Note the description of Israel’s condition. (1) Their idolatry, V. 6. A good Bible dictionary will give a description of these idols. (2) The punishment; Vs. 7-9. (3) Their confession and God’s answer; Vs. 10-14. (4) Their repentance; Vs. 15-16.

V. Jephthah the Deliverer. C. 11.

1. The outlaw; Vs. 1-5; the despised one.

2. The plea; Vs. 6-8.

3. The ambassage to Ammon; Vs. 12-28. Jephthah’s reply to the King of Ammon reveals the common knowledge of the history of Israel, obtained from the scriptural record.

4. The preparation; V. 29. This special enduement is mentioned often in Judges—trace the work of the Spirit of God in the O. T.

5. The vow; Vs. 30-40. (1) His vow; Vs. 30-31. Jephthah was not acting on God’s orders when he made his rash vow. It was purely his own idea. Scripture simply records the .history of it, but in no way commends it. (2) Victory; Vs. 32-33. (3) His grief; Vs. 34-36. Verses 37-40 seem to indicate she was not put to death but rather took a vow of perpetual virginity. Note especially Verse 40 (margin).

Lesson 70: Samson—His Early Life
Judges 13-14
Golden Text: Proverbs 20:1

The story of Samson is the tragic record of the weakest strong man of Scripture. It contains much in the way of warning concerning the danger of making shipwreck of one’s life. Samson’s promised much and yielded so little for God. I. The Divine Messenger; Vs. 1-23.

1. The condition of Israel; V. 1. The same story again with the same condition brought about by their own sin.

2. The promise of the son; Vs. 2-5. (1) Another of the Christophanies—the manifestation of the Son of God. (2) The promise; V. 3. (3) The warning; Vs. 4-5. Cp. Numbers 6:1-5. The practical application—denial of self and separation unto God; 2 Corinthians 6:17; 7:1; 2 Timothy 2:21, 22; 1 Corinthians 9:25-27. (4) The plea; Vs. 6-8.

3. The second appearance; Vs. 9-23. (1) The emphasized conditions; Vs. 9-14. The blessings of temperance. (2) The offer; Vs. 51-17. Note V. 16 and Cp. Matthew 19:17. (3) The revelation of His name; V. 18. See marg. and Cp. Isaiah 9:6. “Wonderful.” Wonderful in (a) His birth, (b) in His life, (c) in His works, (d) in His words, (e) in His death, (f) in His resurrection, (g) in His present ministry, (h) in His coming again. (4) The offering; Vs. 19-23. What a marvelous sight!

II. The Birth of Samson; Vs. 24-25.

1. The fulfilled promise; V. 24. Cp. Numbers 23:19; Joshua 21:45, etc.

2. The preparation; V. 25.

III. Samson’s Riddle; V. 14.

1. His visit to Timnath; Vs. 1-4. Notice Samson’s answer to his father’s objection: “She pleaseth me.” Here is the key to his weakness— self pleasing There are three kinds of pleasers: (1) “The God-pleasers. How? Romans 8:8; Hebrews 11:6; 1 John 3:22; Psalm 69:31; Colossians 1:10; Philippians 2:12, 13; Psalm 51:19. (2) The self-pleasers; Romans 15:1-3; 2 Corinthians 5:14, 15. (3) The men-pleasers; 1 Thessalonians 2:4; Galatians 1:10; Colossians 3:22; Ephesians 6:6. To which class do we belong? True greatness consists of living the God-pleasing life. See Hebrews 11:5.

2. The lion slain; Vs. 5-6. Note the power for this superhuman task of slaying a lion single handed. How sad to think that such a strong person could become so weak! What great possibilities for God and His people were Samson’s, and how little were these possibilities realized because of his lack of cooperation with God!

3. The strange sight; Vs. 7-9. Sweet from the strong; life from death. A good illustration of the blessings that flow to man through Christ’s finished work—Life and sweetness; 2 Timothy 1:10.

4. The riddle; Vs. 10-14.

5. The strategy; Vs. 15-17.

6. The solution; V. 18.

7. The result; Vs. 18-20.

Lesson 71: Samson—His Downfall And Death
Judges 15-16
Golden Text: 2 Timothy 2:1

By definite steps he descended until he was ruined

I. His Great Feat of Strength. C. 15-16:3.

1. Its Source. Cp. 15:14, 19; 14:6, etc. See also Isaiah 40:29-31; 30:15; 26:4; Psalm 18:1; 138:3; 95:4; Ephesians 3:16.

2. Its Condition—Separation unto God. Psalm 52:7; Judges 8:21; Psalm 31:3, 10; 147:10, 11.

3. Its Manifestation. “Weak things.” 15:9-20; Cp. 1 Corinthians 1:27-29. Only as Samson yielded himself to the Lord was he given that strength which made him famous. His strength was in the Lord.

II. His Folly and Downfall. A picture of the Backslider. Chap. 16:4-30.

1. The Unequal Yoke. V. 4; Cp. Deuteronomy 7:2-4; Ezra 9:1, 2, 12; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, Hosea 7:9.

2. The Temptation. Vs. 5-16. Instead of fleeing from it he played with it. Cp. James 1:13, 14; 2 Timothy 2:22; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Illust. Joseph, Genesis 39. Notice her question: “Tell me, pray thee, wherein thy great strength lieth?” In what does the believer’s strength lie? (1) In the Lord. Psalms 46:1; 140:7; 73:26; 84:5. (2) By prayer. Isaiah 40:31. (3) By a separated life. Job 17:9. (4)By the joy of the Lord. Nehemiah 8: 10. (5) By consciousness of our own weakness and reliance on Him. 2 Corinthians 12:9. (6) By faith. Romans 4:20; Hebrews 11:24. (7) By the Word of God. 1 John 2:14. The neglect of any of these results in spiritual weakness and failure.

3. The Sleep. Vs. 17-20. On the knees of his temptress, in the midst of his enemies. How foolish! Cp. Luke 22:46. 1 Thess 5:5-8; Proverbs 24:33, 34; Ephesians 5:14; Romans 13:11, 12. A sleeping Christian is a menace and stumbling block to the unsaved. Beware of the sleep of worldliness, formality, self indulgence. It leads to loss of power.

4. The Capture. Vs. 20. 21. (1) His pitiable ignorance. V. 20. Is it true of us? (2) His ignominious defeat.

5. The Pitiable Bondage. V. 21. (1) Blinded— walking in darkness. Cp. Isaiah 59:8-10; John 8:12. The light of testimony put out. Matthew 5:16: Cp. Luke 11:33-36. (2) Caused God to be blasphemed. V. 24. Cp. 2 Samuel 12:14; Romans 2:24; 1 Timothy 6:1; Titus 2:5. (3) Made an object of ridicule instead of fear. V. 27. The world has no respect for the backslider. (4) Grinding in the prison. V. 21. Cp. Romans 6: 13, 16. The Devil dines, wines, blinds, binds, and grinds his victims.

III. His Death. 16:25-31.

1. The forgotten lesson. V. 22

2. The Prayer. V. 28; Cp. Psalm 51:12; Jeremiah 3: 12. 22; 31:20; Hosea 14:4; 2 Chronicles 7-14; 1 John 1:9 etc.

3. The Result. V. 30. Thus ended a life that promised so much for God, but accomplished so little.

Lesson 72: The Story Of Ruth
Ruth 1-4
Golden Text: Ruth 1:16

I. Ruth Deciding. C. 1.

1. The Wrong Choice; vs. 1, 2. (1) The Famine, cp. 1 Kings 8:35, 36. Its cause and cure. (2) The sojourn in Moab—the place of stagnation; Jeremiah 48:11; cp. other disastrous sojourns; Abraham, Genesis 12:10; Issac, Genesis 26:1; Lot, Genesis 13:11-13, and their consequences.

2. The Fearful Consequences; vs. 3-5. Death and desolation; Jeremiah 2:19; Hebrews 3:12; Proverbs 13:15.

3. The Glad Tidings, v. 6, of revival arid provision, due to confession and self judgment. See Judges 3:9, 15, 4:3, 6:6,. The great need of the church today is revival. Revival is a stirring up of the soul after God and His word, will and way. See Psalms 85:6; 138:7.

4. The Great Decision; Vs. 8-18. (1) Naomi the backslider. (2) Orpah the mere professor. (3) Ruth the real possessor. Which are you? Note the appeal; Vs. 12-15. The response; Vs. 16, 17. The result; V. 18. Compare other great decisions. Rebekah’s; Genesis 24. Joshua’s; Joshua 24, Moses’; Hebrews 11. Prodigal Son; Luke 15, etc.

5. The Sad Confession; Vs 19, 20; Cp. Jeremiah 2:19.

II. Ruth Gleaning. C. 2.

1. The Kinsman with the right to redeem; Va. 1, 20. Cp. Ours; Hebrews 2:11, 14-17, Galatians 4:4-6.

2. The Service; Vs. 2, 3.

3. The Blessing and the Gleaning; Vs. 4-23. (1) The blessing. Vs. 4-13. (2) The provision; Vs. 14-23. Gracious, abundant, free! Cp. Psalm 107:9; 2 Corinthians 12:9; Philippians 4:19.

III. Ruth Resting. C. 3.

1. Her Position—at His Feet; Vs. 1-7. The place of blessing; Cp. Luke 7:38; 8:35, etc.

2. Her Relation—Kinsman; V. 9. Near and with right and will to redeem. Boaz means “In him is strength.” How like the Lord Jesus, the strong Son of God and Son of Man! The great Kinsman Redeemer! Psalm 80:15; 89:8.

3. Her Promise; Vs. 11-14.

4. Her Earnest; Vs. 15-18; Cp. 2 Corinthians 1:22; 5:5; Ephesians 1:14

IV. Ruth Rewarded. C. 4.

1. The Redemption; Vs. 1-12. Here is a beautiful type of Christ the Redeemer. According to the law, the redeemer must possess five qualifications. (1) He must have the right as Kinsman. Leviticus 25:47-49. Christ earned this right by becoming Man. Hebrews 2:14. (2) He must be willing to redeem. V. 10. Christ revealed His willingness. See Mark 10:45; John 10:10; 6:37. (3) He must have the power, a slave cannot redeem a slave, he must be a free man. So Christ had no sin. Death had no claim on Him—He magnified the law Isaiah 42:21. (4) He must have the price. Christ as Redeemer paid the full price—His Own precious blood. 1 Peter 2:9; 1:18; 1 Corinthians 6:20; Ephesians 5:25. (5) He must have the receipt. See V. 8. The receipt is the resurrection and glorification of our Redeemer, Romans 4:25 etc.

2. The Relationship; V. 13. His Bride.

3. The Rejoicing; Vs. 14-17.

Lesson 73: The Birth Of Samuel
1 Samuel 1—2:11
Golden Text: Ephesians 3:30, 21

I. A Sorrowful Woman. Vs. 1-8.

1. Childless; Vs. 1-2. A reproach in Israel; Cp. Genesis 30:23. Apply spiritually; Galatians 4:19; 1 Corinthians 4:15.

2. Provoked; V. 6. Note by whom. “The Adversary,” Cp. 1 Peter 5:7-9.

3. Vexed in soul; Vs. 6-8.

II. A Fervent Prayer. Vs. 9-18.

1. Its cause—bitterness of soul; Cp. Psalm 107:5, 6, 12-13, 18-19, 27-28, etc. Man’s extremity—God’s opportunity.

2. Its object—“Lord of Hosts.” The God of the impossible.

3. Its reality. (1) From the heart; Vs. 10. (2) Definite; V. 11. (3) Earnest; V. 15. “Poured out soul.” (4) Persevering “continued;” V. 12; Cp. Matthew 6:6; Ephesians 6:18; James 5:17, 18. (5) Someone has pointed out five things that prayer does, (a) It makes God’s presence real, (b) It makes God’s power felt, (c) It makes God’s will clear, (d) It makes God’s service easy, (e) It makes God’s blessings available. Prayer expresses our own need and helplessness and God’s supply and omnipotence.

III. A Misunderstanding Priest; 12-18. The prayerful person must be prepared to be misunderstood even by those from whom it is least expected.

1. His wrong conclusion, V. 13, based on mere outward observance. John 7:24. Cp. 1 Samuel 16: 7; Matthew 7:1-5.

2. His hasty rebuke. V. 14. James 1:19.

3. Her humble reply. Vs. 15-16. She didn’t fly into a rage and rebuke him for his harshness. Proverbs 15:1.

4. His benediction. V. 17. Eli was not too old to learn nor too proud to own his mistake.

IV. A Wonderful Answer; Vs. 19-28.

1. The child; V. 20. The name and its meaning. She saw in her child a perpetual reminder of God’s faithfulness.

2. The vow performed; Vs. 22-28. Cp. V. 11; Cp. Eccl. 5:2-6; Acts 5:1, 2; Cp. some other mothers; Moses; Hebrews 11:22; Timothy’s; 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14, 15.

V. A Joyous Response; 2:1-10. Her song of victory. Study this carefully. Compare it with Mary’s song; Duke 1:46-55.

1. Praise for His salvation; V. 1.

2. Worship for His holiness; V. 2.

3. Testimony to His faithfulness and power; Vs. 3-9.

4. Prophecy as to His future work; V. 10. Compare some other songs of the Bible; Psalm 40:1-3; Exodus 14:31; 15:18; Revelation 5:9-14. Hannah should be an example of true motherhood. The child was given in answer to prayer, born in the atmosphere of prayer, dedicated to the Lord by prayer and the object of continued care. Is it any wonder that Samuel turned out to be one of the greatest prophets? The great need of today is Christian mothers of the Hannah stamp.

Lesson 74: The Call Of Samuel
1 Samuel 2:11-3:21
Golden Text: Isaiah 42:6

I. The Historic Setting. 2:11-36.

1. The iniquity of Eli’s sons. Vs. 12-17. In spite of their position and place of privilege and responsibility “They knew not the Lord.” V. 12. How solemn! Cp. Balaam. Numbers 22-24. Simon. Acts 8:21. Nadab and Abihu. Leviticus 10. 2 Timothy 3:5; Luke 12:48.

2. The Growth of Samuel. Vs. 18-21, 26. What a contrast! The ministry of children. Their (1) conversion. Matthew 19:14; 2 Timothy 3:15. (2) Example. Matthew 18:3. (3) Protection. Matthew 18:10. (4) Ministry. 2 Kings 5:2; Matthew 21:15. (5) Warning. Matthew 18:6. Note Samuel’s growth. He required a bigger coat each year. Cp. 2 Peter 3:18; 1 Peter 2:1-2. Note his character. V. 26.

3. The message of the man of God. Vs. 22-36. (1) Eli’s expostulation and remonstrance with his sons. Vs. 22-25. He had been over indulgent with them and thus failed in his duty. Deuteronomy 21:18-21. It would be good to point out that parents are responsible to God for the conduct of the home. (2) The message. Vs. 27-36. (a) The charge. Vs. 27-29. The responsibility of the parent to rule the child Cp. Prov 13:24; 19:18; 22:15; 23: 13; 29:17, 15; Ephesians 6:1-4; l Timothy 3:4, 5. (b) The punishment. Vs. 30-36. God’s change of purpose. V. 30. The sign. V. 34.

II. The Call. 3:1-14. Note the circumstances. Vs. 1-3.

1. An early call. Vs. 1, 4; Cp. Eccl. 12:1; Revelation 3: 20. The various ways by which God now calls to the young. By the gospel, by bereavement, by accidents, by sickness, etc. God uses all these methods to arouse and convict. Note (1) The universal call of the gospel; Matthew 28: 19; Mark 16:15. (2) The individual call of God’s grace; Galatians 1:15. (a) To separation; Romans 1:7. (b) To fellowship; 1 Corinthians 1:9. (c) To liberty; Galatians 5:13. (d) To peace; Colossians 3:15. (e) to son-ship; 1 John 3:1. (f) To suffer with Him; 1 Peter 2:21. (g) To glory; 2 Peter 1:3.

2. An insistent call. Thrice repeated. How many times has God called you? Cp. Matthew 20:16.

3. An answered call. V. 10. Is this your attitude? The awakened ear, the responsive will, the obedient heart? Matthew 11:15; Isaiah 55:3; Isaiah 1:19; John 5:24.

III. The Result. Vs. 15-21.

1. Explanation Vs. 15-18 It is often hard to be faithful.

2. Approbation. Vs. 19-20; Cp. Matthew 5:16; 1 Thessalonians 1:7-10.

3. Revelation. V. 21. Cp. Revelation 3:20. Here is fellowship with the Lord. “God was with the lad” Genesis 21:2. Christ is not only the Saviour and Lord of those who hear His call, but He is their Friend also.

Lesson 75: The Ark Lost And Returned
1 Samuel 4:1-18; 5:1-12; 6:1-20
Golden Text: Isaiah 42:8

I. The Ark Lost. 4:1-18.

1. The victorious enemy. Vs. 1-2. Their defeat due to their own spiritual condition. Cp. Deuteronomy 20:1-4; John 7:11, 12; Judges 2:13, 14; 13:1; Romans 6:13, 16; Ephesians 6:10-18.

2. The worldly wise expediency. Vs. 3-4; Proverbs 14:14. The ark symbolized the presence of God but it was only a symbol. They used the ark as an object of superstitious awe. They worshipped the form but denied the power. Instead of “Let us confess” they said “Let us fetch.” They sought God afterward instead of at first. God is not an object of convenience! Cp. 1 Corinthians 4:20; Psalm 78:60; 93:5; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:13. Cp. The dead ritualism of Christendom today which makes “a fair show in the flesh” and appeals to the mere emotionalism and religious instinct in man. The cross is worn and waved. Creeds are recited and ordinances observed with great pomp and circumstance, but God is not in it at all. Galatians 6:12.

3. There is no substitute for personal holiness. Religious excitement is no guarantee or substitute for spiritual power; Zechariah 4:6.

4. The Philistines dread. Vs. 5-9, and their brave avowal. The Philistines, like the worldlings of today, hadn’t seen much of God in the lives of those who professed to be His people and whom they had brought under their domination.

5. The capture of the ark. Vs. 10, 11. The ark was not God, but merely symbolized His presence. They had long since turned their back on Him but “wist not that the Lord was departed from them” Judges 16:20. They had clung to the ark instead of cleaving to the Lord.

6. The effect. Vs. 12-18.

II. The Ark in the hands of the Enemy. 5:1; 6:12.

1. Their presumption. Vs. 1-5. If man fails, God will vindicate His own name. Their religion completely upset! Cp. Psalm 115:1-9. The folly of idolatry. Cp. Isaiah 44:9. An idol is anything that puts God in a “secondary place. Cp. 2 Corinthians 6:14-16.

2. Their punishment. Vs. 6-12. Cp. Isaiah 42:8; Romans 1:18-20; Psalm 90:14, 15.

3. Their perplexity. 6:1-6.

4. Their plan. Vs. 7-12.

III. The Ark Returned. Vs. 12-21.

1. The Return. V. 12. God’s miraculous intervention. Cp. Mark 10:27.

2. Their rejoicing. Vs. 13-15. Cp. Psalm 51:12; 85:6.

3. Their presumption. Vs. 19-21. Cp. Exodus 15:11. They exposed themselves to the holy law that knows no mercy. Cp. Romans 7:7-14; 2 Corinthians 3:6, 7.

Lesson 76: Restoration At Mizpeh
1 Samuel 7
Golden Text: 1 Peter 5:6, 7

I. Preparation. Vs. 1-6.

1. The withdrawal of the Divine presence. V. 2. No fellowship, no blessing, no usefulness. Backsliding

(1) Its cause—heart departure from God. Hosea 11:7.

(2) Evidences of it.

(a) Neglect of God’s word.

(b) Neglect of private prayer.

(c) Self-will. Proverbs 14:14.

(d) Neglect of gathering together with God’s people.

(3)Results of it. (a) Joylessness, (b) Restlessness, (c) Uselessness, (d) Harmfulness to
others who see the bad example.

2. Repentance. V. 2. Their desire for God. Twenty wasted years. Cp. James 4:6-10; Psalms 32:3, 4; 51:8-13; Jeremiah 6:16.

3. Separation from known evil. Vs. 3, 4. Sin must be judged and put away. (1) It must be wholehearted. V. 3a. Cp. Deuteronomy 30:1-3; Jeremiah 29:13; Isaiah 55:7; Hosea 6:1; Joel 2:12-14. (2) It must be a thorough separation. V. 3. “Put away.” Cp. 2 Corinthians 7:1.

4. Confession. V. 6. Cp. Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1: 7-10; Psalm 32:5; Luke 15:8. True confession of sin is not a mere “general confession,” but a definite and specific confession of the particular sin, an acknowledgement of its evil, a turning from it with self loathing and a taking sides with God against oneself.

II. Intercession. V. 5. By Samuel on their behalf. Cp. Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1; Hebrews 4:15, 16; 9:24, etc.

III. Opposition. Vs. 7, 8. The enemy’s onslaught. Cp. Ephesians 6:12; Galatians 5:17. There is bound to be opposition to restoration from the world flesh and the devil.

IV. Propitiation. V. 9. Sacrifice the basis of all blessing. Cp. Leviticus 17:11; Hebrews 9:22, 12-14; 1 John 1:7; Hebrews 10:19-22; 1 John 2:1. 2.

V. Restoration. Vs. 10, 11; Psalm 23:3; Isaiah 57:17, 18; Joel 2:25. All done by God on the
ground of the sacrifice offered and accepted.

VI. Commemoration. V. 12. “Ebenezer.” A look back on God’s dealings with them. It is good for the believer to look back and recall all the way the Lord has led him. Deuteronomy 8:2; Isaiah 51:1.

1. In their redemption in Egypt. Exodus 12.

2. In their deliverance from Egypt. Exodus 14:31.

3. In their preservation through the wilderness. Exodus 16-19.

4. In their provision in Canaan. Cp. Isaiah 51:1, etc. Over the past the believer can write: “Ebenezer” Hitherto hath the Lord helped us. Over the present he can write: “Jehova Jireh,” the Lord will provide. Over the future, all unknown, he can write, “Jehova Shammah”—the Lord is there.

Lesson 77: The Choice Of A King
1 Samuel 8-10
Golden Text: Proverbs 1:30, SI

I. The Apostasy of Israel. 8:1-22.

1. Their demand for a King. Vs. 1-5. How soon they had departed in heart from God again. They had to learn the same lesson over and over again.

2. God’s message to Samuel. Vs. 6-9. Their demand involved the rejection of God’s rule. They preferred monarchy to theocracy. Cp. Hebrews 3:12; Philippians 2:21. How soon they forgot the lessons of the past!

3. The description of their King. Vs. 10-18. See how this was fulfilled in the case of Saul (1 Samuel 15:52), and Solomon (1 Kings 12:4).

4. The reasons for their choice. Vs. 19-22. What fearful folly! (1) Conformity to the world. V. 20. “Like nations.” Cp. Deuteronomy 14:2; 26:16-19; Exodus 19:5; Deuteronomy 7:6-8; Romans 12:1, 2; 1 John 2:15-17; James 4:4, etc. (2) Desire for human wisdom. “Judge us.” Cp. 1 Corinthians 1: 19-21; Proverbs 1:7; 2:6; 2:13; Colossians 2:3; 1 Corinthians 1:30, 31; Luke 7:30. (3) Desire for human leadership. V. 20. Preferred man to God! Cp. Deuteronomy 8:10-19; Matthew 27:21, 22. See Hosea 13:10, 11.

II. The Choice of Saul. C. 9.

1. His description. Vs. 1-10, 21. (1) Comely. V. 2. (2) Obedient. Vs. 3, 4. (3) Thoughtful. V. 5. (4) Generous. Vs. 6, 7. (5) Humble. V. 21; Cp. 1 Samuel 15:17.

2. God’s message to Samuel. Vs. 15-17. God knew both Samuel and Saul and so arranged it that both should be brought together. When the complete history of a soul’s conversion comes to be written, it will be seen that the many “accidents” and “coincidents” were all part of God’s predestined plan for the salvation of the soul. “Thou shalt remember all the way the Lord thy God led thee.” Deuteronomy 8:2-5.

3. Samuel’s message to Saul. Vs. 18-27.

III. The Anointing. 10:1-16.

1. Separation. 9:27—10:1. There is a wealth of spiritual meaning in V. 27. “Stand still a while that I may shew thee the word of God.” In a restless world with its whirl, confusion and din, it is difficult to stand still and be alone with God. But we must “stand still” if we are to

(1) See God’s salvation. Exodus 14:13.

(2) Hear God’s message. 1 Samuel 9:27.

(3) Learn of God’s dealings. 1 Samuel 12:7.

2. Promise. Vs. 2-8. As to his (1) Business. V. 2. (2) Bodily needs. V. 3. Cp. Philippians 4:19; Matthew 6:33. (3) Spiritual fitness, vs. 5, 6, for the work ahead.

3. Fulfillment. Vs. 9-16.

IV. The Proclamation. Vs. 17-27.

1. The warning. Vs. 17-19. They went into it open-eyed

2. The Proclamation. Vs. 20-24. “Hidden among the stuff.” How many have sought to avoid the call of God for service by hiding behind “the stuff” of fleshly ease, business, ambition, love of pleasure, and love of money, etc.

3. The loyal band. Vs. 25, 26.

4. The despising people. V. 27. A blind eye and deaf ear are often necessary to the servant of God.

Lesson 78: The Rejection Of Saul
1 Samuel 12:1-25, 13:1-14, 14:44, 15:1-28
Golden Text: 1 Samuel 15:22

1. Samuel’s Testimony. C. 12.

1. As to his own integrity. Vs. 1-5. A blameless life. Cp. 1 Thess 2:1-10; Philippians 2:14-18; 2 Timothy 4: 6-8.

2. As to God’s righteous acts. Vs. 6-15. As seen in His dealings with the children of Israel.

3. As to their sin. Vs. 16-19. The divine sign of His righteous wrath. Cp. Romans 1:18.

4. As to their future conduct. Vs. 20-25. (1) Exhortation. Vs. 20.21. (2) Revelation. V. 22. Cp. Mal. 3:6; Ephesians 1:4-6, 11, 12. (3) Intercession. V. 23. Cp. Ephesians 1:15, 16; 3:14; 6:18; 1 Timothy 2:1-4. How many have been guilty of the sin of “ceasing to pray” for others. Intercession is a holy necessity as well as privilege. (4)Encouragement. V. 24. What had God done for them? Psalms 126:3, 66:16. Name some of the spiritual blessings that God has bestowed on those who have trusted His Son. Ephesians 1:3-13. (5) Warning. V. 25.

II. Saul’s Failures. C. 13-15.

1. The forced sacrifice. 13:14-18. (1) Israel’s condition. Vs. 5-7. “Trembling.” (2) Saul’s test. V. 8. God was testing the reality of his faith, love and obedience. Cp. 1 Corinthians 10:13. (3) The King’s failure. Vs. 9 12. He had no right to intrude into the priest’s office. God doesn’t want “forced” worship. V. 12. Cp. John 4:24. Note also his lack of humility and his self justifying spirit. (4) Samuel’s rebuke and announcement of his rejection. Vs. 13, 14. (5) Jonathan’s brave act, C. 14, and God’s intervention.

2. Zeal without knowledge. 14:19-46. The foolish adjuration, V. 4, that almost cost him his son. Compare the legalistic teachers of today whose message is summed up by prohibitions as “touch not, taste not, handle not, which are all to perish with the using” Colossians 2:20-23. Saul wished to impose his authority on Israel to bolster up his self respect.

3. Sacrifice without obedience. C. 15. (1) The commission. Vs. 1-3. Cp. Exodus 17:8-14; Numbers 24:20; Deuteronomy 25:17-19. Amalek a type of the flesh to be put to death unmercifully. Cp. Galatians 5:17; Romans 13:14; Ephesians 4:22; Colossians 3:5; Romans 6:10, etc. (2) The partial obedience. Vs. 4-9. This was really rank disobedience. (3) God’s message to Samuel, Vs. 10-12, and its effect on Samuel. (4) The rejection of Saul. Vs. 13-33. (a) The bleating of incomplete consecration. Cp. Acts 5:2. Note Saul’s lie. V. 13. (b) His self-justification. Vs. 15, 20, 21. (c) The consequence. Vs. 16rl9. He had proved himself unfitted for his position and was to be set aside. Cp. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. (d) The tragedy of disobedience. Vs. 22, 23. What is better than sacrifice? Matthew 7:24-29; John 2:5. Have you obeyed the gospel? Romans 6:17. His commands? Mark 16:15; Acts 8:36; 1 Corinthians 11:25; John 15:17; John 13:17

Lesson 79: The Anointing Of David
1 Samuel 16:1-23
Golden Text: 1 Samuel 16:7

I. The Commission. Vs. 1-3.

1. Samuel’s grief for Saul. V. 1. Cp. Romans 9:1-5. Cp. 1 Samuel 15:29; Numbers 23:19.

2. The new commission. Vs. 1-3. Cp. 1 Samuel 13:14. The man after God’s own heart. That is to say, in spite of periods of departure from God, the tenor of David’s life was for God.

II. The Examination. Vs. 4-10.

1. The False Conclusion. V. 6. A perfectly-natural one. Genesis 49:3. The firstborn. Appearance and actuality are often far apart. We may know how people look but only God can tell what they really are.

2. The Divine response. V. 7. Study this carefully. (1) The divine injunction “look not.” (2) The divine distinction “not as man seeth.” (3) The divine valuation “the heart.” Cp. John 7:24; Matthew 23:28; Luke 18:9; Isaiah 55:8; 2 Corinthians 10:7, 12; Duke 16:15; 2 Chronicles 16:9.

3. The vain search. Vs. 8-10.

III. The Choice. Vs. 11-13.

1. His occupation. V. 11. The shepherd. Cp. 2 Samuel 7:8; Psalm 23:1. David a type of Christ, the Good Shepherd; Duke 15:3-7; John 10:1-18. 27-30; Hebrews 13:20; Matthew 9:36; 1 Peter 2:25.

2. His description. V. 12.

3. His anointing. V. 13. Cp. Hebrews 1:8, 9. Note David was anointed in the midst of his brethren. Christ “the anointed One.” (1) In eternity; Proverbs 8:23; “set up,” = “anointed.” (2) At baptism; Matthew 3:17. (3) For ministry; Acts 10:38. (4) At resurrection; Acts 2:36.

4. His enduement. “The Spirit of the Lord.” V. 13. Zechariah 4:6. In the Old Testament the Spirit came upon certain individuals for a particular purpose and did not permanently rest upon them. In the New Testament the Spirit indwells each believer upon his acceptance of Christ and seals him until the day of redemption. Ephesians 4:30.

IV. The Service. Vs. 14-23.

1. Saul’s sad state. Vs. 14-17. Doubtless a judgment upon him, resulting in morbid depression, jealousy, and a revengeful spirit. Music would soothe him. Here is stark tragedy in a few words: “The Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul.” He is left to himself and the memory of his lost opportunities. How sad when God has to put a man on the shelf as of no further value to Him! Cp. 1 Corinthians 9: 24-27; 2 Peter 1:4-10.

2. David’s new occupation. Vs. 18-23. (1 )His character. V. 18. (a) Gifted, (b) Brave, (c) Prudent, (d) Beautiful, (e) Godly. Emphasize these points. (2) His occupation. Vs. 19-23. This doubtless fitted him for the position he was afterward to occupy. Cp. Colossians 3: 23; Ephesians 6:5-7. God was training David for a larger task.

Lesson 80: David And Goliath
1 Samuel 17
Golden Text: Romans 8:31

I. The Impudent Challenge.

1. The enemy. Vs. 1-3. The same old foe.

2. The challenge. Vs. 4-10. “Give me a man.” What the world needs, though it knows it not, is men of God who will live for Christ and witness for Him before the world. He must be (1) Born of God, John 3:3; 1 John 5:1; (2) A man of God, 1 Timothy 6:11. (3) Sent by God, John 1:6. The inarticulate cry of the world is “Give us a man!”

3. The fear. V. 11. Their eyes were off God and dwelling on outward appearance. 16:17. (Ill. 2 Kings 6:15-17). Cp. Philippians 1:28; 1 Peter 3:14; Psalm 91:5

II. The Commission. Vs. 12-29.

1. His occupation. V. 15. Whether in the court of Saul or on the hills of Bethlehem David did his task well.

2. His commission. Vs. 17, 18. Sent to his brethren. Cp. Matthew 15:24.

3. His obedience. Vs 20-24.

4. His indignation. Vs. 25, 26. God’s honour were his uppermost thoughts.

5. His query. Vs. 28-31. “Is there not a cause?” What was “the cause” of Israel’s fear? See Leviticus 26:3-8. They had failed to walk in His statues.

III. His Confidence. Vs .32-37.

1. His bold avowal. V. 32.

2. His preparation. Vs. 33-36. God had been fitting him for the task. What a type of Christ Who delivered us from the lion, a picture of Satan; and the bear, a picture of the world which hugs a man to death. Cp. 1 Peter 5:8; Hebrews 2:14, 15; Galatians 1:4; John 17:9.

3. His Attestation. V. 37. God given the glory.

IV. His Preparation. Vs. 38-44.

1. The unproved armour. Vs. 38, 39. (1) Of worldly-wise advice. Cp. 1 Corinthians 1:19-28. (2) Of human protection. Cp. Jeremiah 17:5; Psalm 52:7. (3)Of unproved weapons. Cp. Romans 12:1, 2. (4)Unripe experience.

2. The astounding choice. V. 40. God alone must have the glory.

3. The incredulous taunt. Vs. 41-44. The language of unbelief. Cp. John 9:10; Isaiah 53:1; Psalm 78:19, 20.

V. His Victory. Vs. 45-54.

1. His confident faith. Vs. 45-47. Here is a man who (1) Knew God by experience. Vs. 33-36. (2) Believed God. That He was able to give him victory. Cp. Ephesians 3:20; Psalm 62:11; Romans 8:31; 1 John 5:4, 4:4. (3) He dared for God like Moses, Daniel, Paul, etc. Cp. Daniel 11:32; 2 Corinthians 4:13; 1 Corinthians 15:58.

2. His wonderful victory. Vs. 48-54 Apply this in type to Christ Who death by dying slew.” Cp. Colossians 2:13-15; 1 Corinthians 15:37; Romans 8:37; 2 Corinthians 2:14; Hebrews 2:14.

Lesson 81: The Persecution Of David
1 Samuel 18-21
Golden Text: Matthew 5:11

I. The Covenant of Love. 18:1-4. A beautiful gospel illustration.

1. The union of love. V. 1. Remember what Jonathan had seen. (1) The terrible enemy; 17:10, 11. (2) The fear of the people; 17:24. (3) The man of God’s choice. V. 17:40. (4) The mighty victory. V. 51. Apply this to Christ, “great David’s greater Son.” Hebrews 10:5-14, etc. Can you say 1 John 4:19? 1 Corinthians 16:22; Galatians 2:20; 1 Peter 1:8, etc.

2. The covenant of love. V. 3. Cp. S. of S. 2:16. Can we say this? Mine by (1) Donation; John 17:2, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 24. (2) Choice; Ephesians 1:4. (3) Purchase; Acts 20:28. (4) Adoption; Romans 8:15. (5) Decision; John 1:12. (6) Union; Ephesians 5:30. (7) Forever; John 10:28; Acts 27:23.

3. The sacrifice of love. V. 4. “Stripped,” all given to David. Have we thus treated Christ? Cp. Philippians 3:7, 8; Romans 12:1, 2; Revelation 5:12, 13; Philippians 1:21.

II. The Jealous King. Vs. 5-16.

1. David’s character. V. 5. Obedient, prudent, accepted before the people.

2. The king’s envy. Vs. 6-9. Cp. Proverbs 14:30; 27:4; Matthew 27:18; James 3:16.

3. The dastardly attempt. Vs. 10, 11.

4. The effect on Saul. Vs. 12-16.

III. The Persecution of David. C. 19-21. Persecution has been the lot of the true church through this age. John 15:18-27.

1. Jonathan’s intercession; 19:1-7.

2. Saul’s fresh attempt to kill David. Vs. 8-10.

3. David flees to Naioth. Vs. 11-24. (1) Michal’s strategy; 11-17. (2) God’s intervention. Vs. 18-24.

4. Jonathan the faithful friend; 20:1-42. (1) David’s complaint. Vs. 1-3. (2) The response. V. 4. (3) The plan. Vs. 5-23. Note verses 14, 15, 17. (4) The message. Vs. 24-42.

5. The flight to Gath. Cp. 21:1-15. (1)” The interview with Ahimelech; 1-9. David’s deceit. His eye was off God and his faith wavered. David looked at God in the light of his circumstances instead of his circumstances in the light of God’s promises to him. Here is the real distinction between a spiritual pessimist and an optimist! The Christian life is a life of faith. The believer must (a) Live by faith; Galatians 2:20. (b) Walk by faith; 2 Corinthians 4: 7. (c) Work by faith; 1 Thessalonians 1:3. (2) The flight to Gath, vs. 10-15, and his conduct there. How often we fall through our strongest point—he was now “David the fearful!” Cp. Moses: Numbers 12:3, 20:10. Abraham; Genesis 12:10-13. Peter; Mark 14:66-72.

Lesson 82: David The Rejected King
1 Samuel 22-25
Golden Text: Psalm 18:2

I. The Cave of Adullam; 22:1, 2. A fine gospel illustration “David’s D. D’s.”

1. What they were. (1) Distressed, in desperate need. How true of the sinner. In distress of (a) Mind; Ephesians 4:18. 111. Luke 8:26-35. (b) Soul; Luke 7:37, 38. (c) Circumstances; 111. Luke 8:23, 24. (2) Debtors—what the sinner owes God. (a) A life of obedience to His law. (b) Of reverence to His name, (c) Of allegiance to His Son. (d) Of service to His priory. All this we have failed to give. 111. Luke 7:41, 42. (3) Discontented. They were discontented with their (a) position; (b) person; (c) prospect. Are you?

2. What they did. Went down to David. The anointed, the deliverer, the rejected and despised man of God’s choice. They went “down and out” to David. Here is humiliation, identification, and separation, the three essentials of a true conversion.

3. What they became. They emerged from the cave an entirely new set of “D. D’s.” (1) The Distressed were delivered; Psalms 107:6; 116:8. (2) The debtors were discharged; Acts 13:38; 1 John 2:12: 1 Corinthians 6:11. (3) The discontented were delighted; Psalm 16:3; Nehemiah 9:25; 1 Samuel 19:2. (4) They all shared David’s glory when he was exalted. Cp. 2 Corinthians 4:17; Matthew 10:38. 39; Mark 10:28-31; 2 Timothy 2:11-13.

II. The Massacre of the Priests; 22:6-23. Saul’s fearful revenge. Note David’s word to Abiathar. V. 23. Invitation, encouragement, promise, security.

III. The Victory at Keilah; 23:1-7. Note David’s expression of dependence upon the Lord. “He enquired of the Lord.” Cp. Psalm 27:4; Philippians 4:6-8.

IV. Saul’s Pursuit; 23:8—24:22.

1. God’s protection of David. Vs. 9-14. Cp. Psalms 46:1; 18:1, 2. Is God your refuge?

2. The covenant renewed. Vs. 15-18. Note v. 17. This makes Saul’s sin all the more grievous. He sinned against light.

3. Saul’s insistent search. Vs. 19-29. Cp. Psalm 142.

4. David’s magnanimity; 24:1-22. Cp. Romans 12:19-21. The man of God can afford to wait God’s time for his vindication.

V. The Wisdom of Abigail. C. 25.

1. Samuel’s death. V. 1. The end of a great life lived for God Psalm 116:15.

2. Nabal’s folly. Vs. 2-13.

3. Abigail’s intervention. Vs. 14-31.

4. David’s thanksgiving. Vs. 32-36.

5. Nabal’s death. Vs. 37, 38.

6. Abigail’s betrothal. Vs. 39-42.

Lesson 83: Saul’s Downfall And Death
1 Samuel 26-31
Golden Text: Hebrews 12:14

I. David’s Further Forbearance. C. 26.

1. Saul’s promise broken. Vs. 1-4. Cp. 24:19; 19:20. Saul persistently pursued the downward path knowing all the while that he was going contrary to the revealed will of God. His heart became “hardened through the deceitfulness of sin” Hebrews 3:13.

2. David’s reconnoitre. V. 5.

3. The sparing of Saul. Vs. 6-12. Note Vs. 9-10 David was content to leave his case in good hands Cp. Heb 10:30, 31; Romans 12:19-21.

4. The revelation. Vs. 13-20.

5. Saul’s confession. V. 21. “I have played the fool” Is it yours? God’s definition of a fool—One who (1) Despises instruction; Proverbs 1: 7; 1 Timothy 6:3, 4. (2) Denies God; Psalm 53:1. (3) Mocks at sin; Proverbs 14:9. (4) Talks foolishly; Proverbs 19:1. (5) Does not prepare; Luke 12:20; Proverbs 22:3. (6) Hears and does not; Matthew 7:24-29. Now read 1 Corinthians 3:18, 19.

II. Saul’s Fearful Sin. C. 28.

1. A silent heaven. Vs. 3-6. The penalty of sin; Habakkuk 1:13; Psalm 39:11; 1 Corinthians 14:38; Psalm 104:29.

2. A terrible deed. Vs. 7-25. Saul tried to get through hell what only can come from heaven. (1) Spiritism is no new thing, (a) There are unseen evil spirits; Ephesians 6:12; 1 Timothy 4:1-3. (b) These evil spirits can communicate with man; Leviticus 19:31; 20:6. (c) They can possess man; Matthew 17:18; Acts 16:16-19; Mark 5:1-20; Matthew 8:28. (d) Intercourse with evil spirits strictly forbidden of God; Deuteronomy 18:9-14: Leviticus 19:31; 20:6; 1 Corinthians 10:20, 21; Isaiah 8:19; 2 Kings 21:1-6; 1 Chronicles 10: 13, 14. He who ventures into spiritism disobeys God’s explicit command. (2) The awful seance; Vs. 8-14. (3) The message of doom; Vs. 15-20. No doubt God intervened to give Saul the last message.

III. David’s Victory. C. 30.

1. The raiding Amalekites. Vs. 1-3.

2. David’s counsel—what a contrast to Saul! Vs. 4-10.

3. The pursuit and victory. Vs. 11-20.

4. The equal division. Vs. 21-25. A most important decision. All work is alike great if done in the will of God. John 4:36. 1 Corinthians 3:5-9. The Lord’s work is one work, and all kinds of workmen are required and essential to the whole. The lowly worker is often lost sight of in the blaze of publicity that surrounds the platform man: but the judgment seat of Christ will determine the true value of all service done for Him. Romans 14:7-12; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15; Revelation 22:12.

IV. Saul’s Sad End. C. 31.

1. Gilboa’s tragic scene. Vs. 1-3.

2. Saul the suicide. Vs. 4-6. What a sad end to a life that promised much at the outset. The only safe course is to “trust and obey.”

Lesson 84: David Made King
2 Samuel 1—5:3
Golden Text: Hebrews 1:3

I. The Lamentation. C. 1.

1. The false report and its consequence. Vs. 1-16.

2. The mourning- for the dead. Vs. 17-27. Note the tribute to Jonathan. Vs. 25-27.

II. The Warfare. C. 2:1—3:1.

1. David anointed king over Judah. Vs. 1-7.

2. Ishbosheth made king of Israel. Vs. 8-11.

3. The long war. Vs. 12-3:1. (1) The duel of the strong men. Vs. 12-16. (2) The battle and the pursuit and death of Asahel, Vs. 17-24. Note v. 30 “and Asahel.” (3) The truce. Vs. 25-31. Note v. 26 and cp. Galatians 5:15; 1 Corinthians 3:3, 4; 12:13-27; James 3:16.

4. The effect of the war; 3:1.

III. The Coronation; 3:12-5:3.

1. Abner’s ambassage; 3:12-21.

2. Abner’s death. Vs. 22-39. Note David’s query “Died Abner as a fool dieth?” Here is a good illustration of the gospel, for Abner died as a fool. (1) Abner knew the law of the avenger of blood; Deuteronomy 19:6. He had shed blood and therefore must expect vengeance. Cp. Ezekiel 18:4, 20; Romans 6:23. (2) He made no preparation for this vengeance. Have you? Cp. Proverbs 22:3; Psalm 2:12; Amos 4:12. Ill. Luke 12:15-20. (3) A city of refuge was close by, Hebron. See V. 27. Cp. Josh 20:7. All he had to do was run in. and he would have been safe. He was “almost saved.” Cp. Romans 10:8; Psalm 34:18; 145:18; Hebrews 6:18; John 10:9; Acts 13:38. Illus. Acts 26:28. (4) He was not bound—he was free. V. 34. Cp. Man’s free will. Whosoever will; Revelation 22:17. God doesn’t coerce. “Let him come,” etc. (5) Abner, therefore, died needlessly. Will you die as a fool? Luke 12:20. Note David’s lamentation for him. Vs. 33-39.

3. Ishbosheth’s death. C. 4. An inglorious end to a mere puppet King.

4. David made king over Israel. C. 5:1-3. Notice their reasons for making him king. Apply them to the King of Kings. Why make Christ King of your life? Because of His (1) relationship. V. 1. Cp. Christ incarnation; Hebrews 2:11. 14-18; 4:14, 15; Philippians 2:6-8; Galatians 4:4, 5. (2) Deliverance from the enemy. V. 2. Christ has defeated Satan and put away sin. John 1:29. Cp. Colossians 2:13-15; 1 Samuel 17:46. (3) Guidance. V. 20; Psalm 23:1; John 10:27; 8:12; etc. (4) Provision. V. 2. “Feed.” Cp. John 6:35, etc. (5) Authority. “The Lord hath said,” V. 2. Cp. Matthew 3:17; 17:5; Acts 10:38; 17:30, 31. (6) Covenant, v. 3. Cp. Isaiah 55:3; Luke 22:20; Hebrews 9:15. Is Christ your Savior and the enthroned Lord of your heart? Romans 10:9-10.

Lesson 85: The Ark Brought To Zion
2 Samuel 5:4-6:23
Golden Text: Proverbs 10:22

I. David’s Progress; 5:4-12.

1. “Going and growing” (marg.). V. 10. Here are two essentials for the Christian’s spiritual progress (a) “going.” Cp. 1 Corinthians 15:58; Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19; 21:28; 1 Timothy 6:11, 12. (b) “growing.” Cp. “grace”; 2 Peter 3:18; “Knowledge.” 2 Peter 3:18. “Faith,” 2 Thessalonians 1:3; “love,” 2 Thessalonians 1:3; Ephesians 4:15; 2 Peter l: 5-8.

2. The capture of Zion. Vs. 6-9.

3. The defeat of the enemy. Vs. 17-25. (1) Guidance humbly asked. V. 19. (2) Obedience to God’s word. V. 19. (3) Fought in God’s Name. V. 20. This will always ensure victory.

II. The Breach of Uzzah; 6:1-8. God’s work must be done in God’s way. The word of the Lord must guide the work of the Lord.

1. David sought not God’s will. Cp. 5:19, 23.

2. He searched not in God’s word; see Num 4:14, 15; 7:9; 18:3.

3. He relied on his own way. “A new cart.” Cp. 1 Samuel 6:7. He copied the world. How true a picture of present day ecclesiasticism! “Modern methods” have superceded scriptural authority and confusion is the result. See Exodus 25:40; 26:30; Numbers 8:4, etc.

4. Disaster assuredly followed. Vs. 6, 7. Apply this to present day conditions as to the church, its origin, organism, ordinances and order.

III. The messing of Obed-Edom. Vs. 9-12. The ark, the symbol of God’s presence!

1. What the Presence of the Lord brings. (1) Conviction of sin; Isaiah 6:1-5. (2) Salvation; Acts 3:19. (3) Rest; Exodus 33:14. (4) Joy Psalm 16:11. (5) Confidence; Ex. 33:15. (6) Protection; Psalm 31:20. (7) Glory, honour, strength and gladness; 1 Chronicles 16:27.

2. What the absence of the Lord brings. (1) No peace; Isaiah 57:20. 21; John 6:17, 18. C2) No hope; E-ph. 2:11, 12. (3) No life; 1 John 5:12. (4) No excuse; Romans 1:20. (5) No Christ; Romans 8:9; Ephesians 2:12. (6) No escape; Hebrews 2:3.

3. The blessing of Obed-Edom—Is it yours? Is He in your heart, home, business? Matthew 6: 33; Proverbs 10:22.

IV. The Bringing- of the Ark. Vs. 12-23.

1. The scriptural method followed. Vs. 12, 13.

2. Based on sacrifice. Vs. 13, 17. God given the rightful place of preeminence and authority.

3. The resultant joy. Vs. 14-19.

4. The worldly-wise criticizer. Vs. 20-23. They will always be present. Cp. Luke 15:2. The Christian’s business in life is to please God and, as he does so, he is bound to displease some. See Paul’s ambition; Galatians 1:10. She paid the price in barrenness.

Lesson 86: God’s Promise To David
2 Samuel 7
Golden Text: Luke 24:44

I. David’s Desire. Vs. 1-3. A laudable one. To provide a place for the ark, symbol of God’s presence. Notice God’s dwelling places.

1. In Eden; Genesis 3:8; with man in innocency.

2. In the Tabernacle; Exodus 29:43-45.

3. In the Temple; 1 Kings 8:27; 9:3.

4. In the believer; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 2 Corinthians 6:16; John 14:23; Ephesians 2:18-22; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Ephesians 1:13.

5. In the eternal state; Revelation 21:3. Notice Isaiah 57:15. God has two thrones; one in the highest place of heaven, the other in the lowliest heart. May David’s desire be ours. Psalm 132:4, 5.

II. God’s Message to David. Vs. 4-16. One of the great Messianic prophecies of the Bible. Cp. Genesis 3:15; 12:1-3; Deuteronomy 18:15-18, etc.

1. The heavenly reminder. Vs. 5-11. Good to be reminded of what we were. Cp. Isaiah 51:1. Remember (1) the pit; Psalm 40:2; (2) the rock; Isaiah 51:1; (3) the darkness; Colossians 1:13; (4) the pollution; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; (5) the wrath; John 3:36; (6) death; John 5:24; (7) the slavery; Romans 6:17, etc.

2. The heavenly promise. V. 12. God would build David a house which should last forever. (1) The seed. V. 12. The Son of David and Son of God; Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 1:36. David’s Son and David’s Lord; Matthew 22:42-45. (2) The service. V. 13. “He shall build an house.” Cp. Hebrews 3:1-6. (a) The foundation; 1 Corinthians 3:11. (b) The superstructure; Ephesians 2: 19-22; 1:22. 23; 1 Timothy 3:15; Hebrews 10:21. (c) The purpose; 2 Corinthians 6:16. (d) The consummation; Ephesians 5:25-27. (3) The suffering. V. 14. Clark’s Trans. “When iniquity is laid upon him, 1 will chasten,” etc. Cp. Isaiah 53:5, 6, etc. (4) The sequel. Vs. 16. An everlasting kingdom. Christ will yet reign. Cp. Isaiah 2:3, 4; 9:6, 7: Psalm 2:1-12; Isaiah 11:1-12, etc.

III. David’s Response. Vs. 18-29. David sat in the presence of the Lord. Three results will always follow when the believer gets into the presence of God. David got

1. Right thoughts about himself. Vs. 18, 19. “Who am I?” Cp. Isaiah’s confession; Isaiah 6, etc. Cp. Ephesians 4:8; 1 Corinthians 15:9; 1 Timothy 1:15; Galatians 6:3.

2. Right thoughts about God. V. 22. Cp. Isaiah 57:15; 40:18-28; Romans 11:33.

3. Right thoughts about God’s people. Vs. 23-29. Chosen, redeemed, delivered, brought in and covenanted. Cp. Ephesians 1:3-14; 1 Peter 1: 3-8; 2:9, etc.

Lesson 87: Mephibosheth
2 Samuel 9:1-13
Golden Text: Psalm 116:7, 8

Note the historical setting. Saul and Jonathan have been killed. David is seated upon the throne and his memory recalls the friendship of Jonathan from the first meeting until the last. The result of his reminiscence is this beautiful incident full of Gospel truth.

I. His Name. V. 6. Marg. (1) Mephibosheth, “out of my mouth proceeds reproach.” (2) Meribbaal, “rebellion.” Thus his name reveals the state of all by nature. Reproach because of sin. Cp. Proverbs 14:34; Romans 3:10-19, etc. Rebels; Colossians 1:21; Ephesians 2:12; Romans 8:7, 8.

II. His Condition. V. 3. “Lame on both feet.” Couldn’t walk straight. Note why; 2 Samuel 4:9. He fell through another’s fault. Cp. Romans 5:19; Ephesians 2:1-3; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:12. Here Scripture clearly teaches man’s deformity and inability to walk in a straight path.

III. His Position. V. 5. Lo-debar, “the place of no pasture,” a true type of the world. Plenty of pleasure, power, popularity, pomp and treasure but no pasture. Nothing to satisfy. Cp. John 4:13; Ecclesiastes 1:2-18. “Afar off.” Isaiah 59:1, 2; Ephesians 2:13.

IV. His Remembrancer, David. V. 3. Mephibosheth may well have been afraid of vengeance but no! Cp. Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 103:10, 11; Isaiah 55:8; John 3:16; Romans 5:7, 8, etc. Note why, “Jonathan’s sake.” Cp. Ephesians 4:32.

V. His Invitation. V. 5. “The king sent.” Cp. Matthew 11:28; John 10:10; 2 Corinthians 5:19; Luke 14:21-23; Mark 16:15; Revelation 22:17. It was not Mephibosheth’s prayers that finally gained David’s ears and heart. He did not “pray through” to David. It was purely grace on the part of David.

VI. His Reception. Vs. 6-9.

1. His attitude. V. 6. “On face.” The place of humility, need and blessing.

2. His confession. V. 8. “Servant,” “dead-dog,” his D. D. degree!

3. His comfort. V. 7. “Fear not.” Cp. God’s “fear nots;” Genesis 15:1; 21:17; 26:24; 46.3; Numbers 21:34; Joshua 8:1; Judges 6:23; Isaiah 43:1; Matthew 10:26-28; 14:27; 1 John 4:18; Hebrews 8:5, 6, etc.

VII. His Provision. Vs. 7-13.

1. An Inheritance. V. 7. Cp. Ephesians 1:11; Romans 8:17; Colossians 1:12; 1 Peter 1:5.

2. Sonship. V. 11. Cp. John 1:12; Galatians 4:6; Romans 8:14, 15; Psalm 113:5-8. “As one of the King’s sons.” 1 John 3:1, 2.

3. Provision. “King’s Table.” Ephesians 1:3; Philippians 4:19; Psalm 81:16, etc. What has God provided for His own? All they need for time and eternity. Romans 8:32.

4. Position, “at table;” his lameness not seen. 1 John 4:19, Ephesians 1:4; Colossians 3:3.

5. Devotion to David; 2 Samuel 19:24. Shared his rejection as well as his glory.

Lesson 88: David’s Sin And Restoration
2 Samuel 11, 12; Psalms 51:1-17; 32:1-5
Golden Text: 1 John 1:9

I. The Crime. C. 11:1-27.

1. Carelessness. Vs. 1, 2. Satan still has work for idle hands to do.

2. Covetousness. Vs. 3-5. Exodus 20:7; Habakkuk 2:9; Mark 7:22; Luke 12:15; Hebrews 13:5.

3. Callousness. Vs. 6-27. One sin leads to another in a vain attempt to cover it. How different is God’s word from men’s biographies where all the good deeds and none of the bad are recorded!

II. The Concealment. Psalm 32:3.

1. David was silent to (1) self, (2) man, (3) God.

2. Sin always tries to conceal itself. Ill. Adam, Genesis 3; Achan, Joshua 7. It loves the dark: John 3:19-21. Cp. Proverbs 28:13.

3. Motives for David’s silence; (1) Pride; (2) Shame; (3) Fear.

III. The Chastisement; Psalm 32:3, 4. Note.

1. The nature of it. (1) Physical “bones.” (2) Mental “groaning.” The conscience lashing him. (3) Spiritual “dried up.” A dried up testimony, service, worship. Truly a valley of dry bones. Ezekiel 37.

2. The source of it. Divine. “Thy hand.” Cp. Hebrews 12:5-11.

3. The character of it. Incessant. “By day in his thoughts, by night in his dreams.”

4. The purpose. To bring repentance, confession, self-judgment and cleansing.

IV. The Convictions 2 Samuel 12. Conviction means “to satisfy by evidence.” God produced, within the soul of David, this conviction which deepened until it became Intolerable.

V. The Confession. V. 13. Psalm 51:1-13.

1. The parable. Vs. 1-6.

2. The application. Vs. 7-12. Nathan’s boldness. Cp. Isaiah 58:1; Ezekiel 2:6. Nathan left David in no doubt as to his fearful sin. Psalm 32:5. Study this carefully. If his sin was great, then his confession was equally great. Note his merciless self-judgment; Psalms 32:5; 51:1-4.

3. His desire for cleansing and forgiveness; Psalm 51:7.

4. His appeal for restoration; Psalm 51:8, 12.

5. His plea for further use to God’s glory; Psalm 51:13.

VI. The Cleansing; 2 Samuel 12:13. Cp. 1 John 1:9; 2:1; Hebrews 7:25. No wonder David could sing of the joy of this forgiveness.

VII. The Consequences. Vs. 14-23.

1. On the world. V. 14. How true is this even in the present day. Every infidel uses David as an argument against Christianity.

2. On his family. Vs. 15-23. David lost four sons after this.

3. On himself. He sowed seed that brought a bitter harvest; Galatians 6:7, 8. This is a divine principle that has never been abrogated.

Lesson 89: Absalom's Rebellion And Death
2 Samuel 14-19:15
Golden Text: Luke 14:11

I. The Strategem of Joab. C. 14:1-33.

1. The circumstances leading to it; 13:23-39. Truly a black chapter.

2. The woman’s plea. Vs. 1-20 on Absalom’s behalf. Note particularly vs. 14—A fine gospel message. Note (1) A universal realization “die.” Cp. Hebrews 9:27. (2) A humble confession “water.” Water is the symbol of utter weakness, instability—truly a graphic picture of humanity. (3) A true statement “respect;” Romans 2:1; 3:10-19. (4) A devised plan “devise.” Cp. The great plan of salvation. God thought it out, the Son of God wrought it upon the Cross and the Holy Spirit applies its benefits to the believer. (5) A God honoring result. “Be not expelled.” God not willing for any to perish but that all should come to Him. See Ezekiel 18:21-23; 33:11. Cp. Matthew 25:46. “These shall go away,” i.e. expelled.

3. The result. Vs. 21-28. Note v. 28. Is this true of us? Cp. S. S. 2:14; Hebrews 4:14, 15; 10:19-22. Doubtless in this period of two years of estrangement the seeds of his rebellion ripened. David had not been treated thus by God. See Ephesians 4:32.

II. Absalom’s Rebellion; 15:1-17:29.

1. The treachery; vs. 2-6. The snake in the grass. Note his vanity; 2 Samuel 14:25, 18:18. Cp. Psalm 41:9 and Matthew 26:14, 15.

2. The plan. Vs. 7-12.

3. The flight. Vs. 13-16, 24. (1) The escape from Jerusalem. Vs. 13-18. (2) Ittai the loyal. Vs. 19-23. (3) David’s resignation to the will of God. Vs. 24-30. Cp. Psalm 3. (a) Trial. Vs. 1, 2. (b) Trust. Vs. 3-7. (c) Triumph. V. 8. This did not prevent him from planning. (4) The plan 15:31-37 (5) Ziba’s deception; 16:1-4. (6) The cursing of Shimei. Vs. 5-14. Note David’s reply. Vs. 11-12.

4. The defeated counsel; 17:1-14. Cp. 1 Corinthians 1: 27-28

5. The news to David; 17:15-22.

6. The suicide of Ahithophel. Vs. 23-24.

7. David’s loyal band. Vs. 27-29.

III. Absalom’s Defeat and Death; 18:1-33.

1. The battle. Vs. 1-8.

2. The death of Absalom. Vs. 9-18.

3. The tidings. Vs. 19-32. Note v. 22. The man without a message. Cp. Romans 10:15.

4. The Lamentation. Vs. 33-19:4. See David’s three laments—for Jonathan, Abner and Absalom. There is much of spiritual meaning in these laments.

5. The return of the King; 19:5-15. (1) Joab’s expostulation. V. 7. (2) The return of David. Vs. 8-15. Note v. 10. Cp. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 22:20.

Lesson 90: David’s Song And Last Words
2 Samuel 22-24
Golden Text: 2 Samuel 23:31

I. David’s Song. C. 22.

1. His testimony; 1-4. Note the circumstances under which it came to be written. V. 1. Song is the spontaneous outburst of a soul under the sense of Divine deliverance. What was true of David physically is true of each believer spiritually. Notice his great conception of God as seen in the many titles he gives to Him, and the personal pronouns “I, me, my.” Cp. Galatians 2:20; 2 Timothy 1:12; 1 Corinthians 15:10.

2. His fearful condition. Vs. 5-7. How descriptive of the sinner. (1) Compassed by death. V. 5. The wages of sin; Romans 6:23; Hebrews 9:27, etc. (2) Cords of hell. Bound by sin; Proverbs 5:22. (3) In distress. V 7 Cp. Psalm 107:5, 6, 13, 17, 19, 28.

3. His wonderful deliverance. Vs. 8-28. (1) Sought. V. 17; Luke 19:10. (2) Saved. V. 17; Titus 3:4-5. (3) Delivered. V. 18; Colossians 1:13 (4) Placed. V. 20; Ephesians 2:6.

4. His joyful testimony. Vs. 29-51. Study this carefully.

5. Its Messianic character; see Psalm 18:2, 49. Cp. Hebrews 2:13; Romans 15:9; 1 Peter 1:11.

II. His Last Words; 23:1-5.

1. Divine inspiration. V. 2. Cp. 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:19-21.

2. David’s aspiration. Vs. 3-5. The Messiah was all his desire. Is He ours? Cp. Philippians 1:20-21; Psalm 37:4.

III. The Mighty Men; 23:8-39.

1. The first three; vs. 8-17. (1) Adino; he knew how to defend. V. 8. Cp. Philippians 1:17. (2) Eleazer—he knew how to defy. Vs. 9, 10. Ephesians 6:11. (3) Shammah—he knew how to guard. Vs. 11, 12. Cp. 2 Timothy 1:14. (4) Their loyalty and bravery illustrated. Vs. 13-17. Are we prepared to do, defy and defend for our Lord, Master and King? Cp. Acts 20:24. These men counted not their lives dear unto them that they might bring to David that which should satisfy his desire. Surely this should be the ambition of every “good soldier of Jesus Christ.” He wants our appreciation, worship, loyal devotion and sacrificial service. Are we giving it to Him?

2. The second two. Vs. 18-23. These men all shared the rejection of David before they participated in his glory. David’s “well done” was enough compensation. Cp. Matthew 25:23; Luke 24:26; 2 Timothy 2:11-13.

3. The rest. Vs. 24-39.

IV. The Numbering of the People. C. 24. Cp. 1 Chronicles 21.

1. The instigator. Satan; 1 Chronicles 21:1. The Adversary. Cp. Job 1, 2; Zechariah 3:1, 2.

2. The error. Cp. Exodus 30:12-16. Again the word of God is neglected and God not given His place. Atonement was thus ignored.

3. The result. Vs. 10-25. (1) God’s judgment and choice of chastisement. Vs. 11-13. (2) David’s confession and decision. Vs. 10, 14. (3) The pestilence; Vs 15-16. (4) The plague stayed. V. 16. (5) The Altar erected. Vs. 18-25. This threshing floor was afterwards the site of Solomon’s temple. Cp 1 Chronicles 21:28-22:5.

Lesson 91: The Shepherd Psalm
Psalm 23
Golden Text: John 10:11

A selection of four of David’s psalms follow which should make a fitting conclusion to the study of his life.

I. The Position It Occupies. Between Psalm 22 and Psalm 24. This is no chance arrangement; 2 Timothy 3:16.

1. Psalm 22 is the psalm of the Cross, Grace, Sword, Provision, Substitute, Good Shepherd, Crucifixion, Christ Yesterday.

2. Psalm 23 is the psalm of the Crook, Guidance, Staff, Protection. Shepherd, Great Shepherd, Consolation, Christ Today.

3. Psalm 24 is the psalm of the Crown, Glory, Sceptre, Prospect, Sovereign, Chief Shepherd, Coronation, Christ Forever.

II. The Person It Unfolds. No doubt the Lord Jesus Christ. His Name is revealed in the O. T. by several compound names all of which are seen in Psalm 23.

1. Jehova Rara. V. 1. “The Lord my Shepherd.” (1) His necessity; Isaiah 53:6; Psalm 119:176; Luke 15:4. (2) His work; John 10:10, 11, 15; Luke 19:10; 1 Peter 2:24, 25; John 10:27-30.

2. Jehova Jireh, “The Lord will provide.” V. 1. “Not want;” Genesis 22:14. See what He has provided: Salvation, Word, Heaven. Cp. Matthew 6:33; Philippians 4:19, etc.

3. Jehovah Shalom. V. 2. “The Lord send peace;” Judges 6:24. (1) Peace needed; Romans 8:7, 8; Isaiah 57:20, 21. (2) Purchased; Colossians 1:20; Ephesians 2: 17. (3) Preached; Eph 2:17. (4) Possessed; Romans 5:1; Philippians 4:9; John 14:27.

4. Jehovah Rapha. V. 3. “The Lord that healeth;” Exodus 15:26. (1) Our need; Isaiah 1:5, 6; Matthew 9:13. (2) His supply; Psalm 41:4; Isaiah 53:5; Jeremiah 3:22; Psalm 51; Hosea 6:4; 14:4.

5. Jehova Tsidkenu. V. 3. “The Lord our Righteousness;” Jeremiah 23:6. Cp. Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3: JO. This righteousness is imported from heaven; Romans 3:21. Imputed; Romans 4:24. Imparted; Romans 3:22. Manifested; Romans 8:4.

6. Jehova Shammah. V. 4. “The Lord is there.” Ezekiel 48:35. Cp. Psalm 139; Hebrews 13:5.

7. Jehova Nissi. Vs. 5, 6. “The Lord our Banner ;” Exodus 17:5. Cp. Truth; Psalm 60:4; Love; S. of S. 2:4; Victory; Exodus 17:5.

III. The Provision It Reveals; “I shall not want.”

1. Rest; S. of S. 2:4-6.

2. Drink; Isaiah 55:1, 2.

3. Forgiveness; v. 3; 1 John 1:9; 2:1.

4. Guidance; v. 3. Cp. John 10:4-5.

5. Companionship; v. 4; Hebrews 13:5.

6. Comfort; v. 4: 2 Corinthians 1:3-5.

7. Food; v. 5; Matthew 6:11.

8. Joy: Psalm 45:7; 1 John 1:4.

9. Anything; Psalm 84:11.

IV. The Prospect It Unveils; “The House of the Lord.” Cp. John 14:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 21:1-22:5.

Lesson 92: The Secret Of True Blessedness
Psalm 1
Golden Text: Psalm 1:1

I. The Blessednesses of the Righteous. Vs. 1-3.

1. His blessednesses described. “O, the blessednesses!” The word is in the plural for the Christians’ blessings are multitudinous. Cp. Ephesians 1:3. Note the “blessed man” in the Psalms. (1) Forgiven; Psalm 32:1. Cp. Acts 13:38; 1 John 1:7; Luke 5:20. (2) Satisfied; Psalm 65:4; 36:8; 107:9; John 6:67-69. (3) Disciplined; Psalm 94:12; Hebrews 12:5. (4) Fearing; Psalm 128:1; Proverbs 1:7; Job 28:28. (5) Obedient; Psalm 119:2; 1 Samuel 15:22; 1 Peter 1:14. (6) Abiding; Psalm 84:4; John 15:1-7; Luke 24:29. (7) Trusting; Psalm 34:8; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Galatians 2:20.

2. His character unfolded; vs. 1, 2. (1) Negatively, v. 1. He is known by what he doesn’t do. (a) He walks not in counsel of ungodly. Cp. The “walk” of the Christian; Ephesians 1:12; Galatians 5:16; Romans 6:4; Romans 12:15; Ephesians 5:2; 5:7; Colossians 2:6; John 8:12; Colossians 4:5; 1 John 5:16; 2 Corinthians 6:16. Cp. Enoch; Genesis 5:24 or Peter; Matthew 26:58. God’s question, Amos 3:3. (b) He stands not. No identification with the world. Cp. 1 John 2:15, 16. (c) He sits not. No fellowship with the ungodly; 2 Corinthians 6:14-16; 2 Chronicles 19:2; Titus 2:12. (2) Positively; V 2. (a) Delights in the Word. Cp. Psalm 119:24. Finds it a joy. Cp. other delights: His protection, S. of S. 2:3; Obedience, Psalm 40:8; Provision, Isaiah 55:2. (b) Meditates in it. Cp. Psalm 119:11; Philippians 4:8; Psalm 39:3. (c) Continues in it. The proof of discipleship is continuance; John 8:31; 15:9; Acts 2:42.

3. His testimony illustrated. V. 3. By a tree. Cp. John 15. By a vine or its branches. The true Christian is a tree. (1) Planted. Cp. Isaiah 61:3; Psalm 92:13; Matthew 15:13. (2) Watered. Cp. Jeremiah 17:8; John 7:37-39; 4:14. (3) Fruitful. Cp. John 15:4, 5; Galatians 5:22; Philippians 1:11; Romans 6:22; Hebrews 13:15; Colossians 1:10; Romans 1:13; Philippians 4:17; Romans 7:4. (4) Evergreen. Cp. Palm tree; Psalm 92:12. Refreshing to the weary pilgrim; Isaiah 50:4. (5) Prosperous. Here is true prosperity. Cp. Joshua 1:8; 3 John 2. What a beautiful picture is this of the Lord Jesus, the only One Who fully and completely fulfilled all this description; Hebrews 7:26.

II. The Condemnation of the Ungodly. Vs. 4-6.

1. Their description. V. 4. “Ungodly,” or without God—the true state of every unregenerate person. Cp. Ephesians 2:11, 12.

2. Their illustration. “Chaff” driven by the wind having no form or use. Cp .Romans 8:8; Ephesians 2:1. 2.

3. Their condemnation. V. 5. No standing before God. See 1 Samuel 6:20; Job 41:10; Nahum 1:6. Cp. Romans 8:1; 14:4; Galatians 5:1; Luke 21:36; Acts 4:10; Colossians 4:12, etc.

4. Their end—perish The two ways and the two ends. Cp. Matthew 7:13, 14; Deuteronomy 30:15-20.

Lesson 93: God’s Three Words
Psalm 19
Golden Text: Psalm 19:7

God has revealed Himself in a three fold way to man.

I. His Eternal Power and Godhead In Creation. Vs. 1-6.

1. The glorious revelation—The Heavens. (1) Their creation manifest God’s power; Psalm 33:6; 8:3; Romans 1:19, 20. (2) Its glory reveals God’s wisdom; Psalm 19:1. (3) Its order unfolds His goodness; Jeremiah 10:12. (4) Its dissolving reveals God’s righteousness; 2 Peter 3:10. (5) Its re-creation will reveal His glory; Revelation 21:1-4.

2. The universal proclamation. Vs. 2-4. (1) By day and by night—a perpetual display of His creative power. When the curtain of night is drawn a more wonderful revelation is unfolded in the multitude of the stars. (2) This proclamation is world wide embracing all the human race. Vs 4.

3. The wonderful illustration. Vs. 4-6. The sun. (1) Its place. V 4. (2) Its circuit. Vs. 4-6. (3) Its blessing, light, heat .fruit. Cp. Christ. Cp. John 8:12, etc.

II. His Will, Way and Word in the Scriptures. Vs. 7-11.

1. Its seven fold description. (1) Perfect. V. 7. Cp. God’s perfect (a) Word, Psalm 19:7, our authority, (b) Work, Deuteronomy 32:4. our salvation, (c) Way, Psalm 18:30, our aim. (d) Will, Romans 12:2, our delight . (2) Sure. V. 7. Steadfast; Joshua 23:14; John 10:35. (3) Right. V. 8. Suitable for all needs and situations. (4) Pure. V. 8. Free from all error. Cp. Proverbs 30:5; Psalm 12:6. (5) Clean. V. 5. opposed to all sin and unrighteousness of man. Cp. John 15:3. It reveals all iniquity. (6) True. V. 9. Cp. John 17:17. (7) Righteous. V. 9. Revealing the righteousness of God. Romans 1:17.

2. Its seven fold operation. Vs. 7-11. (1) Converting. V. 8. “Turning.” Cp. Matthew 18:3. It turns man from sin to holiness; from self to-God; from hell to heaven. (2) Teaching. V. 7. Cp. 2 Timothy 3:15; Titus 2:12; Psalm 119:98 (3) Rejoicing. V .3. Psalm 119:62; 1 John “1:4; John 15:11. (4) Enlightening. V. 8; Psalm 119:105, 130; 2 Corinthians 4:4, 6. (5) Enduring. V. 9. 1 Peter 1:23; Matthew 24:35. (6) Warning. V. 6; Ezekiel 3:18; 33:4; John 12:47, 48. (7) Rewarding. V. 11. With Life, John 5:24; Light, Psalm 119:130: Liberty, John 8:32.

3. Its value illustrated. V. 10.

III. Himself in His Beloved Son—The Living Word, “My Strength and Redeemer.” V. 14. Vs. 12-14. Both creation and the word lead to Him, the Living Word; John 1:1-3. Note the 3 petitions that reveal the power of the living Word.

1. Cleansing. V. 12: 1 John 1:7.

2. Keeping. V. 13. Cp. John 10:27-30.

3. Delivering. V. 13; Hebrews 7:25. Is He your Strength and your Redeemer?

Lesson 94: The Praise Psalm
Psalm 103
Golden Text: Psalm 92:1

I. Praise for His Benefits; vs. 1-5. The book of Psalms is pre-eminently a book of praise. The divine injunction; Psalm 100:4; Hebrews 13: 15. The Divine purpose; Psalm 50:23. Verses 1 and 2 constitute the 2 middle verses of the Bible. Notice the benefits.

1. Forgiveness; vs. 3. Its source, God; Ephesians 4:32; Jeremiah 33:8; Luke 23:34; Jeremiah 31:34; Luke 5:21. (2) Its character, (a) Gracious; Ephesians 1:7; Psalm 86:15. (b) Righteous; Romans 3:25, 26. (c) Abundant; Isaiah 55:7; Psalm 103:3, 4. (d) Free; I John 2:12; Romans 4:7; Ephesians 1:7. (e) Complete; Isaiah 1:18; Hebrews 10:14-17; Isaiah 43:25. (3)Its means. Faith in the Son of God. His Person and work; Acts 13:38, etc., etc.

2. Healing; V. 3. (1) Of the soul; Jeremiah 17:14; Psalm 23:3; Luke 10:33, 34 (2) Of the body if it is His will; Philippians 2:27, etc.

3. Redemption; V. 4. (1) Its meaning—to buy back. (2) Its necessity sold under sin; Isaiah 50:1-3; Rom 7:14; John 8:34; Romans 6:16. (3) Its price, “the blood;” 1 Peter 1:18; Mark 10:45; 1. Timothy 2:5, 6. (4) Its result; Eph 1:7; Galatians 4:5.

4. Blessings; vs. 4. Cp. Ephesians 1:3; 1 Peter 1:3-5.

5. Satisfaction; vs. 5; cp. Psalm 107:9, 36:8, 63:5; John 4:14.

6. Rejuvenation; v. 5. A new birth, a new creation, a new song and a new city—This is the possession of every believer. One has summed it up thus: 1. He saw me in the law court and forgave me; v. 3. 2. In the hospital and healed me. 3. In the slave market and redeemed me; v. 4. 4. In the palace and crowned me with 2 crowns; Vs. 4. 5. In the banqueting hall and satisfied me; v. 5.

II. Praise for His Attributes; vs. 6-17.

1. Righteousness; vs. 6, 17. (1) God’s character. Cp. Psalm 7:0; 119:13; John 17:25. (2) God’s demand; Leviticus 19:2. (3) Man’s failure; Romans 3:10. (4) God’s provision; Romans 3:21-26.

2. Mercy; v. 8. (1) Its quality “tender;” vs. 4, 13, cp. Psalms 25:6; 119:156; 145:9. (2) Its measure; v. 8. “Plenteous” or great; cp. Ephesians 2:4; Micah 7:18. (3) Duration, “everlasting;” v. 17; cp. Ezekiel 33:11.

3. Grace. V. 8. (1) Its meaning, “The outflow of love to one utterly underserving of it. (2) Its manifestation—In Christ; John 1:14; 2 Corinthians 8:9. (3) Its result—salvation and separation; Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 2:11, 12.

III. Praise for His Dealings; vs. 12-18.

1. In His forgiveness; v. 12. Note what God does with the sins of His people; Jeremiah 31:34; Psalms 32:1; 103:12; Isaiah 38:17; 44:22; Micah 7:14; Jeremiah 33:8; 1:20.

2. In His forbearance; Vs. 13-18. Due to His knowledge of us; cp. What the Lord knows; Psalm 44:21; Luke 16:15; Acts 15:8; Psalm 1:6; Job 23:10; Nahum 1:7; 2 Timothy 2:19; 2 Peter 2:9; Matthew 6:8.

IV. Praise From All Creation; vs. 19-22. Cp. Revelation 5:12, 13; Psalm 150:1-6. “Heaven, earth and ocean in full harmony.”

Lesson 95: Solomon’s Vision
1 Kings 1:5—3:28
Golden Text: Job 28:28

I. Usurpation of Adonijah; 1:5-31.

1. His self exaltation; vs. 5-10; Proverbs 16:18; 29:33; Jeremiah 49:16; Luke 18:14; 1 Peter 5:6. See 1 Chronicles 22:9, 10. Cp. Isaiah 45:9.

2. The intercession of Bathsheba; vs. 11-28.

3. David’s reiterated promise; vs .28-31.

II. The Coronation of Solomon; 1:32-53.

1. The new king; vs. 32-40. Picture the imposing event as Solomon, riding the king’s mule, is escorted to Gihon, anointed and crowned, etc.

2. The consternated enemy; Vs. 41-49.

3. The refuge of the altar; vs. 50-53. The altar a place of (1) Sacrifice; Exodus 20:24. (2) Refuge; cp. Exodus 21:14; 1 Kings 1:51; cp. Hebrews 6:18. This was true except for certain offenders.

III. The Judgment Upon the Enemy; 2:1-46.

1. David’s counsel and death; vs. 1-11. Note vs. 2-4. Good advice to a young man or woman on the threshold of life with all its possibilities before him.

2. Adonijah’s further folly and death; vs. 12-25.

3. The judgment on Abiathar; vs. 26, 27. See the fulfillment of; 1 Samuel 2:30; cp. Isaiah 41:22, 23; Matthew 5:18; Luke 21:22.

4. Joab’s end; vs. 28-34; cp. Numbers 35:33. His murder of Abner and Amasa had been particularly cruel; Cp. 2 Samuel 3:28, 29; Galatians 6:7-8; Genesis 9:6. This has never been revoked.

5. Shimei’s foolishness and death; vs. 36-46. (1) The condition plain and simple; vs. 37, 38. (2) The cause; vs. 39-41. How foolish! Put his life in jeopardy for a little temporal loss; cp. the sinner; Mark 8:36, 42-46. (3) The consequences; v. 46. He died when he might have lived. The brook Kedron was “the dead line,” Once he crossed that his doom was sealed. Cp. the dead line of the rejection of Christ, of the river of death, of the coming of the Lord.

IV. Solomon’s Vision; 3:1-8.

1. His description. “He loved the Lord;” v. 3. Do you? 1 John 4:10; John 15:13; 1 Corinthians 16:22; 1 Peter 1:8; Psalm 18:1; 1 John 4:19; 2 Corinthians 5:14.

2. His vision; vs. 5-14. (1) The question; v. 5. Think of Who is speaking; Cp. Isaiah 40:12-23. (2) The answer; vs. 6-9. A wise choice; cp. Proverbs 2:1-6; 3:13-26. Have we made it? Cp. The wisdom of God; 1 Corinthians 1:24; Colossians 2:3; Matthew 6:33; Romans 8:32. Life’s greatest choice—Christ. (3) God’s promise: vs. 10-14; cp. Ephesians 3:20; Philippians 4:19; 1 Corinthians 3:18-23. “All things.” (4) Solomon’s joy; v. 15.

3. His wisdom: vs. 16-28. The greater than Solomon; Luke 11:31. Greater in

(1) Origin—Christ was David’s Lord; Matthew 22:42-45.

(2) Dignity—Christ was the Temple; John 2:18-21.

(3) Wisdom—Christ was Wisdom; Colossians 2:3.

(4) Power—Christ is King of Kings; Revelation 19:16.

(5) Love—Christ is love incarnate; 1 John 4:8.

(6) Glory—Christ’s glory is unfading; Matthew 6:28, 29.

(7) Wealth—Christ is Owner of all; Hebrews 1:2.

Lesson 96: Building And Dedication Of The Temple
1 Kings 4:4-34; 5:1-12; 6:1-14; 8:1-66
Golden Text: Psalm 16:11

I. His Wonderful Wisdom; 4:20-34.

1. The happy state of Israel; vs. 20-25.

2. The variety of his knowledge; vs. 29-33. (1) Its source-God. (2) Its outlet, (a) In his proverbs. (b) In song, (c) Forestry, (d) Zoology, (e) Ornithology, (f) Ichthyology. God’s wisdom is manifold or variegated. Ephesians 3:10. Cp. Job 12:7-10.

II. The Preparation; 5:1-12; etc.

1. The message to Hiram; vs. 1-6.

2. The response; vs. 7-12.

III. The Erection; 6:11-14.

1. God’s promise; vs. 11-13. A conditional one. Obedience to His word, will and way commanded. Cp. “I will dwell” with Exodus 25:8, 22; Leviticus 26:12. Cp. God’s dwelling place now. 2 Corinthians 6:16; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:20.

2. The erection of the building. This is a beautiful type of the Church. Ephesians 2:19-22. (1)The materials, stone and wood. See Isaiah 51:1. (2) The Process. The material was (a) Discovered or found; cp. Luke 15:5; 19:10. (b) Taken or lifted from its place by nature; cp. Psalm 40:2; Colossians 2:13. (c) Cut, shaped and polished. (d) All the building was done silently; 1 Kings 6:7; cp. 1 Corinthians 12:13. (3) The purpose—a dwelling place for God. See Ephesians 2:22.

3. The completion of the building; vs. 14; 7:51. It has been computed that the temple cost $87,202,271,340 to erect. Gold, and silver, 3400 million. Labor, 500 million. Stone, 1300 million. Vessels of silver and gold, 5,000 million, etc. Of how much more value is one redeemed by the precious blood! 1 Peter 1:18, 19.

IV. The Dedication; ch. 8.

1. The installation of the ark; vs. 1-11. (1) Sacrifice; v. 5. (2) Divine acceptance; vs. 10, 11. Cp Exodus 40:34. The glory of the Lord. Where is it now seen? 2 Corinthians 4:6. “In the face of Jesus Christ.” John 17:5; Isaiah 2:1; Acts 7:55; Hebrews 1:3. Cp. Our glory in Him and His in us; 2 Corinthians 4:18; Colossians 1:27.

2. The prayer of Solomon; vs. 12-66. (1) The preamble; vs. 12-21. A reminder of God’s mercy in His dealings with Israel and David. (2)The prayer; 22-61. (a) Adoration for God’s greatness, faithfulness, goodness and mercy; vs. 22-30. Note vs. 23, 27. (b) Supplication; vs. 31-53. Note the 7 petitions in the case of (aa) The trespasser; vs. 31, 32. (bb) Defeat by the enemy; vs. 33, 34. (cc) Drought; vs. 35, 36. (dd) Pestilence; vs. 37-40. (ee) The stranger; vs. 41-43. (ff) War; vs. 44, 45. (gg) Captivity; vs. 46-53. (c) Benediction; vs. 54-61.

3. The thanksgiving; vs. 62-66. Note v. 66. Cp. Psalm 16:11; Isaiah 61:3; Nehemiah 8:10: Romans 14:17; John 15:11; 16:24; etc. This is the longest prayer of the Bible, yet it only takes eight minutes to repeat. Public prayers should therefore be short and to the point.

Lesson 97: Visit Of The Queen Of Sheba
1 Kings 10:1-13
Golden Text: Matthew 13:42

A beautiful picture of the steps in the life of the Believer.

I. She Heard; v. 1. Note.

1. There was a report; v. 1. Cp. Isaiah 53:1. God has spoken; Hebrews 1:1, 2.

2. She heard this report; v. 1. Cp. Romans 10: 14-17; John 5:24; Matthew 13:17; 17:5; 11:15.

3. She believed the report. This is seen by her action. What is this report? John 3:16; Acts 13:38; John 10:9, 10; Romans 1:1-5; 16, 17. Have you heard and believed? Note “concerning … Jehovah;” v. 1.

II. She Came; v. 2. Have you? Matthew 11:28; John 6:37; 5:40; 7:37; Revelation 22:17; Isaiah 1:18; Isaiah 55:1, 3, etc. She proved her faith in the report. She believed to come. She came:

1. Herself. She didn’t send a proxy. Salvation is a personal thing.

2. From a great distance. She was “far off;” Ephesians 2:13.

3. At considerable risk, for she stood to lose her kingdom had there been a revolution during her absence. Was it worth the risk? Did she ever have any regrets?

4. To Solomon. Not to one of his “ministers;” cp. John 1:12; 14:6; 10:9; Acts 4:12; Matthew 11:28.

III. She Communed; vs. 2, 3. Note what she brought.

1. Hard questions. Cp. Man’s questions to God all of which God answers Cp. Job 14:4, 10, 14; 25:4; John 3:9, etc. Arid God’s questions which man does not answer. Mark 8:36; Hosea 9:5; Hebrews 2:3; Jeremiah 13:21.

2. Her heart; v. 2. She kept back nothing. Cp. Jeremiah 29:13; Romans 10:9, 10; etc.

3. The result—all her difficulties solved; v. 3.

IV. She Saw His Treasures; vs. 4, 5.

1. His wisdom. Cp. Matthew 12:42; 1 Corinthians 1:24; Colossians 2:3; Luke 4:22; Matthew 13:54; Proverbs 8.

2. His house. Hebrews 3:6; Ephesians 1:22, 23; 2:20-22.

3. His provision. Cp. 1 Corinthians 3:21; Romans 8:32; Philippians 4:19.

4. Sitting of servants. Cp. Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 3:1.

5. Standing of his ministers. Romans 5:2; 14:4; 1 Corinthians 15:1; 1 Peter 5:12; Colossians 4:12.

6. Their apparel. Cp. Isaiah 61:10; 1 Corinthians 1:30; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 3:22.

7. The way of ascent. Cp. Phil .3:10; Colossians 3:1; Philippians 3:20, 21.

V. She Testified; Vs. 6-9. “The half not told.”

1. As to the truth of the report; v. 6.

2. As to his wisdom.

3. As to his fame. Cp. Matthew 3:17; 17:5. Cp. Romans 10:9, 10; Mark 7:37; John 7:46; 9:25; Luke 8:39; 2 Corinthians 9:15. This queen shall be a star witness at the Great White Throne. Matthew 12:42.

VI. She Gave Her Treasures; v. 10. What the believer should give.

1. His heart. Proverbs 23:26.

2. Thanks. Psalm 30:4; Hebrews 13:15.

3. Honour. Psalm 29:2.

4. Prayer. Acts 6:4.

5. Body. Romans 12:1

6. Substance. 2 Corinthians 9:7, 8; 8:5, 7.

VII. Solomon Gave To Her; v. 13. Note what—all her desire. Cp. Psalm 37:4; Romans 8:32; 1 Timothy 6:17. Behold a greater than Solomon is here! Isaiah 63:1; Revelation 1:12-18.

Lesson 98: Studies In The Proverbs
Proverbs 1—3:26
Golden Text: Proverbs 3:5, 6

William Arnot has well described the book of Proverbs as “Laws of heaven for life on earth.”

I. Wisdom Defined; 1:1-9.

1. The wise man; v. 5. (1) Hears. Cp. Proverbs 8: 34; Matt 7:24; John 8:47; Revelation 22:17; Romans 10:17; Matthew 13:9; John 12:47. (2) Learns. Cp. Deuteronomy 31:12, 13; Matthew 11:29. (3) Attains—make a success of life.

2. The fool. V. 7. Despises. Cp. 1 Corinthians 14:38; Ephesians 4:18; Romans 10:3. The penalty of ignorance is deeper ignorance.

3. What wisdom is; v. 7. The fear of the Lord. Cp. Proverbs 8:3; 9:10; 14:26, 27; Malachi 3:16; Nehemiah 5:9; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Psalm 25:12; 34:9; 31:19; 103:13; 145:19; 112:1; etc.

4. The injunction. “Vs. 8, 9.

II. Wisdom’s Warning; vs. 10-19. The evils of bad company. Proverbs 13:20; 28:7; 1 Corinthians 15:33; Psalm 119:63.

1. The proposal; vs. 10, 11.

2. The plot; vs. 11-14. “Easy money.”

3. The plea; v. 15; 2 Corinthians 6:14-17.

4. The peril; vs. 16-19.

III. Wisdom’s Cry; vs. 20-33.

1. Its publicity; vs. 20. 21. There is no excuse for ignorance.

2. To whom addressed. “Simple, scorners, fools.” Does this describe you? Cp. Proverbs 22:3; 9:12; 1:7.

3. The promise; v. 23. To the repentant. Cp. Acts 3:19; Luke 13:3; Acts 17:30, 31.

4. Judgment pronounced; vs. 24-33. Cp. John 12:46, 47; Luke 13:24-28.

IV. Wisdom’s Injunction; 2:1-9.

1. Applying the heart; v. 2. Cp. Psalm 90:2; Proverbs 22:17; 23:12.

2. Asking for it; v. 3; Isaiah 1:5.

3. Seeking for it; v. 4. Cp. Jeremiah 29:13.

4. Finding it; v. 9. Cp. Matthew 7:7.

V. Wisdom’s Precepts and Promises; 2:10-3:12.

1. Further warning; vs. 10-22. Note the six steps; vs. 12, 13a, 13b, 14a, 14b, 16.

2. Concerning the word of God; vs. 3:1-4. Note the blessings of keeping it.

3. A motto for life; vs. 5-8. Note “with all thine heart.” Cp. Deuteronomy 4:29; 10:12; 13:3; 30:2; 30:10; 1 Kings 1:4; 14:8; Psalm 87:12.

4. Concerning giving; vs. 9, 10. Cp. 2 Corinthians 8, 9.

5. Concerning chastisement; vs. 11, 12. Cp. Hebrews 12:5-11.

VI. “Wisdom’s Value; vs. 3:13-26. Note the illustrations used to emphasize this. Remember, Christ is the Wisdom of God. Proverbs 8; 1 Corinthians 1:24, 30. Therefore seek Him. Matthew 6:33.

Lesson 99: The Kingdom Divided
1 Kings 11-14
Golden Text: Proverbs 9:12

Compare in these Kingdom studies the parallel account in Chronicles.

I. Solomon’s Latter Days; 11:1-43. The tragedy of the Backslider.

1. Unequal yokes; vs. 1-3. Rank disobedience 10 the expressed will of God; v. 2. Exodus 34:16; Deuteronomy 7:3. 4; 2 Corinthians 6:14, 15.

2. Idolatry; vs. 4-8. One sin leads to others. Bad leads to worse. The backslider in heart is filled with his own ways. Proverbs 14:14. Study a Bible dictionary for a description of Ashtoreth and Molech. Cp. the folly of idolatry. Psalm 135:15-18; Isaiah 44:9-20. Cp. 1 Corinthians 10:14; Colossians 3:5; 1 John 5:21.

3. Judgment; vs. 9-13. (1) The perils of privilege; v. 9, “twice.” Cp. Luke 12:47, 48; John 3:19. (2) Increased light brings increased responsibility. Note vs. 13, 34-36. The line of the Messiah preserved.

4. The adversaries; vs. 14-40. (1) Hadad; vs. 14-22. (2) Rezon; vs. 23-25. (3) Jeroboam; vs. 26-40. (a) The prophecy; vs. 20-39. (b) The consequence; v. 40.

5. Solomon’s death; vs. 41-43. A reign that began so bright and ended so dark. His book, Ecclesiastes, describes his vain search for satisfaction “under the sun.” Cp. 2 Timothy 4:7. Cp. The Greater than Solomon. John 17:4; etc.

II. The Division of the Kingdom; 12:1-25.

1. The petition; vs. 1-5.

2. The consultation; vs. 6-11. (1) The counsel of the wise and experienced; vs. 6, 7. (2) The counsel of youth and folly; vs. 8-11. How much better if he had taken counsel of God as his father had done. James 1:5; Proverbs 2:3-5.

3. The folly; vs. 12-15. Proverbs 15:1; 6:3; James 4:1-10.

4. The division; vs. 16-20.

5. The prohibition; vs. 21-25.

III. Jeroboam’s Polly; vs. 26-33.

1. His unbelief; v. 26. Cp. 1 Kings 11:37, 38.

2. His folly; vs. 27-33. A new religion all of his own; v. 33. How like the new fangled cults of today, the product of man’s sinful heart.

3. The warning; 13:1-33. (1) The prophecy; v. 2. Cp. 2 Kings 23:15, 16. (2) The judgment; vs. 4-9. (3) The disobedient prophet; vs. 10-34. A warning to the Christian worker today. 1 Corinthians 9:27.

4. The judgment; 14:1-20. Note v. 15. The disguised sinner. Cp. Matthew 23:25-28.

5. The death of Rehoboam; vs. 21-31. (1) His evil reign; vs. 21-24. (2) His city spoiled; vs. 25-28. From gold to brass. The form without the power! Formalism. Cp. Revelation 3:17; 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

Lesson 100: Asa’s Reign
1 Kings 15-16; 2 Chronicles 13-16
Golden Text: 2 Chronicle* 16:9a

I. The Reign of Abijam; vs. 1-8. Cp. 2 Chronicles 13:1-22, called here “Abijah.”

1. The battle with Jeroboam. 2 Chronicles 13.

2. The sad characteristic. 1 Kings 15:3. An imperfect heart with God. The heart is the motivating part of man, and only as God reigns within can man be truly blessed. Note the heart. (1) Its description by nature; Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21. (2) Appealed to by God; Proverbs 3:5; Jeremiah 29:13. (3) Believing God’s word; Romans 10:9, 10; Acts 8:37 (4) Occupied by Christ; Ephesians 3:17. (5) Enjoying communion with Him; Revelation 3:20.

II. The Reign of Asa; 1 Kings 15:9-24. Cp. 2 Chronicles 14:1—16:14.

1. The restoration. 1 Kings 15:9-15. (1) Idolatry put down; v. 12. (2) The queen mother dethroned; v. 13. (3) The house of the Lord restored; v. 15. Cp. 2 Corinthians 7:9-11; Hebrews 12:12, 13. 1 Corinthians.11:31. There can be no real restoration until sin has been judged and put away. See 2 Corinthians 6:14—7:1; Isaiah 1:10-19.

2. The enemy defeated. 2 Chronicles 14:9-15. Asa’s prayer. His strong faith and its abundant answer. This is still the Divine order. After separation from all known sin, deliverance is promised from the enemy. See Romans 6:13, 14.

3. The revival. 2 Chronicles 15. (1) Its inspiration —God’s message through Azariah; vs. 1-7. (a) Encouragement; v. 2, “God with you.” Cp. 13:12; 32:8; Deuteronomy 20:1; Matthew 28:18-20. (b) Precept. V. 2. “While ye be.” See John 15:10; 1 John 2:24; 2 John 9-11. (c) Promise; v. 2. “He will be found.” Cp. 1 Chronicles 33:12, 13; Isaiah 55:6, 7; 1 Chronicles 28:9. (d) Plea; v. 7. Cp. Joshua 1:7-9; 1 Chronicles 28:20; 2 Corinthians 2:14; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Colossians 3:24; Galatians 6:9, 10. (2) Its manifestations; vs. 8-14. (a) Courage; v. 8. Cp. Psalm 27:1. (b) Cleansing; V. 8; 2 Corinthians 7:1. (c) Communion; V. 8. “Altar.” The plea “of sacrifice and fellowship. Cp. Hebrews 4:16; 10:19-22. (d) Consecration; V. 12; Romans 12:1, 2; Romans 6:13. (e) Its consummation; V. 15. Revival of rejoicing. Cp Psalm 85:6.

4. The latter days. 2 Chronicles 16:1-14. (1) His league with Syria; vs. 1-6. (2) The message from God; vs. 7-9. Note particularly v. 9. (3) The rage of Asa; v. 10. (4) His end; vs. 12-14. It is not enough for the believer to start well, but he must finish well also, if he is to be the testimony God wants him to be. See some other examples of those who did not finish well. Galatians 5:7; 3:3; 2 Timothy 4:10. See Paul’s great desire; 1 Corinthians 9:26, 27.

III. The Contemporaneous Kings of Israel. 1 Kings 15:25—16:34. A history of confusion, murder, usurpation and sin of every description. Refer briefly to these to give the historic setting.

1. Nadab; vs. 25, 26.

2. Baasha; vs. 27—16:6.

3. Elah; vs. 6-9.

4. Zimri; vs. 9-20.

5. Omri; vs. 16-28.

6. Ahab; vs. 28-34.

Lesson 101: Elijah’s Prophecy And Supply
1 Kings 17:1-24
Golden Text: Jeremiah 33:3

I. The Setting; 1 Kings 16:29-34.

1. Ahab’s evil reign; vs. 29-33. (1) His infamous wife; v. 31. (2) His idolatrous practices; vs. 31-33.

2. The rebuilding of Jericho; v. 34. Cp. Joshua 6:26. Fulfilled prophecy is one of the hallmarks of its inspiration. Cp. Isaiah 45:21; 41:22, 23; 2 Peter 1:20, 21.

II. The Prophecy; 17:1. Elijah suddenly appears. We know nothing of his parentage and up bringing, but God undoubtedly prepared him for the work in the quietness of his own home. Cp. John the Baptist; Luke 3:1, 2. “The word of God came unto John.” See also Christ’s 30 silent years in Nazareth; Luke 2:50, 51.

1. Its authority—God. James 5:16-18. The mighty power of prayer.

2. Its content; v. 1. No dew or rain. Cp. Deuteronomy 11:13-18. Apply spiritually the results of sin. (1) A closed heaven—no communion. (2) A parched and thirsty land—no joy. (3) A fruitless country—no blessing.

III. The Provision; vs. 2-16.

1. The ravens; vs. 2-7. This provision was (1) Divinely appointed; v. 2. Cp. Daniel 4:25; Psalm 148:7-10. Created by Him, controlled by Him. See Matthew 17:27. (2) Unexpected. “Ravens.” The least likely means. The ravens were unclean birds, yet God used them to supply the needs of His servant. Cp. Acts 28:2; Matthew 7:25-34. (3) Regular “morning and eve.” Cp. Philippians 4:19. Jehova Jireh—The Lord will provide.

2. The widow; vs. 8-16. Cp. 1 Corinthians 1:26-28. (1) Her description; v. 1. “A widow.” A most unlikely source of supply. (2) Her condition, typical of the sinner; vs. 10-12. (a) Poor. Cp. Luke 7:42; Ephesians 2:12. (b) Starving. Cp. Ecclesiastes 1:2; Psalm 107:5, 9; Matthew 5:6; Luke 1:53. Cp. Soul hunger, (c) Hopeless. “Die.” Romans 6:23; Hebrews 9:27. (3) The solicitation; vs. 11-13. “First.” God must come first. Cp. Matthew 6:33; 2 Corinthians 8:5. (4) The explanation; v. 14. The Divine promise. Numbers 23:19. (5) The realization; vs. 15, 16. The unfailing supply. Note some things that “fail not.” (a) His Presence and Power. Deuteronomy 31:6. (b) Provision, l Kings 17:14. (c) His Promises. Joshua 21:45; Luke 16:17. (d) Faithfulness. Psalm 89:33. Cp. 2 Timothy 2:13. (e) His Son. Isaiah 42:4. (f) Compassions; Lamentations 3:22. (g) Future glory. Luke 12:33.

IV. The “Widow’s Son Raised; vs. 17-24.

1. Desolation—death the enemy; v. 17. Cp. Romans 5:12; 6:23. Death has well been called “The grim reaper,” for he has gathered a fearful harvest of old and young.

2. Distress; v. 18. How often in the moment of distress the soul fails to see the hand of God.

3. Supplication; v. 20. Here is “the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man.” Cp. Matthew 7:7; Jeremiah 33:3; John 14:12-14; Ephesians 3:20.

4. Restoration; vs. 21-23. The gift or life bestowed. Cp. The new birth through faith in Christ. John 3:3, 14-16; Ephesians 1:13.

5. Her testimony; v. 24. “Now I know.” Cp. 1 John 5:13; 2 Timothy 1:12.

Lesson 102: Elijah At Carmel
1 Kings 18
Golden Text: 1 Kings 18:21

I. The Commission; V. 1. The three years of drought about to be broken. God’s purpose in His judgments upon the earth. Isaiah 26:9. He is still “The Governor amongst the nations”; Psalm 22:28.

II. The Meeting With Obadiah; vs. 2-16. Contrast Obadiah’s fear of the King and his secret discipleship with Elijah’s fearlessness and bold avowal. Cp. John 12:42, 43; 2 Timothy 1:12; Romans 1:16; 2 Timothy 1:7.

III. The Meeting With Ahab; vs. 17-20.

1. The question; v. 17. How often men blame God for the trouble they bring on themselves. “What Ahab needed was a looking glass to locate the seat of the trouble! See Isaiah 57:20, 21. Psalm 107:17.

2. The answer; v. 18. Bold and uncompromising. Cp. 2 Samuel 12:17; Isaiah 58:1; Ezekiel 33:1-6.

3. The command; vs. 19, 20.

IV. The Test of the Living and True God; vs. 21-40.

1. The question; v. 21. To a backsliding, vacillating and procrastinating people. The folly of indecision. God demands an immediate decision, either one way or the other. See Matthew 6:24. Press home this truth.

2. The Test; v. 22. One with God, against 450 without God. (1) The proposal; vs. 23, 24. “The God that answereth” must be the living and true God. (2) The vain cry; vs. 25-29. (a) Their prayer; v. 26, “hear us.” (b) Their fervour; v. 26. “Leaped,” plenty of motion and religious antics, but no fire! Cp. modern false cults with their claims, and ornate ritual, but no regenerations! (c) Elijah’s mockery; v. 27. Cp. Psalm 135:15-18. (d) Their utter failure; vs. 28, 29. (3) The altar of the Lord re-erected; v. 30. Access to God restored. His word obeyed and God given His pre-eminent place. Cp. Jeremiah 6:16. Sin acknowledged and sacrifice provided, showing that the only way into God’s favor was by means of a Divinely appointed and Divinely accepted sacrifice. (4) The test altar erected. The unity of Israel reaffirmed; vs. 31-36. No possibility of “chance” allowed. God must have all the glory. (5) Elijah’s prayer; 36, 37. Its reverence, simplicity, faith and singleness of eye to God’s honor. (6) The miracle; v. 38. Compare the great mystery and miracle of Calvary, when the fire of God’s wrath fell, In all its fury, upon the One Who willingly bore our sins in His Own Body on the tree.” This is God’s demonstration to all the world, of His love, mercy, holiness, justice and truth. Has it resulted in your conversion? (7) The result; v. 39. Conversion to God. (8) The judgment on the idolatrous priests; v. 40. Cp. Deuteronomy 13:5; 18:20.

V. The Showers of Blessing; vs. 41-46.

1. The dynamic of prayer; vs. 41, 42. James 5:17, 18; 1:6, 7; Mark 11:22-24.

2. The abundance of rain; vs. 43-46. From a small beginning about the size of a “man’s hand” to a mighty torrent. Cp. Ezekiel 34:26.

Lesson 103: Elijah’s Flight And Revelation
1 Kings 19
Golden Text: Isaiah 40:31

I. Jezebel’s Threat; 19:1, 2. Her fury at the death of the priests of Baal. In spite of the clear evidence of the folly and sin of Baal worship she persisted in her iniquity. Cp. The hypnotic power of error to blind and dull the reason. Cp. 2 Thessalonians 2:11, 12; Ephesians 4:18.

II. Elijah’s Flight; vs. 3-S. The tragedy of reaction. How often a great depression of spirit follows a great victory. The physical is closely allied to the spiritual. An over taxed body needs recuperation.

1. The flight; vs. 3, 4.

2. The request; v. 4. For death. Cp. Numbers 11: 15 and Jonah 4. Here is a saint in the wrong place. Cp. others. Abram in Egypt. Genesis 12:10. Jonah in the whale. Jonah 2. The deceived prophet. 1 Kings 13:14. David on house; Cp. 2 Samuel 11. Lot in Sodom. Genesis 14:12. Peter by the Are. Luke 22:55. The causes of Elijah’s depression were (1) Physical weakness. He had had a thrilling experience, a strenuous time and a long journey that exhausted his nervous energy. (2) Abounding wickedness. Israel was apostate, vice was rampant. Elijah could not see it and be unmoved and he testified against it until it became an obsession to him and robbed him of his fellowship with God. (3) Lack of employment. Under the juniper tree and in the cave he got “rusty.” He mistook isolation for separation. It is good to be active in His service.

3. The refreshment; vs. 5-7. Cp. Psalm 103:13 ,14. Cp. John 21:9.

4. The journey; v. 8. Cp. Ephesians 3:16; 1 Peter 2: 1, 2; 1 John 2:14; Ephesians 6:10.

III. God’s Revelation; v. 9.

1. The query; v. 9. What doest thou here? Cp. Jonah 1:6.

2. The response; v. 10. Elijah intercedes against Israel. Elijah became the accuser of Israel instead of the intercessor. For this he was deposed and another chosen to take his place. Cp. Romans 11:2.

3. The revelation; vs. 11-13. The exhibition of God’s greatness and power to His weak servant. Yet God was not in the spectacular, but the still, small voice. Cp. God’s voice in creation. Genesis 1. Law. Deuteronomy 4:33. Grace. Matthew 3:7. Judgment. Hebrews 12:26-29.

4. The reiterated question; v. 13, and the answer.

5. The message; vs. 15-18. God can take care of His servant and also judge His people. (1) As to the anointing of his successor; v. 16. (2) The remnant of the faithful; v. 18. Cp. Romans 11:4, 5; Acts 18:10. These 7,000, however, had not been conspicuous by their open confession.

IV. The Call of Elisha; vs. 19:21.

1. The time of it; v. 19. While he was busily engaged. God doesn’t call lazy people. Cp. Acts 13:2; 8:25, 26.

2. The nature of it; v. 19. The mantle. God calls in many ways. By His word, by the leading of His Spirit, by the counsel of Godly men, by the need that arises and by His providence.

3. The cost: v. 20. His business and family. Philippians 3:4-14.

4. The compensation. The “Well done.” 2 Timothy 4:8; Matthew 25:21.

Lesson 104: Ahab’s Sin
1 Kings 20-21
Golden Text: Romans 12:19

I. The War Against Syria; ch. 20.

1. The message to Ahab; vs. 1-12. (1) The demand; 1-3. (2) The reply; v. 4. What a pitiable condition! Godlessness destroys the spirit of freedom. (3) The further demand; vs. 5, 6. Additional indignities. Here the enemy overreached himself. (4) The reply; vs. 7-9. (5) The fierce threat; vs. 10-12. Impious, egotistic, bombastic. Note the proverbial reply; v. 11. Cp. 1 Corinthians 4:19, 20; 2 Peter 2:18; Jude 16.

2. The first victory; vs. 13-21. (1) The prophecy, vs. 13, 14. God was about to bare His arm against the gods of Syria. (2) The result; vs. 15-21.

3. The second victory; vs. 22-30. (1) The foolish argument; vs. 23-26. They were ignorant of the force against them. Cp. Acts 5:39; 23:9; Exodus 14:14; etc. (2) The two forces; v. 27. Cp. Romans 8:31. (3) The great victory; vs. 28-30. It was not due to Ahab’s virtue but a vindication of God’s honor.

4. Ahab’s folly; vs. 31-43. (1) The ambassage; vs. 31-33. (2) The folly; v. 34. Entering into a covenant with God’s enemy. Cp. Saul and Agag. 1 Samuel 15; 2 Corinthians 6. (3) The result; vs. 35-43. The parable used to bring home his sin. Apply spiritually. Romans 6:11; Ephesians 4:22.

II. The Coveted Vineyard; 21:1, 2.

1. The request; vs. 1, 2. He asked that which God’s word refused. Cp. Leviticus 25:23; Numbers 36:7; Ezekiel 46:18. Cp. Our inheritance. Ephesians 1:11, 18; 1 Peter 1:4; Colossians 1:12. Who can provide a better or give its value in gold? I Peter 1:18, 19. Compare the garden to the spiritual life of the believer. Galatians 5:22, 23. It is possible for the Christian to forfeit this fruit through worldliness, carelessness and neglect of the word of God and prayer.

2. The refusal; v. 3. Cp. Acts 4:19; 5:29.

3. The result; v. 4. The behaviour of a spoiled child.

III. The Fearful Plot; vs. 5-16.

1. Its source—Jezebel of infamous memory.

2. The scheme; vs. 8-11. Forgery, hypocrisy, bribery, perjury, murder. What a fearful list of sins to gratify a selfish lust. Does sin pay? Romans 6:23; Ezekiel 18:4, 20; Mark 8:36; Romans 2:3; Revelation 20:10-15; Numbers 32:23.

3. The success; vs. 12-16. Cp. Isaiah 57:1, 2. It sometimes appears as though God does not care, and evil men are allowed to work their vile schemes unhindered; but God knows and cares and shall repay in His own good time and way. Romans 12:19.

IV. The Stern Denunciation; vs. 17-19.

1. The message; vs. 17-19. Cp. Galatians 6:7; Romans 12:19.

2. Ahab’s query and reply; v. 20. Cp. Romans 7:11. Our condition by nature. Sold. Cp. Isaiah 52:3. Therefore needing redemption. Galatians 4:4, 5; Mark 10:45; Romans 3:24; 1 Peter 1:18; etc. Note vs. 23, 24. Also God’s commentary; vs. 25. 26.

3. Ahab’s humiliation and its result; vs. 27-29.

Lesson 105: Jehoshaphat’s Ungodly Alliance
1 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 18
Golden Text: 2 Corinthians 6:14

I. The Ungodly Alliance; 1 Kings 22:1-4. Cp. 2 Chronicles 18.

1. The circumstances; 2 Chronicles 18:1. In the time of plenty. Cp. Proverbs 30:8, 9; Revelation 3:17. The perils of prosperity; Matthew 6:21. Deuteronomy 6:10-12; 8:10-17. The temptations of money to (1) Pride; 1 Timothy 6:17. (2) Worldly ease; Luke 16:19. (3)Neglect of God; Proverbs 30:8. (4) Selfishness; Luke 12:15. (5) Trusting in riches; Mark 10:24.

2. The covenant; 2 Chronicles 18:1, 3; 1 Kings 22:4. “I am as thou art.” Cp. Ahab’s character with Jehoshaphat; see 2 Chronicles 17:1-6. The perils and folly of the unequal yoke and worldly alliance. Cp. 2 Chronicles 19:2; Psalm 119:63; 1 John 2:15, 16; Ephesians 5:11; Leviticus 10:10; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. This is true matrimonially, commercially, socially and spiritually. Be separate! Notice v. 3. Here is possession without appropriation. Ramoth was theirs by right of God’s gift and Joshua’s power, but they had not appropriated their possession. Apply this spiritually. See Genesis 13:14-18. Joshua 1:3. Have we possessed our possessions? Obadiah 17.

II. The False Prophets; vs. 5, 6.

1. Their number; v. 5. They were the “majority.”

2. Their message; v. 6. “Peace, peace.” Cp. Jeremiah 8:11; Isaiah 30:10. Note carefully 1 Timothy 4:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:1-9. Illustrate by modern false cults.

III. The True Messenger; vs. 7-28. Note the query, v. 7.

1. His irony; v. 15.

2. His fearless exposure; vs. 16-23. (1) By direct statement; v. 17. (2) By parable; vs. 19-23. The perils of false doctrine. Cp. 2 Thessalonians 2:11, 12; 1 Corinthians 14:38; 2 Timothy 4:1-4; 3:13.

3. His persecution. (1) By the false prophet; vs. 23, 24. (2) By the King; vs. 25-28. Cp. 2 Timothy 3:12; Matthew 5:11, 12; John 7:7; 15:18-21.

IV. The Ruse; vs. 29-33.

1. The disguise; v. 30. A Jehoshaphat in an Ahab’s robe! Compare a Christian in worldly company, indulging in worldly amusements and joining worldly societies. No wonder the worldling mistakes him for one of its own! 1 Thessalonians 5:22; 1 John 2:15, 16.

2. The deliverance; v. 32. Cp. 2 Chronicles 18:31. Note what Jehoshapat lost as a result of the alliance. (1) His testimony (mistaken for Ahab). (2) His time. (3) Almost lost his life. Apply spiritually. Note—He learned his lesson. Cp. v. 49.

V. Ahab’s Death; vs. 34-40

1. The bow at the venture; v. 34. God can direct the arrow if we hut draw the bow; Mark 16:15; 1 Corinthians 3:6; Ecclesiastes 11:1-6.

2. The prophecy fulfilled; vs. 37-39. Cp. Isaiah 55:11; Daniel 4:35.

Lesson 106: Elijah’s Translation
2 Kings 1-2
Golden Text: John 5:38, 29

I. The Commission to Ahaziah; ch. 1.

1. Ahaziah’s Sickness and his sinful query; vs. 1, 2. He had many opportunities of seeing the wisdom and power of God displayed yet turned from Him to demons. Cp. 1 Corinthians 10:12; 1 Timothy 4:1; Deuteronomy 32:17. Cp. the modern clairvoyant, spiritist, astrologer, palmist, etc., to which thousands are going.

2. God’s message through Elijah; vs. 3-8. The penalty of rejection of God.

3. Ahaziah’s messengers; vs. 9-14. God’s Intervention on His servant’s behalf. Fire from heaven. One with God always spells victory. Cp. Isaiah 43:2, 3; Psalm 91:7; Ezekiel 2:6; 3:8, 9; Psalm 27:1.

4. Elijah’s reiterated message; vs. 15-18. The result. Cp. Numbers 23:19, etc.

II. The Journey to Jordan; 2:1-10.

1. Note the various places visited and the event associated with each. There is much of spiritual profit in this journey, and it would be well if each believer would make this pilgrimage every so often. (1) Galatians The place of self judgment and memorial; Joshua 4:5. (2) Bethel, the place of communion and restoration; Genesis 12. (3) Jericho, the place of obedience and victory; Joshua 3. (4) Jordan, the place of death to self and the old life; Joshua 3. Cp. Romans 6.

2. The testing of Elisha for the new position; vs. 2, 4, 6. God tests the reality of the faith, love and obedience of His people. Cp. Genesis 22; Job 1:8-12; 1 Peter 1:7, etc.

3. The question and answer; vs. 8, 9. (1) The miracle; v. 8. (2) The question; v. 9. What would we have asked for? Riches? Fame? Power? (3) The reply; v. 9. Cp. Deuteronomy 21:17. He did not ask for twice as much of the Spirit but a duplicate portion that he might be Elijah’s “double” i.e., that he might walk like him talk like him and live like him. Cp. 1 Corinthians 11:1. Followers, “imitators.” God’s purpose in the predestination of His’ people is their conformity to His Son. Romans 8:29. God wants us to be like Him. Note Elijah’s answer. Elisha’s likeness to him was dependent on the measure of his occupation with him. “If ye see me.” So with the believer. 2 Corinthians 3:18.

III. The Translation; vs. 11, 12.

1. The Heavenly Chariot; v. 11. Cp The great translation day; 1 Corinthians 15:51-58; l Thessalonians 4:13-18. Are you ready for it? John 3:3; 1 John 3:1, 2; John 14:1-3, etc.

2. The cry; v. 12. The invisible power of God. Cp. 2 Kings 6:17. Cp. Ephesians 1:19.

IV. The Test; vs. 13-25.

1. God’s power remains; vs. 13, 14. God buries His workers but carries on His work.

2. The vain search: vs. 15-18.

3. The healed waters; vs. 19-22.

4. The judgment on the scorners; vs. 23-25. “Young lads;” R. V. Cp. Exodus 16:8; Acts 5: 4. Illust. Luke 8:53, 54.

Lesson 107: Elisha’s Early Ministry
2 Kings 3-4
Golden Text: Psalm 50:15

I. The War With Moab; ch. 3.

1. The ungodly alliance; vs. 1-10. (1) The rebelling Mesha; vs. 4, 5. “The Moabite Stone,” preserved in the British museum, authenticates this. (2) The proposal; vs. 6, 7. Again he falls into the same snare. (3) Their quandary; vs. 9, 10. Cp. Psalm 10:17-19. There was no consulting of God or His word or His prophet. The folly of worldly wisdom and human expediency.

2. The consultation with Elisha. Vs. 11-19. (1) “The query; v. 11. Cp. Jeremiah 6:16. (2) The answer; vs. 13-19. (a) His rebuke; v. 13. (b) The regard; v. 14. (c) The revelation; vs. 15-19.

3. The victory; vs. 20-27.

II. The Widow’s Supply; 4:1-7.

1. Her desperate strait; vs. 1. (1) Bereft of her husband. (2) In debt. (3) In danger of bondage. What a pitiable condition. How typical of a sinner without God, in debt to God, in bondage to sin and the law. Cp. Ephesians 2:12; 4:18; Luke 7:41; John 8:32-35; Romans 6:17-20; Galatians 3:10, 11; Galatians 4:3-5; 5:1.

2. The marvellous remedy; vs. 2-7. (1) The sole possession; v. 2. (2) The plain direction; vs. 3, 4. Nothing ambiguous about it. Cp. the way of salvation. Cp. Isaiah 35:8. (3) The wonderful result; vs. 5-7. (a) Obedience; v. 5. (b) Supply; v. 6. (c) Deliverance; v. 7. This is the Divine order in salvation. Note: The oil increased, not in the vessel, but by pouring out. Cp. Proverbs 11:24, 25; Luke 6:38. Illust. John 6:10-12. “Measure thy life by loss and not by gain. Not by the wine drunk, but by the wine poured forth.”

III. The Great Woman; vs. 8-37.

1. Hospitality; vs. 8-10. The origin of “the prophet’s chamber” Hospitality. (1) Commanded; Romans 12:13; Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4: 9 (2) Commended: 3 John 5-7; Hebrews 13:1, 2. (3) Rewarded; Hebrews 6:10; Matthew 25:37-40.

2. Her humility; vs. 11-13.

3. The promise; vs. 14-17.

4. The tragedy; vs. 18-21. Death the great reaper.

5. The journey; vs. 22-25. Her urgency. He knew her need and the only remedy. Do you?

6. The interview; vs. 26-31. The prophet’s staff that failed. The reason it failed was due to the character of the man who wielded it. He was a covetous man. See chap. 5. Note the mother’s insistence; v. 30. She wanted the man of God, not a substitute. Not the staff, but the man!

7. The wondrous result: vs. 32-37. Note the procedure. Here is a lesson to the Christian worker: (1) Separation—alone; v. 33; Matthew 6-6. (2) Supplication; v. 33; Matthew 7:7, 8. (3) Application to the work; v. 34. (4) Regeneration; v. 35. Life manifests itself (5) Restoration; vs. 36, 37.

IV. The Deadly Pottage; vs. 38-41.

V. The Marvellous Supply; vs. 42-44.

Lesson 108: Naaman The Leper
2 Kings 5
Golden Text: 1 Corinthians 1:18

I. His Description; v. 1. Naaman had what many today imagine would give them complete satisfaction. What he had—

1. Position, “Captain.” The commander-in-chief. At the top of the ladder of fame.

2. Power, “great man.” Authority, popularity and great influence.

3. Character, “honorable,” see margin. Cultured, refined, gracious, a gentleman.

4. Victory, “deliverance.” He had ridden Syria of foreign dominance.

5. Bravery, “valour.” Fearless in the fight.

6. The fearful “but”—“A leper.” That spoiled it all. What his leprosy did: (1) Separated him. (2) Rendered unclean. (3) Incurable. (4) Death. Cp. leprosy with sin from which all suffer. Isaiah 59:1, 2; 64:6; Psalm 14:2, 3, Jeremiah 17:9; 2:22; Romans 6:23. See Lesson 42.

II. His Opportunity; vs. 2, 3.

1. The little maid’s capture. Picture it. Taken from home, friends, comfort, care and counsel.

2. Her purchaser; v. 2: Naaman’s wife.

3. Her faith; v 3. She had brought a simple, childlike faith in the true God with her. The God of redemption, deliverance, provision and protection. In the midst of idolatry she shone for the living God.

III. His Mistakes; vs. 4-11. Many sinners make the same ones.

1. He went to the wrong person; vs. 3-7. To unregenerate Jehoram instead of God’s representative. Cp. Today the minister, church, creed and ordinances.

2. He went with wrong means; v. 5. Gold, silver and raiment. How like the sinner with his own righteousness, good works, resolutions, etc.; Ephesians 2:8, 9.

3. With the wrong idea; v. 11. He wrote out his own prescription. “I thought.” How many today look for “feelings,” “voices” and “visions” instead of God’s way, as revealed in His word.

IV. His Attitude; vs. 10-13.

1. The message, through the servant; v. 10. Simple and definite. Cp. The message of salvation; Acts 16:30, 31, etc.

2. The result; v. 11. Naaman lost his temper. It hurt his pride. God’s way up is always down! Luke 18:14; 1 Corinthians 1:27-29.

3. The reason; v. 13. Nothing unreasonable in God’s way. Isaiah 1:18, etc.

V. His Cure; v. 14.

1. He lost his pride. Good riddance to bad rubbish! Note: He went down.

2. He lost his leprosy. Picture the scene and his feelings as he realized the glorious truth of his cleansing.

VI. His Testimony; vs. 15-19. “I know.” Cp. 1 John 5:13; John 9:25; Romans 1:16; 2 Timothy 1:12. Do you know or hope?

VII. Gehazi’s Perndy; vs. 20-27. Covetousness and its fearful consequence.

1. Covetousness; vs. 19-23.

2. Concealment; vs. 24, 25.

3. Cognizance; v. 26

4. Consequence: v. 27.

Lesson 109: The Four Lepers
2 Kings 6-7
Golden Text: 1 Peter 1:3

I. The Floating Axe; 6:1-7.

1. Cooperation. Vs. 1-4.

2. Consternation; v. 5. “Borrowed.”

3. Revelation; v. 6.

4. Restoration; v. 7. Here is a good illustration of the gospel. It was only when the stick (the Cross) was put into the pool that a superior power to gravitation was demonstrated. When the truth of the cross is heard and believed, the Spirit of God quickens the dead sinner into newness of life.

II. The Chariots of God; 15:8-23.

1. The plans frustrated; vs. 8-11.

2. The attempt to capture Elisha; vs. 12-23. (1) The information; v. 12. (2) The servant’s fear; vs. 13-15. All he saw was the enemy and the danger. How true is this of us! (3) The reply; v. 10. Cp. Romans 8:31; 2 Chronicles 32:7; Psalm 55:18; 1 John 4:4. (4) The prayer. “Opened eyes.” See other instances in Scripture where God opened people’s eyes, (a) To see oneself a sinner; Numbers 22:31. (b) To see God’s salvation; Genesis 21:19. (c) To see perfect security; 2 Kings 6:17. (d) To see the Savior; Luke 24:31. Have we had our eyes opened? (5) The result; v. 17. God’s defense. Cp. Psalm 46:1; 27:1-3; Hebrews 1:13, 14. (6) The deliverance; vs. 18-23.

III. The Fearful Famine; vs. 24-33.

1. The real cause. Sin unconfessed and unjudged.

2. The beseiged city; v. 24. What a graphic picture of Satan’s attack on the city of Man-soul!

3. The bitter cry; vs. 26-30.

4. The terrible threat; vs. 31-33. Would he had judged himself!

IV. The Promise of Provision; 7:1, 2.

1. Its authority—the Lord, and all of grace.

2. Unbelief and its consequences; v. 2.

V. The Four Lepers; vs. 3-20. A fine gospel subject.

1. Their condition—desperate. A picture of the sinner. (1) Besieged by enemy. (2) Starving for food. Psalm 107:4, 5. (3) Poverty. Ephesians 2:12. (4) Pain—lepers. Isaiah 1:6. (5) Separated; v. 3. Isaiah 59:1, 2.

2. Their consultation; vs. 3-5. (1) They reflected; v. 3. Why sit here? Why sinners sit still: through ignorance, indifference, independence of God Note the effect of their reflection. (2) They resolved; v. 4. Cp. Prodigal son. Luke 15. (3) They rose; v. 5. Action.

3. Their revelation; vs. 5-8. (1) A defeated enemy; vs. 5-7. This is the message of Calvary. Hebrews 2:14; Colossians 2:13-15; Luke 11:21, 22. (2) An abundant supply; v. 8. Superabounding. From abject poverty to untold wealth. Cp. Ephesians 1:3-13.

4. Their appropriation: v. 8. “Took.” They made it their own Things to take. Cp. Revelation. 22:17; Ephesians 6:13-18; Matthew 16:24; John 1:12; Isaiah 27:5; etc. Are these riches yours?

5. Their proclamation; vs. 9-11. (1) Confession. V. 9. “Do not well.” (2) Testimony. “Day of good tidings.” Luke 4:22. “Gospel.” (3) Decision. “Go and tell.” Mark 16:15; Luke 8:39, etc. (2) Fulness—for all. (3) Its effect (a) On believer; v. 16. (b) On unbeliever; v. 20.

6. The Provision. Vs. 12-29. Source—God. John 3:36.

Lesson 110: Jonah
Jonah 1-4
Golden Text: Jonah 2:9

I. His Call and Commission; vs. 1, 2.

1. The call; v. 1. “The word of the Lord.” Cp. 1 Kings 14:25 for the time in which he lived

2. The commission; v. 2. To the enemies of Israel with a view to their salvation. Jonah as a patriotic Jew, wished their destruction and not their salvation. Cp. Romans 1:18, etc.; Mark 16:15.

II. His Disobedience; v. 3.

1. His folly. An attempt to flee from God. Cp. Psalm 139:1-12

2. His flight’. “He paid the fare.” Note what the fare to Tarshish really cost. It cost (1) Communion with God. (2) Valuable time that can never be regained. (3) Usefulness in the service of God. (4) Others much danger, trouble and loss; vs. 4-6. (5) Much physical, mental and spiritual suffering. (6) Reward for faithful and devoted service. Did it pay him to flee from his call, commission and duty? Jeremiah 2: 19; 1 Corinthians 10:11.

III. The Fearful Consequences; vs. 4-2:10.

1. The Storm; vs. 4, 5.

2. The query; vs. 6-10. (1) Reproach; v. 6. A sleeping Christian is a menace to the sinner and a disgrace to the Lord. Cp. Ephesians 5:14; Romans 13:11, 12; 1 Thessalonians 5:6-9. (2) Revelation; v. 7. (3) Request; v. 8. Note the four questions. Apply these spiritually, (a) Occupation? The will of God. The Father’s business. Luke 2:49; 4:34. Cp. 1 Peter 4:2; Romans 12:1, 2; Ephesians 6:6; Luke 19:13. (b) Comest thou? From darkness of sin, power of Satan, condemnation of the law. (c) Thy country? John 14:1-3; Philippians 3:21; Hebrews 11:10, 13, 16; Colossians 3:1; Ephesians 2:6. (d) What People? Acts 11:26; Romans 1:7: Acts 20:7; 5:14; 1 Peter 2:9, etc. (4) Reply; v. 9.

3. The result; vs. 11-16. (1) Their request; v. 11. (2) The answer; v. 12. (3) Their prayer; v. 14. Idolatry forgotten. They saw evident tokens of the hand of the true and living God. (4) Jonah cast overboard; v. 15. (5) Its result; v. 16.

4. Jonah’s fearful experience; vs. 17-2:10. (1) The prepared fish; v. 17. Note Christ referred to this as an historic fact. Matthew 12:39-41; 16:4; Luke 11:29, 30. (2) The prayer; 2:1-10. (a) Penitence; vs. 1-7. (b) Promise; v.9. Cp. 1 John 1:9. (c) Confidence. “Salvation is of the Lord.” It is well worth such an experience to discover such a truth! (3) The result; v. 10.

IV. The Renewed Commission; 3:1-10.

1. The message; 3:1-4.

2. The effect; vs. 5-9. (1) Belief in the word; v. 5. Cp. 1 Thessalonians 2:13. (2) Humiliation; vs. 5-7. (3) Confession; vs. 8, 9. Cp. Luke 18:13, 14. Here is a true picture of repentance.

3. The result; v. 10. Forgiveness and deliverance. God’s tender mercy. Cp. Hosea 11:9; Psalm 103:10-14; Ephesians 2:4; Titus 3:4, 5. Compare others who believed God. Abram for righteousness; Genesis 15:6. Paul for rejoicing; Acts 27-24-25.

V. The Complaint; 4:1-11.

1. The prophet’s reaction; vs. 1-3.

2. The parable in nature; vs. 4-10.

3. The moral; v. 11.

Lesson 111: The Young King Jehoash
2 Kings 11-17; 2 Chronicles 24
Golden Text: 2 Peter 8:18

I. The Setting; 2 Kings 8-10. It will be necessary for the class to read these chapters during the week so as to familiarize itself with their contents. The teacher had best select one main subject, that of Jehoash, for the main lesson.

Briefly outline the history of Israel during this period.

1. The evil reign of Jehoram; 8:16-19.

2. The evil reign of Ahaziah; vs. 25-27. Note the reason. The unequal yoke again.

3. The anointing of Jehu over Israel; 9:1-10.

4. The death of Jezebel, Joram and Ahaziah; 9:11-37.

5. The destruction of Baalism; ch. 10.

II. The Fearful Crime; 11:1.

Her fell design circumvented. God preserved the royal line through whom great David’s greater Son was to come.

III. The Coronation; vs. 2-16.

1. The refuge; vs. 2, 3. The house of the Lord

2. The scheme; vs. 4-8.

3. The proclamation; vs. 9-12.

4. The death of Athaliah; vs. 13-16.

IV. The Covenant; vs. 17-21. See 2 Chronicles 23:16-21.

1. The covenant made; v. 17. Romans 12:1, 2; Cp. 2 Chron 23. To be the Lord’s people. Cp Exodus 6:7. The “people of God” are (1) Purchased; 1 Peter 2:9. (2) Prepared; Luke 1-7 (3) Purified; Titus 2:14. (4) Peculiar; Deuteronomy 14:2. (5) Provided; Deuteronomy 32:9. (6) Protected; 2 Samuel 7:23. (7) Praising; Psalm 144:15.

2. The covenant proved; 2 Chronicles 23:17. Cp Hosea 14:8; 2 Corinthians 7:1.

3. The covenant enjoyed; 2 Chronicles 23:18. Sacrifice, rejoicing, singing. Cp. Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16; Psalm 119:54; Isaiah 55:3. Are you amongst the “Lord’s People?”

V. The Restoration of the House of the Lord, 2 Chronicles 24:1-14.

1. What it stood for. God’s honour and dwelling place. The place of access, propitiation and blessing.

2. The voluntary contribution; vs. 7-14.

3. The happy result; v. 14. Communion, fellowship, prosperity.

VI. The Sad Backsliding; vs. 15-26.

How different from man’s biographies that leave out all the faults and failings and magnify only the virtues!

1. The death of Jehoiada; vs. 15-18.

2. Sin and its effects; v. 18.

3. God’s desire; v. 19. Cp. Ezekiel 33:11. God is loath to enter into judgment with the sinner.

4. The martyrdom of Zechariah; vs. 20, 21. Cp. Matthew 23:35.

5. The death of Jehoash; vs. 22-27. Another case of one who started so well and ended so sadly. See 1 Corinthians 10:12; Hebrews 2:1-3.

VII. The Death of Elisha; 2 Kings 13:14-20. Once more God speaks to Israel through His aged servant. Though Israel knew it not, their national end was near, but God spared Elisha the sight of its captivity.

VIII. The Captivity of Israel; 2 Kings 17:6-18. Some of its lessons.

1. Great privileges brings great responsibilities; Luke 12:48.

2. The rejected Scriptures results in a foolish and rejected nation; 2 Kings 17:13-15.

3. Those who observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy; Jonah 2:8.

4. Whatever a man (or nation) soweth, that shall he also reap; Galatians 6:7.

5. The wages of sin is death; Romans 6:23.

Lesson 112: Isaiah’s Call And Commission
Isaiah 6
Golden Text: Isaiah 6:8

I. The Setting. See 2 Kings 15:1-7, 13; 2 Chronicles 26:1-23. Called Azariah and Uzziah.

1. Uzziah’s good beginning; 2 Chronicles 26:1-15. His zeal, fame, power, genius and piety.

2. His rash action; vs. 16-18. Note when. “Till he was strong.” Cp. 1 Samuel 15:17; Ezekiel 28:17; 1 Timothy 3:6; Proverbs 16:18. 2 Corinthians 12:9. John 15:5; Philippians 4:13.

3. His punishment; vs. 19-22.

II. The Vision; Isaiah 6:1-4. Note: It was a vision of Christ he saw. Cp. John 12:38-41. Note the contrast between Uzziah and Deity. The passing with the permanent; pollution with purity, mortality with immortality and gloom with glory.

1. Christ in His exaltation, “high.” Cp. John 17:5; 13:3; Hebrews 1:1-3; John 1:1, 2.

2. In His holiness, “holy.” Cp. Hebrews 7:26; 1 Peter 2:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21, etc.

3. The object of worship; vs. 2-4. Cp. Revelation 5:5-14.

III. The Confession; v. 5. This is always the result of a sight of the holiness of Deity. Cp. Job 40:4, 5; 42:5, 6; Daniel 10:7, 8; Luke 5:1-8; Revelation 1:12-17. His holiness reveals by contrast our sin and uncleanness. Note Isaiah’s 7 previous woes upon others; 3:9, 11; 5:8, 11, 20, 21, 22. The last “woe” is for himself as he realizes the holiness of God.

IV. The Cleansing; vs. 6, 7.

1. The basis of cleansing—the altar; Leviticus 17:11. On the ground of sacrifice and substitution; 1 John 1-7. There can be no cleansing apart from the “substitutionary sacrifice of Christ which He accomplished on the altar of Calvary’s cross; Romans 3:25.

2. The assurance—the word of God. Cp. Acts 13:38; 1 John 5:13.

3. The means—the touch. Contact with that which God has accepted, i.e., faith in Christ’s Person and His finished work. Cp. “Touched.” (1) Person for cleansing; Matthew 8:3. (2) Eyes to see; Matthew 9:29. (4) Ears to hear; Mark 7:33. (4) Lips to tell; Isaiah 6:7. (5) Hearts to follow. 1 Samuel 10:26. (6) Thigh for dependence upon God; Genesis 32:25. (7) Servant to strengthen; 1 Kings 19:7.

V. The Call and the Response; v. 8.

1. The need for the call—the condition of Israel. Cp. Isaiah 1:2-15. Cp. The condition of world today. Romans 3:10-19.

2. The equipment for it. (1) The personal experience with God in cleansing from sin; Isaiah 52:11. (2) A willingness to go. “Who will go?” God wants His people yielded to Him and their bodies presented to Him; Romans 12:1-4. Only thus are they fit to go for Him.

3. The response. Is it ours? Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 5:20; John 4:31-38; Acts 20:24.

VI. The Communion and Commission; vs. 9-12.

1. Its contents “Go and tell.” Cp. Luke 8:39.

2. Its consequence—“deaf ears and blind eyes.” Cp. “The Gospel for a witness.” Matthew 24:14. The results must be left to God.

Lesson 113: The Prince Of Peace
Isaiah 9:6, 7
Golden Text: Luke 2:11

1. His Incarnation. “Child … born.” Study its prophecy. See first mention; Genesis 3:15. This is the germ of prophecy. Cp. Genesis 12:2, 3; 15:5; 17:19; 21:12; 49:10; Deuteronomy 18:15, 18; 2 Samuel 7:12, 13; Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2.

2. Study its history. (1) The Annunciation; Luke 1:26-38. (2) The Exultation; Luke 1:46-55. (3) The Realization; Luke 2:1-16.

3. Study its mystery. Cp. 1 Timothy 3:16. It staggers the mind with its immensity. The eternal God clothed with humanity! Cp. Philippians 2:5-8.

4. Study its necessity. Why was the incarnation essential? Cp. Hebrews 2:11; Romans 5:19; Job 9:33; 1 Timothy 2:5. Between Deity and humanity there was a great gulf. Christ by His incarnation bridged it. As God, He laid His hands on the throne and fulfilled all its holy requirements; as Man, He places His hands upon humanity and meets its needs.

II. His Manifestation. “Unto us a Son is given.” Note, not Born. “The child born”—incarnation. “The Son given”—manifestation. He always and eternally was. He did not enter into existence at His birth, but merely a new form of existence—He is the eternal pre-existent One. Cp. John 1:1-4: Colossians 1:16, 17. The
“Jehovah” of the Old Testament is the “Jesus” of the New Testament; Hebrews 9:26; 1 Peter 1:20. See also Isaiah 6:5; and cp. John 12:41.

III. His Occupation. “The government shall be upon His shoulders.” He is to be King of Kings and Lord of Lords; Revelation 17:14. Note: (1) The cross upon His shoulder—Substitution; John 19:17. (2) The sheep; Luke 15:5—Salvation. (3) The names of His people; Exodus 28:6-12. Cp. Hebrews 7:25—Security. (4) Government; Isaiah 9:6—Satisfaction. Is the government or control of your life upon His shoulders? Is He your Substitute, Saviour, Securer and Satisfier?

IV. His Designation. “Wonderful, Counsellor,” etc.

1. Wonderful Counsellor. See His counsel. Cp. Luke 4:18-22; John 3:1-16; 4:1-24; Revelation 3:15-23, etc.

2. Mighty God. The omnipotent Son of God, coequal and co-eternal with the Father and the Spirit. God the Son. All the attributes of Deity are His and displayed in the gospels. See His omnipotence, omniscience and omnipresence and immutability.

3. Father of Eternity. He ante-dates all things. By Him all things consist. Cp. Proverbs 8. He is the eternal, self-existent One, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last; the Alpha and Omega; Revelation 22:13; Colossians 1:16-19.

4. Prince of Peace. (1) He came to bring it; Luke 2:10-14. (2) He died to secure it; Colossians 1:20 (3) He rose to proclaim it; John 20:19, 21. 26. (4) He lives to impart it; Ephesians 2:14; Romans 5:1. (5) He intercedes to maintain it; John 14:27. (6) He shall come again to spread it through all the earth; Revelation 11:15; 20:4; Isaiah 11:6-10. (7) In the meanwhile Christians are to preach it, and enjoy it; Acts 10:36; Ephesians 4:3.

Lesson 114: The Gospel In The Old Testament
Isaiah 52:12—63:12
Golden Text: Isaiah 53:11

I. His Annuniciation; 52:13. “Behold my Servant.” The Lord Jesus is the Servant of Jehovah. His perfect

1. Fitness and devotion; Hebrews 10:7-9.

2. Service; John 6:38; 17:4; 4:34.

3. Love and obedience; John 8:29; 10:17; Hebrews 12:2: John 15:9, 10; 17:24; Philippians 2:5-9.

II. His Incarnation; 1, 2.

1. The unbelief of the ungodly; v. 1. Cp. Matthew 13:54-58. Cp. 1 Tim 3:16. The mystery and miracle of the incarnation of the Son of God.

2. The growth of the Lord Jesus; v. 2. Cp. Luke 2:40, 52. His perfect humanity and perfect Deity, perfectly expressed. He was both the Root and the Offspring- of David! He was David’s Son and David’s Lord.

III. His Humiliation; v. 3.

1. Despised in the world He had made. Cp. John 1:10; 7:52.

2. Rejected. Note why. John 3:19; 15:22-25.

3. Sorrowful. Cp. Luke 19:41; John 11:35; Matthew 23:37-39; Hebrews 2:18; 4:15. “In all the grief that fills the heart, the Man of sorrows had

IV. His Propitiation; vs. 4-9. What wonderful verses are these! Note some of His titles.

1. The Bearer of Grief; v. 4.

2. The Divine Substitute; v. 5; 1 Corinthians 15:3; Romans 5:6, etc.

3. The Burden Bearer; v. 6. Note the two “alls.” Cp. 1 John 1:29. The “all” of the sinner and the “all” of the Saviour. 1 John 2:2.

4. The Silent Sufferer; v. 7; John 19:9; Matthew 26:63, etc.

5. The Crucified Redeemer, v. 8. “Cut off” but note why.

6. The Sinless Saviour, v. 9. How wonderfully all this was fulfilled 700 years after!

V. His Resurrection; v. 10. God “well pleased” with

1. Christ’s life; Matthew 3:16.

2. His obedience unto death; Isaiah 53:10.

3. Christ on the throne; Colossians 1:19.

4. Christ in the gospel; 1 Corinthians 1:21.

5. Christ in the eternal state; Psalm 16:11. Are you pleased with Him? Cp. 1 Peter 1:8.

VI. His Satisfactions v. 11. Cp. Hebrews 12:2. “The joy before Him.”

1. Of doing the Father’s will; Psalm 40:8.

2. Of seeing justified sinners, saved by His grace and sounding His praises. Are you one? Romans 5:1; 3:24-26.

3. Of presenting His blood bought Church faultless before the Father; Jude 24, 25; Ephesians 5: 25-27, etc.

VII. His Glorification; v. 12. See Revelation 1:12-18; 5:5-14. “The Lamb is all the glory in Immanuel’s Land.” Philippians 2:9-11. What glorious satisfaction shall be His in that day, when all creation, above and below, shall join to hail Him as the pre-eminent One! Every believer, in that day, shall share in His glory. Romans 8:17, 18.

Lesson 115: Hezekiah’s Good Reign
2 Kings 18-20; 2 Chronicles 29:1-28
Golden Text: Psalm 40:14

I. The Good Beginning; 18:1-8.

1. The destruction of idols; vs. 1-4. Note how he dealt with the brazen serpent and what he called it.

2. His personal godliness; vs. 5, 6. (1) “He trusted in the Lord.” Cp. Isaiah 12:2, 3; Psalms 18:30; 34:22; 37:3-7. The secret of perpetual joy and peace. (2) He clave to the Lord— continuance. Cp. Acts 11:23. Abiding in Christ is the secret of communion and fruit. John 15:l-7.

3. The happy result; vs. 7, 8. Prosperity and victory. Cp. 1 Timothy 4:8; Joshua 1:8; 3 John 2.

II. The Threatening Enemy; 18:13—19:37.

1. The blasphemy of Rabshakeh; vs. 18-25, 28-37. Wherever there is godliness there will be opposition. Cp. Ephesians 6:11-18. Note his ridicule of God’s power; v. 22 and blasphemy, v. 25.

2. The God honoring remedy; 19:1-7. Humility and prayer and its answer. Cp. Psalms 91:1-16; 46:1.

3. The second summons; vs. 8-13. As sacrilegious as the first.

4. The prayer of Hezekiah; vs. 14-19. “He spread it before the Lord.” Its reverence, directness and faith. The honor of Jehovah was uppermost. Matthew 6:6; Isaiah 40:28-31.

5. God’s answer through Isaiah; vs. 20-34. God the Governor amongst the nations. Psalm 22:28.

6. The great deliverance; vs. 35:37. Salvation Is of the Lord. “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly.” 2 Peter 2:9.

III. Hezekiah’s Sickness and Recovery; 20:1-19.

1. His sickness and the message; v. 1. Suppose this message came to us!

2. His prayer and its answer and sign; vs. 2-11. Note the means employed in his cure; v. 7. Faith does not eliminate the necessity for God-provided remedies.

3. His folly; vs. 12-19.

IV. The Revival Under Hezekiah. 2 Chronicles 29:1-27, or How the song began.

1. Ruin: vs. 1-9. What a picture of the Christian out of touch with God! (1) No access; 28:24; 29:7. Doors shut. (2) No light; v. 7. A shut Bible means a shut heaven; Psalm 119:105, 129. (3) No incense; v. 7. No prayer; Revelation 8:4. No worship. (4) No offerings; v. 7. No appreciation of the work of Christ. (5) No peace; 28:22. (6) No joy; v. 8. “Wrath;” Isaiah 57:20. No song, only a wail and dirge. (7) No blessing; vs. 4-6.

2. Revival; 29:3. (1) Began at door, v. 3. Back to the beginning. (2) Separation from evil; vs. 5, 15. (3) Judgment of evil; v. 16. (4) Restoration of God’s order: vs. 18, 19. (5) The offerings: vs. 20-27. (6) The acceptance; vs. 27. Cp. Consumed by the fire. (7) The Song; v. 27. Cp. Psalm 40:1-3.

3. Result: vs. 28-31. (1) Worship; vs. 28, 29. (2) Presentation; v. 31. Cp. Romans 12:1, 2, etc.

Lesson 116: Manasseh And Josiah
2 Kings 21-22; 2 Chronicles 33-34
Golden Text: 2 Peter 3:9

I. The Reign of Manasseh; 2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33. The biography of a soul.

1. Ruin. 2 Chronicles 33. What a fearful category of the capability of the human heart! See Mark 7:21; Jeremiah 17:9. Idolatry; v. 3. Blasphemy; vs. 4, 5, 7. Witchcraft and spiritism; v. 8. Cp. Modern cults, etc.

2. Rejection; v. 10. Added to his sins was his rejection of God’s word of rebuke. Does this describe you? Job 36:18; Ezek. 33:11; Isaiah 55:6, 7.

3. Result; v. 11. Punishment, bondage and slavery. Cp. Romans 1:18; 6:23; Psalm 107:10-12, 17.

4. Repentance; v. 12. Seen in his humiliation and confession. Cp. Luke 13:3; Luke 15:7, 10. Acts 17:30, 31; 20:21; Job 33:27-29. Repentance is a change of mind. Manasseh changed his mind about God, himself and his sins. Matthew 23:12. Have you? But for the book of Chronicles we should not have known of Manasseh’s repentance and restoration. The full story of the soul’s biography is not always known to us.

5. Restoration; v. 13. God delights in mercy and in saving the sinner. Cp. Psalms 51:1-13; 32:5; Hosea 11:9; John 3:16; 1 Timothy 2:3, 4; 2 Peter 3:9; Matthew 9:13; Luke 19:10. Note its effect on Manasseh. “He knew.”

6. Restitution; vs. 14, 15. He redeemed the time. Cp. Ephesians 5:16. His was the “godly repentance” of 2 Corinthians 7:8-11.

7. Rejoicing; v. 16. Romans 5:1-5, 11; 15:13; Psalm 51:8; 32:7.

II. The Reign of Josiah; 2 Chronicles 34.

1. His early piety; vs. 1-7. What an encouragement for workers amongst the young! Illust. Samuel, David, Daniel, Timothy, Jehoash, etc. Cp. Ecclesiastes 12:1; Proverbs 8:17; Matthew 18:3-10; 19:14. We are told that at eight years of age eighty percent of a person’s character is formed. Press home the importance and value of an early conversion. 2 Timothy 3:15.

2. The repairing of the House of the Lord; vs. 8-13. The restoration of communion with God. Josiah put first things first. Worship is the highest possible act the Christian can engage in. The Father is seeking for worshippers; John 4:23, 24.

3. The great discovery; vs. 14-22. (1) The sad condition—without the book of the law. Imagine this country without a Bible today! What would it mean? (2) The happy discovery. What a change! V. 14. (3) The wonderful result: vs. 19-22. (a) Enlightenment Cp. Psalm 119:130; John 12:46, 47; 15:22. (b) Conviction; vs. 19-21. It revealed their sin and need of cleansing. Cp. Hebrews 4:12. Where should the word of God be found now? Psalm 119:11. Here is the best book in the world, in the best place in the world, for the best reason in the world!

4. The message; vs. 23-28. (1) Of judgment on the despisers; vs. 23-25. (2) Of mercy upon the humble and obedient; vs. 26-28.

5. The covenant; vs. 29-33. Has the message of God’s word had this effect upon you?

Lesson 117: The Solemn Passover
2 Kings 23:1-28; 2 Chronicles 35
Golden Text: Psalm 111:10

I. The Authority For It. 1 Kings 23:1, 2. The word of the Lord. This alone was sufficient for Josiah in spite of its non-observance for many years. The word of God is an all sufficient guide in all things and the final authority. It is

1. Light to shine; Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 6:23.

2. Seed to grow; 1 Peter 1:23.

3. A mirror to reveal; James 1:23.

4. A sword to pierce and discern; Hebrews 4:12.

5. Fire to burn and test; Jeremiah 23:29.

6. Hammer to break; Jeremiah 23:29.

7. Milk to develop; 1 Peter 2:1, 2.

8. Meat to strengthen; Hebrews 5:14.

9. Honey for sweetness; Psalm 109:103.

10. Water to cleanse. Psalm 119:9; Ephesians 5:26, etc.

II. The Preparation For It. 1 Kings 23:3-20. A right attitude of soul with God. V. 3. “Covenant.” The mere observance without the right state of soul is hollow mockery. Cp. Isaiah 29:13; Matthew 15:8. The need of personal consecration. Romans 12:1, 2; 6:13; 2 Timothy 2:19-21.

1. A separation from all known evil; vs. 4-20. 2 Corinthians 6:14—7:1. (1) False worship removed; v. 4. “Idols.” Cp. Modern idolatry. An idol is anything that displaces God. See Colossians 3:5; 1 Samuel 15:23; 1 John 5:21. (2) False doctrines put away; vs. 5-14. Cp. Ritualism, materialism, agnosticism, higher criticism, and other false cults. (3) False teachers judged; vs. 16, 19, 20. Cp. Revelation 2:2; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; 1 Timothy 4:1-7; 2 Timothy 4:3-5; 2 Peter 2.

2. God given His rightful place. 2 Chronicles 35:3. The ark restored to the sanctuary. Cp. 1 Peter 3:15.

3. The order of God’s word followed; v. 4—Tradition is no guide. The “Thus saith the Lord” must be our authority.

III. The Significance of It. The Passover typical of God’s way of salvation. Cp. Exodus 12.

1. Sin. The people’s condition. (1) Slaves; Exodus 1:11. Cp. Luke 16:13; Romans 6:16. (2) Under judgment of God. Exodus 12:12; Romans 1:18; John 3:36, etc.

2. Salvation. (1) Revealed; Exodus 12:1-3; John 3:16. (2) Provided by God; v. 3. John 1:29.

3. Substitution. “Blood.” Exodus 12:6, 7; Romans 3:24-26; 1 Peter 1:18.

4. Security; Exodus 12:13. The word of God. Cp. John 5:24; 1 John 5:15, etc.

5. Separation from Egypt. Ex. 12:37; John 17:14.

IV. The Celebration of It. 2 Chronicles 35:7-19. Describe the recovery of the truths concerning the church, the Lord’s Supper, baptism, the second coming, etc., from beneath the rubbish caused by tradition, ritualism and denominationalism through the years since these truths were first given.

1. A willing celebration; v. 8. It was not a matter of compulsion but of glad free will

2. An obedient celebration; v. 12. It was determined by what was written in God’s word.

3. A reverent celebration; v. 13. There was no lightness or frivolity.

4. A joyous celebration; vs. 14-18. Obedience brings pleasure to God and joy to the believer.