A Bible Study, One Verse at a Time: Blessed

Showing posts with label Blessed. Show all posts

Friday, March 16, 2012

Psalm 1: Final thoughts and application

Today we conclude our look at Psalm 1 with some final thoughts and applications.

You can find the initial overview and observations to Psalm 1, at this link.

And here is where you can find the verse overviews of Psa 1:1-2 Psa 1:3 Psa 1:4 and Psa 1:5-6

For any person who does not have easy access to Bible software you can look up all cross references listed in this blog at the Bible Gateway website. It is easy and quick to use and you can choose from many different translations. The cross references are a big part of any Bible Study that we may undertake!

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; (2) but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. (3) He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. (4) The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. (5) Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; (6) for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

(Psalms 1:1-6 ESV)

Biblical principles

Given the original context, what does the text mean? -- In this case the text means simply what it says. Blessed is the man who focuses (meditates) on God's law and delights in that law. The blessed man will not and does not keep the ways of the wicked. And the wicked shall be separated from the righteous at the judgment and shall perish.
What fundamental Universal truths are presented in this passage? -- See above.
What issues in our own culture and my own situation does this truth address? -- It is often very difficult in todays' world to keep our focus on God and His word. We become distracted by work, play, worries of our lives ( Mat_6:25-34 ) and keeping up with the Joneses!!
What are the implications when applied to my life and the world around me? -- See above. I need to try harder to stay focused on what is most important: God and His word!!
What changes does it require? -- Maybe not too many changes as I am doing all right at the moment. (or so I thought when I originally wrote this!) But it does require diligence (and here is where I slipped a bit!!) and prayer to continue on the correct path and to continue to improve!
What values does it reinforce? What difference does it make? -- It makes all the difference. The psalms open up with a direct plan on how to be close to God! (Psa 2:1-12 contains what seems like an obvious reference to Jesus!! Thus making the first two Psalm exceedingly important, as faith in Jesus is the most important thing to a right relationship with God! A person who meditates on God's word will know that. Interesting!!)

Application

Is there an example to follow? -- Yes! Follow the example of the blessed man! Delight in the law of the Lord! Meditate on it day and night.
Is there a sin to avoid? -- Yes! Avoid the ways and paths of the sinners and the wicked.
Is there a promise to Claim? -- Yes! If we do as directed in Psa 1:2 we will prosper and yield fruit. and the Lord will know (watch over) our way!
Is there a command to obey? -- Yes! Meditate on God's law. Avoid the ways of the wicked.
Is there a condition to meet? -- I would say yes. Same as the command.
Is there a verse to memorize? -- Psa 1:1-2
Is there an error to mark? -- Yes! The error would be to congregate with the wicked.
Is there a challenge to face? -- Yes! It is often difficult to stay focused on God's word and make it a part of our daily life. (as I have found out for myself this past week!)

Application Summary

To continue to study God's word. To read God's word. To live as directed by God's word. To PRAY to God for direction and forgiveness! To desire to know God and His will for me and His ways!

Commentaries

Believer's Bible Commentary: Mentions that we will be in contact with the sinners through the cycle of daily life. We are even to be a friend to them but NOT to partner with them or to follow their ways.
Matthew Henry: Henry disagrees with above sentiment from the Believer's Bible Commentary. Henry seems to think that no real association with the sinners is to take place,
My thoughts on the slight disagreement in commentaries: I get what Henry is saying to an extent! BUT I also know that in my life God has placed people who have been a help, been loving, and helped me heal who are not followers of Jesus. If I had not been friends with these people I don't know where I might be. Again I think it is up to us to trust God's plan and will, and to use prayer as our discernment on who we are friends with.

Final Thoughts

This does bring up a weakness of mine! Although I am getting SO MUCH better at meditating on and delighting in God's Word and am getting SO MUCH better at following God's command and living cleaner (with ALL thanks to God for that!) I still have not picked a Church. I have no one to congregate with. I need to think on this. This may be an application that God wants me to make! (I am sure of it) It is time for me to find a congregation. Being in a congregation of people who also follow Jesus Christ and are all focused on God will give me strength, will make me accountable, will help bring me closer to God because I will be doing more of what He wants me to do!!

My next study will be on the Ten Commandments, with some surrounding context as well.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Psalm 1, Today's verses are Psalm 1:5-6

Today we continue our verse by verse look into Psalm 1 by taking a look at Psalms 1:5-6 You can find the initial overview and observations to Psalm 1, at this link.

And here is where you can find the verse overviews of Psa 1:1-2 Psa 1:3 and Psa 1:4

Psalms 1:5-6

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.
(Psalms 1:5-6 ESV)

Observations

Psa_1:5-6 are a conclusion. (THEREFORE!) The Psalm concludes with two more contrasts of the wicked and the blessed man, called righteous in these two verses. The main characters are the sinners, the righteous and God Himself. The wicked will not STAND in the judgment or in the congregation of the righteous. God knows the righteous! The wicked will perish. (an expression of time--there IS no expression of time applied to the righteous in this verse. This relates to the comparison of the never withering leaf in Psa 1:3) (grammatical considerations are dealt with in the preceding paragraph)

My Questions:

Is stand a further continuation of the tree comparison? (NO not really) What exactly does the psalmist mean by "the Lord knows the way of the righteous?" Or is the ESV translation of knows not as accurate as some other translations? How does this compare exactly to the wicked perishing?

Things emphasized:

In no uncertain terms will the wicked be allowed to stand with the righteous. God will not allow it. An interesting contrast is that the Blessed man chooses to follow God and chooses not to follow the sinners, while at the judgment the sinners are no longer given a choice because they have already made their choice. Or so it would seem... Or am I being too judgmental with that comment??

Important terms

Wicked:

See notes to Psa_1:1

stand:

E Sword concordance search---- Num 30:4-12 Jos 7:12-13 Job 19:25 Psa 24:3 Psa 89:43 Psa 94:16 Pro 19:21 Isa 7:7 Isa 8:10 Isa 14:24 Isa 28:18 Jer 44:28 Jer 44:29
Definition--- (differs from Hebrew word found in Psa 1:1 ) to arise to stand up! The physical action of rising up or the resultant end of that action. Mounce states that this Hebrew word is often used with reference to military battle and in this verse it is used to signify "to survive or continue". (see cross references above) I have also noticed that when used as "to survive or continue", it most often refers to God allowing something to continue or not.

The judgement:

E Sword concordance search----- Exo 28:15 Exo 28:29 Exo 28:30 Lev 19:15 Jos 20:6 Psa 7:6 Psa 9:7 Psa 9:16 Psa 76:9 Psa 94:15 Isa 5:16 Isa 54:17 Isa 66:16 Jer 25:31 Dan 7:26 Mat 10:15 Joh 5:22 Joh 5:30 Joh 8:16 Rom 2:2 Rom 2:3 2Co 5:10 Heb 6:2 Heb 10:27 1Pe 4:17 2Pe 2:9 1Jn 4:17 Jud 1:15
Definition---- a judgment or legal decision.

Sinners:

See notes to Psa 1:1

Righteous:

E Sword concordance search----- Gen 6:9 Gen 7:1 Gen 18:23-28 Deu 4:8 Psa 5:12 Psa 7:11 Psa 34:15 Psa 34:19 Psa 37:29 Pro 12:26 Isa 3:10 Jer 33:15 Mat 13:43 Mat 13:49 Gal 3:11 Jas 5:16 1Jn 3:7
Defininition----- an adjective meaning just. Someone is considered to be righteous because of conformity to a given standard. In this verse (and often in the Bible) the righteous one is the one who is conforming to God's standard.

the way:

See notes to Psa_1:1

Other cross references

Ecc 3:17 Psa 146:8 Psa 37:3-5 Mat 7:14 Dan 12:13 Job 23:10 Nah 1:7 Joh 10:14 Joh 10:27 Rev 2:2 Rom 8:29 Isa 26:7 Psa 145:20

Answers to my questions above.:

The Lord knowing the way of the righteous (most likely) means that since the blessed man meditates on God's law day and night (and that means having accepted His Son Jesus Christ as our Savior!) then God acknowledges that person. The wicked perish because they have not acknowledged God's will so He does not acknowledge them and they are then separated at the judgment. I am interpreting a bit based on prior study.

Summary

These two verses conclude the poem. The wicked will not stand nor will they be allowed to congregate with the righteous. (remember from Psa 1:4 that the wicked have been driven away like chaff!) The Lord knows (watches over) the way (path) of the righteous (those who conform to His will which as described here is to meditate on His law day and night--this is a large subject). The wicked will perish, the poem makes no mention of the righteous ending! For they (the blessed or righteous) will prosper. ( Psa 1:3 )

Friday, March 2, 2012

Psalms 1, Today's Verse is Psalms 1:4

Today we continue our verse by verse look into Psalm 1 by taking a look at Psalms 1:4 You can find the initial overview and observations to Psalm 1, at this link.

And here is where you can find the verse overviews of Psa 1:1-2 and Psa 1:3

Psalm 1:4

The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away.

(Psalms 1:4 ESV)

Observations

Psa 1:4 is a description of the negatives that the wicked are likely to encounter. The main character is the wicked man. (although the Hebrew word for wind used in the text also insinuates that God is a main character in this text!) It is also continues the comparison to the blessed man by contrasting the wicked to the description of the blessed man in Psa_1:3 The wicked are not permanent as they are eventually blown away. (an abstract expression of time) It continues the contrast of the wicked and righteous (blessed man).

My Questions:

None really as this is fairly cut and dry. The blessed man is the tree with roots who stands firm while the wicked have no roots and are easily blown away and discarded. Is wind a metaphor for spirit?? (YES) Related to the parable of the planting seeds?? (YES) Or the building of the houses? (YES)

Thing emphasized:

The sinners have no staying power. They are separated (by the wind)

Things alike:

The wicked are LIKE the chaff that is driven away.

Grammatical considerations:

ARE. The wicked are! Meaning this is what will happen to them.

Important Terms

All definitions were culled from the Complete Word Study Dictionary from AMG Publisher, Vine's Expository Dictionary and/or

Mounce's Complete Expository Dictionary.

Wicked:

see notes to Psa_1:1

Chaff:

E Sword concordance search---- Exo 15:7 Job 13:25 Job 21:18 Psa 83:13 Psa 35:5 Isa 17:13 Isa 29:5 Mat 3:12 Luk 3:17
Definition---- the fine pieces of grain given to animal as fodder, figuratively indicating what is useless or worthless. Another thought here is that the wicked are left unprotected from the wind. Either way chaff indicates something that is very much expendable.

wind:

E Sword concordance search----- Gen 8:1 Exo 10:13 Exo 14:21 Exo 15:10 Num 11:31 2Sa 22:11 Job 1:19 Psa 18:10 Psa 35:5 Isa 27:8 Isa 32:2 Isa 41:16 Eze 17:10
Definition---- spirit, wind, breath. The word is often used to refer to the Spirit of God. (or sometimes God's actions such as in Exo 10:13 or Gen 8:1 )

drives away:

E Sword concordance search---- Psa 68:2 Pro 14:32 Isa 19:7 Hos 13:3
definition----- to drive away or to be driven about. Blow something away etc.

Other relevant cross references:

Chaff: Jer 23:28 Dan 2:35
Wind: Joh 3:8 Eph 4:14 Amo 4:13 Act 2:2

Summary

This verse continues contrasting the blessed man and the wicked. (a main theme of the entire Psalm!) In Psa_1:3 the blessed man is called a tree planted by water who will yield fruit and prosper. Now in Psa_1:4 we are told the wicked are not like the blessed man in this respect. The wicked are like chaff (unneeded, expendable) and are driven away (scattered, discarded) by the wind. And the particular Hebrew word for wind that was used in the Psalm is used to refer to the Spirit of God! God Himself will discard the wicked and drive them away. This is a direct consequence of the wicked NOT delighting in the law (instructions) of the Lord and for NOT meditating on it day and night!

Monday, February 27, 2012

Psalms 1, Today's verse is Psalms 1:3

Today we continue our verse by verse look into Psalm 1 by taking a look at Psalms 1:3 You can find the initial overview and observations to Psalm 1, at this link.

And here is where you can find the verse overviews of Psa 1:1-2

Psalm 1:3

He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

(Psalms 1:3 ESV)

Observations:

The main character in Psa 1:3 is the blessed man. This is a further description and development of the positives of the blessed man (as described in Psa_1:1-2 ) who studies and follows God's law (Word, teaching, instructions). It also continues the contrast (continued in Psa 1:4 ) of the wicked to the blessed man by comparing (in a positive manner) the blessed man to a tree that yields fruit in its season (a seemingly important expression of time?), and whose leaf does not wither. (this is also an expression of time---A time that does not end as the leaf does NOT wither) And as a summation the blessed man prospers in all that he does.

My Questions:

Does planted mean rooted? Standing firm? And what does the psalmist mean by "yields its fruit in its season? And how is prosper used? I remember something about that from Joshua!!

Things emphasized:

The "success", "prosperity", good fortune of the blessed man!

Things alike:

The blessed man is a like a tree planted near an essential source of energy (streams of water), and that yields fruit in its season and whose leaf does not wither. (never ends?!)

Grammatical considerations:

Will! An expression of time. Future and evermore? Like! Direct comparison in this metaphor. And! Used twice. To show that the blessed man is not just planted by the source of energy but will also yield fruit, not whither and prosper in whatever he does.

Terms

tree:

ESword concordance search---- Gen 1:29 Gen 2:9 Gen 2:16-17 Job 14:7 Psa 52:8 Pro 3:18 Pro 11:30 Pro 13:12 Psa 92:12 Jer 17:8 Mat 7:17-19 Mat 12:33 Luk 6:43-44 Rev 2:7
Definition---- refers to trees of all kinds.

planted:

ESword concordance search---- Psa 92:13 Eze 17:8 Eze 17:10 Eze 19:10 Eze 19:1 Hos 9:13 Jer 17:8 1Co 3:6 Mat 13:3-9 Mat 13:19-23 Mat 15:10-14
Definition---a verb meaning to plant and/or cultivate a seed or seedling in the ground so that it may grow.

streams:

ESword concordance search---- Eze 34:13 Jer 31:9 Isa 35:6
Definition---- any abundant flow of water.

water:

ESword concordance search---- Joh 4:14 Joh 7:37-39 Rev 21:6 Isa 12:3 Isa 49:10 Eze 36:25 Isa 55:1 Isa 44:4

yields:

ESword concordance search----- Pro12:12
Definition---- This verb means to give or to place. It is translated many different ways.

fruit:

ESword concordance search----- Mat_7:17-19 Joh_15:4-5
Definition---- the results of one's deeds or actions. (this symbolic meaning is OFTEN used in poetry.

in it's season:

Definition------ basically means time. And has many inferences depending on the context.

Other cross references:

Isa 3:10 Gen 39:3 Gen 39:23 Jos 1:7-8 Pro 12:12 Gal 5:22 Col 2:7 Heb 13:15 Psa 104:19 Dan 2:21 Psa 128:1-2

Answers to my questions above:

Planted does mean rooted or firmly rooted. (rooted in God's word..even planted by God Himself (see Mat_15:13 )
The "in its season" remark is vague and I think can be best answered by Joh 21:22 as we should follow Jesus and follow God's will and we will then do what we He has planned for us at the right time.
Prosper can mean succeed, be victorious etc. etc.

Summary

Fairly cut and dry; The blessed man who meditates on God's law day and night will be rooted by the water (Jesus often referred to water Joh 4:14 Joh 7:38) A tree usually grows well by the water..an essential resource. This tree (the blessed man) will produce his fruit (the fruit he is supposed to bring forth) when it is time! ( Joh 21:22) In all that the blessed man does he will prosper because he is doing God's will (since he has been meditating on God's laws day and night!)

Cause: Meditating on God's law day and night AND THE effect: producing good fruit and prospering.

Friday, February 24, 2012

Psalm 1, Todays verses Psalm 1:1-2

Today we begin our verse by verse look into Psalm 1. You can find the initial overview and observations to Psalm 1, at this link.

Psalm 1:1

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;

(Psalms 1:1 ESV)

Psa_1:1-2 are the introductory thought of this entire poem.

The main characters are "the blessed man" (human) and God. The blessed man keeps company with God's Word day and night (an expression of time indicating ALWAYS) and thus keeps company with God. The blessed man does not align himself with sinners, scoffers or the wicked. This verse sets up the contrast between the wicked and the blessed man. Another interesting observation: The use of walk, stand and sit! Very descriptive. In no way or form does the blessed man follow the paths or ideas of the unrighteous!

My questions:

How is blessed used? As it is in the beatitudes?
Why walk, stand and sit?

Answers:

Blessed is a person's state of bliss because a superior (in this case, God Himself!) Has bestowed favor upon that person. And yes this seems very related to the Greek word blessed as used in the Beatitudes.
Walk, stand and sit are used to highlight that the blessed man should not and will not follow the ways of the wicked. Each word is descriptive and relevant to the words immediately following it. IE: sits..in the seat... of the scoffers................. sit=to dwell, or inhabit, seat=dwelling or abiding in a given location, scoffers=those who mock.

Verse Considerations

Things emphasized: The relationship of the blessed man to God's law (Word). In no uncertain terms (sit, stand, walk) is the blessed man to congregate with the sinners.
Grammatical considerations: IS!! Blessed is! Meaning now, constantly. the blessed man's delight IS the law of the Lord.

Important Terms

Blessed:

ESword Concordance Search --- Psa 2:12 Psa 32:1 Psa 32:2 Psa 33:12 Psa 34:8 Psa 40:4 Psa 41:1 Psa 94:12 Pro 8:34 Deu 33:29 Isa 30:18 Isa 56:1-2 Dan 12:12 Psa 89:15 Psa 84:5 Psa 119:1-2
Definition---- A masculine noun meaning a person's state of bliss. The particular Hebrew word used here is always used to refer to people and is never used to refer to God, Himself. Usually poetic and exclamatory! Vine exposits this to mean a state of prosperity or happiness (bliss might be a better English word) that comes when a superior bestows his favor on one. (In most passages the bestowing the favor is God, Himself unto a human or nation).

Walk in:

ESword Concordance Search --- Exo 16:4 Exo 18:20 Lev 18:3 Lev 26:3 Psa 26:11 Psa 56:13 Psa 78:10 Psa 81:13 Psa 119:3 Pro 2:20 Isa 2:5 Isa 8:11 Isa 30:21 Deu 28:9 Jer 6:16 Col 2:6 1Th 2:12 1Jn 1:7 1Jn 2:6
Definition-----A verb meaning to go or come or to walk. Often used metaphorically (as it is here) to speak of pathways of behavior!

Counsel:

ESword Concordance Search -- Deu 32:28 Jdg 20:7 2Sa 15:31 1Ki 12:8 2Ch 10:8 Job 12:13 Job 21:16 Job 38:2 Psa 20:4 Psa 33:10 Psa 33:11 Psa 107:11 Pro 1:25 Pro 19:21 Isa 11:2 Isa 28:29 Jer 32:17-19
Definition---- advice or a plan! Sometimes suggest a plot. Often used as a possession of God and the promised Messiah.

Wicked:

Definition -- guilty or in the wrong. Enemies of God and His people. Wicked are those who do not learn righteousness but instead pursue their wicked ways among the righteous. Isa_26:10 Isa_11:4
A legal term! People still living in sin and intent on continuing in this manner.

Stand in:

ESword Concordance Search --- Job 8:15 Psa 10:1 Psa 135:2 Pro 25:6 Deu 29:15 Jos 7:13 Joh 8:44 1Co 16:13 Eph 6:13 1Th 3:8 Jud 1:24
Definition------ to rise up, to take one's stand. taking a position. be immovable..(sometimes to serve)

path:

ESword Concordance Search -- Gen 3:24 Gen 6:12 Gen 18:19 Exo 18:20 Exo 23:20 Jos 1:8 Psa 1:6 Psa 32:8 Psa 119:14 Psa 119:27 Psa 119:32-33 Pro 4:14 Isa 8:8-12 Jer 6:16-17 Mat 7:13-14 Joh 14:16
Definition---- path, journey...path that is traveled physically but more often it is metaphorically to refer to the pathways of one's life.

Sinners:

Definition -- used to describe those who, by their actions, are under the wrath and judgment of God! Their influence is to be avoided. Pro_1:10

Sit in:

definition--- to dwell, inhabit, endure or "to stay".

Seat:

ESword Concordance Search---- 1Sa 20:18 1Sa 20:25 Job 29:7 Psa 107:32 Eze 8:3 Eze 28:2
Definition----a seat, habitation, dwelling. Remaining or abiding in a given location. Signifies a place to be seated.

Scoffers:

ESword Concordance Search----- Job 16:20 Pro 1:22 Pro 3:34 Pro 19:29 Isa 28:22 Hos 7:5 Pro 3:34
Definition---deride, make a mockery, mock. Or to boast so as to express utter contempt.

Other relevant cross references:

Rev 22:14 Psa 146:5 Jer 17:7 Mat 5:3-10 Luk 11:28 Psa 119:115 Psa 26:4-5 Joh 13:17 Pro 13:20 Eph 6:13 Pro 19:29 Psa 119:9 Eph 5:11 2Co 6:17 1Co 5:9 Pro 9:9 Heb 9:8

Summary

Lays out the first part of the description of the person (man) who is blessed (having favor bestowed upon them by God!). This person DOES not in anyway keep company with the sinners, wicked or scoffers. This person will NOT follow the wicked person's advice or behaviors, will NOT follow the path or way of the sinners and will NOT make a permanent habitat at the place of those who mock or boast with contempt!!

Psalm 1:2

but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.

(Psalms 1:2 ESV)

My question:

What does the Psalmist mean by meditate? How encompassing of a word is that? Does the blessed man study, read, or contemplate the law of God? Or does the blessed man do all three and more concerning the law of God!

Answers:

Meditate=ponder (and or mutter) it is encompassing in that the blessed man does it day and night. To ponder something could be to study it, read it, think about and finally one must live it (or speak it as the word also means to mutter)

Verse Considerations

Things emphasized: The relationship of the blessed man to God's law (Word).
Grammatical considerations: again the word IS. The blessed man's delight IS in the law of the LORD. This infers continual action. Always delighting in the law of the LORD. Day and Night! Again, always, continual action. The blessed man is always delighting in and always meditating on the law of the LORD.

Important Terms

Delight in:

ESword Concordance Search--- 1Sa 15:22 Job 22:26 Psa 16:3 Psa 119:35 Psa 119:47 Isa 58:2 Isa 58:13-14
Definition--- pleasure, desire. To incline toward something. (the root means "to bend"...)

Law:

ESword Concordance Search---- Exo 12:49 Exo 13:9 Exo 24:12 Lev 6:9 Lev 6:14 Lev 6:25
(MANY other occurrences in Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy as God is plainly setting down the law to Moses and the Jewish nation.)
As an aside, even though it is tedious, it is very important for us to read this law as it IS the standard by which God expects us to live and it IS the standard which only Jesus was able to fulfill!!)
Jos 1:7-8 Jos 8:31-32 Neh 8:8 Neh 8:14 Neh 8:18 Neh 9:3 Psa 19:7 Psa 37:31 Psa 40:8 Psa 94:12 Psa 119:1 (The entirety of Psalm 119 should be read, studied and meditated on with regards to delighting in God's law!)
Pro 28:7-8 Pro 29:18 Isa 2:3 Isa 42:21-24 Isa 51:7 Dan 9:13 Mal 4:4
And of course Paul's letter to the Romans is required reading with regards to Mosaic law and Christianity.
Definition---- instruction, direction or Law. The noun comes from the the Hebrew verb yarah which means to to teach and to instruct. Often uses to refer to the entire law of Moses and or the Law of the Lord. According to Vine's, this word in wisdom literature (as Psalms is considered), primarily signifies teaching, direction and instruction.

Meditate(s) (on):

ESword Concordance Search--- Jos 1:8 Psa 63:6 Psa 77:12 Psa 143:5 Isa 33:18
Definition---- to growl, groan, mutter, speak. When used figuratively: to meditate or to ponder. Found only 25 times in the OT. Possibly reflects the sighing and low sounds one may make while musing..at least as the ancients practiced it.

Day and Night:

ESword Concordance Search---- Gen 8:22 Exo 13:21 Lev 8:35 Deu 28:65-68 Jos 1:8 1Sa 19:24 1Sa 25:16 1Ki 8:59 Neh 4:22 Psa 74:16 Isa 27:3 Rev 14:11

Other cross references:

Luk 18:7 Psa 37:4 Psa 112:1 Mat 5:18 Rom 7:12 Psa 119:142 1Jn 3:24 Rev 22:14 1Jn 5:3 Jas 1:25

Summary

Continues the description of the blessed man as compared to the wicked or sinners from Psa_1:1.
Psa_1:1 described what the blessed man would not do while Psa_1:2 describes what the blessed man does do. He or she delights (takes pleasure in...inclines toward) in the law (commands..INSTRUCTION, direction and teaching) of the Lord! The blessed man will meditate (consider, ponder...mutter?) the Lord's law (instruction) DAY and Night...ie: at all times!!
Psa_1:1-2 are the cause (description) of the blessed man's characteristics. In Psa_1:3-4 we will see the effect of choosing to follow the Lord's law or to make one's place with the sinners!!

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Psalm 1, Initial Observations

Now that we have finished looking at Matthew 5:2-12 (The Beatitudes) I would like to start looking at Psalm 1. When I was studying Matt 5:2-12 and doing a word study on blessed, the concordance search eventually led me to Psalm 1 as the very first word in the Psalm is the word blessed!

Psalms 1:1-6 ESV

So it seemed a fitting section of Scripture for me to study, live with and meditate on after having spent so much time with The Beatitudes.

Before I post my initial observations I would like to mention that my "method" of Bible Study is evolving as I gain more experience and as I also check out other people's methods. Right before I started looking at Psalm 1, I had just finished Kay Arthur's, "How To Study the Bible for Yourself." A really good book that gave me some new ideas to add to the methods I had learned from "Living by the Book." So my initial observations will be formatted a bit differently for this series. (and since this series I have changed it a bit more, but more on that when it is relevant! ) So now we continue with Psalm 1, initial observations:

Observations

Type of literature:

The Psalms are poetry and are not "ordered" although there are some free standing clusters of related Psalms. (Ryken, p.235)
Poetry prefers figurative language over literal language.
Poetry is usually meditative and reflective, and each poem is usually unified around one central idea.General poem structure is: 1) Introduction, 2) Development, and 3) concluding note of resolution or closure. (Ryken, p. 240)
Verse type-Parallelsim, where the poet thinks in terms of pairs or triplets of lines. Either the 2nd and 3rd lines repeat the basic content of the first line in different images and words or the 2nd line completes the thought of the first line. (Ryken, p. 239)
Psalm 1 is Synthetic Parallelism, where the 2nd line completes the thought of the first line. (Ryken, p. 239)
Parallelism is based on symmetry and balance and is also meditative in that it forces us to think on an idea a 2nd or 3rd time. (Ryken, p.239)

(The preceding information on the type of Literature was found in a great book entitled, "Ryken's Bible Handbook." A wonderful source on literature in the Bible! Highly recommended!)

Background Information

Author and Intended Audience:

Most of the psalms are written by David. Psalm 1 is not directly attributed to him in the Scriptures.
The psalms were intended to be SONGS.. They were intended for an audience and intended to be SUNG with a musical instrument of some sort.

General Intent of the Psalms: (the following is from the ESV Literary Study Bible, also by Ryken):

give expression to the emotional and reflective side of religious experience
express truth by means of images and figures of speech
package the content in highly artistic poetry, so that the beauty of expression is an important part of the total effect
do things with words that we do not ordinarily do with them (seen chiefly in the use of figurative language)
be truthful to human experience and portray its nuances accurately
exalt God and his creation
provide the materials for private and public worship (including worship in song)
record human responses to God and the experiences of life
showcase literary beauty
Also meant to show the nature of God!

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. (Psalms 1:1-2 ESV)

Psa_1:1-2 are the introductory thought of this poem. The main characters are "the blessed man" (human) and God. The blessed man keeps company with God's Word day and night (an expression of time indicating ALWAYS) and thus keeps company with God. The blessed man does not align himself with sinners, scoffers or the wicked. This verse sets up the contrast between the wicked and the blessed man. Another interesting observation: The use of walk, stand and sit! Very descriptive. In no way, shape or form does the blessed man follow the paths or ideas of the unrighteous!

Key words: Blessed, delight, law, meditate, walk-counsel, stand-way, sits-seat

My question: How is blessed used? As it is in the beatitudes? Why walk, stand and sit?

Things emphasized: The relationship of the blessed man to God's law (Word). In no uncertain terms (sit, stand, walk) is the blessed man to congregate with the sinners.

Grammatical considerations: IS!! Blessed is! Meaning now, constantly. the blessed man's delight IS the law of the Lord. Meditates...tense = IS meditating, currently meditating always meditating.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

(Psalms 1:3 ESV)

The main character is Psa 1:3 is the blessed man. This is further description and development of the positives of the blessed man who studies and follows God's law (Word). It also continues the contrast of the wicked to the blessed man by comparing the blessed man to a tree that yields fruit in its season (a seemingly important expression of time), and whose leaf does not wither. (this is also an expression of time---A time that does not end as the leaf does NOT wither) And in summation, the blessed man prospers in all that he does.

Key words: tree, streams of water, yields, fruit, in its season, leaf, wither, all, prospers

My Question: Does planted mean rooted? Standing firm? And what does the psalmist mean by "yields its fruit in its season"? And how is prosper used? I remember something about that from Joshua!!

Things emphasized: The "success", "prosperity", good fortune of the blessed man!

The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away.

(Psalms 1:4 ESV)

Psa 1:4 is a description of the negatives that the wicked are likely to encounter. Main character is the wicked man. This is briefer! The wicked are not permanent as they are eventually blown away. (an abstract expression of time) It continues the contrast of the wicked and righteous (blessed man).

Key words: wicked, chaff, wind, drives

My Questions: None really as this is fairly cut and dry. The blessed man is the tree with roots who stands firm while the wicked have no roots and are easily blown away and discarded. Is wind a metaphor for spirit?? Related to the parable of the planting seeds?? Or the building of the houses?

Thing emphasized: The sinners have no staying power. They are separated (by the wind)

Grammatical considerations: ARE. The wicked are! Meaning this IS what will happen to them.

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

(Psalms 1:5-6 ESV)

Psa_1:5-6 are a conclusion. (THEREFORE!) The Psalm concludes with two more contrasts of the wicked and the blessed man (called righteous in these two verses). The main characters are the sinners, the righteous and God Himself. The wicked will not STAND in the coming judgment or in the congregation of the righteous. God knows the righteous! The wicked will perish. (an expression of time--there IS no expression of time applied to the righteous in this verse. This relates to the comparison of the never withering leaf in Psa 1:3)

Key Words: Therefore, wicked, stand, the judgment, sinners, congregation, righteous, God, knows!, way, persih

My Questions: Is stand a further continuation of the tree comparison? What exactly does the psalmist mean by "the Lord knows the way of the righteous?" Or is the ESV translation of knows not as accurate as some other translations? How does this compare exactly to the wicked perishing?

Things emphasized: In no uncertain terms will the wicked be allowed to stand with righteous. God will not allow it. An interesting contrast is that the Blessed man chooses to follow God and chooses not to follow the sinners, while at the judgment the sinners are no longer given a choice?

Textual Context

Psalm 2 describes the Son. It also states that all those who follow Him (the son) will be blessed. Further instructions related to Psalm 1. Although in general the psalms are not always related, I do find the ordering of these two Psalms very interesting and very instructive.

Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? (2) The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against his Anointed, saying, (3) "Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us." (4) He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision. (5) Then he will speak to them in his wrath, and terrify them in his fury, saying, (6) "As for me, I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill." (7) I will tell of the decree: The LORD said to me, "You are my Son; today I have begotten you. (8) Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. (9) You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel." (10) Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth. (11) Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. (12) Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.

(Psalms 2:1-12 ESV)

Next time we will begin our look at each individual verse.

Sunday, February 19, 2012

The Beatitudes-final thoughts and application

Today I end (for now anyway) our look at The Beatitudes, Matthew 5:2-12.

The initial observations of Matthew 5:2-12 can be found here, while an important word study on the term blessed can be found here. You can find the overviews of each verse at the following links:

Mat 5:2 Mat 5:3 Mat 5:4 Mat 5:5 Mat 5:6 Mat 5:7 Mat 5:8 Mat 5:9 Mat 5:10 Mat 5:11 Matt 5:12

Biblical Prinicples

1. What does the text mean given the original context?

This was Jesus' first public sermon/teaching. He describes to the listeners what someone who wants to be part of the kingdom of God will need to be like.

2. Fundamental Universal Truths?

To be in a right relationship with God one needs to be humble, meek, pure, hungering for righteousness and be ready for possible persecution. The rewards will be great.

3. What does this address in my own culture or even my own situation?

The beatitudes are all about keeping one's focus on God and one's relationship with God. Earthly matters need to be secondary to God. I need to remember that. Our culture tends to be very quick fix and earthly focused.

4. Reinforced values? Difference? Does it require a change?

The beatitudes reinforce most of what Jesus always says. He is always focused on His relationship with the Father and tells us to do the same. I don't know that it requires a full on change from me as much as a re-dedication and a redoubling of my efforts and focus!!
And it makes all the difference in the world!! I need to be forcused on God at all times! What He wants me to do, how He wants me to be, how He wants me to pray....those should be my concerns.
I need to know that I always need Him. I can't (and this has been proven over and over) get myself right without Him! And I WANT to be right with God. I WANT to be pure and meek and peaceful!

Application

1. An example to follow?

Yes! Jesus not only lays out the example, HE IS the example!

2. Sin to avoid?

Not in any certain words but it does seem we would want to avoid focusing on our own earthly concerns and our selfish desires.

3. Promise to claim?

YES! If we do or are the way Jesus shows us to be (poor in spirit or humble, mourning our own sinful nature, meek or non-resistant to God's will, truly hungering and seeking righteousness, merciful!, pure in heart, peacemakers, and are ready for possible persecution) then we would have the kingdom of God, be comforted, be satisfied, inherit the earth, receive mercy, and see God! In other words BLESSED!

4. Prayer to repeat?

Not specifically no

5. Command to obey

Jesus does not state the beatitudes as a command per se but more of a description. But as mentioned before, to be meek means to be non-resistant to God's will. That would insinuate someone who is following God's commands.

6. Condition to meet?

Yes! Each beatitude has a condition that must be met to be able to be in the state of blessedness.

7. Verse to memorize?

I don't think it would hurt to memorize any of the beatitudes.

8. An error to mark?

Not per se. The error would be, to not be as Jesus is telling us to be.

9. Challenge to face

YES! It is always a challenge NOT to be concerned with our earthly and daily toils and troubles and desires!!

But as Jesus says in Mat_6:25-34

"Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."
(Matthew 6:25-34)

My Application

To keep diving into God's Word so as to continue learning more of His will and commands. To post what I learn on this blog, pray that I am posting correctly, and to continually pray for discernment, wisdom, help and guidance!
To never lose sight of what is really important--God and my relationship with Him. I need to always know that I need Him to overcome my own weaknesses.

Thoughts from Commentaries

Believer's Bible Commentary:

On Mat_5:4 -- states that mourning: "..is an active sharing of the world's hurt and sin with Jesus. Therefore, it includes, not only sorrow for one's own sin, but also sorrow because of the world's appalling condition, it's rejection of the Savior, and the doom of those who refuse His mercy."

On Mat_5:7 : Here, Jesus is not referring to the mercy of salvation which God gives to a believing sinner; that mercy is not dependent on a person's being merciful—it is a free, unconditional gift. Rather the Lord is speaking of the daily mercy needed for Christian living and of mercy in that future day when one's works will be reviewed (1Co_3:12-15). If one has not been merciful, that person will not receive mercy; that is, one's rewards will decrease accordingly.

ESV Study Bible:

On Mat_5:4 : those who mourn. The spiritual, emotional, or financial loss resulting from sin should lead to mourning and a longing for God’s forgiveness and healing

Final Thoughts

As the Believer's Bible Commentary states, these Beatitudes were addressed to Jesus' followers. They are what He expects and what is to be expected. There is SO much to think upon. Blessed! A permanent state of relationship and closeness with God. Amazing. Humility, sorrow for sin, receiving and giving mercy. Making peace, helping to tell others about Christ. The possibility of persecution (in many forms).
But the state of blessedness is the thing. It is what we all should want and strive for.

Friday, February 17, 2012

The Beatitudes, Today's Verse is Matthew 5:12

Today we continue our verse by verse look at what is often referred to as The Beatitudes, Matthew 5:2-12. We will be looking at Matthew 5:12.

The overview of Matthew 5:2-12 can be found here, while an important word study on the term blessed can be found here. You can find the overviews of the previous verses in from Matthew 5:2-11 at the following links:

Mat 5:2 Mat 5:3 Mat 5:4 Mat 5:5 Mat 5:6 Mat 5:7 Mat 5:8 Mat 5:9 Mat 5:10 Mat 5:11

Matthew 5:12

"Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

(Matthew 5:12 ESV)

Important Terms

All definitions were culled from the Complete Word Study Dictionary from AMG Publisher, Vine's Expository Dictionary and/or Mounce's Complete Expository Dictionary.

Blessed:

see word study at this link.

Rejoice:

ESword Concordance Search--- Paul often uses the word rejoice when discussing our hope in God in Romans.And Jesus is also telling us to rejoice because we are blessed (see word study on Blessed in topic notes) if we follow Him! This state of blessedness is a permanent state based on our relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ. If we are in a right relationship with God this state of blessedness exists regardless of our earthly circumstances.
Definition--- To be glad. In this case an absolute sense of gladness. (Jesus has been victorious!) Opposite of mourning! A constant state (according to Mounce) because of our relationship to Jesus. In fact the first use of the Greek work in the NT is when the Magi see the star that leads them to baby Jesus. Mat_2:9-10
Other important cross references--- Joh 14:27 Isa 25:9 Joh 4:14 Rom 8:35-39 Luk 6:23 Act 5:41 Rom 5:3 2Co 4:17 Php 2:17 Jas 1:2 1Pe 4:13 Php 4:4 1Th 5:16

Glad:

ESword Concordance Search--- Luk 6:23 Act 2:26 Rev 19:7 Php 2:17 Php 2:18 1Pe 4:13 Php 4:4 1Th 5:16
Definition-To show one's joy by leaping, showing ecstatic joy and delight. Leap for joy.
In this context emphasizes rejoice. Means to rejoice exceedingly.

reward:

ESword Concordance Search--- Mat 5:46 Mat 6:1 Mat 6:2 Mat 6:4 Mat 6:6 Mat 6:16 Mat 6:18 Mat 10:41-42 Mar 9:41 Luk 6:35 1Co 3:8 1Co 3:14 Col 3:24 Heb 10:35 2Jn 1:8 Rev 11:8 Rev 22:12 Heb 11:6 Psa 19:11 Psa 58:11 Pro 11:18 Isa 3:10 Gen 15:1
Definition--- wages, reward. In this context, to be received hereafter. (Jesus uses the words WILL BE..as it is a reward that is waiting for us). It is our reward in Heaven. Not an earthly reward.

persecuted:

Please see notes to Mat 5:10
Other Cross-References--- Mat 10:18-23 Mat 10:39 Mat 19:29 Mat 24:9 Mar 8:35 Mar 13:9 Mar 13:13 Luk 9:24 Luk 21:12 Luk 21:17 Act 9:16 Php 3:8 Rev 2:3

prophets:

Definition-One to whom and through whom God speaks. One whom speaks under divine influence and inspiration.
(ie: If people have been persecuting God's chosen messengers they will also persecute others who follow God's own son!)

Other Relevant Cross-References

Jas 5:10 Mat 5:17 Mat 7:12 Mat 11:13 Mat 13:17 Mat 23:31-34 Mat 23:37 Luk 11:49-50 Heb 1:1 1Pe 1:10 Act 7:52

Summary

Jesus is telling us that the persecution discussed in Mat_5:10-11 is nothing new as people have been persecuting the Lord's chosen (prophets) forever. But we are to look past the present persecution and look forward to our reward in heaven! It is is promised by Jesus and it will be great. As with the entirety of the beatitudes, Jesus is telling us to focus not on our earthly state or condition, but to instead focus on our spiritual state, our relationship with God, the Father. For if this relationship is right, then we will be in a state of blessedness regardless of our earthly circumstances.