Bad Leaders Gone Worse

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting August 10 to study further into Judges 9.  Let the weirdness begin!  The people of this chapter are amazingly bizarre and stupid.  There's really very little sense to what they do or why, at least on a strategic level.

Read through the rest of the chapter.  We left off at verse 21, so 22 through 57 is what remains.  We may not get through it all, but you should be familiar with it anyway.  At this point, the writer/editor of Judges slows back down, and goes into agonizing detail, and possible repetition.  Read the verses in several different versions.  There will be some plot elements repeated but with some possibly glaring inconsistencies.

Once you have gone through the passage on your own, read through some commentaries.  They will most likely ignore the inconsistent repetition, but not always.  Be sure to revise your notes and questions before going back through with the questions below.

• Verse 22 sounds a little like the "King Formula" found in Samuel and Kings, but is missing some things.  For an example look at 2 Kings 8:26, and see what's missing in Judges 9:22.  Why do you think the writer/editor would leave out those elements?
• God sends an "evil spirit".  We sort of dealt with this in Samuel with Saul, but there are other places where this seems to happen as well.  Why do you think God would operate using "evil spirits"?
• The "baals" of Shechem deal treacherously with Abimelech, by setting bandits in the hills to rob people passing by.  And it was told to Abimelech.  Why do you think it makes good sense to leaders of a city to encourage bandits around your city?
• Now another character, Gaal, shows up.  He has a lot in common with Abimelech in character.  They have a grape-harvest festival in the temple, and Gaal tells them to "Serve the men of Hamor, father of Shechem!"  But where is Gaal from?  How did he get to Shechem?
• Verse 28 is the first time we hear of Zebul.  It turns out he runs Shechem for Abimelech, or is at least supportive of Abimelech.  So, why do you think he's active on behalf of Abimelech now, but lets the "baals" of Shechem set ambushes in the hills before?  Doesn't he run the show there?
• Zebul sends messengers to Abimelech "deceitfully" or "secretly" or whatever.  If you have access to one, read verse 31 in the NLT or New Revised Standard Version.  If not, look at footnotes in any version except NIV.  You will need a commentary for this one.  If Zebul is being secretive, why do you think he would feel the need?
• Zebul gives Abimelech instruction about how to ambush the people of the city.  Why do you think Abimelech would need that?
• In verse 34, the people with Abimelech are in four companies.  In verse 41, they're in Arumah, and in verse 43, they come back and divide into 3 companies.  This is a confusing description of battle.  What do you think is happening, how do you work it out in your mind?
• One of the problems with the battle description in verses 31 through 49 is the leaving and returning. Why would Abimelech care if the people went out of the city about their business?
• How do you think the people going out into the fields in verse 42 is different from what was supposed to happen back up at verse 34 and following?
• How is it that Shechem can be razed and sowed with salt, but the "Tower of Shechem" and the stronghold of the temple of Baal Berith are missed?  The baals of Shechem aren't even in the city?  What do you think is going on here?
• The tactic used by Abimelech is to set the stronghold on fire, and it works.  All the people in the stronghold of the Temple of Baal Berith die in it.  Shechem is thoroughly destroyed, and by fire.  Considering the curse of Jotham, why do you think this is an important detail?
• Abimelech turns his attention to Thebez.  Why do you think he considered Thebez at all?
• This fight goes well, except for the stronghold.  Notice this stronghold is inside the city.  Abimelech tries the same tactic with this stronghold that he used on the temple in Shechem.  How do you think a woman was able to get a "millstone" to the roof (and why would she), and then throw it over the side, and actually hit Abimelech? 
• Abimelech is actually struck in the head, his skull crushed, and he still calls for his "bearer of stuff" to kill him.  What does that tell you about his head wound?
• If Abimelech's death reminds you of anyone else's, whose death does it remind you of?
• Notice the "ending formula" for kings is missing here as well.  Abimelech is not buried in the tomb of his father, as Gideon was.  And no son of Abimelech reigned in his place.  What do you think this missing piece (no succession linkage) might have meant to the initial audience of Judges in the time of the kings of Judah?
• The writer/editor of Judges concludes with the dissolution of the army after Abimelech's death, and with the tying together of Jotham's curse and the results of Shechem and Abimelech.  What do you think is the writer/editor's point for his 600 BC audience?

Consider the life and choices of Abimelech, but also of the leaders of Shechem.  Where have you made some wrong choices or followed some flawed leaders?  And, how can we keep this sort of stuff from happening to us?

The Plague of Accounting

This is the study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting May 21 to study 2 Samuel 24.  The LAST chapter!  Yes, we finally made it, and what a bizarre chapter with which to wrap up.  Here we see some of the oddest behavior of God recorded.  Theologians don't like this chapter, so don't be discouraged.  No one really understand it.  But we will slug our way through nonetheless!

Read through it several times.  It may be helpful with this one to read through fully with a few old and new translations.  Then pay close attention to the differences in how they build their statements.  Part of the differences you will see between translations of different time periods will be in theological views changing in the 20th Century (which is interesting).  So use a KJV and something else, but if you can find an American Standard Version (ASV - it's public domain - easy to find online for free), use that as well.

This is a good chapter to use with a Strong's either in print or online.  There are lots of places where words are difficult to understand, which you will see in the differences between translations.

You're going to have a ton of questions (everyone does).  So make sure to write them all down or you'll forget some.  The ones I have below are focused on stuff just below the surface, so that's why there's fewer of them, and none of them will be obvious or make much sense (kind of like the chapter as a whole).  Be sure to come up with your questions first, then look through whatever commentaries you have, and only then, look at the questions below.  DON'T START WITH THESE!  Please!

• The verb typically translated as 'incited' or 'moved' in verse 1 is clearly written to say that God caused David to do harm to the country.  Yes, God is angry with them, but what do you think the writer/editor is describing here?  What do you think God is doing?  This brings into question your assumptions about God and His character.
• The word translated as 'number', 'enroll', 'register' etc. is actually a very problematic generic word for 'visit'.  The reason for the visit is always left to context, and rarely with another 'helping descriptor' word. So it has tons of words it's translated into, with visit not even the most common.  You easily get the reason for the 'visit' here.  Why do you think this 'visit' is such a serious sin?
• Between the close of verse 10 and the beginning of verse 11 David obviously slept.  What do you think David thought about what he did and what this meant for his people?
• God offers David three options.  What do you think it says about David that he responded as he did?  
• How compassionate was three days of pestilence on the people of Israel?
• In verses 13 and 15, the word for the 'plague' or 'pestilence' is here. But in verses 21 and 25 the word is here.  How likely is it that the 'editor' used two different sources for the event?  What do you think that would do to contribute to making this difficult to understand?  Can you find any more of these?
• Consider the interaction between God and the 'angel' and David and the angel.  How do you imagine this happening?  Keep in mind David is in Jerusalem (or is he? - this is where the word for 'plague' changes).
• Read verse 23 in the KJV.  Remember that italicized words are ones added to help the translation make sense.  What if you read it without them, what do you think that means for this Arunah character?  Now what's going on?

There are plenty of other questions, so these are just additional ones you may not have caught or that most commentaries will simply ignore (some, not all).  It should be a lively discussion to wrap up 2 Samuel!

Mutual Admiration Society of Legendary Figures (MASLF for short)

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Study group meeting January 22 to study 2 Samuel 7.  This is an odd chapter.  Essentially, it's a lot of superlatives connecting rejection and mutual admiration.  God speaks highly of David, so highly it's amazing.  And David speaks highly of God, humbly and meek.  It's so sappy it's sick, and yet, there are vital elements we need to consider emulating in our own relationship with God.

Read through the chapter a few times.  Look for the word usage differences between versions, however many you have.  Jot them down, note the more interesting ones, think of the similarities and differences in word meaning.  The flow of 'plot' or action isn't difficult to follow, but consider that as well.  Who is involved here?  What do they do? Then consider what they say.

After reading through a few times, making your own notes, read through again using the questions below:

• The setting is that all is going well for David.  So why do you think it bothers him that God is still in a 'tabernacle'?
• David speaks to Nathan (who's last name seems to be 'prophet') about his concern and Nathan gives him the 'go ahead'.  Why do you think Nathan would do that?  Try and ignore the rest of the chapter, what do you think Nathan is thinking?
• God corrects Nathan that night in a dream.  The first thing God addresses is the whole, 'tent' issue.  What's God's point about the tent?  Why do you think God is happy in a tent at this time?
• God then recites what He has done for David, and continues into a statement that He will 'build the house of David'.  What do you think God is doing here?  Why do you think God would take the position of 'house-builder' with David, and not the 'house dweller'?
• Verse 9 is worded strangely, in that God will make David's name 'like that of the greatest in the land."  Who else is there?  Who are these 'greatest in the land' of whom God speaks?  What do you think it means for God to word this the way He does?
• God speaks of David's death and descendants.  In a sense, God does not establish David's throne, but Solomon's.  Why word it that way?
• Nathan passes on the word of God to David.  Then David goes and sits in the Lord's presence.  Where do you think David goes?  Why is David able to go there?
• Translations vary with verse 19, especially the ending.  Essentially, it says '...and this the 'torah' of adam (human as made from dust/dirt)...'  Think about that term, 'torah of adam'.  Considering what 'torah' usually means with Scripture, what do you think it's use here might mean?
• David claims that God has done for him what He did because of God's heart and own word.  What do you think David is saying by that?  What do you think he means?
• Verse 22 is what David concludes from what God has done, what he believes about God.  What do you think is interesting about this claim, considering he and his men capture idols from their enemies?
• David then recounts that the people of Israel are unique.  Other people's considered themselves to be 'chosen' by gods to do stuff.  What do you think or see here that makes Israel different?
• Verse 25 is the turn into David's conclusion.  David now asks for what God has promised.  What does this teach you about your relationship with God?  Remember the 'Favor Of God' lessons?  How does this relate?

This isn't a long chapter, but it's not short either.  There's a lot more in it than I went over in these questions.  Be sure to bring your notes and questions as we go through it together.

Worship Problems, From Head Gear to Meal Ettiquette

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Group meeting September 4 to study 1 Corinthians 11.  This is a somewhat weird chapter, at least it begins weird.  The first verse actually goes with chapter 10, the first issue is very confusing after 2,000 years of cultural change, and the second issue seems to refer to a practice of the Lord's Supper we no longer use, and no one seems to remember.

So, part of our problems will be how to apply these peculiarities to our life today.  If it's so difficult to see what Paul's talking about then, it will be extremely hard to come up with what we need to carry forward 2,000 years to our church life today.  I'm confident we'll find something, but it will be very interesting to discover what.

Read through the chapter in as many translations as you have.  I know this takes time, but there isn't a better practice that will bring linguistic issues to the forefront.  Even as I translate, I still have about 6 versions right there to look at while I'm doing it; it helps to spot inconsistencies or consistencies in translation.  Differences are good places to ask questions or make some further investigation, like with a Strong's.

After reading through several times, jotting down notes and questions, read through again with the questions below:

• Do you think Paul is being 'truthful' in verse 2?  Do they really 'remember him'?  Do they really hold firmly to traditions?  Has he given any examples of that either in previous chapters or in this one?
• Do you think there is a 'progression' in verse 3?  Does it go 'Christ, man, woman'? What about God?
• The word 'head' is used twice in verse 4, do you think Paul is referring to the man's literal head both times?  Why or why not? (you may need to think about this verse in light of verse 3 to answer)
• Not only is 'head' used twice in verse 5, but clearly a literal head is in view because of 'shaved', and 'shorn' in verse 6.  But do you think her literal head is 'disgraced'?  Why or why not? (again, consider verse 3 and then verse 7)
• Read Genesis 1:27.  What do you think of Paul's allusion to this verse in verse 7?  Do you think his argument makes sense as he applies Gen 1:27 to this issue of head-coverings?
• Verses 8 and 9 originate out of the Genesis 2 creation story (Gen 2:20-24).  What do you think of Paul's use of those verses here?
• From verses 7 through 9, Paul clearly refers to the creation account in Genesis.  Why do you think he would go there for this issue?
• You really need to look at verse 10 in at least a King James or New King James translation.  Then look at a New International or New American Standard version.  If you have it, look at the whole passage in the New Revised Standard.  All these translations work over verse 10 differently.  Note especially the 'italics' where a word is added that does not appear in the Greek text.  Read the verse through without the italicized words.  What do you think might be an alternative meaning after reading it that way?
• Do you think verses 11 and 12 soften Paul's stance on women in church, or do they simply reveal his true belief which lies behind what he writes here?  Why do you think any such distinction is important, both to us and to the church in Corinth?
• In verses 13 through 15, does Paul truly support his view of head covering with his point about hair?  Have you ever seen a picture of Jesus with short hair?  Any of the apostles?  Ever?  What do you think he's referring to here? 
• Since Roman customs seemed to include men with what we would consider 'short hair', it might be easy to say this is local for Corinth, a Roman colony.  But do you think we can really do that considering verse 16?
• Switching gears, he says, 'But in giving this instruction, I do not praise you...'  What instruction, the one he concluded, or the one coming up?  And if the one concluded, why would he start it with a statement that seems to imply he does praise them?  If the one coming up, then what do you make of the 'praise' in verse 2?
• Read 1 Corinthians 1:10 and 11.  Why do you think Paul would put 'in part' about his belief of 'divisions' when he's already covered some of them?  What might that mean for this particular issue?
• After criticizing their 'divisions' at the beginning of the letter, he now claims they are necessary?  What do you think he means by that?
• In their practice of the Lord's Supper, Paul says it has stopped being the Lord's Supper.  Why do you think that would be the case?
• Paul describes what they are doing in verses 21 and 22.  How would you describe what they are doing?  For instance, where do you think this happens?  Try, as best as you can, to remove your own 21st Century practice out of the mix, and imagine what is happening.
• Paul repeats for them what he had delivered to them when he was there.  Where does he say he got it?  What do you think he means by 'I received from the Lord...' since he wasn't a disciple of Jesus?
• Paul uses a word 'remembrance' in his quotes of Jesus in verses 24 and 25. Look it up here.  What do you think could be another or even better English word choice?
• What do you think about Paul's point of the Lord's Supper in verse 26?  Is that what it's all about to you?
• What is Paul's claim that to eat the Lord's Supper in an 'unworthy manner' is guilty of the body and blood of the Lord tied back to?  Why does that make you guilty of the body and blood of the Lord?
• Look up the word, 'examine' here.  What other English words would work well here?
• What do you think you should be looking for in this examination?
• What are the consequences for not examining yourself as you take the Lord's Supper?
• Considering the consequences, what do you make of verse 32?  Do you think Paul is saying it's for our own good when we die because we take the Lord's Supper unworthily?
• Paul applies this to the specific practice in Corinth in verses 33 and 34.  How do you think we should apply it in our worship?

That should keep us plenty busy Thursday.  I hope you can make good use of the extra day to study.  This is a perplexing chapter, so let's puzzle over it together!

The 'Where', and the 'Who' of First Corinthians

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study group meeting May 8, to study the first of Paul's letters to the church in Corinth.  On this night, we'll be studying the city itself, and a bit about the history of the region (Achaia, Peloponnesus, and Attica).  There is a map below to help with some of the places mentioned.

First, please review any introductions to the letter in a 'study Bible' or commentary you may have.  Second, please read these three articles (they're short) on Corinth on the Blue Letter Bible site.  Third, Google the city of Corinth.  Browse through what you can find, and make notes and jot down questions.

I have some questions I'd like you to consider.  The answers may be different depending on what you read, so read more than one thing.

• How many cities of Corinth were there?
• What people founded the original city?
• What was the principal quality every historian mentions about Corinth?
• The city had a 'citadel' on top of the 'Acrocorinth', a tall rocky hill behind it.  What, besides a fort, was up there? (try this article also check out the live video feed on that page)
• The Romans destroyed the city in 144 B.C. and it remained a ruin until 44 B.C. what Roman emperor had it rebuilt?
• What socioeconomic people-group did the Romans use to populate the second Corinth?
• See if you can find Ancient Corinth on 'Google Maps'.  Is it where you thought it would be in relation to the narrow isthmus?  Why where it is rather than right on the narrow part?
• How many ports did Corinth have?  One is right down on the shore from the ancient city.  Where are the other(s)?

That, these pictures, and websites should not only give us a good idea of the place Paul wrote to, but also the people.  See you all Thursday!

The Tragedy of Saul

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting March 27 to study 1 Samuel 31.  This is a short sad chapter.  Notice that this story ends without a 'silver lining'.  It's not the actual end to the overall story, but for Saul, it's the bitter end.  Let's keep our focus on Saul; hard as that will be.

Read through the chapter a few times.  Go ahead and read into 2 Samuel to get some sense of the scope of where this piece fits in the overall story, but we'll be focusing on chapter 31.  Jot down observations and questions and bring them with you Thursday.

After reading through a few times, read back through with the questions below:

• Why do you think the people fled so early on in the fight?
• The sons of Saul die and yet the Philistines take their time finding Saul.  How do you imagine this fight looking?
• The archers find Saul, but still the 'army' hasn't.  Why might that be?
• Saul tells his 'armor-bearer' to kill him, why doesn't he want to die fighting the Philistines?
• Saul kills himself, and then so does his armor-bearer.  How do you imagine this scene?  Why don't the Philistines find him before the next day?
• Where are the rest of the 'men of Israel'?  Look for Gilboa on a map, so why do those on the other side of the Jordan see Saul fall?
• The people fee the cities, and Philistines take them to live in.  What seems strange to you about this?
• Why treat the body of Saul like they did?  
• Why do the Philistines celebrate in their temples?
• Where is the city of Beth-Shan?  Why would the men of Jabesh Gilead risk so much to take Saul and his sons to bury them? (1 Samuel 11)  Why burn them first?
• Why do you think the 'Tamarisk Tree' is a significant place to bury Saul?
• What do you think Saul might have done differently to change the outcome of the battle?  At what point could he have recovered his relationship with God?

That should keep us busy for a bit.  We will also discuss what we'll do next.  See you Thursday!

Everyone Makes Mistakes, Or Do They?

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting March 6 to study 1 Samuel 27 and 28 (maybe both, maybe just 27).  These chapters raise huge questions for loyal followers of Jesus.  There are lots of 'conjectures', 'theories', and 'suggestions'; all of which are opinions, but none of which are really satisfactory or comfortable.  The reality is that these two chapters make us uncomfortable as believers.  So, like all the previous times, we will dive into and swim fearlessly in the deep murky water of Scripture to find the jewels of our Master hidden within.

So, as always, read these chapters several times.  It may be helpful to read ahead, perhaps to the end of the book.  The challenge for us with these two chapters is to perceive what God is doing with these events, and see if we can determine what He is doing, and what He is 'permitting' to be done.  I think that this is an example of our Master 'working all things together for good for those who are called according to His purpose.'  But what is that purpose, and how is He working? 

Jot down your thoughts and questions as you read through.  It may be tough, but try not to camp out on one idea or theory.  Keep in mind we all have opinions on these things, but trying to look back 3,000 years is never easy, and rarely sure.  What we do know is that we have to read is what God wants us to have.  Beyond that, His Spirit uses these words to work on our hearts for His purpose.  That's what we know; all else is opinion.

After reading through the chapters a few times, read through again with these questions in mind:

Chapter 27:

• After reading David's statement in the previous chapter (1 Sam. 26:19) it seems this is not a new idea for David.  Why do you think David seems to even consider this idea?
• Review 1 Sam. 21:10-15.  Why do you think David would consider returning to Achish?
• David's plan seems to work. Saul stops pursuing him.  How do you think the people of Israel think of David at this point?
• David wants space from Achish, and the king gives him Ziklag.  Why do you think David would want it, and why do you think Achish would give it to him?
• Look at a map of the region (one that goes south to the border of Egypt, the one below is too small), and consider where the peoples are that David raids. Why do you think David raids these people?
• If David leaves no witnesses, who do you think he sounds like?
• What is David doing here, raiding, leaving no witnesses, and lying to Achish; what is he playing at?
• Read verse 9 in a few translations.  What is David doing with what he takes?
• What do you think about that 'clothing' can also be translated 'treachery'?
• David says he's raiding the south of Judah.  Why do you think Achish would believe David would behave like that?

Chapter 28:

•  Achish tells David that he will accompany the king into war.  Read verse 2 in as many translations as you have.  What do you think David means by his response to Achish? 
• No one knows, the Scripture never tells us, but what do you think David planned to do in battle?
• What 'position' does Achish give to David?  Why do you think Achish would do that?  What do you think he thinks of David?
• This chapter repeats the statement about Samuel we already say in chapter 25.  Why do you think this is an important enough element to repeat?
• The other element with which Samuel's death is combined is the comment that Saul had 'removed' those communing with the dead from the land.  What do these two have in common?
• What sorts of things does Saul use to try to 'hear' from God?  Why do you think God doesn't answer?
• Saul resorts to asking his servants about one of these 'ones communing with the dead'.  How long does it take to fine one?  What do you think that means for the 'effectiveness' of Saul's 'purge' of such people?
• Saul specifically asks for, and the woman in En-Dor is specifically referred to as a "Baal-Spiritist", and since baal can mean 'lord' or 'master', what do you think this means for who she is among 'spiritists'?  What do you think may be some other options?
•  If God will not answer, how wrong is Saul in seeking this option?
• Saul disguises himself and goes to the super-spirit-channel-surfer-chic.  What is the first thing she says when they approach her for this 'gig'?
• What seems really odd about Saul's response to her hesitation?
• There is a bunch of conjecture about what made the woman scream, Samuel or the fact that Saul was the one asking her to do this.  What do you think it means if she screamed when Samuel appeared?
• Since God forbids this sort of practice, what do you think it means that Samuel appears?  Why, if it 'works' does God not what this sort of thing practiced?
• Read verse 13 in several translations (included the King James if you can find one).  What does she see?  Consider that in verse 14, the reference is 'singular', "What is his shape?" while 'gods' is a plural reference.  Why do you think that might be a problem?
• What is so remarkable about what the woman describes that confirms to Saul it's Samuel?
• Why do you think Saul bows himself down when he realizes it's Samuel?
• Samuel speaks.  Imagine this scene.  What is happening?  Where is the super-spirit-channel-surfer-chic while this is going on?
• What do you think of Saul's answer to Samuel about why he asked him to be brought up?
• Samuel does not seem helpful, at least not at first.  What do you think of his response initially?  How might that help us understand why God never answered in the other ways Saul tried first?
• Where will Saul and his sons be tomorrow?  So, is Samuel in 'heaven' or 'hell'?
• Read 1 Samuel 11:1-7 and compare it to 28:20.  What do you think it feels like to be Saul right now?
• The super-spirit-channel-surfer-chic makes a great hostess, serves veal, and makes bread.  What do you think she's doing, and why?

That should keep well entertained for at least one evening.  Remember to bring your questions and observations to group this Thursday!

The Danger of Obedience

This is the study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting February 6 to study 1 Samuel 23.  This is a fun chapter, has weirdness in it, close calls, and the tension of leadership.  It also is an excellent challenge about hearing God's voice over the voice of people around us.

Read through the chapter several times.  Look for things that sound odd or unexpected.  Write down your questions and observations.  You guys have been asking really good questions.  Keep them coming.  As we saw, sometimes these are answered in Scripture (as if even the people of that day were asking the same questions you are), and some aren't and we're left to wonder.  It's okay, wonder is good.  We can use it to our advantage as we explore Scripture.

After you've read through this chapter (perhaps re-read the one behind and then the one ahead), and you have some questions and observations of your own; go back through once more with these questions.

• David has made his family safe, he's back in the forests of Judah, and has 600 men around him.  Someone tells him that the Philistines are in Keilah.  See if you can find that on a map.  Why do you think the people would tell David rather than Saul?
• Why do you think David would hear about Keilah and then inquire of God to know what he should do?  Why isn't it obvious?  And what do you think the 'obvious' thing would be?
• David's men are afraid if Judah, but of what?  Why do you think they would be more afraid of the Philistines?
• David goes back to verify the word of God he heard the first time, and it's confirmed.  And they go, and are successful.  How do you think the men around David feel now?  Do you think they are still afraid, and if so, of what?  If not, why not?
• What do you find peculiar about Abiathar coming to David at Keilah?  Look back at 1 Samuel 22:20-23; wasn't Abiathar already with David?  What could the writer/editor be telling us with Abiathar's arrival?
• What do you think is the significance of David being in Keilah that makes Saul happy?
• This time David seeks God, the ephod is mentioned.  Why do you think that detail here combined with verse 6 is important?  What do you think that says about David's inquiries in the first 4 verses?
• The word used for 'men' of Keilah can be found in the Strong's Concordance under H1167.  After you look that up, look at H1168.  Now what do you think about the word used?
• Why do you think the people of Keilah would give their 'deliverer' into the hand of the king who did not come to save them, and only moved when he heard David was there, not Philistines?
• Why would God send David to save such people?  Why would God send David to where He knew David would be in danger?
• Look back at 1 Samuel 22:2, where do you think David came up with the other 200 men?  
• David leaves Keilah, and Saul hears about it.  So, between verse 13 and 14, did Saul go out after David or not?
• Saul can't find David, but his son Jonathan seems to have no problem.  Why do you think that might be?
• Consider what Jonathan says to David.  What is Jonathan going to do that his father will not?
• How many covenants between David and Jonathan does this make?
• The people of Ziph go to Saul about David.  Here again, why might they do that?  Does 1 Samuel 22:2 suggest a reason for you?
• Saul is very happy with the people of Ziph, they have had the 'pity' on him that his servants didn't.  What does it mean for you that Saul invokes the name of God in blessing these people.  How valid a blessing is this, even with God's name used?
• So Saul essentially uses the people of Ziph as 'scouts' for his forces to find David.  How effective are they?
• This isn't an easy passage to translate, but the gist of it is easily found in most any translation.  How close do you think Saul is getting to David?
• Now Saul hears of Philistines, now he pursues them.  Why do you think this is different from before when the Philistines attacked Keilah?
• Look up 'En-Gedi' in a Bible Dictionary, map, online or other resource.  What sort of place has David gone?

That should do it for this week.  Be sure to bring your questions and notes with you Thursday.  See you then!

Poetic Encouragement

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting January 9 to study Isaiah 40.  This is probably one of my favorite passages in Scripture.  It forms the opening of the second section of Isaiah, directed toward the Israelites in exile in Babylon/Persia. 

Some believe this section of Isaiah was written late, during the time of Daniel, others that it was written early, foreshadowing their eventual return.  I think it was written by a remnant of a 'school' of prophets first started/run by Isaiah during the exile.  I'm not sure if they would have been located in Jerusalem or in exile, but the romantic in me likes the thought of Jerusalem (the least likely option).  That would mean the writers wrote from the rubble of Jerusalem words of hope to the exiles in a pagan land. 

Anyway, read the chapter through several times.  This is poetry, not the usual narrative texts we have studied so far, so you can expect to find a LOT more peculiarities and variety in translations.  Translating poetry from one language to another is the most difficult sort of translation (that and humor probably tie).  The problem is the poetic 'license' and 'imagery' used are not to be understood literally.  This is usually handled well in most translations; but read it in several translations, and consider the differences and what they might mean.

After reading it through a few times, go back over it considering these questions:

• Consider the audience in the opening lines.  'Comfort' is an imperative (command), and it's plural.  Consider who is to be comforted.  What is the goal, at the outset, of the writer, and of God through the writer?
• In verse 3 through 5, do you think the audience has remained the exiles?
• Who winds up being the 'voice' referred to in verse 3?
• Who is the highway for?  So, 'who's coming to dinner' so to speak?  So, why do you think it would be difficult for modern Jews to deny so vehemently that the Messiah could be deity?
• Verses 6 through 8 (possibly through 11) there is a dialogue.  The content of the 'crying out' is two fold (if the dialog extends through verse 11), so how do you think the two pieces relate?  Why do you think they were combined here?
• There are at least two elements of God's character described between verse 12 and 17.  His holiness and his glory seem to be the main things in these verses.  Why do you think the audience needs to hear that?  How do these elements of God's character affect you hearing/reading them like this?
• In verses 18 through 26, the worship involving idols is really addressed well.  Why do you think this needs to be addressed, either with the exiles or with the people left in Judah?
• What do you see as the major contrast between idol worship and worship of God?
• Considering the 'resume' of God in verses 21 through 26, what problem do you think this addressing with the audience?  What are they supposed to have known 'from the foundations of the earth', and why do you think they might have forgotten it?
• Verses 27 through 31 are the most famous of this chapter, especially 31.  It begins with a 'quote' either from the exiles or the people in Jerusalem/Judah.  Considering that the way the poetry is structured the focus of the quote is on the 'justice' and 'pathway' of the one speaking, what is the danger of such a focus on our justice and our way of life?
• How do you think knowing that God is never tired and His understanding is unsearchable helps people in bad circumstances?
• The things the audience wants, power and strength, find their source somewhere other than youth.  Why do you think the people needed to know this?  Why might you?
• What does it mean to you or what would it look like for you to 'wait expectantly' for God?  Why would do that renew your strength?  How do you think that 'works' or is that even the right question to ask?

That should keep us busy for quite some time.  Be sure to bring notes and questions of your own. 

How can Jerusalem (or my church) Affect "The Whole World"?

This is the study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting November 21 to study Chapter 5 of Multiply by Francis Chan.  This chapter is on the 'Global Church', and it challenges small local perspectives of ministry.  In this chapter, Chan specifically references Isaiah 52, and that's where we're going to focus for a bit.

First read the chapter in Multiply a time or two, then read Isaiah 52 through several times.  Hopefully you will be struck with the dissimilarities right off.  On pages 80 and 81 of Multiply, Chan cites Paul's references to this chapter in two places in Romans.  So Paul has used this chapter to support his mission to reach the world with the Good News of Jesus.  Therefore Chan isn't the one responsible for the apparent dissimilarities.  That's what I want us to look at.  So read through Isaiah 52 again a few times.  Then finally with the questions below:

• To whom does the prophet Isaiah address this entry, at least to begin with?
• What is going to happen, what is Isaiah prophesying about?
• This event will fix a problem cited a few times in this chapter.  It's a problem suffered by God Himself.  What is it?
• One of the effects of this event is referred to in verse 15, which is the verse used by Paul (Romans 15:20-21).  Taken in its entirety, what does this verse mean (consider the context of the chapter)?  Is that what Paul means?
• Consider that this text of Isaiah forms part of the only Scripture available to the early church anywhere.  What overall meaning is Paul deriving from this chapter?  How close is that meaning to the one Isaiah had as he wrote?
• How does the event to which Isaiah refers fix the problem suffered by God?
• What will be the effect of this solution on Israel and on the 'nations'/'kingdoms'?
• How does this solution and the effects of it support Paul's use of the passage?

That should give you plenty to work through.  You may also gain an appreciation for the failures of Israel to think globally.  They were somewhat preoccupied with survival much of the time, but you will hopefully see that the mandate was always there.  If it was there for them then, it's there here for us today.

Who Are You Again?

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Small Group meeting September 26 to study 1 Samuel 17.  This is a deceptively simple chapter.  When combined with chapter 16 it seems to repeat the beginnings of David and Saul meeting.

This week I have attached a document to the email to help you get a sense of documentation issues with the chapter.  The .PDF file is the text of 1 Samuel 17 translated from the Greek version of the Hebrew Scriptures (Septuagint or LXX).  This Greek text may preserve an older reading from the Hebrew Scriptures that the Hebrew text normally used.  It's not certain, it's possible.  Read this together with what have in our modern translations, and take careful note of the differences.

Read this chapter in as many translations as you have available.  The differences may surprise you.  Look up strange word usage in a concordance (like Strong's).  Be sure to take notes on what you find as you read through, jot down questions and the answers you come up with.

After reading through several times, go back through again using the questions below:

• Why do you think all the detail about who was on which hill across which valley might be important?
• If a cubit is about 18 inches and a span is about 6, how many fingers does he have on his left hand? (2 Samuel 21:20 - you thought I was kidding didn't you?)
• If a "shekel" is about .5 oz, then about how heavy was Goliath's armor in lbs.?
• How heavy would the head of his spear be?
• Why do you think the ranks of Israel fled from one Philistine?
• Why would we be 're-introduced' to David in verse 12?
• If David goes back and forth from Saul to the flock, how known would he be by Saul?
• Why would the giant come out every day, all day, for forty days?  What's he and the Philistines doing?
•  Why do you think would Jesse send supplies to the commander of his sons, not just his sons?
• If David leaves early, and arrives as the giant is coming out, how long was his trip?  
• Think about the 'scuttlebutt' in the ranks as the giant comes out.  Saul has raised the stakes for a champion, everyone's talking about it, so why doesn't someone try for it?  What's the assumption in the ranks?
• Why might David want to hear the same spiel over and over?
• Why, if David was anointed right in front of him, would his brother be all upset by David now?
• How put off by his older brother is David?
• David volunteers to fight the giant.  What experience has he had with giants?
• What do you think of David's lion and bear fighting technique?
• What would David have been using against the lion and bear?
• If he's not wearing armor, what advantage would he have over the giant?
• David picks up 5 stones not 1.  In light of 2 Samuel 21, why might that have been a good idea?  What's he ready for?
• Back to taunting again.  Why is David's taunt so much better than the giants?
• Look at verse 49 in the attachment.  How does that help explain what the stone did to the giant?
• How did Goliath die?
• Where do you think the shield guy was?
• What does David do with the giant's stuff, like his head and his weapons?
• Why would Saul not know David?  Why wouldn't Abner?
• When David appears before Saul, where is the giant head now?

That should be plenty to fuel a discussion.  I look forward to seeing everyone Thursday!  Blessings upon you until then!

What God Regrets

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting September 5 to study 1 Samuel 15.  This is a very interesting chapter.  It recounts one of Saul's victories listed in chapter 14, but also the final failure and rejection of Saul as king.  There is no "time-table" so we don't know how far into his reign this happens.  It could be a decade or more of his twenty or so years reign.  Since for this account, timing is not important, we'll just study it as it's presented.

Read through the chapter several times, and note items like where are people when they are doing what is described.  It may be helpful to trace Saul's route on a map (or two maps perhaps - there's one down below).  Be sure to read the chapter in a few translations.  They read differently, and those differences are your clues to "difficulties" and the various possible solutions.  Make some note and bring them - we had some real good ones last week.

After reading through a few times, read back through using the questions below:

• Samuel gives Saul some instructions from God.  How explicit and clear are these instructions?  How much "room for error" did Samuel/God leave Saul?
• How long did Saul wait to start out?
• Who are the Kenites?  Look them up here.  Why let them go?  What "kindness" did they show Israel in the desert wandering?
• Verse 7 sounds good, then verses 8 and 9 depart from his instructions.  In the previous chapter (14:48), Amalek is described as ones having plundered Israel.  What difference might this make in influencing their obedience to the command of God?
• In verse 11, we are introduced to a word ascribed to God, a characteristic of His.  Look up H5162 in Strong's Concordance (your own or online).  Think about what this means, essentially all the meanings have a common thread.  What does this mean that God can do this?  Why might that be a problem "theologically" for people?
• This is where we trace Saul's route to Gilgal.  He comes back and goes to Carmel first.  Look at the map below.  Why is that a strange route to take?  Consider what he does there.  Hold that thought.
• When Samuel shows up at Gilgal, how does Saul greet him?  Consider that along with the thought you were holding from the previous question.  Now, how does Saul seem to view the situation?
• When Samuel asks Saul about the sheep and cattle, Saul says they are for sacrifice.  In such an act of worship, what happens to the sacrifice?  (think about this from previous references in Samuel).  So what is the intent of the people/Saul?
• In all the places where "utterly destroyed" or "completely destroyed" is used, it refers to this word at H2763, listen to it in addition to reading about it. Does the word sound familiar, but from a different context in the Middle East?  What is allowed to escape the "ban"?  Why or why not?
• Even through verse 16, Saul doesn't seem to grasp the situation.  Why might that be?  How could he not know he's done something wrong?
• Even as he answers Samuel, he still protests his innocence.  What is it the difference between Saul's intent, and the intent of the "ban"?  Wouldn't the end result be the same?
• In Samuel's response to Saul, he uses two words for "sacrifice", one the "whole burnt offering" where nothing is spared, all is burned, and then the word Saul has used throughout.  What's the difference?  How does this illuminate more about what is really wrong here?  But what would have been different had they intended a "whole burnt offering"?
• If God delights more in obedience than offerings, what does that say about our worship on Sunday's?  What is supposed to characterize us throughout the week?
• Read verse 23 in as many versions as you can find.  Saul's sins are rebellion (as bad as divination), and what?  What is as bad as idolatry?  Why might that be true, and connected to idolatry?
• Samuel calls what Saul has done, "rejection of God's command/word".  How aware was Saul of what he was doing and what it really meant?  Does God take that into account?
• Read both verses 24 and 30.  From Samuel's response, how much difference does it seem to make whether Saul is sincere or not?
• When Saul grabs Samuel's robe and it tears, consider what he says to Saul, what will God not do? This word "change His mind" or "relent" or "repent" is the same word used previously for God in verse 11 (H5162).  What's the difference here?  Why not here, but before God does?  Hold that thought.
• Samuel does go back with Saul, but he has other reasons than making Saul look good to the elders and the people.  What does Samuel do to Agag?  Look at verse 33 in as many versions as you have.  The NIV is "nicer" but the others are more accurate.  How does this influence your thinking about God?
• In verse 35, God again is said to "repent" or "regret", and it's our same word.  Again, why here, but not in verse 29?  What does Samuel's claim mean in verse 29?
• How does Samuel feel about all this?  Consider verses 11, along with 35.  Keep this in mind, because it comes back around in the next chapter.

That should keep us busy Thursday.  I look forward to studying with you then.

Rashness: Both Good and Bad

This is the study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting August 29 to study 1 Samuel 14.  There are peculiar twists and confusing descriptions in this chapter.  And it gives us probably the most positive view of Saul, and it's not all that good.

Read through the chapter several times to get a sense of the flow of events.  There is a part at the beginning that is sort of an annotation/interruption in the narrative, but it's not hard to pick up the flow of events immediately following.  It was supposed to give more detail on the setting, but so far from the events, it's almost obscuring rather than clarifying.  We have to trust that it meant something at the time of writing/compiling.

Jot down notes, questions, and insights into God's character, Saul's character, Jonathan's character and the people.  Note relationships and imagine what it would have been like to be there and hear what was said, see what was done, and see who was doing it.  After reading it through enough to get a good feel for it, and jotting down your insights, read it through again with these questions:

• As with the prior chapter, Jonathan starts the conflict.  In verse 1, it doesn't sound bad, but through verse 5, the situation is shown to be really lopsided.  What sort of character do you think it takes in a person to face such circumstances with just your "buddy"?
• Jonathan has a reason for his faith, that Yahweh isn't hindered by lack of numbers, he has history to demonstrate this (Gideon for example).  What is your faith based in, what sort of personal history?  And does that history support such acts of faith as Jonathan's?
• Jonathan chooses a sign to know if Yahweh has given the Philistines into his hand, but what does he use as his fall-back if the sign isn't given?  What does it mean for his character?  What do you think would have happened had the Philistines come down to him?
• Considering bravery and cowardice, so far in this account, the numerous Philistines versus the paltry few Israelites, who is courageous and who is cowardly?  Why might that be surprising?  What might support "caution" on the part of the Philistines?
• Read verse 15 in as many translations as possible.  Look up "trembling"/"panic" in the Strong's Concordance.  Then look up "trembled" in the Strong's Concordance.  These words have the same root, and the first (noun) is used at the end of the verse.  What do you imagine happening in the Philistine camp?  What does this have to do with Jonathan?
• What do the "spies/lookouts" for Saul see, what do you think it looked like?
• Saul figures out who is missing, so what does he do immediately?  There is debate about whether the "Ark of God" is referred to or whether it is the "Ephod" of the priest (long story).  What would make the Ephod make more sense in light of verse 18?
• Regardless of how confusing verse 17 and 18 are (and they are confusing), Saul decides not to inquire of God through the priest.  Why?  Think in terms of character and circumstance and don't be too quick to judge harshly.
• What do Saul and the army find when they reach the battle?  Where is Jonathan?
• Who are these "Hebrews", and where did they come from?  The Greek version uses the term "slaves", how does that influence your understanding?
• Who else joins the battle?  Where did they come from, and how did they know what was happening in Benjamin?
• Why would Saul swear an oath on the people to not eat?  What "military" value would that have had?
• When Jonathan's eyes shine from eating the honey, someone tells him of his father's oath.  How does Jonathan interpret his father's action?  What does that tell you of Jonathan's character?
• So at some point the people fall on the plunder and begin sinning by eating blood.  How do you imagine this scene?  When Saul is told, he says they are being treacherous.  What do you think about what happened and why?  If you had to ascribe fault, how would you do it (not who, but how would you decide)?
• Saul's solution is to roll a big rock to use to slaughter the animals.  It also says he built an altar, his first.  Do you think the large stone and the altar are the same?  What would that mean for what he did?  What does that say about his character?
• Saul wants to continue to pursue the Philistines, but what does it mean that the priest contradicts him?  Why would the priest do that?
• So what does God answer Saul?  What does that mean?  Saul decides what he thinks it means, so lots are cast, but why does Saul say the person offending will die?
• Prior to this the people say, "Do what is good in your eyes." But not here, what do you think they are thinking?
• Jonathan owns what he did, and whatever consequences.  What do we learn about his character here?
• The people stand up for Jonathan against the king.  If (or since) Yahweh brought victory through Jonathan, what can we guess is His opinion of what has gone on?
• The rest of the chapter summarizes Saul's reign and his family.  What do you think of Saul's victories and success?  What does that reveal of God's perspective of Saul?
• Saul's family will be important later, but a son is missing (2 Samuel 2:8), why might that be?
• Considering that "ab" means "father" in Hebrew, what do you think of Abner's name versus his father's name?  Why would someone name the child that way?
• So Saul's reign is characterized by conflict with the Philistines, so what is his usual practice?  Good idea or bad idea?  Or is it a necessity?

That should do for now.  Blessings upon you all until Thursday!

So Long, And Thanks For All The Headaches

This is the Bible study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting August 15 to study 1 Samuel 12.  This is the final chapter of the Establishment of the Monarchy.  After this, Samuel and Kings follow a literary formula used for the remainder of the kings.  Here is the final address of Samuel to the people.

Read through the chapter a several times.  Look for things that jump out at you that don't make sense.  Some of what Samuel says refers to the Book of Judges which we haven't gone through yet.  Most though is a rehash of things he has said before with slight differences.  Look for and note the differences; and ask yourself why they might be different.

After reading through and jotting down some notes, consider the questions below as you read through again.

• Samuel starts by stating the current situation.  Then he asks who might have a charge against him.  Why do you think he'd ask that question?  What do you think might be his point in doing so?
• After the people respond that they have no charges, he calls God into it as a witness that they have no charges, and they agree.  Now what might he be doing?  Why do you think he would take it to this extra step?
• Then Samuel recounts the series of failures and subsequent deliverances by God.  Now what might he be doing?  He's cleared himself, now he's clearing God; but why might he be doing this?
• What does Samuel say prompted the people's request for a king?  Why use that?  Do you think that was the issue all along, or just a convenient recent issue?
• So, now they have a king, and Samuel charges them to serve and fear God; but what is the benefit, the other side of the "covenant" so to speak?  Read verse 14 in as many translations as you have access.  Consider the differences and similarities as you answer the question.
• Consider the consequences for disobedience.  It's not specific, but generally, how bad does that sound to you?  Think about how it could be worse.  How much worse can you imagine?
• As a sign to them of the truth of his words, Samuel calls on God for thunder and rain during the harvest.  Your study commentaries won't be able to pass that up.  What is the significance of the rain at harvest time?  There may be some disagreement over the significance.
• The people are panic-stricken over the rain/thunder (or voice).  But why would they think they will die, who said anything about that?
• The response of Samuel to their fearful plea is my central teaching from this chapter.  Consider the pieces of what Samuel says in verses 20-23, and consider what this says of the character of God, not just of Samuel.  What do you learn of your relationship with God from this?  How does He see you?
• How does verse 25 and verse 22 fit into the same context?

That should help us through the passage.  Be sure to bring your own questions and comments to the group.  See you Thursday!

Good News, Bad News

This is the study page for the Thursday Night Study Group meeting May 30 to study 1 Samuel 3.  This is a famous chapter for Samuel's call, and not nearly enough for the content of God's message.  We'll be comparing Samuel's message with the "man of God" from chapter 2, so look over that one too.  As you read through this chapter, try to imagine what is happening, imagine the setting as best you can.  Think about what things might look like and so on.  It might be helpful to look up Shiloh excavations in Israel on Google to give you a sense of what things may have looked like in Samuel's day.

After reading through several times on your own, jotting down questions and observations, consider the questions below as you go through a few more times:

• The word normally translated as "rare" really misses an important element of the meaning.  Look up the Hebrew word used for "rare".  What's the difference?
• What does it mean that the "lamp of God had not yet gone out"?  Read Leviticus 24:2-4.  What might it mean if the lamp does go out?
• Where was Samuel sleeping? Read Exodus 26:30-35, and Leviticus 16:2-13.  Why might Samuel's place of sleeping be considered dangerous?
• It was said of Eli's sons that they did not know God (1 Samuel 2:12), so what is different about Samuel here?
• What might it mean that "nor had the word of the LORD yet been revealed to him"?
• What is it that takes Eli three times to figure out?  Why would it have taken three times?
• Where is God when He calls to Samuel?
• How does Samuel's response differ from Eli's instructions?  Why might that be?
• The message seems shorter than the one given to the "man of God" in the previous chapter.  But what is the point here?
• In 1 Samuel 2:22 the word for "tent" is used specifically for the place of worship.  But now "doors" are being opened.  And the word "palace" is again used to refer to it.  So, what sort of place is this?  How do you imagine it?
• What is Samuel's feelings about the "word" he has been given by God?
• Eli calls him and tells him not to hide anything from him, what does he say will happen if Samuel does?
• Samuel tells him and what does Eli say?  Why say that?  How might he have said it?
• From the final three verses of Chapter 3 how much times elapses between the "word of God" coming to Samuel, and the events in Chapter 4?  So, what does it mean when God says He's about to do something?
• How "rare" is the word of God now?

That should be enough to start.  Be sure to bring your questions and observations.  Obviously I miss stuff (like the boiling sacrifice from Leviticus last week - Thank you for catching that Don!).  We're beginning to see more and more that we are much better at seeing Scripture together than we can ever be alone.  That's a big part of what we do every Thursday.  It's that way by the design of our Master.

Of Isaac's Beginning, and Abraham's Ending

This is the study page for Thursday, August 2.  We'll be studying Genesis 24 and the beginning of 25 (through verse 11).  This will wrap up Abraham, and then we'll take a break from the Patriarchs, and explore the Acts of the Apostles.

There are lots of strangeness in these verses.  Chapter 25 is so long partly because a major piece of it is a total repeat of itself.  As you read through, you will have questions, so please write them down and bring them Thursday.  You can post them to this blog as a comment, and I'll try to answer them before Thursday.  Consider these questions as you read through the passages:

• What's the name of the "elder servant"? (bonus points if you figure this one out)
• What's with the hand under the thigh?
• The servant is looking for options, what options, and why is he so careful to look for them?
• What is Abraham most adamant about?  Why that more than a wife from his kin?
• In Chapter 11 and 12, what city did Abraham's family settle?  Where is this one?
• What is the servant's tactic to fulfill his quest?  What does he rely on?
• After the young woman fulfills his conditions, what does the servant give her? Look at the word used for 'ring'.  What might it have been? (hold that thought)
• Who is Bethuel again? (look back at chapter 22)
• What do you think Rebekah is thinking by the time the servant spontaneously worships Yahweh right there while talking to her?
• Where does Rebekah run to?
• What does her brother do?  Why does he do it?
• Why is the servant still at the spring?
• Besides the camels, who else is taken care of ?
• After the camels are taken care of but before he eats, what must the servant do?
• From verse 33 to 48 the servant recounts is tremendous detail what happened at the spring.  What does he do with the ring in verse 47?
• Who is he talking to in verse 33?
• Who is present in 50?
• What is the servant's concern now that he has found Rebekah?
• How do Bethuel and Laban respond?
• What does the servant do once he has been given Rebekah?
• The next day, what is the delay in heading back?
• What is Rebekah's family concerned about?
• What does it say about Rebekah that she agrees to go?  How hard was it to convince her?
• What do you think of the blessing of her family?
• So, how does Yahweh factor into this story?
• What understanding do you have now about why he wanted a wife for Isaac from his family?
• What is Beer-lahai-roi named for and who by?
• Look up the word "meditate".  What are the other possibilities?  Why is it so hard to know for sure what it meant?
•  What does Rebekah do when she sees Isaac for the first time?
• Why wasn't the veil up the whole time?  Why now?
• How elaborate is the "marriage"?
• What is the main effect on Isaac?  What does that say about him?
• After Sarah, what does Abraham do ?
• How many kids does he have now?  Why is that really odd?
• What does he do with all these kids?
• What does he do for Isaac?
• How old is he when he dies?
• Where is he buried?

Wow! That's a lot.  I hope we can finish it in one night, but we may spend another one after next week wrapping up.  I think we're all supposed to be there Thursday (I hope), so I look forward to seeing you all at dinner!

Blessings!

Isaac Carries His Own Wood

This is the study page for Genesis 22 for the July 19 small group meeting.  There may be a lot of people out, and they are going to miss one of the most familiar and confusing chapters of Genesis.

There should be plenty of questions.  A lot of our group will be travelling this week, so if you who are can get to the Internet and read this page this week, post questions you may have as comments.  We'll share and discuss in the group, and post answers we come up with (almost like you're there).

As you read through the chapter, consider these questions; and as always, remember to come up with your own as well.

• Why is God so specific with Abraham about Isaac?
• Abraham has had discussions with God on other things he was told (Sodom for instance), but he doesn't push back on sending away Hagar and her son, nor here.  We know that he was bothered about sending his first-born away.  So what would be going on with Abraham here?
• How does Abraham distribute the burdens once he leaves the two servants with the donkey?
• We always use this passage for a name of God, that He is the 'Provider'.  Follow the link to look up the word "ra'ah" (H7200).  How is it most commonly translated?
• What is Isaac thinking here, and as this is happening?
• We always think of the angel "grabbing" Abraham's arm with the knife.  What did the Angel of The Lord actually do?
• What's with Abraham's common response of, "Here I am"?  Has he been using this response all the way through so far?
• What was God doing, or how does He explain His test?
• Where did the "ram" come from?
• What does Abraham name God here?
• We've already looked at the word compounded with God's proper Name to make this.  Now see what the Strong's does with it (H3070).  What other name of God we have run across already does this sound like (hint: it wasn't Abraham that gave it to Him, but one of his household)?
• What do you think of the promise God makes here, not so much the content which is familiar, but the timing and construction?
• What is new in this promise?

That should do for now.  As I said, you will probably have questions of your own (or at least I hope so).  If you can't make it Thursday, post your questions as comments or replies to the email.  We'll share answers after Thursday's meeting.

Blessings upon you all, and safe travels for those not able to be with us!

Genesis 20: Same Song, Different Tune

Happy Fourth!  This is partly a reminder and partly a more accessible page.  This is the study page for Genesis 20 for the Thursday, July 5 group.  This chapter will sound and feel a lot like the last half of Chapter 12.  But there are differences.

I sent these bullets to you in an email, but here they are again.  As you read the chapter consider these questions, but also come up with some of your own.

• Where is the area Abraham goes located?
• What is different about how God deals with the king of Gerar as opposed to Pharaoh?
• What sort of person does God consider Abimelech?
• This Strong's word (H1166) is used in verse 3 for "married".  What do we normally think of when we hear this word? 
• This Strong's word (H0136) is used in verse 4 for how Abimelech addresses God.  What might be expected here if he is a pagan king?
• What does Abimelech do first thing after the "dream"?
• When Abimelech confronts Abraham, what is Abraham's explanation?
• Before, in Chapter 12, I posed the possibility that Abraham was shrewd, not afraid.  What does Abraham's explanation claim was his motivation?
• What does God tell Abimelech to do to fix the problem?
• From verses 16 & 17, what importance does Sarah play here?  What's the possibility that she is more than a "pawn" here?
• What is interesting in the "plague" and the timing of these events?

Hopefully you have already had a chance to go through the passage, look at a map, and get a sense of the events here.  I hope you have questions!  See you tomorrow night!

What Is God Doing Here?

On to Chapter 15 of Genesis!  This is for our meeting on Thursday, May 17.

Last week was interesting and there was action and intrigue.  This week there is strange behavior by both Abram and God.  This chapter is about a covenant God makes with Abram and the odd way God ratifies it.

Read the chapter a few times this week, and consider the following questions:

• When has God initiated the coversation with you?
• What does it tell you about the relationship Abram had with God?
• Abram wastes no time bringing up what's bothering him, what's bothering him?
• He believes God in verse 6, so why the renewal of this discussion in verse 7?
• If you had to write a transition between verse 6 and 7, what would it be?
• Why does God "prove" His promise with dead animals, a smoking oven, and a torch?
• What clue do we have that God has actually arrived?
• Do a search on "Suzerainty Treaty" and browse some of the results.  Do any features of verses 7-21 sound like any of those sorts of treaties?
• In this account, who is the suzerain and who is the "vassal"?
• If God is sovereign, the Creator, Master, and incomprehensible to His human creatures, why would He do this?  To whom is He binding Himself?
• Pastor Rod gave a list of promises of God in his sermon Sunday.  If you remember any, write them down.  If you don't listen to the sermon again, and write them down.  From this account, how sure can you be that God will make good on His promises?  How comfortable are you with that?

That should gain both practical and interesting understanding from this passage.  I hope to see everyone on Thursday!

Faith That Travels, but Doesn't Protect?

Greetings!  On April 26 we will be out of the "Prologue" of Genesis and into the Patriarchs.  For this Thursday, read Genesis 12, and we'll discuss both halves (vs. 1-9, and 10-20).  As you read, consider the following questions:

• What are the elements of God's command to go to Canaan?
• Why does Abram build altars?
• At what point does God promise the land?  At what point does He promise Abram will be a great nation?
• How far through Canaan does Abram get?
• What do you think Abram thinks of being a great nation in that land?
• Why does Abram go to Egypt?
• Look at Genesis 11:26-32; what relationship is described between Abram and Sarai?
• What's the problem with Abram's logic as they enter Egypt?
• He seems right about his evaluation of Sarai, but what happens to the Pharaoh when he agrees?
• What does Pharaoh do once the plagues hit his household?

That should get us thinking anyway.  Be sure to note any other questions you have and bring them on Thursday.  I look forward to seeing everyone!