Author Archives: John Sanzone

Aug. 29, 2021. II Samuel 16:15-23

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AHITHOPHEL’S REVENGE.  II Samuel 16:15-23.  8/29/2021.  #37.

II Samuel 16:15-23 [New King James Version]

15 Meanwhile Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem; and Ahithophel was with him. 16 And so it was, when Hushai the Archite, David’s friend, came to Absalom, that Hushai said to Absalom, “Long live the king! Long live the king!” 17 So Absalom said to Hushai, “Is this your loyalty to your friend? Why did you not go with your friend?” 18 And Hushai said to Absalom, “No, but whom the Lord and this people and all the men of Israel choose, his I will be, and with him I will remain. 19 Furthermore, whom should I serve? Should I not serve in the presence of his son? As I have served in your father’s presence, so will I be in your presence.” 20 Then Absalom said to Ahithophel, “Give advice as to what we should do.” 21 And Ahithophel said to Absalom, “Go in to your father’s concubines, whom he has left to keep the house; and all Israel will hear that you are abhorred by your father. Then the hands of all who are with you will be strong.” 22 So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the top of the house, and Absalom went in to his father’s concubines in the sight of all Israel. 23 Now the advice of Ahithophel, which he gave in those days, was as if one had inquired at the oracle of God. So was all the advice of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.

  1. Hushai’s Gambit
    1. David’s friend and advisor, Hushai, greets Absalom with “Long live the King!”
      1.  Absalom is suspicious: “Why did you not go with your friend, David?”
      1.  Hushai would be expected to remain loyal to David
    1. Hushai states that he will faithfully serve whoever is king
      1.  This is not loyalty, but opportunist
      1.  A man who switches loyalty, like one who betrays a spouse, cannot be trusted
    1. Absalom’s initial intuition was correct
      1.  By accepting Hushai, Absalom brings a spy into fold
      1.  Even Hushai’s explanation reeked of deceit
    1. It is not wise to casually blow past intuition and discernment
      1.  David did not follow initial instinct with Amnon
      1.  David did not follow instinct with Absalom
      1.  Absalom doesn’t follow instinct with Hushai
    1. Just as David deceived Bathsheba and Uriah, Absalom deceived David, and now Hushai deceives Absalom (sowing and reaping)
  2. Ahithophel’s revenge
    1. Ahithophel’s advice was so wise it was as if from God
    1. Absalom asks what they should do first
    1. Ahithophel advises to violate David’s concubine before Israel
      1.  David had left behind 10 concubines to take care of the palace
      1.  II Samuel 12 Nathan predicted that since David violated Bathsheba is secret, God would allow David’s neighbor to violate his marriage bed in public
        1.  David left concerned in Jericho knowing the prophecy
        1.  To have a son do this added to the shame (as Reuben did to Jacob; I Corinthians 5)
      1.  Ahithophel argues that this act would show Israel how much Absalom despised David (no reconciliation between father and son possible, so Absalom’s men would feel confident and strengthened by the act)
    1. A big tent was put on the spot on the palace roof from which David watched Bathsheba bathe
    1. This is Ahithophel’s revenge
      1.  Bath. was Ahithophel’s granddaughter
      1.  Just as David saw his godaughter naked while on the palace roof and then violated her, he advises Absalom to violate David’s conscious at the same spot
      1.  Ahithophel has obviously been seething about this for years while at the same time being chief advisor
      1.  Ahithophel never turns vengeance over to God
    1. God had already pronounced judgment on David
      1.  It was not up to Ahithophel to punish David
      1.  God used Ahithophel’s plot to fulfill prophecy
  3. Downward slope
    1. One sin begets another
      1.  Once the downward spiral begins, many people become entrapped in the folly
      1.  David’s initial sin started a domino effect
    1. Each player in this drama was still responsible for his acts
    1. No corrupt ruler can rule well
    1. Notice the bitterness David caused in family and nation
    1. Yet, God chose David and other flawed people to do his will

Aug 22, 2021. I Thessalonians 3:6-13

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GOOD REPORT.  I Thessalonians 3:6-13.  8/22/2021.  #7.

I Thessalonians 3:6-13 [New King James Version]

6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always have good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we also to see you— 7 therefore, brethren, in all our affliction and distress we were comforted concerning you by your faith. 8 For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord. 9 For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God, 10 night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith? 11 Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you. 12 And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you, 13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.

  1. Timothy brings good news
    1. Timothy had finally returned from Thessalonians
      1.  They were still holding onto their faith & love
      1.  They remembered Paul fondly & desired to see him again
    1. Timothy’s news was like a balm over Paul’s anxiety
      1.  Proverbs 25:25 refreshed by good news from afar
      1.  Paul had expected the worse, but received a great blessing
      1.  The news lightened their affliction since the fruit of their labor was worth the price paid
    1. The fruit of faithfully serving the Lord is worth any price
      1.  Trials at the time may seem overwhelming, but the reward of service is far greater (1 Corinthians 3)
      1.  We will not know the full impact of our service to the Lord until we stand before the Lord
      1.  Paul was allowed to see a glimpse of the result of his labor when Timothy returned to him
    1. The thought of the reward for the fruit of our labor should comfort us despite evil around us (I Corinthians 15:50-58)
      1.  Faith remembrance makes us immoveable
      1.  The power of hope of reward strengthens us
    1. Paul rejoices in what God did in 3 weeks in Thess.
  2. Thankful & Hopeful
    1. Paul was thankful to the Lord, for he knew that the short time he had with the Thessalonians was not enough to fortify them
      1.  The Spirit of God used what Paul gave them & magnified its impact & power
      1.  God had put a hedge around the new believers
    1. Paul had underpinned the new church with continual prayer (not to be underestimated or minimized)
    1. Paul still wanted to return to complete the Thessalonians training
      1.  There is no indication that Paul was ever able to return to the city
      1.  Paul tried to fill in the gap through his 2 letters to them & sending Timothy to help them
    1. Paul prayed that the Lord would direct him to the Thessalonians
      1.  Some prayers are not answered because God has a different plan
      1.  Some prayers are not answered because we take a side trip off the path God lays out for us (Paul’s defiance of God’s command not to go to Jerusalem may have prevented him from seeing the Thessalonians and other churches again, just like Moses’s disobedience stopped his entry into Canaan)
  3. Growing in faith until the trumpet sounds
    1. Paul also prayed that their love and holiness would continue to grow
      1.  Once Paul no longer could directly influence the Thessalonians, he had to leave them totally in God’s care
      1.  All our teaching & training must end & we then leave rests in God’s care & responses of trainees
    1. Paul looks forward to when the Lord comes
      1.  There will be an accounting of both our ministry and of those who received our ministry
      1.  Paul couldn’t hover over seedlings he planted
      1.  Our impact will be seen when Lord returns
    1. Paul could encourage & pray for Thessalonians, then wait for results

Part of faith is trusting the Lord with the results

Aug 22, 2021. II Samuel 16:5-14

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SHIMEI’S RANT.  II Samuel 16:5-14.  8/22/2021. #36.

2 Samuel 16:5-14 [New King James Version]

5 Now when King David came to Bahurim, there was a man from the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei the son of Gera, coming from there. He came out, cursing continuously as he came. 6 And he threw stones at David and at all the servants of King David. And all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his left. 7 Also Shimei said thus when he cursed: “Come out! Come out! You bloodthirsty man, you rogue! 8 The Lord has brought upon you all the blood of the house of Saul, in whose place you have reigned; and the Lord has delivered the kingdom into the hand of Absalom your son. So now you are caught in your own evil, because you are a bloodthirsty man!” 9 Then Abishai the son of Zeruiah said to the king, “Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? Please, let me go over and take off his head!” 10 But the king said, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? So let him curse, because the Lord has said to him, ‘Curse David.’ Who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’ ” 11 And David said to Abishai and all his servants, “See how my son who came from my own body seeks my life. How much more now may this Benjamite? Let him alone, and let him curse; for so the Lord has ordered him. 12 It may be that the Lord will look on my affliction, and that the Lord will repay me with good for his cursing this day.” 13 And as David and his men went along the road, Shimei went along the hillside opposite him and cursed as he went, threw stones at him and kicked up dust. 14 Now the king and all the people who were with him became weary; so they refreshed themselves there.

1. Shimei’s rash act

                a. Shimei was a relative of Saul

                b. When David flees from Jerusalem, Shimei comes out to curse David

                                a1. Shimei sought revenge for taking Saul’s throne

                                a2. Shimei thought that this was God’s judgment

                c. Shimei does a foolish thing

                                a1. David is still king and God’s anointed

                                a2. David is traveling with an army

                                a3. It was not Shimei’s place to chastise David

                                a4. Vengeance belongs to God alone

                d. We almost never prosper when we act rashly

                                a1. Nothing could accomplish nothing by ranting

                                a2. When we are upset, it is not time to send anemail, text, or phone call

                                a3. A. Lincoln used to write letters when angry & then tear them up without sending them

                e. We are to refrain from assigning God’s judgment on people

                                a1. It is not up to us declare if any event a judgment of God (disease, fires, earthquakes, disasters…)

                                a2. David’s judgment = from his sin, not Saul’s fall

                                a3. Pv. 24:17-19 God will stop punishing if you gloat

                f. It is ironic that Shimei called David “a man of bloodshed”

                                a1. Saul was far bloodier than David, even having Doeg kill the priests & their family

                                a2. Shimei was not David’s judge

2. Off with his head

                a. Abishai, brother of Joab, wanted to take off Shimei’s head

                                a1. Why should this dog live?

                                a2. Abishai was offended by what Shimei did

                b. “What am I to do with you sons of Zeruiah?”

                                a1. Joab had murdered Abner & Amasa as revenge

                                a2. Joab knew all about Bathsheba & Uriah & other indiscretions of David

                                a3. David’s nephews were impulsive (Asahel died through pursuing Abner in battle)

                                a4. David could not control his nephews, but he could not get away from them

                                                b1. David needed Joab’s skills & insight

                                                b2. Joab was popular among the troops

3. David’s humility of the moment

                a. David shows grace by instructing Abishai to leave Shimei alone, for God may have told him to curse David

                                a1. David felt that he probably deserved to be rebuked

                                a2. At this point, David felt humbled

                b. David receives the rebuke, but later tells Solomon to make sure that Shimei does not go down into the grave in peace

                                a1. David’s momentary humility is not forgiveness

                                a2. David does not transfer Shimei to God’s accountability where it belonged

                                a3. David carried the hurt of Shimei’s rebuke to grave

                c. David stops at this spot to rest

                d. David is a mixed bag

                                a1. He is gracious to Shimei at one moment & not later

                                a2. He is foolish with his sons & family

                                a3. He is foolish with how he handled Joab & army

                                a4. David does not seem to learn these lessons

                e. By not learning from our errors we are repeat the errors

Aug 15, 2021. I Thessalonians 3:1-5

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APPOINTED TO AFFLICTION.  I Thessalonians 3:1-5.  8/15/2021.  #6.

1 Thessalonians 3:1-5 [New King James Version]

1 Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, 2 and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, 3 that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. 4 For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know. 5 For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain.

  1. Faith check
    1. Paul was very concerned about faith of Thessalonians believers
      1.  They were new to the faith
      1.  Paul was ushered out of Thess. after 3 weeks
      1.  Paul had not finished instructing them in walk
      1.  Paul had been hindered to return
    1. Paul was beside himself with concern
      1.  He knew that the new church would be under tremendous persecution and pressure
      1.  Paul feared that the Thessalonians would collapse under the trials (some may not have completely come to faith yet)
      1.  Paul had not yet fully equipped them for attacks
    1. Twice Paul states that he could not endure (bear up under or abide in) the strain of not knowing the fate of the Thessalonians
      1.  Paul sent Timothy to check on the church
      1.  Timothy was faithful, knowledgeable, and willing
    1. Paul had moved on from Berea and was now in Athens
      1.  Apparently, Timothy was excluded from Thess.
      1.  Paul suspects the worse
    1. Timothy was directed to instruct them and encourage them
      1.  Add to their training
      1.  Assure them that they could thrive under trials
  2. Trials are part of the job description for believers
    1. The Thess. were concerned about Paul
    1. They knew the trials that Paul faced in Phil. and Thess.
    1. Paul instructed church concerning affliction
      1.  They were not to be shaken by the trials
      1.  Trials were a normal part of spiritual warfare
      1.  Paul had instructed them that they were appointed (set in place, assigned to lie in it)
        1.  A part of the Christian faith
        1.  I Peter 4:12-19 persecution to be expected and even embraced
    1. Paul had told them to expect tribulation
      1.  Knowing trials would come is different than experiencing trials
      1.  Paul was concerned that the church was not yet grounded enough to endure great trials
    1. Trials are to be expected and endured
      1.  Facing persecution should not have caught the church off guard on unaware
      1.  Paul predicted what actually came to pass
      1.  Suffering tribulation is part of the Christian walk
  3. Tempted to quit
    1. Not knowing how the church was fairing caused concern
    1. Paul was concerned that the “tempter” would tempt them to back away from the faith
      1.  Paul’s work among them would be in vain
      1.  Paul wants to see fruit from his labor
    1. Three types of withdrawing from the faith:
      1.  Those who are not yet saved backing away
      1.  Those who are saved being intimidated into silence and inaction
      1.  Those who are saved conforming to the world
    1. Trials of faith have been common from the beginning: Abel, Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Jeremiah, Stephen, Paul…
    1. Paul needed to know their condition and to shore up their faith, so they could be fortified in the battle

Key verse: I Peter 4:12-1912 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 14 If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. 17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.

Aug 15, 2021. II Samuel 16:1-4

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ZIBA TAKES ALL.  II Samuel 16:1-4.  Aug 15, 2021.  #35.

II Samuel 16:1-4 [New King James Version]

1 When David was a little past the top of the mountain, there was Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth, who met him with a couple of saddled donkeys, and on them two hundred loaves of bread, one hundred clusters of raisins, one hundred summer fruits, and a skin of wine. 2 And the king said to Ziba, “What do you mean to do with these?” So Ziba said, “The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride on, the bread and summer fruit for the young men to eat, and the wine for those who are faint in the wilderness to drink.” 3 Then the king said, “And where is your master’s son?” And Ziba said to the king, “Indeed he is staying in Jerusalem, for he said, ‘Today the house of Israel will restore the kingdom of my father to me.’ ” 4 So the king said to Ziba, “Here, all that belongs to Mephibosheth is yours.” And Ziba said, “I humbly bow before you, that I may find favor in your sight, my lord, O king!”

  1. Ziba makes his move
    1. Ziba was Jonathan’s servant in charge of his household
      1.  After Jonathan died in battle, David gave all of Jonathan’s possessions to Mephibosheth
      1.  Mephibosheth was lame due to his nursemaid dropping him when she fled from the Philistine hoard
    1. Ziba meets David at the top of the ascent
      1.  He has two donkeys loaded with bread and raisins
      1.  David asks what the meaning of the supplies were
        1.  Ziba states that they are for David’s men
        1.  Ziba desires to ingratiate himself to David
  2. The Mephibosheth mystery
    1. David asks Ziba where Mephibosheth was
      1.  Mephibosheth ate at the king’s table as kindness to Jonathan’s household
      1.  Being a descendent of Saul, it was important that Mephibosheth to openly show loyalty to David
    1. Ziba claims that Mephibosheth stayed back in Jerusalem, hoping to be restored to his grandfather’s throne
      1.  David is upset, especially after the kindness he showed Mephibosheth
      1.  David then gives all of Mephibosheth’s land to David
    1. II Samuel 19 later when David returns to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth comes out to meet David
      1.  Mephibosheth is in sackcloth with ashes on him:  he has not bathed, shaved, or groomed since David left
      1.  When asked why he did not go with David, he said that since he was lame he had to wait for Ziba to saddle his donkey and bring him to David
    1. David does not know what to believe
      1.  Mephibosheth was obviously not leading a rebellion
      1.  Since Mephibosheth came out to meet David, it is odd that he could not have come on his own to David earlier or had someone else help him
    1. The truth probably is that Mephibosheth was afraid to go with David in case Absalom won the conflict
      1.  Mephibosheth sat out the conflict until he saw what would happen
      1.  When David won, Mephibosheth reappears to declare his loyalty to David
    1. Ziba had obviously lied to David
      1.  Mephibosheth was not guiltless either
      1.  David decides to split the land between Mephibosheth and Ziba, since both men were suspect
      1.  Mephibosheth claims that he is not interested in the land, only in David’s safe return
  3. Another Proverbs 18:13 problem
    1. As with Amnon, Absalom, the woman of Tekoa, and other issues, David does not wait to investigate Ziba’s claims before he makes a snap decision
      1.  Decisions made on partial information or mere appearances are almost always wrong
      1.  David never learns the art of inquiry
    1. Decisions should be made on the best information available
      1.  Investigation to find the facts
      1.  Appearances and statements may be false or partial
      1.  There are always missing facts
    1. Justice, fairness, and potential harm demand due diligence

Aug 8, 2021. I Thessalonians 2:17-20

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COSMIC WARFARE.  I Thessalonians 2:17-20.  8/8/2021.  #05.

I Thessalonians 2:17-20 [New King James Version]

17 But we, brethren, having been taken away from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored more eagerly to see your face with great desire. 18 Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? 20 For you are our glory and joy.

1. Untimely departure

                a. Once again Paul expresses regrets for having to leave them abruptly

                                a1. This was not by Paul’s choice

                                a2. Paul assures them of his longing for them

                b. Paul still wants to go back the see them

                                a1. Even though Paul was ejected from Thessalonians he felt that he could return to see them

                                a2. Paul wanted to finish the job he started in discipleship

2. Satanic warfare

                a. Paul made some actual attempts to return to Thessalonians but Satan hindered him

                b. There are several hindrances to ministry:

                                a1. Sin and self-will (Samson, Peter, Ahab…)

                                a2. Not seeking leading of Spirit (Romans 8:4)

                                a3. Interference of the world (1 John 2:15-16)

                                a4. Interference by our own flesh (Matthew 26:41)

                                a5. Opposition by satanic forces (Ephesians 6:11-12)

                c. Paul does not tell us how Satan interfered with him

                d. At times it is hard to discern why we face obstacles and struggles

                                a1. Sometimes, opposition is merely the normal trials of life (Matthew 5:45; I Corinthians 10:13)

                                a2. Sometimes, we resist the will of God or allow distractions to derail us (Luke 10:41)

                                a3. There are times we are opposed by demons and forces of darkness

                e. Paul was sure that Satan was hindering him

                                a1. Satan has been given certain powers and dominion (1 Peter 5:8)

                                a2. Jude 9 Even the Archangel Michael relied upon the Lord to rebuke Satan

                                a3. Luke 4 Satan directly opposed Jesus

                f. James 1:12-25 – not every temptation or opposition is from Satan, we sin most effectively on our own

                                a1. Genesis 3 we cannot blame Satan for our sin

                                a2. A spiritual person knows when Satan is blocking them and oppressing them

                g. God allows spiritual warfare to strengthen our faith (Job 1, Daniel 10, Ephesians 6, 1 Kings 19)

3. Light at the end of a dark tunnel

                a. Paul states that the battle is worth it

                                a1. Thessalonian believers are Paul’s joy and crown

                                a2. Christ’s coming motivates us to endure

                b. Philippians 4:4 Paul refused to be discouraged, for the glory, joy, and hope of God’s mercy, calling, and reward swallows up the trials and struggles of life

                c. Our hope in the returning Christ encourages us

                d. Paul did not focus on satanic opposition, but his calling and the return of Christ

Key verse: James 1:12-25

12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. 18 Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures. 19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. 21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.

Aug 8, 2021. II Samuel 15:24-37

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PALACE INTRIGUE.  II Samuel 15:24-37.  08/08/2021.  #34.

2 Samuel 15:24-37 [New King James Version]

24 There was Zadok also, and all the Levites with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God. And they set down the ark of God, and Abiathar went up until all the people had finished crossing over from the city. 25 Then the king said to Zadok, “Carry the ark of God back into the city. If I find favor in the eyes of the Lord, He will bring me back and show me both it and His dwelling place. 26 But if He says thus: ‘I have no delight in you,’ here I am, let Him do to me as seems good to Him.” 27 The king also said to Zadok the priest, “Are you not a seer? Return to the city in peace, and your two sons with you, Ahimaaz your son, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar. 28 See, I will wait in the plains of the wilderness until word comes from you to inform me.” 29 Therefore Zadok and Abiathar carried the ark of God back to Jerusalem. And they remained there. 30 So David went up by the Ascent of the Mount of Olives, and wept as he went up; and he had his head covered and went barefoot. And all the people who were with him covered their heads and went up, weeping as they went up. 31 Then someone told David, saying, “Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.” And David said, “O Lord, I pray, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness!” 32 Now it happened when David had come to the top of the mountain, where he worshiped God—there was Hushai the Archite coming to meet him with his robe torn and dust on his head. 33 David said to him, “If you go on with me, then you will become a burden to me. 34 But if you return to the city, and say to Absalom, ‘I will be your servant, O king; as I was your father’s servant previously, so I will now also be your servant,’ then you may defeat the counsel of Ahithophel for me. 35 And do you not have Zadok and Abiathar the priests with you there? Therefore it will be that whatever you hear from the king’s house, you shall tell to Zadok and Abiathar the priests. 36 Indeed they have there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz, Zadok’s son, and Jonathan, Abiathar’s son; and by them you shall send me everything you hear.” 37 So Hushai, D

  1. A priestly send-off
    1. Zadok, the High Priest, carried the Ark of the Covenant down to the Brook Kidron to bless David’s men in their retreat
      1.  Reminiscent of crossing Jordan by Joshua
      1.  Even though David faces the consequences of his actions, he is still God’s choice for the throne
    1. David instructs Zadok to take Ark back to the Tabernacle
      1.  The Ark belonged in the Tabernacle
      1.  Zadok is loyal to David, so David wants to use him and his priests to inform David what Abs. is doing
        1.  Zadok’s son, Ahimaaz and Abiathar’s son, Jonathan will send messages to the king
        1.  David plans his strategy to gather inform.
      1.  David tells Zadok that if God is pleased with him, he will see the Tabernacle again
        1.  If God is done with David, he won’t return
        1.  We can short-circuit our usefulness to God via sin (Moses, Eli, 1 Corinthians 11, 1 Corinthians 9:27)
    1. David can’t regain what he has lost and can’t claim what he had thrown away by his sin
    1. The priest now is also part of a spy network (citizen duties require believers to apply faith to national obligations)
  2. Ascent of tears
    1. David and those fleeing Jer. weep as they ascent Mt. of Olives
      1.  The loss of kingdom and position grieves them
      1.  David knows that this is his fault
      1.  The people must share his punishment and disgrace (many realize this, yet are still loyal to David)
    1. David is informed that Ahithophel, the grandfather of Bathsheba and chief advisor to David, is among conspirators
      1.  It would be understandable if Ahimaaz held a grudge against David for what he had done to Bathsheba
      1. Ahimaaz’s advice was always wise and effective
    1. David seemed to have had no idea that Ahimaaz would betray him – a grave blow to David
  3. Spy network
    1. David’s friend, Hushai, appears in deep mourning
      1.  He wanted to go with David
      1.  He is apparently another advisor
    1. David informs Hushai that he would just add to the burden of the people he would have to care for
      1.  Hushai would be more effective to counter the counsel of Ahithophel
        1.  He is to pretend that he would serve Absalom like he had served David
        1.  Hushai would then pass on Abs.’s plans to Zadok, who would then send Jonathan or Ahimaaz to inform David
      1.  David’s plan depends on Hushai selling his story to Absalom and then gaining Absalom’s confidence
    1. Absalom enters Jerusalem unopposed
      1.  He is confident of ultimate success and power
      1.  His loss of respect for David turns into disdain and outright rebellion
    1. No indication that Absalom is seeking the Lord
      1.  As with Eli and Samuel, David’s sons do not seem to be spiritually oriented

 David seems to have little influence over family David’s friend, went into the city. And Absalom came into Jerusalem.

Aug 1, 2021. I Thessalonians 2:13-16

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WITNESS, WORD, & WORLD.  I Thessalonians 2:13-16.  8/1/2021.  #04.

1 Thessalonians 2:13-16 [New King James Version]

13 For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe. 14 For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus. For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are [a]contrary to all men, 16 forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost.

  1. Word from God
    1. Paul taught that the foundation of the gospel witness is the belief in the evidence that scripture is God’s word
      1.  The Thessalonians did not receive the words as from Paul
      1.  They responded to the message as from God
    1. Once scripture is accepted as from God, then belief in whatever scripture teaches should follow
      1.  I Peter 4:7-19 the Word of God is self-authenticating & authoritative (Hebrews 4:12, II Timothy 3:16-17)
      1.  Isaiah 55:8-11 the Word is separated from all man’s philosophies & reasoning (Psalm 14:12; 16:25)
    1. Paul’s defense of the Word would have included evidence of its authenticity and authority
      1.  Luke 24:25-27 Jesus expounded upon all the prophesies concerning himself
      1.  Hundreds of years before the coming of Christ, the Bible prophesied his purpose (Gen. 3:15), his birth (Isaiah 7:14; Mic. 5:2), his nature (Isaiah 9:6-7), his vicarious atonement (Isaiah 53), his means of execution (Psalm 22), his resurrection (Psalm 16:10), his rule (Psalm 110:1), position (Psalm 110:4), his return (Isaiah 61:2)
      1.  Hebrews 4:12 the Word of God knows what is in the hearts of men & critiques + judges their thoughts
      1.  Psalm 119 the Word is instructive on living
      1.  James 1:22-25 the Word is a mirror to the soul
      1.  Ephesians 6:17 the Word is a sword to fight Satan
      1.  Romans 10:17 the Word is necessary to produce faith
    1. The Spirit convicted the sinner, convinced of truthfulness of the Word, drew the sinner to repentance in Christ
      1.  Paul did not convince the Thessalonians that his words were from God—the Spirit did    
      1.  Believers carry the message & the Spirit does the work (effective spiritual work)
  2. Heritage of the Church
    1. One of the odd confirmations of conversion is persecution for faith in Christ
      1.  Just as the Jewish churches were persecuted by Jews for leaving Judaism, Gentile churches were persecuted for leaving paganism
      1.  Persecution does not guarantee true faith, for people are attacked for various reasons (under Nazism, communism, tyranny, provincialism…), but persecution for faith is a hallmark of belief
    1. Men love darkness rather than light (John 3:19), so anything that convicts them of sin, they hate & attack
    1. Paul said Jews forbade him to witness to the Gentiles (they rather see them remain pagans than come to Christ)
      1.  Like killing the prophets of old, killing the messenger did not eliminate the message
      1.  Judgment can’t be avoided via silencing the witness (ignoring the Gospel = still responsible)
  3. Debt of Wrath
    1. Persecution adds to the judgment of the persecutor
      1.  Hebrews 9:27 judgment is certain & not delayed
      1.  Galatians 6:7 men reap in full measure what they sow
    1. Revelation 20:11-15 our brief discomfort is minor compared to the eternal agony of the lost & the wicked (II Corinthians 4:17)

Aug 1, 2021. II Samuel 15:13-23

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DAVID FLEES HIS SON.  II Samuel 15:13-23.  08/01/2021.  #33.

II Samuel 15:13-23 [New King James Version]

13 Now a messenger came to David, saying, “The hearts of the men of Israel are with Absalom.” 14 So David said to all his servants who were with him at Jerusalem, “Arise, and let us flee, or we shall not escape from Absalom. Make haste to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly and bring disaster upon us, and strike the city with the edge of the sword.” 15 And the king’s servants said to the king, “We are your servants, ready to do whatever my lord the king commands.” 16 Then the king went out with all his household after him. But the king left ten women, concubines, to keep the house. 17 And the king went out with all the people after him, and stopped at the outskirts. 18 Then all his servants passed before him; and all the Cherethites, all the Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men who had followed him from Gath, passed before the king. 19 Then the king said to Ittai the Gittite, “Why are you also going with us? Return and remain with the king. For you are a foreigner and also an exile from your own place. 20 In fact, you came only yesterday. Should I make you wander up and down with us today, since I go I know not where? Return, and take your brethren back. Mercy and truth be with you.” 21 But Ittai answered the king and said, “As the Lord lives, and as my lord the king lives, surely in whatever place my lord the king shall be, whether in death or life, even there also your servant will be.” 22 So David said to Ittai, “Go, and cross over.” Then Ittai the Gittite and all his men and all the little ones who were with him crossed over. 23 And all the country wept with a loud voice, and all the people crossed over. The king himself also crossed over the Brook Kidron, and all the people crossed over toward the way of the wilderness.

  1. Late arriving message
    1. After Absalom unveils his conspiracy, then a messenger arrives in Jerusalem to inform him of the plot
      1.  None of David’s servants seemed to have been aware of the growing threat to his kingdom
      1.  Only after Absalom declared himself to be king before thousands of supporters, was the treason revealed
    1. Only three possibilities why David did not know about threat:
      1.  God had blinded the eyes of David’s men to the uprising so God’s judgment would be unimpeded
      1.  David’s men were very inept in their duties to guard David and the kingdom
      1.  David’s men dismissed the warning signs as merely a prince displaying his royal heritage
    1. Often we do not want to believe warning signs: infidelity, cheating, stealing, misbehavior, threats
      1.  We ignore what in hindsight was obvious
      1.  Failure to consider and confront evidence of wrong doing allows the sin to fester and enlarge
    1. Not wanting to believe the truth is foolishness
      1.  There are always people who suspect the truth, but who remain silent for fear of being blamed
      1.  Leviticus 5:1 revealing after the fact is useless
    1. Only after the plot is in the open, is David informed
  2. Crisis of the crown
    1. David must quickly move his forces out of Jerusalem so he won’t be caught unprepared by Absalom’s army
      1.  David is informed that “all of Israel” are with Absalom
      1.  David is not prepared to face a superior force
    1. David must wonder why Israel has turned from him
      1.  David is aware of God’s pronounced judgment
      1.  Even though David has not oppressed the people, he is dishonored by the sin that runs rampant in the palace and David had lost connection with Israel
      1.  Absalom’s ability to woo the people contrasts with David’s disconnection from the people
    1. David organizes the people to flee to the wilderness
      1.  He leaves ten of his harem behind to maintain the palace and watch over David’s possessions
        1.  These will be violated by Absalom as the Lord predicted
        1.  David has little choice but to plan quickly
      1.  David will have a logistic nightmare to provide for his group in the wilderness
    1. Ironically, David fled to the wilderness due to Saul’s sin and now he flees due to his own sin (spiritual wilderness = of our own making)
  3. Loyalty amid conspiracy
    1. David had three sets of body guards he brought from his days when he ran from Saul: Pelethites from a Philistine tribe in southern Judah, Cherethites, and Gittites from Gath
      1.  These remained loyal to David throughout
      1.  Ironically, foreign subjects were true to David than many Israelites (as Uriah the Hittite was!)
    1. David tries to send the Gittites back to Gath, since this was not their fight (they were not Jews)
      1.  Ittai and his men swear not to leave David (i.e., Ruth)
      1.  David finds out who his true friends are

Jul 25, 2021. I Thessalonians 2:1-12

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PAUL’S PARENTAL CARE.  I Thessalonians 2:1-12.  7/25/2021.  #3.

1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 [New King James Version]

1 For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain. 2 But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict. 3 For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. 4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. 5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. 9 For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

1. Paul defends his ministry and message

                a. Paul was forced to leave Thessalonians before he could fully disciple them, defend his ministry and teaching, and bond with them

                                a1. The Jews tried to discredit Paul and the gospel

                                a2. Since Paul was no longer with them, he sent two letters back to them to defend his authority, teaching, genuine concern for them

                b. God had entrusted the gospel to Paul, who had not failed in his calling (he had passed the test of authenticity)

                c. When Paul was with them, he behaved devoutly, justly, blamelessly, and purely (Paul was acutely aware of his reputation and testimony)

                d. He supported himself and aides by working night and day, so that he would not be a burden to them

                                a1. Paul labored as a leather worker to make money

                                a2. Thessalonians was a poor church, so Paul did not impose

                                a3. Paul did not want to be accused of seeking gain

2. A pure gospel from a pure motivation

                a. Paul states that he had given them the authentic gospel

                                a1. There were plenty of false teachings (Jude)

                                a2. Paul had given ample proof of validity of his message

                b. Paul states 3 traits of those he preach a false gospel:

                                a1. ERROR – there are those who honestly believe in what they teach, even in error

                                                b1. They had embraced a false message

                                                b2. Cults and errant churches believe their messages without evidence of truth

                                                b3. Paul was not in error

                                a2. UNCLEANNESS (impurity) – a message that justified the sins of the messenger (idolaters)

                                                b1. The more people who follow the impure message the more justified the false teacher feels (Philippians 1:15-30)

                                                b2. Paul touted his proper morality

                                a3. DECEIT – the messenger knows that he his presenting a false message, but seeks to deceive his hearers for personal gain

                c. Paul denies being motivated by personal gain

                                a1. Not for GLORY – praise of men (Matthew 23)

                                a2. Not for GREED – to become wealthy (I Timothy 6)

3. Enduring spiritual parent

                a. Paul came to Thessalonians after being mistreated in Philippi

                                a1. The same Jews that opposed him in Philippians followed him to Thessalonica and continued their attack

                                a2. The uproar of Jews led to his expulsion from Thessalonica

                b. Paul’s response = he continued to boldly preach gospel

                                a1. He refused to allow conflict to silence him

                                a2. Galatians 6:9-10 refused to be weary in well doing

                c. Paul presented himself as a loving spiritual parent

                                a1. Gentle as a nursing mom = affectionate, bonding, giving my own life for you with his aides

                                                b1. People were not just prospects to Paul

                                                b2. Paul cared about those he taught

                                a2. As a father, he comforted, exhorted, and admonished them to bring them to maturity

                d. The ministry was not a job, but a calling of mercy and love

Key verse: Philippians 1:15-30

15 Some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from goodwill: 16 The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my chains; 17 but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice. 19 For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 20 according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. 23 For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. 24 Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, 26 that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again. 27 Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, 28 and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. 29 For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30 having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me.