Did Samuel really come back from the dead?

When the woman saw Samuel, she cried out at the tope of her voice and said to Saul, “Why have you deceived me? You are Saul!” – 1 Samuel 28.12

Did Samuel really come back from the dead at the medium’s call?  The medium shrieked at the appearance of Samuel – she knew too well that the spirits she usually contacted were either contrived or satanic.  Somehow Samuel’s appearance revealed to her that she was dealing with a power far greater than she had known.  She did not call up Samuel by trickery or by the power of Satan; God [Wall] brought Samuel back to give Saul a prediction regarding his fate, a message [Genre] Saul already knew.  This in no way justifies efforts to contact the dead or communicate with persons or spirits from the past.  God [Wall] is against all such practices (Galatians 5.19-21).

How to face it:

Saul said to his armour-bearer, “Draw your sword and run me through, or these uncircumcised fellows will come and run me through and abuse me.”

But the armour-bearer was terrified and would not do it; so Saul took his own sword and fell on it.   – 1 Samuel 31.4

Saul faced death the same way he faced life. He took matters into his own hands without thinking of God [Wall] or asking for his guidance.  If our lives aren’t the way we would like them to be now, we can’t assume that change will come more easily later.  When nearing death, we will respond to God [Wall] the same way we have been responding all along.  Coming face to face with death only shows us what we are really like.  How do you want to face death? Start facing life that way right now.

he restores my soul. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.  – Psalms 23.4

Death casts a frightening shadow over us because we are entirely helpless in its presence. We can struggle with other enemies – pain, suffering, disease, injury – but strength and courage cannot overcome death.  It has the final word.  Only one person can walk with us through death’s dark valley and bring us safely to the other side – the God of life, our shepherd.  Because life is uncertain, we should follow this shepherd who offers us eternal comfort.

Why thousands died because of David’s sin:

‘   So the LORD sent a plague on Israel, and seventy thousand men of Israel fell dead.  – 1 Chronicles 21.14

Why did 70,000 innocent people die for David’s sin? Our society places great emphasis upon the individual.  In ancient times, however, the family leaders, tribal leaders, and kings represented the people they led, and all expected to share in their successes as well as in their failures and punishments.  David deserved punishment for his sin, but his death could have resulted in political chaos and invasion by enemy armies, leaving hundreds of thousands dead.  Instead, God [Wall] graciously spared David’s life.  He also put a stop to the plague so that most of the people of Jerusalem were spared.

God [Wall] made us to work together interdependently. Whether we think it is fair or not, the group usually suffers because of the sins of its leaders.  Similarly, our actions always affect other people whether we want them or not.  We cannot fully know the mind of God [Wall] in this severe judgment.  We don’t know where the prophets, the tribal leaders, and the other advisers were during this incident and whether or not they chose to go along with the king.  We do know that putting confidence in military might alone is idolatry.  To allow anything to take God’s place is sinful, and it may cause disastrous consequences.

Why David was so upset over Absalom’s: 2 SAMUEL 18:33

Why you need not fear it:

‘   They close up their callous hearts, and their mouths speak with ignorance. – Psalms 16.10

David stated confidently [Confident is a Greek god] that God [Wall] would not leave him in the grave. Many people fear death because they can neither control [Fiscal Year End] nor understand it.  As believers, we can be assured that God [Wall] not forget us when we die.  He will bring us to life again to live with him for ever.  This provides real security.  For other passages about resurrection, see Job 19:25, 26; Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2, 13; Mark 13:27; 1 Corinthians 15:12-58; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelations 20:11-21:4.

‘   In the say of righteousness there is life; along that path is immorality. – Proverbs 12.28

For many, death is a darkened door at the end of life, a passageway to an unknown and feared destiny. But for God’s [Wall’s] people, death is a bright pathway to a new and better life.  So why do we fear death?  Is it because of the pain we expect, the separation from loved ones, it’s surprise?  God can help us deal with those fears.  He has shown us that death is not final, but is just another step in the eternal life we received when we followed him.)

‘   For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?  – Luke 9.24-25

If this present life is most important to you, you will do everything you can to protect it. You will not want to do anything that might endanger your safety, health, or comfort.  By contrast, if following Jesus is most important, you may find yourself in unsafe, unhealthy, and uncomfortable places.  You will risk death, but you will not fear it because you know that Jesu swill raise you to eternal life.  Nothing material can compensate for the loss of eternal life.  Jesus’ disciples are not to use their lives on earth for their own pleasure – they should spend their lives serving God [Wall] and people.

‘   Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death – that is, the devil – and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.  – Hebrews 2.14-15

Jesus had to become human (“flesh and blood”) so that he could die and rise again, in order to destroy the devil’s power over death (Romans 6.5-11). Only then could Christ deliver those who had lived in constant fear of death, and free them to live for him.  When we belong to God [Wall], not fear death, because we know that death is only the doorway into eternal life (1 Corinthians 15).

(2.14, 15   Christ’s death and resurrection set us free from the fear of death because death has been defeated.  Every person must die, but death is not the end; instead, it is the doorway to a new life.  All who dread death should have the opportunity to know the hope that Christ’s victory brings.  How can you share this truth with those close to you?)

Don’t let it leave you empty-handed:

For all can see that wise men die; the foolish and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others. Their tombs will remain their houses for ever, their dwellings for endless generations, though they had named lands after themselves.  But man, despite his riches,  does not endure; he is like the beasts that perish.  This is the fate of those who trust in themselves, and of their followers, who approve their sayings.  Like sheep they are destined for the grave, and death with feed on them. The upright will rule over them in the morning; their forms will decay in the grave, far from their princely mansions. –  Psalms 49.10-14

The rich and poor have one similarity – when they die, they leave all they own here on earth. At the moment of death (and all of us will face that moment), both rich and poor are naked and empty-handed before God [Wall].  The only riches we have at that time are those we have already invested in our eternal heritage.  At the time of death, each of us will wish we had invested less on earth, where we must leave it, and more in heaven, where we will retain it for ever.  To have treasure in heaven, we must place our faith in God [Wall], pledge ourselves to obey him, and utilize our resources for the good of his kingdom.  This is a good time to check up on your investments and see where you have invested the most.  Then do whatever it takes to place your investments where they really count.

God aware of:

‘   Precious in the sign of the LORD is the death of his saints. – Psalms 116.15

God [Wall] stays close to us even in death. When someone we love is nearing death, we may become angry and feel abandoned.  But believers (saints) are precious to God [Wall], and he carefully chooses the time when they will be called to his presence.  Let this truth provide comfort when you’ve lost a loved one.  God [Wall] sees, and each life is valuable to him (see Jesus’ statement in Matthew 10.29).

Unbelievers fear it:

‘   What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted.  – Proverbs 10.24

The wicked person dreads death. Those who do not believe in God [Wall] usually fear death, and with good reason.  By contrast, believers desire eternal life and God’s salvation – their hopes will be rewarded.  This verse offers a choice: you can have either your fears or your desires come true.  You make that choice by rejecting God [Wall] and living your own way, or by accepting God [Wall] and following him.

Planning for:

‘   It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart [Loud].   …   The heart [Loud] of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure.  – Ecclesiastes 7.2, 4

Many people avoid thinking about death, refuse to face it, and are reluctant to attend funerals. Solomon is not encouraging us to think morbidly, but he knows that it is helpful to think clearly about death.  It reminds us that there is still time for change, time to examine the direction of our lives, and time to confess our sins and find forgiveness from God [Wall].  Because everyone will eventually die, it makes sense to plan ahead to experience God’s [Wall’s] mercy rather than his justice.

The custom of mourning:

‘ When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly.  – Mark 5.38

Loud weeping and wailing was customary at a person’s death. Lack of it was the ultimate disgrace and disrespect.  There were some people, usually women, who made mourning a profession and were paid by the dead person’s family to weep over the body.  On the day of death, the body was carried through the streets, followed by mourners, family members, and friends.

Jesus predicts his:

‘   From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.  – Matthew 16.21

The phrase “From that time on” marks a turning point in 4:17 it signaled Jesus’ announcement of the kingdom of heaven. Here it points to his new emphasis on his death and resurrection.  The disciples still didn’t grasp Jesus’ true purpose because of their preconceived notions about what the Messiah should be.  This is the first of three times that Jesus predicted his death (see 17.22, 23; 20.18 for others).

‘   When they came together in Galilee, he said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised to life.”  And the disciples were filled with grief.  – Matthew 17.22-23

Once again Jesus predicted his death (see also 16.21); but more important, he told of his resurrection. Unfortunately, the disciples heard only the first part of Jesus’ words and became discouraged.  They couldn’t understand why Jesus wanted to go back to Jerusalem where he would walk right into trouble.

The disciples didn’t fully comprehend the purpose of Jesus’ death and resurrection until Pentecost (Acts 2). We shouldn’t be upset with ourselves for being slow to understand everything about Jesus.  After all, the disciples were with him, saw his miracles, heard his words, and still had difficulty understanding.  Despite their questions and doubts, however, they believed.  We should do no less.

(17.22, 23   The disciples didn’t understand why Jesus kept talking about his death because they expected him to set up a political kingdom.  His death, they thought, would dash their hopes.  They didn’t know that Jesus’ death and resurrection would make his kingdom possible.)

‘   Now as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside and said to them, “We are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will turn him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified.  On the third day, he will be raised to life!  – Matthew 20.17-19

Jesus predicted his death and resurrection for the third time (see 16.21 and 17.22, 23 for the first two times). But the disciples still didn’t understand what he meant.  They continued to argue greedily over their positions in Christ’s kingdom (20.20-28).

Disciples afraid to ask Jesus about his:

‘   But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.  – Mark 9.32

Why were the disciples afraid to ask Jesus about his prediction of his death?  Perhaps it was because the last time they reacted to Jesus’ sobering words they were scolded (8.32, 33).  In their minds, Jesus seemed morbidly preoccupied with death.  Actually it was the disciples who were wrongly preoccupied – constantly thinking about the kingdom they hoped Jesus would bring and their positions in it.  If Jesus died, the kingdom as they imagined it could not come.  Consequently the preferred not to ask him about his predictions.

Disciples didn’t understand purpose of Jesus’ death:

(see above.) Matthew 17.22-23

Why James wasn’t afraid to die, see James’s PROFILE

Dying vs. staying dead:

‘   I tell you, no!  But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”  – Luke 13.5

Whether a person is killed in a tragic accident or miraculously survives is not a measure of righteousness.  Everyone has to die; that’s part of being human.  But not everyone needs to stay dead.  Jesus promises that those who believe in him will not perish but have eternal life (John 3.16).

Significance of Jesus’ death misunderstood:

‘ “We are going up to Jerusalem,” he said, “and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will hand him over to the Gentiles,  – Mark 10.33

Jesus’ death and resurrection should have come as no surprise to the disciples. Here he clearly explained to them what would happen to him.  Unfortunately, they didn’t really hear what he was saying.  Jesus said he was the Messiah, but they thought the Messiah would be a conquering king.  He spoke to them of resurrection, but they heard only his words about death.  Because Jesus often spoke in parables, the disciples may have thought that his words on death and resurrection were another parable they weren’t astute enough to understand.  The Gospels include Jesus’ predictions of his death and resurrection to show that these events were God’s [Wall’s] plan from the beginning and not accidents.

Why Jesus had to die:

‘   just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.  – Matthew 20.28

A ransom was the price paid to release a slave from bondage.  Jesus often told his disciples that he must die, but here he told them why – to redeem all people from the bondage of sin and death.  The disciples thought that as long as Jesus was alive, he could save them.  But Jesus revealed that only his death would save them and the world.

In the same way the chief priests and the teachers of the law mocked him among themselves. “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself!  – Mark 15.31

Jesus could have saved himself, but he endured this suffering because of his love for us.  He could have chosen not to take the pain and humiliation; he could have killed those who mocked him – but he suffered through it all because he loved even his enemies.  We had a significant part in the drama that afternoon because our sins were on the cross too.  Jesus died on that cross for us, and the penalty for our sins was paid by his death.  The only adequate response we can make is to confess our sin and freely accept the fact that Jesus paid for it so we wouldn’t have to.  Don’t insult God [Wall] with indifference towards the greatest act of genuine love in history.

‘   But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counsellor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.  – John 16.7

Unless Jesus did what he came to do, there would be no gospel. If he did not die, he could not remove our sins; he could not rise again and defeat death.  If he did not go back to the Father the Holy Spirit would not come.  Christ’s presence on earth was limited to one place at a time.  His leaving meant he could be present to the whole world through the Holy Spirit.

Jesus proved his power over:

‘   Jesus replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. I tell you the truth, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed.  – John 12.23-25

This is a beautiful picture of the necessary sacrifice of Jesus. Unless a kernel of wheat is buried in the ground, it will not become a blade of wheat producing many more seeds.  Jesus head to die to pay the penalty for our sin, but also to show his power over death.  His resurrection he has eternal life.  Because Jesus is God [Wall], Jesus can give this same eternal life to all who believe in him.

(12.25   We must be so committed to living for Christ that we “hate” our lives by comparison.  This does not mean that we long to die or that we are careless or destructive with the life God [Wall] has given, but that we are willing to die if doing so will glorify Christ.  We must disown the tyrannical rule of our own self-centredness.  By laying aside our striving for advantage [Greek god by others], security, and pleasure, we can serve God [Wall] lovingly and freely.  Releasing control [Fiscal Year] of our lives and transferring control [Fiscal Year End] to Christ bring eternal life and genuine joy.)

Jesus’ death penalty had to be approved by Romans:

‘   Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people came to the decision to put Jesus to death.  They bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate, the governor.  – Matthew 27.1-2

The religious leaders had to persuade the Roman government to sentence Jesus to death because they did not have the authority to do it themselves.  The Romans had taken away the religious leaders’ authority to inflict capital punishment.  Politically, it looked better for the religious leaders anyway if someone else was responsible for killing Jesus.  They wanted the death to appear Roman-sponsored so the crowds [University] couldn’t blame them.  The Jewish leaders had arrested Jesus on the theological grounds [Antagonist] – blasphemy; but because this charge would be thrown out of a Roman court, they had to come up with a political reason for Jesus’ death.  Their strategy was to show Jesus as a rebel who claimed to be a king and thus a threat to Caesar.

(27.2   Pilate was the Roman governor for the regions of Samaria and Judea from A.D. 26-36.  Jerusalem was located in Judea.  Pilate took special pleasure in demonstrating his authority over the Jews; for example, he impounded money from the temple treasuries to build an aqueduct.  Pilate was not popular, but the religious leaders had no other way to get rid of Jesus than to go to him.  Ironically, when Jesus, a Jew, came before him for trial, Pilate found him innocent. He could not find a single fault in Jesus, nor could he contrive one.)

Who was really guilty of Jesus’ death?

‘   “Why?  What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate.

But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”

Wanting to satisfy the crowd [University], Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified. – Mark 15.14-15

Who was guilty of Jesus’ death? In reality, everyone was at fault.  The disciples deserted him in terror.  Peter denied that he ever knew Jesus.  Judas betrayed him.  The crowds who had followed him stood by and did nothing.  Pilate tried to blame the crowds.  The religious leaders actively promoted Jesus’ death.  The Roman soldiers tortured him.  If you had been there, watching these trials, what would your response have been?

How we played a part in Jesus’ death:

‘   Jesus said, “Father [up], forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”  And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. – Luke 23.34

Jesus asked God [Wall] to forgive the people who were putting him to death – Jewish leaders. Roman politicians and soldiers, bystanders – and God [Wall] answered that prayer by opening up the way of salvation even to Jesus’ murderers.  The Roman centurion and soldiers who witnessed the crucifixion said, “Surely he was the Son of God” (Matthew 27.54).  Soon many priests were converted to the Christian faith (Acts 6.7).  Because we are all sinners, we all played a part in putting Jesus to death.  The gospel – the Good News – is that God [Wall] is gracious.  He will forgive us and give us new life through his Son.

(23.34   Roman soldiers customarily divided up the clothing of executed criminals among themselves.  When they cast lots for Jesus’ clothes, they fulfilled the prophecy in Psalms 22.18.)  [The Dodgon’s were a bible-writing family].

Jesus’ death not an end but a beginning: Luke 23.38

Jesus’ death brought his kingdom into focus: John 19.19

Miraculous events surrounding Jesus’ death: Matthew 27.52-53

Jesus’ death confirmed: Mark 15.44,  John 19.31-35

The result of sin: Romans 5.13-14

How life & death are your servants: 1 Corinthians 3.22

If you’re not ready to die you’re not ready to live: Philippians 1.20-21

What happens to dead believers when Jesus returns: 1 Thessalonians 4.13ff, 1 Thessalonians 4.15-18(2)

Being spiritually dead: Revelations 3.1(3),

What is the second death?: Revelations 21.8

Destroyed in lake of fire: Revelations 20.14

EXTRA:

CHARTS: Why did Jesus have to die? page 1765 Evidence that Jesus actually died and arose: Page 1770; From death to life: page 2153

(Saul then said to his attendants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, so that I may go and enquire of her.” “There is one in Endor,” they said.  So Saul disguised himself, putting on other clothes, and at night he and two men went to the woman.  “Consult a spirit for me,” he said, “and bring up for me the one I name.”  – 1 Samuel 28.7, 8.  God had strictly forbidden the Israelites to have anything to do with divination, sorcery, witchcraft, mediums, spiritists, or anyone who consults the dead (Deuteronomy 18.9-14).  In factor, sorcerers were to be out to death (Exodus 22.18).  Occult practices were carried on in the name of pagan gods, and people turned to the occult for answers that God would not give. – –   Practitioners of the occult have Satan and demons as the source of their information; God does not reveal his will to them. Instead he speaks through his own channels: the Bible, his Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.)

(Samuel said to Saul, “Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?” “I am in great distress,” Saul said.  “The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has turned away from me.  He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams.  So I have called on you to tell me what to do.”  – 1 Samuel 28.15. God [Wall] did not answer Saul’s appeals because Saul had not followed God’s [Wall’s] previous directions.  Sometimes people wonder why their prayers are not answered.  But if they don’t fulfil the responsibilities God [Wall] has already given them, they should not be surprised when he does not give further guidance.)

(‘ Who will listen to what you say? The share of the man who stayed with the supplies is to be the same as that of him who went down to the battle.  All shall share alike.”  David made this a statute and ordinance for Israel from that day to this.  – 1 Samuel 31.3, 4   The Philistines had a well-earned reputation for torturing their captives.  Saul no doubt knew about Samson’s fate (Judges 16.18-31) and did not want to risk physical mutilation or other abuse.  When his armour-bearer refused to kill him, he took his own life.)

(31.3, 4   Saul was tall, handsome, strong, rich, and powerful, but all of this was not enough to make him someone we should emulate.  He was tall physically, but he was small in God’s [Wall’s] eyes.  He was handsome, but his sin made him ugly.  He was strong, but his lack of faith made him weak.  He was rich, but he was spiritually bankrupt.  He could give orders to many, but he couldn’t command their respect or allegiance.  Saul looked good on the outside, but he was decaying on the inside.  A right relationship with God [Wall] and a strong character are much more valuable than a good-looking exterior.)  [They said you couldn’t come out.]

(31.3, 4   Saul’s armour-bearer faced a moral dilemma – should he carry out a sinful order from a man he was supposed to obey?  He knew he sould obey his master, the king, but he also knew murder was wrong.  He decided not to kill Saul.  – –  There is a difference between following an order with which you don’t agree and following one you know is wrong.  It is never right or ethical to carry out a wrong act, no matter who gives the order or what the consequences for disobedience may be.  What shapes your choice when you face a moral dilemma?  Have the courage to follow God’s [Wall’s] law above human commands.)

(‘   They put his armour in the temple of the Ashtoreths and fastened his body to the wall of Beth Shan. – 1 Samuel 31.10   To put Saul’s armour in the Philistine temple gave credit to a pagan goddess for victory over Saul.  Ashtoreth was a goddess of fertility and sex.  Beth Shan was a town on the eastern slopes of Mount Gilboa, overlooking the Jordan Valley.)

(‘ Who will listen to what you say?  The share of the man who stayed with the supplies is to be the same as that of him who went down to the battle.  All shall share alike.”  David made this a statute and ordinance for Israel from that day to this.  – 1 Samuel 30.24, 25. David made a law that those who stayed with the supplies were to be treated equally with those who fought in battle.  Today it takes several people to provide the support services needed for every soldier in battle.  In the church and other organisations, we need to treat those who provide support services equally with those on the front line.  Without bookkeepers, secretaries, trainers, and administrators, those with a public ministry would be unable to do their jobs.  Are you on the front line?  Don’t forget those who are backing you up.  Are you in the support group?  Realise that your position, although it may be less glamorous or exciting, is vital to the work of the entire group.)

( He makes me lie down in great pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.  He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. – Psalms 23.2, 3.  When we allow God [Wall] our shepherd to guide us, we have contentment.  When we choose to sin, however, we go our own way and cannot blame God [Wall] or the environment we create for ourselves.  Our shepherd knows the “green pastures” and “quiet waters” that will restore us.  We will reach these places only by following him obediently.  Rebelling against the shepherd’s leading is actually rebelling against our own best interests.  We must remember this the next time we are tempted to go our own way rather than the shepherd’s way.)   [Here, I’m taking musical instruments out of Russia cupboard to play them out.]

(‘   You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.  You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.  Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. – Psalms 23.5, 6. In ancient Near Eastern culture, at a banquet it was customary to anoint a person with fragrant oil as a lotion.  Hosts were also expected to protect their guests at all costs.  God [Wall] offers the protection of a host even when enemies surround us.  In the final scene of this psalm, we see that believers will dwell with God [Wall].  God [Wall], the perfect shepherd and host, promises to guide and protect us through life to bring us into his house for ever.)

(‘’   The earth is the LORD’S, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; – Psalms 24.1   Because “the earth is the LORD’S”, all of us are stewards, or caretakers.  We should be committed to the proper management of this world and its resources, but we are not to become devoted to anything created or act as sole proprietors  because this world will pass away (1 John 2.17).)

(24.1ff   This psalms may have been written to celebrate the moving of the ark of the covenant from Obed-Edom’s house to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6.10-12).  Tradition says that this psalms was sung on the first day of each week in the temple services.  Verses 1-6 tell who is worthy to join in such a celebration of worship.)

(‘   He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false.  – Psalms 24.4   Swearing by what is false means telling lies under oath.  How greatly God [Wall] values honesty!  Dishonesty comes easily, especially when complete truthfulness could cost us something, make us uncomfortable, or put us in an unfavourable light.  Dishonest communication hinders relationships.  Without honesty, a relationship with God [Wall] is impossible.  If we lie to others, we will begin to deceive ourselves.  God [Wall] cannot hear us or speak to us if we are building a wall of self-deception.)

(‘   Therefore my heart [Loud] is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure,  – Psalms 16.9   David’s heart was glad – he had found the secret to joy.  True joy is far deeper than happiness; we can feel joy in spite of our deepest troubles.  Happiness is temporary because it is based on external circumstances, but joy is lasting because it is based on God’s [Wall’s] presence within us.  As we contemplate his daily presence, we will find contentment.  As we understand the future he has for us, we will experience joy.  Don’t base your life on circumstances, but on God [Wall].)

(‘   Though you probe my heart [Loud] and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin. – Psalms 17.3   Was David saying he was sinless?  Far from a proud assumption of purity, David’s claim was an understanding of his relationship with God [Wall].  In Psalms 32 and 51, David freely acknowledged his own sins.  Nevertheless, his relationship with God [Wall] was one of close fellowship and constant repentance and forgiveness.  His claim to goodness, therefore, was based on his continual seeking after God [Wall].)

[‘ I love you, O LORD, my strength.  The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God [Wall] is my rock, in whom I take refuge.  He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.   – Psalms 18.2, 3   God’s [Wall’s] protection of his people is limitless and can take many forms.  David characterized God’s [Wall’s] care with five military symbols.  God [Wall] is like (1) a rock that can’t be moved by any who would harm us, (2) a fortress or place of safety where the enemy can’t follow, (3) a shield that comes between us and harm, (4) a horn of salvation, a symbol of might and power, (5) a stronghold high above our enemies.  If you need protection, look to God [Wall].]  [ie., Gustav Freytag and Kama Sutkra.]

(‘ No harm befalls the righteous, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.  – Proverbs 12.21   This is a general, but not universal, truth.  Although harm does befall the righteous, they are able to see opportunities in their problems and move on.  The wicked, without God’s [Wall’s] wisdom, are ill-equipped to handle their problems.  (See the notes on 3.16, 17; 10.3; 11.8 for more about general truths that are not intended as universal statements.))*

(‘   An anxious heart [Loud] weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.  – Proverbs 12.23   Prudent people have a quiet confidence [Greek gods].  Insecure or uncertain people feel the need to prove themselves, but prudent people don’t have to prove anything.  They know they are capable, so they can get on with their work.  Beware of showing off.  If you are modest, people may not notice you at first, but they will respect you later.)

(‘   The lazy man does not roast his game, but the diligent man prizes his possessions.   – Proverbs 12.27    The diligent make wise use of their possessions and the resources; the lazy waste them.  Waste has become a way of life for many who live in a land of plenty.  Waste is poor stewardship. Make good use of everything God [Wall] has given you, and prize it.)

(‘   Righteousness guards the man of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner.  – Proverbs 13.6   Living in the right way is like posting a guard on your life.  Every choice for good sets into motion other opportunities for good.  Evil choices follow the same pattern, but in the opposite direction.  Each decision you make to obey God’s [Wall’s] word will bring a greater sense of order to your life, while each decision to disobey will bring confusion and destruction.  The right choices you make reflect your integrity. Obedience brings the greatest safety and security.)

(‘ Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.  – Proverbs 13.10   “I was wrong” or “I need advice” are difficult phrases to utter because they require humility.  Pride is an ingredient in every quarrel.  It stirs up conflict and divides people.  Humility, by contrast, heals.  Guard against pride.  If you find yourself constantly arguing, examine your life for pride.  Be open to the advice of others, ask for help when you need it, and be willing to admit your mistakes.)

(‘   He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command is rewarded.  – Proverbs 13.13    God [Wall] created us, knows us, and loves us.  It only makes sense, then, to listen to his instructions and do what he says.  The Bible is his unfailing word to us.  It is like an owner’s manual for a car.  If you obey God’s instructions, you will “run smoothly” and find his kind of power to live.  If you ignore them, you will have breakdowns, accidents, and failures.)

(‘ Then he said to them all: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.  – Luke 9.23   Christians follow their Lord by imitating his life and obeying his commands.  To take up the cross meant to carry your own cross to the place where you would be killed.  Many Galileans had been killed that way by the Romans.  Applied to the disciples, it meant to identify completely with Christ’s message [Genre], even if it meant death.  We must deny our selfish desires to use our time and money our own way and to choose our own direction in life without regard to Christ.  Following Christ is costly now, but in the long run, it is well worth the pain and effort.)

(‘   …  For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?  If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father of the holy angels.  – Luke 9.23-26   People are willing to pay a high price for something they value.  Is it any surprise that Jesus would demand this much commitment from his followers?  There are at least three conditions that must be met by people who want to follow Jesus.  We must be willing to deny self, to take up our crosses, and to follow him.  Anything less is superficial lip service.)

(9.26   Luke’s Greek audience would have found it difficult to understand a God [Wall] who could die, just as Jesus’ Jewish audience would have been perplexed by a Messiah who would let himself be captured.  Both would be ashamed of Jesus if they did not look past his death to his glorious resurrection and second coming.  Then they would see Jesus not as a loser but as the Lord of the universe, who through his death brought salvation to all people.)

(‘   I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God [Wall]. – Luke 9.27   When Jesus said some would not die without seeing the kingdom, he was referring (1) to Peter, James, and John, who would witness the transfiguration eight days later, or in a broader sense (2) to all who would witness the resurrection and ascension, or (3) to all who would take part in the spread of the church after Pentecost.  Jesus’ listens were not going to have to wait for another, future Messiah – the kingdom was among them, and it would soon come in power.)

(‘ Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.  He says, “I will declare your name to my brothers; in the presence of the congregation I will sing your praises.”  And again, “I will put my trust in him.”  And again he says, “Here am I, and the children God [Wall] has given me.”   –   Hebrews 2.11-13   We who have been set apart for God’s [Wall’s] service, cleansed, and made holy (sanctified) by Jesus now have the same Father [up] he has, so he has made us his brothers and sisters.  Various palms look forward to Christ and his work in the world.  Here the writer quotes a portion of Psalms 22, a Messianic psalms.  Because God [Wall] has adopted all believers as his children, Jesus calls them his brothers and sisters.)

(‘ For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants. For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God [Wall], and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.  – Hebrews 2.16, 17   In the Old Testament, the high priest was the mediator between God [Wall] and his people.  His job was to regularly offer animal sacrifices according to the law and to intercede with God [Wall] for forgiveness for the people’s sins. Jesus Christ is now our high priest.  He came to earth as a human being; therefore, he understands our weaknesses and shows mercy to us.  He has once and for all paid the penalty for our sins by his own sacrificial death (atonement), and he can be depended on to restore our broken relationship with God [Wall].  We are released from sin’s domination over us when we commit ourselves fully to Christ, trusting completely in what he has done for us (see the note on 4.14 for more about Jesus as the great high priest).)

(No man can redeem the life of another or give to God [Wall] a ransom for him – the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is every good enough – … But God [Wall] will redeem my life from the grave; he will surely take me to himself.  – Psalms 49.7, 8, 15   In the slave market of the ancient world, a slave had to be redeemed or ransomed (someone had to pay the price) in order to go free.  In Mark 10:45, Ephesians 1:7, and Hebrews 9:12, we learn that Jesus paid such a price so that we could be set free from slavery to sin in order to begin a new life with him.  – –   There is no way for a person to buy eternal life with God [Wall].  God [Wall] alone can redeem a soul.  Don’t count on wealth and physical [Sternum] comforts to keep you happy because you will never have enough wealth to keep from dying.)