Week 43
|
Welcome to Week 43 of the Cover to Cover Challenge!
Psalm 119:125 says “I am Your servant, give me understanding, that I may know Your testimonies”. What an encouragement to each of us as we continue to study the Word of God together! Let us keep praying for the Lord to be glorified, and for the Lord to speak to each of us as we seek His face. |
|
Sunday • Psalms 119:121-152
In Psalm 119:121-128 the psalmist longs to be delivered from the proud, who oppress him. He loves God’s word and proclaims that it is more valuable than the purest gold. The psalmist also believes what God’s word says to be the truth. In verses 129-136 the psalmist states the many benefits of God’s words. They give light and understanding (v130), they give direction to avoid sin (v133), they relieve oppression (v134), and they teach us (v135). The psalmist is also brokenhearted over those who do not keep God’s word. In verses 137-144 the psalmist knows that God is righteous, upright (trustworthy), and faithful even in his adversity. As the psalmist’s adversity increases, so does his dedication to God’s word. It is in it that he finds delight in the middle of difficult circumstances. In verses 145-152 the psalmist cries out continually through the night for God to hear and to deliver him from the wicked. He meditates on God’s word, because it is there that he finds hope in his trials.
In Psalm 119:121-128 the psalmist longs to be delivered from the proud, who oppress him. He loves God’s word and proclaims that it is more valuable than the purest gold. The psalmist also believes what God’s word says to be the truth. In verses 129-136 the psalmist states the many benefits of God’s words. They give light and understanding (v130), they give direction to avoid sin (v133), they relieve oppression (v134), and they teach us (v135). The psalmist is also brokenhearted over those who do not keep God’s word. In verses 137-144 the psalmist knows that God is righteous, upright (trustworthy), and faithful even in his adversity. As the psalmist’s adversity increases, so does his dedication to God’s word. It is in it that he finds delight in the middle of difficult circumstances. In verses 145-152 the psalmist cries out continually through the night for God to hear and to deliver him from the wicked. He meditates on God’s word, because it is there that he finds hope in his trials.
Monday • Deuteronomy 4-6
In Deuteronomy 4:1-8, Moses speaks about the importance of obedience. Obedience does not earn salvation, but does give people wisdom and understanding and it brings blessings to the people. They were to teach God’s law to their children because of the benefits associated with knowing and obeying it (v9-13). Moses also warns them of keeping themselves from idols (v15-31). They were not to make anything to worship, or worship anything God had made. Worshiping idols would (and did) lead to them losing their land. Only those who look to God and repent will experience the blessings of God. In verses 32-40, Moses speaks about the works of God throughout the history of Israel. He does this so the people of Israel will learn from the past as they enter Canaan. In verses 41-49 Moses established cities of refuge on the eastern side of the Jordan River.
In Deuteronomy 5:1-5 Moses speaks to this generation of Israelites the same way the original hearers heard it. They did not just inherit the covenant, it was specifically for them as well. The Ten Commandments can be seen as a summary of the entire law of God because every law given by God is an expression of these (v6-22). In verses 23-33 Moses recalls the scene at Mount Sinai where the law had been given. The people feared (awe) God and asked Moses to intervene for them. This type of fear (awe) is reverencing God because of who He is. God commends them for fearing Him because they should always have this type of fear (awe) before God. With this type of fear the people should respond in obedience.
After recounting the previous generations’ experience with God to the generation present in chapter 5, Moses will now speak to the current generation about the future generation in chapter 6. In verses 1-9 the parents are to teach their children about God and their relationship with Him (v4-5). Parents must be intentional about passing on their faith to their children and teach it to them until it is understood. In every context of life parents can teach their children lessons about loving God. In verses 10-25 the parents are told themselves to keep walking with God and not be disobedient. They are to trust the Lord in and with everything. With each generation to come they will be able to tell how God had blessed them and watched over them.
In Deuteronomy 4:1-8, Moses speaks about the importance of obedience. Obedience does not earn salvation, but does give people wisdom and understanding and it brings blessings to the people. They were to teach God’s law to their children because of the benefits associated with knowing and obeying it (v9-13). Moses also warns them of keeping themselves from idols (v15-31). They were not to make anything to worship, or worship anything God had made. Worshiping idols would (and did) lead to them losing their land. Only those who look to God and repent will experience the blessings of God. In verses 32-40, Moses speaks about the works of God throughout the history of Israel. He does this so the people of Israel will learn from the past as they enter Canaan. In verses 41-49 Moses established cities of refuge on the eastern side of the Jordan River.
In Deuteronomy 5:1-5 Moses speaks to this generation of Israelites the same way the original hearers heard it. They did not just inherit the covenant, it was specifically for them as well. The Ten Commandments can be seen as a summary of the entire law of God because every law given by God is an expression of these (v6-22). In verses 23-33 Moses recalls the scene at Mount Sinai where the law had been given. The people feared (awe) God and asked Moses to intervene for them. This type of fear (awe) is reverencing God because of who He is. God commends them for fearing Him because they should always have this type of fear (awe) before God. With this type of fear the people should respond in obedience.
After recounting the previous generations’ experience with God to the generation present in chapter 5, Moses will now speak to the current generation about the future generation in chapter 6. In verses 1-9 the parents are to teach their children about God and their relationship with Him (v4-5). Parents must be intentional about passing on their faith to their children and teach it to them until it is understood. In every context of life parents can teach their children lessons about loving God. In verses 10-25 the parents are told themselves to keep walking with God and not be disobedient. They are to trust the Lord in and with everything. With each generation to come they will be able to tell how God had blessed them and watched over them.
Tuesday • 2 Kings 11-15
In 2 Kings 11:1-3, after the death of Ahaziah, Athaliah (daughter of Jezebel) his mother reigned over Judah after killing all the heirs (her grandchildren). Jehosheba the wife of the high priest Jehoiada hid Ahaziah’s son Joash so he would not be killed. After six years, Jehoiada makes a plan to anoint Joash king of Judah and to kill Athaliah (v4-12). In verses 13-16 Athaliah is killed by the sword, and Joash is crowned king of Judah. In verses 17-21, Jehoiada led the king and the people to be allegiant to God and to the Davidic line. The temple to Baal was destroyed and the high priest of Baal, Mattan was killed.
2 Kings 12 continues the story of Joash. In verses 1-6 he makes preparations to fund the repairing of the temple. After 23 years the task still had not been completed, so Joash commanded a chest be set aside for the collection of an offering to fund the repairs (v7-16). Soon there was plenty of money and workers began the work to repair the temple. In verses 17-21 Hazael the Syrian king came to make war on Jerusalem. Joash takes the royal treasury and gives it to Hazael as payment and avoids the war. What 2 Kings 12 does not tell is that after the death of Jehoiada the high priest, Joash began to worship other gods (2 Chron.24). This is the reason Hazael and the Syrians came against Israel.
In 2 Kings 13:1-9 Jehoahaz becomes king of Israel. Because he walked in the ways of Jeroboam, God allowed Hazael the king of Syria to trouble him during all of his reign. He did seek the Lord during this conflict and God showed Israel mercy. After his death, his son Jehoash reigns in Israel for 16 years (v10-25). When hearing of Elisha’s coming death Jehoash goes to visit him. Through symbolic actions, Elisha predicts the coming victories over the Syrians. In verses 20-21 a dead man is lowered into Elisha’s grave and when he comes in contact with his bones is restored to life.
2 Kings 14:1-7 records the beginning of the reign of Amaziah as king of Judah as he defeats the Edomites. 2 Chronicles 25 records that while he did win the victory over the Edomites, he also began to worship their gods. After winning this victory Amaziah, in his pride, goes to war with Jehoash king of Israel (v8-22). Amaziah and Judah would be defeated by Jehoash and Israel in this battle as God was showing Amaziah and Judah not to trust in foreign gods. In verses 23-29 Jeroboam II would reign in Israel for 41 years. It is during his reign that God showed them mercy and restored the land back to them that they had lost as predicted by Jonah. This shows that even though people are unfaithful to God, He will never be unfaithful to His word.
2 Kings 15:1-7 records the reign of Uzziah (Azariah) as king of Judah. Uzziah would later become prideful and attempt to make an offering to the Lord that only the priest could do. IN this incident Uzziah is stricken with leprosy and dies (2 Chron. 26). In verses 8-12 Zechariah becomes the 4th descendant of Jehu to rule, fulfilling the promise to Jehu in 10:30. Zechariah is killed by Shallum who reigns for only one month (v13-16). Menahem kills Shallum and reigns in Israel for 10 years (v17-22). It is during Menahem’s reign that Israel becomes a vassal state coming under the rule of Assyria. Pekahiah his son would begin to reign in his place for two years before he is murdered by Pekah (v23-26). It is under the reign of Pekah that Israel begins to really suffer at the hands of the Assyrians. Pekah is killed by Hoshea who reigns in his place. In verses 32-38 Jotham the son of Uzziah reigns in Judah. 2 Chronicles 27 records that Judah prospered economically under his reign but continued to falter spiritually.
In 2 Kings 11:1-3, after the death of Ahaziah, Athaliah (daughter of Jezebel) his mother reigned over Judah after killing all the heirs (her grandchildren). Jehosheba the wife of the high priest Jehoiada hid Ahaziah’s son Joash so he would not be killed. After six years, Jehoiada makes a plan to anoint Joash king of Judah and to kill Athaliah (v4-12). In verses 13-16 Athaliah is killed by the sword, and Joash is crowned king of Judah. In verses 17-21, Jehoiada led the king and the people to be allegiant to God and to the Davidic line. The temple to Baal was destroyed and the high priest of Baal, Mattan was killed.
2 Kings 12 continues the story of Joash. In verses 1-6 he makes preparations to fund the repairing of the temple. After 23 years the task still had not been completed, so Joash commanded a chest be set aside for the collection of an offering to fund the repairs (v7-16). Soon there was plenty of money and workers began the work to repair the temple. In verses 17-21 Hazael the Syrian king came to make war on Jerusalem. Joash takes the royal treasury and gives it to Hazael as payment and avoids the war. What 2 Kings 12 does not tell is that after the death of Jehoiada the high priest, Joash began to worship other gods (2 Chron.24). This is the reason Hazael and the Syrians came against Israel.
In 2 Kings 13:1-9 Jehoahaz becomes king of Israel. Because he walked in the ways of Jeroboam, God allowed Hazael the king of Syria to trouble him during all of his reign. He did seek the Lord during this conflict and God showed Israel mercy. After his death, his son Jehoash reigns in Israel for 16 years (v10-25). When hearing of Elisha’s coming death Jehoash goes to visit him. Through symbolic actions, Elisha predicts the coming victories over the Syrians. In verses 20-21 a dead man is lowered into Elisha’s grave and when he comes in contact with his bones is restored to life.
2 Kings 14:1-7 records the beginning of the reign of Amaziah as king of Judah as he defeats the Edomites. 2 Chronicles 25 records that while he did win the victory over the Edomites, he also began to worship their gods. After winning this victory Amaziah, in his pride, goes to war with Jehoash king of Israel (v8-22). Amaziah and Judah would be defeated by Jehoash and Israel in this battle as God was showing Amaziah and Judah not to trust in foreign gods. In verses 23-29 Jeroboam II would reign in Israel for 41 years. It is during his reign that God showed them mercy and restored the land back to them that they had lost as predicted by Jonah. This shows that even though people are unfaithful to God, He will never be unfaithful to His word.
2 Kings 15:1-7 records the reign of Uzziah (Azariah) as king of Judah. Uzziah would later become prideful and attempt to make an offering to the Lord that only the priest could do. IN this incident Uzziah is stricken with leprosy and dies (2 Chron. 26). In verses 8-12 Zechariah becomes the 4th descendant of Jehu to rule, fulfilling the promise to Jehu in 10:30. Zechariah is killed by Shallum who reigns for only one month (v13-16). Menahem kills Shallum and reigns in Israel for 10 years (v17-22). It is during Menahem’s reign that Israel becomes a vassal state coming under the rule of Assyria. Pekahiah his son would begin to reign in his place for two years before he is murdered by Pekah (v23-26). It is under the reign of Pekah that Israel begins to really suffer at the hands of the Assyrians. Pekah is killed by Hoshea who reigns in his place. In verses 32-38 Jotham the son of Uzziah reigns in Judah. 2 Chronicles 27 records that Judah prospered economically under his reign but continued to falter spiritually.
Wednesday • Acts 9-10
Acts 9:1-9 records the conversion of Saul (Paul). He also tells more of his testimony in 22:3-16 and 26:4-18, which fulfills Jesus’ words in Acts 9:15-16. Paul was completely opposed to the followers of Jesus and would carry them to prison. There is no doubt from this passage the Lord had been speaking to Paul but he would not listen to the Lord’s call. Ananias is sent to by the Lord to pray for Paul (v10-19). The words in Acts 9:15-16 will be fulfilled throughout his ministry. Paul began to preach about Jesus, and the Jews even began to find a way to kill him (v20-25). In verse 22 the word “confound” means to put together. Paul was able to put together an argument proving that Jesus was their Messiah and Savior. With many afraid of Paul, Barnabas helps Paul when many probably believed he was still plotting against the church (v26-30). Verse 31 is referred to as a “church report” and gives the status of the church. Verses 32-35 record a healing by Peter of a man who was bedridden and paralyzed. Peter also raises Dorcas back to life in verses 36-43. The raising of Dorcas resembles both Luke 5:17-26 and 8:41-56, showing that the Holy Spirit is working through the church and is in continuity with Jesus and His ministry.
Acts 10 records the gospel coming to the Gentiles. In verses 1-8 a man named Cornelius receives a vision from God for him to send for Peter. The description of Cornelius is of one whom they call a God fearer. He had fully accepted Judaism, but had not been circumcised. The next day Peter also receives a vision from the Lord (v9-16). In the vision of the sheet, God is teaching Peter that the Gentiles (all people) are to be viewed as clean. Peter preached the first sermon to the Jews in Acts 2, welcomed the Samaritans in Acts 8, and preaches to the Gentiles here in Acts 10. The band of Cornelius’s men arrives to ask Peter to come to them (v17-23). Notice the role of the Holy Spirit in verse 19. In verses 24-33 Peter and Cornelius both share their stories of how God has spoken to them over the past few days. From God’s own past acts in history, we see that He loves all people and is no respecter of persons. The way God acts here in chapter 10 is consistent with His past acts. The Abrahamic Covenant was to bless all people, Jonah was sent to Gentiles, and Elisha healed Naaman who was also a Gentile. Peter’s message makes it clear to the Gentiles that everyone is a sinner, everyone needs salvation, and everyone needs forgiveness and it all comes through Jesus Christ (v34-48). This message by Peter is also an outline of Mark’s gospel: Mark 1:1-9 (v36-37), Mark 1:9-10:52 (v37-38), Mark 11:1-16:8 (v39-40), Mark 16:9-13 (v41), Mark 16:14-20 (v42).
Acts 9:1-9 records the conversion of Saul (Paul). He also tells more of his testimony in 22:3-16 and 26:4-18, which fulfills Jesus’ words in Acts 9:15-16. Paul was completely opposed to the followers of Jesus and would carry them to prison. There is no doubt from this passage the Lord had been speaking to Paul but he would not listen to the Lord’s call. Ananias is sent to by the Lord to pray for Paul (v10-19). The words in Acts 9:15-16 will be fulfilled throughout his ministry. Paul began to preach about Jesus, and the Jews even began to find a way to kill him (v20-25). In verse 22 the word “confound” means to put together. Paul was able to put together an argument proving that Jesus was their Messiah and Savior. With many afraid of Paul, Barnabas helps Paul when many probably believed he was still plotting against the church (v26-30). Verse 31 is referred to as a “church report” and gives the status of the church. Verses 32-35 record a healing by Peter of a man who was bedridden and paralyzed. Peter also raises Dorcas back to life in verses 36-43. The raising of Dorcas resembles both Luke 5:17-26 and 8:41-56, showing that the Holy Spirit is working through the church and is in continuity with Jesus and His ministry.
Acts 10 records the gospel coming to the Gentiles. In verses 1-8 a man named Cornelius receives a vision from God for him to send for Peter. The description of Cornelius is of one whom they call a God fearer. He had fully accepted Judaism, but had not been circumcised. The next day Peter also receives a vision from the Lord (v9-16). In the vision of the sheet, God is teaching Peter that the Gentiles (all people) are to be viewed as clean. Peter preached the first sermon to the Jews in Acts 2, welcomed the Samaritans in Acts 8, and preaches to the Gentiles here in Acts 10. The band of Cornelius’s men arrives to ask Peter to come to them (v17-23). Notice the role of the Holy Spirit in verse 19. In verses 24-33 Peter and Cornelius both share their stories of how God has spoken to them over the past few days. From God’s own past acts in history, we see that He loves all people and is no respecter of persons. The way God acts here in chapter 10 is consistent with His past acts. The Abrahamic Covenant was to bless all people, Jonah was sent to Gentiles, and Elisha healed Naaman who was also a Gentile. Peter’s message makes it clear to the Gentiles that everyone is a sinner, everyone needs salvation, and everyone needs forgiveness and it all comes through Jesus Christ (v34-48). This message by Peter is also an outline of Mark’s gospel: Mark 1:1-9 (v36-37), Mark 1:9-10:52 (v37-38), Mark 11:1-16:8 (v39-40), Mark 16:9-13 (v41), Mark 16:14-20 (v42).
Thursday • Proverbs 26-27
Proverbs 26 generally covers the four types of people who do not pursue wisdom. Verses 1-12 speak of the fool. The fool in proverbs does not seek wisdom nor will they heed it when it is offered. In verses 1-3 the fool never deserves honor, and when he does something foolish wisdom should be given him in return (v4-5). No one should put confidence in a fool (v6), and in verses 7-9 it is suggested not to even offer them wisdom because they will not listen to it. Verses 10-12 suggest that nothing is to be expected of the fool because they will keep doing the same thing over and over again (v10-11). The only thing worse than being a fool is being a person filled with pride (v12). Verses 13-16 describe the lazy person. The lazy person makes excuses (v13), chooses sleep over work (v14), is too lazy to feed himself (v15), and is prideful (v16). Verses 17-22 describe the madman. This is someone who meddles in others business and stirs up trouble (v17). They also keep their lies hidden by claiming only to be joking (v18-19). They stir up trouble among others by gossiping (v20-21) and love to keep pouring gas on the fire (v22). Verses 23-28 describe the hypocrite. These verses would also fit the Pharisees of the New Testament whom Jesus described as hypocrites. They speak words that seem good, but behind them is wickedness (v23). With words they try to hide the true motive of their hearts (v24-25). They will lie but be exposed for what they really are in front of all (v26).
Proverbs 27 speaks about right and wrong attitudes. Being prideful of what you will do in the future or being prideful in yourself is dangerous (v1-2). Being resentful (v3) and being envious (v4) are also warned about. Verses 5-6 are an encouragement to have friends who are willing to tell you the truth. Verses 7-8 describe the attitude one’s words can be taken with depending on their situation. Verses 9-10 describe the joy over having friends who give wise counsel. In verse 11 Solomon is encouraging his son to be obedient to his words. Those who are wise avoid trouble (v12), avoid being taking advantage of (v13), and say the right thing at the right time (v14). The wise son will also avoid marrying a rebellious wife (v15-16). Verse 17 shows the advantages of having godly parents, friendships, and mentors in one’s life. Verse 18 is an encouragement to be faithful to your master. Someone’s outward behavior is a good indicator of their heart (v19). Ecclesiastes teaches verse 20. If a man could have the whole world in his heart he still would not be satisfied. Only a relationship with God brings satisfaction. Verse 21 is teaching that how a person responds to praise reveals his character. Verse 22 says that once a person commits themselves to being a fool it is nearly impossible to remove the foolishness from them. Verses 23-28 teach that we are to be diligent in caring for the resources God has given us by being good stewards of it.
Proverbs 26 generally covers the four types of people who do not pursue wisdom. Verses 1-12 speak of the fool. The fool in proverbs does not seek wisdom nor will they heed it when it is offered. In verses 1-3 the fool never deserves honor, and when he does something foolish wisdom should be given him in return (v4-5). No one should put confidence in a fool (v6), and in verses 7-9 it is suggested not to even offer them wisdom because they will not listen to it. Verses 10-12 suggest that nothing is to be expected of the fool because they will keep doing the same thing over and over again (v10-11). The only thing worse than being a fool is being a person filled with pride (v12). Verses 13-16 describe the lazy person. The lazy person makes excuses (v13), chooses sleep over work (v14), is too lazy to feed himself (v15), and is prideful (v16). Verses 17-22 describe the madman. This is someone who meddles in others business and stirs up trouble (v17). They also keep their lies hidden by claiming only to be joking (v18-19). They stir up trouble among others by gossiping (v20-21) and love to keep pouring gas on the fire (v22). Verses 23-28 describe the hypocrite. These verses would also fit the Pharisees of the New Testament whom Jesus described as hypocrites. They speak words that seem good, but behind them is wickedness (v23). With words they try to hide the true motive of their hearts (v24-25). They will lie but be exposed for what they really are in front of all (v26).
Proverbs 27 speaks about right and wrong attitudes. Being prideful of what you will do in the future or being prideful in yourself is dangerous (v1-2). Being resentful (v3) and being envious (v4) are also warned about. Verses 5-6 are an encouragement to have friends who are willing to tell you the truth. Verses 7-8 describe the attitude one’s words can be taken with depending on their situation. Verses 9-10 describe the joy over having friends who give wise counsel. In verse 11 Solomon is encouraging his son to be obedient to his words. Those who are wise avoid trouble (v12), avoid being taking advantage of (v13), and say the right thing at the right time (v14). The wise son will also avoid marrying a rebellious wife (v15-16). Verse 17 shows the advantages of having godly parents, friendships, and mentors in one’s life. Verse 18 is an encouragement to be faithful to your master. Someone’s outward behavior is a good indicator of their heart (v19). Ecclesiastes teaches verse 20. If a man could have the whole world in his heart he still would not be satisfied. Only a relationship with God brings satisfaction. Verse 21 is teaching that how a person responds to praise reveals his character. Verse 22 says that once a person commits themselves to being a fool it is nearly impossible to remove the foolishness from them. Verses 23-28 teach that we are to be diligent in caring for the resources God has given us by being good stewards of it.
Friday • Lamentations
Lamentations was written shortly after the fall of Judah. Jerusalem has been destroyed and the people have been taken away captive by the Babylonians. The author of Lamentations is writing as he sees all of this unfold. God is punishing His people for their unfaithfulness and now they are experiencing great suffering. Lamentations means “loud cries” and is associated with funeral songs. But, even in the midst of the suffering and sorrow, there is hope in God.
In Lamentations 1:1-7 the author describes the many losses they have suffered from their enemies. The author does acknowledge that all of it has happened because of their sin (v5). In verses 8-11 he describes the feelings of those who were in Jerusalem. They feel shame and defilement over their sin that has caused this to happen (v8-9). God’s punishment of their sin has a purpose (v12-17). It was so they would turn back to Him. In verses 18-22 the people know that they have sinned against God, and they do cry out to God for mercy (v18-22).
Lamentations 2:1-10 describes God’s anger over the sins of Judah. God is personally mentioned in these verses 40 times, showing that He was the one bringing judgment on the people. In verses 11-13 the author is mourning over the state of Judah and the people. It is so devastating that he has no words to offer. The destruction of Judah also shows that the false prophets’ prophecies were false (v14-17). In verses 18-22 the people are told to mourn over what is taking place because of their sin. After Jerusalem was destroyed women ate their children, priests were killed in the temple, and people were lying dead in the street.
Lamentations 3:1-18 paints a picture of utter hopelessness for Jerusalem and the people. It is in the middle of all the suffering and mourning that God’s mercy, compassion, faithfulness shines through (v19-30). In verses 31-39 there is also a reminder that God is in control during times of sorrow and affliction. The punishment on Judah however did produce repentance as they ask for God’s forgiveness (v40-66). Even though they are still suffering (v43-49) they are assured God will soon bring them relief (v48-51). Verses 52-63 seem to supply proof that Jeremiah is the author of Lamentations (Jer. 38:6-13). Just as God rescued him from this situation God will also rescue the people (v64-66).
In Lamentations 4 the author paints a before/after picture of Jerusalem. The people who were once cherished as gold had become like pottery (v1-2). Jerusalem is even said to be worse off than Sodom (v6). People of royalty who once had it all were covered in filth and roaming the streets (v3-5, 7-8). The cause of their punishment came from false religious and political leaders who did not know God or trust in Him (v13-20). Even in this there is a glimmer of hope. The Edomites who rejoiced over Jerusalem’s downfall would be punished (v21) and the punishment of Judah would end (v22).
The book of Lamentations closes with a prayer for God to be merciful to His people. In verses 1-10 the author describes the conditions during the time of his prayer. They have lost their inheritance, been exiled, and are starving. The six groups of people in verses 11-13 show that the judgment of God affected everyone. There is no longer any joy among the people (v14-18). Who can help them heal? God is the only One who can help them (v19-22). The author prays that God will restore them and turn their hearts back to Him.
Lamentations was written shortly after the fall of Judah. Jerusalem has been destroyed and the people have been taken away captive by the Babylonians. The author of Lamentations is writing as he sees all of this unfold. God is punishing His people for their unfaithfulness and now they are experiencing great suffering. Lamentations means “loud cries” and is associated with funeral songs. But, even in the midst of the suffering and sorrow, there is hope in God.
In Lamentations 1:1-7 the author describes the many losses they have suffered from their enemies. The author does acknowledge that all of it has happened because of their sin (v5). In verses 8-11 he describes the feelings of those who were in Jerusalem. They feel shame and defilement over their sin that has caused this to happen (v8-9). God’s punishment of their sin has a purpose (v12-17). It was so they would turn back to Him. In verses 18-22 the people know that they have sinned against God, and they do cry out to God for mercy (v18-22).
Lamentations 2:1-10 describes God’s anger over the sins of Judah. God is personally mentioned in these verses 40 times, showing that He was the one bringing judgment on the people. In verses 11-13 the author is mourning over the state of Judah and the people. It is so devastating that he has no words to offer. The destruction of Judah also shows that the false prophets’ prophecies were false (v14-17). In verses 18-22 the people are told to mourn over what is taking place because of their sin. After Jerusalem was destroyed women ate their children, priests were killed in the temple, and people were lying dead in the street.
Lamentations 3:1-18 paints a picture of utter hopelessness for Jerusalem and the people. It is in the middle of all the suffering and mourning that God’s mercy, compassion, faithfulness shines through (v19-30). In verses 31-39 there is also a reminder that God is in control during times of sorrow and affliction. The punishment on Judah however did produce repentance as they ask for God’s forgiveness (v40-66). Even though they are still suffering (v43-49) they are assured God will soon bring them relief (v48-51). Verses 52-63 seem to supply proof that Jeremiah is the author of Lamentations (Jer. 38:6-13). Just as God rescued him from this situation God will also rescue the people (v64-66).
In Lamentations 4 the author paints a before/after picture of Jerusalem. The people who were once cherished as gold had become like pottery (v1-2). Jerusalem is even said to be worse off than Sodom (v6). People of royalty who once had it all were covered in filth and roaming the streets (v3-5, 7-8). The cause of their punishment came from false religious and political leaders who did not know God or trust in Him (v13-20). Even in this there is a glimmer of hope. The Edomites who rejoiced over Jerusalem’s downfall would be punished (v21) and the punishment of Judah would end (v22).
The book of Lamentations closes with a prayer for God to be merciful to His people. In verses 1-10 the author describes the conditions during the time of his prayer. They have lost their inheritance, been exiled, and are starving. The six groups of people in verses 11-13 show that the judgment of God affected everyone. There is no longer any joy among the people (v14-18). Who can help them heal? God is the only One who can help them (v19-22). The author prays that God will restore them and turn their hearts back to Him.
Saturday • 2 Peter
2 Peter was written to encourage the people to grow in their understanding of the Christian life and to practice it (2 Peter 3:18). Peter also writes to warn them of false teachers who have risen up since he last wrote to them (2 Peter 2:1-3). In 2 Peter 1:2-11, Peter asks them to keep growing and maturing in the Christian life so they will bear fruit. In verses 12-15 it seems Peter is writing with a sense of urgency knowing his death is quickly approaching. In verses 16-21 Peter also urges them to follow God’s word because it was spoken to them by the Holy Spirit. Peter knows they must keep maturing and heeding God’s word to combat the false teachers which is the subject of chapter 2.
2 Peter 2 is a warning against false teachers. In these verses he describes the false teachers as-doing anything for money (v3), blaspheming the ways of God (v2,10-11), promoting and indulging in sin (v12-17), being proud and boasting (v18-19), and they will be judged by God (v3-10, 20-22). Peter presents their actions and their judgment with examples from the Old Testament (v4,5,6,7,9).
In 2 Peter 3:1-13 Peter reminds them to remember the words of the Lord and of His prophets warning them of the coming of false teachers, the coming of the Lord, and the coming judgment. Peter cites the reason for the delay in the Lord’s coming as the salvation of people. In verses 14-18 Peter encourages them to be on alert for false teachers who teach false doctrines and to continue to grow in their faith (v14-18).
2 Peter was written to encourage the people to grow in their understanding of the Christian life and to practice it (2 Peter 3:18). Peter also writes to warn them of false teachers who have risen up since he last wrote to them (2 Peter 2:1-3). In 2 Peter 1:2-11, Peter asks them to keep growing and maturing in the Christian life so they will bear fruit. In verses 12-15 it seems Peter is writing with a sense of urgency knowing his death is quickly approaching. In verses 16-21 Peter also urges them to follow God’s word because it was spoken to them by the Holy Spirit. Peter knows they must keep maturing and heeding God’s word to combat the false teachers which is the subject of chapter 2.
2 Peter 2 is a warning against false teachers. In these verses he describes the false teachers as-doing anything for money (v3), blaspheming the ways of God (v2,10-11), promoting and indulging in sin (v12-17), being proud and boasting (v18-19), and they will be judged by God (v3-10, 20-22). Peter presents their actions and their judgment with examples from the Old Testament (v4,5,6,7,9).
In 2 Peter 3:1-13 Peter reminds them to remember the words of the Lord and of His prophets warning them of the coming of false teachers, the coming of the Lord, and the coming judgment. Peter cites the reason for the delay in the Lord’s coming as the salvation of people. In verses 14-18 Peter encourages them to be on alert for false teachers who teach false doctrines and to continue to grow in their faith (v14-18).
Bibliography
Barker, Kenneth L. Expositor’s Bible Commentary OT/NT. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994.
Bible Study Press. The NET Bible First Edition Notes. Biblical Studies Press, 2006.
Carson, D.A. & Douglas Moo. An Introduction to the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.
Harrison, R.K. TOTC: Jeremiah and Lamentations. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1973.
Longman, Tremper. Layman’s Old Testament Bible Commentary. Uhrichsville: Barbour Publishing, 2010.
Mare, W. Harold. NT Background Commentary: Words, Phrases, and Situations. Rosshire: Mentor, 2004.
Polhill, John B. NAC:Acts. Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1992.
Willmington, H.L. The Outline Bible. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1999.
Wiseman, Donald J. TOTC: 1 & 2 Kings. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1993.
Cover to Cover Challenge logo and printed materials are property of Nazareth Baptist Church and Pastor Jason Bell. Please do not copy without written permission.
Bible Study Press. The NET Bible First Edition Notes. Biblical Studies Press, 2006.
Carson, D.A. & Douglas Moo. An Introduction to the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.
Harrison, R.K. TOTC: Jeremiah and Lamentations. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1973.
Longman, Tremper. Layman’s Old Testament Bible Commentary. Uhrichsville: Barbour Publishing, 2010.
Mare, W. Harold. NT Background Commentary: Words, Phrases, and Situations. Rosshire: Mentor, 2004.
Polhill, John B. NAC:Acts. Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1992.
Willmington, H.L. The Outline Bible. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1999.
Wiseman, Donald J. TOTC: 1 & 2 Kings. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1993.
Cover to Cover Challenge logo and printed materials are property of Nazareth Baptist Church and Pastor Jason Bell. Please do not copy without written permission.