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Lesson 7 and 8 Notes Download

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Psalm 51:5

Romans 4:1-9 Another reason this incident was written is so that we know “all men” means “all”, including the great men Abraham and David. Our understanding of grace, mercy, and forgiveness is greatly enhanced with this record about David.

Psalm 51:6-12 Did God answer David’s prayer?

Acts 13:21-23

7 Hyssop is a wild shrub the twigs of which were used for sprinkling in purification rites. Numbers 19:16-19 Apparently, hyssop had natural purification properties.

10 The reason acceptance of forgiveness is often difficult is we keep doing the same thing over and over. God must change our hearts and guide our steps, and we must fight to accept His workings. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. David is not only asking forgiveness and a clean heart, but additionally a STEADFAST state of mind in which he would be willing and ready to obey the commands of God and to serve Him faithfully.

Psalm 119:9-12 How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. With all my heart I have sought You; do not let me wander from Your commandments. Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You. Blessed are You, O Yahweh; teach me Your statutes.

16-17 Sacrifices, Hebrews 13:14-15

4:5 Sacrifice of righteousness

50:14 and 23; 54:6; 107:22; 116:17 Sacrifice of thanksgiving

I06:28, 37, and 38 Sacrifice cost them a lot. How about us?

Psalm 32:1 This psalm is believed to be written after the situation with Uriah in keeping with David’s promise in Psalm 51:12-15.

How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered! How blessed is the man to whom Yahweh does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit!

“Transgression”, “sin”, and “iniquity” are used to convey the same idea. They highlight the act of straying from the path of righteousness by disobeying God’s will and thereby breaking fellowship with Him.

“Forgiven”, “covered”, and “impute” basically communicate the same thing. God’s forgiveness is a blessing.

Sin is the general act of missing the mark and falling short of God’s standard. This is the opposite of what is right. Genesis 4:7 – Cain, sin is crouching at….

Transgression is the willful act of crossing boundaries and violating God’s law, whether with or without evil intent. Genesis 50:17 – Joseph and his brothers

Iniquity carries a deeper meaning, in that it is a premeditated choice in sin without repentance, with evil intent. It can also imply continuous commitment to sin.

While these terms have distinct meanings, it’s important to note that they are often used interchangeably and can overlap in certain contexts. They convey the idea of wrongdoing, rebellion against God, and need for repentance and forgiveness.

2 “in whose spirit there is not deceit” – a person who is sincere, honest, and transparent in his/her relationship with God. This person has a pure heart, no hidden motives or deception.

4 David metaphorically expresses the burden of unconfessed sin as a heavy weight and a drain on his strength, like the oppressive heat of summer. The depiction emphasizes the distress and discomfort experienced while trying to hide the sin.

Psalm 38:4-10, 17-22

7 Now is the time to repent; do not wait; time may run out on your life or the day of God’s judgment. It implies a sense of urgency and the recognition that there is a window of opportunity to seek God’s forgiveness and mercy.

“You are my hiding place.” David relished fellowship with God. He used these concepts in his writings – stronghold 14 times, refuge 41 times; shelter 4 times; shadow of the Almighty, shadow of your wings, my fortress, the secret place of Your tent, and the secret place of Your presence.

8 These verses seem to switch from David speaking to God, to God speaking to him.

9 This is caution against stubbornness and resistance to God’s leading. These animals require external control mechanisms like bits and bridles.

11 Be glad in Yahweh and rejoice, you righteous ones; and shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.

Psalm 6:1-10 David, suffering physically, near death, at wits end, turns to Yahweh and cries out for help. Asking God to return implies a sense of distance from Him, so he prays, “Yahweh, rescue my soul; save me”. Spiritually minded people understand God’s intervention is not because it is earned or deserved; rather, it is because of His lovingkindness, His steadfast, unchanging love.

All of us experience times of suffering and have feelings of separation from God. David did what we should do – pray and focus on God’s lovingkindness and not our problem or feelings. David ends the psalm confident God heard his prayer. Verse 9 states: Yahweh has heard my supplication, Yahweh receives my prayer.

Psalm 19:11 In view of the preceding verses in this Psalm that magnify the significance of God’s word, David acknowledges the Scriptures will help him by warning him to avoid sins.

12 We can be deceived and not acknowledge our own errors, so we pray and ask for help and forgiveness, similar to the Lord’s prayer.

13 “Presumptuous” is failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate, to be arrogant, audacious. We need God’s help to avoid deliberate or willful sins and hidden sins we are unaware of.

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Yahweh, my rock and my Redeemer.

Psalm 25:5-8 The prayer is uttered by a humble, fragile, contrite believer to his compassionate, loving, and kind God. The information recorded in

Psalm 25 is needful to all those who want to walk in a loving relationship with Yahweh. Asking God to remember His own virtues (compassion and lovingkindnesses) and not remember our sins and transgressions is indeed unusual, but very necessary.

1 John 1:8-10 Our faith for forgiveness has much more substance since we live after Jesus’ death and resurrection. God’s plan of redemption and salvation are now complete in Christ. When we read the following, we should have the same (nay, more) faith to accept forgiveness – 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Psalm 25:9-11 “For Your name’s sake, O Yahweh”, not for my sake or my merits’ sake, but to glorify Your mercy and to show forth the glory of Your divine attributes. To pardon a great sinner will bring You great glory; therefore, for Your name’s sake pardon me.

This verse illustrates the logic of faith; it looks not for merit in oneself but to the goodness and mercy of God. Instead of being flabbergasted by the demerits of sin, it looks to the steadfast love of our merciful God and Father. “Yahweh’s loving kindnesses never cease; they are new every morning.”

Psalm 40:11-13 David’s confidence in Yahweh, even when his iniquities overtake him, is a great example of taking God at His word. Yahweh declared that He is compassionate, gracious, and forgiving. David believed Yahweh would forgive him because He said so.

Psalm 103:1-22 He pardons all your iniquities….

Psalm 130:1-7 In the ancient world, walls surrounding the cities provided protection from those who would be enemies. Every night, citizens took turns as watchmen to oversee the city. Late into the night, staying alert became more and more difficult. The watchmen longed for the morning when they would be relieved from their duty. This is a brilliant comparison for our anticipation of Christ’s return. We long for that glorious day! Until dawn breaks, we are on watch for the approaching of our spiritual adversary, the devil. 1 Peter 5:8 states, “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

1. David’s sin is recorded, so can remain vigilant, understand God’s forgiveness, and appreciate salvation by ________________.

a) merit, b) love, c) grace, d) works

2. Psalm 32:1 How blessed is he whose transgression is _________, whose sin is covered! How blessed is the man to whom Yahweh does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit!

a) Remember, b) forgotten, c) counted, d) forgiven

3. Psalm 103 states that our transgressions are removed from us using what comparison?

a) As high as the heavens are above the earth, b) as deep as the ocean, c) as far as the east is from the west, d) as high as the highest mountain

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Lesson 7 and 8 Notes Download

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We have seen in previous sessions how extraordinary David was as a man after God’s own heart. His love and devotion to Yahweh were beyond compare.

2 Samuel 23:14-17 David was in the battlefield with his men for years. The significance of David’s refusal to drink the water is an example of David’s leadership and the deep bonds he shared with his warriors. It highlights themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and honor that committed and seasoned soldiers share.

2 Samuel 23:18 Joab is the son of Zeruiah, David’s sister; this was his nephew. Abishai was Joab’s brother and another nephew; 24 Asahel was another brother to Joab and another nephew to David; 34 Eliam the son of Ahithophel; 39 Uriah the Hittite.

Bathsheba was the wife of Uriah the Hittite. The Hittites were a neighboring nation known for their fierce warriors. Uriah was one of David’s 30 elite warriors.

Bathsheba’s father was Eliam (2 Samuel 11:3; 1 Chronicles 3: 5) who was also among the elite. Eliam was the son of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 23:34). Ahithophel was the grandfather of Bathsheba. He was one of David’s counselors who sided with Absalom. (See 1 Chronicles 27:33; 2 Samuel 15:31.)

2 Samuel 11:14-27 David took advantage of the no questions asked loyalty of Joab and involved him in the murder of this noble man. Later, Joab would kill David’s son, Absalom.

2 Samuel 12:1-9

Exodus 20:17 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife or his male servant or his female servant or his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:6; 1 Peter 5:8-9

Psalm 51:1 Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

David is again leaning on his understanding of Exodus 34. He had no grounds to ask forgiveness other than the words of Yahweh he knew from the Torah. He asked forgiveness knowing he deserved death. Yahweh’s grace, compassion, and lovingkindness were why David received forgiveness and not because of his good works. We are blessed to live after Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins. If we have a penitent heart like David, we too can receive forgiveness and cleansing. If God forgave David, He can forgive you too!

2-4 His contriteness is evident as he is accepting full responsibility for his sin without blaming anyone else or God.

Romans 3:1-25

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Psalm 5:6-8 David often writes about the many foes that he faced as is the case with this psalm. Yet, he knew no matter the immensity of his adversaries, he could find safety and solace in God’s presence. He also understood that entrance therein was available only because of God’s abundant lovingkindness. To bow down in reverence signifies an attitude of humility and awe before the Almighty. By asking Yahweh to make His way straight, David is seeking a clear and direct path so he can follow God’s will and stay on the right path even in the face of opposition. This is a great example to follow!

Psalm 17: 7-9 As our eyes are guarded by the autonomic reflexes and as the mother bird protects her chicks under her wing, God watches over and protects His people. David’s faith and assurance in His God were strong because he was living the right way. He did not doubt God’s steadfast love and concern for him. The way he spoke to God is inspirational and a good example of how to pray.

With the many godly inspired psalms that David wrote, we see a man with a wide range of thoughts, feelings, faith, and doubts. He had a life full of many diverse experiences at different stages in life that cultivated a variety of responses. His ability to honestly articulate his thoughts to God is masterfully communicated in his many psalms. Through it all, he always ends up worshipping the God he loves, even if he is sick, depressed, lost, or overwhelmed. In David, we have a great example to follow as we go through life’s battles.

Psalm 25:14; 27:4-5; 31:19-21

Psalm 6:4 David, suffering physically, near death, at wits end, turns to Yahweh and cries out for help. Asking God to return implies a sense of distance from Him, so he prays “Yahweh rescue my soul; save me”. David believed God would help because of His steadfast love. Spiritually minded people understand God’s intervention is not because it is earned or deserved; rather, it is because of His lovingkindness, His steadfast, unchanging love.

All of us experience times of suffering and have feelings of separation from God. David did what we should do – pray and focus on God’s lovingkindness and not our problem or feelings. David ends the psalm confident that God heard his prayer: verse 9 states, Yahweh has heard my supplication, Yahweh receives my prayer.

Psalm 26:1-3 The human history revealed in the Bible and the many warnings to be aware of deception provide ample reason for us to follow David’s lead to invite Yahweh to examine, try, and test the mind and heart. We certainly need His and our Lord Jesus’ help to see things that may be hidden to us. At the time of David’s request, he was in pretty good standing with God and confident that he was walking the walk. Other psalms indicate that he also prayed this way when things were not so good, and he doubted his relationship with God. Good or bad, every day we can benefit from such a request. God does not forcefully intervene into our lives violating our free will. We are responsible to ask for help with faith.

Psalm 31:7-10 In the midst of grave turmoil, David determined to rejoice and be glad in Yahweh’s lovingkindness. He did not stick his head in the sand and act like there were no problems; rather, he expressed his plight and feelings seeking for God’s help. This is a great psalm to focus on when we are suffering.

Psalm 33:4-5 If our eyes are open and seeking, we can see that the earth is full of His lovingkindness. If our eyes are focused on the evil that is in the world, we will be filled with darkness that simulates unhealthy emotions and a distressful life.

Psalm 36:5-10 David’s inspired picturesque words give us some appreciation of Yahweh’s vast and distinctive holy qualities. With His limitless lovingkindness, faithfulness, righteousness, and judgments, He preserves man and beast. How blessed are God’s children for we get to drink from the river of His delights and His fountain of life. In Yahweh’s light, we see light.

1) The psalmists’ understanding about Yahweh’s lovingkindness was based upon____________________

2) What inspires God’s lovingkindness __________________

3) If our eyes are open and seeking, we can see that the _______________ is full of His lovingkindness. (a. heaven, b. church, c. earth, d. Torah)

Lesson 5 and 6 Download

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Many psalms speak of God’s lovingkindness based upon the psalmists’ understanding of the Torah, just like Jesus and the New Testament writers referenced the Old Testament. For David, the foundational verses most frequently used are the description Yahweh gave Moses about Himself.

Exodus 34:6-7 Then Yahweh passed by in front of him and proclaimed, “Yahweh, Yahweh God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations.”

Numbers 14:17-20 God led Israel to the Promised Land, but they refused to enter based upon the evil report of the ten elders. They wanted to kill Moses and Aaron, appoint a new leader, and march back to Egypt. God told Moses He was going to wipe them out and start over with Moses. Moses fought for them and held God to His own words recorded in Exodus 34:6-7

Psalm 40:5-17 In the context of this psalm, David acknowledges his iniquities, and he is still convinced that Yahweh will have compassion and lovingkindness.

Psalm 51:1-2 Other psalms elaborate on his contriteness, and here we see pure faith in his God based upon his understanding of the Scriptures and God’s past dealings with him.

Psalm 69:13-18 As the king, according to Deuteronomy 17:18-19, he was required to write for himself a Torah scroll (first five books of the Bible) and use it as his guide for life and reigning as king. From Torah, he understood that Yahweh was loving and compassionate. He really believed in the depth of his heart that God’s steadfast love and compassion would motivate Him to help David no matter the circumstances. Likewise, we too should have undaunted faith when seeking God’s help because of His unchanging love and not because of our own merit or deservedness. Psalm 13:5; 52:8

The importance of understanding God’s steadfast love cannot be overstated. We are commanded to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” In this context, we are told to be “perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” We are to love like Him, so understanding His loving ways is essential. God’s lovingkindness is not motivated or determined in any way by what people do or do not do. He does not love us because we deserve to be loved; quite contrary, we do not deserve or earn His love. He loves humanity because He is love. John 3:16 reveals the inclusiveness of His love and the extent of it. God’s love is self-motivated and self-directed. (Romans 5:5-10). We should not confuse His love with His righteous and just judgments, nor should we mix it up with His discipline or punishments.

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Deuteronomy 6:3-5 “Hear, O Israel! The LORD [Yahweh] is our God

Deuteronomy 32:39 See now that I, I am He, and there is no god besides Me;

Deuteronomy 4:35 and 39 There is no other.

Deuteronomy 10:17 God of gods, Lord of lords

Exodus 20:1-3

The word “elohim” occurs 2,606 times, most often (but not exclusively) referring to Yahweh. Judges, Moses, Samuel, David, angels, unholy gods, and demons also are called elohim.

When referring to Yahweh, elohim means the sovereign almighty God overall. When used regarding human judges and spirit beings, it also refers to a sovereignty of a lesser degree, one who manages the affairs of others. Yahweh is an elohim, but no other elohim is Yahweh.

1 Corinthians 8:4-6; 10:19-22

2 Corinthians 4:4 Satan is the god of this age.

Hebrews 2:5-8 Angels are also called elohim.

Hebrews 1:5; 5:5; Acts 13:33; and Psalm 2:7

Hebrews 1:5-9; Psalm 45:6-7 Jesus will be the god of the new age.

Exodus 18:11 Now I know that the LORD is greater than all the gods.

Genesis 1:1; Revelation 4:11 Yahweh is the Creator.

Revelation 1:8; 4:8 Yahweh is Almighty God

Psalm 97:9 Yahweh Most High

Psalm 24: 8-10 Yahweh King of Glory

Psalm 2:11-12 Worship Yahweh; give homage to the Son.

Psalms 29:1-2; 95:6-7; 99:5 and 9; 22:27; 66:4 Worship Yahweh.

Deuteronomy 6:3-5

Lesson 3 and 4 Notes Download

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Psalm 47

I will give thanks to Yahweh according to His righteousness and will sing praise to the name of Yahweh Most High. (7:17)

I will give thanks to Yahweh with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonders.

“Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving and pay your vows to the Most High; (50:14)

“Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Yahweh of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah. (46:10)

Psalm 18:1-31; 29:1-11; 95:1-7; 96:1-13; 97:1-12

To worship in holy array or attire suggests that worship should be done in a manner that is holy and reverent. This implies approaching God with respect and sincerity, acknowledging His holiness and righteousness. “Holy array” can be understood as a state of being, set apart and consecrated for worship.

Psalm 89:11-12; Psalm 104:24-30

Psalm 8:1-9; 19:1-6; Psalm 104:1-35; Psalm 148:1-14

The spiritual beings praise Him. Revelation 4:8-11; 5:11-14; 7:9-12; 11:16, 17;19:4-7

Psalm 136:1-9 For His creation

Psalm 136:10-16; 135:1-14; 105; 106

Davidic – Psalm 89:3-4, 20-37

Daily make time to write thanks to Yahweh. Suggestions: His creation, character traits, His wonders, His blessings in your life, His promises, Christ’s accomplishments, what He has blessed you with…

Psalm 100:4-5 Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. For Yahweh is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 50:14, 23 “Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving and pay your vows to the Most High; “He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; and to him who orders his way aright I shall show the salvation of God.”

Speaking in tongues was not available when the Psalms were written but is readily available right now.

• Review the notes, and read the Scriptures not covered in the teaching.

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Lesson 3 and 4 Notes Download

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Isaiah 61:1-3 (KJV) The Spirit of the Lord Yahweh is upon me; because Yahweh hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of Yahweh, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness….

Isaiah 61:3 (ESV) …the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit….

The Hebrew word translated “heaviness” and “faint” is Keheh meaning dim, dull, faint, or fade. The garment of praise is not just to cover over the heaviness, rather to replace the heaviness and faint spirit. This garment is not to cover the outer body, but the inner heart. Praise can revitalize the soul so that we do not faint.

Oaks of righteousness – that Yahweh may be glorified. Jesus came that we may receive all we have plus the coming Kingdom AND that Yahweh maybe glorified.

Hebrew 13:14-15 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

No longer do God’s people offer dead animal sacrifices. We offer the sacrifice of praise and thanks. The old covenant sacrifices took thought, time, energy, and expense. Our sacrifice living post Jesus should not be less vigorous. Learning how to praise God and investing the time every day to offer the sacrifice of praise to Him is definitely appropriate.

I will sing to Yahweh as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. (104:33) Ephesians and Colossians

Let sinners be consumed from the earth and let the wicked be no more. Bless Yahweh, O my soul. Praise Yahweh! (104:35)

Blessed be Yahweh, the God of Israel, from everlasting even to everlasting. And let all the people say, “Amen.” Praise Yahweh! (106:48)

With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to Yahweh; and in the midst of many I will praise Him. (109:30)

Praise Yahweh! I will give thanks to Yahweh with all my heart, in the company of the upright and in the assembly. (111:1)

The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever. (111:10)

The dead do not praise Yahweh, nor do any who go down into silence;

Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous ordinances. (119:164)

Praise Yahweh! Praise the name of Yahweh; Praise Him, O servants of Yahweh

I will extol You, my God, O King, and I will bless Your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever. Great is Yahweh, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Your works to another and shall declare Your mighty acts. (145:1-4)

Praise Yahweh! Praise Yahweh, O my soul! I will praise Yahweh while I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. (146:1-2)

Where does praise for Yahweh fit into our day? Set an alarm. Muslims are supposed to pray 5 times a day – at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and evening.

According to the dictionary, praise is the expression of approval or admiration for someone. Praise is usually earned by achievement or accomplishment and is often contrasted with criticism. It is impossible to overstate how deserving Yahweh is of praise. Synonyms are “extol”, “magnify”, “glorify”, “bless”, “celebrate”, “exalt”, “laud”, and “esteem”.

From the beginning, recorded in Gensis 3, Satan has slandered Yahweh and inspires many to criticize Him. Many people blame God for the evil that the devil instigates. We want to give Yahweh what is due Him, praise and thanks.

Psalm 145:1-3 “Extol”, “bless”, and “praise” are synonyms.

4 We praise Him for His works and His mighty acts. Each generation has the responsibility to teach the next how to praise God.

5 In order to praise God, we must meditate on His glorious splendor (His attributes). Also, consider His majesty (his sovereignty and power) and His wonderful works. These things are found in the Scriptures. The Bible provides an abundance of material to use in our praise.

6-7 His power, acts, greatness, goodness, and righteousness are all praiseworthy.

8-21 Speak of his attributes, life, grace, mercy, goodness, and the coming Kingdom. The provision for the existence of all living things is also praiseworthy.

Praise Yahweh for His:

Psalm 103:1-22 He pardons our iniquities, heals all our diseases, redeems us, lovingkindness, compassion, satisfies with good things, righteousness, judgment, gracious, slow to anger, removes our transgressions.

145:1-21

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Forge is a free online study resource that takes about an hour and is designed to empower you to lead a small group. Forge studies avoid technical jargon and insider Christian language in an effort to focus your time on the Scriptures. Forge equips you to get into the biblical text and ask relevant questions in a way that is engaging and interesting from the start.

The goal of Forge is to equip you to invite your neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family members to learn about the Bible. They require no preparation and are highly interactive. These are ideal for small groups of 3 or 4 people.

On our website, lhim.org, we are developing Forge studies on books of the Bible, doctrines, and Christian living. So far, we have studies on James, Colossians, Obadiah, as well as a handful on doctrinal topics like resurrection. We are continuing to make more, but we have enough to get you started.

Today, we are going to have a live demonstration of a Forge study. We will work through James chapter 1, so that you can see how easy these are to lead.

Prayer: With expectant hearts and minds, we seek your truth, O God. In this study, help us to be attentive as we listen, careful as we speak, and awake to your wisdom. Open our hearts to your Scripture and give us the courage to change in light of what we read. We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Have you ever been a refugee?

The Christian church started as a large group of Jews in Jerusalem. Life in the ancient world was tough: early on, opponents of Christianity persecuted the church, causing many to flee from the city. Tragically, violence like this was not uncommon in the ancient world. The new Christians in this situation were forced to relocate, living in new cities as transplants. Wherever they went, they were strangers, followers of a new, unpopular religion, and they probably faced all the troubles typical of refugee status. Many of them were poor, disadvantaged, and lacked the social connections needed to get ahead in their new communities.

James1 is an epistle (letter) probably written by Jesus’ brother James to new Christians who had been driven from their homes.

The epistle draws on the Old Testament Scriptures more than any other New Testament book. Unlike many of the other New Testament epistles, it’s not a message from someone to a single group, but to individuals spread abroad. It evokes both the impersonal style and the content of Jewish Wisdom Literature (like the book of Proverbs). But despite its Jewish style, James is intensely focused on what it means to follow Jesus.

In this study, we will go through chapter 1 of the book of James.

James 1:1–82

1:2 My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, 1:3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 1:4 And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you will be perfect and complete, not deficient in anything. 1:5 But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him. 1:6 But he must ask in faith without doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed around by the wind. 1:7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord, 1:8 since he is a double-minded individual, unstable in all his ways.

Question: What is the posture James says God has when he gives wisdom? Explain.

James 1:9–11

Question: Compared to the secular world, which part of James’ words to the rich is a reality check?

James 1:12–18

Question: The passage describes a process that begins with temptation and ends in death. What are the steps between?

James 1:19–27

1:25 But the one who peers into the perfect law of liberty and fixes his attention there, and does not become a forgetful listener but one who lives it out—he will be blessed in what he does. 1:26 If someone thinks he is religious yet does not bridle his tongue, and so deceives his heart, his religion is futile. 1:27Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their adversity and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

Question: What does James say results from a person fixing their attention in God’s “perfect law of liberty” and then living it out?

James 1:1–8

1:2 My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, 1:3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 1:4 And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you will be perfect and complete, not deficient in anything. 1:5 But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him. 1:6 But he must ask in faith without doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed around by the wind. 1:7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord, 1:8 since he is a double-minded individual, unstable in all his ways.

James 1:9–11

James 1:12–18

James 1:19–27

1:25 But the one who peers into the perfect law of liberty and fixes his attention there, and does not become a forgetful listener but one who lives it out—he will be blessed in what he does. 1:26 If someone thinks he is religious yet does not bridle his tongue, and so deceives his heart, his religion is futile. 1:27Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their adversity and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

Challenge: When you are tempted to speak quickly or in anger this week, slow down. Pray to God that he would help you to be faithful to his commands and merciful like he is.

Blessing: May you see the good fruit of trials and seek God’s wisdom in faith. May your willingness to live out God’s teaching lead to a life of blessing.

Lesson 1 and 2 Notes Download

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Psalm 2:11-12 Worship Yahweh with reverence and rejoice with trembling.

Psalm-95:6-7 Come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before Yahweh our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand.

Psalm 99:5 and 9 Exalt Yahweh our God and worship at His footstool; Holy is He. Exalt Yahweh our God and worship at His holy hill, for holy is Yahweh our God. Exalt Yahweh our God and worship at His holy hill, for holy is Yahweh our God.

1. Psalm 3: When he fled from Absalom his son

Reading the history of David in Samuel and Chronicles is most helpful when studying his psalms. The psalms reveal his thinking and heart behind his actions.

1. How many Psalms are written by David?

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Lesson 1 and 2 Notes Download

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The Hebrew word translated “Psalms” is Tehillim which means praise or song of praise. The Greek word for “Psalms” is Psalmoi derived from the verb psallo which means to play a stringed instrument or to sing to accompaniment of a harp and is associated with the singing of songs or hymns.

The Psalms are a collection of songs, prayers, and poems that express a wide range of human emotions and experiences. They provide an example for individuals to express their feelings, whether they are joy, sorrow, praise, thanksgiving, or lament, in the context of their relationship with God. Psalms broaden our ability to effectively communicate with God and to worship Him. They provide insight into God’s character, His promises, plus the proper attitudes and behaviors for those seeking to live a life of faith. Many of the Psalms reflect David’s personal experiences, struggles, and relationship with God and thereby provide a relatable example for spiritually minded individuals to follow.

David1wrote at least 75 psalms and had great influence upon all the psalms except for Psalm 90 that Moses wrote and the few written during the Babylonian captivity. All the other writers were under the supervision and authority of David.

David was a man of extraordinary love and commitment to God. Acts 13:22 states it well – “…’I HAVE FOUND DAVID the son of Jesse, A MAN AFTER MY HEART, who will do all My will.” David’s first recorded words were – “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God?” (1 Samuel 17:26).

David’s final words 1 Chronicles 29:1-23

Psalm 78:70-72

In the time of Moses, God appointed the Levites to care for and carry the tabernacle of covenant. The priests and Levites were also responsible for the many sacrifices that were offered at the tabernacle. When the tabernacle was permanently placed in Jerusalem, David switched their responsibilities and radically changed how the people related to and worshipped Yahweh.

1 Chronicles 16:1-32; 23:1-6, 24-32

Asaph is attached to 12 psalms: 50, 73-83. He was the son of Berachiah, of the family of Gershom, who headed the service of music in the reigns of David and Solomon (1 Chronicles 6:39; 15:17; 16:5; 2 Chronicles 5:12). There was another man with the same name during the Babylonian exile who wrote 74, 79, and 83.

Asaph was a prophet and poet (2 Chronicles 29:30; Nehemiah 12:46). He was one of David’s main musicians along with Heman and Ethan or Jeduthun. Asaph is first mentioned when the Ark of the covenant was moved to Jerusalem from the home of Obed-Edom (1 Chronicles 15:16-19). He led the service of music in the tent where the Ark was kept (1 Chronicles 16:4-37). Four of Asaph’s sons conducted under him and participated in the dedication of the Temple (2 Chronicles 5:12). The “sons of Asaph” are mentioned as choristers in the Temple (1 Chron 25:1; 2 Chron 20:14). He also headed a school of music with 148 students (Nehemiah 7:44). Some 128 of his family returned from Babylon (Ezra 2:41) and served in Zerubbabel’s temple (Ezra 3:10).

The sons of Korah wrote 11 psalms: 42, 44-49, 84-85, 87, 88.

In Numbers 3, God set aside the Levites for full time service to Him. The three sons of Levi−Gershon, Merari, and Kohath plus their descendants−were responsible for the care of the tabernacle and all the implements, as well as the Ark of the Covenant. Only Aaron’s descendants were allowed to serve as priests.

The Kohathites were responsible for the care of the sanctuary under the direct supervision of Eleazar, son of Aaron. Korah was the grandson of Kohath, and he began to run with another group of Reubenite malcontents, namely, Dathan and Abiram. In pride, they roused a group of 250 men together to challenge the right of Moses and Aaron to the priesthood. Because of the rebellion, the ground under them split apart, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them and their households and all those associated with Korah together with their possessions. Then the earth closed over them. Fire came out from Yahweh and consumed the 250 men who were aligned with them.

Although this clearly marked the end of Korah, some sons, perhaps too young to understand their father’s uprising, were spared (Numbers 26:9-11). After seven successive generations, the prophet Samuel arose from the line of Korah (1 Chronicles 6:31–38 and 1 Samuel 1:1, 20). The Korahites became doorkeepers and custodians for the tabernacle (1 Chronicles 9:19–21). One group of Korahites (1 Chronicles 12:6) joined King David in various military exploits and won the reputation of being expert warriors. During the time of King David, they became the great leaders in choral and orchestral music in the tabernacle. Heman the Kohathite had a place of great importance as a singer, along with Asaph and Ethan or Jeduthun. These individuals played an important role in the thanksgiving services and pageantry when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem. David formed an elaborate organization for song, instrumental music, and prophesying through these men.

Heman the Ezrahite wrote Psalm 88. He was from the sons of Korah. Heman was likely both a songwriter and musician. Heman worked closely with King David and is also named a seer in 1 Chronicles 25:5. He was a Levite mentioned with his family line in 1 Chronicles 6:33; “From the Kohathites: Heman, the musician, the son of Joel, the son of Samuel.” He was the grandson of Samuel, the final judge of Israel who anointed King Saul and King David. Heman is listed as one of three main musicians appointed by King David “for the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals” (1 Chronicles 25:1).

Solomon wrote psalm 72 and 127; Moses psalm 90; Ethan the Ezrahite 89.

We have the following instruction in the New Testament:

Ephesians 5:19-20 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father.

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

We have few examples of how to do the above in the New Testament; nonetheless, in Psalms we have 150 great examples.

If you have songs you would like to add to the Worship Yahweh playlist, send a YouTube link to [email protected] or [email protected].

1. David’s name relates to 73 Psalms – 3-9, 11-32, 34-41, 51-65, 68-70, 86, 101, 103, 108-110, 122, 124, 131, 133, 138-145. In the New Testament, he is connected with Psalm 2 in Acts 4:25-26 and with Psalm 95 in Hebrews 4:7.