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Promises for the Journey…

From the Abrahamic and Davidic Covenants to the Spirit (New) Covenant Table of Contents

Winter and Spring Semester The Definition of Covenant Reviewing the Unconditional Covenants

January 7 and 9 – Kick-Off January 14 and 16 – Study NINE: The PROMISE: The Davidic Covenant January 21 and 23 – Study TEN: Hymns and Songs of the Messiah January 28 and 30 – Study ELEVEN: The Messianic Theme of Royalty Suffering: Psalm 22 February 4 and 6 – Study TWELVE: Early Enemies Threaten God’s Promise February 11 and 13 – Study THIRTEEN: MORE Threats to the KINGdom February 18 and 20 – Social BREAK! February 25 and 27 – Study FOURTEEN: The Promised and Expected ONE: Israel's Prophets March 4 and 6 – Study FIFTEEN: The GOSPEL of the COMING ONE: Isaiah's Preview March 11 and 13 – Study SIXTEEN: The NEW Covenant: Jeremiah and Ezekiel March 18 and 20 – Study SEVENTEEN: The PROMISED Seed Arrives March 25 and 27 – Study EIGHTEEN: In these LAST DAYS: the SON, the Final Word: John and Hebrews 1 EASTER BREAK April 8 and 10 – Study NINETEEN: The SUPERIOR, SUPREME Son: Hebrews 2:9-18; 6-9 April 15 and 17 – Study TWENTY: Israel’s SPIRIT Covenant: 2 Cor. 2 April 22 and 24 – Study TWENTY-ONE: New COVENANT Promises April 29 and May 1 – Study TWENTY-TWO: SERVANTS of the New COVENANT May 6 and May 8 – Study TWENTY-THREE: Spirit Transformation May 13 and 15 – Study TWENTY-FOUR: METAPHORS of the Spirit Covenant May 20 and May 22 – Grand Finale

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More Promises on the Journey The Definition of “Covenant”

The following excursus will keep us focused on the foundational understanding of the meaning of

covenant and the resulting promises of these Biblical covenants.

The English Word “Covenant” The English word “covenant” is derived from the Latin con venire (“come together”). A covenant involves the “coming together” of two parties in some kind of mutual agreement. In addition to the idea of “agreement,” the English word is used in the various context of a “compact, contract…undertaking, pledge or promise of one of the parties.” It can mean “a formal agreement…or promise of legal validity.” In older usage it means “vow,” and “matter agreed upon…or promised.” The word can mean the relation (“agreement”), the action of undertaking it (“make a covenant/contract”) or the content (“obligation”) undertaken. The covenant can be bilateral (“agreement of both parties”) or unilateral (“promise of one party”). The range of English meaning is close to that of the secular usage of the biblical words for covenant. The Hebrew Word “Covenant” The Hebrew word for “covenant” is berith and it is regularly accompanied by the verb karath meaning “to make” (literally “to cut”). The OT usage suggests a covenant is “that which bound two parties together.” It was used for many types of bonds. The word was commonly used for covenants between men. For example, the OT records covenants between Abraham and Abimelech (Gen. 21:27; 26:28), Jacob and Laban (Gen. 31:44), and David and Jonathan (1 Sam. 18:3; 23:18). Each of these was a mutually binding agreement between two parties, and this is the primary meaning of berith. More important than those between two men are the divine covenants in which God entered a covenantal relationship with particular men or the nation of Israel. The Bible explicitly mentions covenants with Noah (Gen. 6:18), Abraham (Gen. 15:18), Israel (Ex. 24:8) and David (Ps. 89:3). In addition, Jeremiah foretold the establishment of a “new covenant” (Jer. 31:31) with Israel in a future day. Jesus spoke of His ratification of that covenant at the Last Supper (Lk. 22:20). The Greek Term “Covenant” When the translators of the Septuagint (Latin translation of OT) came to the word berith, they had a choice between two Greek words. The word syntheke is a common word for a compact document of agreement, treaty, or covenant. Septuagint translators deliberately avoided the word, however, because the structure of the word suggests an agreement arrived at by negotiation between equal partners (i.e., as in a bilateral agreement). Instead, they chose the word diatheke which was a legal term used of various forms of a binding expression of will, for example, a testamentary disposition or will (usage not found in the OT), a contract between two persons, and divine ordinances of the most forceful kind. It was a good choice for the divine covenants because they were unilateral dispositions of the sovereign will of God

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Connections to MORE Promises for the Journey Reviewing the Unconditional Covenants

The three eternal and unconditional Covenants made by Yahweh with the nation of Israel and recorded in Scripture established the means by which the LORD would keep the promise made in Genesis 3:15. These Covenants are built on the foundation of God’s determined will and His faithful plan to bring together a people belonging to Him. The promises of the Abrahamic Covenant were given to Abraham. Unconditional and eternal, the Abrahamic Covenant described the personal, national and universal promises through which God would bring into being Abraham’s forever family. They can be remembered by these three words: SEED, LAND, and BLESSING. The basic promises of the Davidic Covenant during the time of the United Monarchy narrows the scope of the seed promise that is within Judah, to David’s son. 1 Chronicles 17:11-14 gives us the spotlight on 2 Samuel 7 which is the floodlight of God’s promises to David, the humble shepherd who became Israel’s King who would rule in their land over the nations. The promises of the Davidic Covenant were given to David. They develop the promise of the ‘seed’ beyond David’s son to a dynasty or line of ROYALTY. The succession of a prominent and powerful family will establish a responsibility of RULE and AUTHORITY granted by the LORD so that the KING’S CITY is identified as Jerusalem! The promises expand the significance of the AC, amplifying it with newer and further applications. They can be remembered by these three words: DYNASTY, THRONE, and DOMINION/KINGDOM. Later in Israel’s history the Spirit Covenant (New Covenant) broadens the scope of the blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant and Davidic Covenant to explain how ‘all nations will be blessed’. It usurps the conditional Mosaic Covenant made by Yahweh with his nation, Israel. It confirms the right of God’s chosen people, Israel, to live by the Spirit in the land in peace where the Messiah will rule because He, Jesus, is King of KINGS and Lord of LORDS! It offers and confirms God’s gift of grace through Christ to the Gentiles who are brought into Abraham’s family of faith! From a church perspective, as members of the Body of Christ, believers in the Jewish Messiah who came, lived, died, rose and ascended to His Father’s right hand. By virtue of grace, they are ‘sons of Abraham, by faith’ and Spirit baptized eternally into Christ’s body so each one personally already enjoys the blessings of the Spirit Covenant, promised in the OT and fulfilled in the NT.

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The Way the Covenants Work Together with the Promises!

Semitic Hebrew Judaic Adam, Abraham, Isaac, Davidic Jacob, Judah, Jesse David’s greater Son David, Solomon, Jesus Seed of the _____ Son of Adam Son of Abraham, Tempted: no sin Substitute for sin Son of David, Son of God, Suffered Saves, Restores Lamb of God Lion of Judah Good Shepherd King of Kings; Tends and feeds Lord of Lords

DAVIDIC Covenant

Seed = Jewish, Davidic dynasty Throne = authoritative scepter ruling from Jerusalem Kingdom = universal rule on earth and eternal dominion

ABRAHAMIC Covenant

Seed – nation Land – a home Blessing – to the whole world…

SPIRIT Covenant (New) Covenant

Seed = Savior for all who believe Land = safe and secure Salvation

Blessings = truth written on the heart Forgiveness, Righteousness, Adoption,

Future, Heaven, Hope, Everything we need for life and godliness, victory, … reigning

with HIM!

Seed of woman

will crush the head of

serpent…

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MORE Promises for the Journey… Study TEN: Hymns and Songs of the Messiah

I Day ONE: Introduction Review the Abrahamic and Davidic Covenants: How God Keeps His Promises. Read Psalm 2 and 22 and verses from the NT that interpret the main points for us.

Read pp. 92-135 over the next few weeks in The Messiah in the Old Testament. We will not study all the messianic psalms Dr. Kaiser addresses. It will suffice to look at four. But it remains important to see how plentiful the focus of the Messiah is in the hymns Israel sang through good times and bad times!

In our study until now, from the OT books of Moses up to the times of the Judges and the United Monarch, we have learned much about the ‘seed, promised by God to Adam, Abraham and David’. He is a Semite (from Shem), Jewish, the Royal son of David (from Judah) who will come to Israel as the Messianic hope. To refresh your mind of how the gospel spoken first by God to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden unfolded in time, let’s review the basic promises of the first two unconditional and eternal Covenants. The ABRAHAMIC Covenant – Gen. 12:1-3; 15; 17:1-14 – Time of the Patriarchs Yahweh calls Abram to leave UR to go to ‘a land’ which God will GIVE him.

Yahweh promises Abram a seed - a son who will multiply (a multitude numbering more than the sand of the seashore and the stars of the heavens). Abram’s seed will inherit that land and Abram’s name will be made great! Yahweh promises Abram that through his seed the whole world will be blessed; those who dishonor his seed (nation later known as Israel) will be cursed and those who bless her, will be blessed. Yahweh confirms the three primary promises of the Abrahamic Covenant to Abraham in a covenantal ceremony where God alone establishes the details and takes responsibility to keep the promises. Abram believes God (Gen. 15:6). Yahweh confirms the promises of the Covenant to Abram by changing his name to Abraham and by giving him the sign of this covenant: circumcision.

BUMPS on the ROAD: What bumps can you recall in Abraham’s life that might have tempted him not to trust God’s promises? Based on Heb. 11:8-12, would you call Abraham’s life a success or failure? Why or why not? MAPQUEST: What about your life? What have you learned from Abraham’s life that encourages you to trust God’s promises even though you might be disappointed or frustrated?

The DAVIDIC Covenant – 2 Samuel 7 – Time of the United Monarchy

The LORD directs Nathan the prophet to tell David what the LORD will do: Make David’s name great in a land where His people Israel will be planted and

dwell undisturbed by violent men. His promises are: Yahweh promises David’s body will produce an offspring of KINGS (a dynasty) Yahweh promises David’s son will rule on a throne in Jerusalem over all nations Yahweh promises David’s kingdom would be established now and forever

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BUMPS on the ROAD: David wanted to build a Temple for God, but God said no. It was a good idea, but it wasn’t God’s idea. Have you ever wanted to do something for the Lord that was different to His plan for you? If so, what was it and how did you deal with the ‘no’ answer? MAPQUEST: What about your life? What instructions from God’s Word do you know the Lord wants you to obey? In what ways do you discipline yourself to develop habits of obedience to Christ? II Day TWO: The Messianic theme of ROYALTY in the Psalms: Characteristics It is during the time of King David and his son, King Solomon, that much of Israel’s Psalter was written. Half of the 150 songs were written by David. In general, the authors of the Psalms focused on praise, lament and calls to memorization and prayer under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. They reflect attitudes of reverence and respect by writers who spoke of joy, indwelling sin, and open cries for help from Yahweh. Many of Israel remembered Yahweh’s historical, redemptive work on her behalf. Within the hope of final deliverance comes the promise of a messiah. The collective voice of the nation anticipates the coming of a promised messiah though they would not understand the whole program. Here are five characteristics that mark the messianic psalms. 1. “Most of the messianic psalms are written by David” (Deffinbaugh sec. 3). Since Jesus came from the line of David, it is reasonable that David would be the author of the messianic psalms. 2. The Jewish population did not understand the psalms called “messianic psalms” as intended to foretell the future until after Christ rose from the grave. This is clear in the NT writings (Matthew, Peter, Luke and others) where these Psalms are referred to as sources confirming fulfilled promises and prophecy. 3. “Most of the messianic psalms speak both of David’s experience and of the Messiah’s experiences at the same time” (sec. 3). David wrote with one idea in his mind in history. God had an entirely different event in His mind for the future Son from the same words as the Spirit inspired David to write. This was redemptive, or salvation, history and in Christ, it is fulfilled. 4. Jesus understood the messianic psalms as prophecy; living and speaking in accordance with them. 5. Fast forward to our times as believers in Christ (Messiah). Because David’s life experiences were typically fulfilled in Christ, those same words give us the principles to live by: we have a Savior, Messiah, Son of God, who because he suffered and conquered sin and death, can save us from deepest distress when we believe in Him, bow in humility before Him, and call for help from Him. BUMPS on the ROAD: Around 3000 years from the first promise of a ‘seed’ who would triumph over the enemy of our souls (Gen. 3:15) until David’s time. What does Hebrews 11:13-16 say kept them going and waiting in spite of the fact that the promises were still in the future?

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MAPQUEST: What are some promises that ‘keep you going’ as you walk with the Lord Jesus by faith? What do you long most for as you look toward the future?

III Day THREE: The Messianic theme of ROYALTY RULING: Psalm 2 and the Nations “The New Testament quotes the Psalms directly at least ninety-six times with perhaps two hundred more clear allusions” (Baylis 245). The promises made to David in the Davidic Covenant – and later, his son Solomon – gave David a sense of the future King of Israel – his life, his rule, his character and what the ideal King Messiah could and would be.

As you read this Psalm, notice how the promises include and expand the details of both the Abrahamic and the Davidic Covenants in marvelous fashion. In particular, take a note of those details and focus on the truth the Psalmist makes about the Messiah. These Psalms give us some of the most beautiful promises of the coming Messianic King written during the time in the United Kingdom and carry with them particular HOPE for Israel and confidence for people like us.

1. Are you surprised by the attitude of the nations toward the Messiah? (Remember, the word ‘anointed’ means Messiah or Christ.) How serious is their problem (v. 1-3)?

2. Why should the nations be concerned about their future (v. 4-6, 9)? What would you say to the leaders of the nations in the 21st C about God’s words in v. 6?

3. The basis of the Messiah’s right to power over the nations is alluded to in v. 7. Three times this phrase is quoted in the NT to clarify God’s pleasure with His Son. Explain why it is important based on these verses:

a. In Paul’s explanation in Acts 13:32, 33 – b. As an exclusive term used by God in Heb. 1:5 – c. As an appointment by God of Christ in Heb. 5:5 –

4. The Davidic King recalls the ‘decree’ the LORD spoke about through Jacob (Gen. 49:10 regarding the obedience of the peoples) and to David about his ‘seed’ or offspring (see 2 Sam. 7:12-16). What will the nations become some day because of Christ (v. 8,9)?

5. What warning does the Psalmist make to individual people (rulers, leaders) in the face of the coming King? Comment on what people must do to avoid God’s wrath.

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BUMPS on the ROAD: Have you noticed any raging among the nations against the Christ during our days? Have you noticed personal ways unbelievers ‘rage’ in a similar fashion against your faith in the Messiah (the Christ)? What ‘eternal bump’ will all non-believers suffer if they do not ‘kiss the Son’? MAPQUEST: The closing promise (v. 12b) in this messianic psalm has the power to change everything. What does it depend on (v. 11)? Describe the personal security believers have because we take refuge in him. IV Day FOUR: The RULING and Judging Messiah: A look into the future of the Promised seed! This Psalm speaks of the Messiah as the One who God will install as His King over Israel and have the right to rule the nations (v. 7 - 9). It is a good example of how warnings about David’s ‘Son’ have both immediate and distant fulfillment. Based on Jesus’ reliance on His authority as Messiah who believed and quoted Ps. 2, the following passages are worth reading, so you will know how the story of the nations will one day end.

1. Read Matthew 25:31-46. Jesus describes how the nations and people are judged by the Messiah following the harsh days of tribulation (before the Kingdom is set up on earth). What strikes you as significant about the two groups and the choices they made? Ps. 110

2. Read Revelation 21:9-27 where John describes the New Jerusalem. This is not the time to define all the terms, though you will be enthralled by the beauty of the city and where all believers (the Bride of the Lamb) will live forever! Look at v. 22-27 to see another chapter in the story of those from the nations whose lives were changed!

V Day FIVE: Meditate and Memorize Psalm 2 The Father was pleased with the Son who did everything the Father told him to do as the God-man. Because of this, the Father raised His Son to life and gave Him authority at His right hand to offer forgiveness to those who bow to Him as well as judge the nations. As you meditate on this Psalm and see the present unfold into the future as written in Scripture, ask yourself whether or not you are completely satisfied with the Father’s only begotten Son. Do you find yourself thinking there may be more to spiritual growth than knowing Him better? Do you set yourself down each day and remind yourself of Who He is and why finding refuge in Him is the only place of safety and satisfaction? If you are pleased with Him, it will be evident in your life! “Know therefore…be wise; be warned…serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling. Kiss

the Son…blessed are all who take refuge in Him.” (Ps. 2:10-12)

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MORE Promises for the Journey… Study ELEVEN: The Messianic Theme of ROYALTY SUFFERING: Psalm 22

I Day ONE: Introduction Read Psalm 22

This Psalm portrays the suffering of Messiah on the cross of Calvary. The way we know David is speaking prophetically of Jesus is seen in the way Jesus himself quotes from David’s words in Psalm 22 during His agony. Kaiser calls it “one of the most profound psalms in the repertoire of passional psalms” (p. 111).

BUMPS on the ROAD: Based on what we have read so far, has a suffering ‘seed’ or powerless Messiah been portrayed in passages we have studied? Why would a weak or suffering Messiah contradict what Israel expected? Why would even the disciples expect the promise of the dominion by David’s Son as King ruling the nations? See Mt. 16:21-23, Luke 24:13-35

MAPQUEST: Even after the cross and resurrection, the disciples expected Jesus to make a quick transfer of power from Rome to Israel (see Acts 1:1-8). In a similar way, some of us may have expectations the Lord has not seen fit to fulfill. How would you encourage another believer to relinquish power to the Lord and trust His timing in areas you assume He should work ‘now’?

II Day TWO: The LAMENT of the King – The Pressure of Enemies

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, David lamented about his suffering and “…saw (and wrote) his descendant resembling, but far surpassing, himself in suffering…” (Kaiser, p. 113). As the disciples witnessed Jesus’ sufferings on the cross, these statements from David in this Psalm would have become clearer to them.

1. Read Psalm 22. Notice how it breaks into two parts and notice where the conjunctions (yet, but) occur! a. What does the first half focus on? (v. 1-21) What mood is apparent in the words the Psalmist

is using? In what verses does he remind himself of God’s person?

b. Most ‘lament’ Psalms do not end with lamentation. Ps. 22 is no different. What emphasis does the second half celebrate? (v. 22-31) What kind of words does the Psalmist use so the mood changes?

2. During the agony of the Lord Jesus, He speaks seven of David’s phrases from this Psalm thereby fulfilling His identity as the Messiah, David’s greater Son. As well, He confirms that He will be hated, abused, despised and suffer at the hands of His enemies. Consider the specific moments Jesus quoted David’s words; comment on his anguish.

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a. Matt. 27:46 and Mark 15:34 fulfill v. 1 and describes…

b. Matt. 27:43 fulfills v. 7 and describes…

c. Mathew 27:43 fulfills v. 8 and describes…

d. John 18:28 fulfills v. 15 and describes…

e. John 20:25, 27 fulfill v. 16 and describes…

f. Matt. 27:35 fulfills v. 17 and describes…

g. Matt. 27:36 fulfills v. 18 and describes…

BUMPS on the ROAD: Discuss the inner grief David describes that Jesus experienced when he cried out to God. Explain a time when it felt like God had turned his back on you, when enemies despised you, when mockers disdained you and came at you like wolves, when your body was weak under the stress of life, when there was nothing you could do but call our ‘help’ (v. 19)!

MAPQUEST: What action does the Psalmist teach us we should practice in order to establish us? (The second part of the Psalm delineates how and why this is important.)

III Day THREE: The CHOICE to REMEMBER God’s Sovereign will and Coming Glory – Ps. 22

Did you notice that every time the Psalmist lamented his situation, he broke into his own conversation with words like ‘But’… and ‘Yet’… and reminded himself of two things: who God is and what God can do.

1. What in v. 24 captures the secret to obeying when it feels that everyone, including God, is against you?

2. What specific things does the Psalmist delineate about what God does that keeps him strong in these desperately hard times. David’s enemy, Saul, and other betrayers wanted him dead. For Jesus, it is clear his enemies achieved their desires!

WHO God is WHAT God has done/can do

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BUMPS on the ROAD. This messianic psalm teaches us that David’s suffering is typical of Christ’s suffering. In turn, this horrendous suffering experienced by Messiah, takes us beyond David’s enemies and suffering to show that God does for us what we can’t do for ourselves. How does Heb. 5:7-10 help us better understand this principle? (No wonder the OT saints and the disciples expected a ‘ruling Messiah’; wouldn’t a ‘suffering Messiah’ be a weak Messiah?)

MAPQUEST: What would have happened had the Messiah only come as a ‘ruler’ and ‘victor’ and not as the suffering sin-bearer? What promise comes to us in Heb. 5:9 because he learned obedience?

IV Day FOUR: The BENEFITS of the promised Suffering King – The God of all Comfort

God’s ways are not our ways. A suffering Messiah would seem to defeat the purpose of the political power promised. Yet, based on Psalm 22, it is clear that both David as the Psalmist and Jesus as the Son of David and Son of God found comfort in Who God is and What He can and will do at the very time the enemies of their souls were biting at their heels.

1. In keeping with the focus on Christ’s suffering…What practical benefit does the Apostle Paul attribute to God in 2 Corinthians 1:3-11?

2. In your own words, describe how Paul learned to view suffering in relationship to God’s comfort and in turn, his ability to comfort other believers who were suffering.

3. What part do we play in each other’s lives when life gets hard? (v. 11)

MAPQUEST: Please share a time when in your hard times or suffering, God alone comforted you through His Word. Was there a time when another believer helped you to stay strong in spite of difficulties? How did their reliance on Christ in times of despair comfort you?

V Day FIVE: Meditate and Memorize

The fact that the ‘seed’, ‘deliverer’, ‘ruler’, ‘prophet’ would not only have the power to call the nations to task, but qualify to meet the deepest needs of our heart is reason to thank Him for what He suffered.

The seed of the woman…our Lord Jesus Christ…is the man of sorrows who is acquainted with grief. It is in this very humble role He entered that compels us to come to Him for rest and peace. But he too is the King that will someday come. He promises that one day, the earth and the families of the nations shall worship before him.

“From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will perform before those who fear him. The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the LORD! May your

hearts live forever! All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations shall worship before you. For kinship belongs to the LORD and he rules over

the nations.” (Psalm 22:25-28)

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MORE Promises for the Journey… CLOSING REMARKS for Consideration and Confidence (optional)

Lessons from messianic psalms for NT believers

1. Many of the messianic prophecies have already been fulfilled, down to the last detail. How does this assure us of the accuracy and reliability of the Word of God?

2. If all the prophecies pertaining to the first coming of Christ were fulfilled precisely, why do we

have every reason to believe that the remaining prophecies will also be fulfilled? Roughly half the messianic prophecies of the OT are still awaiting fulfillment, e.g., the promise of Messiah’s coming to judge the wicked, to establish His kingdom in righteousness etc. How do these messianic future prophecies serve to be the basis for our faith and hope? See Rev. 22:20 to aid you with your answer.

3. The focus of the messianic psalms tells of the future suffering of Messiah (now ‘past’ for us) and

the future glory of the King and His Kingdom (still ‘future’ for us). How should the emphasis on these two Messiahs guide our worship of the Lord Jesus Christ?

The Psalms listed below are written from within the United Monarchy period: David and Solomon’s Kingdoms. They depict the reign of the Righteous King of Israel, who judges the people in righteousness and justice and vindicates the afflicted. Each Psalm represents a specific focus related to the promised King of Israel, establishing His person, authority and the characteristics of his reign. In all these messianic psalms, Kaiser (p. 83) reminds us that we move in this direction:

1. From ‘the seed of the woman’ who will be victorious over Satan. 2. To ‘the seed of Abraham’ who will be a blessing to all the earth. 3. To the ‘seed of David’ who will have a rule that will never end.

Psalm 89 – by Ethan; focused on Yahweh’s mercies, faithfulness and reliability in granting the promises to David. v. 21-33 celebrate the twelve promises made to David in Nathan’s prophecy in spite of the bumps that have occurred along the way to Judah by her enemies.

Psalm 132 – one of 15 ‘Psalms of Ascent’ sung by Pilgrims about the promises Yahweh made to David regarding the house he wanted to build for God (denied to him) now built by Solomon. Some of the words are included in 2 Chron. 6:41-43. The Psalm is based on 2 Sam. 7:13.

Psalm 110 – quoted most in the NT and focuses on ‘the conquering King’ and the ‘enthroned Messiah’ and is written around two divine utterances: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for my feet’ (v. 1) and ‘You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek’ (v. 4). This is Messiah, the King-Priest.

Psalm 2 – composed during David’s time (his enemies are real) and focuses on the raging nations who are urged to ‘get smart, be warned, fear the Lord’ since only those who ‘take refuge in Him are blessed’.

Psalm 118 – A Psalm on the ‘stone the builders rejected who has become the chief capstone’ and reminds Israel that God’s ‘hesed’, one day will install the coming Anointed One on the ancient throne of David because of the enduring promises made to Abraham and David.

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Psalm 69 – quoted more in the NT than any Psalm except Ps. 110! A sufferer calls to the Father from serious trouble: he sinks in deep mire and is hated without a cause. The writer cries out imprecations against his enemies desiring God’s justice against them as well as redemption.

Psalm 109 – by David, having suffered physical, social and spiritual persecution laments, appeals to God to intervene. Ten judgments are railed against one enemy (v. 6-19 & John 13:27) Judas/Satan.

Psalm 22 – a most profound psalm by David whose sufferings resembled but were transcended by the One historical sufferer: Jesus Christ in his sufferings on the cross. Focus is on the ‘gloom of suffering (v. 1-21 – My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?) and the final triumph over death and suffering (v. 22-31 – It is finished!).

Psalm 16 – by David as he foretells of the resurrection of Christ (Messiah), expressing exuberant joy and happiness in the Holy One/Favorite One, the one in whom God manifests his grace and favor: the offspring of the woman Eve: Shem, the patriarchs, Judah, David and the FINAL ONE who will not suffer corruption and will live and rule forever!

Psalm 40 – the Psalmist offers thanksgiving and gratitude to God for deliverance as well as a request for speedy deliverance from his foes. It is David’s presentation to God of his willing and obedient spirit to carry out what is written of him ‘in the scroll’. He delights in what is written!

Psalm 45 – a wedding song but not of earthly nuptials, but a poem celebrating a wedding for the Heavenly Bridegroom and his elect bride. The illustrious king is a most remarkable person (v. 6): a divine ruler, with an eternal kingdom, an anointed ruler and a righteous ruler who wields a scepter of justice. The King’s bride is his believing body of offspring.

Psalm 68 – by David from a victorious return from battle similar to the great triumph of Messiah as depicted in v. 18, the ‘heart verse’ (quoted of Christ in Eph. 4:7). The person depicted ‘ascends on high with a train of captives after which he receives and gives gifts’! The ultimate goal of Messiah’s advent is a retrieved Israel, a settled victor in Jerusalem to whom Gentile nations bring tribute.

Psalm 78 – a ‘direct messianic prediction’ Psalm that uses the future tense representing the Messiah as ruling in righteousness, justice and peace from ‘sea to sea’ while receiving the homage of the nations. Three prayers entreat God that all nations will be ‘blessed through him’, God’s Man of Promise who is to come and closes with the doxology on which Isaac Watts based this song:

Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun. Jesus shall reign where’er the sun, does its successive journeys run.

His kingdom spread from shore to shore, till moons shall wax and wane no more.

BUMPS on the ROAD: The Psalms comfort us and the messianic psalms in particular, paint a picture of the promised ‘seed of the woman’, the Messiah’s person and the Messiah’s future. What would have comforted the nation of Israel at different times in her history from the messianic psalms? What might have troubled the nation of Israel at different times in her history?

MAPQUEST: In what ways do these same statements or promises comfort you?

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More Promises for the Journey Study TWELVE: Enemies Threaten the Seed

I Day ONE: Introduction

Read passages included for the specific days. As God unfolded redemption history, his promises were progressively disclosed but not finished concerning the ‘seed of the woman’ from Gen. 3:15. As Dr. Kaiser says:

“The promise-plan of Messiah was not concluded when the days of the covenant promises made to Eve, Shem, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and David were over. On the contrary, these same promises began to proliferate and blossom beyond anything anyone could have imagined!” (p. 136)

During Patriarchal times, various kinds of enemies threatened the birth of the ‘seed of the woman’. The three Patriarchs’ wives were barren! (Sara – Gen. 16:1-2; Rebekah – Gen. 25:21; and Rachel – Gen. 30:1-3) God intervened in their infertility! Jacob’s grandsons from Judah tried to cut off bearing offspring and Judah’s immorality produced the seed. During Moses’ time, the Pharoah sought to slaughter all male babies two years and under. During the times of the Judges, Israel urged Gideon (from Mannasseh) to become the king (Jud. 8:22-26) and he refused. The selfish demand of Israel to have a king gave them the unspiritual leader, Saul, from Benjamin! Hardly God’s Messiah! During the United Monarchy of David, when the Davidic Covenant was given and later in Solomon’s time, intentional attempts were made by enemies to interrupt the true godly line. These deliberate intrusions are couched in presumption and intrigue. They show us how even before the Christ (Messiah) came in the fullness of time, the rogue spirit of ‘anti-Christ’ was alive and well.

DAVID’S ROYAL FAMILY – see chart on page 18 II Day TWO: Enemies of the ‘seed’ from WITHOUT: Jealousy

1. Read 1 Samuel 24 (especially v. 10) Saul (following God’s rejection of him and anointing of David’s) is David’s primary antagonist. David had been chosen by God to be the next King of Israel. Samuel anointed him, but Saul’s raging jealousy drove him to seek David’s life for 20 years. Many of David’s Psalms speak of Saul’s wicked schemes against David. After Saul’s death, David was crowned king of Israel.

a. What do you suppose drove Saul to want to chase and kill David? (see 1 Sam. 18:1-9)

b. How did David treat King Saul when Saul was vulnerable? (1 Samuel 24, especially v. 8-15)

What principle does David state in 1 Samuel 24:10?

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BUMPS on the ROAD: Proverbs comments on the intense power of jealousy. How does jealousy destroy the person who is angered? Why did God reject Saul as King and choose David to be King? MAPQUEST: In Revelation 12:7-12, a major defeat takes place and the devil is overcome by Michael the archangel and his angels. After thousands of years of ‘accusing the brethren’, the devil is finally cast down to earth. In what ways can believers behave like Saul with David? How is it possible for believers to ‘accuse other believers’ and so help do the devil’s work? How do you guard your heart against jealousy and your tongue against slander of others? III Day THREE: Enemies of the ‘seed’ from WITHIN: Presumption and Violation David’s many wives caused him much grief. And as a result of David’s sin with Bathsheba, God said through Nathan the prophet that murder would be a constant threat in David’s family, his family would rebel and someone else would sleep with his wives. It all happened as Nathan said. The consequences of sin affect not only us, but those we know and love.

1. Read 2 Samuel 15 Absalom, son of David’s wife Maacah was one of David’s handsome sons. He killed his half-brother Amon for raping his sister Tamar (2 Samuel 13:1-36). The murder estranged David and Absalom from each other and when Absalom was returned to favor, he stole the kingdom from his father. (2 Samuel 15:1-18:33 tells the whole story but Chapter 15 is sufficient for the following questions. Chapters 16 and 17 describe the intrigue and 18, how Absalom was killed.) a. What did Absalom do to draw the people away from David? Why is his sin of ‘presumption’ so

insidious? (check the definition of presumption to clarify)

b. How did Absalom’s rebellion against David contradict God’s promise to David? (It is not

recorded in 2 Samuel or 1 Kings but IS in 1 Chron. 22:6-10.) c. One aspect of the ‘enemies against the promise’ for David is a very sad one. 2 Samuel 16:15-

23 records how his once trusted and closest advisor, Ahithophel (as well as others in his cabinet) betrayed David by siding with Absalom. In Ps. 41:9, how does David describe him?

d. The same kind of thing happened to the Son of David, Messiah. How does Jesus describe HIS

once trusted advisor in Mt. 26:45-50? Don’t forget, this man ‘carried the purse’ for Jesus and the disciples, so he had their trust.

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BUMPS on the ROAD: 2 Samuel 18 tells how Absalom is ultimately put to death by Joab (another story in itself!). To respect the Lord (and the Lord’s choice of ‘seed’) requires we refuse to have a prideful heart. MAPQUEST: The issue of whether we respect God’s choice of the promised seed is directly related to our respect of God Himself. Whether it is the hate of the Iranian President for Israel, an atheist’s refusal to believe in God, or an unbeliever’s disbelief in the Lord Jesus Christ, the issue is an issue of respect and authority. How would you describe your personal ‘fear of the Lord’ and respect of Him, His Word and His works? How do you increase your respect of God and man? IV Day FOUR: Enemies from WITHIN: PRIDE, Sin and USURPING Authority Fast forward to the last days of David. You will find the story in 1 Kings 1, and once again meet another one of David’s sons – handsome ADONIJAH whose mother was Haggith. In a nutshell, he set himself up as king before David’s death. His plot was exposed, and David spared his life. His half-brother Solomon, whom God had chosen as David’s successor, later had him executed.

1. ADONIJAH – ‘exalting himself’ Read 1 Kings 1

a. Do you agree that Adonijah’s motive behind becoming king was pride? He was David’s first born son and boasts “I will be king” (1 Kings 1:5-6). Read Ezekiel and notice who else uses that phrase, determining how he will rise up and be like God? (see Ezekiel 28:11-19) (Remember, the King of Tyre symbolizes God’s Arch Enemy.)

b. What is magnificent in the way Nathan and Bathsheba handle this most terrible interruption of the ‘godly seed’ God has chosen to rule Israel?

2. ADONIJAH – ‘determined to get his own way’ Read 1 Kings 2:10-34 a. What is deceitful about the request Adonijah makes to have Abishag as his wife? Why do you

think he asks Bathsheba instead of Solomon?

b. What is Solomon’s evaluation of this bold request? How is Adonijah kept from usurping himself into the role of ‘promised king’? (1 Kings 2:21-25)

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BUMPS on the ROAD: Once again, pride motivates political intrigue to move God’s plan away from what He has purposed. What is wise about Solomon’s view of Adonijah? What is the main thing that established Solomon’s reign? MAPQUEST: Humility is a characteristic Jesus Himself spoke of having in Matt. 11:28-30. How do you go about finding ‘rest from your pride’ as you obey His call to you to ‘come to Him and find rest’?

V Day FIVE: Meditation and Memorization As we continue through the journey of God unfolding His revelation of the ‘seed, Messiah, Christ’ to rescue His own from death, the plot will only get thicker. In each situation – right up to the betrayal and death of Christ and until the final anti-Christ makes his appearance – how pride, first with Satan and then within man, resists God’s grace. It is good then, to see how clearly Scripture warns us against pride and urging us toward fear of the Lord.

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the LORD, and He will lift you up.” James 4:10

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have

suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 5:6-11

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Chart for Study Twelve

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MORE Promises for the Journey Study THIRTEEN: More Threats to the KINGdom

I Day ONE: Introduction

Read Deuteronomy 17:14-20 Read 1 Kings 2:1-9; 3:1-14; 10:23-11:13; Read 1 Chron. 28 At this point in our study, two things become clear:

- In retrospect, Yahweh’s instructions for Israelite kings documented by Moses are not unclear! They are given in Dt. 17:14-20 and delineate the responsibilities of the king God will someday appoint.

- The record of David’s line of Kings recorded before the exile by Jeremiah in 1 & 2 Kings reads like

a roller coaster! From the transition of David’s dynasty to the final days of Judah in 605 B.C., the ‘royal seed’ is threatened by a plethora of enemies, including the kings themselves as they ignore the very instructions given to them by God. (The companion books of 1 & 2 Chronicles, written after the exile, fill out the story of the godly seed from Adam to Judah’s exile and subsequent return (via Cyrus’ decree) to Jerusalem (538 B.C.).

1. What does Yahweh expect to be true of and practiced by the King of Israel? (Dt. 17:14-20)

2. What does David urge Solomon to do in 1 Kings 2:1-9 and 1 Chron. 28:9, 10; 20, 21 concerning… a. God’s instructions (1 K 2:2-4) b. Joab (one of David’s military men - 1 K 2:5-6) c. Barzillai (a man who remained faithful to David – 1 K 2:7) d. Shimei (a man who sought to cry judgment on David – 1 K 2:8-9)

3. David, the man after God’s own heart, had great plans for Yahweh’s house. It was a good thing David wanted but not God’s thing for him. How did God orchestrate His will in spite of David’s desires based on 1 Chron. 28:1-7?

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BUMPS on the ROAD: God made His promises clear to David about his dynasty through his son Solomon. In turn, David called Solomon to never forget to obey the Law of Yahweh. In fact, all the kings of Judah were measured ‘good’ or ‘bad’ by whether their heart was like David’s and followed God’s word. Why are God’s instructions and His Law central to the spiritual success of Israel’s King according to 1 K 2:2-4? (see the chart of the Kings of Israel and Judah “Kings & Prophets” on pages 24-25 ). MAPQUEST: How do you explain God’s pleasure with David in spite of the sins of his life? (Ps. 32 and 51 may be a clue to this.) How does David’s life teach us about God’s grace in raising up a ‘Jewish offspring’ in the life of David and Solomon? How has God shown grace to you in your life in spite of your sins? II Day TWO: Solomon’s Demise: Enemies of the ‘seed’ Adonijah’s failed bid to be Israel’s next king and Bathsheba and Nathan’s reminder of God’s promise about Solomon in 1 Kings 1:28-32 ensures us that not even a manipulating, determined man can thwart God’s promise. 1 Kings 1:38-40 confirms God’s choice of Solomon. The story of Solomon, in many ways, is a wonderful success story. He is the wisest man who ever lived with his wealth and power obvious to Israel and to regions far beyond (e.g., the Queen of Sheba!). He starts out well as recorded in 1 Kings 3:3-14. His 1,005 songs and 3,000 proverbs, obedience in building the Temple and provision of peace for the nation is proof! But despite the fact that Solomon was a profuse writer with practical wisdom, established the kingdom and built the Temple, his life ended in disaster.

1. What choices recorded in 1 Kings 3:1-2 sets Solomon up for failure? Is there any good reason for Solomon to have done this?

2. What promises and warnings from the LORD should Solomon have listened to from 1 Kings 9:1-9?

3. What crisis described in 1 Kings 11:1-13 – especially vv. 4, 11-13 – occurs that could have put the kingdom of David in jeopardy? (Remember what Solomon multiplied!)

BUMPS on the ROAD: The LORD judged Solomon’s choices by tearing away tribes from his kingdom from Solomon. In what ways did Solomon cause his own downfall? In what ways did greed and idolatry tear his heart away from Yahweh? What goes on inside someone who starts well for the LORD and ends badly?

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MAPQUEST: In the record of the kings of Israel, ten tribes made up the Northern Kingdom (Solomon’s servant was Jeroboam I) and two tribes made up the kings of Judah, the Southern Kingdom (Solomon’s son was Rehoboam). No kings end well in the North, a few more than six end well in the South. How might any of these things stumble you as you get to the end of your life: disobedience to God’s Word, personal greed, lust, idolatry? What does it take to ‘finish well’? III Day THREE: The Southern Kingdom: Threats on the Godly Seed There are 20 kings in the Southern Kingdom, six of whom are good all their lives. Two begin well and end badly; one is wicked all his life until the end when he repents! Rehoboam, the son of Solomon cannot take wise advice and the kingdom of Judah is off to a bad start.

1. Rehoboam’s Folly!

a. Rehoboam starts his reign by asking for _____________. (See 1 K. 12:1-15) b. Rehoboam ignores the _______men’s advice. (1 K 12:6-8a) c. Rehoboam prefers and receives the ___________ men’s advice. (1 K 12:8b-10, 15) d. Rehoboam’s decision __________the Monarchy into two and Israel rebels! (1 K 12:16-20)

BUMPS on the ROAD: What was at the heart of Rehoboam’s change in policy with the people? What did Dt. 17:18-20 say regarding the future kings of Israel in their relationship to God’s Word and God’s people? MAPQUEST: We know from Dt. 17 how God’s KING should behave: he is to be humble and serve the people. We have seen David shepherd the people and watched Solomon begin well and end badly. What Scriptural ingredients produce a life well-lived that finishes well? IV Day FOUR: The Northern Kingdom: Jeroboam There is not time to study the 20 kings in the Northern Kingdom, but it is important to notice who becomes King in the Northern Kingdom, how he sets up Israel’s worship, and how NO king is good! None of the kings follow after Yahweh, and an evil, idolatrous and wicked presence rules.

1. The INTRUSION of IDOLATROUS Apostasy

a. Jeroboam is not royal (1 Kings 11:26-28) nor are the kingdoms of Israel’s kings! (see 1 K 11:29-40 and ) Who was he?

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b. His fame was foretold by the __________ Ahijah (1 Kings 11:29-35). What would happen to him? (1 Kings 11:37)

c. When Israel heard of Rehoboam’s harsh ways, she ____________against Solomon’s son and followed ______________; (1 K 12:16-20). The prophecy came true.

d. Jeroboam led Israel into_____________: (1 K 12:29)

BUMPS on the ROAD: Idolatry and paganism is ‘spirituality without the Spirit of God’. What past event does Jeroboam’s plan for Israel remind you of? What is the motive behind this godless Monarch’s choices in 1 Kings 12:25-31, especially v. 26-29). MAPQUEST: The historical event of the setting up of golden calves in Bethel and Dan is a watershed for Israel: they choose idolatry and pagan religion. In the Northern Kingdom, no godly King ever rules, NOR do godly priest represent the people. In our times, are there any parallels of godless religion? How is it possible for leaders to ‘sound spiritual’ yet be pagan and idolatrous? What does Scripture say that qualifies someone as a ‘true Christian believer’? (Start with Rom. 10:9-10)

1. The INTERRUPTION of MURDER by wicked Queen Athaliah During the 9th C in Israel, there were two wicked kings, Omri and his son, Ahab. Both apostate, Ahab only furthered his pagan heart by marrying the Sidonian princess, Jezebel. (It is during this dynasty that we meet Elijah, one of the most striking figures in the Bible!) Their daughter, wicked Athaliah married into the Southern Kingdom of Judah. With both her husband (King Jehoram/Joram) and son (King Ahaziah) dead, Athaliah created a plot to end the Dynasty of King David and make herself Queen. Read 2 Kings 11:1-20.

1. Tell the story in your own words. Who are the heroes of this story?

2. How does this story confirm the fact that ‘you cannot sin successfully forever’ and ‘God’s Promises cannot be thwarted’?

V Day FIVE: Meditation and Memorization Psalm 36 captures this story in poem confirming God’s faithfulness to his children and his promises.

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Chart for Study 13 & 14

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Chart for Study 13 & 14 Continued

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Chart for Study 13 & 14

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MORE Promises on the Journey Study FOURTEEN: The Promised and Expected ONE: Israel’s Prophets

I Day One: Introduction

1. REASON to study the prophets: Why follow the trail of the promise of the ‘seed of the woman’? For three reason: a. The OT prophetic books (Isaiah to Malachi) are part of the Spirit’s “All Scripture is God-

breathed and profitable/useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16). The 17 books make up 40% of the OT and 26% of the Bible.

b. We study them because they give us insight into the character and promises of God! Many of the passages help us identify and understand the life of Jesus Christ because of them.

c. When we look at these books, we are forced to consider ALL of God’s Word. They are like glue that connects the OT and NT together to show us how faithful God has been and how certain are His ways!

2. PURPOSE of this study

The purpose of this study is so we will glean the additional revelation from God given to the Israelite fathers through the Prophets about the nature and coming Messiah (anointed One, the Christ). Their goal was to remind the nation of Israel that Messiah would both fulfill God’s PROMISE and transform His people’s hearts. This may look like a ‘laundry list’ but our purpose is to catch the importance of the specific details identifying who the godly seed would be.

3. The MESSIANIC Doctrine

“This ‘messianic doctrine’ was preached by the prophets sung in the Psalms, built into the temple, rose with the smoke of every sacrifice, was the quickener of Israel’s conscience, the bulwark against idolatry, the protection of patriotism from despair, the comfort under affliction, the warning against temptation, the recall to the wandering; in short, it was a doctrine of salvation offered to Israel (nation) and every Israelite (personal); more than this, it was Israel’s missionary call to the nations, inviting all without exception to turn to the service of Yahweh.” (Kaiser 137) II Day TWO: Ninth Century Prophets: What they said about the PROMISED MESSIAH. Read the specific verses in each of the books to capture the prophets’ description of Messiah. The chart of Kings and Prophets on pages 24-25 gives dates to help you.

1. Joel – date uncertain; audience uncertain Read Kaiser, p. 139-142.

Joel 2:11 – preaches on ‘The Day of the LORD’ which is a period in the future when the Lord will conclude his work of salvation and judgment on a universal and cosmic scale – typically seen as a plague in past history and grave judgment in the future.

Joel 2:28-29 – Joel speaks of the promise given to the Jews that the Holy Spirit would come in the future on Jewish sons and daughters. The near fulfillment promise is given by in John 16:7-15 and Acts 1:8.

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Explain how this occurred among the Jewish disciples/apostles? Revelation 7 and 12 confirm the distant fulfillment. How does this occur?

The ‘seed’ will be a (Joel 2:23) Joel calls the nation to ‘repent’ and ‘return’ to the Lord, perhaps during a revival led by Jehoida, Joash’s uncle. Kaiser explains how this role of Messiah is like , which occurred when God’s Spirit came at Pentecost. The Spirit taught God’s Word to His people in the past (2:19-27) and will again in the future in Israel in a time to come (2:28-3:21). III Day THREE: Eighth Century Prophets: What they said about the

PROMISED MESSIAH.

1. Amos – 760-753 B.C. to Northern Kingdom Read Kaiser, pp. 145-148

Amos 3:1-2 – preaches on Yahweh’s punishment on Israel Amos 8:11-12 – preaches on how God will the send a physical and spiritual famine so they will thirst for food from the land and hunger for the word.

Yahweh will raise up or ‘ ’ the house of . (Amos 9:11-12) Amos says God will ‘wall up their rents’ (rips) and bring the northern ten tribes back into the fold of the Davidic kingship after years of the ‘fallen booth’. As well, the ‘non-Jewish remnant (Edom) and other Gentile nations will come under David’s tent in the way Acts 15:14-18 explains where James quotes Amos. The once broken down house of David will someday be res and unified!

2. Hosea – 755-710 B.C. (in the last hours of the Northern Kingdom’s existence)

Hosea 4:1 – brings a charge against Israel: there is no mercy or knowledge of God Hosea 1:7-9 – preaches on Israel’s determination to backslide from the LORD and how God’s loyal love for Israel will one day come to her. The Messiah will be considered the second D . Hosea 3:4-5 The near fulfillment in Christ can be seen in Hosea 11:1 in Matthew’s words in Matt. 2:15: When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called My s . Christ has seen our plight (as Hosea saw Gomer’s) and His loyal love re us out of the slave market!

The ‘seed’ will have the role as k (Hosea 3:4-5), the one who will come in David’s line, throne, dynasty, kingdom. In the same way Gomer lived without Hosea’s love, so will the Israelites live many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or sacred stones, without ephod or idol (removed in 722 B.C. by Assyria). Afterward, the Israelites will return and seek the LORD their God and David their king. They will come trembling to the LORD and to his blessings in the last days. It is then that the coming of the son of , will take place in the latter days: the days of M . (See Kaiser, pp. 142-144.)

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BUMPS on the ROAD: In what ways has the nation of Israel lived like the immoral Gomer, without appreciating Yahweh’s love? How does this promise encourage the remnant of Israel even in Exile? Based on Romans 9-11, what can we be sure of concerning the nation of Israel in the future? MAPQUEST: Look back over your own life. In what ways has God come after you to draw you to Himself in spite of the ways you chased after other things?

3. Micah – 735-710 B.C. to Southern Kingdom of Judah Read Kaiser, p. 151-154

Micah 2:12-13 gives a ‘bolt out of the blue’, a word of hope that there will be a R in Israel waiting to go out to pasture and someone who ‘ open’ the way out of the pen for his sheep. The Messiah will be a br ! Micah 5:1-4 – the messianic prediction announces a coming R :

- First, in a day when the house of the Lord will be established above the highest mountain. (3:21)

- Second, the t r of David that lost its ancient dominion will recover its former position!

- Third, the predicted Ruler will come from in that future day (5:2). It will signal a ‘new day’ for God’s people. What is significant about this One’s coming?

Micah enumerates the sins of the nations – sins which will ultimately lead to destruction and captivity – but in the middle of the blackness, there is hope. A divine del will appear and righteousness will prevail. Though justice is now trampled underfoot, it will one day triumph. Other important statements in Micah 6:8 preach against false prophets who preached for riches instead of righteousness; against Princes who thrived on cruelty, violence and corruption; and against Priests who ministered more for greed than for God. Micah 7:7 affirms where Micah should look:

“Therefore I; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will me” as does Micah 7:18 where he says: “Who is a God like You, pardoning iniquity and passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in mercy.”

(Major Eighth, Seventh and Sixth Century Prophets will be included in next week’s study.) BUMPS on the ROAD: Which of the descriptions of the promised ‘seed’ from the seventh (post exilic) century strike you as wonderful? For what reason?

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MAPQUEST: How do these descriptions of the Messiah make a difference in your life? In how you view the future and how you live ‘today’? IV Day FOUR: Post Exilic Prophets: What they said about the PROMISED MESSIAH After 70 years in Captivity (Babylon and now Persia), King Cyrus of Persia, stirred by God, permitted the Jewish exiles to return to their own land and rebuild the temple. Three returns were led respectively first by Zerubbabel (from David’s house) and Joshua the high priest (from the tribe of Levi), next by Ezra the Scribe and lastly by Nehemiah. In each of the following three prophetic books mentioned, specific descriptions of the ‘godly seed’/Messiah are given. Each provides us great insight into this amazing Son of David!

1. The Messiah in Haggai – 520 B.C. Read Kaiser, p. 206-210

Haggai preaches to the REMNANT about the primary task of finishing the T of God in Jerusalem! Haggai preaches to the REMNANT about the blessings of God in the future! Yahweh will bring in three immovable and irreplaceable innovations of God that will first ‘break up the nations’ before God establishes…

- An immovable k (Haggai 2:6) - An immovable K (Haggai 2:7-8) - An immovable gl ! (Haggai 2:9)

The Messiah will be as the D of the Nations! (Haggai 2:6-9) the only one who can satisfy the yearnings of all the nations’ need for a Savior.

The Messiah will be God’s S R ! - the ring stands for the God-ordained emblem of the royal office and authority of David’s kingship! (Haggai 2:21-23)

2. The Messiah in Zechariah – 520-518 B.C. – Read Zechariah 3:1-10.

Read Kaiser p. 211-227

Commissioned by Yahweh to encourage the people to finish building the temple. He also rebukes them because the gl of Messiah is at stake. Future blessing is contingent on present obedience!

The Messiah has the work of H P . (Zech. 3:1-7) The Messiah as the K g –Pr st R r over all nations. (Zech. 6:9-15) “This is one of the most remarkable and precious Messianic prophecies, and there is no plainer prophetic utterance in the whole OT as the Person of the promised Redeemer, the offices He was to fill, and the mission He was to accomplish!!!” The Messiah as the K ! (Zech. 9:9-10) – How does Zechariah describe the coming One?

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The Messiah’s Titles are given in (Zech. 10:4) – How would you explain them? - He is the ‘cornerstone’ symbolizing… - He is a ‘tent peg’ (or nail) symbolizing… - He is ‘the battle-bow’, symbolizing… - He is ‘taskmaster’ or Ruler, symbolizing…

The Messiah as the Rejected G She . (Zech. 11:4-14) The Messiah as the P One. (Zech. 12:10) The Messiah as the Smitten Sh of the Lord. (Zech. 13:7)

3. The Messiah in Malachi – 432-425 B.C.

Read Kaiser pp. 227-230 As the final book in the Old Testament, Malachi marks the close of OT prophecy and the beginning of 400 years of silence between the two Testaments. Little was learned from their captivity; Malachi highlights Judah’s hardheartedness, pronouncing God’s curse on all who practice idolatry. It will remain like this until John the Baptist brings a hope filled message:

“BEHOLD! The LAMB of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

The Messiah is the M of the Covenant. (Mal. 3:1) The Messiah is the Sun of R with healing in His wings. (Mal. 4:2) The rising of God’s Sun/Son will signal the appearance of a whole new day for God’s people. They will break out into exuberant joy…..until victory is complete! (Mal. 4:3) BUMPS on the ROAD: Which of the descriptions of the promised ‘seed’ from the fifth (post exilic) Century strikes you as wonderful? For what reason? MAPQUEST: How do these descriptions of the Messiah make a difference in your life? In how you view the future and how you live ‘today’? V Day FIVE: Meditate and Memorization Kaiser concludes his book with the observation that a plethora of promise predictions in the OT is evident. For a moment, take the time to treasure the following Scriptures, recognizing they are the NT recording and fulfillment of the OT promise. Messiah’s Birthplace - Matthew 2:1-6 Messiah’s Forerunner – Matthew 11:10, 14; 17:10-12; Mark 1:2; Luke 1:76; 7:27 Messiah’s Triumphal Entry – Matthew 21:9 Messiah’s Betrayal – Matthew 26:15; 27:9-10 Messiah’s Suffering/ Words on the cross – Matthew 27:43, 46 Messiah’s Second Coming – Matthew 24:30 Praise God: “He ALWAYS keeps His promises!”

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MORE Promises on the Journey Study FIFTEEN: The GOSPEL of the Coming One: Isaiah’s Preview

I Day ONE: Introduction

Read each Isaiahic prediction as noted. You may want to peruse Appendix I and II in Kaiser’s book, pp 237-242. Read also Kaiser, p. 155-185

Isaiah the prophet lived in the 8th Century, one hundred years prior to the Babylonian Captivity of Judah, the Southern Kingdom. His book, named after him, is often called ‘the fifth Evangelist’ along with the four NT Gospels. 47 of the 66 chapters are quoted in the NT and 400 allusions are made from this book! As a handbook for ‘seed’ theology or Messianic Doctrine. Of the 65 predictions of the Messiah carried in the OT, 39 are found in the prophets together and 14 alone in Isaiah. By now, you can see under the leading of God’s Spirit, how the 16 prophets portray a beautiful kaleidoscope of the promised seed who will crush the serpent’s head. II Day TWO: Messiah as KING: Isaiah’s Portrait ONE Read Isaiah 4:2, 7:10-15; 9:1-7; 11:1-16; 24:21-25; 28:16; 30:19-26; 2 Sam. 23:5 Read Kaiser pp. 155-172 The regal theme of the Messiah first appeared to Judah. As this theme has progressively been revealed, it has been presented as a motif of rich treasure. The words the Spirit of God uses to describe the Messiah in Isaiah are marked by majesty and beauty of expression, brilliant word pictures and a wide variety of style and emotion. Most of the book is written in poetic form and presents the Coming One. Notice how Isaiah includes essential characteristics in this portrait from the Davidic Covenant and expands them. How does the Lord Jesus confirm these prophecies?

1. What title does Isaiah give the Messiah? Isaiah 4:2. How is this an answer to David’s prayer in 2 Sam. 23:5?

2. Check the following cross references to see how this metaphor of ‘branch’ is used elsewhere concerning the ‘seed’ or Messiah.

- Seen as the Branch of (Jeremiah 23:5-6) as in Matt. 1:1 - Seen as My Servant, the B (Zechariah 3:8) as in Mark 10:45 - Seen as the man whose name is Branch (Zechariah 6:12) - Seen as The Branch of the L as in John 20:31

3. What is the sign that is given to the unbelieving King Ahaz that promises the Lord’s deliverance to

Israel? (Is. 7:10-15; Lk. 1:34-38)

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4. The Son of David to be born will be a ruler with a g on His shoulder, His name shall be called W C , M God, E F , P of P . (Is. 9:1-7) Comment on the significance of these names for the godly seed.

5. What type of ruler (as a shoot from a stump) will Jesse’s Son be? (Isaiah 11:1-16) Comment briefly

on the different descriptions of the Righteous Branch: His first coming (v. 1-3a) and His second coming into His Kingdom (v. 3b-16) when the Jewish nation is restored.

6. Isaiah chapters 24-27 remind us of how Messiah will shake nations of the earth. How large is Messiah’s triumph according to 24:21-23? (cf Rev. 20)

7. In the ‘book of woes’ section of Isaiah, a figure of speech arises describing the Messiah. It is consistent with the idea of ‘Rock’ and ‘stone.’ What four words does Isaiah use to describe it in Is. 28:16: it is a t stone, a cornerstone, a foundation and those who believe will not be . (ESV translates this ‘in haste’) Both Ps. 118:22-23 and 1 Peter 2:4-9 confirm this is true of Messiah!

8. In keeping with Joel’s words, the Messiah is a (Is. 30:19-26).

BUMPS on the ROAD: Which of Isaiah’s description of God’s Redeemer and Deliverer in this first Portrait comforts you or troubles you? How does God’s plan for David’s Son differ to what man’s plan would, could, might be? MAPQUEST: Scripture never says ‘man gets it right’! In fact, Isaiah himself says in Isaiah 55:8-9 ‘My ways are not your ways nor my thoughts your thoughts…my way and thoughts are higher than yours.’ What is difficult about trusting over to the LORD our thoughts and ways? III Day THREE: Messiah as a SERVANT: Isaiah’s Portrait TWO

Read Kaiser pp. 173-181 From Isaiah 40-53, the Messiah is depicted as ‘the servant of the Lord’ occurring 20 times singular and 11 more times plural. John Bright in Kaiser, p. 173 says:

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‘The figure of the Servant oscillates between the individual and the group…He is the coming Redeemer of the true Israel who in his suffering makes the fulfillment of Israel’s task possible; he is the central actor in the “new thing” that is about to take place! The following four Messianic passages are referred to as the four ‘Servant songs’! Read Isaiah 42:1- 7; 49:1-6; 50:4-9; 52:13-12 (May I suggest you memorize the last Song since it is one of the clearest depictions of the Gospel in Isaiah.)

1. The SERVANT’S MINISTRY – Isaiah 42:1-7 God’s Messiah is the of the Lord (42:1a). What is his relationship with the

Father (42:1b) and what type of person is he (42:2-3)? How will he carry out his ministry? (42:4-7)

2. The SERVANT’S MISSION to the World – Isaiah 49:1-6 How does v. 1-3 describe the Messiah? What is Messiah’s primary task? (v. 4-7, especially v. 5)

3. The SERVANT’S Gethsemane – Isaiah 50:4-7 Though Israel sinned, the Servant of the LORD does not cease to speak God’s Word and do God’s will. Comment on the ways that is revealed in Is. 50:4-7?

4. The SERVANT’S ATONEMENT – Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 The suffering and triumph of the cross is considered the highest point of OT prophetic literature on the suffering, death, burial and resurrection of Messiah. Which of these descriptions do you recognize from the NT passion of Jesus?

BUMPS on the ROAD: Isaiah 53:7-8 are the verses that brought a man to Christ (Acts 8:25-40). In spite of years of ‘bumps’, why is this a passage that can still bring a Jewish or Gentile unbeliever to the Lord? MAPQUEST: What details of description does Isaiah give of God’s view of the cross (53:10) and our need for a Savior (53:4-6 and 11)? Read 53:5 and put your name in where prepositions occur so you can rejoice in this SAVIOR!

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IV Day FOUR: Messiah as ANOINTED CONQUEROR: Isaiah’s Portrait THREE Read Kaiser, pp. 181-185.

As the conquering hero, the MESSIAH opposes and wins over all those who presume to be sovereign but are not! Three benefits result because David’s greater son suffered and thereby provides what God promised in the Davidic (everlasting) Covenant. They move David’s triple promises (dynasty, throne and kingdom) from time into the future:

1. The MESSIAH gives UNFAILING Gifts Promised to David (Is. 55:3-5) What are the unfailing graces (sure mercies) that are promised? - v. 3b

- v. 4a (see John 18:37 and Rev. 1:5)

- v. 4b (see Daniel 9:25; Acts 3:15; Heb. 2:10; Rev. 1:5)

- v. 5

2. The MESSIAH PROCLAIMS Good News (Is. 61:1-3)

Notice the seven things Messiah declares He will preach and do. (See Luke 4:16-21 where Jesus quotes His intentions in Nazareth Isaiah’s words.) How did his townspeople treat Him when He spoke words from Isaiah?

3. The MESSIAH as Conqueror of His Foes (Is. 63:1- 6) The judgment of God against His enemies is pictured here in bold strokes. Why are the Messiah’s clothes stained crimson? (v. 1–3) Notice that Kaiser suggests we look at Rev. 19:11-21 to understand v. 4-6 as the day of vengeance against the nations. BUMPS on the ROAD: Repeatedly, in spite of the nation’s disobedience we see God keeping His Covenant. Regardless of what people do – to the point of killing the Son of David – God does not stop His work of keeping His promises about the seed He will send to bring deliverance. What from Jesus’ life in time past convinces you that He will be faithful to defeat His foes in the future? MAPQUEST: Remember Ps. 2 where the nations were said to be raging? How do Isaiah’s and John’s answers teach us the nations never heeded the Psalmist’s warning? Why is God’s wrath a ‘just wrath’ (Is. 63:1b) so we can rest in His plan?

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V Day FIVE: Meditation and Memorization There are many favorite passages believers hold close to their hearts from Isaiah. Share one that you have come to love and treasure. Here is one that at some time in your life, the Holy Spirit will bring to mind for your encouragement and support.

“Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel,

‘My way is hidden from the LORD, and my right is disregarded by my God’? Have you not known? Have you not heard?

The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.

He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted;

but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles;

they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Isaiah 40:27-31