Philip: The Man WHo Loved to Tell People About Jesus - Acts 6, 8 and 21 - May 31, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Philip: The Man Who Loved to Tell People About Jesus – May 31, 2009

This is the final study in our series entitled “Profiles in Character.”

Our scripture is Acts 6:1-7; 8:4-8, 26-31, 34-35; 21: 8-9.

The Philip we are studying is not to be confused with Philip the apostle. The Philip in our study was one of seven men chosen to distribute food to the widows of both the Jewish Christians, who lived in the Jerusalem area and spoke Hebrew or “Hebraic Jews” and the Grecian speaking Jewish Christians who grew up and lived outside the Jerusalem area and spoke Greek. The Greek speaking Christians were called “Grecian Jews” or “Hellenistic Jews” and felt discriminated against. The apostles were trying to minister to the needs of both groups and found that it was taking much of their time to distribute food, which was needed to preach the gospel. Our first scripture begins with the solution to this problem and Philip was part of the solution.

Let’s read Acts 6: 1-7:

1 In those days, as the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint by the Hellenistic Jews[1] Jews of Gk language and culture against the Hebraic Jews[2] Jews of Aram or Hb language and culture that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution. 2 Then the Twelve summoned the whole company of the disciples and said, “It would not be right for us to give up preaching about God to wait on tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we can appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the preaching ministry.” 5 The proposal pleased the whole company. So they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a • proselyte from Antioch. 6 They had them stand before the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.[3] The laying on of hands signified the prayer of blessing for the beginning of a new ministry. 7 So the preaching about God flourished, the number of the disciples in Jerusalem multiplied greatly, and a large group of priests became obedient to the faith.

The Christian faith was growing by leaps and bounds. The Christians were being persecuted because of their faith in JESUS. Christians had to look out for one another which resulted in unity. One of the ministry projects of the early church was to care for the widows. In that time and society widows were often neglected and they were helpless to care for themselves. As with many well meaning ministries at times, problems arise. This was no exception. The Greek speaking Jewish Christian widows believed they were being discriminated against when it came to the distribution of food compared to the native born Hebrew speaking Jewish Christian widows. This problem threatened the unity of the Christian group. The Apostles had taken over the distribution of the food but it was taking them away from preaching the gospel. The solution was to select fellow Christians who both groups had confidence in to take over these duties. Thus our first deacons were created. The Apostles called the entire group together. This was the first congregational meeting to present the problem and the solution.

The Apostles had certain requirements those chosen should have, such as men of honest report (ethical), full of the HOLY SPIRIT and full of wisdom. The congregation liked the idea of selecting a trustworthy group to focus on the widows care ministry and they selected seven (7) men. It is interesting that the names of the seven (7) men selected were Greek names. Even though they may have been Greek speaking, the congregation had confidence that they would not discriminate against either group. It could have been that they let the Greek speaking select the Seven.

Philip was selected to serve. This shows the confidence the congregation had in him and reveals his character. He not only served, he also preached the gospel which we learn as we continue our study.

Just as a side note, we spoke of Stephen in last week’s study. We see that Stephen was also selected as one (1) of the Seven. Stephen was also the first Christian martyr.
The Apostles laid hands on those chosen and commissioned them for service.
As a result of freeing up of the Apostles to preach the gospel, those becoming Christians continued to flourish and even priests were becoming believers. When we read this scripture, it makes me wonder what happened to our Jewish brothers along the way over the years. I know there are Messianic Jews today who believe in CHRIST as the Messiah but you would think the Jews would be the predominate group of people to be Christians.

We will also see from the scripture that Philip not only served in this ministry but he was also called by the LORD to be an evangelist. He was a faithful, obedient servant.

Let’s read Acts 8: 4-8:

Philip in Samaria
4 So those who were scattered went on their way proclaiming the message of good news. 5 Philip went down to a[1] Other mss read the city in Samaria and preached the • Messiah to them. 6 The crowds paid attention with one mind to what Philip said, as they heard and saw the signs he was performing. 7 For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed, and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city.

When Stephen was martyred, persecution broke out against the Christians. This resulted in the Christians scattering to other areas of the country. GOD uses all things for good and as a result of this scattering the Good News was spread to other areas. Philip went to Samaria and preached the message of CHRIST. Jews hated the Samaritans but Philip did not let that bother him. He went to Samaria to present the Good News. Philip attracted large crowds of people. The Samaritans were also looking for the coming of the Messiah. The Samaritans saw the power of GOD at work through signs of healing, unclean spirits being cast out, the lame and paralyzed being healed.
As a result, there was great joy because many were converted to CHRIST. There is always great joy when we surrender our lives to CHRIST, even the angels in heaven rejoice. The following scripture captured the conversion of Simon the sorcerer.

Acts 8:9-13:
9 A man named Simon had previously practiced sorcery in that city and astounded the • Samaritan people, while claiming to be somebody great. 10 They all paid attention to him, from the least of them to the greatest, and they said, “This man is called the Great Power of God!”[2] Or This is the power of God called Great 11 They were attentive to him because he had astounded them with his sorceries for a long time. 12 But when they believed Philip, as he proclaimed the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized. 13 Then even Simon himself believed. And after he was baptized, he went around constantly with[3] Or he kept close company with Philip and was astounded as he observed the signs and great miracles that were being performed.

Philip went to the despised Samaritans to preach the gospel. This revealed more of his character. Philip was not a prejudiced person. He had the Good News and wanted to present it where ever GOD wanted him to preach. We continue to see the willingness of Philip to be led by the HOLY SPIRIT in our next scripture.

Let’s read Acts 8:26-40:

The Conversion of the Ethiopian Official
26 An angel of the Lord spoke to Philip: “Get up and go south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to desert Gaza.”[8] Perhaps old Gaza or the road near the desert 27 So he got up and went. There was an Ethiopian man, a eunuch and high official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of her entire treasury. He had come to worship in Jerusalem 28 and was sitting in his chariot on his way home, reading the prophet Isaiah aloud. 29 The Spirit told Philip, “Go and join that chariot.” 30 When Philip ran up to it, he heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you’re reading?” 31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone guides me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 Now the Scripture passage he was reading was this: He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb is silent before its shearer, so He does not open His mouth. 33 In His humiliation justice was denied Him. Who will describe His generation? For His life is taken from the earth.[9] Isaiah 53:7–8 34 The eunuch replied to Philip, “I ask you, who is the prophet saying this about—himself or another person?” 35 So Philip proceeded[10] Lit Philip opened his mouth to tell him the good news about Jesus, beginning from that Scripture. 36 As they were traveling down the road, they came to some water. The eunuch said, “Look, there’s water! What would keep me from being baptized?” [ 37 And Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart you may.” And he replied, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”][11] Other mss omit bracketed text 38 Then he ordered the chariot to stop, and both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him any longer. But he went on his way rejoicing. 40 Philip appeared in[12] Or Philip was found at, or Philip found himself in Azotus,[13] Or Ashdod and passing through, he was evangelizing all the towns until he came to Caesarea.

Philip left Samaria to return to Jerusalem. As he traveled back to Jerusalem, he preached in the Samaritan villages along the way. This also reveals the heart of Philip. He wanted to use his time wisely and share the Good News along the way. GOD knew his heart and his willingness to be obedient to HIS call. Many of us might think GOD has never used me in this way. Would you go if GOD called you to go to a desolate area or would you rationalize, “Why would GOD lead me to go to such a place? It must not be GOD I am hearing.”

The LORD brings to my mind an experience I had years ago. I was driving out of town to attend a meeting which the distance would mean an overnight stay somewhere along the way. I was listening to the radio and a preacher was preaching on “Ask and you will receive.” I took issue with what the preacher was saying and began talking to the LORD like, “I have asked and not received. If you listen to this preacher you would think that Christians can just ask whatever and receive it.” When my lecture to the LORD finished, the still small voice of the LORD said, “When you ask according to MY will it will be done.” So I said, “Okay LORD I have to spend the night somewhere on the road tonight. Where do YOU want me to stop? I want to do YOUR will. Whatever YOU ask me to do, I will.” I went to the meeting and when I left the meeting I said LORD, “Where do YOU want me to spend the night? I was in Raleigh, NC and had the choices of staying in Raleigh, Greensboro or driving back to Spartanburg, SC. The LORD clearly said Greensboro. So I drive toward Greensboro. As I get close to Greensboro, the billboards reminded me that the NCAA Tournament was going on. I again asked the LORD where I should stay because rooms would be scarce. HE led me to a certain motel and I asked for a room. The desk clerk looked at me and asked, “Where did you come from. Didn’t I know there was no room within fifty (50) miles of Greensboro?” I uttered a prayer and the LORD said in essence, don’t worry you will have a room. The desk clerk said if you are willing to wait I have one room and if the person does not show, I could have that room. I waited and asked the LORD what HE wanted me to do. I suggested tickets to the NCAA tournament would be nice but HE said I want you to go to church. I asked what church? It was on a Wednesday. I was led to go to the Yellow Pages of the telephone book.

I went over to the telephone directory and looked through the Yellow Pages. I picked out a church or two but the LORD said “no”. I went across one church and HE said that was it. I went on to others but HE kept leading me back to this one church. I said okay. As I write this I do not recall the name of the church but it was a “street name” Baptist church. I got the room and asked the desk clerk where this church was located. He did not know but pointed me in a general direction.

I drove toward that direction and praying because it is getting late for a church service. I asked the LORD to help me find the church. HE said, “Look up.” I saw three (3) church steeples and HE said, “Do you see the middle steeple? I said, “Yes.” HE said drive to it. Guess what? That was the church. I said, “LORD I need another thing, which door should I go into?” HE led me to a certain door of the church and as I was walking toward that door, I said, “It would be nice if there was someone who could show me where the Wednesday night service was being held.” I opened the door and a man was leaning on a table at the far end of a long hall. I went up to him and asked him where the Wednesday night service was being held. He said, “I did not know.” My heart sank for a moment but he quickly said, “But this lady will know because this is the pastor’s wife.” She said, “Come with me.” We sat on the same pew. The pastor’s wife had told me that her husband was out of town and he had asked a deacon to lead the service. I said, “LORD here I am, what do YOU want me to do?” HE said, “I want you to give your testimony.”

I went into panic mode. The deacon had gotten up to speak. He told us that the pastor had asked him to conduct the service. He had his Bible and it had numerous slips of paper marking certain passages of scripture. I said, “LORD, it would be rude for me to jump up and take up this man’s time for me to give my testimony. He had prepared his message but if YOU work it out I will do it.” The deacon said, “I have been working on a message for you for a long time as you can see with all these slips of paper but frankly I have nothing to say.” My heart went into panic mode again. He said, “If anyone has anything to say, please say it.” Now, you would think that was an open invitation but I asked the LORD, “I am willing to share my testimony but I want to be asked.” Guess what? HE said, “Done” and the pastor’s wife, who was sitting about six (6) or so feet from me leaned over and touched my arm and said, “Sir, don’t you have something to say.” With that I sprang to my feet and told them what I had just related to you. I gave my testimony. There were no visible signs of the LORD working. I know the LORD showed me, when a believer asks according to HIS will, it will be done. The LORD is still calling believers to do HIS will every day.

When GOD called Philip he got up and went to the desert. He did not question the call. This was also part of his character. He responded when prompted.

Philip encounters an Ethiopian man riding in a chariot reading scripture. When GOD calls, HE also sets up the entry point for the conversation. That is key when witnessing. Let GOD lead you to witness. When HE does, HE prepares the opportunity and the heart.

It was stated that the Ethiopian man was a eunuch. He could have been a eunuch, as we know eunuchs, or he could have been called a “eunuch” or a title. Eunuch was the title for Treasurer, likely because eunuchs typically held that office. If this man was a eunuch he would have been restricted from certain areas of the temple.

He likely came from a Jewish family because many Jews had settled in that area of Africa. In fact that area became the cradle of Christianity. We get to see GOD’S hand at work to establish Christianity in Africa.

The perfect opening to witness is a person reading scripture and having questions. When Philip encountered the Ethiopian man reading scripture, out loud, it confirmed why GOD called him to go to the desert. Philip asked him, if he knew what he was reading? Philip knew the scripture he was reading and used that to reveal truth to him. This is why it is important for believers to study the scripture. But believers need to also keep in mind that GOD knows what they know and he uses them according. Believers should not refrain from witnessing when the opportunity arises because GOD uses HIS children in the capacity of their obedience and HIS provision.

The Ethiopian wanted to know who the scripture was referring to. Philip said JESUS. The Ethiopian believed and was baptized. Then the Spirit of the LORD led Philip away. It implies that Philip like was transported or vanished and ended up in Azotus. It could have been that Philip was so overjoyed with GOD using him in such a mighty way, that the trip from the desert to where he was being led next was a blur. Have you ever been so happy and full of joy that time seemed to stand still? This could have been what Philip experienced but I do not rule out the power of the LORD to zap him to Azotus.

Let’s read Acts 21: 8-9:

8 The next day we (Paul and Luke) left and came to Caesarea, where we entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the Seven,[1] Ac 6:1–7 and stayed with him. 9 This man had four virgin daughters who prophesied.

We fast forward about twenty (20) years. Paul and Luke swung down to Caesarea to visit with Philip. Remember Paul was the young soldier that guarded the clothes of those who stoned his brother in CHRIST, Stephen. Luke referred to Philip as an evangelist. Luke does not call anyone else in the Book of Acts an evangelist. Luke ties him to the Seven who were chosen to distribute food. Philip and his wife had four (4) virgin daughters who prophesied. Philip’s daughters could have been marrying age but had chosen not to marry or they could have been young. We see that Philip remained faithful in serving our LORD from his early years to his older years. We learn that he had shared the gospel to his family and taught them. They all served the LORD. It is so important to share the gospel with our loved ones.

Are we willing to share the Good News with others as the LORD leads us? It is a great joy when the LORD leads us to share and the person to whom we are sharing the gospel is ready to receive the message of salvation. If you were minding your own business and the LORD called you to go to a certain place, would you do it? Philip did and what a blessing. HE still does today and what a blessing when HE does. Just yield yourself to building the relationship with HIM and HE will call you to serve HIM in any way HE chooses. It is exciting!!!

Baranbas: The Man Who Encouraged Others - Acts 4, 9, 11 and 13 - May 24, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Barnabas: The Man Who Encouraged Others – May 24, 2009

This is lesson four in our series of study entitled “Profiles in Character.”

Our scripture is Acts 4:36-37; 9:26-28; 11:19-26; 13: 14-15, 42-43.

All of us need to be encouraged from time to time.

Our study focuses on taking a chance on others. Barnabas was an encourager. Do we encourage others? Do others encourage us? Encouragement can come in many different forms.

Let’s read Acts 4: 36-37:

36 Joseph, a Levite and a Cypriot by birth, whom the apostles named Barnabas, which is translated Son of Encouragement, 37 sold a field he owned, brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

It is interesting that Barnabas was a nickname given to Joseph, a Levite who had been born in Cyprus. Joseph was a Jew of the Diaspora. This means that his ancestors had been dispersed from Jerusalem during the time period between the Old Testament and the New Testament. This dispersion is known as the Diaspora. Joseph/Barnabas moved back to Jerusalem and was converted to CHRIST.

We also learn from Colossians 4:10 that Barnabas was John Mark’s cousin -
10 Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, greets you, as does Mark, Barnabas’ cousin (concerning whom you have received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him).


We also can conclude that Barnabas was not married based upon 1 Corinthians 9:5-6 - 5 Don’t we have the right to be accompanied by a Christian wife, like the other apostles, the Lord’s brothers, and • Cephas? 6 Or is it only Barnabas and I (Paul) who have no right to refrain from working? We conclude by the absence of Barnabas from the list of those married, he was not married.

Joseph/Barnabas earned the nickname “Barnabas” from the apostles, which means “Son of Encouragement.”

We can encourage others with words, resources or action. We see in our scripture that Barnabas sold a piece of property and gave the money to the apostles to use as needed. He had already earned the name Barnabas but this was an example of how he had likely earned his nickname. Meeting the needs of others or an organization through monetary or sweat equity is an encouragement.

Let’s read Acts 9:26-28:

26 When he (Saul/Paul) arrived in Jerusalem,[5] Gl 1:18 he tried to associate with the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, since they did not believe he was a disciple. 27 Barnabas, however, took him and brought him to the apostles and explained to them how, on the road, Saul[6] Lit he had seen the Lord, and that He had talked to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus. 28 Saul[7] Lit he was coming and going with them in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.

Saul of Tarsus was on his way to do harm to Christians in Damascus when he encountered JESUS. Saul later called Paul preached the gospel of CHRIST in Damascus. When he came to Jerusalem, the Christians in Jerusalem were afraid of him because of his past with the Sanhedrin. The Sanhedrin was located in Jerusalem. They thought he may have been trying to spy on them and later do them harm. Paul had a past that followed him for the first few years after his conversion to CHRIST.

Many of us have baggage that carry over from our lives before CHRIST. We need Barnabas type people who are willing to take us into their care and mentor us. Having someone we can trust is of great value as we journey with our LORD.

Barnabas took the Apostle Paul under his wing and introduced him to the other Apostles. This gave Paul the opportunity to prove himself and we know the rest of the story. WOW and what a story!!!

There is always a risk when reaching out to others. When we do reach out to others who have a checkered past, we do not have to check our brains at the door. As a friend of mine told me, when we were discussing Christians with a past history of abusing children, he told me, “You can pray together but keep one eye open when you pray.”

Let’s read Acts 11:19-26:

19 Those who had been scattered as a result of the persecution that started because of Stephen made their way as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, Cypriot and Cyrenian men, who came to Antioch and began speaking to the Hellenists,[6] Other mss read Greeks [7] In this context, a non-Jewish person who spoke Gk proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a large number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 Then the report about them reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to travel[8] Other mss omit to travel as far as Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he encouraged all of them to remain true to the Lord with a firm resolve of the heart— 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith—and large numbers of people were added to the Lord. 25 Then he[9] Other mss read Barnabas went to Tarsus to search for Saul, 26 and when he found him he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught large numbers, and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

In this scripture Doctor Luke takes us back to the time before Paul’s conversion to CHRIST. Paul/Saul was carrying out the orders of the Sanhedrin to thwart a movement of people following JESUS known as the “Way”. We learn later that Christians were first called Christians at Antioch. Stephen was the first Christian martyr. Young Saul/Paul guarded the garments of those who stoned Stephen.

Acts 7:58-60:

58 They threw him (Stephen) out of the city and began to stone him. And the witnesses laid their robes at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59 They were stoning Stephen as he called out: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!” 60 Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin!” And saying this, he fell • asleep.[24] He died; see Jn 11:11; 1 Co 11:30; 1 Th 4:13–15

In Acts 22:20, Paul is giving his testimony and confirmed that he had guarded the garments of those who stoned Stephen:

20 And when the blood of Your witness Stephen was being shed, I myself was standing by and approving,[4] Other mss add of his murder and I guarded the clothes of those who killed him.’

As a result of the stoning of Stephen, the followers of JESUS were scattered to other areas. In fact, this was a good thing. The gospel was spread to other countries. The followers of CHRIST spread the message of salvation through CHRIST to fellow Jews in those areas.

Antioch was in Syria and it was the third largest city in the Roman Empire. Antioch was not a sea coast city but it was located on the Orontes River, which connected to the Mediterranean Sea. It was about 16.5 miles from the Sea. It was a cosmopolitan city with many ethnic groups living there.

It is estimated that some eight (8) to nine (9) years had passed since the stoning of Stephen. Some believers came from Cyprus and Cyrene to Antioch. They preached the gospel of CHRIST to the Jews. Some of the converts presented the message of CHRIST to the Hellenists or non-Jews who spoke Greek. They were receptive to the gospel and the gospel spread like a wild fire. This news came back to Jerusalem and the Christian leaders in Jerusalem sent Barnabas to check it out.

Sometime before Barnabas left to go to Antioch, some Hellenists Jews attempted to kill Saul/Paul. When fellow believers discovered this attempt they sent Saul/Paul off to his home town of Tarsus. So Barnabas was aware of this. This will play a role later in our study.

Acts 9:28-30: (Saul/Paul was sent home to protect him.)

28 Saul[7] Lit he was coming and going with them in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 He conversed and debated with the Hellenistic Jews,[8] Lit Hellenists; that is, Gk-speaking Jews but they attempted to kill him. 30 When the brothers found out, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

Barnabas went to Antioch and saw the hand of the LORD at work. He saw grace. How do you see grace? In a changed life. He saw GOD changing the hearts of men and most likely women. We are all sinners saved by grace. We all deserve to die for our sins but through the grace of GOD, HE saves all who believe that HIS ONLY SON JESUS died for our sins and was resurrected from the dead.

Verses 23-24 give us a good overview of the character of Barnabas. When he saw the working of the LORD in the hearts of men, he was glad. He encouraged them all to remain true to the LORD. He was a good man and he was full of the HOLY SPIRIT and firm in his faith in CHRIST. As a result of Barnabas being genuine, large numbers were added to the faith. He practiced what he preached.

Another revelation of the character of Barnabas was in the fact that when he saw that things were going so well, he realized he needed help. He did not want to try to build a following for himself. But he knew a fellow believer who could minister in this place along with him. So he went to Tarsus to find Saul/Paul.

The hand of the LORD is awesome. Saul/Paul was sent to Tarsus for his protection. He was likely in Tarsus about two (2) years before Barnabas came looking for him. Tarsus was about 123 miles by land from Antioch. Tarsus was on the Cydnus River about 10 miles inland from the Mediterranean Sea. There seemed to be a trade route from Antioch through Tarsus but there could also been a ship that could have carried Barnabas to Tarsus. Either way Barnabas went to Tarsus to find Saul/Paul.

He found Saul/Paul and brought him back to Antioch and they ministered together for a year. We learn that it was in Antioch that believers were first called Christians.
If you do further study, look at the word order that Doctor Luke used when referring to Barnabas and Saul. There is a shift in leadership. In the beginning Luke refers to Barnabas/Saul. After Saul has proved himself and become more involved in the ministry, Luke used Paul/Barnabas. This also reveals the character of Barnabas. He was not out to pin a rose on himself, he wanted to do the will of the LORD. Barnabas wanted to get the job done of reaching others for CHRIST.

Let’s read Acts 13:14-15, 42-43:

14 They continued their journey from Perga and reached Antioch in Pisidia. On the Sabbath day they went into the synagogue and sat down. 15 After the reading of the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent [word]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have any message of encouragement for the people, you can speak.”

42 As they[16] Paul and Barnabas were leaving, they[17] Other mss read they were leaving the synagogue of the Jews, the Gentiles [18] The people begged that these matters be presented to them the following Sabbath. 43 After the synagogue had been dismissed, many of the Jews and devout • proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas, who were speaking with them and persuading them to continue in the grace of God.

“They” refers to Paul and Barnabas. Paul and Barnabas were commissioned by the church in Antioch in Syria to go on a missionary journey. One of the cities they visited was Antioch in Pisidia. They traveled from Perga to Antioch in Pisidia which was a distance of about 100 miles. It is estimated that they could travel on foot about 15 miles per day, so it took about a week.

Their method of operation was to visit a synagogue on the Sabbath. The usual custom was to ask those visiting to comment on the scripture which had been read.

They were asked if they had a word of encouragement. That was like saying “sic’em” to a dog. Paul got up and preached. His message is recorded in Acts 13:16-41.
Those present, Jews and Gentiles, followed Paul and Barnabas out of the synagogue and begged them to come back on the next Sabbath.

They did and Acts 13:44-49 revealed the results:

44 The following Sabbath almost the whole town assembled to hear the message of the Lord.[19] Other mss read of God 45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to oppose what Paul was saying by insulting him. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas boldly said: “It was necessary that God’s message be spoken to you first. But since you reject it, and consider yourselves unworthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles! 47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: I have appointed you as a light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends[20] Lit the end of the earth.”[21] Isaiah 49:6 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and glorified the message of the Lord, and all who had been appointed to eternal life believed. 49 So the message of the Lord spread through the whole region.

Many received salvation because Barnabas took a chance and introduced Paul to the Apostles. This helped launch Paul’s spiritual journey. Paul earned the respect of the Apostles. Barnabas was the great encourager not only for Paul but as a way of life. Do we encourage others?

Abigail: Living with a Difficult Husband - 1 Samuel 25 - May 17, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Abigail: Living with a Difficult Husband – May 17, 2009

This is lesson three (3) in the series entitled “Profiles in Character.”

Our scripture is 1 Samuel 25:1-44.

Living with a difficult spouse is an awful situation to be in. There are some spouses that have mental problems and create problems for their spouses, others are just plain mean. Today, we are studying an intelligent, beautiful lady named Abigail (Her name means father of joy or cause of joy) who is married to Nabal (His name means fool).

So we have this situation. A sweet, intelligent, wise, beautiful lady married to a crass, loudmouth, brute. Nabal likely came from a wealthy family who was obstinate and impossible to deal with but he had wealth. We do not know why Abigail married him. It was likely prearranged by her family since that was the custom of that period.

David was fleeing King Saul, who wanted to kill him and was with his men in the Wilderness of Paran (PAY ruhn). David had about 600 men with him in this northeast area of the Sinai Peninsula.

We studied Hannah, Samuel’s mother, last week. Samuel was the last judge to rule Israel. The Israelites wanted a king and Samuel anointed Saul as the first king of Israel. Later GOD rejected Saul as king because he got impatient and took on the duties of the priest. GOD directed Samuel to anoint David as king to succeed Saul. At this point in our scripture, Saul was still king and he was trying to kill David. Samuel died before David became king. Our scripture picks up when Samuel died.

Let’s read 1 Samuel 25:1-17:

1 Samuel died, and all Israel assembled to mourn for him, and they buried him by his home in Ramah. David then went down to the Wilderness of Paran.[1] LXX mss read to Maon 2 A man in Maon (MAY ahn) had a business in Carmel; he was a very rich man with 3,000 sheep and 1,000 goats and was shearing his sheep in Carmel. 3 The man’s name was Nabal, and his wife’s name, Abigail. The woman was intelligent and beautiful, but the man, a Calebite, was harsh and evil in [his]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. dealings. 4 While David was in the wilderness, he heard that Nabal was shearing sheep, 5 so David sent 10 young men instructing them, “Go up to Carmel, and when you come to Nabal, greet him in my name.[2] Or Nabal, and ask him for peace 6 Then say this: ‘Long life to you,[3] Lit To life and peace to you, to your family, and to all that is yours. 7 I hear that you are shearing.[4] Lit you have shearers When your shepherds were with us, we did not harass them, and nothing of theirs was missing the whole time they were in Carmel.[5] 1 Sm 23:24–25; 25:15–16 8 Ask your young men, and they will tell you. So let [my]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. young men find favor with you, for we have come on a feast[6] Lit good day. Please give whatever you can afford to your servants and to your son David.’ ” 9 David’s young men went and said all these things to Nabal on David’s behalf,[7] Lit name and they waited.[8] LXX reads and he became arrogant 10 Nabal asked them, “Who is David? Who is Jesse’s son? Many slaves these days are running away from their masters. 11 Am I supposed to take my bread, my water, and my meat that I butchered for my shearers and give them to men who are from I don’t know where?” 12 David’s men retraced their steps. When they returned to him, they reported all these words. 13 He said to his men, “All of you, put on your swords!” So David and all his men put on their swords. About 400 men followed David while 200 stayed with the supplies.[9] 1 Sm 23:13; 30:9–10 14 One of Nabal’s young men informed Abigail, Nabal’s wife: “Look, David sent messengers from the wilderness to greet our master, but he yelled at them. 15 The men treated us well. When we were in the field, we weren’t harassed and nothing of ours was missing the whole time we were living among them. 16 They were a wall around us, both day and night, the entire time we were herding the sheep. 17 Now consider carefully what you must do, because there is certain to be trouble for our master and his entire family. He is such a worthless fool nobody can talk to him!”

Nabal’s shepherds had been in the wilderness grazing his sheep before the shearing season. David had about 600 men with him and they guarded Nabal’s shepherds and sheep until the sheep were ready for shearing. As a result of David’s men guarding the sheep, Nabal did not lose a single sheep. This meant he had more sheep to shear.
Sheep shearing was a festive occasion. It was a time that the owner of the sheep would invite his neighbors, friends and even his enemies to participate in the shearing of his sheep, which was celebrated with food and drink. It was party time. David, being a shepherd boy, was very much aware of this practice.

He sent ten (10) of his men to Nabal with a request for Nabal to share his food and drink with them since they had guarded his sheep. David instructed his men to tell Nabal to check with his men and verify the fact that they had not only guarded the sheep but they did not lose a single sheep. In essence, David was reminding Nabal that they could have taken some of his sheep when they were guarding them for food but they had not. Now, that it was shearing season and he was reaping the benefits of not losing any of his sheep, could he make food and drink available them? It was not like they were freeloading because they had guarded his men and his sheep. They requested whatever Nabal could share with them.

Nabal yelled and insulted David and his men. It is not clear whether or not Nabal knew about David but Nabal asked the question, “Who is David?” and “Who is Jesse’s son (Jesse was David’s father)?” I personally think Nabal had heard of David slaying Goliath. Nabal’s refusal to aid David might have been his way of trying to be the big man in the neighborhood and show he did not have to accommodate the man who killed Goliath.

David’s men returned to David with Nabal’s message. David became furious and told about 400 of his 600 men to grab their swords and saddle up, because they were off to fight Nabal and his family.

Meanwhile back at the ranch, one of Nabal’s men was wise enough to know what was about to happen. He may have tried to reason with Nabal but he knew that his master was a fool and no one could reason with him. He went to the brains of the family, Abigail and explained the role that David and his men played in guarding Nabal’s sheep. If Nabal needed to share food and drink with anyone it was David and his men.
Let’s read 1 Samuel 18-31:

18 Abigail hurried, taking 200 loaves of bread, two skins of wine, five butchered sheep, a bushel[10] Lit sheep, five seahs of roasted grain, 100 clusters of raisins, and 200 cakes of pressed figs, and loaded them on donkeys. 19 Then she said to her male servants, “Go ahead of me. I will be right behind you.” But she did not tell her husband Nabal. 20 As she rode the donkey down a mountain pass hidden from view, she saw David and his men coming toward her and met them. 21 David had just said, “I guarded everything that belonged to this man in the wilderness for nothing. He was not missing anything, yet he paid me back evil for good. 22 May God punish me,[11] LXX; MT reads my enemies and even more if I let any of his men[12] Lit of those of his who are urinating against the wall [survive]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. until morning.” 23 When Abigail saw David, she quickly got off the donkey and fell with her face to the ground in front of David. 24 She fell at his feet and said, “The guilt is mine, my lord, but please let your servant speak to you directly. Listen to the words of your servant. 25 My lord should pay no attention to this worthless man Nabal, for he lives up to his name:[13] Lit for as is his name is, so he is His name is Nabal,[14] = Fool and stupidity is all he knows.[15] Lit and foolishness is with him I, your servant, didn’t see my lord’s young men whom you sent. 26 Now my lord, as surely as the Lord lives and as you yourself live, it is the Lord who kept you from participating in bloodshed and avenging yourself by your own hand. May your enemies and those who want trouble for my lord be like Nabal. 27 Accept this gift your servant has brought to my lord, and let it be given to the young men who follow my lord. 28 Please forgive your servant’s offense, for the Lord is certain to make a lasting dynasty for my lord[16] 1 Sm 2:35 because he fights the Lord’s battles. Throughout your life, may evil[17] Or trouble not be found in you. 29 “When someone pursues you and attempts to take your life, my lord’s life will be tucked safely in the place[18] Lit bundle where the Lord your God protects the living. However, He will fling away your enemies’ lives like [stones]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. from a sling. 30 When the Lord does for my lord all the good He promised and appoints you ruler over Israel, 31 there will not be remorse or a troubled conscience for my lord because of needless bloodshed or my lord’s revenge. And when the Lord does good things for my lord, may you remember [me]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. your servant.”

Abigail was a quick study. She knew men and what reaction David would likely have. David’s retaliation could impact her, as well as, Nabal. She put it in high gear and began gathering food and drink sufficient to feed David and his men. She sent the provisions ahead of her. This was a good tactic. She knew David would be steaming mad and she wanted to show good will and cool him down before she encountered him. After all she knew how to deal with difficult men because she was married to one.

Abigail climbed on her donkey and off she goes to head David off at the pass. She spotted David and they come face to face. She immediately dismounts and knelt down at David’s feet. She asked David to consider what happened between Nabal and his men to be her fault.

Abigail goes into the longest speech of any woman in the Bible. She laid it out that her husband, Nabal, lived up to his name a “fool” and “stupid.” She stated to David that she was not aware that David had sent his men to Nabal but once she got the word about the situation, she took matters into her own hands.

She acknowledged the hand of GOD in this situation and in David’s life. She seemed
to be aware of David’s past when in verse 29 she says, “He (GOD) will fling away your enemies’ lives like [stones]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. from a sling.” Was this her way of letting him know she knew who he was and that GOD was directing his life? And she knew his future when she asked him to remember her when the LORD appoints him ruler over Israel. This is why I think Nabal knew who David was.

Let’s read 1 Samuel 25: 32-44:

32 Then David said to Abigail, “Praise to the Lord God of Israel, who sent you to meet me today! 33 Blessed is your discernment, and blessed are you. Today you kept me from participating in bloodshed and avenging myself by my own hand. 34 Otherwise, as surely as the Lord God of Israel lives, who prevented me from harming you, if you had not come quickly to meet me, Nabal wouldn’t have had any men[19] Lit had anyone urinating against a wall left by morning light.” 35 Then David accepted what she had brought him and said, “Go home in peace. See, I have heard what you said and have granted your request.” 36 Then Abigail went to Nabal, and there he was in his house, feasting like a king. Nabal was in a good mood[20] Lit Nabal‘s heart was good on him and very drunk, so she didn’t say anything[21] Lit anything small or great to him until morning light. 37 In the morning when Nabal sobered up,[22] Lit when the wine had gone out of Nabal his wife told him about these events. Then he had a seizure[23] Lit Then his heart died within him and became paralyzed.[24] Lit became a stone 38 About 10 days later, the Lord struck Nabal dead. 39 When David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, “Praise the Lord who championed my cause against Nabal’s insults and restrained His servant from doing evil. The Lord brought Nabal’s evil deeds back on his own head.” Then David sent messengers to speak to Abigail about marrying him. 40 When David’s servants came to Abigail at Carmel, they said to her, “David sent us to bring you to him as a wife.” 41 She bowed her face to the ground and said, “Here I am, your servant, to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” 42 Then Abigail got up quickly, and with her five female servants accompanying her, rode on the donkey following David’s messengers. And so she became his wife. 43 David also married Ahinoam of Jezreel, and the two of them became his wives. 44 But Saul gave his daughter Michal, David’s wife, to Palti[25] 1 Sm 18:27; 2 Sm 3:14–15 son of Laish, who was from Gallim.

Abigail’s reference to the LORD immediately changed David’s heart from a heart seeking revenge, to a heart seeing the hand of the LORD at work in his life through Abigail. Often, when we encounter a volatile situation the mention of the LORD’S name changes a bad situation into one where reason has a better chance of prevailing. The mere reference to GOD not only changed David’s mind but it also revealed the heart of Abigail toward GOD. Mission accomplished.

I admire Abigail. When she returned home, she saw that Nabal was in a good mood and very drunk. This might have been a good time to tell him what she had done. It would have gotten it off her mind but he would not likely remember what she had told him the next day. But this gutsy lady waited until early the next morning, when he was sober. Had she been praying for the right time to tell this vile man what she had done? Did GOD lead her to wait? We do not know. When he was sober, she told Nabal what she had done and Nabal lost it. We know from our study that he yelled. He was a very volatile man. When he heard what Abigail said he likely went into a rage, so violent, that he had a stroke. He died ten (10) days later.

Now this intelligent, beautiful widow lady is free to marry and David does not let any grass grow under his feet. He sent his servants to Abigail with a message that He wanted to marry her! Talk about love at first sight. It must have been love at first sight for both David and Abigail. She agreed and traveled with five (5) of her servants to meet David. Later in the scripture (2 Samuel 3:3) we learn that Abigail and David have a son and named him Chileab.

From our study we can see the character of a Godly woman who was married to an ungodly, evil man. She was unequally yoked to her spouse. Her desire was to do the right thing in her marriage and for others in spite of a brute of a husband. She was committed to a bad marriage until death do us part. GOD took care of “until death do us part” and freed Abigail.

We need to consider Nabal for a moment. Abigail was the opposite of Nabal. Was GOD using Abigail to get Nabal’s attention? She was a daily witness to him for his short comings but he was too stubborn or proud to change his ways. His violent character led to his death via a stroke.

GOD does not always remove us from bad situations but HE can help us through bad situations. GOD has blessed most of us with faithful, intelligent, trustworthy, hard working, caring spouses. My prayer is that each of us will thank our LORD for our mate and we will honor and appreciate them.

I am not suggesting that a spouse stay with an abusive spouse. To me a man that abuses his wife is about a low as he can get. Either get help or leave when it is safe to leave. The same goes for people who abuse children. We hear of this often and it comes from Satan. It is often the result of pornography.

What is your character? What character comes out when you are tested?

The character of believers is being shaped each day as they are either obedient or disobedient to the LORD. Allow GOD to shape your character by yielding your will to HIM and ask HIM to help you build a dynamic relationship with HIM.

Hannah - 1 Samuel 1 and 2 - May 10, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Hannah: Ideals of Motherhood – May 10, 2009

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Profiles in Character.”

Our scripture is 1 Samuel 1:1-3, 4-8, 9-18, 19-28; 2:1-2.

We are studying people of character. Last week we studied Barzillai. Barzillai was an eighty (80) year old man who saw a need and provided provisions for King David and his army when David was fleeing from his son Absalom. Barzillai’s willingness to share with the deposed king put his life and the lives of his family at risk. It also revealed his character. His desire to help was likely a way of life to Barzillai. Barzillai responded from a concerned and caring heart. He helped David without any thought of “What’s in it for me.” If David had lost the battle to Absalom, Absalom would have considered Barzillai his enemy because he supported his dad. However, that was not the case. Absalom was defeated and David returned to his throne in Jerusalem as king.

GOD is in the business of building character in those willing to serve HIM. It is a life-long process, called sanctification. GOD’S desire is for all believers to become like HIS SON JESUS.

In our study today, we will look at Hannah and also the judge/priest Eli.
Israel had been ruled by judges for about 200 years. Eli and Samuel would be the last judges to rule Israel. GOD was about to make a change and GOD had a plan for Hannah and the son GOD would give her.

Was Hannah barren because her heart needed to be brought to the point where she would not only dedicate her first born son to GOD but give him over to the priest Eli to raise and to serve GOD?

Let’s read 1 Samuel 1:1-3:

1 There was a man from Ramathaim-zophim (RAY muh THAY im ZOH fim) in[1] Or from Ramathaim, a Zuphite from the hill country of Ephraim.[2] Jos 17:14–18 His name was Elkanah (el KAY nuh) son of Jeroham, son of Elihu, son of Tohu, son of Zuph, an Ephraimite. 2 He had two wives, the first named Hannah and the second Peninnah (pih NIN uh). Peninnah had children, but Hannah was childless. 3 This man would go up from his town every year to worship and to sacrifice[3] Ex 23:14–17 to the Lord of • Hosts at Shiloh,[4] Jos 18:1 where Eli’s two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were the Lord’s priests.

Here is a man with two (2) wives. Hannah was Elkanah’s first wife. It was likely Peninnah became wife number two because Hannah could not produce a child. Peninnah was fertile and produced children. As you can imagine, one wife being childless and the other getting pregnant at the drop of a hat, it produced tension between Hannah and Peninnah. Later, we see that Peninnah rubbed in the fact that Hannah was barren.

Elkanah was a devout man and would go to Shiloh every year to worship and sacrifice to the LORD. The tabernacle and the ark-of-the-covenant resided in Shiloh, which was about twenty (20) miles from Ramah (RAY muh), where Elkanah lived. He took his family with him. Eli was the high priest.

Let’s focus for a minute on Eli. Eli was a poor parent. His two (2) sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests but Eli had allowed them to do despicable things in their capacity as priests. Eli himself had compromised from worshiping the creator, GOD, to worshiping the created. He was going through the motions of serving GOD. His heart was not in it. Eli’s character had shifted.

Believers need a checkup to see if they have lost their first love. It is easy to get caught up in the mechanics of worshiping and serving GOD.

As I pondered this part of the lesson, I thought of the broader reach of GOD as HE carried out HIS plan through Hannah and Samuel. Eli’s sons had been carousing with the ladies that came to worship. As Eli took his position beside the doorpost of the tabernacle, did he think Hannah had been partying with his son or sons? Her earnest and heartfelt response penetrated the heart of Eli. Was GOD, through Hannah, attempting to bring Eli back to his worship and obedience to HIM through answered prayer? Was the birth of Samuel and the return of Samuel to Eli for him to raise, a second chance for Eli to get parenting right and properly train Samuel as a priest?

We can speculate with the answers but the main reason for raising these questions is that we can see the possibilities that a loving and caring GOD has for HIS children who serve HIM. This includes believers who GOD calls for special service. GOD gives opportunity for those who go astray to return but when they fail to take heed, they will suffer the consequences. GOD told Eli that his sons would both die on the same day. 1 Samuel 4:11 - 11 The ark of God was captured, and Eli’s two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, died.

Eli’s character had changed from worshiping and serving GOD to going through the motions. We need to ask our LORD to search our hearts and reveal anything that is causing us to compromise our worship and service to HIM.

Let’s read 1 Samuel 1:4-8:

4 Whenever Elkanah offered a sacrifice, he always gave portions of the meat[5] Dt 12:17–18 to his wife Peninnah and to each of her sons and daughters. 5 But he gave a double[6] Or gave only one; Hb obscure portion to Hannah, for he loved her even though the Lord had kept her from conceiving. 6 Her rival would taunt her severely just to provoke her, because the Lord had kept Hannah from conceiving. 7 Whenever she went up to the Lord’s house, her rival taunted her in this way every year. Hannah wept and would not eat. 8 “Hannah, why are you crying?” her husband Elkanah asked. “Why won’t you eat? Why are you troubled? Am I not better to you than 10 sons?”

Notice how cruel Peninnah was to Hannah. Peninnah’s taunting had gone on for years. Enough is enough. Hannah did not try to harm Peninnah but instead she went to GOD. Was this GOD’S plan all along? Did Hannah need to be brought to this point of desperation to be able to give up her first born son to serve GOD? Hannah left in tears to go worship.

Let’s read 1 Samuel 1:9-18:

9 Hannah got up after they ate and drank at Shiloh.[7] LXX adds and presented herself before the Lord Eli the priest was sitting on a chair by the doorpost of the Lord’s tabernacle. 10 Deeply hurt, Hannah prayed to the Lord and wept with many tears. 11 Making a vow, she pleaded, “Lord of Hosts, if You will take notice of Your servant’s affliction, remember and not forget me, and give Your servant a son,[8] Lit a seed of men I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and his hair will never be cut.”[9] Lit and no razor will go up on his head [10] Nm 6:5; Jdg 13:5; 16:7 12 While she was praying in the Lord’s presence, Eli watched her lips. 13 Hannah was speaking to herself,[11] Lit to her heart and although her lips were moving, her voice could not be heard. Eli thought she was drunk 14 and scolded her, “How long are you going to be drunk? Get rid of your wine!” 15 “No, my lord,” Hannah replied. “I am a woman with a broken heart. I haven’t had any wine or beer; I’ve been pouring out my heart before the Lord. 16 Don’t think of me as a wicked woman;[12] 1 Sm 2:12 I’ve been praying from the depth of my anguish and resentment.” 17 Eli responded, “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant the petition you’ve requested from Him.” 18 “May your servant find favor with you,” she replied. Then Hannah went on her way; she ate and no longer appeared downcast.[13] Lit and her face was not to her again

Hannah was distraught over having no children. She took her situation to GOD. Eli was sitting on a chair by the doorpost to the LORD’S tabernacle. Hannah was pouring her heart out to GOD. Her lips were moving. Eli watched her. He jumped to a conclusion. He thought she was drunk. Talk about bad matters getting worse. She was already distraught over being barren and taunted by Peninnah now the priest thought she was drunk. We think how awful. But was GOD using this situation to get Eli involved in HIS plan for the child that GOD would give to Hannah? I think so. Often, we make blunders which turn out to be blessings. This blunder brought Eli and Hannah into a dialogue. The heartfelt, earnest response of Hannah likely penetrated the heart of Eli. When Eli spoke the words “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant the petition you’ve requested from Him.” Hannah responded with 18 “May your servant find favor with you,” she replied. Then Hannah went on her way; she ate and no longer appeared downcast.[13] Lit and her face was not to her again

Hannah left the tabernacle with her burden lifted and a spring in her step that GOD had heard her earnest prayer. The time was right for GOD’S plan to be put into motion. Timing is everything. There was a time for CHRIST to be conceived and born. There was a time for you to be born. You were created according to GOD’S plan and purpose. Are you serving HIM?

The joy of serving the living GOD puts a spring in our step. Hannah left with complete assurance that GOD would grant her request.

Let’s read 1 Samuel 1:19-28:

19 The next morning Elkanah and Hannah got up early to bow and to worship the Lord. Afterwards, they returned home to Ramah. Then Elkanah was intimate with his wife Hannah, and the Lord remembered her.[14] 1 Sm 1:11; Gn 8:1; 30:22 20 After some time,[15] Lit In the turning of the days Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel,[16] Possibly a wordplay for requested from God because [she said]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , “I requested him from the Lord.” 21 When Elkanah and all his household went up to make the annual sacrifice and his vow offering to the Lord, 22 Hannah did not go and explained to her husband, “After the child is weaned, I’ll take him to appear in the Lord’s presence and to stay there permanently.” 23 Her husband Elkanah replied, “Do what you think is best,[17] Lit what is good in your eyes and stay here until you’ve weaned him. May the Lord confirm your[18] DSS, LXX, Syr; MT reads His word.”[19] Nm 30:13 So Hannah stayed there and nursed her son until she weaned him. 24 When she had weaned him, she took him with her to Shiloh, as well as a three-year-old bull,[20] DSS, LXX, Syr; MT reads Shiloh with three bulls two and one-half gallons[21] Lit bull and an ephah of flour, and a jar of wine.[22] Nm 15:9–10 Though the boy was [still]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. young,[23] Lit And the youth was a youth she took him to the Lord’s house at Shiloh. 25 Then they slaughtered the bull and brought the boy to Eli. 26 “Please, my lord,” she said, “as sure as you live, my lord, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the Lord. 27 I prayed for this boy, and since the Lord gave me what I asked Him for,[24] 1 Sm 1:17,20 28 I now give the boy to the Lord. For as long as he lives, he is given to the Lord.”[25] 1 Sm 1:11 Then he[26] DSS read she; some Hb mss, Syr, Vg read they bowed and worshiped the Lord there.[27] LXX reads Then she left him there before the Lord

Hannah gave birth to a bouncing baby boy and named him Samuel which means “heard of GOD.” She did not go back to Shiloh to worship until Samuel was weaned. This could have been when he was about three (3) years old the customary time for weaning.

We see the character of Hannah because she went to GOD for the solution to her situation and placed her trust in HIS hands. We can see the possibility that through Hannah, GOD was also reaching out to Eli. GOD uses all things to minister to HIS children and to accomplish HIS plan and purpose.

What is your attitude and character toward GOD? Are you going through the motions of worshiping and serving HIM or is HE the joy of your life?

Let’s read 1 Samuel 2:1-2:

1 Hannah prayed: My heart rejoices in the Lord; my • horn is lifted up by the Lord.[1] Ps 75:4–5,10; 92:10 My mouth boasts over my enemies, because I rejoice in Your salvation. 2 There is no one holy like the Lord. There is no one besides You! And there is no rock like our God.[2] 2 Sm 7:22; Ps 18:31

Hannah praised GOD for HIS answer to her prayer. Mary, the mother of JESUS, modeled a portion of her prayer after Hannah’s prayer.

Hannah rejoiced in her heart, her strength was in the LORD and HE was her salvation. GOD was her rock. WOW! Is GOD your rock?

Hannah’s reference to “horn” means power. It was not her power but the power of the LORD that gave her salvation. The same is true for all believers. Our salvation is in the power of CHRIST WHO gave HIS life to redeem all believers from sin and death. Our part is to believe and accept.

Hannah’s character was molded by her faith in GOD. Notice that she had gone to Shiloh each year. Each year Peninnah taunted her. This time Hannah had the courage to petition GOD. When she encountered the impossible she went to GOD for help. When difficulty comes our way, where do we turn for help? Had Hannah tried every herb and folklore to try to get pregnant? When nothing her lady friends suggested worked, was it then that she turned to GOD? We do not know. But I know when couples want a child they try all sorts of things. I quickly add that GOD has given us a better understanding for conceiving a child today. Even when we use what GOD has revealed to mankind, prayer has to be job number one. Seek HIS guidance and when HE answers, go rejoicing because GOD has heard your request and it has been done.

Barzillai: The Man WHo Grew Old Gracefully - 2 Samuel 17, 19, 1 Kings 2 - May 3, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Barzillai: The Man Who Grew Old Gracefully – May 3, 2009

This begins a new series of study entitled “Profiles in Character.”

We will have five (5) lessons studying five (5) different people in the Bible:

May 3 – Barzillai – A man in his eighties who brought provisions to King David and his men.

May 10 – Hannah – Hannah was barren and prayed for a son whom she promised to give back to GOD. GOD granted her requests and she gave birth to Samuel.

May 17 – Abigail – Abigail was a gracious woman who was married to a foolish, evil man.

May 24 – Barnabas – Barnabas was a great encourager.

May 31 – Philip – Philip loved to tell the Good News to others

Our scripture is 2 Samuel 17:27-29; 19:31-39; 1 Kings 2:1,7

As I prepared for this lesson, it brought back memories of people in my early developing years for whom I had great respect. They were “salt of the earth” type people who were wise and would give you the shirt off their backs. Sharing was a way of life and so was honesty and hard work. A person’s word was his/her bond.
Over the years we have all seen “greed” run rampant.

Our lesson today focuses on a man named Barzillai (bahr ZIL igh). His name means “made of iron.” He is eighty (80) years old and is wealthy. King David’s son, Absalom, led a rebellion against his father. Absalom had great appeal to the people and was very handsome. He had charisma. He convinced the people that he could rule better than his father King David. Absalom secretly plotted a revolt. King David learned of the plot and fled to Mahanaim (may huh NAY im) which is beyond the Jordan River. (Mahanaim is mentioned in Genesis 32:2.) There may have been a fortress in Mahanaim and that is why King David took his loyal army there. David likely had several thousand people in Mahanaim. They had left in a hurry so when they got to Mahanaim they needed provisions. This brings us to the role of three (3) men willing to help David. Our focus will be on Barzillai.

Since Absalom was pronounced king by his followers and he controlled Jerusalem, those helping David could be considered traitors. Yet they all took the chance. It could mean (speculation) that these men considered David as king because he was anointed by GOD and Absalom was not. For whatever reason, they took a chance of becoming an enemy of Absalom by helping David.

Barzillai saw the need of King David and took provisions to them a number of times while they were in Mahanaim. Barzillai was a wealthy man and he shared his wealth. This reveals the heart of Barzillai.

Absalom was counseled to launch a full scale attack on King David to assure victory. Absalom took that advice but in doing so, it allowed King David time to assemble a loyal army. Absalom was anointed king. Absalom appointed Amasa as the captain of his army and they crossed the Jordan to fight his father’s army. King David had an experienced army and they defeated Absalom’s army. Absalom tried to flee and his beautiful long hair got caught in the terebinth tree. King David had requested that Absalom be spared but Joab, King David’s captain, killed him. King David grieved over the death of his son.

Let’s read 2 Samuel 17:27-29:

27 When David came to Mahanaim (may huh NAY im), Shobi (SHOH bigh) son of Nahash from Rabbah of the Ammonites, Machir (MAY kihr) son of Ammiel from Lo-debar, and Barzillai (bahr ZIL igh) the Gileadite (GIL ih uh dight) from Rogelim (ROH guh lim) 28 brought beds, basins,[13] LXX reads brought 10 embroidered beds with double coverings, 10 vessels and pottery items. [They also brought]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils,[14] LXX, Syr; MT adds roasted grain 29 honey, curds, sheep, and cheese[15] Hb obscure from the herd for David and the people with him to eat. They had reasoned, “The people must be hungry, exhausted, and thirsty in the desert.”

The three (3) men who provided provision to David and his army were Shobi, Machir and Barzillai. The provisions are listed in verses 28 and 29. The reason they provided them with these provisions was because they were hungry, exhausted and thirsty. Simply there was a need and they met their need.

I know after the Katrina hurricane, our church worked with a number of local people to provide shelter, furniture, clothes, food, transportation or fuel for several displaced people. It was to meet a need.

There are needs all around us every day. Some people depend on the generosity of others to live and others simply cannot provide for themselves. Mobile Meals provides food to people who cannot provide for themselves or would simply not eat because they could not prepare their food. The list of organization that help others is numerous and are hurting during these poor economic times.

After King David and his army had killed Absalom and defeated his army they could return to Jerusalem.

Let’s read 2 Samuel 19:31-37a:

31 Barzillai the Gileadite had come down from Rogelim and accompanied the king to the Jordan River to see him off at the Jordan. 32 Barzillai was a very old man—80 years old—and since he was a very wealthy man, he had provided for the needs of the king while he stayed in Mahanaim.[16] 2 Sm 17:27–29 33 The king said to Barzillai, “Cross over with me, and I’ll provide for you[17] LXX reads for your old age; Ru 4:15 at my side in Jerusalem.” 34 Barzillai replied to the king, “How many years of my life are left that I should go up to Jerusalem with the king? 35 I’m now 80 years old. Can I discern what is pleasant and what is not? Can your servant taste what he eats or drinks? Can I still hear the voice of male and female singers? Why should your servant be an added burden to my lord the king? 36 Since your servant is only going with the king a little way across the Jordan, why should the king repay me with such a reward? 37 Please let your servant return so that I may die in my own city near the tomb of my father and mother.

Barzillai came down from Rogelim to bid farewell to David and his army. It is here we learn that Barzillai is eighty (80) years old. Life expectancy in that day is not known but thought to be between seventy (70) and eighty (80) years old. We know that King David was seventy (70) when he died and we know Barzillai was eighty (80).

King David invites Barzillai to come to Jerusalem with him and he would take care of him for the rest of his life. Barzillai tells David that since he is old and the typical aliments associated with aging had taken their toll on him – he could not taste what he eats or drinks and his hearing was gone – he did not want to be a burden to the king. Plus Barzillai did what he did for David and his army without expecting anything in return. He just wanted to stay close to his home town and die there.

David offered him the honor to live worry free for the rest of his life. The response of Barzillai again revealed his heart.

Let’s read 2 Samuel 19:37 b-39:

But here is your servant Chimham: let him cross over with my lord the king. Do for him what seems good to you.”[18] Lit what is good in your eyes 38 The king replied, “Chimham will cross over with me, and I will do for him what seems good to you,[19] Lit what is good in your eyes and whatever you desire from me I will do for you.” 39 So all the people crossed the Jordan, and then the king crossed. The king kissed Barzillai and blessed him, and Barzillai returned to his home.

Instead of receiving the honor himself, Barzillai offered an alternative. He has a son named Chimham (KIM ham) and he can go with the king. King David agreed to take Chimham with him to Jerusalem. Barzillai and David bid farewell. Chimham went with David and Barzillai returned to his home.

A period of time goes by and David is on his death bed. He is instructing his son, Solomon, who will be the new king.

Let’s read 1 Kings 2:1,7:

1 As the time approached for David to die, he instructed his son Solomon,[1]

7 “Show loyalty to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite and let them be among those who eat at your table because they supported me when I fled from your brother Absalom.[8] 2 Sm 15:19–22

King David is on his death bed and is instructing Solomon and he gives specific instructions regarding the sons of Barzillai. The phrase “let them be among those who eat at your table” does not mean they will literally eat every meal at Solomon’s table but see that they are provided for. Make sure they have land to grow food, raise animals, a dwelling to live in because they took care of me and my men when they did not have too.

When we see a need, respond to that need. We may never receive recognition for doing the right thing while we are upon earth but GOD sees all, even a cup of cold water given to another, and it pleases HIM that we reach out to others. Most of us do not want to receive recognition for what we do but what we do reveals the character of our heart. GOD sees our heart and it pleases HIM when HIS children are obedient.
Growing old gracefully - As we grow older are we getting more crotchety or do we allow the love of GOD to flow through us?