Moses and the Covenant at Mt. Sinai - Exam Notes PDF

Know that I am keeping my promise, and I am still working on it. That promise was not for you to ace a high score but for you to grasp the lessons and carry them with you. I am taking the time as there were several reasons that has caused the delay. I am sorry to keep you waiting. ***Be calm and ke...

Know that I am keeping my promise, and I am still working on it. That promise was not for you to ace a high score but for you to grasp the lessons and carry them with you. I am taking the time as there were several reasons that has caused the delay. I am sorry to keep you waiting. ***Be calm and keep going with the greens...*** Here's for you to lessen your burden of reviewing, to help lighten your review load, I've prepared a shorter version, while I still hope you'll keep valuing the modules with detailed information and hoping that you are not cursing them (or me) for being too informative. The exam covers from Moses to the Prophets, focusing mostly on Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and the Kings. Be sure to review from Moses to the Prophets (especially the table). Just be calm and keep going with the greens. Here's a summary to save you time: **MOSES and the COVENANT at Mt. Sinai** **Summary:** Moses was born in Egypt during a time when the Pharaoh, fearing the growing Hebrew population, ordered the death of all Hebrew baby boys. To save him, his mother hid him for three months, then placed him in a basket and set it afloat on the Nile River. Pharaoh's daughter found the baby and adopted him, raising Moses as an Egyptian prince, though he was aware of his Hebrew heritage. As an adult, Moses witnessed the suffering of the Hebrew slaves. One day, he killed an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew, forcing him to flee to Midian to escape Pharaoh's wrath. In Midian, Moses lived as a shepherd and married Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro, a priest of Midian. One day, while tending his flock, Moses encountered God speaking to him from a burning bush that was not consumed by the fire. God commanded Moses to return to Egypt and lead the Israelites out of slavery. However, Moses was reluctant at first because he doubted his abilities, feared that the Israelites wouldn't listen to him, and felt inadequate due to being **\"slow of speech and tongue.\"** He even asked God to send someone else. Despite these concerns, God reassured Moses, promising to be with him and appointing his brother Aaron to help communicate. Moses returned to Egypt and, with Aaron, demanded that Pharaoh release the Israelites from slavery. Moses told Pharaoh the message of God: **\"Let my people go, so that they may worship me in the wilderness\" (Exodus 7:16).** Each time, Moses warned Pharaoh before God sent a plague as a consequence of his refusal. Despite these warnings, Pharaoh continuously underestimated the plagues, believing they were natural phenomena. The ten plagues that struck Egypt were: 1) the Nile turning to blood, 2) a plague of frogs, 3) an infestation of gnats, 4) swarms of flies, 5) the death of livestock, 6) boils on people and animals, 7) a hailstorm, 8) a plague of locusts, 9) three days of darkness, and 10) the death of all firstborns in Egypt. Each plague grew progressively severe, but Pharaoh's heart remained hardened until the final and most devastating plague. **Before the last plague, Moses instructed the Israelites to prepare for the first Passover meal. They were to sacrifice a spotless lamb, eat it with unleavened bread and bitter herbs, and mark their doorposts with the lamb's blood. This sign protected them from the angel of death, who \"passed over\" their homes, sparing their firstborns. This event became a key tradition, symbolizing God's deliverance from slavery and His protection of His people.** After the death of Egypt's firstborns, Pharaoh finally relented and allowed the Israelites to leave. Moses led them out of Egypt, and God parted the Red Sea, allowing them to escape as Pharaoh's army pursued them. Once the Israelites were safely across, the waters returned, drowning the Egyptian soldiers. In the desert, the Israelites often complained about hunger and thirst. God provided manna from heaven, quail, and water from a rock to sustain them. However, despite God\'s provision, the Israelites grew greedy and abused the manna, attempting to gather more than they were instructed, resulting in spoiled food. This reflected their lack of trust in God's daily provision. While Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments from God, the Israelites became impatient. In Moses\' absence, they asked Aaron to make a golden calf for them to worship, turning away from God and violating the very commandments Moses was receiving. Upon descending from the mountain and seeing this idolatry, Moses shattered the tablets in anger. Despite this betrayal, God later renewed His covenant with the Israelites and gave Moses another set of stone tablets with the Ten Commandments. **Lessons and Implications from the story of Moses:** 1. **God allowing Moses to live in Pharaoh's palace despite the risk** shows that sometimes, God allows us to be in challenging or risky situations to build our character and develop the skills we need later in life, just as Moses learned leadership during his time as an Egyptian prince. This teaches us resilience and preparation for greater responsibilities. 2. [**Moses fleeing to Midian** reminds us that there are times when we also run away from our problems or dilemmas because we need time and space to reflect. However, like how God called Moses back to Egypt, we eventually need to face the consequences of our actions. This teaches us about accountability for our mistakes and sins.] 3. **Moses doubting his abilities** shows that like him, we often underestimate our own potential. But God reassures us and equips us for the tasks He assigns. It's a reminder that He doesn't call the qualified; rather, He qualifies the called. 4. **Pharaoh's stubbornness in underestimating natural phenomena** like the plagues reminds us of our own tendency to ignore or downplay the warning signs in life. We can be just as stubborn and refuse to acknowledge the consequences of our choices. 5. **Crossing the Red Sea** symbolizes how, through God's grace, we can overcome even the greatest challenges in life. Just as He parted the sea for the Israelites, God will make a way for us to pass through our deepest troubles. 6. **Complaints and abuse of food and resources** show that like the Israelites, we tend to complain and misuse the blessings God provides. Yet, despite our ingratitude, God continues to sustain us. This calls us to reflect on how we should manage resources responsibly and be thankful for His provision. 7. **Impatience and turning to false gods** during Moses' absence teach us how our lack of patience and trust in God can lead us astray. When we don't wait for God's timing, we often end up seeking false solutions that lead us into sin. 8. **The Ten Commandments** serve as a reminder of God's desire to free us from the bondage of sin. They are not restrictions but guidelines for living a life of true freedom, one that is free from the destructiveness of immoral acts. 9. For **students who may feel lost or confused**, the story of Moses speaks directly to those who love shortcuts, overspend on things that aren't important, miss home, complain about food, or struggle with their priorities. It's a reminder that God is always present to guide them through their hardships and give them direction, even when they feel overwhelmed or uncertain. **The conquest of Joshua and the Judges: The journey toward the Promised Land, the land flowing with milk and honey.** **Summary:** #### #### 1. **Joshua's Commissioning (Joshua 1:1-9)** After Moses' death, God spoke to Joshua, son of Nun, and instructed him to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God promised Joshua that He would be with him just as He was with Moses. God's command was clear: be strong and courageous and obey the Law given through Moses (Joshua 1:7-9). This passage symbolizes the transition of leadership and the importance of trusting in God's guidance. **Key Symbolism**: Joshua's name means "The Lord is salvation," foreshadowing the role he would play as a savior figure leading the Israelites into a new life, just as Jesus (whose name in Hebrew is also "Yeshua") would later lead humanity to salvation. - **Joshua 1:5**:\ *"No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you."* - **Joshua 1:6**:\ *"Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them."* - **Joshua 1:9**:\ *"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."* #### 2. **Crossing the Jordan River (Joshua 3:1-17)** The Israelites camped by the Jordan River, waiting to cross into Canaan. [God instructed the priests to carry the Ark of the Covenant into the river. As their feet touched the water, the Jordan stopped flowing, and the people crossed on dry ground (Joshua 3:16-17).] This miraculous event is reminiscent of the crossing of the Red Sea, showing that **God's presence (symbolized by the Ark) makes a way for His people. He always reassure his guidance in their journey.** **Key Symbolism**: The crossing represents the transition from the old life in the wilderness to the new life in the Promised Land. It is also a foreshadowing of Christian baptism, where believers pass from death to life through water. #### 3. **The Twelve Stones at Gilgal (Joshua 4:1-9, 19-24)** After crossing, Joshua instructed twelve men, one from each tribe, to take stones from the riverbed and set them up at Gilgal as a memorial. These stones served as a reminder for future generations of how God led Israel across the Jordan (Joshua 4:21-24). **Key Symbolism**: The stones symbolize the unity of the twelve tribes and the faithfulness of God. They are a memorial of God's power and a call to future generations to remain faithful. #### 4. **The Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:1-27)** Jericho, a fortified city, was the first battle the Israelites faced. God commanded them to march around the city once a day for six days, and on the seventh day, they were to march around it seven times. After the priests blew their trumpets and the people shouted, the walls of Jericho collapsed, allowing the Israelites to take the city (Joshua 6:20). **Key Symbolism**: The fall of Jericho emphasizes faith and obedience. The number seven is symbolic of completeness and divine intervention. The victory shows that it is not by human strength but by God's power that triumphs are won. #### 5. **Rahab and the Scarlet Cord (Joshua 2:1-21; 6:22-25)** Before the fall of Jericho, Joshua sent two spies into the city. They were hidden by Rahab, a prostitute who believed in the God of Israel. In return for her protection, they promised to spare her and her family. She was instructed to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign (Joshua 2:18). When Jericho fell, Rahab and her family were saved (Joshua 6:22-25). **Key Symbolism**: Rahab's scarlet cord is a symbol of salvation and foreshadows the blood of Christ. Rahab's faith led to her being spared, demonstrating God's mercy and the inclusiveness of His salvation. #### 6. **Achan's Sin and the Defeat at Ai (Joshua 7:1-26)** After the victory at Jericho, Achan disobeyed God's command and took some of the spoils, causing Israel to be defeated at Ai. When Joshua sought God's guidance, the sin was revealed, and Achan, along with his possessions, was destroyed (Joshua 7:25-26). Only then did God restore Israel's favor, and they defeated Ai (Joshua 8:1-29). **Key Symbolism**: This episode illustrates the importance of obedience and holiness within the community. The collective responsibility of Israel emphasizes that the sin of one affects the whole, highlighting the need for communal purity before God. #### 7. **Renewal of the Covenant at Mount Ebal (Joshua 8:30-35)** After the victory at Ai, Joshua built an altar on Mount Ebal as commanded by Moses. The Israelites offered sacrifices, wrote the Law on stones, and renewed their covenant with God (Joshua 8:30-35). Joshua read all the words of the Law, blessing the people. **Key Symbolism**: The renewal at Mount Ebal shows the **[importance of continually recommitting to God's covenant.]** [It signifies unity and the centrality of God's word in the life of the community.] #### 8. **The Sun Stands Still (Joshua 10:1-15)** In the battle against the Amorite kings, Joshua prayed for the sun to stand still so the Israelites could defeat their enemies. God answered, and the sun stopped in the sky until Israel achieved victory (Joshua 10:12-14). **Key Symbolism**: The miracle signifies God's control over creation and His commitment to fighting for His people. It also symbolizes the power of prayer and faith in God's intervention. #### 9. **Dividing the Land (Joshua 13-21)** Once the main conquests were complete, Joshua allocated the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Each tribe received its inheritance, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). The allocation of land ensured that each tribe had a place in the Promised Land, reinforcing the theme of God's faithfulness. **Key Symbolism**: The division of the land represents the **[fulfillment of God's covenant with His people.]** It also symbolizes rest and the inheritance **[promised] to those who trust in God.** #### 10. **Joshua's Farewell and Covenant Renewal at Shechem (Joshua 23-24)** At the end of his life, Joshua gathered the Israelites at Shechem, reminding them of God's faithfulness and urging them to remain loyal to God. He famously declared, **"Choose this day whom you will serve\... But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord"** (Joshua 24:15). The people renewed their commitment to God, and Joshua set up a stone as a witness to their covenant (Joshua 24:25-27). **Key Symbolism**: The farewell address and covenant renewal emphasize the importance of choosing whom to serve and the ongoing commitment required in a relationship with God. ### *11. **The Settlement of the Tribes and Joshua\'s Death (Joshua 21:43-45; Joshua 24:29-31)*** After Joshua led the conquest and the division of the land, the Israelites began settling in their respective territories. God's promises were fulfilled as the land He swore to give them was theirs, and they had rest from their enemies (Joshua 21:43-45). This period was marked by temporary peace and prosperity as long as the Israelites followed God's laws and remained faithful to the covenant. Joshua, having served faithfully, died at the age of 110 (Joshua 24:29). He was buried in the land of his inheritance at Timnath-serah in the hill country of Ephraim (Joshua 24:30). During his lifetime, and while the elders who outlived him remained, the Israelites served the Lord. ### *12. **The Need for Continued Obedience (Judges 2:6-10)*** After Joshua\'s death and the passing of the elders who witnessed God's works, a new generation grew up that did not know the Lord or what He had done for Israel (Judges 2:10). This marked the beginning of Israel\'s spiritual decline. Without the strong leadership of Joshua and the elders, the people struggled to stay faithful. They began to mix with the remaining Canaanite nations and adopted their customs and idolatrous practices, violating God's command to drive out the inhabitants and to avoid intermarriage (Deuteronomy 7:1-5). ### *13. **Israel's Apostasy and the Angel of the Lord's Rebuke (Judges 2:1-5)*** God had commanded the Israelites to completely drive out the Canaanites and destroy their altars. However, they failed to do so, which led to a mingling with the people of the land. The Angel of the Lord appeared at Bochim and rebuked Israel, reminding them of God's covenant and their disobedience. He warned that since they did not obey, the Canaanites would become snares and their gods would become a temptation to Israel (Judges 2:1-3). The people wept when they heard this rebuke, and they offered sacrifices to the Lord, but their repentance was short-lived (Judges 2:4-5). ### *14. **The Cycle of Disobedience, Oppression, and Deliverance (Judges 2:11-19)*** The Book of Judges records a cycle that repeatedly occurs throughout Israel's history after Joshua's death: - **Disobedience**: The Israelites did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. They served the Baals and other foreign gods, abandoning the Lord who brought them out of Egypt (Judges 2:11-13). - **Oppression**: As a result of their disobedience, God allowed them to be oppressed by neighboring nations. Enemies like the Philistines, Moabites, and Midianites invaded and enslaved them as a consequence of their idolatry (Judges 2:14-15). - **Repentance**: In their suffering, the Israelites would cry out to the Lord for help. They remembered their covenant with God and pleaded for deliverance. - **Deliverance**: In His mercy, God raised up judges---charismatic leaders who delivered Israel from their enemies. These judges led the people back to the Lord and restored peace for a time. - **Rest and Relapse**: After the judge's death, the people quickly returned to their old ways, and the cycle would begin again (Judges 2:18-19). This cyclical pattern demonstrated Israel's dependence on God's mercy and their need for leadership to guide them in obedience to the covenant. ### *15. **The Role and Purpose of Judges (Judges 2:16-18)*** **[God raised judges to deliver the Israelites from oppression.]** The judges were not kings; they were temporary leaders chosen by God for specific purposes. **Their role was to restore Israel's relationship with God and to defeat the oppressors who threatened Israel's existence.** - **Judges as Deliverers**: The judges acted as military leaders who, empowered by God's Spirit, led Israel to victory over their enemies. For example, Gideon led a small army against the Midianites, and Deborah led Israel against the Canaanites. - **Judges as Spiritual Leaders**: Judges also called Israel to repentance and helped restore proper worship and adherence to God's law. For a time, they brought peace to the land and reminded the people of God's covenant. ### 1. **Deborah (Judges 4-5)** Deborah was a prophetess and the only female judge of Israel. Her story emphasizes the power of faith and obedience. - **Call to Lead**: Deborah held court under a palm tree, where she judged disputes and gave prophetic guidance (Judges 4:4-5). She called Barak, a military leader, and commanded him, on God's behalf, to gather 10,000 men from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun to fight against the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander, Sisera (Judges 4:6-7). - **Barak's Hesitation and Deborah's Leadership**: Barak agreed but insisted Deborah accompany him, showing a lack of complete faith (Judges 4:8). Deborah agreed but told him that the honor of the victory would go to a woman (Judges 4:9). - **Victory Over Sisera**: Barak and his forces defeated Sisera's army with God's help, but Sisera fled. He sought refuge in the tent of Jael, who ultimately killed him, fulfilling Deborah's prophecy that a woman would claim the victory (Judges 4:21). - **The Song of Deborah**: Judges 5 records the \"Song of Deborah,\" a poetic celebration of the victory. It praises God for His deliverance and highlights the courage of Deborah, Barak, and Jael. **Key Symbolism**: Deborah's leadership symbolizes the importance of faith in action. Her story shows that **[God uses those who are willing to serve, regardless of gender, to accomplish His will.]** ### 2. **Gideon (Judges 6-8)** Gideon's story is a powerful example of how **God can use the least and the weakest to accomplish great things when they put their faith in Him**. **Do not underestimate nor judge a person based on his or her background.** - **Gideon's Call**: Gideon was from the weakest clan in Manasseh and was the least in his family. The Angel of the Lord called him a "mighty warrior" and instructed him to save Israel from the Midianites (Judges 6:11-12). Gideon doubted, but the angel assured him of God's presence (Judges 6:16). - **Testing God's Call**: Gideon asked for a sign using a fleece of wool. He asked that the fleece be wet with dew while the ground remained dry, and God fulfilled his request. He then reversed the conditions as another test, and God again complied (Judges 6:36-40). These tests revealed Gideon's need for assurance but also God's patience. - **Reducing the Army**: God instructed Gideon to reduce his army from 32,000 men to just 300 to show that the victory was not by human strength but by divine power (Judges 7:2-7). The men were chosen based on how they drank water, demonstrating God's hand in the selection process. - **Victory Over Midian**: Gideon and his 300 men surrounded the Midianite camp with trumpets, jars, and torches. At Gideon's signal, they blew the trumpets, broke the jars, and shouted, creating chaos among the Midianites, who turned on each other in panic (Judges 7:16-22). **Gideon earned the name---Jerubbaal---for destroying the altar of Baal who was the god of the Canaanites. Baal was a god of fertility for the Canaanites.** - **Downfall of Gideon**: After the victory, Gideon made an ephod (a priestly garment) from the gold collected as spoils, which led Israel into idolatry. This act, though not intended for evil, had negative consequences (Judges 8:27). **Key Symbolism**: Gideon's story emphasizes that God's strength is made perfect in human weakness. The reduced army shows that God alone brings victory. However, Gideon's downfall reminds us of the dangers of pride and idolatry. ### 3. **Samson (Judges 13-16)** [Samson's life is a story of God's strength and human weakness]. Despite his flaws, Samson was chosen to begin the deliverance of Israel from the Philistines. - **Samson's Birth**: An angel appeared to Samson's mother, declaring that her son would be a Nazirite, dedicated to God from birth. He was not to drink wine, touch anything unclean, or cut his hair (Judges 13:3-5). This vow symbolized holiness and separation for God's purpose. - **Samson's Exploits**: [Samson's strength came from his uncut hair, a symbol of his Nazirite vow. He performed many feats, including killing a lion with his bare hands (Judges 14:5-6) and striking down a thousand Philistines with a donkey's jawbone (Judges 15:15).] - **Samson and Delilah**: Samson's downfall came through his relationship with Delilah. She coaxed him into revealing the secret of his strength---his uncut hair (Judges 16:17). Once his hair was cut, he lost his strength, was captured by the Philistines, and was blinded (Judges 16:19-21). - **Samson's Final Act**: While in captivity, Samson's hair began to grow back. He prayed to God for strength one last time and pulled down the pillars of a Philistine temple, killing himself and many of his enemies (Judges 16:28-30). This act, though destructive, fulfilled his mission of beginning the deliverance of Israel. **Key Symbolism**: **The great lesson here is, [keep your secrets holy and be faithful to your vows. ]**Samson's strength and failures highlight the **importance of remaining true to God's calling.** **Trust in God's strength not to your own strength.** His story shows that even flawed individuals can be used for God's purposes, but the consequences of disobedience and sin are severe. ### 4. **Jephthah (Judges 11-12)** Jephthah's story is a mix of faith and tragedy, [demonstrating the consequences of rash vows.] - **Jephthah's Background**: **Jephthah was the son of a prostitute and was rejected by his family.** However, when the Ammonites threatened Israel, the elders sought him out for his skill as a warrior (Judges 11:1-11). - **Jephthah's Vow**: Before battle, Jephthah made a vow to the Lord, promising that if he achieved victory, he would sacrifice the first thing that came out of his house to greet him (Judges 11:30-31). God granted him victory, but when he returned home, his daughter was the first to come out (Judges 11:34). - **The Consequence**: Jephthah's vow led to a tragic situation. His daughter, his only child, accepted her fate and asked for time to mourn her virginity. Jephthah fulfilled his vow, though the exact nature of the fulfillment (whether she was sacrificed or dedicated to a life of celibacy) is debated (Judges 11:36-39). **Key Symbolism**: Jephthah's story illustrates the importance of careful words and the tragic consequences of rash promises. It also emphasizes God's willingness to use those whom society rejects, but with the need for wisdom and discernment. ### 5. **Samuel (1 Samuel 1-8)** Samuel, the last judge and a prophet, marked the transition from the period of the judges to the monarchy in Israel. - **Samuel's Birth and Dedication**: The name **Samuel** comes from the Hebrew name **Sh\'mu\'el (שְׁמוּאֵל)**, which means **\"God has heard\"** or **\"name of God.\"** **This reflects the biblical story of Samuel\'s birth, where his mother, Hannah, a barren woman, prayed earnestly to God for a child, and her prayer was answered (1 Samuel 1:20).** The name signifies both divine attentiveness and dedication to God. Hannah dedicated him to the Lord, and he was raised in the temple under the priest Eli (1 Samuel 1:20-28). This early dedication set Samuel apart for God's service from a young age. - **Samuel's Call**: As a boy, Samuel heard God's voice calling him. Samuel's calling came when he was a young boy serving under Eli in the temple. One night, God called out to him, but Samuel initially thought it was Eli. After the third call, Eli realized it was the Lord and told Samuel to respond*, **"Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening."*** **Samuel listened and obeyed, marking the start of his prophetic ministry.** - **Samuel as a Judge**: Samuel led Israel to victory against the Philistines and helped turn the people back to God. He called for repentance and led them in sacrifices and prayer (1 Samuel 7:3-10). Under his leadership, Israel enjoyed a period of peace (1 Samuel 7:15). - **Transition to Monarchy**: **Despite his faithful service, the people of Israel demanded a king to lead them like other nations.** Samuel warned them of the consequences but God instructed him to listen to the people. He eventually anointed Saul as Israel's first king, marking the end of the period of judges and the beginning of the monarchy (1 Samuel 8:4-22). - **Samuel warned the Israelites that having a king would result in the loss of their freedom.** Their sons would be forced into military service, their daughters taken as servants, and their lands, crops, and resources seized for the king\'s use. They would be heavily taxed and ultimately become servants to the king, losing the independence they once had. Even when they realized the burden of this oppression, God would not answer their pleas for relief. Despite these warnings, the people still demanded a king, choosing to sacrifice their freedom. - **Key Symbolism**: Samuel's life is a model of faithful service and obedience. [He answered God's calling when he was young, and He will be the one who will anoint King Saul and King David later when he grew as a prophet.] He was in a transition time between the Judges and the Kings. **So, God calls anyone whether young or old for the mission.** His role as the last judge and the one who anointed the first king illustrates God's plan to establish a monarchy, despite the people's demands and potential consequences. Israel's often oppression from their enemies made them demand for a king to Samuel. At first Samuel was hesitant since this was a sure evidence of their unfaithfulness and not acknowledging God/YHWH as their King. Later Samuel will give in to their demand with [great conditions]; **[The king must still acknowledge and be faithful to God/YHWH as the Highest King and the king should be faithful to the Israelites' covenant with God.]** If the king and the people will again be unfaithful to God, they will be wiped away or perish. ### **The First Three Kings of Israel** #### **King Saul** - **Chosen by God**: **Saul, from the tribe of Benjamin, was selected as Israel's first king due to his impressive stature and appearance. He was tall and handsome.** - **Anointed as King**: Samuel anointed Saul with oil, declaring him the commander of Israel, to lead and protect them from their enemies (1 Samuel 10:1). - **Warning to Obey**: Samuel warned both Saul and the people to remain obedient to God. Disobedience would lead to severe consequences for both king and nation (1 Samuel 12:13-15). - **Saul's Early Success**: Initially, Saul appeared humble and was successful in protecting Israel and extending its territory. - **Jealousy of David**: Saul became intensely jealous of David after David's victory over Goliath and his growing popularity among the people. David's success in battle and the admiration he received fueled Saul's envy, particularly when the people praised David more than Saul. - **Attempts to Kill David**: **Out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne, Saul made several attempts to kill David.** He tried to pin David to the wall with a spear and sent soldiers to hunt him down. Saul's actions were driven by his insecurity, believing David was a threat to his kingship. - [**Disobedience and Downfall**:] **Saul eventually [disobeyed God] by acting on his own desires, [leading to his rejection as king.]** - **1 Samuel 8:7 (NIV)**:\ *\"And the Lord told him: \'Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected **[me as their king.]**"* - - **Lesson**: Don't let others define your worth by how you look; it's your character, kindness, and integrity that matter most. After Saul's rejection, God asked Samuel to look for a new King. Samuel went to Bethlehem and anointed the young shepherd David, son of Jesse. At first Samuel was confused on whom to anoint since the sons of Jesse were all handsome or good looking. **God told Samuel, *["God does not look at the appearance but the heart of a person".]*** #### **King David** - **Ancestry**: David was the great-grandson of Ruth, a non-Israelite, showing God's openness to all who are faithful. David's lineage demonstrates God's inclusion of outsiders in His plan. - **Anointed by Samuel**: **[God chose David because of his heart, not his outward appearance]**, and Samuel anointed him while he was still a shepherd boy. - **Defeats Goliath**: David's rise to fame began with his defeat of Goliath, the giant Philistine, through faith in God. - **Conflict with Saul**: Saul became jealous of David's success and tried to kill him, but David spared Saul out of respect for his anointing as king. - **Achievements as King**: David was successful in his military conquests, established **Jerusalem as the City of David**, and brought the Ark of the Covenant there. - **Sins and Repentance**: **David committed grave sins, including adultery with Bathsheba and the arranged death of her husband, Uriah.** Through the prophet Nathan, David repented and sought God's forgiveness (Psalm 51). - **Legacy**: God promised David that his descendants would form an eternal dynasty, despite his human failings. #### **King Solomon** - **Wisdom from God**: Solomon, David's son, succeeded his father as king. When he prayed for wisdom to lead Israel, God granted it in abundance (1 Kings 3:6-9). - **Judgment and Proverbs**: His wisdom is famously demonstrated in the case of two women disputing over a baby. Solomon's judgment proved his God-given insight, and he is credited with writing many proverbs. - **Building the Temple**: Solomon built a magnificent temple in Jerusalem for the Ark of the Covenant, making it the center of Israel's worship and further establishing Jerusalem as the City of God. - **Sins of Solomon**: [Despite his wisdom, Solomon's reign was tarnished by sin.] **[He imposed heavy taxes on the people to finance his lavish building projects, including the temple and his palace]**. **He also used forced labor, married many foreign women, and built altars for their gods, committing the sin of idolatry.** - **Fall of the Kingdom**: As punishment for Solomon's sins, God allowed part of the kingdom to be taken away, with Jeroboam, one of Solomon's servants, ruling over most of Israel after Solomon's death. **The Division of the Kingdom and the coming of Prophets** - **Reason for Division**: **The kingdom of Israel was divided due to King Solomon\'s idolatry, heavy taxes, and forced labor, which led to discontent.** [After Solomon\'s death, his son Rehoboam ignored the people\'s plea for lighter burdens and chose to uphold his father\'s harsh policies.] [This led Jeroboam and others to rebel, forming the northern kingdom (Israel) while Rehoboam ruled the southern kingdom (Judah).] - **Importance of Prophets**: Prophets were vital in guiding the people back to God by warning them of the consequences of their sins, calling for repentance, and delivering God's promises. **They acted as God\'s messengers and \"bearers of truth.\"** - **Brief Description**: [Prophets were chosen by God to speak on His behalf, often addressing moral and spiritual issues, **guiding leaders,** and warning of future events.] +-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+ | **Prophet** | **Differences** | **Strong | **Symbolic | | | | Messages** | Implications** | +=================+=================+=================+=================+ | **Amos** | A shepherd from | \- [Condemns | \- Symbolizes | | | Tekoa, known | social | God's concern | | | for social | injustice and | for the | | | justice. | corruption | oppressed and | | | | among | poor.\ | | | | leaders.]{.unde | - [Represents | | | | rline}\ | the urgency of | | | | - Emphasizes | repentance to | | | | the need for | avert | | | | righteousness | disaster.]{.und | | | | and | erline}\ | | | | accountability. | - His humble | | | | \ | background | | | | - Warns of | symbolizes | | | | God's impending | God's use of | | | | judgment on | ordinary people | | | | Israel's | for prophetic | | | | complacency.\ | missions.\ | | | | - Calls for | - **[Highlights | | | | genuine worship | that God values | | | | rather than | justice and | | | | empty rituals. | righteousness | | | | | above | | | | | rituals.]{.unde | | | | | rline}** | +-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+ | **Hosea** | Married to | \- Demonstrates | \- **[His | | | Gomer, | God's steadfast | marriage | | | representing | love despite | symbolizes | | | Israel\'s | Israel\'s | Israel's | | | unfaithfulness. | unfaithfulness. | unfaithfulness | | | | \ | and God's | | | | - Warns of the | enduring love.\ | | | | consequences of | - Gomer's | | | | idolatry and | infidelity | | | | infidelity.\ | represents | | | | - Emphasizes | Israel's | | | | the need for | idolatry.\ | | | | spiritual | ]** | | | | renewal and | - | | | | repentance.\ | [Hosea's | | | | - Portrays | forgiveness of | | | | God's desire | Gomer | | | | for a restored | symbolizes | | | | relationship | God's | | | | with His | willingness to | | | | people. | restore His | | | | | people.]{.under | | | | | line}\ | | | | | - His life | | | | | serves as a | | | | | living metaphor | | | | | of God's | | | | | covenant | | | | | relationship | | | | | with Israel. | +-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+ | **Micah** | A contemporary | \- **[Calls for | \- Symbolizes | | | of Isaiah, | justice, mercy, | the importance | | | focused on | and humility as | of ethical | | | moral | core elements | behavior as a | | | integrity. | of | true form of | | | | worship.]{.unde | worship.\ | | | | rline}**\ | - His | | | | - Condemns | prophecies of a | | | | exploitation | coming ruler | | | | and corruption | foreshadow the | | | | among leaders.\ | Messiah, | | | | - Warns that | symbolizing | | | | destruction | hope and | | | | will come if | restoration.\ | | | | people do not | - Represents | | | | repent.\ | God's concern | | | | - Emphasizes | for the | | | | the hope of a | marginalized | | | | future ruler | and oppressed.\ | | | | from Bethlehem | - Emphasizes | | | | who will bring | that humility | | | | peace. | and justice are | | | | | central to | | | | | God's | | | | | expectations. | +-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+ | **Isaiah** | A prominent | \- **Foretells | \- [His | | | prophet with | the coming of | prophecies | | | visions of hope | the Messiah and | symbolize the | | | and | the future | hope of | | | restoration. | kingdom of | redemption and | | | | peace.**\ | salvation | | | | - Calls for | through the | | | | repentance and | Messiah.]{.unde | | | | faithfulness to | rline}\ | | | | God.\ | - His vision of | | | | - Warns against | the suffering | | | | alliances with | servant | | | | other nations | prefigures | | | | for security.\ | Christ's | | | | - Proclaims | sacrifice.\ | | | | God's holiness | - Isaiah's | | | | and the promise | encounter with | | | | of salvation. | God symbolizes | | | | | the need for | | | | [**Isaiah 33:22 | purity and | | | | (NIV)**: *\"For | holiness.\ | | | | the Lord is our | - His message | | | | judge, the Lord | highlights the | | | | is our | dual nature of | | | | lawgiver, the | God's judgment | | | | Lord is our | and mercy. | | | | king; it is he | | | | | who will save | | | | | us.\"*]{.underl | | | | | ine} | | +-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+ | **Jeremiah** | Known as the | \- Warns of the | \- His life | | | \"weeping | destruction of | symbolizes the | | | prophet,\" | Jerusalem due | pain of | | | faced | to | unheeded | | | opposition and | unfaithfulness. | warnings and | | | exile. | \ | the grief of a | | | | - Emphasizes | nation's fall.\ | | | | the importance | - The image of | | | | of repentance | the potter and | | | | and returning | clay represents | | | | to God.\ | God's power to | | | | - **Prophesies | reshape His | | | | about a new | people.\ | | | | covenant | - Jeremiah's | | | | written on the | message of a | | | | hearts of the | new covenant | | | | people.**\ | symbolizes | | | | - [Offers hope | renewal and | | | | for restoration | transformation. | | | | despite | \ | | | | suffering and | - His | | | | exile.]{.underl | perseverance | | | | ine} | symbolizes | | | | | faithfulness in | | | | | the face of | | | | | rejection and | | | | | suffering. | +-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+ | **Ezekiel** | A priest and | \- Emphasizes | \- His visions | | | prophet in | God's | symbolize God's | | | Babylon during | sovereignty | presence and | | | the exile. | over all | faithfulness | | | | nations.\ | even in exile.\ | | | | - Warns of | - The vision of | | | | judgment but | the dry bones | | | | also [promises | represents the | | | | restoration and | **[revival and | | | | a new | restoration of | | | | heart.]{.underl | Israel.\ | | | | ine}\ | ]** | | | | - Depicts the | - | | | | vision of the | The symbolic | | | | valley of dry | actions he | | | | bones as a | performs | | | | symbol of hope | illustrate the | | | | and renewal.\ | gravity of | | | | - Stresses the | Israel's sins | | | | importance of | and coming | | | | personal | judgment.\ | | | | responsibility | - His message | | | | and repentance. | emphasizes the | | | | | possibility of | | | | | spiritual | | | | | renewal and | | | | | hope despite | | | | | apparent | | | | | desolation. | +-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+ Hey Everyone, I get it---sometimes it feels like life is throwing too much at you. Whether you're missing home, stressing over things that don't really matter, or just feeling a bit lost, know you're not alone. The story of Moses teaches us that even when things seem tough, there's always a way through. We have been facing countless obstacles, many of us are tempted to take shortcuts or get distracted by things that really don't matter. It's easy to overspend just to find temporary happiness while we miss home and long for comfort. But remember, those feelings are valid. Prioritizing what truly matters can be tough, but it's part of the journey. Just as Moses, it\'s important to take a step back and focus on what's truly significant in our lives. God is with you, guiding you through these moments, even when they feel overwhelming. Take your time and know that you have the support you need. Don\'t forget that it\'s perfectly alright to take a moment to pause and gather your thoughts. God's got your back, guiding you even when you can't see it. So, when everything feels overwhelming, just keep moving forward and trust that you're on the right path. Hang in there! You've got this.