Shepherd Sunday - Misericordias Domini - The Second Sunday after Easter, 2023

 

Video link here - Vimeo - 

For Shepherd Sunday

Bethany Lutheran Church

Springdale, Arkansas

Pastor Gregory L. Jackson

Misericordias Domini – 

The Second Sunday after Easter, 2023

Pastor Gregory L. Jackson

 

Bethany Lutheran Church, 

10AM Central Daylight Time

 

The Hymn #436         The Lord's My Shepherd

The Confession of Sins
The Absolution
The Introit p. 16

Introit

The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord: by the word of the Lord were the heavens made. Psalm. Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.

The Gloria Patri
The Kyrie p. 17
The Gloria in Excelsis
The Salutation and Collect p. 19

Collect 

God, who by the humiliation of Thy Son didst raise up the fallen world, grant unto Thy faithful ones perpetual gladness, and those whom Thou hast delivered from the danger of everlasting death do Thou make partakers of eternal joys; through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth, etc.

The Epistle and Gradual       

 

Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

V. Then was the Lord Jesus known of the disciples: in the breaking of bread. Hallelujah!

V. I am the Good Shepherd: and know My sheep and am known of Mine. Hallelujah!

 

The Gospel              

Glory be to Thee, O Lord!
Praise be to Thee, O Christ!
The Nicene Creed p. 22
The Sermon Hymn #196              I Am Content 

I AM the Good Shepherd

 

The Communion Hymn # 328          O Jesus Lamb of God Thou Art - CPE Bach

The Preface p. 24
The Sanctus p. 26
The Lord's Prayer p. 27
The Words of Institution
The Agnus Dei p. 28
The Nunc Dimittis p. 29
The Benediction p. 31
The Hymn #50              Lord Dismiss Us    

 

Prayers and Announcements

• Medical Care - Pastor James Shrader and his wife Chris, Kermit Way and his wife Maria Ellenberger Way, Callie and her mother Peggy, C., Pam in Phoenix is scheduled for very difficult surgery.
• Randy Anderson's CT scan was completely clear - great news!

 

 

Second Sunday After Easter

Lord God, heavenly Father, who of Thy fatherly goodness hast been mindful of us poor, miserable sinners, and hast given Thy beloved Son to be our shepherd, not only to nourish us by His word, but also to defend us from sin, death, and the devil: We beseech Thee, grant us Thy Holy Spirit, that, even as this Shepherd doth know us and succor us in every affliction, we also may know Him, and, trusting in Him, seek help and comfort in Him, from our hearts obey His voice, and obtain eternal salvation, through the same, Thy Son Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, one true God, world without end. Amen.

 

KJV 1 Peter 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: 24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. 25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

 

KJV John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. 15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.

 

Three of Luther’s sermons on this text:

• Misericordias Domini. Second Sunday After Easter. John 10:11-16. Christ’s Office and Kingdom; or How Christ is the True Shepherd
• Second Sermon: Preachers, Civil Authorities, and the Knowledge of Christ
• Third Sermon: The Good Shepherd and his Sheep; or Christ’s Person, Office and Rulership

I AM the Good Shepherd

KJV John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

Greek, the universal language at the time, phrases this unlike anything we have in English. It is literally "The Shepherd the Good" which means The Noble Shepherd  - or - The Shepherd above All Shepherds.

I got into a discussion about German Shepherd dogs on Facebook. The owners (or rather - the staff) were agreed that their dogs terrified strangers but were very intelligent, gentle and very protective with children. 

Jesus strikes many as terrifying because they do not know Him or believe in Him. Some people respond to Jesus by mocking His Two Natures, human and divine. They have all kinds of clever things to say, and they want to reduce the Savior to someone  not as bright as they are.

A new/old book arrived that showed me how cleverly the Bible has been defamed in the last 150 years. I have 20+ books on this topic. The author of this book pointed out how easily the new Bibles were accepted, and how many denominations had a variety of translations they used without much fuss at all. The reason is - the battle was over. The corrupt Greek texts (fraudulent Sinaiticus and corrupt Vaticanus) - mixed in with Apostolic (Traditional, Received, Byzantine) Text - were easily passed off as "scholarly, the oldest, the best, the most accurate, the earliest" Greek New Testaments.

Jesus is the Unique Shepherd, the Shepherd above all human shepherds, unlike any human shepherd. This Sunday is called Shepherd Sunday because Jesus teaches us the true nature of being the Son of God. The Bible has around 500 references to shepherds and shepherding, and they point to this very special description - The Good Shepherd. 

12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.

The Good Shepherd gave up His life for His flock, those who believe in Him. Every Christian believer has a name. I was asked about this last week. I said, "The baptismal name is the one which stays with that person's soul into eternity." Question - "What about non-believers?" I said, as I often do, "I am sales, not management."

The hireling is there for the money, which we can often see, because they define their work with glory and glitter, the size of their parking lots and their endowment funds. One famous grandson wrecked his well known congregation and blamed it on his wife. No worry - he showed up later in another format, because he was and is a hireling.

The wolf, who represents all false teachers, slaughters and scatters the sheep, the first group gathering his funds for a great income, tenure, and the adoration of the foolish. The second group of wolves charge at the believers for the fun of it - destroying faith in Jesus Christ through mocking the Scriptures and boasting of their great knowledge. 

One seminary professor had his adult son read from a ridiculous book called "The Shining Stranger" - supposedly from Harvard and written about Jesus. (secret author at the time) When I pointed out how ridiculous it was, in front of the graduate class, the professor was outraged - but never mentioned the book again. This author was the "first one ever to discover this special knowledge about Jesus." I asked, "Really? Nobody had a clue about Jesus, century after century, until NOW?" Book readings stopped and nothing more was said.

13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.

The hirelings do not stay to protect the flock but run away, because they have no love for the flock. That is why so many giant churches evaporate, almost overnight. In contrast, the Apostle Paul met with all kinds of threats and tumult, and was always in anguish over the constant threats of false teachers and their false doctrine.

14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.

The Son of God knows each and every one of His flock, and His own know Him. In the past, when I was asked to give the sermon at a liberal (apostate) church, the believers would nod their heads in agreement and the council members would frown and fold their arms. My divisive message was about the truth of the inerrant, infallible Scriptures.

This should always be in our minds - Jesus knows us and works through the Word to keep us in the flock. The Holy Spirit, through the Word, condemns unbelief in Jesus (John 16). The Spirit through the Word (Isaiah 55)

1. Always accomplishes God's Word
2. Never returns void, empty.
3. Always prospers His purpose.

Those two passages are the bedrock of Christian life. 

• John 16 teaches that unbelief in Jesus is the foundational sin.
• Isaiah 55 teaches that God's Word always accomplishes and prospers God's Word. The verification is - "never returns empty," a double negative that forms a  100% positive. 

15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.

The Father-Son relationship is 100%. There is no gap in the Father's love and grace toward us, no gap in the power of Jesus the Son of God in helping us. 

When our skepticism and doubts try to take over and win the battle, we have to return to these passages - which teach faith in Jesus Christ the Good Shepherd, the Son of God. We know and trust that we could never get to the steps of the pearly gates, but the Lamb of God has exchanged His righteousness for our sins.

16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.

We should always remember that this little group of followers were isolated in a corner of the failing Roman Empire. The more they were hated, scattered, and killed, the more they grew. No other ancient work has a fraction of the copies of their works as we have of the New Testament. Translations were made and various publications were preserved so we have from 5 to 8 thousand copies, all proving how important the Bible was for people of all races and languages. And these Apostolic Texts agree with only a handful of exceptions (which include Sinaiticus and Vaticanus).

The missionaries were often translators, like William Tyndale, who insisted that everyone should hear the Voice of Jesus in their own language. The powerful clergy and king tried to silence him by arresting and killing him, but they found the Word of God was more powerful than the British Empire, the King, and her clergy.

The KJV is roughly 75% Tyndale's work.

Luther's Small Catechism Video - The Ten Commandments Video

 Vimeo Link to the Ten Commandments

 

The first suggestion made about a video series is - Luther's Small Catechism. I will go over each part for about 30 minutes. 

The Vimeo will be on the main blog, Ichabod, the video location - Gregory L. Jackson, and the Vimeo location.

The Lutheran Librarian - Bedrock of the Lutheran Library Publishing Ministry - Has a Link To Support His Work. No NIV Salesman Will Call.

Click here for Buy Alec a Free Coffee

Alec Satin is the Lutheran Librarian, publisher of hundreds of valuable, free Lutheran and Christian books online. He also prints a smaller number of titles for the cave dwellers who still turn pages and mark them for emphasis.'

Many of these titles were grabbed at seminary book auctions, where pastors' estates were divided among the students. The legacy synod publishers let the books fade away, but there is still demand for them but only a small supply of fragile titles. 

The current publishers have promoted their favorite, expensive apostate and blasphemous books while discarding:

1. Lenski
2. Loy
3. Leupold
4. Krauth
5. Schmauk
6. Jacobs
7. Reu
8. Valentine and others.

Creation Day Today - The Nutrition Counterpart - Exercise

 

All Time Views -9,890,225

The Fat-Sugar-Salt Diet has proven to be astonishingly effective in ruining the health of America - at a great financial cost in buying the chosen foods. Yesterday the pharmacy tech said, "Only one prescription?" I said, "That is why I am healthy - only one prescription, for my eyes."

Studies have shown that those who concentrate on vegetables, fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds will enjoy cascades of great nutrition and loss of weight. Many disorders - like diabetes - can be cured without needles and pills, especially useful since insulin itself harms health.

But now let us turn to the other side of health - exercise. It took me some years to realize how seductive the sugar and fat components produce such powerful addictions. When we exert ourselves, the body uses fast-acting sugar to get going, often called the glycogen (sugary) stage. That is when we have no desire to move an inch, so we make coffee and cinnamon-sugar toast - or Danish! Once that glycogen wears off, we want more sugar and even less exercise. 

We feel much better and want exercise when the fat-burning begins. That is why the start of a morning walk is odious at first on sugar and the end of the walk is delightful by burning fat. Fat is powerful and is an 8 cylinder engine compared to a 4 cylinder, rocket fuel instead of artificial maple syrup. 

High blood sugar is indicated by the constant fake need to consume even more sugar. Ice cream, colas, and breakfast and "protein" bars are one way to start the day and run into a sugared-energy slump. 

Dr. Joel Fuhrman's books reminded me that strenuous exercise is needed most days, not just once or twice a week. I tried five days at the gym,  for two weeks in a row. I was much more energetic from daily exercise than using on and off attempts. 

Some food items to ignore - snacks of sugar, salt, and oil; processed expensive food; desserts; famously fat foods - white bread, white rice, milk, all cheeses, butter, cottage cheese, nutrition bars and plans, protein drinks, meats in large quantities.

Exercise

More important - exercise is most significant in strengthening bones, building muscles, and helping connective tissue in reducing injuries. Many people I know are battling bone breaks, knee and hip replacements.

Medicare offers a program called Silver Sneakers for free gym membership. That is a good way to obtain guided exercise instead of hospitalization. 

I start out each weekday on the dread-mill, a machine that makes me stare at a wall of TV screens, walking with no sound. A 30 minute exercise room has a gauntlet of machines for every body part. Afterwards, I stop at the gardening store or Walmart for more walking. 

Exercise gurus emphasize modest starts and a slow, steady increase in effort. Gardening is a good way to do extra work while enjoying God's Creation. The creatures enjoy the company. Rabbits casually walk by when I am digging. Birds remind me they have babies to feed. Squirrels run away from food and stop, flicking their tails and figuring out a quick return to the food. The more fresh water I provide, the dirtier the water features. "Aha! You are feeding the soil, so I can have more plants to feed more creatures to beautify the garden to make the snap, crackle, and pop relax my spine."

Walking and Biking

My vegetable consultant wrote, reminding me how useful walking can be. A gym is not for everyone, for various reasons. Walking is enjoyable and very good for the individual. One quip is "Anyone who walks is moving that much faster than a couch." Regular walkers or bikers crave the hobby. Sassy insisted on one or two walks a day, in all kinds of weather, and that built up many neighborhood friends as well. 

Luther Sermon Quote of the Day - "He Looks at the Sheep, Not at the Wool"

"He does not look upon their condition, but looks to see whether they are sheep, whether they may be designated sheep. He looks at the sheep, not at the wool."

Luther's Sermons - John 10:11-16.
Misericordias Domini. Second Sunday after Easter.

III. THE SPECIAL OFFICE CHRIST ADMINISTERS EXPLAINED.

31. How is he known of the Father? Not with an earthly, but with a heavenly, knowledge. Of that we have spoken more fully before, and the substance of it is this: Christ recognizes us as his sheep, and we recognize him as our shepherd. Now, we have heard what a good shepherd is, and also who the weak sheep are. He knows us to be such sheep as are weak, sick and broken. That is: It does not make any difference in his regard for them that they are weak and sickly, and he does not despise and reject them on that account; but he pities and heals them, even though they be so diseased that the whole world concludes they are not his sheep. Such is the world’s knowledge, but that is not the way that Christ distinguishes them.

He does not look upon their condition, but looks to see whether they are sheep, whether they may be designated sheep. He looks at the sheep, not at the wool.

32. Now, they are good shepherds who imitate Christ and know the sheep in the same way; who look at the person, not at the faults, and know how to distinguish between the sheep and the disease.

Complete Ederscheim - In One Volume - Published by Lutheran Library Publishing Ministry - Alec Satin Lutheran Librarian.

 

Newsletter from The Lutheran Library Publishing Ministry

In This Issue

Bible History (complete in one volume) by Alfred Edersheim Fields of Far Renown by Joseph Hocking The Columbus Theological Magazine Vol. 5, Matthias Loy, Editor The Columbus Theological Magazine Vol. 4, Matthias Loy, Editor The Columbus Theological Magazine Vol. 3, Matthias Loy, Editor

Featured

Bible History (complete in one volume) by Alfred Edersheim “It is to help the reader of Holy Scripture that the series has been undertaken. In writing it… I have wished to furnish what may be useful for reading in the family… More than this, I hope it may likewise prove a book to put in the hands of young men, — not only to show them what the Bible really teaches, but to defend them against the insidious attacks arising from misrepresentation and misunderstanding of the sacred text.” — Alfred Edersheim Alfred Edersheim (1825-1889), was raised Jewish. He studied at the University of Vienna and New College, Edinburgh. After finding faith in the Messiah, he was ordained in the Free Church of Scotland, and later the Church of England. Level of Difficulty: Primer: No subject matter knowledge needed. Book Contents About the author Map - The Sinai Peninsula Map - The Land of Canaan Vol. 1: The World Before the Flood and the History of the Patriarchs Preface to Volume 1 Contents of Volume 1 Dates Of Events Recorded In The Book Of Genesis, According To Hates, Ussher, And Keil. Introduction to Volume 1 1 Creation - Man in the Garden of Eden - The Fall (Gen. 1-3) 2 Cain and Abel - The Two Ways and the Two Races (Gen. 4) 3 Seth and his Descendants - The Race of Cain (Gen. 4) 4 Geneology of the Believing Race, through Seth (Gen 5) 5 The Universal Corruption of Man - Preparation for the Flood (Gen 6) 6 The Flood (Gen 7 - 8.15) 7 After the Flood - Noah’s Sacrifice - Noah’s Sin - Noah’s Descendants (Gen 8.15 - 9.28) 8 Genealogy of Nations - Babel - Confusion of Tongues (Gen 10 - 11.10) 9 The Nations and their Religion - Job. 10 The Chronology of the Early History of the Bible - Commencement of the History of God’s Dealings with Abraham and his Seed. 11 The Calling of Abram - His Arrival in Canaan, and Temporary Removal to Egypt (Gen 11.27 - 13.4) 12 The Separation of Abram and Lot - Abram at Hebron - Sodom plundered - Lot rescued - The Meeting with Melchizedek (Gen 13, 14) 13 The twofold Promise of “a Seed” to Abraham - Ishmael - Jehovah visits Abraham - the Destruction of Sodom - Abraham’s Sojourn at Gerar - His Covenant with Abimelech (Gen 15 - 20, 21.22-34) 14 Birth of Isaac - Ishmael sent away - Trial of Abraham’s Fatih in the Command to sacrifice Isaac - Death of Sarah - Death of Abraham (Gen 21 - 25.18) 15 The Marriage of Isaac - Birth of Esau and Jacob - Esau sells his Birthright - Isaac at Gerar - Esau’s Marriage (Gen 24; 25.18 - 26) 16 Isaac’s Blessing obtained by Jacob deceitfully - Esau’s Sorrow - Evil Consequences of their error to all the members of their family - Jacob is sent to Laban - Isaac renews and fully gives him the Blessing of Abraham (Gen 27 - 28.9) 17 Jacob’s Vision at Bethel - His Arrival at the House of Laban - Jacob’s double Marriage and Servitude - His Flight from Haran - Pursuit of Laban, and Reconciliation with Jacob (Gen 28.10 - 31) 18 Jacob at Mahanaim - The Night of Wrestling - Reconciliation between Jacob and Esau - Jacob settles at Shechem - Jacob proceeds to Bethel to pay his Vow - Death of Rachel - Jacob settles at Hebron (Gen 32 - 36) 19 Joseph’s Early Life - He is Sold by his Brethren into Slavery - Joseph in the House of Potiphar - Joseph in Prison (Gen 37 - 39) 20 Joseph in Prison - The Dream of Pharaoh’s Two Officers - The Dream of Pharaoh - Joseph’s Exaltation - His Government of Egypt (Gen 40, 41; 47.13-26) 21 The Sons of Jacob arrive in Egypt to Buy Corn - Joseph Reconizes his Brothers - Imprisonment of Simeon - The Sons of Jacob come a second time, bringing Benjamin with them - Joseph tries his Brethren - He makes himself known to them - Jacob and his Family prepare to descend into Egypt (Gen 42 - 45) 22 Departure of Jacob and his family into Egypt - Jacob’s Interview with Pharaoh - His last illness and command to be buried in Canaan - Adoption of Ephraim and Manasseh among the Sons of Israel (Gen 46 - 48) 23 The Last Blessing of Jacob - Death of Jacob - Death of Joseph (Gen 49) Advertisement: The Temple: Its Ministry and Services at the Time of Jesus Christ Vol. 2: The Exodus and the Wanderings in the Wilderness. Preface to Volume 2 1 Egypt and its History during the Stay of the Children of Israel, as Illustrated by the Bible and Ancient Monuments (Exodus 1. 1-7) 2 The Children of Israel in Egypt - Their Residences, Occupations, Social Arrangements, Constitution, and Religion- “A new King who knew not Joseph.” (Exodus 1 to end) 3 The Birth and the Training of Moses, both in Egypt and in Midian, as Preparatory to his Calling. (Exodus 2.) 4 The Call of Moses - The Vision of the Burning Bush - The Commission to Pharaoh and to Israel - and the three “Signs,” and their Meaning. (Exodus 2.23; 4.17) 5 Moses Returns into Egypt - The Dismissal of Zipporah - Moses meets Aaron - Their Reception by the Children of Israel - Remarks on the hardening of Pharaoh’s Heart. (Exodus 4.17-31.) 6 Moses and Aaron deliver their Message to Pharaoh - Increased Oppression of Israel - Discouragement of Moses - Aaron shows a sign - General view and Analysis of each of the Ten “Strokes,” or Plagues. (Exodus 5-12.30) 7 The Passover and its Ordinances - The Children of Israel leave Egypt - Their first Resting-places - The Pillar of Cloud and of fire - Pursuit of Pharaoh - Passage through the Red Sea - Destruction of Pharaoh and his Host - The Song “on the other side.” (Exodus 12 - 15.21) 8 The Wilderness of Shur - The Sinaitic Peninsula - Its Scenery and Vegetation - Its Capabilities of Supporting a Population - The Wells of Moses - Three Days' March to Marah - Elim - Road to the Wilderness of Sin - Israel’s Murmuring - The Miraculous Provision of the Quails - The Manna. (Exodus 15.22 - 16) 9 Rephidim - The Defeat of Amalek, and its meaning - The Visit of Jethro and its symbolical import. (Exodus 17, 18) 10 Israel at the foot of Mount Sinai - The Preparations for the Covenant - The “Ten Words,” and their meaning. (Exodus 19-20.17) 11 Civil and Social Ordinances of Israel as the People of God - Their Religious Ordinances in their National Aspect - The “Covenant made by Sacrifice,” and the Sacrificial Meal of Acceptance. (Exodus 20.18 - 24.12) 12 The Pattern seen on the Mountain - The Tabernacle, the Priesthood, and the Services in their arrangement and typical meaning - The Sin of the Golden Calf - The Divine Judgment - The Plea of Moses - God’s gracious forgiveness - The Vision of the Glory of the Lord vouchsafed to Moses. (Exodus 24.12 - 33) 13 Moses a Second Time on the Mount - On his return his face shineth - The rearing of the Tabernacle - Its Consecration by the seen Presence of Jehovah. (Exodus 34- 40) 14 Analysis of the Book of Leviticus - The Sin of Nadab and Abihu - Judgment upon the Blasphemer. (Leviticus) 15 Analysis of the Book of Numbers - The Numbering of Israel and that of the Levites - Arrangement of the Camp, and its Symbolical Import - The March. (Numbers 1-4; 10.1-11) 16 The Offerings of the “Princes” - The setting apart of the Levites - and the Second Observance of the Passover. (Numbers 7-9) 17 Departure from Sinai - March into the Wilderness of Paran - At Taberah and Kibroth-hattabah. (Numbers 10.29-11) 18 Murmuring of Miriam and Aaron - The Spies sent to Canaan - Their “Evil Report” - Rebellion of the People, and Judgment pronounced upon them - The Defeat of Israel “unto Hormah.” (Numbers 12-14) 19 The Thirty-eight Years in the Wilderness - The Sabbath-breaker - The Gainsaying of Korah and of his Associates - Murmuring of the People; the Plague, and how it was stayed - Aaron’s Rod budding, blossoming, and bearing fruit. (Numbers 15; 33.19-37; Deut. 1.46-11.15; Numbers 16, 17) 20 The Second Gathering of Israel in Kadesh - The Sin of Moses and Aaron - Embassy to Edom - Death of Aaron - Retreat of Israel from the borders of Edom - Attack by the Canaanitish King of Arad. (Numbers 20; 21.1-3) 21 Journey of the Children of Israel in “compassing” the land of Edom - The “fiery Serpents” and the “Brazen Serpent” - Israel enters the land of the Amorites - Victories over Sihon and over Og, the kings of the Amorites and of Bashan - Israel camps in “the lowlands of Moab,” close by the Jordan. (Numbers 21.3-35; 33.35-49; Deut. 2-3.11) Vol. 3: Israel in Canaan under Joshua and the Judges Preface to Volume 3 Contents of Volume 3 1 Israel about to take Possession of the Land of Promise - Decisive Contest showing the real Character of Heathenism - Character and History of Balaam. (Numbers 22) 2 The “Prophecies” of Balaam - The End of Balaam - Parallel between Balaam and Judas. (Numbers 22.36-25; 31.1-20) 3 The Second Census of Israel - The “daughters of Zelophehad” - Appointment of Moses' Successor - Sacrificial Ordinances - The war against Midian - Allocation of Territory East of the Jordan - Levitical and Cities of Refuge. (Numbers 26 - 36) 4 Death and Burial of Moses. (Deuteronomy 3.23-29; Numbers 27.15-23; Deuteronomy 34) 5 The Charge to Joshua - Despatch of the two Spies to Jericho - Rahab. (Joshua 1, 2) 6 Miraculous Parting of the Jordan, and the Passage of the Children of Israel - Gilgal and its meaning - The first Passover on the soil of Palestine. (Joshua 3 - 5.12) 7 The “Prince of the Host of Jehovah” appears to Joshua - The miraculous fall of Jericho before the Ark of Jehovah (Joshua 5.13; 6.27) 8 Unsuccessful Attack upon Ai - Achan’s Sin, and Judgment - Ai attacked a second time and taken. (Joshua 7 - 8.29) 9 Solemn Dedication of the Land and of Israel on Mounts Ebal and Gerisim - The Deceit of the Gibeonites. (Joshua 8.30, 9) 10 The Battle of Gibeon - Conquest of the South of Canaan - The Battle of Meroni - Conquest of the North of Canaan - State of the land at the close of the seven years' war. (Joshua 10-12) 11 Distribution of the land - Unconquered districts - Tribes east of the Jordan - “The lot” - Tribes west of the Jordan - The inheriance of Caleb - Dissatisfaction of the sons of Joseph - The Tabernacle at Shiloh - final division of the land. (Joshua 13 - 21) 12 Return of the two and a half Tribes to their Homes - Building of an Altar by them - Embassy to them - Joshua’s farewell Addresses - Death of Joshua - Review of his LIfe and Work. (Joshua 22-24) 13 Summary of the Book of Judges - Judah’s and Simeon’s Campaign - Spiritual and national Decay of Israel - “From Gilgal to Bochim.” (Judges 1 - 3.4) 14 Othniel - Ehud - Shamgar. (Judges 3.5-31) 15 The Oppression of Jabin and Sisera - Deborah and Barak - The Battle of Taanach - The Song of Deborah. (Judges 4, 5) 16 Midianitish Oppression - The Calling of Gideon - Judgment begins at the House of God - The holy War - The Night Battle of Moreh. (Judges 6 - 7.23(?)) 17 Farther Course of Gideon - The Ephod at Ophrah - Death of Gideon - Conspiracy of Abimelech - The Parable of Jotham - Rule and End of Abimelech. (Judges 7.23 - 9) 18 Successors of Abimelech - Chronology of the Period - Israel’s renewed Apostacy, and their Humiliation before Jehovah - Oppression by the Ammonites - Jephthah - His History and Vow - The Successors of jephthah. (Judges 10 - 12) 19 Meaning of the History of Samson - His Annunciation and early History - The Spirit of Jehovah “impels him” - His Deeds of Faith. (Judges 13 - 15) 20 The Sin and Fall of Samson - Jehovah departs from him - Samson’s Repentance, Faith, and Death. (Judges 16) 21 Social and Religious Life in Bethlehem in the Days of the Judges - The Story of Ruth - King David’s Ancestors. (The Book of Ruth) Vol. 4: Israel under Samuel, Saul, and David, to the Birth of Solomon Preface to Volume 4 Contents of the First Book of Chronicles (to beginning of Chap. XXx.), and List of the Parallel Narratives in the two Books of Samuel. Contents of Volume 4 1 Purport and Lessons of the Books of Samuel—Eli—Hannah’s Prayer and Vow—The Birth of Samuel—Dedication of the Child—Hannah’s Song. (1 Sam 1 - 2.11) 2 The Sin of Eli’s Sons—Eli’s Weakness—A Prophet’s Message—Samuel’s First Vision—His Call to the Prophetic Office. (1 Sam, 2.12 - 3.21) 3 Expedition against the Philistines—The Two Battles of Eben-ezer—Death of Eli’s Sons, and Taking of the Ark—Death of Eli—Judgment on the Philistine Cities—The Return of the Ark. (1 Sam 4 - 7.1) 4 Samuel as Prophet—The Gathering at Mizpeh—Battle of Eben-ezer; Its Consequences—Samuel’s Administration—The Demand for a King. (1 Sam 7, 8) 5 The Calling of Saul—Occasion of his Interview with Samuei—Samuel Communes with Saul—Saul is Anointed King—The Three: “ Signs “"— Their Deeper Significance. (1 Sam 9 - 10.16) 6 Saul Chosen King at Mizpeh—His Comparative Privacy—Incursion of Nahash — Relief of Jabesh-gilead— Popular Assembly at Gilgal— Address of Samuel. (1 Sam 10.17 - 12.25) 7 Saul Marches against the Philistines—Position of the two Camps—Jonathan’s Feat of Arms—Saul Retreats to Gilgai—Terror among the People—Saul’s Disobedience to the Divine Command, and Rejection of his Kingdom. (1 Sam 13) 8 Camps of Israel and of the Philistines—Jonathan and his Armour-bearer —Panic among the Philistines, and Flight—Saul’s Rash Vow—The “Lot” cast at Ajalon—Cessation of the War. (1 Sam 13.15 - 14.46) 9 The War against Amalek—Saul’s Disobedience, and its Motives—Samuel commissioned to announce Saul’s Rejection—Agag Hewn in Pieces. (1 Sam. 14.47-52; 15) 10 Samuel Mourns for Saul—He is directed to the house of Jesse—Anointing of David—Preparation of David for the Royal Office—The “ Evil Spirit from the Lord” upon Saul—David is sent to Court—War with the Philistines—Combat between David and Goliath—Friendship of David and Jonathan. (1 Sam. 16 - 18.4) 11 Saul’s Jealousy, and Attempts upon David’s Life—David marries Michal— Ripening of Saul’s Purpose of Murder—David’s Flight to Samuel— Saul among the Prophets—David finally leaves the Court of Saul. (1 Sam 18.4 - 20) 12 David at Nob—Observed by Doeg—Flight to Gath—David feigns Madness —The Cave of Adullam—Shelter in Moab—Return to the land of Israel—Jdonathan’s Last Visit—Persecutions by Saul. (1 Sam. 21 - 23) 13 Saul in David’s power at En-gedi—The Story of Nabal—Saul a second time in David’s power. (1 Sam. 24 - 26) 14 Dayid’s Second Flight to Gath—Residence at Ziklag—Expedition of the Philistines against Israel—Saul at Jezreel—He resorts to the Witch at Endor—Apparition and Message of Samuel—David has to leave the Army of the Philistines—Capture of Ziklag by the Amalekites— Pursuit and Victory of David. (1 Sam. 27 - 30) 15 The Battle on Mount Gilboa—Death of Saul—Rescue of the bodies by the men of Jabesh-gilead—David punishes the false Messenger of Saul’s Death—David king at Hebron—Ish-bosheth king at Mahanaim —Battle between the forces of Abner and Joab—Abner deserts the cause of Ish-bosheth—Murder of Abner—Murder of Ish-bosheth. (1 Sam 31 - 2 Sam. 4) 16 David anointed King over all Israel—Taking of Fort Zion—-Philistine Defeat—The Ark brought to Jerusalem—Liturgical arrangements and {nstitutions. (2 Sam 5, 6; 1 Chron. 11 - 16) 17 David’s purpose of building the Temple, and its Postponement — The Sure Mercies”’ of David in the Divine Promise—David’s Thanksgiving. (2 Sam 7; 1 Chron 17) 18 Wars of David—Great Ammonite and Syrian Campaign against Israel— The Auxiliaries are Defeated in turn—The capital of Moab is taken —Edom subdued—Record of David’s officers—His kindness to Mephibosheth. (2 Sam 8, 9; 1 Chron 18 - 20) 19 Siege of Rabbah—David’s great Sin—Death of Uriah—Taking of Rabbah —David’s seeming Prosperity—God’s Message through Nathan— David’s Repentance—The Child of Bathsheba dies—Birth of Solomon, (2 Sam 11, 12) Vol. 5: History Of Judah And Israel From The Birth Of Solomon To The Reign Of Ahab. Advertisement for the Bible History Preface to Volume 5 Contents of Volume 5 Chronological Table of the Kings of Judah and of Israel Advertisement: Theological Works of the Religious Tract Society 1 Jewish View of the History of David—Amnon’s Crime—Absalom’s Vengeance—Flight of Absalom—The Wise Woman of Tekoah—Absalom returns to Jerusalem—His Conspiracy—David'’s Flight. (2 SAM. X1II.—XVI.) 2 Ahithophel’s twofold Advice—Hushai prevents imminent Danger—David is informed, and crosses the Jordan—The Battle in the Forest—Death of Absalom—Mourning of David—David’s Measures—Return to Gilgal— Barzillai and Joab as Representative Men of their Period — Federal Republican Rising under Sheba—Murder of Amasa—Death of Sheba. (2 SAM. XviI.—xx.) 3 Appendix to the History of David. The Famine—The Pestilence—The Temple Arrangements—David’s Last Hymn and Prophetic Utterance. (2 SAM, XXIL—XXIV, 3 1 CHRON, XXIL—XXVIL.) 4 Adonijah’s Attempt to Seize the Throne—Anointing of Solomon—Great Assembly of the Chiefs of the People—Dying Charge of David— Adonijah’s Second Attempt and Punishment—Execution of Joab and of Shimei, (x KINGS 1, 11.3 1 CHRON. XXIIL I, XXVIII, XXIX.) 5 Solomon marries the Daughter of Pharaoh—His Sacrifice at Gibeon—His Dream and Prayer—Solomon’s Wisdom—Solomon’s Officers and Court —Prosperity of the Country—Understanding and Knowledge of the King. (1 KINGS UL, IV., 2 CHRON. 1.) 6 The Building of Solomon’s Temple—Preparations for it—Plan and Structure of the Temple—Internal Fittings—History of the Temple—Jewish Traditions. (1 KINGS V., VL, VIL 13-51, VII. 6-93 2 CHRON. I. ML, IV., V. 7-10). 7 Dedication of the Temple—When it took place—Connection with the Feast of Tabernacles—The Consecration Services—The King’s part in them —Symbolical meaning of the great Institutions in Israel—The Prayer of Consecration—Analogy to the Lord’s Prayer—The Consecration Thanksgiving and Offerings. (1 Kings vil1.; 2 CHRON. V.—VIL 11.) 8 The Surroundings of the Temple—Description of Jerusalem at the time of Solomon—The Palace of Solomon—Solomon’s fortified Cities— External relations of the Kingdom—Internal State—Trade—Wealth ——Luxury—tThe visit of the Queen of Sheba. (1 KinGs 1x., X.3 2 CHRON. VII. 11-1X. 28.) 9 Solomon’s Court—His Polygamy—Spread of Foreign Ideas In the Country —Imitation of Foreign Manners—-Growing Luxury—Solomon’s spiritual Decline— Judgment predicted—Solomon’s Enemies: Hadad, Rezon, Jeroboam—Causes of popular discontent—Ahijah’s prediction of the separation of the two Kingdoms—Jeroboam’s Rebellion and Flight into Egypt—Death of Solomon. (1 Kings x1.) 10 REHOBOAM, FIRST KING OF JUDAH. Family of Solomon—Age of Rehoboam—His Character—Religious History of Israel and Judah—The Assembly at Shechem—Jeroboam’s return from Egypt—Rehoboam’s Answer to the Deputies in Shechem—Revolt of the Ten Tribes—The Reigns of Rehoboam and of Jeroboam—Invasion of Judah by Shishak—Church and State in Israel—Rehoboam’s attempt to recover rule over the Ten Tribes—His Family History— Religious Decline in Israel, and its consequences. (x KINGS XII.3 XIV. 21-313 2 CHRON. X.=XIL.) 11 JEROBOAM, FIRST KING OF ISRAEL. Political Measures of Jeroboam—The Golden Calves—The New Priesthood and the New Festival—The Man of Elohitn from Judah—His Message and Sign—Jeroboam Struck by Jehovah and miraculously Restored —Invitation to the Man of Elohin—Heathen view of Miracles—The Old Prophet—Return of the Man of Elohim to Bethel—Judgment on his Disobedience—Character of the Old Prophet and of the Man of Elohim—Sickness of the Pious Child of Jeroboam—Mission of his Mother to Ahijah—Predicted Judgment— Death of the Child — Remaining Notices of Jeroboam. (x KINGS XII. 25=xXIV. 20.) 12 ABIJAH AND ASA (2ud & 3rd) KINGS OF JUDAH. Accession of Abijah—His tdolatry—War between Judah and Israe!—Abijah’s Address to Israel and Victory— deaths of Jeroboam and of Abijah— Accession of Asa—Religious Reformation in Judah—lInvasion by Zerah the Ethiopian—Victory of Zephathah—Azariah’s Message to the Army of Asa—Great Sacrificial Feast at Jerusalem—Renewal of the Covenant with Jehovah. (x Kincs xv. 1-153 2 CHRON. XIII.-XxvV.) 13 ASA (3rd) KING OF JUDAH—NADAB, BAASHA, ELAH, ZIMRI, TIBNI, AND OMRI (2zd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th) KINGS OF ISRAEL. Reign of Nadab—His Murder by Baasha—War between Judah and Israel— Baasha’s Alliance with Syria—Asa gains over Ben-hadad—Prophetic Message to Asa—Resentment of the King—Asa’s Religious Decline— Death of Asa—Death of Baasha—Reign of Elah—His Murder by Zimri —Omri dethrones Zimri—War between Omri and Tibni—Rebuilding of Samaria. (x KineGs xv. 16-xvI. 28; 2 CHRON. xvI.} 14 ASA AND JEHOSHAPHAT (3rd and 4th) KINGS OF JUDAH—AHAB (8th) KING OF ISRAEL. Accession of Ahab—Further Religious Decline in Israel—Political Relations between Israel and Judah—Accession of Jehoshaphat—Ahab’s marriage with Jezebel—The Worship of Baal and Astarte established in [srael— Character of Ahab—Religious Reforms in Judah—Jehoshaphat joins affinity with Ahab—Marriage of Jehoram with Athaliah, and its consequences. (1 KINGS XVI. 29-33; XXII. 41-44; 2 CHRON, XVII. 3 XVIII. 1, 2.) 15 AHAB, (8th) KING OF ISRAEL. Rebuilding of Jericho—The Mission of Elijah—His Character and Life— Elijah’s First Appearance—Parallelism with Noah, Moses, and John the Baptist—Elijah’s Message to King Ahab—Sojourn by the Brook Cherith—Elijah with the Widow of Sarepta—The Barrel of Meal wastes not, nor does the Cruse of Oi/ fail—Lessons of his Sajourn—Sickness and Death of the Widow’s Son—He is miraculously restored to life. (x KINGS XVI. 34-XVII.) Vol. 6: The History of Israel and Judah from the Reign of Ahab to the Decline of the Two Kingdoms Preface to Volume 6 Contents of Volume 6 1 Ahab, King of Israel. Three years’ Famine in Israel—Elijah meets Obadiah and Ahab—The Gathering on Mount Carmel—The Priests of Baal—Description of their Rites—The time of the Evening Sacrifice—Elijah prepares the Sacrifice —Elijah’s Prayer—The Answer by Fire—Israel’s Decision—Slaughter of the Priests of Baal—The Cloud not bigger than a Man’s Hand— Elijah runs before Ahab to Jezreel. (1 Kings xviii.) 2 Different Standpoint of the Old and the New Testament—Analogy between Elijah and John the Baptist–Jezebe! threatens Elijah’s life—The Prophet’s Flight— is Miraculous Provision—Analogy between Moses and Elijah—Elijah at Mount Horeb—What doest theu here, Elijah? —The Wind, the Earthquake, the Fire, and the Still Small Voice—The Divine Message and Assurance to Elijah—Call of Elisha. (1 Kings xix.) 3 General effect of Elijah’s Mission—The Two Expeditions of Syria and the Twofold Victory of Israel—Ahab releases Ben-hadad—The Prophet’s Denunciation and Message. (2 Kings xx.) 4 The Vineyard of Naboth—Murder of Naboth—The Divine Message by Elijah—Ahab’s Repentance. (2 Kincs xxi.) 5 Ahab and Ahaziah, (Eighth and Ninth) Kings of Israel. Jehoshaphat, (fourth) King of Judah. The Visit of Jehoshaphat to Ahab—The projected Expedition against Ramoth- Gilead—Flattering Predictions of False Prophets—Micalah—The Battle of Ramoth-Gilead—Death of Ahab. (2 Kings xxii. 2 CHRON. xviii.) 6 Jehoshaphat, (fourth) King of Judah. The Reproof and Prophecy of Jehu—Resumption of the Reformation in Judah—Institution of Judges and of a Supreme Court in Jerusalem— Incursion of the Moabites and their Confederates—National Fast and the Prayer of the King–Prophecy of Victory—The March to Tekoa— Destruction of the Enemy—tThe Valley of Berakhah—Return to Jerusalem and to the Temple. (2 CHRON. XIX, XX. 1-34.) 7 Jehoshaphat, (Fourth) King of Judah, Ahaziah and (Jehoram) Jorah, (Ninth and Tenth) Kings of Israel. The Joint Maritime Expedition to Ophir—Ahaziah’s Reign and Iliness—The proposed Inquiry of Baal-zebub—The Divine Message by Elijah—Attempts to Capture the Prophet, and their Result—Elijah appears before the King—Death of Ahaziah—Accession of Joram—The Ascent of Elijah —Elisha takes up his Mantle. (2 Kings xxii, 48—2 KINGS ii. 14; 2 CHRON. XX. 35-37). 8 Elisha the Prophet. Return to Jericho—Acknowledgment by the Sons of the Prophets—Healing of the Waters of Jericho—Judgment on the Young Men at Bethel— Settlement in Sam Read more

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