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 The Psalms for the Sons of Korah

THERE ARE A TOTAL OF 11 OF THEM IN THE OLD TESTAMENT BOOK OF PSALMS!

LET'S LEARN TOGETHER ...

I was sitting in the library of a liberal Seminary recently, scouring its contents for old-fashioned Bible Study material. I was really preaching through the Psalms of Degrees at that time. Then I saw the Book! A commentary on "The Psalms of the Sons of Korah." I was able to locate a used copy. That particular volume wasn't much help, but the Lord sure used it to get plenty of "ideas" flowing in my mind!

 

 A Preacher in his Study

 

 

 

 

 

 

LESSON 1, INTRODUCTION:

One of the most difficult aspects of studying the Book of Psalms is the unique way it's organized. Seldom does one see any continuity chapter after chapter. The Holy Spirit has chosen to give us these 150 precious Poems, Songs, Chapters of Worship ... without apparent order.

But there are a few beautiful exceptions.

Recently I've enjoyed preaching through the "Songs of Degrees," an unusual grouping of fifteen Psalms arranged in tandem! Psalms 120 through 134 are involved, likely revealing steps of spiritual growth for those who love the Lord, who follow Him.

Another example of a connected "group" in the Psalter is seen in Hebrew better than in English. Called the "Hallelujah" Psalms, numbers 146 through 150. Each of these begins and ends with the Hebrew verb "Hallelujah." In English that's "Praise ye the Lord."

Well, I've found yet another such "set." Not as compact, existing in two different locations, the Psalms "for the Sons of Korah" are so interesting.

It's not that these 11 Hymns are written "by" the Sons of Korah. Rather, they are "dedicated" to the Sons of Korah. Or at least that's the way I read them.

Probably the best way to approach this unique Unit of the Psalter is to analyze one or two of its "members."

That's what I plan to do. Beginning with Psalm 48 and likely including Psalm 84 as well. At least this way we shall have "sampled" this lovely Portion of Scripture.

These 11 Psalms are "held together" by their obvious "linkage" to Korah's Name. Psalms 42 (and 43 which seems to be an extension of 42) begin the Chorus. Then come Psalms 44 through 49, a total of seven (but eight if you count the unlabeled Psalm 43). Then they "skip" to Psalms 84 and 85, as well as 87 and 88. Strangely, Psalm 86 is just entitled "A Prayer of David." One of those organizational "riddles" I mentioned earlier.

They also have affinity by means of certain words and expression common to them, to them alone! Some teachers even believe the "geography" of these Psalms is particular.

We have much to learn. In fact, I really suspect the proverbial "surface" has never been even lightly "scratched" ... when it comes to these Psalms "for" the Sons of Korah.

But I love the way they begin!

Psalm 42, its very first verse and a half. "As the hart (deer) panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God."

How can any of us not say, "Amen" to these great longings?

"Thirsty" for God!

              --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

The Lord willing, more tomorrow.

 

 

LESSON 2, PSALM 48, VERSES 1-3:

Let's take a few Lessons and analyze Psalm 48. It's typical of these eleven or twelve Psalms dedicated to "the Sons of Korah." Only 14 verses long, it seems to concentrate on a City, Jerusalem I think.

PSALM 48

A Song and Psalm for the sons of Korah"

Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. 2 Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. 3 God is known in her palaces for a refuge. 4 For, lo, the kings were assembled, they passed by together. 5 They saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away. 6 Fear took hold upon them there, and pain, as of a woman in travail. 7 Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind. 8 As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah. 9 We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple. 10 According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness. 11 Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments. 12 Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof. 13 Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following. 14 For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.

These words were originally written to be sung, according to the superscript. The description written "above" verse one in our Bibles.

While some of the more liberal Bible expositors believe the Psalm depicts some other City than Jerusalem (Dan to the north is suggested by several) we conservatives hold to the view that Jerusalem is the focus. After all, based on verse 1 (Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness) the main city of worship in Israel was Jerusalem! In fact, twice in Psalm 48 is she called "the city of our God," here and in verse eight. And the Temple rested on Mount Zion in the "City of the great King." The word "great" used for God means "BIG!" While the adverb "greatly" means "exceedingly, much," a whole lot of praise is due His Name! Catholics believe "His Holiness" (their Pope) resides in Rome. Christians believe God (the perfection of Holiness, the definition of Holiness, the Originator of Holiness, Holiness Personified) lives in Jerusalem! (As well as in Heaven and everywhere else.) Remember that the Jews (their men) were required to go to Jerusalem (3 times a year) to worship the Lord, at the Feasts of Passover and Pentecost and Tabernacles.

In verse 2 some of Jerusalem's physical characteristics are mentioned. (Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King) The noun "situation" means "height." As in Psalm 125:2 (As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever) the City is said to be elevated. But the "joy" of the whole earth? But in Zechariah 12:2 God says: "Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about," but that's in the Tribulation. In the Millennium (especially) the City will be a "joy" to the whole earth! Jesus will be there! Reigning as King of all creation!

I am told Jerusalem, the best part of the City, is built on the "north" side of Mount Zion. But better yet, the expression "sides of the north" seems to suggest Heaven itself, that direction. I'm basing this conclusion on Ezekiel 14:13. And the "great King," while David might be in the peripheral view, is the Lord Jesus Himself, eventually anyway.

Then verse 3 (God is known in her palaces for a refuge) pictures God as a "Refuge," using the Hebrew noun "misgab," Found only 17 times in the Bible, it means "a high tower." A place of "defence." A "fort" in a safe, inaccessible place! Here those who live in "palaces" (also called "castle" once in the Old Testament) love and lean on the Lord too! The Nation's leaders worship our great God!

What a city is envisioned here.

What leaders are in view as well.

And what plans, mighty plans, God yet has for that place! I'm just going to call Jerusalem the future "capital of the world!" With a Supreme Leader wisely guiding the affairs of humanity!

Oh yes, I do mean Jesus.

            --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

Let's pray that America will some day again have leaders who flee to the Lord God Almighty as our Refuge!

 

 

LESSON 3, PSALM 48, VERSES 4-6:

Today we are going to notice a "slice" of Psalm 48. A Psalm "for the sons of Korah." It seems to me, the whole Poem, to be centered around the theme of a City! Jerusalem, to be precise.

A City so awesome, so impressive, so "fearful" to her enemies that they (her attackers) actually "flee" from her!

Let me show you. "For, lo, the kings were assembled, they passed by together. They saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away. Fear took hold upon them there, and pain, as of a woman in travail." Psalm 48:3-6, our Text.

The "it" these Kings saw is Jerusalem. Based on the Psalm's initial paragraph anyway, verses 1-3. It is characterized as the "City of the great King." It too is "beautifully situated" at "Mount Zion!" Yes, this is Jerusalem, folks.

I think here (in these 3 verses) "history" is summarized. The "spirit" of our Text has been repeated time and time again throughout the ages.

Kings, enemies, have "assembled" against Jerusalem, against God's people. As described here, this is an evil confederacy! But these foes did not stay to attack the City! They "passed by," using "abar" in Hebrew, "went back" home in reality!

The very sight of the City was "amazing," with "marvelling" here meaning "astonished, astounded." Reminds me of verse 2, "beautiful for situation." They admired God's Land.

But then immediately they "were troubled!" Apparently great fear comes when one attacks God's property! "Bahal" means "disturbed, alarmed, affrighted, thrust out!" And "hasted away" means "to flee," often "with trembling!"

"For, lo, the kings were assembled, they passed by together. They saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away. Fear took hold upon them there, and pain, as of a woman in travail."

The noun for "fear" is "raad," only found 6 times in the entire Old Testament! It is from a root word meaning "to quake, to shake, to shudder violently!" And this aura of "panic" is said to have "taken hold" of them. "Achaz" means "to grasp, to seize, to catch," very graphic!

Then they "hurt," with "pain!" Where "chiyl" means "agony, sorrow, writhing, anguish!" As a "woman in travail." And the word so translated means "bringing forth" a baby!

Again and again God has miraculously protected His people, His Capital City!

In Job 15 Eliphaz says, echoing our theme today: "The wicked man travaileth with pain all his days, and the number of years is hidden to the oppressor. A dreadful sound is in his ears: in prosperity the destroyer shall come upon him. He believeth not that he shall return out of darkness, and he is waited for of the sword." Doomed, and they know it! Fearful!

This is what our Text is portraying.

"Safety is of the Lord!" So says Proverbs 21:31, just more completely. "The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD."

Yes, Jerusalem is special!

At least, I know of no Psalm written in praise of Atlanta, or New York or Houston! Or London or Moscow or Athens! Or folks, of even Rome!

And when our Lord Jesus was on earth, He too loved this City! He wept over her and His Words are recorded in the Bible. "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" Matthew 23:37

This City so very important, her welfare, that we Christians are admonished: "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee." Psalm 122:6, a "blessing" for just praying for that unique Metropolis!

Wow!

             --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 4, PSALM 48, VERSE 7:

Does God "control" the weather?

The answer to that query could involve a whole book, I suppose. Just giving Bible illustrations of such events. But today I need to confine myself to the "weather" and one single verse, if possible.

Psalm 48:7 says, directly to God: "Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind." And surprisingly, this statement is made in a Chapter about the City of Jerusalem! In a Hymn dedicated to "the sons of Korah!"

So far, the whole Psalm has praised a City, Jerusalem. Where worship takes place, somehow involving these men, these specific "sons of Korah." For example: "Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God (Jerusalem), in the mountain of his holiness. Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion (The Temple), on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. God is known in her palaces (David's Residence) for a refuge." Psalm 48:1-3

Then the "defense" of that City becomes the focus. "For, lo, the kings were assembled, they passed by together. They saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away. Fear took hold upon them there, and pain, as of a woman in travail." Psalm 48:4-6, as a writer quipped yesterday. "They came. They saw. But they did NOT conquer!" Look, it's obvious that even a confederacy of Kings, a conglomerate of enemies, can NOT overrun Jerusalem, apart from God's allowing such an event. (He did in 586 BC and again in 70 AD, but because of the flagrant, rebellious sins of the Jewish people.)

Then, in this context, verse 7 speaks to our hearts. Still, I think, continuing the theme of Divine Protection. "Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind." Psalm 48:7

"Tarshish" here must be understood as a foreign land. Some kingdom "at war" with the Jews. Remember Jonah and Tarshish? It's some commercial center of the day, its name meaning "yellow jasper." Some type of precious metal, clearly. The older commentators suggest "Spain" here, others "England." But does it matter?

They hate Israel. And they amass a fleet of warships and sail against her. And they are destroyed, by Almighty God! "Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind." The verb "breaketh" is "shabar," meaning "to crush" in pieces. Not much left of this navy!

"Ships" is a simple little noun, spelled "aniyah," ultimately derived from "anah," meaning "to meet, to encounter, to seek a quarrel!" (See Second Kings 5:7, for that last, underlined definition.) Here's a warmongering armada. But slated for annihilation. They attacked the wrong people!

I realize Jerusalem is not on the coast, folks. But other key cities of Israel might be in view as well. Then again, this navy might just be a "symbol" of any army that would accost God's Chosen People, the Israelites.

Also the Psalmist might be illustrating here, teaching a general principle. IF God can destroy whole navies, then He can certainly protect His people. In any city, anywhere.

Yet more, to spiritualize the passage a bit, if we trust in the money, the materials, the wealth this world can "import" into our lives. God can also destroy those vehicles as well! He, our Lord, demands (and deserves) all our love. Using the ships now as a "types" of financial avenues of pleasure.

By the way, the expression "ships of Tarshish" might "date" the Psalm as well. To the time of Solomon. "And all the drinking vessels of king Solomon were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold: none were of silver; it was not any thing accounted of in the days of Solomon. For the king's ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks." Second Chronicles 9:20-21

Here's another quote, further adding "local color" to our Text. "And after this did Jehoshaphat king of Judah join himself with Ahaziah king of Israel, who did very wickedly. And he joined himself with him to make ships to go to Tarshish: and they made the ships in Eziongeber. Then Eliezer the son of Dodavah of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, Because thou hast joined thyself with Ahaziah, the LORD hath broken thy works. And the ships were broken, that they were not able to go to Tarshish." Second Chronicles 20:35-37, sound "forbidding" really!

Wow!

But quickly now, HOW did God "break" those strong ships? Back to Psalm 48, verse number 7. "Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind."

With the "wind!"

Can God control the wind?

He did at the Exodus! "And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided." Exodus 14:21

And Isaiah 28:7 comes close to calling the wind God's property! "He (the Lord) stayeth His rough wind in the day of the east wind."

The words "ruach" (in Hebrew) and "pneuma" (in Greek) are both used of the SPIRIT of God. And both mean "wind!"

God seems to imply that the "east wind" is particularly harsh, judging and bitter! "I (the Lord) will scatter them as with an east wind before the enemy; I will shew them the back, and not the face, in the day of their calamity." Jeremiah 18:17

And in Ezekiel 27:26, with God again controlling the winds, the wicked City of Tyre is judged, her money grabbing ships are. "Thy rowers have brought thee into great waters: the east wind hath broken thee in the midst of the seas."

Listen to this "snippet" from Hosea 13:15 as well. "An east wind shall come, the wind of the LORD shall come up from the wilderness."

Proof!

God does mandate the wind!

And when Jesus came, He being God the Son, He too was "Master" of the winds! "But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!" Matthew 8:27

We've been all over the Bible today it seems. And our "launching pad" was one little Psalm 48 verse. "Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind."

Indeed, He does.

                  --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 5, PSALM 48, VERSE 8:

I've thought and prayed and come to this conclusion. Though only one commentary in the scarce literature about this family of Psalms (those written "for the Sons of Korah") even "hints" at what I'm about to say.

It looks like, at least with some of these 11 or 12 Chapters of Scripture, there's a "travel" pattern built into the series. These people just may be "pilgrims" on their way to worship God, maybe at Passover ("Unleavened Bread") or Pentecost ("Feast of Weeks") or Tabernacles. As they were commanded in Deuteronomy 16:16-17. "Three times in a year shall all thy males appear before the LORD thy God in the place which he shall choose; in the feast of unleavened bread, and in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles: and they shall not appear before the LORD empty. Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD thy God which he hath given thee."

There seems to be some sort of (even if loosely so) a progression in these Psalms. This makes them somewhat like the "Songs of Degrees," Psalms 120-134.

Having said that, specifically notice today's Verse in Psalm 48, verse 8. "As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah."

Doesn't this, as has most of the Psalm thus far, present Jerusalem in a wonderfully good light? "The City of the Lord of Hosts." Then "the City of our God." A place "God will establish for ever!"

They're marching to "Zion," folks!

To worship and adore their God!

Our God!

"As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah."

They have "heard" of the place! Personally I heard so much and even read so much about ... New York City. Now I've been able to go there a few times. I think it's one of the premier Cities of all the earth!

But my experience is nothing compared to what a godly Jew feels toward Jerusalem. This verse is typical: "If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy." Wow, Psalm 137:5-6.

They've heard! "Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah." Psalm 87:3, word for word.

But according to verse 8 they have also now "seen!" The verb "raah" used here means they "carefully beheld" (same word used of a shepherd "watching" over his flock). They "looked intently" on the Metropolis!

They heard.

They came.

They saw.

And they worshipped!

Whom did they so adore?

"The Lord of Hosts," in Hebrew "Jehovah Tzsaba," the "Lord of the armies" literally! Either "angels" or warring, glorified "saints!" Jesus is Commander-in-Chief!"

Furthermore, God "owns" Jerusalem, to the Old Testament mind. "As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the Lord of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah." The preposition "of" (here found twice) suggests God is the Creator and Protector and Deed Holder to the Place! The "Possessor!"

In one sense God owns the whole earth, too! Psalm 24:1 still thunders: "The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein." Amen!

Then not only the "history" of Jerusalem is remarkable. Also her "future!" Still today's verse, Psalm 48:8. "God will establish it forever. Selah."

"Establish" translates "kun" in Hebrew, "to make firm, to stablilize, to cause to endure!" A guarantee from Almighty God, about a municipality's durability, this special Municipality!

Then "for ever" is "ad olam" (again, Hebrew) as the Psalmist would have written it. It means "to everlasting!" Literally, "to the point at which one can see no further!" Beyond imagination, that long!

I do not know how long San Francisco will exist. Or Los Angeles. But I do know Jerusalem is eternal! She will enjoy life both on this earth, and I suggest, on the "new earth" as well. I speak in terms of Isaiah 65:17 and Isaiah 66:22. As well as Revelation 21:1. "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea."

Wow!

Hats off ... to Jerusalem!

The Place where God was worshipped, the Place God abode ... in those times long ago. Where His Temple rested. Where His Glory hovered!

                --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

By the way, and this is a big "jump," if you are saved in this Age of God's Grace, in this "Church" dispensation, God the Holy Spirit has made your "body" into a temple! He lives inside you! Paul informs us: "Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own. For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." First Corinthians 6:19-20, surely enough has been said!

 

 

LESSON 6, PSALM 48, VERSE 9, THAT TO "THINK" AT CHURCH:

Today's Psalm 48 Verse is short, one of the most succinct in the whole Chapter. Here it is in the King James Version: "We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple." Psalm 48:9

This adds another degree of intensity to the spirit of worship exhibited in this majestic little Composition. Already the Psalmist has exclaimed, "Great is the Lord." And also "greatly to be praised!" Even the City where God is (primarily) worshipped is included in the exaltation, Jerusalem, "the city of our God" and "beautiful for situation!"

So it's quite fitting that their proper "attitude," their prevalent mental "inclination" be indicated as well. In other words, we are being told what the Jews "thought" when they so worshipped the Lord. When they attended the great Festivals, Feasts, worship weeks at the Temple.

Again, "We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple."

"What to think at Church," what an idea!

Solomon in Ecclesiastes had a suggestion. "Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil. Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few." Ecclesiastes 5:1-2

Paul too indirectly addresses the issue. "Be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:18-21

Paul definitely taught us how NOT to do it! "When ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it." First Corinthians 11:18, shameful!

Back to the right way, based on data given the Sons of Korah, Psalm 48 style. "We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple."

The verb rendered "have thought" here is "damah." Six times (out of 29) it is translated with the "thought" motif. But 14 times in the Old Testament it is expressed "like" and 5 more times "liken!" Once it's "compared." Once more it's "devised!"

In other words, we have "blended" our minds, become "alike" in thought! It's sort of the "one mind" and "one accord" attitude of the New Testament!

Then, God's "lovingkindness" is a explication of the Hebrew noun "chesed." Pronounced "kheh-sed'," the textbooks say.

It means God's "goodness," His "Mercy" or great "favor!" I tell folks it's a "first cousin" to the New Testament word "Grace!" Usually with the idea of Someone Big being sweet and gentle to someone little! Importance loving insignificance!

Wow!

At Church ... ponder God's Goodness to you!

"In the midst of the Temple," in all you do at the House of God.

The Bible ... telling me how to think!

Yes!

Again, Paul did, unashamedly. "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Philippians 4:8

And our Lord is astounded that some men do not think of Him more! "The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts." Psalm 10:4, not in "all His thoughts."

This is an amazing verse, folks.

It sets an example for each of us to emulate. "We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple." Practice this golden bit of advice next time you're in Church.

Amen.

              --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 7, PSALM 48, VERSE 10:

It's about worship, today's Psalm 48 verse. Almost as if the Psalm has been "building," reaching a "climax." I do believe that a group of Israelites, in this 14 verse chapter, has been en route to Jerusalem, marching upward to the City of God.

Why?

To worship Him!

Thus, having safely arrived and having observed the beauties of the surroundings (primarily the City herself), they burst into loquacious worship! "According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness." Psalm 48:10

God's "praise," in Hebrew spelled "tehillah," means "song, hymn, fame, renown, glory," an expression of amazement at the Person and Work of Almighty God! "Tehillah" is derived from the verb "halal," which means "to shine, to flash forth light!"

The idea here, and it's translated this way in the Bible too, is "celebration!" Actually "boasting," bragging, on the One you love!

They've come to magnify and extol their God!

In His City, Jerusalem.

In His House, the Temple.

And their praise will not merely be based on emotion, either. But on fact, on the "Name" of God!

The Hebrew noun for "name" is "shem," meaning "reputation, fame," being derived from "sum," a little verb meaning "set in place, appointed, fixed, conspicuous!" The Name of God!

In Scripture He is called by a number of Names, too. Each (Jehovah, Elohim, Adonai, and many more) suggests another beautiful Attribute of our Heavenly Father.

"According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness."

I think they're saying that God is "true" to His Name!

Then God's "Strength" (the implication of His "Right Hand") will be seen as "full of Righteousness!" This is the only time in all the Bible that this precise "string" of words is found, "full of righteousness." Here "full" means to the point of "overflowing!"

I'm writing this particular Lesson an a Saturday morning. Go to Church tomorrow and praise God's Name! Think of His Character and His Mighty Works and glorify Him!

Then brag on Him because He has never, not once, done anything wrong! He is full of Rightness!

"Righteousness" here means "justice."

By God's Own Standard too, because He is above all! He is the "Only" God, the only True God! Isaiah 45:5 says so, among other places in Scripture. "I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me."

Amen!

                 --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

Stop right now, and tell Him, God in Heaven, that you too love Him and thank Him for His Truth and Righteousness and Salvation! You will be enacting the spirit of our powerful little verse today!

 

 

LESSON 8, PSALM 48, VERSE 11, GOD'S JUDGMENTS:

I'm not sure I've ever seen a Psalm that places any more detail on a "location." On a city, the City of Jerusalem. Including today's verse, Psalm 48:11. "Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments." The "judgments" being mentioned here belong to the Lord, of course.

"Mount Zion" is a synonym for that holy place, earlier in the Psalm called "the City of our God." Then "the mountain of His Holiness." Plus, "the joy of the whole earth." Also, "the city of the great King!" Again, it's Jerusalem!

By the way, "Zion" in Hebrew ("tzsiyon") means "parched, dry place!" As if in the desert. But God has taken this geographical location and transformed her into a place of beauty! Isaiah 35:1-2 comes to mind. "The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing." Yes, today Jerusalem is no longer barren!

That's the same thing that happens to us when we are "saved!" Once dead, we now live. Once sterile, we now bear fruit! One dry, we now bubble with the flowing Presence of the Holy Spirit!

In today's verse this City is "rejoicing!" It means she is "glad, merry." If cities can "mourn" their dead (as in war) so can they rejoice (in good times). A place that has been attacked so many times (and will yet again, more than once apparently) ... will ultimately be the happiest place on earth! In the universe! Because of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our verse for today again: "Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments."

Now in mid-verse it appears that the city is being equated with her people. What is a city, socially speaking, other than her citizens anyway? A pair of parallel lines are written. "Let Mount Zion rejoice." Then the twin sentence, "Let the daughters of Judah be glad." But "be glad" (in Hebrew "giyl") really pictures someone "spinning round and round!" That emotionally happy!

But here, in one English sentence, what has caused such commotion, such delight, such joy? "Because of Thy (God's) righteous judgments!" Because the Lord has dealt correctly with sin and wickedness! Because God has rewarded proper living!

Back in verse 9 we delighted in God's "lovingkindness!" But to be balanced, God is not merely "kind." He is also "just," One Who punishes (severely) sin! Hence verse eleven's "judgments."

Similarly linking these two traits of the Almighty, Romans 11:22 says: "Behold therefore the goodness (as in His lovingkindness) and severity (as in His judgments) of God." Amazing!

"Judgments" such as those back in verses 4-7 of our Text, of Psalm 48. "For, lo, the kings (of the earth) were assembled, they passed by together. They saw it (Jerusalem), and so they marvelled. They were troubled, and hasted away. Fear took hold upon them there, and pain, as of a woman in travail. Thou (Lord) breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind."

Armies obviously came to attack, but were routed by angelically induced fear (apparently) and then whole navies decimated by God's "east wind!"

Judgment!

I understand praising God's lovingkindness!

But His times of wrath too?

Yes, especially when He annihilates the Enemy of the Jews!

Which He will ultimately do, at Armageddon!

"Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments." Amen!

Another verse about God's judgments comes to  mind. "Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O LORD." Psalm 36:6, too "deep" to understand sometimes! Here God is every bit as "righteous" as He is filled with "judgment!" He does no wrong!

Yes, the most often occurring adjective in all the Bible in reference to God's "judgments" is "righteous!" Nearly a dozen times!

It's acceptable, maybe even an act of worship, to delight in God's judgments! As in Psalm 97:8-9. "Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD. For thou, LORD, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods."

Wow!

I'm beginning to really love Psalm 48, appreciating it more than ever. As a part of the "Korah" collection, it certainly does adore God's amazing Grace. Remember that the sons of Korah (Numbers 16) were not slain with their rebellious father when he rebelled against Moses! They were somehow (inexplicable) spared! And thereafter each time they are mentioned in Scripture ... looks like they are trophies of God's Grace!

Praise the Lord!

            --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 9, PSALM 48, VERSES 12-13, SAFETY:

The "physical aspects" of a city!

Today's Text, two verses from Psalm 48, describe Jerusalem (around 1000 BC) in detail! Except in reference to her "towers" and "bulwarks." (Nehemiah chapter 3 lists and discusses the City's ten "gates!")

Let me show you. "Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof. Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following." Psalm 48:12-13

Beginning with the (Hebrew) imperative verb "sabab" (not "halak" as one might suspect), the people are expected (instructed, mandated) to "encircle" the City, admiring her beauty!

Remember, "Zion" is often a loose synonym for the whole metropolis, all of Jerusalem.

Much like the Jewish army (in Joshua chapter 6) "marched around" Jericho again and again (except in war) ... the Israelites are now asked to "march around" her (but in admiration and patriotic glee). In astonishment!

The verb "go about" is "naqaph," rare in the Old Testament (only 19 times total) and often meaning "to inclose, to compass, to go around."

"Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof. Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following."

Continuing a remarkable string of five imperatives, the verb "tell" follows. Which is "saphar," 23 times translated "to number" in the Bible! In other words, "count" the fortifications of Jerusalem! Look how well defended she is! The noun "towers" translates "migdal," used this exact way (as "towers") 47 out of 50 times in Scripture. Once it's rendered as "castles!" Likely "high places," things (protrusions) built on top of the city walls, really. Of course these "towers" are manned by soldiers, constantly. "Safety" is the underlying theme here.

Then "mark" her bulwarks. "Shiyth" means "to set" usually, but twice it is translated "regard," meaning "to think upon" something or even on a group of things. Perhaps even considering their permanence. Their having been "appointed" or "ordained" by God!

"Bulwarks," the noun "cheylah" in Hebrew (only found here in all the Bible, a true "hapax legomenon"), means a "strong place" (for the army to defend the city). Extra thick spots in the city's walls, or even more highly raised locations (for archers to mount and shoot down on an approaching enemy!)

Stretching the available synonyms, "consider" is the Hebrew verb "pasag" (yet another hapax legomenon) perhaps meaning "to inspect." But this time it's not military objects, places of defense, but her "palaces" in view!

Again our text: "Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof. Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following." 

The noun (used 32 times in God's Word) here rendered "palaces" (spelled "armon") means "castles" once, in Proverbs 18:19. Still, these are spacious dwellings are built on top of the city walls, and are easily converted to military outposts if necessary!

Jerusalem, heavily fortified!

Heavily armed!

Protected!

Glorious!

So beautiful, so meaningful, so impressive ... future generations are to be told of her beauty and might!  "That ye may tell it to the generation following." To your children and grandchildren!

Wow!

Now if the "security" of Jerusalem be "spiritualized" just a bit (not to be done in reference to prophecy) ... these verses could "hint" at the same "security" we Believers enjoy in our "Zion." In our place of worship! In our "position" in Christ Jesus!

Eternally secure, I mean.

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand." Jesus, in John 10:27-29. More "protected" than any set of "towers" can make you!

Romans 8:35-36 poses a question. "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?" Then immediately follows the answer. "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Amen!

Secure!

Protected by the God Who saved us!

                    --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 10, PSALM 48, VERSE 14:

This Lesson reaches the final verse of Psalm 48, but not the final thoughts about the Sons of Korah. In fact, we may analyze yet another Psalm dedicated to this group of men.

But first, today's verse: "For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death." Psalm 48:14, the apex, the high point, of the whole Poem.

"This God ..."

The God Who owns that City, Jerusalem, the grand subject of Psalm 48.

The God Who is worshipped there!

The God Whose Name will be associated with Jerusalem for ever! "And the name of the city from that day shall be, The LORD is there." Ezekiel 48:35

The God Who can dispel and defeat armies!

The God Who is worthy to be praised!

The God Who is kind!

The God Who is Righteous! "In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely: and this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The LORD our righteousness." Jeremiah 31:16

The God Who will judge the whole earth!

(Each of the foregoing traits of God is enumerated in Psalm 48. I've merely summarized the highlights.)

Now our verse again, Psalm 48:14. "For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death." 

This God will exist "for ever and ever," being eternal! In Hebrew "olam le ad" means "from one point of eternity continuing to perpetuity!" Never ending! Into infinity! Without cessation!

And He will be "our" God too, Israel professes!

"And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever." Exodus 3:15

Yes, a "personal" God, just as Jesus offers "personal" salvation to people yet today, through His shed Blood on the Cross of Calvary.

Look at the level of commitment here! "For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death." 

The noun "guide" is "nahag," meaning "one who drives!" One who "leads." At times it can mean "one who carries!" And once in the King James Version, "one who brings in!"

Study the word "guide" in the Bible, as it's associated with God. Many times He is referenced this way. As in Psalm 31:3. "For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me."

How long will He "guide" us! "For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death."  

In Hebrew "al muth."

Where "al" is the preposition, "unto" but in an "upward" direction! Heavenward, in reality!

And "muth," the noun, literally means "death," occurring hundreds of times this way in Scripture.

God will not leave us "alone," even when we die! He will "guide" us through that valley too! Yes, Psalm 23:4 comes to mind. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me." The Lord as our Shepherd!

The sons of Korah, to whom this Psalm is dedicated, know about death. Their father died tragically and needlessly at the Hands of a righteous God. The earth "swallowed" him alive, for the sin of rebellion!

"And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto Korah, and all their goods." Numbers 16:32

But the "sons" were spared!

And when death finally comes their way, to the boys, God will be their Comfort and Guide and yes ... Companion!

Folks, that's Grace!

              --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

This too, there's not a reason in the world why we cannot claim this verse in our lives. "For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death." 

Amen.

 

 

LESSON 11, PSALMS FOR THE SONS OF KORAH, MORE TO COME:

Today we're at "intermission" or perhaps "halftime" in our journey through the Psalms labeled "for the Sons of Korah." We now look toward Psalms 84, 85, 87 and 88. I prayerfully intend to choose one of these and analyze it verse by verse.

These Psalms are unique, mysterious, and beautiful as well! If I had to state a recurring theme it would be this: Jerusalem! Or maybe better yet, Worship, which most purely occurred in Jerusalem back in those days.

For example, Psalm 87 is geographically specific. Look at it with me a moment. I am going to capitalize every phrase or clause that speaks of Jerusalem, that place.

A Psalm or Song for the sons of Korah

His foundation is in the holy mountains. 2 The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. 3 Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah. 4 I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there. 5 And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her. 6 The LORD shall count, when he writeth up the people, that this man was born there. Selah. 7 As well the singers as the players on instruments shall be there: all my springs are in thee.

If this is not a poem of praise ... to a City, because that City is the place where God has established his House ... then I am badly mistaken!

Such is typical for the Psalms "for the Son of Korah." Psalm 84 is another such specimen, divinely inspired of God. Written by the Holy Spirit!

Tomorrow, the Lord willing, we'll begin a verse-by-verse trek through Psalm 84, every one of its 12 verses. The trait I've just shown you in Psalm 87 will continue there as well.

I'm praying many of you will join us.

Let's also learn more about these Sons!

Living illustrations of the Grace of God, they are!

But really, we are too!

              --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

Until tomorrow!

 

 

LESSON 12, PSALM 84, INTRODUCTION:

Two thoughts this morning.

Concerning one of the exemplary Psalms written "for the sons of Korah." Psalm 84 contains both traits that have appeared and reappeared through this specific corpus of literature.

The first of the characteristics is the emphasis on geography. The focus on a City, I believe Jerusalem. On the Temple there where God has chosen to locate His House.

The second feature is the overarching theme of worship! Adoration of Almighty God.

Now, prior to our discussing the Psalm in some detail, let me show you these two patterns as visible in the Text. I'm underlining the geography and capitalizing the worship motifs.

Psalm 84

To the chief Musician upon Gittith, a Psalm for the sons of Korah

How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts! 2 My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God. 3 Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God. 4 Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah. 5 Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them. 6 Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools. 7 They go from strength to strength, every one of them in Zion appeareth before God. 8 O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah. 9 Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed. 10 For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. 11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. 12 O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.

 

This should be an exciting "trip." Twelve Verses of inspired Text, inerrant as well, mistake free!

By the way, the noun "Gittith," used in the title, the superscript, of the Psalm means "wine press" in Hebrew. Likely this at least indicates the Passage was sung and incorporated into the worship services of Israel ... during the Fall of the year, when the grapes were being harvested. That's when the sine presses were in use!

That would be during the Feast of Tabernacles. Which was a celebration of the harvest, of God's goodness in abundant crops! Also Tabernacles looks forward, I think, to the Second Coming of Jesus. To the Millennium, when the crops will be more plenteous than ever!

Tomorrow, Lord willing, more.

In the meantime, read Psalm 84 carefully, more than once if possible. Record it and let your own voice saturate you in its beautiful truths! That's what I plan to do too.

                 --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 13, PSALM 84, VERSE 1:

Here's a short word-for-word "quote" from an old commentary on Psalm 84. I thought it was well worth sharing. "It matters little when this Psalm was written, or by whom; for our part it exhales to us a Davidic perfume, it smells of the mountain heather and the lone places of the wilderness, where King David must have often lodged during his many wars. This sacred ode is one of the choicest of the collection; it has a holy radiance about it, entitling it to be called The Pearl of Psalms."  

The first verse beautifully reads: "How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts!" Psalm 84:1, undoubted uttered by a thrilled worshipper as he or she looked upon the Temple in Jerusalem! Maybe for the very first time, maybe after a lifetime of pilgrimages to that unique Place.

The noun "tabernacles" translates the Hebrew word "mishkan." It basically means "a dwelling place." Really it's derived from the word "shakan," meaning "to dwell continually." And this is the root for the Old Testament concept "Shekinah Glory!"

The Glory Cloud of God Almighty, indicating His Presence, that hovered over the Tabernacle and Temple, that led the Jews through the vast wilderness all those years!

God's "tabernacles!"

As to the plural number? Both in English and Hebrew, likely a reference to the Outer Court and Inner Court! Or the Holy Place and the ineffable Holy of Holies!

Yes, "How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts!" 

The adjective "amiable" is "yediyd," very unusual! Only found 9 times in the whole Bible. It's from the same root as the main Hebrew word for "love," spelled "dod." It's from a semantic background meaning "to boil!" Fervent love! Red-hot for the Lord God Who saved us!

And the vocative, "Lord of Hosts" implies God as a Warrior! As the General of all the forces of Heaven! In classic Exodus 15:3 style. "The LORD is a man of war: the LORD is his name."

Wow!

Next time you go to Church, though obviously in a lesser sense than our Text specifies, think of God's House there where you worship as a "special" place.

As being lovely, simply for the fact it represents a meeting place for the children of God in your area.

One more time, in amazement, wonder, excitement! "How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts!"  

Amen!

             --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 14, PSALM 84, VERSE 2:

I really need to cover more than one verse a day! But Psalm 84:2 is too "sweet" to slight in any way.

"My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God."

The Psalmist is "hungry" to worship His Lord! He had other "meat" to eat, as did His Lord years later, in John 4:32.

Three verbs adorn this sentence, each written in a different "stem" in Hebrew. "Longeth" is a "niphal," simply meaning that it's "passive" in voice. "Fainteth" is in the more common "qal" stem, just indicating "active" voice. And "crieth out" is a "piel" verb, meaning "intensive" or "intentional" action.

Wow, what variety!

Bringing every possible feeling and action and human trait to Almighty God, worshipping truly in spirit and truth!

"My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God." Again, Psalm 84:2

"To long" ("kasaph") means "to yearn." To desire something so strongly some might interpret it as greed! "To crave deeply!"

"Fainteth" translates "kalal" in Hebrew, meaning "to spend up" something, here physical strength! "Exhausted," really.

And "crieth out" is "ranan," here suggesting "to shout out loud!" Although the word is most often translated either "sing" or "rejoice" in the Old Testament! Of its 52 occurrences.

Here too the "courts" of the Lord (meaning an "enclosure" or even a small "village") are equated to "the Living God" Himself! He abides at His House, in His Courts! This is Old Testament typology again.

To place this "picture" in current Christian life, it depicts a Believer, man or woman, "in love" with God, eager to worship! Faithful to Church!

This kind of fervor, linked to the Sons of Korah, speaks well of their testimony. But more about them later.

What about your testimony? And mine? When it comes to "hunger" for the House of God? To genuine "determination" based on "desire" ... in reference to adoring the One Who saved us?

One more time. "My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God."

Amen!

               --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

Also see the areas of life, the totality of self, involved in this "lust" (used in a good sense, that level of intensity) to worship God. One's "soul" and "heart" and "flesh" as well! Totally involved!

 

 

LESSON 15, PSALM 84, VERSE 3:

What a pretty little verse is before us today! Psalm 84:3, which again paints an inviting picture of worship at the House of God.

And it involves a little animal too!

"Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God." Psalm 84:3

Admiration for a bird!

One that lives around the Tabernacle, the Temple of Israel!

The noun "sparrow" is "tzsippor" in Hebrew, translated "bird" 32 of its 40 appearances in Scripture. "Fowl" 6 more times and "sparrow" only 2 times. Any little flying bird may be indicated, one that "sings" no doubt!

The noun "house" is "bayith," a "dwelling." Or "home." It's translated "family" 3 times as well! The verb "hath found" hints at a casual discovery, something that "befell" the little bird. Blessed be the day I found God's House!

Then the noun "swallow" is "deror," a rare word, used only twice in all the Bible! From an seldom used root meaning "to move rapidly!" To be at "liberty!"

The noun "nest" is "qen," meaning a "room" also. "To lay" (spelled "shiyth") means "to put, to set," to fix in place. Rearing the babies at God's House, admirable indeed!

The word "young" involves a verb meaning "to shoot out, to break through," as when the egg shell is broken at the birth of these little chicks!

Truthfully, the author of this Psalm (David I like to think, though it's really anonymous) wants to be in Jerusalem, at the Place of worship, and cannot. Maybe he was with the Jewish army at war. Maybe he was fleeing from Saul! Perhaps a younger man watching the sheep! So he at least praises the little birds who can "fly" to that City and flit around God's Temple, raising their families there!

"Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God."

The "House" of God is now equated to the "Altars" of God! There were two of them, the Brass Altar at the entrance to the Tabernacle. And the Golden Altar in the Holy Place. Both picture Jesus! As human (both structures were made of wood) yet Divine (overlaid with precious metals).

And what an array of names for our Master, Creator, Redeemer! He is here "Lord of Hosts" and "King" and also "God!"

"Lord of Hosts" means "Master of the armies" too! Another reason I wonder if the writer is a man of war!

And "King" makes me imagine that maybe an earthly king (David) is adoring the Heavenly King, our Almighty God!

And "God, "spelled "elohiym," suggests a Triune God!

Wow, what theology is embedded here!

I read earlier today that in many ancient temples ... birds were protected. If they lived there they must be allowed safety!

We too can flee into the Arms of a loving God ... and be eternally secure!

By the way, "altar" comes from a Hebrew word meaning "to slaughter, to kill, to sacrifice!"

All this grace, all this beauty, all this safety, all this good will, because of the Blood of the Lamb of God! Voluntarily shed for us at the Altar of Calvary!

"Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God." 

Amen!

             --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 16, PSALM 84, VERSES 4 AND 5:

Today's Lesson centers around the word "blessed." As in Psalm 84:4-5. "Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah. Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them."

In Hebrew the concept of "blessedness" usually is expressed by the word "esher." It basically means "happy," because God has "smiled" upon you. But "esher" is derived from a root word, "ashar," which means "to go straight, to advance, to make progress!" Sounds like, Biblically speaking, one can only be "happy" as he or she "walks right in the Eyes of God!"

Wow!

Our two verses today are "parallel," as it much of Hebrew poetry. This man is "blessed" for two reasons. First, because he dwells in God's House. Second, because his strength comes from God. He is not self-sufficient, independent to the point of rebellion.

To "dwell" in God's House, in the Jewish Tabernacle or Temple, means "to abide" there. To "remain," not being an "in and out" kind of person. Permanence, as in Psalm 23:6. "And I will dwell in the House of the Lord for ever."

And look at the by-product of dwelling in God's House, "They will be still praising thee." Now we have a blended state of blessedness and happiness for sure! Here "praising" translates "halal," Hebrew for "boasting" in God! Delighting in Him! Bragging on the Lord!

"Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah. Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them."

"Selah" is probably a musical indicator, many of these poems being written for their choir to sing as Israel worshipped. It's meaning, "to pause." Stop and think, in other words. It's called a "rest" by the song leader.

The noun "strength" is spelled "oz." It means "might, power, boldness!" Its verbal heritage hints at being "victor" in a contest! Having prevailed in battle! Hardened for war!

The last clause of verse 5, however, is enigmatic. "In whose heart are the ways of them." The only help I can offer is to define the noun "ways." It's certainly not the usual word for a "way." Yes, "mesillah" means "a "highway." It is birthed from a verb, "salal," meaning "to raise up, exalt, to life." Hinting at a roadway that is built or paved higher than the ground itself.

This man, then is on a journey! It's in his heart to travel ... to Jerusalem! To God's House! To worship His Lord! He's a pilgrim ... a stranger ... heading for the City of God!

Now, to me anyway, things seem clearer.

This is as lovely a couplet of worship verses as exists in all the Old Testament. Read and ponder them one more time. "Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah. Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them."

It might not hurt to write them on a 3x5 card and memorize them. Have the family do so as well. And quote them together driving to Church Sunday!  "Blessed are they that dwell in God's house: they will be still praising Him. Selah (to us, like Hallelujah). Blessed is the man whose strength is in our Lord; in whose heart are the ways to Zion."

Amen!

                 --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 17, PSALM 84, VERSE 6:

The Verse is lovely, Psalm 84:6. It actually shares with us a major facet of the Christian lifestyle! "Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools."

Wow!

I see here a man, a traveler, going through a desert, a vast and barren stretch of wilderness. And instead of merely worrying about himself, just having his own water pouches full, he "digs a well" ... for those who come after him to enjoy!

Furthermore, in keeping with the context of the whole Psalm, of this whole series of "Korah" Psalms ... the traveler is on his way to the House of God, to worship!

Then note this, the Verse is saturated with "word pictures" about "water." "Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools." Like the "well!" And the "rain!" Plus the "pools" too!

A "valley" is, of course a "low" place in life! It's parent word means "deep." Each of us has been there! The discouraging times we occasionally face!

But observe that he does not "stay" in the valley. He's passing through! The Hebrew word used here is "abar," same as Passover Night and that death angel, the delivering potency of the blood of a little lamb! (We make it "through" our hard times also ... because of the Blood of God's Son, the Lamb!)

This is interesting. "Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools." 

The noun "well" is "mayan," hinting at a "spring" of water. It's didn't say he "dug" that well either, while of course he did. But the verb employed for "make" is "shiyth," meaning "to appoint, to regard, to fix, to set one's mind to something!" He made a great thing of that well! Focused on it and (no doubt) pointed many others to it!

Living for His brethren!

And as as we work to serve others ... God also helps in the process! "The rain also filleth the pools."  Heaven sent water!

The noun "rain" in Hebrew is "moreh," only used 3 times in all the Bible, this specific word! It is however derived from a major word, "yareh," meaning "to throw, to cast down (like God dropping multiple showers of blessings on His potential worshippers, those marching to Zion). "Yarah" also means "to teach," 42 different times in the Bible! God "teaching" through those blessings, through the rain!

"Filleth" is the relatively rare "atah." meaning "to cover, to enwrap, to clothe!" Sounds like the Holy Spirit indwelling us! He is also typified by water! Moving water, living water!

And the noun for "pools" is exciting. It's spelled "barakah" and literally means "blessing!" Only once in the whole Bible is it rendered "pools," right here! Whereas 64 times it is translated "blessing or blessings."

Wow again!

May we all live this way! Loving and thinking of others, especially those who are headed the "same direction" we are, to Jerusalem! "Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools."  

Yes!

Think of someone today to whom you can be a blessing. For whom you can "leave a well" in the valley!

In a used bookstore just this week I found a little volume discussing the "one to another" verses in Scripture! Psalm 84:6 would have been a good frontspiece for that author to have used! One more time, "Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools."  

Consider what God just said to us ... He then will give us further understanding of all this verse is revealing! "Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things." Second Timothy 2:7, based on Proverbs 2:6. "For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding."

Amen!

                 --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 18, PSALM 84, VERSE 7:

The Verse for today, Psalm 84:7, shows a definite "progression." Something that happens in the life of a worshipper of Almighty God, as he or she goes to the Temple time and time again.

Here's what I mean: "They go from strength to strength, every one of them in Zion appeareth before God." Psalm 84:7, word for word.

Before analyzing the words, let me share with you what I think we're being told. Simply this fact ... if a person goes to God's House (which at that time was located at "Zion"), goes faithfully and consistently, he will "grow" in "strength" incrementally!

Worship builds stamina!

The act of listening to God's Word, via preaching or teaching (at Church in our day) ... will build our strength in the Lord! Increase our faith! Develop our Christian lifestyle!

Yes! "They go from strength to strength, every one of them in Zion appeareth before God."

The verb "appeareth" is "raah," but in its passive form. Literally, "was seen." Or "were seen" since the subject is plural, "they." Seen and observed, like a shepherd viewing his flock! Yes, God knows (and sees) when we worship Him, even en masse!

And the verb "go" is "yalak" in Hebrew. Quite often meaning "to walk." They are on a trip, from their individual homes to the Temple (earlier the Tabernacle) in Jerusalem!

In reality, "marching to Zion!"

Now to the nouns, "strength" and "strength." Identical words, as one might think, even in Hebrew. Spelled "chayil," its meaning is distinct. "Might, efficiency, ability!" And here are a few of the ways the word is translated in the King James Bible, "army" (56 times), "man of valour" (37 times), an entire "host" (29 times), armed "forces" (14 times), "valiant" (13 times), and "strength" (12 times).

Wow!

What going to Church and worshipping the Lord can achieve!

"They go from strength to strength, every one of them in Zion appeareth before God." A statement of Truth. One might rightly even consider it a promise from God! A by-product of obedience!

Let's all go to Church Sunday!

                --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

No wonder the New Testament, in like spirit, asks us to appear (along with our brothers and sisters in Christ) before the Lord congregationally! At Church, a place of assembly! "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another." Hebrews 10:25 where "exhorting" means "encouraging!" That is, "strengthening" one another!

 

 

LESSON 19, PSALM 84, VERSES 8 AND 9:

Possibly another "parallelism," today's two verse Text. Verse 9 "echoing" verse 8 to a degree. Let me show you. "O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah. Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed." Psalm 84:8-9

Better yet, let me arrange them in numerical order. And center the lines for analysis. Things become more obvious that way.

8 O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah.

9 Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed.

The Nominatives of address are similar. In Verse 8, "O Lord God of Hosts." In Verse 9, "O God our Shield." The "Lord of Hosts" means the God Who commands the armies! It's one of God's Warrior Names. And "God our Shield" is the One Who protects us during said warfare! Or guards us from enemy attack, from the devil!

See, these names are "parallel." Or "alike, harmonious."

Then each Verse contains a "request." First, "Hear my prayer." Then "Look upon (my) Face!" But isn't this also a clear rewording of the same desire? When God hears our prayers He does look (favorably) on our faces! (Sometimes the King was called God's "anointed." Saul was often by David! The term can be used of humans.)

Then what I think is a third (though not as clear) "likeness," yet in some ways nearly a "repetition." At the end of each verse is another name for God! Verse 8, "God of Jacob." Verse 9 has God as "Anointed," this time referring to Jesus as "Messiah!" The Hebrew noun for "Messiah" is "Mashiyach."

Yes, we ought to pray for God the Father to favorably view His Son, which He always will do. Always has done! Is doing this very second!

Nothing can ever sever that Relationship! Folks, this is simply praying God's Perfect Will, agreeing with the Almighty in His already stated Plans and Actions.

And yes, I realize I've used the word "anointed" in two different ways. But that occurs often in Scripture. A "local and limited" meaning to a term, yet again a "long-range and eternal" one also.

Well, these thoughts today should get us "started" anyway! Pondering this Scripture. "O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah. Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed." Psalm 84:8-9

Amen!

                --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 20, PSALM 84, VERSE 10:

I've head this verse quoted, part of it, since childhood. Psalm 84:10, still praising the House of God, really the God Who dwells there! "For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."

These words are here spoken directly to the Lord Himself, His Very Presence being enjoyed!

The noun "courts" (in Hebrew "chatzser") means an "enclosure." It is also translated "village" (41 times) and "town" (only 1 time) in the Bible. The Tabernacle or Temple "yard" is in view likely.

One day worshipping Almighty God is better, to this believing Jew anyway, than 1,000 days anywhere else, doing any other thing!

The term "doorkeeper" (in Hebrew "saphaph") is used only here in the Bible. Actually "be a doorkeeper" is a verb, an intensively reflexive verb, Hithpoel stem! Doing the least job in the Church is better than doing the best job in the world!

Temporarily serving the Lord is far superior to permanently serving the Devil! "To dwell" (another one time only word in this verse) means to live somewhere long enough to "pile up" possessions and wealth! Just standing at the "door" of the Lord's House is more to be desired than dwelling in a Fifth Avenue "penthouse" of any other Metropolis on earth!

Here we may have a comparison also to dwelling in God's "Tent" (the Tabernacle of the wilderness) ... as opposed to the lavish "tents" of some well-to-do but ungodly man or woman!

"Wickedness" is a rather strong word here ("rasha") as well, meaning active debauchery, spreading and growing and even contaminating others!

"For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."

Just to stand at the door and "peek" inside ... to behold the beauty of the Lord ... is thrilling! Better than anything the world has to offer!

By the way, the Sons of Korah did serve at the Lord's House, as doorkeepers! "And the porters were, Shallum, and Akkub, and Talmon, and Ahiman, and their brethren: Shallum was the chief; who hitherto waited in the king's gate eastward: they were porters in the companies of the children of Levi. And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers, being over the host of the LORD, were keepers of the entry." First Chronicles 9:17-19

Going to worship the Lord!

What an honor!

Listen to David, his greatest desire. "One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple." Psalm 27:4

Wow!

            --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 21, PSALM 84, VERSE 11:

The Verse is a classic! One of the loveliest in all God's Word. Psalm 84:11 promises: "For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly."

Wow!

Notice that more than one Name for God is used. "Jehovah," (God the great "I AM") is twice represented by LORD in our Text. And "God" here translates "Elohiym," suggesting the Trinity!

Then two Traits of God are given, realities of His Person. He is a "sun." In Hebrew "shemesh" means something "brilliant!" It hints at God's Ability to give "light" and "warmth." Like the Cloud of Glory, the "Shekinah" Presence of God! That Cloud, which led Israel all those years in the wilderness, both warmed them in those cold desert nights and guided them through the days!

By the way, the "sun" is the "center" of our galaxy too! Just as Jesus should be the Focus of our lives!

"For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly."

The Lord too is a "shield." Spelled "magen," the noun means "a smaller hand-held defensive weapon," actually designed to give victory in ultra close combat! Protection! God said to Abraham, literally, in Genesis 15:1 ... "Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward."

We do have a Light to guide us Home to Heaven ... and a Shield to keep us safe all the way!

Watch-care from above, the sun ... and security all around, the shield!

This same God will "give" (in Hebrew, "keep on giving") Grace and Glory as well. An unending supply!

Grace for today.

Glory for tomorrow.

"Grace" means "favor, kindness, mercy!"

And "Glory" means the "weight" (in Hebrew "kabod") of "all God is!" The sum total of His Essence. The Reality of His Being!

But there's more! "No good thing will he (God) withhold from them that walk uprightly."

This implies that God might "withhold" bad things! Divert harmful things! (Here's that shield again!)

"Good" translates "tob" in Hebrew ("tov"), that which is "pleasant, agreeable, excellent, precious." What a multiple definition!

Walking "uprightly" means "with a whole heart." An undivided heart, a non-hypocritical heart! "Tamiym" means "complete, entire, sound, full," also "without spot or blemish!"

This verse consists of a litany of promises! "For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly."

Someone ought to memorize it!

And treasure it!

And enjoy it!

And then, live it!

              --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 22, PSALM 84, VERSE 12:

The Chapter (Psalm 84) began by calling God "the Lord of Hosts." Now today, eleven verses later, it  calls Him "the Lord of Hosts" once again!

Plus, two more times in the interior of the Psalm is God so called. A total of four times. Let me show you. You will notice only one small variation.

Verse 1 ... "How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts!"

Verse 3 ... "Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God."

Verse 8 ... "O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah."

And then Verse 12 ... "O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee."

Wow!

The only other Psalm to use this Name for God four times is Psalm 80, but it has nineteen verses, not just twelve!

But watch this fact. Psalm 80 is clearly a Psalm of REPENTANCE! This is typical, its fourth Verse: "O LORD God of hosts, how long wilt thou be angry against the prayer of thy people?" Then Verse 7: "Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved." Plus Verse 14: "Return, we beseech thee, O God of hosts: look down from heaven, and behold, and visit this vine; and the vineyard which thy right hand hath planted, and the branch that thou madest strong for thyself." Then the Psalm's last Verse, the nineteenth: "Turn us again, O LORD God of hosts, cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved." See?

It's about repentance, all right, seeking forgiveness and restitution. Calling on the Lord of Hosts, the God of all the "armies" of Heaven! Psalm 80 is, the whole beautiful thing!

And, subsequently, Psalm 84 (the only other Psalm to call God, "the Lord of Hosts" four times) is about WORSHIP! Read again the verses I mentioned, showed you, above. Here they are, sort of summarized: God's House is "amiable," loving and pleasant! God is both Lord and King! Blessed are even the birds who live near God's Dwelling place! And He hears and answers prayer, too! And this is a God, the only real God, Who can be trusted!

Folks, this is WORSHIP! Lifting high the Name of God, adoring Him, expressing verbally His Value in one's life!

Now watch the "sequence."

Psalm 80 ... repentance!

Psalm 84 ... worship!

That's the way it must happen. REPENT, get right with God, sins covered, forgiven. And you will be immediately overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness. Which will result in WORSHIP!

Wow once again!

The Psalm's last verse, Verse 12. "O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee."

We are indeed "blessed" (in Hebrew, "esher" meaning "happy") to know the Lord and "trust" in Him! And "trust" is "batach" meaning "to be confident" in God or "to feel secure" in Him!

Psalm 84, really a good "pattern" for worship!

If you too (like the Sons of Korah) have been graciously forgiven ... worship the Lord today with all your heart!

                --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 23, KORAH'S FAMILY TREE:

The "family tree" of Korah, does the record of those early generations exist? At least the "stump" of it does! The very Sons of Korah are named in Exodus 6:24. "And the sons of Korah; Assir, and Elkanah, and Abiasaph: these are the families of the Korhites." To this verse we shall return momentarily.

We can also "piece" together Korah's parentage. By the way, Korah's name means "bald!" In Hebrew the word is spelled "Qorah." From the verb "qarach," meaning "to make bald."

Korah's Father was "Izhar," suggesting "shining oil!" It's from a family of words centered around oil making and the freshness of that product! (Implying the "Holy Spirit" of God?)

Korah's Brothers were two in number, "Nepheg" and "Zichri." The first means "to sprout, to spring forth." And the second means "memorable, unforgettable." (From the root Hebrew verb "zakar.") Exodus 6:21 provides this data. Sounds like a good family, so far.

We even know Korah's Grandfather's name! Exodus 6:18 calls him "Kohath." Spelled "qehath" in Hebrew, the name implies an "assembly." The parent verb means "to ally oneself!" Grandpa lived to be 133 years old!

But get this. Korah's Great-Grandfather was "Levi," one of the "original" Sons of Jacob! A great name meaning "joined together."

The potential for godliness certainly existed in Korah's stock. He's from "good seed." He had an outstanding heritage. The "lines had fallen to him in pleasant places," to quote Psalm 16:6.

But now back to Korah's Sons themselves. And today's Text Verse. "And the sons of Korah; Assir, and Elkanah, and Abiasaph: these are the families of the Korhites."

The name "Assir" just means "prisoner!" From "asar," an action word, "to tie, to bind, to imprison."

The name "Elkanah" means "God has possessed." Or some say with equal authority, "God has created." Obviously "El" is God's Name "Elohim," just in a shortened Form. And "qanah" means "to get, to acquire, to buy, to possess" but also "to create." It's even translated "to redeem" once in the Old Testament! "To purchase" five times!

And the name "Abiasaph" means "My father has gathered." In Hebrew "father" is spelled "ab." And "asaph" means "to gather together, to collect, to add, increase, augment!"

Now look at these 3 names. There's a progression in their meanings! Almost forming a life "testimony" of a sinner saved by Grace!

First (Assir) a prisoner! Sold under sin!

Then, through the Mercy of God (Elkanah), "possessed, redeemed, saved!" This is salvation, folks!

Last (Abiasaph), "growing" in the things of God! From spiritual infancy to glorious maturity, under the guidance of God the Holy Spirit!

Wow!

These "Sons of Korah" tell a story, a story indeed! Of God's great Plan of Salvation! (The 12 Sons of Jacob, the Tribes of Israel, tell the same Story. Only in more detail!)

No wonder the "Korah" Psalms are so full of praise and worship and love of the House of God!

God was good to that family! No wonder they loved Him so! "What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me?" Psalm 116:12

Let me add Psalm 68:19 too. "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah."

Yes!

                --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

One of the Korah Psalms, the eighty fifth, says it this way: "Shew us thy mercy, O LORD, and grant us thy salvation. I will hear what God the LORD will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly. Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him; that glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase. Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps." Psalm 85:7-13

Yes, our God, ineffable as He is, deserves unending worship!

 

 

LESSON 24, PSALM 46:1-3 AND THE SONS OF KORAH:

The opening three Verses of Psalm 46 provide a powerful little "reminder" to the Sons of Korah. Their Father had helped lead a "rebellion" against Moses. Numbers 16 gives us the fullest account of the incident. It's true that he did not solely lead the insurrection. He had help from three other men, "Dathan" and "Abiram" plus a man named "On." Well really, these men were the "ringleaders," they persuaded 250 more "men of renown" to join their ranks as well!

And their boldness was flagrant! Their accusations false! To Moses and Aaron they said: "Ye take too much upon you, seeing all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them: wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD?" Numbers 16:3 where Moses and Aaron actually took "nothing" upon themselves! God "conscripted" them for service! Like Paul many years later, "necessity" was laid upon them by the Lord God of Heaven! (First Corinthians 9:16 ... "For though I Paul preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!")

The Lord, not just Moses, became "upset" at this rebellion! God told Moses that one day later, after the first verbal attack, He would "consume" all these people "in a moment!" See Numbers 16:21 for proof.

Then, the rest is history! Here's what God did. "The earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, with all that appertain unto them, and they went down quick into the pit." Numbers 16:30

Wow!

Here's a fuller account. "And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto Korah, and all their goods. They, and all that appertained to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation." Numbers 16:32-33, in what appears to be an "instant," carefully "controlled" earthquake!

Normally in such a deliberate judgment, the men's entire families would have been consumed as well. Think about Achan the thief. Once caught and found guilty ... "Joshua, and all Israel with him, took Achan the son of Zerah, and the silver, and the garment, and the wedge of gold, and his sons, and his daughters, and his oxen, and his asses, and his sheep, and his tent, and all that he had: and they brought them unto the valley of Achor. And Joshua said, Why hast thou troubled us? the LORD shall trouble thee this day. And all Israel stoned him with stones, and burned them with fire, after they had stoned them with stones. And they raised over him a great heap of stones unto this day. So the LORD turned from the fierceness of his anger. Wherefore the name of that place was called, The valley of Achor, unto this day." Joshua 7:24-26

Achan's whole household ... dead!

Stoned by rocks!

Burned by fire, incinerated!

Including the sons!

But with Korah, his "sons" were allowed to live!

That's called GRACE, dear readers!

And it looks like these men, when grown, these "Sons of Korah," never forgot that the Lord had been so good to them! All the Psalms bearing their Name center on thanks and adoration and worship!

Including today's Psalm, today's verses. Psalm 46:1-3. Listen to this high level of praise! "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah." I've boldly capitalized a line you must notice! Though the earth "be removed" or "shake!"

Wow!

That's exactly what happened, too! These boys' Dad and that whole crowd of jealous insurrectionists! The earth opened her mouth, with some "geological commotion" I would suggest, and devoured that wicked confederacy!

Yes, this is "personal!"

A real "testimony!"

In other words ... God is still God, still a "Refuge" and "Strength," even when the earth is convulsively obeying His stark Commands!

Though the earth be moved!

Though the mountains shake!

God judging sin!

Yet God protecting (sparing) His Own!

No wonder the Sons of Korah are known for their fervent worship of God!

They would have already been "in the pit" apart from God's Goodness and Mercy!

They had been "saved by Grace!"

Oh, that's right!

We have too!

Maybe that means you and I should worship the Lord that whole-heartedly as well! Like Psalm 9 opens, "I will praise thee O LORD with my whole heart."

In fact, let's quit writing and reading right now.

And go worship our merciful Lord!

                   --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 22, FURTHER BIBLE PROOF:

How do we know Korah's sons survived that "earthquake" long ago, when the earth "opened her mouth" and swallowed hundreds of rebels?

Numbers 26:10-11 records "And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up together with Korah, when that company died, what time the fire devoured two hundred and fifty men: and they became a sign. Notwithstanding the children of Korah died not."

Wow!

Did you see it?

"Notwithstanding the children of Korah died not."

This group of boys, Assir and Elkanah and Elkanah by name, all lived! The Bible says so! "And the sons of Korah; Assir, and Elkanah, and Abiasaph: these are the families of the Korhites." Exodus 6:24, part of their genealogy!

And of course by the time the these "Korah" Psalms were written (years later) many children and grandchildren and even great-grandchildren had been born, really several generations!

Yes, "The children of Korah died not."

A group of Jews who normally (under nearly any other severe judgment of God) would have died ... "died not!"

That's called GRACE!

That's (their being spared) a classic exhibition of God's MERCY!

In the OLD TESTAMENT, by the way!

A group of people who could easily have been "in the pit!"

Roasted by fire!

Killed by God!

Yet they were spared!

Again, here's what happened to their rebellious forefather Korah (and his "company") ... "And it came to pass, as Moses had made an end of speaking all these words, that the ground clave asunder that was under them. And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto Korah, and all their goods. They, and all that appertained to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation." But there's more ... "And there came out a fire from the LORD, and consumed the two hundred and fifty men that offered incense." All these verses are from the Book of Numbers, chapter 16.

But the sons of Korah, unlike Achan's children, unlike Saul's children, unlike numerous other boys in the history of Israel ... "died not!"

What a reversal!

Therefore I say ... no wonder all the Psalms associated with these boys are so full of thanksgiving!

So charged with worship!

So thankful for God's Amazing Grace!

Today (especially if you know someone who should be in Hell ... but he or she has been spared) tell them how good God is!

And if you happen to be in that number (that is, if you are human) join the chorus!

Psalms like this: "Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations he hath made in the earth. He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire. Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah." Psalm 46:8-11

Hallelujah!

                  --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 23, THE SONS OF KORAH, THEIR OCCUPATIONS:

We really know more, Biblically speaking, about the Sons of Korah than I at first imagined. Not only about their lineage, but also concerning their employment, their work. They, like their founding Forefathers, served the Lord full-time!

"And these are they whom David set over the service of song in the house of the LORD, after that the ark had rest. And they ministered before the dwelling place of the tabernacle of the congregation with singing, until Solomon had built the house of the LORD in Jerusalem: and then they waited on their office according to their order. And these are they that waited with their children. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman a singer, the son of Joel, the son of Shemuel, the son of Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Eliel, the son of Toah, the son of Zuph, the son of Elkanah, the son of Mahath, the son of Amasai, the son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah, the son of Tahath, the son of Assir, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, The son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, the son of Israel." First Chronicles 6:31-38, the last name in this list, "Israel" is also known as "Jacob." Twenty-one generations, if I've counted correctly!

And these miraculously spared boys, men, did what for the Lord?

They "sang!"

At the Tabernacle!

Then later, at the Temple!

"The service of song," where the noun "service" is spelled "yad" in Hebrew, the common word for one's "hand." And "song" translates a word than suggests "while one travels, moves from place to place," he is "joyfully making music" unto the Lord! With "hands uplifted" apparently!

Wow!

"And they ministered before the dwelling place of the tabernacle of the congregation with singing."

The verb "ministered" is interesting! It's a Piel stem word (showing "great emotion, intensity," with a "deliberate" spirit behind such) meaning "to serve" Someone, "to wait" upon that Person, here musically!

How long did they do this?

Many years, as already indicated. "Until Solomon had built the house of the LORD in Jerusalem: and then they waited on their office according to their order." Here "waited" is a different verb, "amad." It means "to stand, to remain, to endure!" Faithfulness, an accurate synonym!

The man currently in charge was "Heman." A name literally meaning,  in Hebrew, "faithful!" Back to our Text: "And these are they that waited with their children. Of the sons of the Kohathites: Heman a singer."

Little wonder the Psalms for the Sons of Korah (Psalms 42-49 and again Psalms 84, 85, 87 and 88) are filled with worship! With song, either songs of praise or lament, both directed to the great God of Heaven!

Plus this, still concerning the sons of Korah. For generations some of these men were also "keepers of the door" at the House of God! Here's First Chronicles 9:19-20. "And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers, being over the host of the Lord, were keepers of the entry. And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, and the Lord was with him."

Others are listed too, through the years. "Concerning the divisions of the porters: of the Korhites was Meshelemiah the son of Kore (Korah), of the sons of Asaph. And the sons of Meshelemiah were, Zechariah the firstborn, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth." First Chronicles 26:1-2

"Porters" are "gate" keepers!

So ... whether singing or guarding ... the Sons of Korah were sincerely serving the Lord at His House!

And Psalm 84, do you remember? "For Lord, a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness." Verse 10 there.

Amen!

And that's surely why these men are so often mentioned in the Psalms!

Spared from death, a violent and painful death, they thanked and praised and worshipped God thereafter for many years!

"Saved," by Grace!

                  --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

LESSON 24, THE SONS OF KORAH, CONCLUSION:

This may be the final Lesson in our "Sons of Korah" Series. Reluctantly I say that! Really, to study each of these Psalms would take a year or more. At least that's my feeling this morning.

But now I'm wondering, "What was the issue that brought such judgment on the Father of these men? On Korah himself?"

To answer this we must consult Scripture of course. "Korah" (meaning "bald," but in the sense of "making oneself bald") was a Jew. A direct descendant of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob! Through Jacob's son Levi, to be more specific. "And these are the names of the sons of Levi according to their generations; Gershon, and Kohath, and Merari: and the years of the life of Levi were an hundred thirty and seven years." Exodus 6:16

This is Levi whose generations to follow were called "Levites." From this family God chose all His Priests! And workers for the Sanctuary, the Tabernacle at first and the Temple later in Israel's history.

These "sons of Korah" descended directly through "Kohath" (meaning "assembly" in Hebrew, from a root word, "to ally oneself"). I have underlined his Name above in the Exodus 6:16 quotation.

Now here's how we know our family "line" is correct so far. "And the sons of Kohath; Amram, and Izhar, and Hebron, and Uzziel: and the years of the life of Kohath were an hundred thirty and three years." Exodus 6:18, where I have now underlined Izhar (meaning "shining oil, pure oil, freshly pressed oil," then ultimately meaning "anointed"), the Father of Korah himself.

Here they are, in chronological order. "Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Levi, Kohath, Izhar then Korah! "And the sons of Izhar; Korah, and Nepheg, and Zichri." Exodus 6:21.

Six generations from Abraham!

But now there's more.

Not only are all these men (since the time of Levi) designated (called) to serve the Lord with all their time and energy, helping Israel fervently worship Almighty God ... they have various duties.

Some were priests, Aaron being the first in line. Aaron, Brother of Moses. Still though, they were Sons of Levi. The first time Aaron is mentioned in the Bible, "And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart." Exodus 4:14, yes Moses is of Levi as well.

Aaron the Priest was a descendant of Amram, Brother of Izhar, Korah's Father. Thus, Aaron the Priest and Korah the Levite were "cousins." Their respective Dads were Brothers.

Now, and this is important, even critical, what kind of work did the Lord have "Korah" doing? Numbers 3:31 tells us: "Their charge shall be the ark, and the table, and the candlestick, and the altars, and the vessels of the sanctuary wherewith they minister, and the hanging, and all the service thereof." Sounds very important!

But it was not the Priesthood!

And somehow Korah was never satisfied!

He merely got to handle the furniture. His cousins were able to lead the worship! To offer the sacrifices! They (in his eyes) were more important! They had more power! More prestige!

Listen to Korah's angry accusation against Moses and Aaron. "Now Korah, the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, and Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, and On, the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took men. And they rose up before Moses, with certain of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty princes of the assembly, famous in the congregation, men of renown. And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, Ye take too much upon you, seeing all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them: wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD?" Numbers 16:1-3

Wow!

Attacking (although verbally) the men of God!

The very Priests of Israel!

Was "jealousy" at the root of this tirade?

Or was it merely "dissatisfaction" with their "minor" jobs, not in the "public eye," not like their cousins!

Here's more information, Moses' response against the rebels. "And Moses said unto Korah, Hear, I pray you, ye sons of Levi: Seemeth it but a small thing unto you, that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself to do the service of the tabernacle of the Lord, and to stand before the congregation to minister unto them? And he hath brought thee near to him, and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek ye the priesthood also? which cause both thou and all thy company are gathered together against the Lord: and what is Aaron, that ye murmur against him?" Leviticus 16:8-11

More defiance from Korah and his crowd. They're really mad!

Whatever the cause, Korah was killed over the issue!

Killed by God!

Here's how. "The ground clave asunder that was under them: and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto Korah, and all their goods. They, and all that appertained to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation." Leviticus 16:31-33

Not happy to do the "less obvious" things for God!

Upset and envious over a relative, a brother in the Lord, whom God has chosen to bless more abundantly that you!

Listen to them "disrespect" Moses. "We will not come up. Is it a small thing that thou hast brought us up out of a land that floweth with milk and honey, to kill us in the wilderness, except thou make thyself altogether a prince over us? Moreover thou hast not brought us into a land that floweth with milk and honey, or given us inheritance of fields and vineyards: wilt thou put out the eyes of these men? We will not come up." All Moses sought was a "meeting" with them!

That was Korah.

But, as we have repeatedly seen, his sons survived!

They did not die that day!

And, here's the point of today's Lesson, THE SONS OF KORAH LEARNED TO BE HAPPY DOING THE "LESS SIGNIFICANT" THINGS AT GOD'S HOUSE!

They did not demand to serve as "High Priest!"

They were thrilled to be "doorkeepers" at God's House!

To be "porters" at the Temple!

To be "singers" in the choir!

Even to be in charge of the "pans" in which food was cooked, aiding worship at the Tabernacle and Temple!

The "pans!"

Cooking "bread" for Church!

"And Mattithiah, one of the Levites, who was the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the set office over the things that were made in the pans. And other of their brethren, of the sons of the Kohathites, were over the shewbread, to prepare it every sabbath." First Chronicles 9:31-32

Happy ... now ... to do "anything" for their Lord!

That just may be the fundamental Truth to glean from the lives of the Sons of Korah!

One verse from Zechariah comes to mind as I close these Lessons. "For who hath despised the day of small things?" Yes, God is in the "small" things too!

Remember the song, "Little is much when God is in it."

Little is much when God is in it!
Labor not for wealth or fame;
There’s a crown, and you can win it,
If you go in Jesus’ name.

Does the place you’re called to labor
Seem so small and little known?
It is great if God is in it,
And He’ll not forget His own.

When the conflict here is ended
And our race on earth is run,
He will say, if we are faithful,
“Welcome home, My child—well done!”

Amen!

           --- Dr. Mike Bagwell

 

 

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