CHRONO

OLOG
GICAL

A.D.
A.D.

B.C.
B.C.

Volume 4

SUMM
SU MMER 2
MM 016: Leader
201 Guidde ESV
Ed Steetzerr G E
Treviin Wax M E
A Summary of the Bible

In the beginning, the all-powerful, personal God created the universe.

This God created human beings in His image to live joyfully in His presence,
in humble submission to His gracious authority. But all of us have rebelled
against God and, in consequence, must suer the punishment of our
rebellion: physical death and the wrath of God.

Thankfully, God initiated a rescue plan, which began with His choosing the
nation of Israel to display His glory in a fallen world. The Bible describes how
God acted mightily on Israels behalf, rescuing His people from slavery and
then giving them His holy law. But Gods peoplelike all of usfailed to
rightly reect the glory of God.

Then, in the fullness of time, in the Person of Jesus Christ, God Himself
came to renew the world and restore His people. Jesus perfectly obeyed the
law given to Israel. Though innocent, He suered the consequences of human
rebellion by His death on a cross. But three days later, God raised Him from
the dead.

Now the church of Jesus Christ has been commissioned by God to take the
news of Christs work to the world. Empowered by Gods Spirit, the church
calls all people everywhere to repent of sin and to trust in Christ alone for
our forgiveness. Repentance and faith restores our relationship with God and
results in a life of ongoing transformation.

The Bible promises that Jesus Christ will return to this earth as the
conquering King. Only those who live in repentant faith in Christ will
escape Gods judgment and live joyfully in Gods presence for all eternity.
Gods message is the same to all of us: repent and believe, before it is too late.
Confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe with your heart that
God raised Him from the dead, and you will be saved.
 A Word from the Editors

Ed Stetzer
Ge
General EditorThe Gospel Project
E D, LW R
E

As far as important biblical themes go, ones that connect the Old and New
Testaments and provide a guiding light through the storyline of Scripture,
there arent many more important than kingdom, and with that, the necessity
of a king.
ng With the creation, God planted a garden and placed Adam and Eve
in it to work it and watch over ita king and queen in a perfect kingdom with
everything provided for them. But with their rebellion came exile. Will we
ever nd our way back?

God prom
promised Abraham and Sarah (princess) that kings would be born
through them (Gen. 17:15-16). The Lord even incorporated the expectation for
kings over His peopl
people into His law (Deut. 17:14-20). Yet the kings who would one day reign proved
themselves to be just
ust like their father Adam. Their sin and rebellion caused more sin and rebellion,
even to the point
int of another exile. What hope is a king who cant maintain his kingdom?

And ultimately, thats the point. You see, we dont need a king; we need a King! Not one like those
of the nations but One who will rule forever over the nations in perfect wisdom, righteousness,
and justice. Not one who takes advantage of people but One who gives His life to save people from
their sins. In Jesus, we have this great and gracious King, and in grateful response, we proclaim His
praises and call others to join in with us in faith and obedience to the kingdom of our God.

Trevin Wax
Managing EditorThe Gospel Project
A , Gospel-Centered Teaching,
A ng Counterfeit Gospels,
Cl Winter Nights: A Young Mans Journey into Truth, Doubt, and What Comes After
Clear

We nd ourselves now at the middle parts of the Biblethe riveting

accounts of battle and intrigue during a high point in Israels history and the
wisdom literature developed over centuries of reection and praise. Here we
are introduced to the awed and insecure King Saul, to King Davidthe man
after Gods own heart, but who eventually committed some egregious sins,
and to King Solomonthe wisest man of his times, whose divided loyalties to
God divided his kingdom between his son and his servant.

If theres one theme running through this section of the Bible, its that God is
faithful to His covevenant and that one day a faithful kinga King of kings
will arrive on the
he sce
scene, both to fulll Godods promises and to establish Gods kingdom forever.
This is the all-powerful,
ower all-wise Savior. Thi
This is the King we have longed for, the King who gives us
wisdom as we joinoi Hi
Him on mission.
 About the Writers

Unit 1:
J. D. Greear is the lead pastor of The Summit Church in
The Gospel Project Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina. Hes the author of Gospel,
Adult Leader Guide ESV
Volume 4, Number 4 Summer 2016 Stop Asking Jesus into Your Heart, and Jesus, Continued: Why
Eric Geiger the Spirit Inside You Is Better Than Jesus Beside You. J. D. holds a
Vice President, LifeWay Resources
PhD from Southeastern Seminary. He and his wife, Veronica,
Ed Stetzer have four children.
General Editor

Trevin Wax
Managing Editor Spence Shelton lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with
Daniel Davis
his wife, Courtney, and their four children. Spence and his
Content Editor family were sent by The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham
Josh Hayes to plant Mercy Church in the fall of 2015. He holds a BSBA
Content and Production Editor from UNC-Chapel Hill and an MDiv from Southeastern
Ken Braddy Baptist Theological Seminary.
Manager, Adult Ongoing Bible Studies

Michael Kelley
Director, Groups Ministry
Unit 2:
Greg Breazeale (sessions 7-12) resides with his wife,
Send questions/comments to: Heather, and three sons in Austin, Texas, where he is the North
Managing Editor,
The Gospel Project: Adult Leader Guide,
Campus pastor at The Austin Stone Community Church.
One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0102; He holds an MDiv from New Orleans Baptist Theological
or make comments on the Web at
www.lifeway.com. Seminary and is currently pursuing a DMin in Expository
Printed in the United States of America Preaching at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The Gospel Project: Adult Leader Guide ESV Keith and Kristyn Getty (session 13) are writers of modern
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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are
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Publishers. Used by permission.
 Table of Contents

Suggested for
the week of

Unit 1: God the King (12 Samuel)

June 5 7 Session 1 When We Demand a King
June 12 19 Session 2 The Downfall of Israels First King
June 19 31 Session 3 The King Who Fights for His People
June 26 43 Session 4 The King Who Befriends
July 3 55 Session 5 A King of Promise
July 10 67 Session 6 The King Who Needs a Savior

Unit 2: God All Wise (1 Kings, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes)

July 17 79 Session 7 Solomon Asks for Gods Wisdom
July 24 91 Session 8 Wisdom for Gods People
July 31 103 Session 9 Solomon Builds the Temple
August 7 115 Session 10 The Foolishness of a Once-Wise King
August 14 127 Session 11 Solomon Reects on the Meaning of Life
August 21 139 Session 12 Job and the Dilemma of Suering
August 28 151 Session 13 The Praises of Gods People
 How to Use The Gospel Project

Tips from Trevin on how best to use this Leader Guide

Welcome to The Gospel Project! Think of yourself as a guide leading your group on a tour of Gods
Word, journeying through the Bibles grand story and encountering the riches of Christs redemption.
We hope The Gospel Project will provide you with the tools and resources you need as you prayerfully
seek to apply the truth of the gospel to the people God has placed in your group. Here are some things
to remember as you use this leader guide:

Pray. Pray for your group. Dont lead in your own strength.

Adapt. You know the style of your group. If more discussion-oriented, then encourage group
members to read the session ahead of time. Use the For Further Discussion questions in the
Session Plan to facilitate discussion that stays grounded in the session. If you take a more master-
teacher approach, then spend time familiarizing yourself with the Expanded Session Content. Select
questions that make the most strategic sense for moving the session along.

Cut. If it seems to you that The Gospel Project provides too much material for one session, youre
right. We chose to deliver more than you need and to include the bulk of the content in the personal
study guide (PSG) so you dont feel pressed to get all the content delivered in the session time itself.
Refer your group members to the PSG.

Add. The PSG has the bulk of the content from the leader guide, but not all of it. Throughout the
Expanded Session Content, you will see portions of leader-only content marked off in the margin, as
this portion is. These sections might be transitions between points, illustrations, answers to questions,
content for interactive portions in the PSG, and even theological connections. The Session Plan will
reference the more vital sections, but as you shape each session, consider how these leader-only
sections can benet your group.

Personalize. Take the truths in The Gospel Project and enhance them. Add personal stories. Ask
penetrating questions that go to the heart of the people you know and love.

Resource yourself. (Encourage your group to take advantage of these resources too.)
Make use of the additional resources suggested at the end of each session.
Read a suggested chapter or section in a book.
Learn from the Tip of the Week to grow as a teacher and a group in spiritual maturity.
Visit GospelProject.com/Blog for the following:
Read blog posts related to the overall study theme and specic sessions.
Listen to a brief video as I point out the highlights to focus on for the upcoming session.
Visit GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources to access these resources:
Read online articles and blog posts related to the session content.
Listen to helpful podcasts from pastors and church leaders.
Download suggestions for interactive options to help address a variety of learning styles.

Overflow. RememberThe Gospel Project is not just a curriculum. We are the project. As we immerse
ourselves in the great story of redemption, Gods Spirit uses the gospel to change us. Dont prepare
simply for the content youre going to deliver. Let the truths of Gods Word soak in as you study. A great
leader is not a dispenser of information but an overowing river of gospel passion. Let God work on your
heart rst, and then pray that He will change the hearts of the people He has entrusted to your care.

6 Leader Guide
 SESSION 1

When We
Demand a King
Summary and Goal

The Israelites rejected God as their King by demanding a human king to rule over them. This desire
revealed that the Israelites did not believe God was sucient for them. Their sinful demand opened
the door for enslavement and made them resemble the other nations. Although today we may not
demand a monarch, we search for kings to provide security for us. Israels story reminds us of the
need to be fully satised in God as the true King.

Main Passage
1 Samuel 8

Session Outline
1. When we demand a king, we admit that God is not enough for us (1 Sam. 8:1-9).
2. When we demand a king, we open the door to enslavement (1 Sam. 8:10-18).
3. When we demand a king, we look just like everyone else (1 Sam. 8:19-22).

Theological Theme
Our holiness is expressed in our dependence on God as the true King, not in our desire for substitutes.

Christ Connection
Israels demand for an earthly king was a twisted form of a good desirefor Gods kingdom to come
through His anointed leader. Gods big plan incorporated Israels sinful desire and eventually led to the
coming of Jesus, the King of kings.

Missional Application
God calls us to stand out from the world by showing that true happiness and satisfaction can be found
only in God.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 7

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Pack Item 1:
A Kingdom
Established
Display this poster in a
place that will help group
members follow the
storyline of Scripture, to
remember where weve been
and where we are going.
Introduction Option
In a 2006 study, researchers
used four categories to
label the different visions
of God held by Americans:
the Authoritarian God; the
Benevolent God; the Critical
God; and the Distant God.
Use the report to explain
these four categories to
your group.
usatoday30.usatoday.com/
news/religion/2006-09-11-
religion-survey_x.htm
Then divide your group
into four small groups.
Assign each group one
of the views of God and
ask them to compare and
contrast it to how God has
revealed Himself through
the storyline of Scripture
that we have studied thus
far. Call for groups to share
some of their conclusions,
and then move on with
the Introduction.
8 Leader Guide
Session Plan
When We
Demand a King
Session 1
Introduction
Start with the existence of God or a higher power as a welcome thought for
most people, though tension lies in the amount of authority this God has in
their lives (leader p. 10; personal study guide [PSG] p. 10).
Have you ever heard the phrase My God is like or
My God would never do? What do these phrases
communicate about ones view of God?
Draw attention to the transition into a new part of the storyline of Scripture,
moving from the period of the judges into the period of the kings. Then
summarize the session (leader p. 10; PSG p. 10).
1. When we demand a king, we admit that God
is not enough for us (1 Sam. 8:1-9).
Using Pack Item 2: Samuels Life and the leader content, remind the group
about who Samuel is (leader p. 11). Then read 1 Samuel 8:1-9. Point out
that Samuel sensed a lack of trust in God in the people because of their
request. Explain how this request was an act of rebellion against God
(leader pp. 11-12; PSG p. 11).
What are some things that make you feel secure?
What are the signs that we are trusting in these things for
our security and not in God alone?
Emphasize why God acquiesced to Israels request: God will sometimes
answer your prayers to let you learn the hard way that your motivation was
wrong. Note that it is not wrong to ask God for good things; the problem is,
like in Israels case, when someone craves those things and feels like he or she
could not be happy or secure without them (leader pp. 12-13; PSG p. 12).
Have you ever received something that you really wanted
only to feel unsatised after you got it? Explain.
2. When we demand a king, we open the door
to enslavement (1 Sam. 8:10-18). For Further
Read 1 Samuel 8:10-18. Highlight the consequences of Israels demand for a Discussion
king, namely, that a king would exploit them (leader p. 13; PSG p. 13). Ask Why is Gods demand
for exclusive worship
groups of 2-3 to tease out the implications of being enslaved to each of the considered offensive,
conditions listed in the table in the PSG. After a few moments, call for responses. particularly in
Supplement as needed from the leader content (leader p. 14; PSG p. 14). todays culture?
How is Gods demand
for exclusive worship of
What are some examples of things in life that promise to Him actually liberating
give us something but instead take from us? and loving rather than
debilitating and malicious?
Explain that everybody serves something, either God who brings life or
something that brings death (leader p. 14; PSG p. 15).

Where do you nd yourself turning for fulllment other

than God?

How do these lesser kings fail to deliver on their promise?

3. When we demand a king, we look just like

everyone else (1 Sam. 8:19-22). Conclusion Option
Ask a volunteer to read 1 Samuel 8:19-22. Point out that Israel forfeited Instead of merely reading
what set them apart from every other nation in demanding a king. Draw the hymn aloud, consider
concluding this session
the analogy between Israel and Christians who look to things in this world by singing O Worship the
for protection, security, and validation (leader p. 15; PSG pp. 15-16). Use King together as a group.
the illustration of the fathers reason for loving his sons to show where true (A printable PDF of this
hymn is available on the
security is found (leader p. 16). DVD in The Gospel Project
for Adults: Leader Pack. Make
How does the assurance of Gods love for us break the as many copies as needed.)
power of sin in our lives?

Show that God gave Israel exactly what they asked for in King Saul. Address
Christ Connection: Israels
how all earthly kings will disappoint and how the cross shows God to be a demand for an earthly
uniquely trustworthy King (leader p. 16; PSG pp. 16-17). king was a twisted form of
a good desirefor Gods
kingdom to come through
In what ways do we stand out from the world when we are His anointed leader. Gods
trusting in God alone as King? big plan incorporated
Israels sinful desire and
eventually led to the
How does standing out in this way aid us in our mission of coming of Jesus, the King
making disciples? of kings.
........................................................
Conclusion Missional Application:
God calls us to stand out
Say that only by trusting God alone with our entire lives will we look from the world by showing
dierent from those around us (leader p. 17; PSG p. 17). Conclude by reading that true happiness and
satisfaction can be found
aloud the hymn O Worship the King (leader p. 17). Apply the truths of this only in God.
session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 18).

Session 1 9
 Expanded Session Content

When We
Demand a King
Session 1

Introduction
Voices from For most people the idea of God is a welcome thought, yet there are
the Church those who reject the notion of a higher power. According to a 2014 study
The Lord reigns, not the by the Pew Research Forum, atheists account for only 3.1 percent of the
idols. Not money or power. U.S. population. Another 19.8 percent either dont know or dont care
Not the rich or powerful.
Not the beautiful. Not about the existence of God. But the majority of the population does hold
the nicest people, not the to a belief in the supernatural. They may not believe in God as understood
worst ones. Not companies
or CEOs. Not human kings by Christians, but they still arm a religious faith. 1
or presidents. The Lord The tension for most people isnt whether or not God exists but how
reigns, and that is our
only hope. 2 much authority this God has in their lives. Many seem to be okay with
Ed Stetzer God as long as He is just a spiritually uplifting thought or someone to
and Philip Nation turn to in hard times. But what about a God who dictates the purpose and
shape of their lives? The notion of an intrusive, obedience-demanding
deity is oensive. And because many do not see the evidence of Gods
provision in their lives, they do not trust Him and His ways for their
well-being.

Have you ever heard the phrase My God is like or

My God would never do? What do these phrases
communicate about ones view of God?

Session Summary
As we resume our journey through the biblical narrative, we move
from the period of the judges into the period of the kings. In this session
we see the Israelites rejecting God as their King by demanding a human
king to rule over them. This desire revealed that the Israelites did not
believe God was sucient for them. Their sinful demand opened the door
for enslavement and made them resemble the other nations. Although
today we may not demand a monarch, we search for kings to provide
security for us. Israels story reminds us of the need to be fully satised in
God as the true King.

10 Leader Guide
1. When we demand a king, we admit that God is
not enough for us (1 Sam. 8:1-9). Further
Samuel was the boy who was miraculously born to Hannah and then Commentary
grew up to be one of Israels greatest prophets. He heard directly from God All the elders of Israel
were unanimous, and
and then spoke on behalf of God to the people. Unfortunately, Samuels sufficiently in touch
sons turned from the Lord, and their rebellion provided the chance for with one another to
assemble at Ramah with
Israel to request something they had been itching after for quite the request that Samuel
some time. should appoint a king
to govern us like all the
nations (Heb. gym, in
1
When Samuel became old, he made his sons judges over Israel. 2 The the sense of gentiles).
name of his rstborn son was Joel, and the name of his second, Abijah; The phrase is reminiscent
of Deuteronomy 17:14-15
they were judges in Beersheba. 3 Yet his sons did not walk in his ways but where the desire to
turned aside after gain. They took bribes and perverted justice. emulate other nations is
foreseen and permitted,
4
Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at rather than approved.
Ramah 5 and said to him, Behold, you are old and your sons do not walk Samuel thoroughly
disapproved, but consulted
in your ways. Now appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations. the Lord nevertheless.
6
But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, Give us a king to judge Samuels role as
intermediary between the
us. And Samuel prayed to the LORD. 7 And the LORD said to Samuel, elders and the Lord, and
Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have between the Lord and the
elders, is a feature of this
not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them. chapterHearken to the
8
According to all the deeds that they have done, from the day I brought voice of the people: Israels
unanimous demand was to
them up out of Egypt even to this day, forsaking me and serving other be granted, and twice the
gods, so they are also doing to you. 9 Now then, obey their voice; only you point is made (cf. v. 9). The
Lord had his ideal for his
shall solemnly warn them and show them the ways of the king who shall people, but in this far-from-
reign over them. ideal world he adapted his
purposes and acquiesced
sufficiently to allow Israel
Samuel sensed that the peoples request represented a lack of trust in a king, even incorporating
the monarchy into his
God. God was supposed to be their true King, as they were to depend on revelation of himself to
Him for everything. But the people were asking for something more than Israel. Kingship was soon
to be a major theme of the
God to bring them security. The people had not rejected God outright; Old Testament, but so was
they were, in eect, saying, God, yes, we want You, but we also need a the pattern, begun at the
exodus, of refusal to obey
guarantee of this, and that, and this, and that. the Lords rule. 3
In Israels story, we see two ways to reject God: one is to reject Him Joyce G. Baldwin
outright; the other is to say you follow Him but then not really depend
on Him. This second form of rebellion is expressed whenever you insist
on a number of other things to be present in your life before you can
feel secure.
Is it not easier to trust God when everything that you think you
need for life is right in front of you? Your job is secure, your marriage
is fullling, and everyone you care about is healthy. But when one of
these things is missing, do you notice a feeling of insecurity or anxiety or
unhappiness arising within you?

Session 1 11

Further
Commentary
In Deuteronomy 17,
God clearly laid out
the expectation that
a king would lead His
people one day. So the
Israelites request for a
king in 1 Samuel 8 was
no surprise, nor was their
wicked motivation behind
the request. Did their
sinful demand cause God
to change His plan? No
actions, words, or thoughts
of ours can escape Gods
foreknowledge and thwart
His plan (Job 42:2). And so
it is true that God is fullling
His plan not just despite sin
but even through sin. God
is able to use anything and
everything for His glory and
for the good of those who
love Him. 4
Halim Suh
Voices from
the Church
The reason the Israelites
give betrays their apostasy,
an abandonment of their
missional callingThey
wanted to be like the other
nationsprecisely what
God had called Israel not
to be. 5
Michael Goheen
12 Leader Guide
Wouldnt it be easier to trust God and follow Him if you had some
kind of binding, legal guarantee of what He would do? Imagine some sort
of guaranteed overdraft protection on your bank account, so that when
you were out of money, it would automatically dip into Gods, and you
could look online and see how much money God had at the moment. Or
maybe you would like a security system on your house that automatically
tied into God, so that when a burglar came in, a couple of angels showed
up to deal with the bad guys. Or maybe you would like a medical
insurance card from God that says, May get sick temporarily but will
always be miraculously healed.
It would be so much easier to trust God if we could control Him, but
we cannot. So, too often we create a list of requirements in addition to
God. We will follow Him, but with our own stipulations.
What are some things that make you feel secure?
What are the signs that we are trusting in these things for
our security and not in God alone?
Whenever we dont trust someone, we usually arrange things in order
to control them. The reason we require contracts enforceable by law with
people with whom we do business is because we do not trust them to
keep up their end of the bargain. The void of trust is lled with attempts
at control.
This is where Israel was. They wanted a king they could see and touch
and control. And God saw their request as a rejection, because everything
about His character proved that they should have been able to trust Him.
God called their request for a king disobedience, but then He
acquiesced. If this request was so bad, why did God give it to them? Why
not simply say no? This is why: God will sometimes answer your prayers to
let you learn the hard way that your motivation was wrong.
One of the worst judgment statements in the Bible is Romans 1:26:
For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. In other
words, Gods judgment was to answer all of their desires with a yes.
The reverse is also true. Some of Gods greatest mercies to us come in
the form of unanswered prayers. Some people get mad at God for not
answering their prayers. But what if He is refusing to answer your prayer
as a way of protecting you? It may not seem like protection. After all, what
is the harm in being married? What is so bad about making an extra
$20,000 a year? But the greatest blessing God could ever give is the ability
to be happy in Him alone. Sometimes He has to teach us that by
withholding blessings that we think would be benecial.
 To clarify, it is not inherently wrong to desire money or marriage or
success. It is not wrong to ask God for good things. The problem comes
when a person craves those things and feels like he or she could not be
happy or secure without them. This is what was at the root of Israels
request for a king.

Have you ever received something that you really wanted

only to feel unsatised after you got it? Explain.

2. When we demand a king, we open the door to

enslavement (1 Sam. 8:10-18). Further
10
So Samuel told all the words of the LORD to the people who were Commentary
asking for a king from him. 11 He said, These will be the ways of the king As Samuel pointed out,
who will reign over you: he will take your sons and appoint them to his the decision to have a
permanent king meant
chariots and to be his horsemen and to run before his chariots. 12 And he much more than the
will appoint for himself commanders of thousands and commanders of addition of one person
to the circle of power
fties, and some to plow his ground and to reap his harvest, and to make his in Israel. It entailed the
implements of war and the equipment of his chariots. 13 He will take your establishment of a
permanent, multitiered
daughters to be perfumers and cooks and bakers. 14 He will take the best of bureaucratic institution
your elds and vineyards and olive orchards and give them to his servants. utilizing the services of
15
thousands of individuals.
He will take the tenth of your grain and of your vineyards and give it to To underwrite this form
his ocers and to his servants. 16 He will take your male servants and female of government, vast
quantities of personal and
servants and the best of your young men and your donkeys, and put them to family resources would
his work. 17 He will take the tenth of your ocks, and you shall be his slaves. have to be given over to
18
the kingPlacing this heavy
And in that day you will cry out because of your king, whom you have burden on the backs of the
chosen for yourselves, but the LORD will not answer you in that day. citizens of Israels twelve
tribes would have the
practical effect of reducing
Samuel didnt hold back when he foretold the consequences of Israels them to slaves (v. 17). As
a result, the people would
demand for a king. The dominant word in this description is take: the cry out for relief from the
king will take your sons and daughters; he will take your crops and your king (v. 18) as though he
were an enemy. However,
lands; he will take the best years of your liveshe will exploit you and all the Lord would not grant
your resources for himself. them a respite at that time.
Israel would one day be
The irony here is tremendous. The Israelites looked to a king to freed from the burden of a
guarantee prosperity and security. What they would receive instead were royal bureaucracy, but only
after outside forces had
kings who would take those things from them. They wanted a king reduced the royal bastions
whom they could control. Instead, their kings would wind up controlling to rubble. 6
them. What they thought would empower them would actually Robert D. Bergen
enslave them!
This is an Old Testament version of a New Testament principle: When
you have other kings besides God, those kings do not save you; they enslave you.
Whatever you depend on for happiness and security, you become the slave
of that thing. For example:

Session 1 13

Voices from
the Church
God has placed in the
heart of every man a
longing for Himself,
and nothing that isnt
Himself, nothing thats
not eternal, can fulfill an
eternal longing. 7
Colt McCoy
and Matt Carter
Voices from
Church History
The power of sin is
broken by new power
that is greaterMan now
transcends his old self.
He finds himself anew in
his new resurrection life
in Christ. 8
E. Y. Mullins (1860-1928)
If you have You become the slave of that relationship.
to have a
You feel miserable all the time if you are single.
certain kind of
Or if you are married, you constantly feel like
relationship to
your spouse lets you down. You are tempted to
be happy
leave your marriage and nd fulllment in a new
marriage or an extra-marital affair.
If you have to You become the slave of success.
be successful to
You overwork; you get jealous of other successful
nd fulllment
people; you resent others for their opportunities,
promotions, and praise. You are devastated
when people talk about you without giving you
due credit and recognizing your value. We say
that certain people are driven by success, but
a better way to say it might be that they are
enslaved by success. Success drives us until we
destroy our families, our health, and our very lives.
If you have to It can quickly enslave you.
have some
It starts out as an enjoyable escape that you can
physical escape
control, but it ends up as a tyrant that controls
to release stress
you. The type of escape variespornography,
or feel relaxed
drugs, alcohol, overeatingbut the pattern is the
same. It begins as something you can go to on
your own terms to escape the tedium of your day,
but then you begin to crave it, and more of it, and
worse types of it. Soon you cannot turn the drive
off. The physical pleasure that you once mastered
quickly masters you, ruining relationships and
souring every aspect of your life.

What are some examples of things in life that promise to

give us something but instead take from us?

Every life has a king. A king in your life is whatever you must have
in order to be happy and secure. And kings make all of their subjects into
servants. The apostle Paul said it this way: Formerly, when you did not
know God, you were enslaved to those that by nature are not gods
(Gal. 4:8). Or as Bob Dylan sang, Youve gotta serve somebody.
Now, there are always some free spirits who feel like they have gamed
the whole system. Youve gotta serve somebody, huh? Well, not me.
I dont need anything or anybody. Im not enslaved to any of that stu. Im
a free man. But these are the same people who are afraid to commit in
their relationships. Precisely because they are free, they will not allow
anything to stand in the way of their absolute independence.
Independence becomes their king, and they become its slave. They must
have selsh independence to be happy.
Everybody serves something. There are no exceptions. You are either
submitted to Someone who brings lifeGodor you are enslaved to
something that brings death.

14 Leader Guide
 Where do you nd yourself turning for fulllment other
than God?

How do these lesser kings fail to deliver on their promise?

3. When we demand a king, we look just like

everyone else (1 Sam. 8:19-22). Further
Weve seen that when we demand a king, we are admitting that God Commentary
is not enough for us, and therefore, we are opening the door to How can the people of
God, who have experienced
enslavement. Now we see that the demand for a king makes us look like his deliverance, seek
everyone else, just as it did with Israel: security in lesser powers
like human kings?Such is
the tendency of the human
19
But the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel. And they said, heart, to seek safety and
No! But there shall be a king over us, 20 that we also may be like all the security in governments,
bank accounts, human
nations, and that our king may judge us and go out before us and ght relationships, insurance
our battles. 21 And when Samuel had heard all the words of the people, policies, health plansall
kinds of things that can
he repeated them in the ears of the LORD. 22 And the LORD said to Samuel, never ultimately deliver.
Obey their voice and make them a king. Samuel then said to the men of True security can be found
only in God and in his King,
Israel, Go every man to his city. Jesus himself (cf. Mic. 5:4;
Rom. 8:31-39). The gospel
call is always to resist
Even though Israel had been warned that a king would ultimately becoming conformed to
abuse his power, they still demanded one. They wanted someone they worldly thinking and to be
transformed in our thinking
could visibly see who would ght their battles. They were forfeiting the and living (Rom. 12:2) by
very thing that set them apart from every other nation. God is not like a the power of the indwelling
Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:5-6). 9
human king, who will abuse his power and unfairly take from his people.
V. Philips Long,
God is a loving Father who has gone to great lengths to rescue and save Gospel Transformation Bible
His people. Yet Israel wanted to be like every other nation.
Similarly, when people who have been redeemed by Christ look to
things in this world for protection, security, and validation, they start
to look like everyone else. Forgetting their identity and the love that
comes from a restored relationship with God, they become bound to a
king they think will satisfy them. This pursuit leads to the obsessing,
overworking, and destructive behavior that we have discussed previously.
With this type of behavior, it is dicult to distinguish between professing
Christians and the rest of the world.
This is not what God intended for His people. This is not what He
intends for you. He wants you to know the love and assurance that comes
from knowing Christ. He doesnt want you to obsess over things in this
world that hold only empty promises.

Session 1 15

Voices from
Church History
That which they aimed at
in desiring a king was not
only, as before, that they
might be like the nations
but that they might have
one to judge them, and to
go out before them when
they took the field, and to
fight their battles. Foolish
people and unwise! Could
they ever desire a battle
better fought for them than
the last was, by Samuels
prayer and Gods thunder
[1 Sam. 7:10]? 10
Matthew Henry
(1662-1714)
99 Essential
Christian Doctrines
5. Authority of Scripture
Since the Bible is the
inspired Word from God,
Gods special revelation
to humanity, the Bible is
the ultimate standard of
authority for the Christian.
Because it is truthful in
everything that it teaches,
Scripture is humanitys
source for wisdom,
instructing us on how to
live life well to the glory
of God. Submitting to
the authority of Scripture
means that we are to
believe and obey God by
believing and obeying
His Word.
16 Leader Guide
A fellow dad-friend once taught me a great lesson Ive implemented
with my children. At random moments with his boys, he will ask them,
Why does Daddy love you? They used to answer with comments like
Because we are fast or Because we are awesome ninjas or other
hilarious things young kids say. Each time this exchange occurred, he
would conclude by reminding them the real reason he loved them:
Because you are my sons. Years later, they now roll their eyes like older
kids do and repeat it back to him when he asks them. But the love of their
father for his sons is embedded into their minds and hearts. When the love
of the Father for you is a present reality in your life, the need to nd
security in other things can fade away.
How does the assurance of Gods love for us break the
power of sin in our lives?
God warned the people of Israel of all the bad consequences of
receiving a king. But they demanded one anyway. In the next few
chapters, we see how God gave them exactly what they asked for. King
Saul promised change, gave the people hope they could believe in, and
guaranteed that Israels status in the world would be restored.
But after a good start, Saul started to do exactly what God said he
would. He started to use the people for his own advantage. He turned out
to be a self-idolizing, self-willed tyrant.
All earthly kings will disappoint. We have the chance to make the
choice that Israel did notthe choice of faith. And we have more evidence
to analyze than they did. We have a longer history of Gods faithfulness
to reect upon, more stories of His faithfulness in the midst of human
faithlessness. Most importantly, we have the cross, the ultimate display
of Gods love and faithfulness to us. There is no king we could serve who
gave more for us than God did.
Many people nd the idea of the Christian God just ne, provided
they can institute certain conditions: As long as God does this, prevents
me from that, and provides me with this, then I will follow Him. But
that is not faith at all. That is rejection because conditional obedience is
still disobedience. To follow this King, we must step out in faith, with
absolutely no conditions and no exceptions.
How can we be sure that God will take care of us? How can we leap
into the unknown with condence that God will actually catch us? We
need only to look at the cross, where God poured Himself out for us.
There, on Calvary, God proved that His compassion for us was beyond
anything we could have imagined. There, once and for all, He proved that
He is the King worth trusting with absolutely everything.
 In what ways do we stand out from the world when we are
trusting in God alone as King?
Further
How does standing out in this way aid us in our mission of
Commentary
making disciples? The desire to be like the
nations in having a king
constituted a serious and
Conclusion fundamental change in
the national life of Israel.
Our society is full of people willing to make room for God as a piece Formerly, the people had
in the puzzle of their lives. What sets believers apart from the world is that been ruled by people
called judges, spiritually
we nd true happiness and satisfaction only in God Himself. The God gifted leaders whom God
who saved us is the same God who sustains us. When we begin to trust had raised up in response
to a spiritual change of
God alone with our entire lives, we will look dierent from those heart among the people.
around us. To have a human king
introduced the hereditary
principle, which meant
that future rulers would
CHRIST CONNECTION: Israels demand for an earthly king was come from that kings
a twisted form of a good desirefor Gods kingdom to come descendants. A king would
through His anointed leader. Gods big plan incorporated Israels not automatically have the
special moral and spiritual
sinful desire and eventually led to the coming of Jesus, the King endowments that a ruler of
of kings. Gods people ought to have.
Thus, the Israelites would
not need to wait for God
to select a successor, nor
would they have to turn to
God and trust Him to supply
O worship the King, all glorious above, a leader. They could select
And gratefully sing His wonderful love; the new leader on the basis
Our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days, of primogeniture, political
skills, physical superiority, or
Pavilioned in splendor, and girded with praise. some other human quality.
Simply put, the Hebrews
O tell of His might, O sing of His grace, wanted to select their own
leaders rather than letting
Whose robe is the light, whose canopy space! God do it. 12
His chariots of wrath the deep thunderclouds form, James Travis,
And dark is His path on the wings of the storm. BiblicalIllustrator

Thy bountiful care what tongue can recite?

It breathes in the air, it shines in the light;
It streams from the hills, it descends to the plain,
And sweetly distills in the dew and the rain.

Frail children of dust, and feeble as frail,

In Thee do we trust, nor nd Thee to fail:
Thy mercies how tender, how rm to the end;
Our Maker, Defender, Redeemer, and Friend! 11

Robert Grant (1779-1838)

Session 1 17
 Additional Resources

When We Demand a King

References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry

1. Americas Changing Religious Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
Landscape, Pew Research Center
[online], 12 May 2015 [cited 21 Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
October 2015]. Available from the
Internet: www.pewforum.org.
blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
2. Ed Stetzer and Philip Nation,
eds., The Lord Reigns, in The
Mission of God Study Bible Study Material
(Nashville: B&H, 2012), 596.
3. Joyce G. Baldwin, 1and 2Samuel, - Creation of the KingdomPages 73-77 from Living Gods Word
vol. 8 in Tyndale Old Testament
Commentaries (Downers Grove: by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays
IVP, 1998), 91.
4. Halim Suh, Looking for a King, - Give Us a King!Article by Bob Denbaugh; nd a link to this
The Gospel Project: Adult Leader
Guide (Fall 2014): 73. article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
5. Michael W. Goheen, A Light to
the Nations (Grand Rapids: Baker, - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including The Monarchy: Samuels
2011), 55.
6. Robert D. Bergen, 1,2Samuel,
Apprehension, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter,
vol. 7 in The New American at LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
Commentary (Nashville: B&H,
2002) [eBook on WORDsearch].
7. Colt McCoy and Matt Carter, The
Real Win (New York: Multnomah, Sermon Podcast
2013), 34.
8. E. Y. Mullins, The Christian
Religion in Its Doctrinal Expression
J. D. Greear: Tyranny
(Philadelphia: Roger Williams
Press, 1917), 293.
9. V. Philips Long, Gospel Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Transformation Bible (Wheaton:
Crossway, 2013), 351-52, n. 8:1-22.
10. Matthew Henry, A Commentary
on the Whole Bible, vol. 2 (New
York: Revell), 324. Tip of the Week
11. Robert Grant, O Worship the
King, in Baptist Hymnal (Nashville:
LifeWay Worship, 2008), 24.
Want to Be Coached?
12. James Travis, All the Nations
Israels Counterparts, Biblical For every session, at GospelProject.com, managing editor Trevin Wax
Illustrator (Summer 1990): 34.
provides a brief video overview of the upcoming session as well as
some tips for the group leader. Check out The Gospel Project blog and
GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources for more information on how to
access these helpful videos. These videos can also be found on the DVD
included in The Gospel Project for Adults: Leader Pack.

18 Leader Guide
 SESSION 2

The Downfall of
Israels First King
Summary and Goal

In King Sauls story, we see how the failure to obey God completely leads us to rationalize and justify
our disobedience, a sin that is compounded by the desire for human approval rather than divine grace.
Halfhearted obedience is just another form of disobedience, and so, God calls us to renounce our
hypocritical displays of righteousness and to submit fully to His purpose and plan.

Main Passage
1 Samuel 15:10-31

Session Outline
1. Our downfall is in our failure to obey God completely (1 Sam. 15:10-15).
2. Our downfall is in our rationalization of disobedience (1 Sam. 15:16-21).
3. Our downfall is in our desire for human approval (1 Sam. 15:22-31).

Theological Theme
God requires total obedience to all of His commands.

Christ Connection
Sauls kingship could not last because he rejected Gods word. Israel needed a lasting kingdom ruled
by Someone who would obey God fully. Through the perfect obedience of Jesus, God would establish
His rule over His people forever.

Missional Application
God calls us to renounce our hypocritical displays of righteousness and to submit fully to His purpose
and plan so that the world will see His redemption.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 19

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.
 Session Plan

The Downfall of
Israels First King
Session 2

Introduction
Point 1 Option Connect this session with the last one by reminding the group of Israels
Read the Essential demand for a king: God gave them what they asked for in Saul. His
Christian Doctrine God Is
Unchanging (leader p. 24; rule began well but soon exposed his faulty obedience (leader p. 22;
PSG p. 20), and then ask personal study guide [PSG] p. 19).
your group to consider
why it is good news that
God does not change. Think back to when you were a kid, or consider the children
Proceed with the you interact with regularly. What are some instructions that
following questions: a child is likely to obey only halfheartedly?
Prior to the ood, the
Lord regretted making
human beings on the What are the signs that a childs obedience
earth and was grieved in is compromised?
His heart because of their
wickedness (Gen. 6:5-6).
How did God demonstrate State that in Sauls story we see the anatomy of disobedience (leader p. 22).
His unchanging nature Then summarize this session about his downfall (leader p. 22; PSG p. 19).
and commitment to His
promises in sending the
ood as judgment on evil? 1. Our downfall is in our failure to obey God
Why is it important to completely (1 Sam. 15:10-15).
distinguish between
how God regrets and Set the context for 1 Samuel 15 (leader p. 23), and then ask a volunteer to
how humans do (see read verses 10-15. Examine the meaning of Gods saying I regret
1 Sam. 15:29)?
indicating the dierence between Gods experience of regret and humanitys
(leader p. 23; PSG p. 20).

This passage gives two reasons for Gods emotion of

regret: Saul turned away from following Him and he did not
obey His instructions. How are these two reasons related?

Highlight the dierence between Samuel and Saul in their perspectives on

the situation. Say that halfhearted obedience is disobedience in both Sauls
case and ours (leader p. 24; PSG p. 21).

What examples of blatant hypocrisy have you witnessed in

your life?

How do these examples serve as a warning to you about

the danger of failing to obey God completely?

20 Leader Guide
2. Our downfall is in our rationalization of
disobedience (1 Sam. 15:16-21). For Further
Observe Sauls hypocrisy and how it is similar to ours (leader p. 24). Then Discussion
read 1 Samuel 15:16-21. Point out how Sauls desire to make a name for What does the
rationalizing of our sin
himself led him to spare Agag (leader p. 25; PSG p. 22). say about our ability to
deceive ourselves?
Notice how Samuel put Sauls sin in the context of Gods What steps can we take
faithfulness to him. How can reminders of Gods goodness to prevent ourselves
help us see the ugliness of our sin? from becoming like Saul,
who allowed himself
to see disobedience
State that everyone has a king, something that they must have to feel happy as obedience?
and secure. Explain that rather than repent from such idols, we sometimes
rationalize our sins and deceive ourselves (leader pp. 25-26; PSG p. 23).

What are some ways you have seen yourself or others For Further
justify or rationalize sin? Discussion
How does the gospel
free us from the desire
3. Our downfall is in our desire for human for disobedience and
approval (1 Sam. 15:22-31). at the same time free
us from the burden of
Read 1 Samuel 15:22-31. Use the extreme illustration of Satan worship to perfect obedience?
describe how God sees conditional obedience. Provide some examples of how
we cover over rebellion with rituals (leader pp. 27-28; PSG pp. 24-25).

Why do you think we are so prone to partial obedience

instead of complete obedience to Gods commands?

Note how the passage ends with apparent repentance from Saul but that the
unfolding story tells us otherwise. He was more concerned about his public Christ Connection: Sauls
status than with the agrancy of his oense before God (leader pp. 28-29; kingship could not last
because he rejected Gods
PSG pp. 25-26). Accentuate how this moment was a dening one in Sauls word. Israel needed a
life (leader p. 29). lasting kingdom ruled by
Someone who would obey
God fully. Through the
How can we tell the difference between true repentance perfect obedience of Jesus,
over sin and mere regret over sins consequences? God would establish His
rule over His people forever.
How can you discern the difference between repentance ........................................................
and regret in your own heart? Missional Application:
God calls us to renounce
our hypocritical displays
Conclusion of righteousness and to
Recap how Saul hardened himself against Gods grace. Tell how King Jesus submit fully to His purpose
and plan so that the world
demonstrated wholehearted obedience perfectly for us (leader p. 29; PSG p. 26). will see His redemption.
Apply the truths of this session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 27).

Session 2 21
 Expanded Session Content

The Downfall of
Israels First King
Session 2

Introduction
Voices from In the previous session, we saw that Israel demanded a king, a demand
Church History that God saw as a betrayal of His authority. Yet God gave the people what
The best measure they asked for when He chose Saul as the peoples rst king. Saul was, in
of a spiritual life is many ways, everything you would want in a king. He was a great military
not its ecstasies, but
its obedience. 1 leader; he was tall and well built. Saul was Mr. Israel.
Oswald Chambers Sauls rule began well, and it seemed like his heart was in the right
(1874-1917) place. But in the passages we will study in this session, we observe Sauls
faulty and wavering obedience. Saul obeyed God, but only halfway. He
followed Gods instruction, but not totally. His obedience was
compromised, not wholehearted.

Think back to when you were a kid, or consider the children

you interact with regularly. What are some instructions that
a child is likely to obey only halfheartedly?

What are the signs that a childs obedience

is compromised?

The dierence between true obedience and compromise is a matter of

the heart. In Sauls story, we see the anatomy of disobediencefrom its
early inception to full-blown rebellion. Most Christians dont set out at the
start of our day to reject God altogether. So how do we end up so distant
from where God has called us to be? And what are the steps that get us
there? King Sauls demise can be a windowand a warninginto our
own rebellious hearts and minds.

Session Summary
In this session we witness the downfall of King Saul and his choice
to rebel against God. In Sauls story, we see how the failure to obey God
completely leads us to rationalize and justify our disobedience, a sin that
is compounded by the desire for human approval rather than divine grace.
Halfhearted obedience is just another form of disobedience, and so, God
calls us to renounce our hypocritical displays of righteousness and to
submit fully to His purpose and plan.

22 Leader Guide
1. Our downfall is in our failure to obey God
completely (1 Sam. 15:10-15). Further
First Samuel 15 opens with God giving a clear command to King Saul Commentary
to conquer the Amalekites and not spare anyone or anythingnot even The verb regret with God
the animals. This was to fulll Gods word to Moses and Joshua that the as its subject occurs only
here and in Genesis 6:7,
Amalekites would be destroyed for their attack on the Israelites in the where it denotes Gods
wilderness after they left Egyptfor they did not fear God (Ex. 17:14; regrets over making
humanity and His ultimate
Deut. 25:17-19). But Saul refused to follow Gods instructions completely. decision to bring the great
He did conquer the Amalekites, but he did not follow through with ood. In both cases, people
made wrong moral choices,
everything God told him to do. So, God spoke to the prophet Samuel. and Gods foreknowledge
meant He knew what
10
people would do.
The word of the LORD came to Samuel: 11 I regret that I have Nonetheless, it pained Him
made Saul king, for he has turned back from following me and has not to see the disobedience
come to pass. The
performed my commandments. And Samuel was angry, and he cried to word translated turned
the LORD all night. 12 And Samuel rose early to meet Saul in the morning. away commonly means
repent when it speaks
And it was told Samuel, Saul came to Carmel, and behold, he set up of turning away from
a monument for himself and turned and passed on and went down to sin, but here it describes
Sauls conscious decision
Gilgal. 13 And Samuel came to Saul, and Saul said to him, Blessed be to cease following
you to the LORD. I have performed the commandment of the LORD. 14 And the Lord. Samuel was
frustrated by Sauls failing
Samuel said, What then is this bleating of the sheep in my ears and the kingship, particularly as
lowing of the oxen that I hear? 15 Saul said, They have brought them he remembered he had
anointed him (10:1). Saul
from the Amalekites, for the people spared the best of the sheep and of had indeed turned out to
the oxen to sacrice to the LORD your God, and the rest we have devoted be a king just like the ones
of all the other nations
to destruction. (8:5,20), but the people
had persisted in their
request despite his sober
I regret This seems like a strange emotion to attribute to God, warnings (8:11-18). 2
doesnt it? The Hebrew word is sometimes even translated repent. What Bryan E. Beyer,
does it mean for God to regret a past decision, or even worse, to repent of HCSB Study Bible
something He has done?
Some theologians have decided there must be limits on Gods
knowledge, as if this story must prove that even God can be caught o
guard! But this position is out of line with the consistent witness of the
church through the ages, and most importantly, it does not do justice to
this text. After all, a quick glance ahead to 1 Samuel 15:29 reveals God
saying, The Glory of Israel will not lie or have regret, for he is not a man,
that he should have regret.
When God uses language like I regret, He is speaking in terms
we can understand. It means that He truly feels the pain of our current
circumstances, not that He is unaware of the future. There is a sense in
which God has regrets, but it diers from the way humans experience this
emotion. God feels sadness and regret for our sake when our decisions are
harmful, but He does not share the pervasive human sentiment of wishing
He could just go back and x a past mistake.

Session 2 23
 This passage gives two reasons for Gods emotion of
regret: Saul turned away from following Him and he did not
Voices from obey His instructions. How are these two reasons related?
Church History
When [Saul] was little
with himself, he was
God delivered the unsavory news about Sauls disobedience to Samuel,
great with God. But when who was rightfully angry. It moved him to cry and pray all night long and
he appeared great with
himself, he was little
to go to Saul at the rst chance he had, early the next morning.
with God. 3 When Samuel arrived, Saul was throwing his victory party. Before he
Gregory the Great even arrived, word had come to Samuel that Saul had set up a monument
(circa 540-604
elsewhereto himselfin honor of his recent victory. Not only had
Saul disregarded the clear command of God, but he was in the midst of
recasting the entire battle to make it about himself.
99 Essential When Saul greeted Samuel, he boasted of his obedience. Take a
Christian Doctrines moment and consider the craziness of this scene. The evidence of his
10. God Is Unchanging disobedience was literally all around him: sheep making noises and the air
Gods being and attributes, lled with the smell of livestock. Yet he carried himself with the air of
along with the ethical approval. Thats right, he said proudly, I am faithfully following
commitments He has
given, cannot change. the Lord.
This means, among We shouldnt simply look at Saul and shake our heads. This story
other things, that God
is committed to being doesnt let us o the hook. How many of us show up at worship services
God and that He is the every weekend acting as if everything is just ne between God and us?
same yesterday, today,
and forever. Gods How many of us sing songs and put on a good show? Meanwhile, the
unchanging nature is evidence of our disobedience is all around us. Our spouse, our children,
good news for Christians,
for it guarantees that our roommates or coworkersthey know our hypocrisy. They see our
God does not change His halfhearted obedience as the disobedience it truly is.
mind or go back on His
promises. Christians can
nd assurance and peace What examples of blatant hypocrisy have you witnessed in
of mind in knowing that your life?
the God who brought
them out of darkness into
His marvelous light is the How do these examples serve as a warning to you about
God who will carry them the danger of failing to obey God completely?
through into eternity.

2. Our downfall is in our rationalization of

disobedience (1 Sam. 15:16-21).
We all get caught in our sin. We are all hypocrites from time to time.
But what we do next, when the Holy Spirit confronts us, is of life-or-death
importance. At this point, Saul still had an opening, a chance to choose
a path toward repentance. Instead, he hardened his heart and began to
rationalize his misbehavior.
Notice earlier what Saul said about the sheep and the best of the
livestock (v. 15). Saul was the one who spearheaded this endeavor, yet he
decided to shift blame to the people (They have brought them). Not
only that, but like Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, he tried to pin
this back on God. The people spared the best sheep and cattle to sacrifice
to God! Such a worthy goal must justify the disobedience, right?

24 Leader Guide
16
Then Samuel said to Saul, Stop! I will tell you what the LORD said to
me this night. And he said to him, Speak. Further
17
And Samuel said, Though you are little in your own eyes, are Commentary
you not the head of the tribes of Israel? The LORD anointed you king over In the three verses that
Israel. 18 And the LORD sent you on a mission and said, Go, devote to follow, Samuel reminded
the king that though he
destruction the sinners, the Amalekites, and ght against them until was now head of the tribes
they are consumed. 19 Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD? of Israel (v. 17), he could
take no credit for it. It was
Why did you pounce on the spoil and do what was evil in the sight of the Lord who had taken
the LORD? 20 And Saul said to Samuel, I have obeyed the voice of the him from being a nobody
to being king over Israel
LORD. I have gone on the mission on which the LORD sent me. I have (v. 17). The Lord gave Saul
brought Agag the king of Amalek, and I have devoted the Amalekites to that position so that he
might serve as the Lords
destruction. 21 But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the best agent in carrying out the
of the things devoted to destruction, to sacrice to the LORD your God mission (v. 18) to wipe out
the wicked Amalekites.
in Gilgal. Unfortunately, instead of
destroying wickedness,
Saul increased it by doing
Though you are little in your own eyes, Samuel told Saul, are you evil in the eyes of the LORD
not the head of the tribes of Israel? The L anointed you king over (v. 19). Saul, however, did
not see it that way. As
Israel (v. 17). Samuel brought Saul back to the beginning, pointing out far as he was concerned,
that Saul was nothing when God decided to give him an entire kingdom. he did obey the LORD
(v. 20). Indeed, he went
He said, in essence, God made you everything, Saul! Was that not on the Lords mission and
enough for you? After all that God has given you, you feel like you need carried out a campaign
against the Amalekites
more than that? marked by acts of herem
Saul was after a name for himself, his own kingdom, and his own (completely destroyed
the Amalekites)Samuel,
stature. That was why he spared Agag and kept him prisoner. Refusing as Gods unyielding
to kill Agag was not an act of mercy. No, having an enemy king in your spiritual advocate, could
not permit Gods primary
prison was an enormous status boost. In those days, conquering kings political and military
would frequently parade all of the kings they had capturedemaciated representative to get by
with only partial obedience.
and in chainsas a sign to the world: I am the conquering king. I am Partial obedience was in
the king of kings. Like a conquering king, Saul paraded the spoils of war fact disobedience. Sauls
sin was the sin of Achan,
in front of his people, the people he so desperately sought the approval of. who had also spared
the choicest of herem
Notice how Samuel put Sauls sin in the context of Gods plunder from destruction
(cf. Josh. 7:21). Achan and
faithfulness to him. How can reminders of Gods goodness his family died for his sin;
help us see the ugliness of our sin? Sauls sin would bring him
misery and death and
would cause his familys
Everyone has a king, something that they crave and must have loss of kingship. 4
to feel happy and secure. Even kings have kings. For Saul, personal Robert D. Bergen
recognition was his king. It fueled his rebellion. Sin usually grows out of
some deep soul dissatisfaction, something we feel like we must have for a
happy and secure life.
The man who must have respect compromises his morals for the
sake of his peers. The woman who must have creature comforts will do
everything she can to move into a larger house, and she will do everything
possible to avoid the discomfort of being on mission for Gods kingdom.

Session 2 25

Voices from
Church History
Consider the danger of
being hardened by the
deceitfulness of sin
the hardening of your
heart, the searing of your
conscience, the blinding
of your mind, the dulling
of your affections, and
the deceiving of your
whole soul. 5
John Owen (1616-1683)
Further
Commentary
The instructions for the
complete destruction of
Israels enemies are found
in Deuteronomy 7:2-5;
20:16-18. Each of these
texts call for the complete
annihilation of the people of
Canaan. The reason for this
ruthlessness is religious.
Both in Deuteronomy 7 and
20, Israel was to be ruthless
with the people of Canaan
because of the possibility of
spiritual contamination. If
the people of Canaan were
allowed to live, then Israel
would abandon Yahweh
and would follow foreign
gods (Deut. 7:4; 20:18).
That Israel, who sinned
often, was used as Gods
instrument of judgment
may seem unfair to you.
Therefore, to understand
that Israel was not chosen
because of their number
(Deut. 7:7-8) or because
of their moral superiority
(Deut. 9:5), but because
God made a commitment
to Abraham to raise up
a nation to evangelize
the world (Gen. 12:1-4) is
important. Even Israel felt
the sting of Gods judgment
later in their history, when
they endured a 70-year
exile in Babylon. 6
Rick Byargeon,
BiblicalIllustrator
In all such situations, our real problem, like Sauls, is that our soul is
not satised in the Lord. Our idolatrous, greedy desire for something other
than God is what fuels our disobedience. Until we depose these false kings
and deal with our idolatry, we will never gain victory over sin as we seek to
surrender to God. Furthermore, we will nd all sorts of ways to rationalize
and justify our halfhearted obedience.
Saul succumbed to the temptation of following the wrong narrative.
He constructed a narrative that excused his sin: blaming others for his
disobedience, attempting to make up for his mistakes with other sacrices,
and generally asserting that he was still a pretty good individual. The
revisionist history owed out of Sauls mouth so freely that it seems he
believed the deceitful story he had crafted to dupe others. He fell prey to
his own web of lies.
When confronted with our sin, we all nd ourselves in situations
similar to Sauls. Like Saul, we may rationalize our disobedience and
follow a non-biblical narrative. We can try to blame others for our
disobedience, make up for our mistakes by giving extra money to the
church, or point out that at least we are not as bad as that guy. But this is a
path without an exit. Once we begin to rationalize, we begin to spin the
web of our own demise, deceiving ourselves until, like Samuels robe in the
hands of Saul, our lives are torn in two (15:27-28).
God does not want our rationalizations; He wants our repentance.
He does not want our sacrices; He wants our submission. The choice
has passed for Saul, but not for us. The choice between self-deception and
repentancebetween death and lifestands before each of us even today.
What are some ways you have seen yourself or others
justify or rationalize sin?
3. Our downfall is in our desire for human
approval (1 Sam. 15:22-31).
Samuel saw through Sauls revisionist history. Saul had not been
strong-armed into sparing some of the spoils; hed pounced on them at the
rst opportunity. And when Saul responded that he did most of what God
had asked, Samuel red back, God is not nearly as thrilled with this token
offering, Saul, as you might hope.
The same could be said for many people sitting in our churches today.
God is not red up about people simply singing some songs and giving
some of their money. What thrills God is a heart that obeys Him. In other
words, what thrills God is a surrendered heart that rests in His grace, not
in empty obedience rooted in a desire for human approval.

26 Leader Guide
22
And Samuel said,
Has the LORD as great delight in burnt oerings and sacrices, Further
as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Commentary
Behold, to obey is better than sacrice, In a memorable prophetic
and to listen than the fat of rams. utterance, Samuel
23 pronounces for all time
For rebellion is as the sin of divination, the futility of attempting
and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. to rely on ritual sacrice
when what is required is
Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, obedience. No ceremonial
he has also rejected you from being king. can make up for a
24 rebellious attitude to God
Saul said to Samuel, I have sinned, for I have transgressed and his commandments,
the commandment of the LORD and your words, because I feared the because obstinate
resistance to God exalts
people and obeyed their voice. 25 Now therefore, please pardon my sin self-will to the place of
and return with me that I may bow before the LORD. 26 And Samuel authority, which belongs
only to God. That is why
said to Saul, I will not return with you. For you have rejected the it is as bad as divination
word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you from being king (by evil spirits), and
tantamount to idolatry,
over Israel. 27 As Samuel turned to go away, Saul seized the skirt of for another god, self, has
his robe, and it tore. 28 And usurped his placeAt last
Saul admits that he is in
Samuel said to him, The the wrong, but he does not
LORD has torn the kingdom take with full seriousness
the condemnation
of Israel from you this pronounced by Samuel.
day and has given it to a Surely in the circumstances
he can be forgiven and
neighbor of yours, who is continue in office? In
better than you. 29 And also his admission, I have
transgressed (Heb. bart)
the Glory of Israel will not the commandment,
lie or have regret, for he is transgressed renders an
ordinary word which means
not a man, that he should literally to pass over (we
have regret. 30 Then he said, should say, I overlooked),
though put in this way
I have sinned; yet honor me the contradiction in
now before the elders of my terms becomes obvious.
Saul had felt the need of
people and before Israel, and return with me, that I may bow before popular support, and had
the LORD your God. 31 So Samuel turned back after Saul, and Saul not been able to resist
the temptation to curry
bowed before the LORD. favour by permitting some
material gain from the
victory. Samuel repeats
Imagine being invited over to a friends house for dinner. After eating, his statement of Sauls
just as you are about to leave, he or she says, So glad you came tonight, rejection, which cannot
be repealed. Saul must
but before you go, I want to invite you upstairs with me. Ive got a live with the results of his
pentagram and some candles spread out on the oor, and I thought we own decisions. 7
could enjoy some temple prostitutes, sacrice a few goats, and generally Joyce G. Baldwin
just oer ourselves to Satan. Dont worry, well go to church on Sunday,
just like normal. How would you react to that? With revulsion, of course,
and rightly so. And that is precisely how God reacts to our halfhearted
obedience. According to Samuel, witchcraft-level rebellion is seen in
partial or conditional or delayed obedience.

Session 2 27
 Unfortunately, many people in our churches are giving less than
Voices from 100-percent obedience, just like Saul, and are completely at peace with
Church History it. Some are cheating on their taxes or cheating on their school exams.
Why, then, was Saul not Unmarried couples are sleeping with one another under the excuse of
considered t to be told, being truly in love. Some people are holding on to bitterness, refusing to
as David was, that the
Lord had pardoned his sin? forgive someone they know they should forgive. Many have heard a call to
Is there favoritism with missions but are refusing to answer.
God? Far from it! While to
the human ear the words Those of us who are religious are often tempted to cover over rebellion
were the same, the divine with rituals, to substitute ceremony for surrender. We disobey in one area
eye saw a difference in
the heart. 8 and try to make it up to God with some oering in another area. So we
Augustine (354-430) refuse the call to missions, but we resolve to tithe heavily in our local
church. Or we refuse to break o the relationship with an unbeliever, but
we resolve to share Christ with him or her instead. Or we refuse to give
our money to Gods mission, but we resolve to tithe of our time.
Empty religion tries to pay God o so that people can maintain
control of their lives. Empty religion wants to obey God but on its own
termsterms which mean partial, delayed, or conditional obedience. But
all of these are just various forms of disobedience.

Why do you think we are so prone to partial obedience

instead of complete obedience to Gods commands?

This passage ends with a confession from Saul. It looks like

repentance. But as we see in the unfolding story, Saul never truly turned
back to God. Also, the phrase in verse 25 indicated that Saul was still
thinking of the whole situation incorrectly. Saul wanted to worship the
L, but he was not thinking of singing some God-songs together or
washing someone elses feet. Saul wanted to have his national thanksgiving
sacrice on behalf of the victory. He wanted a big ceremony.
Samuel was the only one who could oer an ocial worship
ceremony. If Samuel refused, this would be a major loss of face for Saul.
Sadly, it seemed this was what Saul was so worried about. His main
concern was still how he looked in the eyes of the people. He was still
concerned about his status.
Too many of us are more worried about being caught in our sin than
about the agrancy of the oense before God. We would be embarrassed
if our sin were exposed, but we completely ignore the fact that the Person
most oended, most involvedGod Himselfsees and knows our
sin completely.

28 Leader Guide
 You must admit that the Bible has some vivid screenwriting. Imagine
Samuel turning to leave, when Saul grabs his robe. Rip! Samuel takes one Voices from
look at his torn hem and says, God has torn the kingdom away from you, the Church
fool, and given it to a better neighbor of yours. That neighbor would turn Instead of being struck
out to be King David. David was not a perfect king, but he knew how to with the awfulness of
his sin, the guilt of which
repent, and he knew how to let repentance be about Gods kingdom, not can be taken away by
his own. God alone, Saul is more
concerned with his
This moment was a dening one in Sauls life. From this point on, he standing with the people
will plummet into an epic tailspin. Instead of repenting, Saul will harden and the elders. 9
himself further. In response, the Spirit of God departs from him. The David Toshio Tsumura
absence of God and His approval leaves Saul with an enormous void in his
life, and jealousy consumes him. The slightest criticism will send him into
a violent rage. He will spend years of his life tracking David around in the
wilderness, trying to kill a man who continually goes out of his way to
honor him.

How can we tell the difference between true repentance

over sin and mere regret over sins consequences?

How can you discern the difference between repentance

and regret in your own heart?

Conclusion
Earlier we saw how Samuel reminded Saul that God made him a king
when he had been a nobody. Saul should have responded in gratitude
because of Gods amazing grace. He should have allowed the value of
Gods gift to him to break the captivating power of sin over his life.
Instead, he hardened himself against Gods grace.
The great news of the gospel is that Christ, unlike King Saul,
demonstrated wholehearted obedience perfectly for us. He died in our
place, suering the penalty for Satan worshipers. He died the witchs
death so we could have the saints acceptance. His obedience earns our
acceptance before God, the one Person whose opinion matters more
than any otherif we will receive it. And when we do, the power
of disobedience in our lives is broken, setting us free from anxieties,
dissatisfaction, insecurity, and fear.

CHRIST CONNECTION: Sauls kingship could not last because

he rejected Gods word. Israel needed a lasting kingdom ruled
by Someone who would obey God fully. Through the perfect
obedience of Jesus, God would establish His rule over His
people forever.

Session 2 29
 Additional Resources

The Downfall of
Israels First King
References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry
1. Oswald Chambers, in The Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
Quotable Oswald Chambers,
comp. and ed. David McCasland Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
(Oswald Chambers Publications
Association, 2008), 176.
blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
2. Bryan E. Beyer, in HCSB Study
Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010),
467, n. 15:11. Study Material
3. Gregory the Great, Pastoral
Care, 2.6, quoted in Joshua, Judges, - Samuel and SaulEpisode 5, Act 1 from Telling Gods Story by
Ruth, 12 Samuel, ed. John R.
Franke, vol. IV in Ancient Christian Preben Vang and Terry G. Carter
Commentary on Scripture: Old
Testament (Downers Grove: IVP,
2005), 256.
- The Irrepressible Force of Secret SinArticle by Chris Castaldo; nd a
4. Robert D. Bergen, 1,2Samuel, link to this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
vol. 7 in The New American
Commentary (Nashville: B&H, - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including Sauls Kingship: Its Making
2002) [eBook on WORDsearch].
5. John Owen, The Mortication of and Unmaking, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter,
Sin (Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth,
2008 reprint), 68-69.
at LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
6. Rick Byargeon, Devoted to
Destruction, Biblical Illustrator
(Spring 2001): 66-67. Sermon Podcast
7. Joyce G. Baldwin, 1and 2Samuel,
vol. 8 in Tyndale Old Testament
Commentaries (Downers Grove: Tom Schreiner: To Obey Is Better Than Sacrice
IVP, 1998), 124.
8. Augustine, Against Faustus,
A Manichaean, 22.67, quoted in Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 12 Samuel,
ed. John R. Franke, vol. IV in Ancient
Christian Commentary on Scripture:
Old Testament, 258.
9. David Toshio Tsumura, in ESV Tip of the Week
Study Bible (Wheaton: Crossway,
2008), 516, n. 15:24-26.
10. Bill Donahue and Steve Gladen,
Learning Styles
Building Biblical Community
(Nashville: LifeWay, 2010), 24-25. Each of us has at least one primary learning style. It is the method we tend
to use when gathering new information or learning a new skill. We use our
learning style at work, school, and in other settings. As a teacher, it is wise
to recognize and even accommodate the variety of learning styles.
Visual (Sight): You enjoy watching someone do something, or you can
learn by looking closely at the desired result or outcome (like the photo of
a desk you want to build).
Auditory (Hearing): You like to have someone describe the information
or tell you the steps to take.
Kinesthetic (Touch): You need to get your hands on it and tinker around
with it in order to understand how it works.
Experiential (Feel): You want to experience it rsthand, feeling the
emotions as well as observing the details. (Youd rather spend the night in
a homeless shelter than watch a documentary on how one works.) 10

30 Leader Guide
 SESSION 3

The King Who

Fights for His People
Summary and Goal

After God rejected Saul as king, He directed the prophet Samuel to anoint David, the son of Jesse.
In the story of David, we see that God does not judge people based on worldly expectations. Davids
battle against Goliath is an example of a kings trust in the Lords deliverance and of Gods faithfulness
to accomplish a decisive victory for His people. Gods people needed a warrior-king to defeat the
enemy on their behalf, and in the story of David, we see glimpses of the promised King we need,
as well as an example of obeying God from a heart on re for Him.

Main Passages
1 Samuel 16:1-13
1 Samuel 17:20-26,33-37,45-51

Session Outline
1. Gods king does not line up with worldly expectations (1 Sam. 16:1-13).
2. Gods king trusts in the Lords deliverance (1 Sam. 17:20-26,33-37).
3. Gods king accomplishes a decisive victory for His people (1 Sam. 17:45-51).

Theological Theme
Gods people need a warrior-king who will defeat the enemy on their behalf.

Christ Connection
In David we see a picture of courageous faith in Gods power. We also catch a glimpse of the bigger
story of the Bible and the coming King whom no one would have expected or picked to win the
victory, but through His death and resurrection, He is mighty to save.

Missional Application
As Gods people who have been forgiven through the power of the cross, we dont pursue the nations
in judgment but with the message of grace, that all may hear the good news and be swept up into the
glorious love and grace of God.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 31

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Introduction Option
Set the tone for the session
by showing the video clip
from the movie The Pursuit
of Happyness where Will
Smiths character, Chris,
must go to an interview
for a prestigious job in
dirty street clothes. Use
the scene to establish
the idea that we should
not judge people by
worldly expectations.
www.wingclips.com/
movie-clips/the-pursuit-
of-happyness/internship-
interview
For Further
Discussion
How do most people
measure a successful life?
How does this measure up
against Gods denition of a
successful life?
32 Leader Guide
Session Plan
The King Who
Fights for His People
Session 3
Introduction
Begin by noting the transition from Saul to David. Tell how David, the
shepherd boy, was not the king anyone would expect but would go on to be a
great man of God (leader p. 34; personal study guide [PSG] p. 28).
People love stories and movies about the underdog
winning a victory. What is the biggest underdog victory
youve witnessed?
What emotions and thoughts stir up inside you when you
witness a surprising and unexpected victory?
Summarize this session on the story of David, particularly Samuels
anointing of him and his decisive defeat of Goliath on behalf of Gods people
(leader p. 34; PSG pp. 28-29).
1. Gods king does not line up with worldly
expectations (1 Sam. 16:1-13).
Using Pack Item 2: Samuels Life and the leader content, provide the
context for 1 Samuel 16:1-13 (leader p. 35); then read the passage. Highlight
Samuels evaluation of Eliab and how this diered from Gods standards
(leader pp. 35-36; PSG pp. 29-30).
How is the truth that God looks on the heart both bad
news and good news for you?
Mention how God looks at the heart in the case of David and his brothers,
meaning we cannot determine Gods choice by outward appearance. Note
the pattern of Gods using the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary
(leader pp. 36-37; PSG p. 30). Use Pack Item 3: Seeing Jesus in the Kingdom
to make this connection between Davids and Jesus appearances.
What are some snap judgments we tend to make about
others based on their appearance or social status?
How does this account warn us against misjudging others?
2. Gods king trusts in the Lords deliverance
(1 Sam. 17:20-26,33-37). Point 2 Option
Set the context for 1 Samuel 17:20-26 (leader p. 37), and then read the passage. Before the group meets,
enlist a group member to
Highlight Davids motivations by noting his two questions (leader pp. 37-38; share a testimony of how
PSG p. 31). Contrast Davids concern for Gods glory with the unbelief God has used everyday life
experiences to hone his or
prevalent among the Israelites as they observed Goliath (leader p. 38). her skills for how he or she
is presently serving Him.
What are ways we (unintentionally or not) dampen the Allow 3-4 minutes for this
person to share.
belief of others in the power of God?

Point out the similarity between Sauls words and tone and Davids brothers.
Then read 1 Samuel 17:33-37. Referring to Pack Item 4: Davids Enemies
For Further
(lion/bear), explain why David was unfazed despite the discouragement Discussion
around him (leader p. 38; PSG p. 32). Emphasize how God uses everyday life
Why is it important that
to hone our skills in serving Him (leader pp. 38-39). we do not see the David-
Goliath encounter as
mainly an underdog story?
What pasture are you in right now or have you
experienced in the past? How can we misrepresent
the gospel by identifying
ourselves with David in the
What does it look like for you to faithfully trust God through story rather than with the
that experience? intimidated Israelites?

3. Gods king accomplishes a decisive victory

for His people (1 Sam. 17:45-51).
Ask a volunteer to read 1 Samuel 17:45-51. Show how rather than seeing
ourselves as David in this story, we should recognize that we are like the
children of Israel praying for our representative ghter to bring the victory for
our side (leader pp. 39-40; PSG pp. 33-34).
Christ Connection: In
Why is it important that David waged his battle against David we see a picture of
Goliath in the name of the Lord rather than in his courageous faith in Gods
power. We also catch a
own power? glimpse of the bigger story
of the Bible and the coming
King whom no one would
Read the quote from Pack Item 5: Our Spiritual David. Identify how the have expected or picked to
story not only shows that Israel needed a representative to defeat Goliath win the victory, but through
His death and resurrection,
but also prepares the way for God to raise up another King who would He is mighty to save.
accomplish another decisive victoryKing Jesus (leader p. 41; PSG p. 34).
........................................................
Break into smaller groups of 2-3 and allow several minutes for groups to discuss
Missional Application: As
the questions in the table in the PSG. After the group reconvenes, call for some Gods people who have
responses (leader p. 41; PSG p. 35). been forgiven through the
power of the cross, we
dont pursue the nations
Conclusion in judgment but with the
message of grace, that all
Clarify how Davids ghting for his people ts into the Bibles big picture of a may hear the good news
later KingJesuscoming to achieve the decisive victory for us (leader p. 41; and be swept up into the
glorious love and grace
PSG p. 35). Apply the truths of this session with His Mission, Your Mission of God.
(PSG p. 36).

Session 3 33
 Expanded Session Content

The King Who

Fights for His People
Session 3

Introduction
Voices from In the previous session, we saw how Israels rst king failed to live up
the Church to Gods standard and the expectations of Gods people. But in the middle
The text calls us not to of the Book of 1 Samuel, after the prophet Samuel confronted Saul about
admire David the man and his disobedience, we see the narrative transition from the story of Saul to
no more, but to ponder
what the Spirit of God may the story of David.
do with one person. 1 We rst see David as a shepherd boycertainly not the king anyone
D. A. Carson would expect. He would go on to be a great man of God, but his rst
entrance onto the scene was hardly impressive. In every way, he was
to put it bluntlyordinary. But he would become the kind of king who
trusts in Gods provision for his success and nds victory. And perhaps in
one of the most famous Bible stories of all time, David becomes the young
champion to bring down a giant.

People love stories and movies about the underdog

winning a victory. What is the biggest underdog victory
youve witnessed?

What emotions and thoughts stir up inside you when you

witness a surprising and unexpected victory?

Session Summary
In this session, we see how, after God rejected Saul as king, He
directed the prophet Samuel to anoint David, the son of Jesse. In the
story of David, we see that God does not judge people based on worldly
expectations. Davids battle against Goliath is an example of a kings trust
in the Lords deliverance and of Gods faithfulness to accomplish a decisive
victory for His people. Gods people needed a warrior-king to defeat the
enemy on their behalf, and in the story of David, we see glimpses of the
promised King we need, as well as an example of obeying God from a
heart on re for Him.

34 Leader Guide
1. Gods king does not line up with worldly
expectations (1 Sam. 16:1-13). Further
The story picks up with the prophet Samuel in deep distress because of Commentary
the sin of Saul. After all, Samuel had anointed him, and Saul had seemed Sauls work for God had
ended, but Gods work
like such a promising prospect. But the king turned out to be nothing like would go on. The Lord
what Samuel had hoped for. Saul was faithful only to himself, and the had already sought out a
man after his own heart
kings sin grieved the prophet. and appointed him leader
of his people (13:14).
1
The LORD said to Samuel, How long will you grieve over Saul, since This chapter portrays
the unfolding of Gods
I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, plan as it centered in the
and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for person of David. At one
level this chapter presents
myself a king among his sons. 2 And Samuel said, How can I go? If Saul an interesting historical
hears it, he will kill me. And the LORD said, Take a heifer with you and narrative about how one
of Sauls adversaries
say, I have come to sacrice to the LORD. 3 And invite Jesse to the sacrice, outwitted the king to
and I will show you what you shall do. And you shall anoint for me him anoint a royal rival. But
the writers intention was
whom I declare to you. 4 Samuel did what the LORD commanded and clearly to present more
came to Bethlehem. The elders of the city came to meet him trembling than historical fact. This
chapter is not so much
and said, Do you come peaceably? 5 And he said, Peaceably; I have about Samuel and David as
come to sacrice to the LORD. Consecrate yourselves, and come with me to it is about God. It portrays
the Lords innite and
the sacrice. And he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to effortless superiority to all
the sacrice. things human. The ways of
the Lord confound even the
6
When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, Surely the greatest spiritual intellects
LORDs anointed is before him. 7 But the LORD said to Samuel, Do not and frustrate all earthly
forces that would stand
look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have in his way. This chapter
rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the provides one of the most
fascinating examples of
outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart. 8 Then Jesse called the Lords inclination to
Abinadab and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, Neither has choose the lowly things of
this world and the despised
the LORD chosen this one. 9 Then Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he thingsand the things
said, Neither has the LORD chosen this one. 10 And Jesse made seven of that are notto nullify the
things that are (1 Cor. 1:28).
his sons pass before Samuel. And Samuel said to Jesse, The LORD has not When this story concludes,
chosen these. 11 Then Samuel said to Jesse, Are all your sons here? And an unlettered rural
shepherd boy has become
he said, There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the the Lords anointed
sheep. And Samuel said to Jesse, Send and get him, for we will not sit a brave man and a warrior
(v. 18) who uses his
down till he comes here. 12 And he sent and brought him in. Now he was supernaturally enhanced
ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome. And the LORD said, abilities to overpower even
evil spirits. 2
Arise, anoint him, for this is he. 13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil
Robert D. Bergen
and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the LORD
rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and
went to Ramah.

Session 3 35

Voices from
the Church
It is often in our
weaknesses that Gods
strength is most clearly
perceived, and it is often
in doing something the
world sees as backwards
that we are taking spiritual
steps forward. 3
Trevin Wax
36 Leader Guide
God sent Samuel on a mission to nd the next king of Israel. Not
surprisingly, Samuel was more than a little reluctant to go out anointing
a new king, knowing how passionate the current king was about his own
kingdom and name and honor. Gods plan sounded like a recipe for disaster.
But Samuel ordered a consecration for the sacrice, in which each
member of the community oered themselves to God. This was the
perfect moment for Samuel to inspect the sons of Jesse, who would come
marching by him in succession.
Eliab was the oldest of Jesses sons, so he came forward rst, looking as
kingly as possible. Samuel took one look at him and thought he had found
his manno doubt he was good-looking, tall, and strong. This must be
kingly material. God, however, was unimpressed. Eliabs appearance,
height, and stature did not even register as relevant qualities. God never
looks down from heaven to judge us by human standards. His criteria are
dierent than what most of us value because He looks to the heart.
How is the truth that God looks on the heart both bad
news and good news for you?
In one sense, this is good news. Most of us have tried to measure up to
the worlds standards, but few people ever feel as if they have been successful.
The stress of trying to have the perfect body, a successful career, a conict-
free familyall of these have eluded us. It comes as refreshing, freeing news
that God is not particularly concerned with our earthly successes.
In another sense, though, this is problematic. Who among us has the
kind of heart that God would want? Our outward appearance may not be
top-notch, but if we are honest with ourselves, our heart condition is rarely
much better. We spend hours caring for our bodies (decaying as they are)
or on our rsums (trivial as they are in light of eternity), but many of us
never think about the quality of our hearts. If that is the case, then we are
more concerned with the approval of others than the approval of God.
God looks at the heart. We are not given specic reasons why Eliab,
Abinadab, Shammah, and the rest were rejected. Outwardly, they may have
seemed qualied, but God weighed their hearts and found them lacking.
One by one, Jesse trotted out his sons, and one by one, Samuel shot them
down. This is an Old Testament version of Cinderella, as the brothers
fruitlessly tried to cram themselves into the glass slipper of Israels kingship.
Samuel nally asked about the youngest son. David was a shepherd,
which was not a coveted position in Israel. He was also the smallest,
perhaps to the point that even his father, Jesse, didnt think his youngest
son could be a king. The text implies that David was outwardly
unimpressive, even to those who knew him best; yet he was the one
God chose!
 David would go on to lead an extraordinary life, but we must not miss the
truth that every extraordinary event in his life happened in spite of his own Further
ordinariness. David had access to the power of an extraordinary God in part Commentary
because he did not think he was extraordinary in himself. This is in strong Davids words indicate
contrast to Saul, who was fully convinced of his own greatness, a folly that led he had not heard the
announcement from
Gods Spirit away from him and brought him crashing back down to earth. Sauls assistant (v. 25). The
word disgrace is related
What are some snap judgments we tend to make about to defy (vv. 10,25-26,36).
Uncircumcised denotes
others based on their appearance or social status? someone outside Gods
covenant. David saw
How does this account warn us against misjudging others? the threat as not merely
political (cp. v. 8) but
theological. The armies of
2. Gods king trusts in the Lords deliverance the living God, ironically,
were terried, but to David
(1 Sam. 17:20-26,33-37). Gods honor was at stake
We pick up the story again in 1 Samuel 17, when Jesse sent David out Saul rejected Davids bold
offer because David was
to visit his brothers on the battleeld. Jesse must not have been impressed just a youth, and because
with the anointing ceremony because David was still tending sheep while Goliath had been in training
as a warrior from his youth.
his big brothers were o at war. But as an obedient son, David packed his Wild animals such as a
bags and headed to the front line. lion or a bear were always
threats to a lamb from the
ock, and the shepherds
20
And David rose early in the morning and left the sheep with a keeper ghting ability was the
lambs only defense. Lions
and took the provisions and went, as Jesse had commanded him. And and bears (lit. the lion
he came to the encampment as the host was going out to the battle line, and the bear) probably
best gives the sense of
shouting the war cry. 21 And Israel and the Philistines drew up for battle, the translation. David
army against army. 22 And David left the things in charge of the keeper was probably describing
his various encounters
of the baggage and ran to the ranks and went and greeted his brothers. with wild animals rather
23
As he talked with them, behold, the champion, the Philistine of Gath, than identifying two
specic incidents. This
Goliath by name, came up out of the ranks of the Philistines and spoke the uncircumcised Philistine
same words as before. And David heard him. would suffer the same
24
fate as these animals for
All the men of Israel, when they saw the man, ed from him and his deance of the Lord.
were much afraid. 25 And the men of Israel said, Have you seen this The word rescued is the
same word that appeared
man who has come up? Surely he has come up to defy Israel. And the king in verse 35; David rescued
will enrich the man who kills him with great riches and will give him the sheep, and God
rescued him. Now, God
his daughter and make his fathers house free in Israel. 26 And David would rescue His ock
said to the men who stood by him, What shall be done for the man who Israel. Encouraged by
Davids faith, Saul found
kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who the courage to invoke Gods
is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the name in the blessing, May
the LORD be with you. 4
living God?
Bryan E. Beyer,
HCSB Study Bible
David asked some nearby Israelite soldiers two questions: First, what
was the reward for the man who took down the giant? Second, who
did the giant think he was, mouthing o about their God? The second
question was the more important of the two because it revealed Davids
real motivation. He cared about the glory of God.

Session 3 37
 Unfortunately, we see in this story a tragic ironysome of the most
Voices from discouraging opposition that Christians face comes from the people who
the Church should be on Gods side. Goliath was frightening enough, but there were
The account of David soldiers doing everything in their power to prevent anyone from stepping
and Goliath vividly out in bold faith, such as Eliab, Davids brother (v. 28). Cowardly people
pictures the source of
the Christians faithnot of God are often the biggest obstacle to the mission of God.
our own size, strength, or The real giant in this story was the unbelief that dominated the hearts
resources, but the power
of Almighty God. 5 of Gods people. Perhaps God was just as insulted by Israels disbelief as
Henry Blackaby He was by Goliaths blatant, blasphemous deance. The same opposition
is at work in our churches today. What should be a bastion for godly
ambition becomes a place of cowardly timidity and unbelief. Too many
times, we are like Eliab, scong at other believers grand vision to reach
their community and their world. How dierent would our cities be if,
instead of responding with Eliabs cynical spirit, we assumed with David
that God was poised to work powerfully?

What are ways we (unintentionally or not) dampen the

belief of others in the power of God?

Word got back to King Saul that someone might be up for the
challenge of taking on Goliath (v. 31). But as soon as David arrived, Saul
took up the same tone with him that his brothers had.

33
And Saul said to David, You are not able to go against this Philistine
to ght with him, for you are but a youth, and he has been a man of war
from his youth. 34 But David said to Saul, Your servant used to keep
sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a
lamb from the ock, 35 I went after him and struck him and delivered it
out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard
and struck him and killed him. 36 Your servant has struck down both lions
and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for
he has deed the armies of the living God. 37 And David said, The LORD
who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear
will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said to David,
Go, and the LORD be with you!

David was unfazed by the discouragement of people around him. He

was the anointed king who trusted in Gods power. Besides, he had done
his real training in the pasture, and compared to a lion or a bear, Goliath
was not terribly impressive.
Maybe there is a reason we are not given a catalog of Davids daily
events during his time as a shepherd: they would have been the same every
single day. Walk the sheep from here to there. Lead them to water. Retrieve
wandering lamb. Sit. Wait. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

38 Leader Guide
 But the pasture was also where David honed some of the most vital
skills in his life. It was there that he grew in courage, fending o lions Further
and bears from his helpless ock. It was there that he learned humility, Commentary
cleaning sheep excrement o of his robes and sandals day after day. No Among the Hebrews
wonder Psalm 78:72 says that David with upright heartshepherded as well as among other
ancient people, the belief
[the people] and guided them with his skillful hand. An upright heart appears evident that
and a shepherding attitude come from the pasture, not the palace. divine judgment could
be revealed by single
This is still what God does with us today. Parents who feel combat. Furthermore,
unappreciatedchanging diapers for unappreciative infants, for example the consensus was that
the victorious people in
experience their own pasture but can do so with joy if they realize that in battle possessed the
whatever they do, it is for the Lord (cf. Col. 3:23). Businesspeople often most powerful gods. The
text of 1 Samuel 17 clearly
work dead-end jobs, unnoticed even by their own supervisors, but if they indicates the religious
work with faithfulness where they are, God often does magnicent things. nature of the confrontation
between David and Goliath.
Students, many of whom are eager to get out into the world and make a Davids words recorded
dierence, pore over their books, learning material that they may never use. in 1 Samuel 17:45-47
emphasize that he
But God is at work in them, forging their character, patience, and integrity. confronted Goliath in the
We ought not despise the pasture or resent our sueringthese are Gods name of the Lord, whom
the Philistine had deed.
laboratories for molding our hearts to trust in the Lords deliverance. In similar fashion, Goliath
cursed David by his gods
What pasture are you in right now or have you (1 Sam. 17:43). David viewed
the giants taunt as an
experienced in the past? affront to the living God.
David acted on faith so
What does it look like for you to faithfully trust God through that all who witnessed the
event would know that
that experience? there was a God in Israel. 6
Janice Meier,
3. Gods king accomplishes a decisive victory for Biblical Illustrator
His people (1 Sam. 17:45-51).
45
Then David said to the Philistine, You come to me with a sword and
with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD
of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have deed. 46 This day
the LORD will deliver you into
my hand, and I will strike you
down and cut o your head.
And I will give the dead bodies
of the host of the Philistines this
day to the birds of the air and
to the wild beasts of the earth,
that all the earth may know
that there is a God in Israel,
47
and that all this assembly
may know that the LORD saves
not with sword and spear. For
the battle is the LORDs, and he
will give you into our hand.

Session 3 39

Further
Commentary
The main takeaway for
believers today involves
seeing parallels between
what David did and what
Jesus does for us today.
David, by his condence
in and relationship with
God, functions as a
representative champion
of his cowering people.
Christ, similarly, is the
representative champion
of his cowering people.
Both David and Christ win a
victory the results of which
are imputed to their people.
Christians today are not
meant to read the story
of David and Goliath and
mainly identify with David,
but with the people who
need saving. Reecting
on the rescue that our
true and nal champion,
Jesus himself, has won on
our behalf, our hearts are
moved to worship and to
greater trust in him. 7
V. Philips Long,
Gospel TransformationBible
Voices from
Church History
Our spiritual David,
Jesus Christ, in his divine
righteousness has taken
away our sin and slew
death with his eternal life
That is the joyous gospel
with which the Holy Spirit
comforts all repentant and
troubled hearts. 8
Dirk Philips (1504-1568)
40 Leader Guide
48
When the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David,
David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine. 49 And
David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung it and
struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and
he fell on his face to the ground.
50
So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a
stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. There was no sword in the
hand of David. 51 Then David ran and stood over the Philistine and took
his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him and cut o his head
with it. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they ed.
This is gripping stu, and the scene qualies as one of the rst DVDs
I plan to grab o the shelf when I get to heaven! But other than being a
fascinating battle story, what exactly is the main lesson to learn in Davids
triumph over Goliath?
Contemporary audiences love to use this story as an analogy about
the underdog: No matter the odds, you can do it! Just believe in yourself!
Sadly, this misses the point. God does not want us to read this story and
come away with a cocky assurance that given the right condence, we
can achieve whatever we set our mind to. Yes, we can glean insight from
Davids courage and how he overcame insurmountable odds, but thats
not the main point of the story. If you are to put yourself in someones
shoes in this story, it would be the people of Israel hoping David would
win the battle. You and I are like the children of Israel praying for our
representative ghter to bring the victory for our side.
The entire scene of Davids conict with Goliath is cast in the light
of representative warfare. When David took on Goliath, it was not
merely one man against another; this was Israel and Philistia squaring
o. Whats more, the battle between Israel and Philistia represented the
struggle between their gods, as both David and Goliath mentioned in
their taunting monologues. Thus, when David won, the rout was onthe
Philistines (and their gods) were on the run while Israel (and the one true
God) pursued.
David went to the battle line with condence, not because he found
himself particularly worthy but because he saw the battle for what it
wasa struggle between the God of Israel and the gods of the world. And
when he won, the entire nation of Israel shared in his representative
victory, even though they had done nothing to earn it themselves.
Why is it important that David waged his battle against
Goliath in the name of the Lord rather than in his
own power?
 We stand in a situation similar to Israels, in need of a representative to
save us from evil. Humanitys greatest and most fundamental problem 99 Essential
the problem behind all of our problemsis our alienation from God due Christian Doctrines
to our sin. And just like Israel, there is nothing that any of us can do about 52. Christ as King
that. In fact, there is nothing that any of us, of our own accord, even desire God has always been King
over His kingdom from
to do about this. eternity past, whether in
We are like the hoards of Israelites hiding in our tents, ignoring the heaven or on earth. Yet
some of His creatures in
threat of Satan, sin, and death. What we need, like Israel, is a both realms have rebelled
representative to take on evil on our behalf. This story prepares the way for against Him, leaving
destruction in their wake.
God to raise up another King who would accomplish another decisive To restore His broken
victoryKing Jesus. No one would have expected or picked Him to win world, God promised a
King who would deliver
the victory, but through His death and resurrection, He is mighty to save, His people and restore all
and one day He will come and nally slay the serpent and rescue people of creation. The promise
of a coming King finds its
from sin and death. fulfillment in Jesus Christ
and looks forward to its
perfection when Jesus
What are some similarities What are some differences returns for His bride,
between the story of David and between the story of David and the church.
Goliath and the work of Christ? Goliath and the work of Christ?

Voices from
Church History
Having trust in Christ,
consigning everything
to the God of powers,
regarding God alone as all
that is highestThis is the
faith that has prevailed
over all weapons. 9
Paulinus of Nola (354-431)

Conclusion
Through the life of David, we see Gods chosen king who honors God
and ghts for his people. When we step back and look at the big picture
of the Bible, we see how God later sent the ultimate King. We would
have overlooked Him with our own eyes, but God sent Him for our
redemption, the King who achieved a decisive victory for us. This is the
King who now sends us out on mission for His kingdom with a message
of hope for all who are still trapped in sin and in need of salvation.

CHRIST CONNECTION: In David we see a picture of courageous

faith in Gods power. We also catch a glimpse of the bigger story
of the Bible and the coming King whom no one would have
expected or picked to win the victory, but through His death and
resurrection, He is mighty to save.

Session 3 41
 Additional Resources

The King Who

Fights for His People
References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry
1. D. A. Carson, For the Love of Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
God, vol. 1 (Wheaton: Crossway,
2006), 25. Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
2. Robert D. Bergen, 1,2Samuel, blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
vol. 7 in The New American
Commentary (Nashville: B&H,
2002) [eBook on WORDsearch].
3. Trevin Wax, Holy Subversion
Study Material
(Wheaton: Crossway, 2010), 127.
4. Bryan E. Beyer, in HCSB Study - The God Who ReignsChapter 5 from The God Who Is There
Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010,),
472, n. 17:26; n. 17:33; n. 17:34; by D. A. Carson
n. 17:36; n. 17:37.
5. Henry Blackaby, Experiencing - David and GoliathChrist-Centered PreachingA conversation with
God Day-by-Day (Nashville: B&H,
1998), 290. Ed Stetzer, Jon Akin, Eric Hankins, and Trevin Wax; nd a link to this
6. Janice Meier, Goliath: One-on- article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
One, Biblical Illustrator (Summer
1992): 25-26. - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including The Philistines at
7. V. Philips Long, Gospel
Transformation Bible (Wheaton: War, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at
Crossway, 2013), 366, n. 17:1-51.
8. Dirk Philips, Concerning Spiritual
LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
Restitution, in Early Anabaptist
Spirituality: Selected Writings, trans.
and ed. Daniel Liechty (New York:
Paulist, 1994), 236. Sermon Podcast
9. Paulinus of Nola, Poems, 26:150,
quoted in Joshua, Judges, Ruth, Danny Akin: Heroes: David
12Samuel, ed. John R. Franke,
vol. IV in Ancient Christian
Commentary on Scripture: Old
Testament (Downers Grove: IVP, Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
2005), 273.

Tip of the Week

Find a Group Project
For most of us, projects tend to nd us. But if you are looking for the
right project for your group, begin with the group members. Ask them to
list things they would like to do in your community and to describe the
needs they would like to meet. Ask what role they would see themselves
playing in meeting those needs. Also scan the community for potential
projects. Every community has dierent needs and opportunities. Here are
some places to start: hospitals, local schools, local colleges and universities,
public servants, community organizations/events, counseling centers, and
support groups.

42 Leader Guide
 SESSION 4

The King Who Befriends

Summary and Goal

One of the greatest examples of friendship in the Bible is in the relationship between David and
Jonathan. Jonathan shows us what it means to be a true friend by being utterly committed to Davids
well-being, by risking his own welfare for the sake of David, and by strengthening him in his faith.
The example of Jonathan points forward to the truest and best friend of allJesus Christ Himself,
who redenes friendship and transforms us into the kind of people who can be true friends to our
brothers and sisters in Christ.

Main Passages
1 Samuel 18:1-3
1 Samuel 19:1-7
1 Samuel 23:15-18

Session Outline
1. True friendship is grounded in covenant commitment (1 Sam. 18:1-3).
2. True friendship risks ones welfare for another (1 Sam. 19:1-7).
3. True friendship strengthens us in our faith (1 Sam. 23:15-18).

Theological Theme
Gods people need godly friendships.

Christ Connection
The story of David and Jonathan gives us an example of true friendship and oers us a picture of
Gods covenantal love for people. Because of Jesus commitment to us, His sacricial love, and His
strengthening grace, we are called the friends of God.

Missional Application
God calls us to befriend others in the way He has befriended us: by committing to one another,
sacricing for one another, and strengthening one another.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 43

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.
 Session Plan

The King
Who Befriends
Session 4

Introduction
Introduction Option Use the example of Facebook friends to orient the group to this study and
Show the humorous the nature of true friendship (leader p. 46; personal study guide [PSG] p. 37).
video clip 9 Unwritten
Facebook Rules Everyone
Needs to Follow to When you were growing up, who would you say was your
complement the content closest friend? What made your friendship so close?
in the Introduction about
Facebook friends. Use the
video clip to illustrate the Mention Tim Kellers comments about the two features of friendship
vast difference between
social-media acquaintances
(leader p. 46). Then summarize the session (leader p. 46; PSG p. 38).
and true friends. Genuine
friendship cannot depend on 1. True friendship is grounded in covenant
following a supercial code.
www.youtube.com/
commitment (1 Sam. 18:1-3).
watch?v=nlCxYtiH9Cw Recap Davids life up to this point to set the context for 1 Samuel 18:1-3
(leader p. 47). Then ask a volunteer to read the passage. Note the covenantal
commitment between David and Jonathan (leader pp. 47-48; PSG pp. 38-39).

For Further What are some ways you can tell that someone is being a
Discussion friend to you only for what they can receive?
What are some specic
ways you can embody What are some ways you can tell that someone genuinely
Matthew 7:12 and 22:39 cares about you selessly?
in your relationships with
your friends?
State that Jonathan loved David as he loved himselfan example of what
Jesus would later command (leader p. 48; PSG p. 39).

What are the obstacles that get in the way of friendships

built on this kind of seless commitment?

2. True friendship risks ones welfare for another

(1 Sam. 19:1-7).
Use Pack Item 4: Davids Enemies to note that King Saul became Davids
enemy. Describe the extent of Jonathans sacrices (leader p. 49), and then
read 1 Samuel 19:1-7. Explain that Jonathan stood to inherit the throne from
his father, Saul, but was still willing to commit himself to David (leader p. 49;
PSG p. 40).

44 Leader Guide
 When has someone risked something for your sake?
Point 3 Option
What did their actions communicate about their Read the Essential
commitment to you? Christian Doctrine
Edication (leader p. 52;
PSG p. 42), and then ask
Point out that the nature of Jonathans risk is found in his pleading to King your group to reect on
Saul on Davids behalf. Show how Jonathans example challenges us to how maturity develops
through relationships.
reshape how we look at friendship (leader p. 50; PSG p. 41). Proceed with the
following questions:
When have you showed intentional and consistent What are some actions
kindness to someone, like Jonathan to David? we should develop in
our relationships with
one another in order to
3. True friendship strengthens us in our faith fulll the expectation
of edication within
(1 Sam. 23:15-18). our church?
Tell how the author every now and then lets us know about Jonathan How should friendships
(leader p. 50). Read 1 Samuel 23:15-18. Emphasize how Jonathan was active within the church differ
from friendships between
rather than passive as a friend in meeting with David to encourage him non-believers?
(leader p. 51; PSG pp. 41-42).

What are some examples of passive friendship?

For Further
How can we be more intentional in strengthening a friends Discussion
faith in God?
The gospel is the greatest
act of friendship in history.
Explain how friendship requires more than intentionality but also direction. How does the gospel
provide the motivation for
Those people who point you to God are the friends that we need. Observe true friendship?
that Jonathan didnt present himself as the answer to Davids problems; he
presented Gods promises as the answer (leader pp. 51-52; PSG p. 42).

What happens when a friend considers himself or herself

as the answer to your problems?

Why is it important that our friendships point us to God as Christ Connection: The story
of David and Jonathan
the answer? gives us an example of true
friendship and offers us a
picture of Gods covenantal
Comment on how the story of Jonathan points forward to Jesus, who is the love for people. Because of
friend weve always searched for, the only One who risked it all (leader p. 52; Jesus commitment to us,
His sacricial love, and His
PSG p. 43). strengthening grace, we are
called the friends of God.
Conclusion ........................................................
Share that Jesus friendship to us gives us the freedom to become the friends Missional Application: God
weve always wanted to be (leader p. 53; PSG p. 44). Apply the truths of this calls us to befriend others in
the way He has befriended
session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 45). us: by committing to one
another, sacricing for one
another, and strengthening
Pass out bookmarks from Pack Item 6: Love Must Give to help group members one another.
recall that love requires giving, just as Jesus gave His life for us as His friends.

Session 4 45
 Expanded Session Content

The King
Who Befriends
Session 4

Voices from the Culture

Introduction
Friendship is a strange thing nowadays. Just twenty years ago, it would
I would rather walk with
a friend in the dark, than have been seen as the height of exaggeration (not to mention arrogance)
alone in the light. 2 for a person to claim hundreds or thousands of friends. But today, this is
Helen Keller (1880-1968) true of just about anyone with a Facebook account.
We have more friends than ever, dont we? Well, not really. What
kind of friends are these? I may have 1,500 Facebook friends, but I dont
really know even half of them. They dont really know me either. (And Im
certainly not inviting all 1,500 of them to my birthday party!)
The problem in our day is not that we lack people around us. We
cross paths with people all the time. No, our problem is that we lack true
friends. We are overly connected but incredibly shallow. Our notion of
friendship has shifted to the point that it aects even the few friends we do
have, leading us to settle for shallow relationships everywhere.

When you were growing up, who would you say was your
closest friend? What made your friendship so close?

Pastor Tim Keller has said that two features of true friendship are
constancy and transparency. Or in other words, a friend is someone who
always lets you in and never lets you down. (And when your friends do
disappoint you temporarily, they wont give up until your relationship is
restored.) 1 Unfortunately, most of us live our days letting no one in, and
because we avoid the demands of constancy and transparency, were always
letting people down. There must be a better way.

Session Summary
In this session we take a look at one of the greatest examples of
friendship in the BibleDavid and Jonathan. Jonathan shows us what
it means to be a true friend by being utterly committed to Davids
well-being, by risking his own welfare for the sake of David, and by
strengthening him in his faith. The example of Jonathan points forward
to the truest and best friend of allJesus Christ Himself, who redenes
friendship and transforms us into the kind of people who can be true
friends to our brothers and sisters in Christ.

46 Leader Guide
1. True friendship is grounded in covenant
commitment (1 Sam. 18:1-3). Further
We meet Jonathan in the middle of Davids story. We saw in the Commentary
previous session how David was anointed by Samuel and how he stood up David was immediately
given status by his
to the greatest warrior in the landGoliath. David brought the giant relationship with the royal
down with a single ick of the wrist, and with that one little stone, David family. Jonathan, the
crown prince, recognized
became the prime example of underdog victories for centuries to come. in David a kindred spirit,
After Davids victory, he grew in popularity. He was celebrated as and struck up a deep
friendship with him, while
a national hero, so much so that Saul, still the reigning king, began to Saul decided that he
worry. Saul soon saw David as a threat to his throne (vv. 8-9). Saul might needed Davids presence
beside him, and so
have been paranoid, but he wasnt dumb. Perhaps he knew the old proverb gave him a home in the
Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. So Saul decided to palace. Jonathan made
a covenant with David,
keep David where he could keep an eye on him, in the kings palace itself. apparently on the spur of
While David was under palace arrest, he met Sauls oldest son, Jonathan. the moment, in the glow
of Davids victory; but it
was a lasting commitment
1
As soon as he had nished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was that both men were to
knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2 And honour, and which they
never regretted. Jonathans
Saul took him that day and would not let him return to his fathers house. action in stripping off his
3
Then Jonathan made a covenant with David, because he loved him as royal insignia, and his royal
armour and weapons,
his own soul. only to give them all to
David, was more than
spontaneous generosity,
It doesnt take much knowledge of royal lineage to gure out that this to meet the need of his
friendship wasnt an obvious one. As Sauls oldest son, Jonathan was the new-found friend. It was
a recognition of Davids
king-to-be. But even though Jonathan was next in line, David was the worth, for which Jonathan
one who had been anointed, the man whom God had said would be the was willing to give his
all, even his right to the
next king. throne, for he loved him
Shouldnt David and Jonathan be rivals then? Shouldnt Jonathan as himself (v. 3, NIV). In
our political world, where
see David as a threat? In most cases, yes. But in this story, David and power plays such an
Jonathan become fast friendswith a covenant commitment based in important role, what would
be thought of a prince who
Jonathans loving David as much as he loved himself. voluntarily renounced his
We dont have many covenants these days. It seems the closest thing throne in favour of a friend
whose character and
we have are contracts, but theres a world of dierence between the two. godly faith he admired?
Contracts are limited. They have stipulations, timetables, and opt-out It is an unusual theme,
unique, maybe. What did
provisos. Theyre based on the principle of mistrust and are designed to Jonathans contemporaries
protect people from harm. The mind-set of I is always foremost with a think, and in particular his
father? Evidently David
contract. And in certain contexts, thats just ne. Business contracts, for won hearts everywhere he
instance, help people live and work with integrity. went, and when Saul made
him his general, sending
But when we see our closest relationships in terms of a contractwith him instead of Jonathan
the mind-set of I rst and foremostits a disaster. We start assessing to ght his battles, the
appointment met with
people based on whether or not they meet our needs. If they dont, we toss universal approval. 3
them aside for someone or something else. We do it with acquaintances, Joyce G. Baldwin
we do it with friends, and we even do it with spouses.

Session 4 47

Voices from
the Church
To be loved but not
known is comforting but
supercial. To be known
and not loved is our
greatest fear. But to be
fully known and truly loved
is, well, a lot like being
loved by God. It is what we
need more than anything. It
liberates us from pretense,
humbles us out of our
self-righteousness, and
forties us for any difficulty
life can throw at us. 4
Timothy Keller
Voices from
Church History
Friendship is unnecessary,
like philosophy, like art, like
the universe itself (for God
did not need to create).
It has no survival value;
rather it is one of those
things which give value
to survival. 5
C. S. Lewis (1898-1963)
Voices from
Church History
A friend is to be loved
freely, for his own sake,
not for the sake of
something else. 6
Augustine (354-430)
48 Leader Guide
Covenants are dierent. Covenants start with the needs of the other
person. They start with loving someone as you love yourself. The relationship
is paramount in a covenant, which means that its founded on trust, not
distrust. Most importantly, however, covenants are codied ways that
people commit themselves to each other. Take marriage, for example.
According to Gods intention, marriage is not a deal that we broker in
order to get our needs met. Its a promise of a husband and wife putting
each other rst, no matter whatin sickness and in health, for richer or
poorer, for better and for worse.
The commitment Jonathan made was covenantal because it was a
vowed friendship without conditions. He pledged himself to David. The
fact that he would be inclined to help David at all is a sign that he was
putting the interests of his friend ahead of his own desire for the throne.
What are some ways you can tell that someone is being a
friend to you only for what they can receive?
What are some ways you can tell that someone genuinely
cares about you selessly?
Consider the commitment between a parent and a child. A mother
commits to love and care for her child, to put her childs needs above her
own, no matter what happens. During the rst few years especially, the
child is unable to reciprocate any love that would even come close to the
seless and sacricial love of the mother. Yet a mother continues the
outpouring of love for her child.
That kind of unrelenting, Im always going to be here for you love
we see modeled by a good parent is the kind of commitment we see here
between Jonathan and David. Like siblings who stick together no matter
what comes, Jonathan and David were committed to each others good.
Jonathan loved David as he loved himselfa fulllment of what Jesus
would later command: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you
(Matt. 7:12), and Love your neighbor as yourself (Matt. 22:39).
What are the obstacles that get in the way of friendships
built on this kind of seless commitment?
2. True friendship risks ones welfare for another
(1 Sam. 19:1-7). Further
Covenants are a beautiful form of commitment, but they always come Commentary
at a cost. Jonathans covenant with David, by human standards, cost him When Jonathan heard his
fathers words, an internal
almost everything. Thats what sacrice always isgiving something up collision occurred between
and committing to something greater. And here is where we see Jonathan the young mans love for
David and his desire to
risking his own welfare for the sake of his friend. please his fatherWhen
he sensed that a heroic
1
And Saul spoke to Jonathan his son and to all his servants, that they young life like his own was
at risk, Jonathan acted to
should kill David. But Jonathan, Sauls son, delighted much in David. spare Davids life. First, he
2
And Jonathan told David, Saul my father seeks to kill you. Therefore warned (v. 2) David by
revealing Sauls intentions
be on your guard in the morning. Stay in a secret place and hide yourself. and timetable for murder.
3
And I will go out and stand beside my father in the eld where you are, Next, he formulated a plan
of escape for David. Finally,
and I will speak to my father about you. And if I learn anything I will he proposed a plan to
tell you. 4 And Jonathan spoke well of David to Saul his father and said gather further information
from the king and pass it
to him, Let not the king sin against his servant David, because he has along to David. Jonathan
not sinned against you, and because his deeds have brought good to you. fullled his part in the
plan as he spoke well
5
For he took his life in his hand and he struck down the Philistine, and of David to Saul (v. 4)
the LORD worked a great salvation for all Israel. You saw it, and rejoiced. Jonathans impeccable
reasoning achievedfor
Why then will you sin against innocent blood by killing David without the time beingthe desired
cause? 6 And Saul listened to the voice of Jonathan. Saul swore, As the result: Saul listened to
Jonathan (v. 6). The king
LORD lives, he shall not be put to death. 7 And Jonathan called David, took a solemn oath by
and Jonathan reported to him all these things. And Jonathan brought the life of Yahweh (NIV,
as surely as the LORD
David to Saul, and he was in his presence as before. lives) to underscore
his decision that David
will not be put to death.
At this point, Jonathan had nothing to gain in his relationship to Having negotiated the
David. He had everything to lose. Remember: Jonathan was the king reconciliation, Jonathan
went at once to David to
in waiting. But he literally took o his robe, placed it at Davids feet, inform him of his success
and said, My inheritance, my place on the throne, what is rightfully and accompany David back
to the royal household. As a
mineI lay it all down at your feet and commit myself to you (18:3-4). result, David was with Saul
Jonathan sacriced for David. He lived out his covenant, even when as before (v. 7). For the
time being, at least, David
things got dicult. When adversity struck David, Jonathan was there. was spared by the efforts
When death seemed certain, Jonathan was there. When the odds were of Jonathan, the man who
had perhaps the most to
stacked against him, Jonathan was there. gain from Davids death. 7
Robert D. Bergen
When has someone risked something for your sake?

What did their actions communicate about their

commitment to you?

Session 4 49
 The nature of Jonathans risk is found in his pleading to his father,
Voices from King Saul, on Davids behalf. Jonathan knew that his father was in the
the Church wrong. To oppose his fathers wishes or to speak favorably of David,
Gods truth is most however, was to risk his fathers wrath upon himself.
effectively learned and Later in the story, when Jonathan stood up for David, Saul was lled
lived in relationships.
Friendships hold the with rage and actually tried to kill his own sonhis heir (20:32-33)!
promise of grace! 8 Every day that Jonathan kept his promise to David was a day things
R. Kent Hughes became more dicult in his relationship with his father. But Jonathan
knew who was on the Lords side. So he remained faithful to his
covenant commitment of friendship.
God knows we need friends who are willing to risk their own
Voices from reputations, their own comfort, or their own welfare for our sake. Its one
Church History thing to have such friends; its another thing to be that kind of friend.
One can give without Early on in my ministry, there was a guy named Bob who told me he
loving, but one cannot love
without giving. 9 would always be in my corner helping me do what God called me to do.
Amy Carmichael At rst, I thought this was odd. What was his angle? What did this guy
(1867-1951) really want from me? Eventually, I realized that Bob wasnt o base. I was!
I had adopted a misguided notion of friendship in which I evaluated
people based on what they could do for me. Because I viewed people in
this way, I naturally assumed that other people would try to befriend me
for the same reason. Bob changed the game for me. Like Jonathan, he
sought to give away what God had given to him in order to see others
fulll Gods calling on their lives. That kind of sacrice will reshape how
you view friendship.

When have you showed intentional and consistent

kindness to someone, like Jonathan to David?

3. True friendship strengthens us in our faith

(1 Sam. 23:15-18).
As the story of David continues, we see him on the run from King
Saul. David ees into the desert, going from cave to cave running for
his life. The friendship of David and Jonathan takes a backseat to Sauls
high-speed chase after David. But every now and then, the author lets us
know what Jonathan was up to. And as it turns out, Jonathan was doing
whatever he could to strengthen Davids hand and put him in the best
position to survive.

50 Leader Guide
 15
David saw that Saul had come out to seek his life. David was in the
wilderness of Ziph at Horesh. 16 And Jonathan, Sauls son, rose and went Further
to David at Horesh, and strengthened his hand in God. 17 And he said to Commentary
him, Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not nd you. You A true friend does
shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Saul my father also not minimize or make
light of the sorrow or
knows this. 18 And the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. difficulty another may be
David remained at Horesh, and Jonathan went home. experiencing but, rather,
helps the other nd
strength in God. Jonathans
In this passage we read that Jonathan made sure to meet with David, encouragement of David in
and he strengthened his hand (ESV), or encourage him in his faith the present circumstances,
strengthening his hand in
(HCSB). That is a friendship that has gone beyond the surface level. God (v. 16), helps prepare
Jonathan was intentionally seeking ways to strengthen David. him for a later dire situation,
where David will again nd
Here we see David on the run and afraid. He was far from home. strength in God (30:6).
But when Jonathan heard about it, he acted. Historians tell us that the The sweetness of a friend
comes from his earnest
distance Jonathan trekked was about 30 miles. Thats an incredibly long counsel (Prov. 27:9). In
walk to check on a buddy. But Jonathan knew that a true friend is one the present episode,
Jonathan encourages
who walks in when everyone else walks out. So he walkedand walked David by reminding him
and walked. of Gods purpose to make
David king (1 Sam. 23:17).
The world is lled with passive friends. You call them, and they dont How much grander is the
call you back. When someone trashes you in public, they dont step up Christian hope: We have
this as a sure and steadfast
to defend you. Sometimes, the passivity of a friend can hurt more than anchor of the soul, a hope
something said by someone whos your enemy. At least with an enemy that enters into the inner
place behind the curtain,
youre expecting trouble. But with a passive friend, you end up under the where Jesus has gone
bus time and time again. as a forerunner on our
behalf (Heb. 6:19-20; see
Jonathan, however, was not a passive friend. He took time, spent the broader context). The
energy, and risked his own welfareall to make sure his friend David calling of all Christians is
to encourage one another
was strong in his faith. and build one another up
(1 Thess. 5:11). Yet we do
this ultimately because
What are some examples of passive friendship? we ourselves have been
befriended by God himself
How can we be more intentional in strengthening a friends in the person of Jesus. In
Jesus we have a friend,
faith in God? the great friend, the friend
of sinners (Luke 7:34).
No longer do I call you
Intentionality, of course, isnt everything. In fact, intentionality is servantsbut I have called
pointless if it doesnt have a purpose. Your destination in life, after all, isnt you friends (John 15:15). 10
determined by your intentions as much as it is by your direction. And this V. Philips Long,
Gospel Transformation Bible
is true of friendship. Those people who point you to God, who strengthen
you to do His willthese are the ones that we need. David would be
called a man after Gods own heart, yet even he needed someone to
encourage him. Why would any of us think we need any less?

Session 4 51

Voices from
the Church
People arent looking for But Jonathan provided something else to go along with the fearhope.
a friendly church; theyre
looking for friends. 12
Ed Stetzer and Eric Geiger
99 Essential
Christian Doctrines
88. Edication
Edication refers to the
progressive growth and
maturity of the church,
both individually and
collectively. The Bible
talks about different ways
maturity, or edication,
may happen, such as
through the fellowship
Christians share with
one another (1 Cor. 12:26;
Gal. 6:2). In addition,
edication takes place
through the churchs
preaching and teaching
of Scripture (Eph. 4:11-12),
helping people understand
and internalize the whole
counsel of God. In the
end, edication is building
up the body of Christ,
equipping people to live on
mission for the kingdom
of God.
52 Leader Guide
Friends who strengthen our hands in God dont do so by minimizing
the problems in our lives. When Jonathan showed up, David was still on
the run. Saul still wanted him deader than dead. The fear was still real.
He pointed to a greater promise, Gods promise that David would be the
king. And just as David had hoped in God in days gone by, he could do so
again. Jonathan didnt present himself as the answer to Davids problems.
He presented Gods promises as the answer.
What happens when a friend considers himself or herself
as the answer to your problems?
Why is it important that our friendships point us to God as
the answer?
The story of Jonathan points forward to Jesus. Jonathan may be a
wonderful example of friendship, but he was only a shadow of our truest
Friend. Jesus would fulll everything that Jonathan hinted at.
Like Jonathan, He would serve us at great personal cost to Himself.
Like Jonathan, He would come to us in needbut instead of walking
30 miles, He crossed the gap between heaven and earth. Jonathan gave up
his right to the palace to help David get in; Jesus purchased our place in
the palace at the cost of His own blood. He made His cause ours, taking
our sins and our sorrows, swallowing death in our place so that we would
have life eternal. Here is the friend weve always searched for, the only One
who risked it all, who always strengthens our hand in God, who commits
Himself eternally to our good. How can we reect on that without bursting
into song: What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!
Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we nd a friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our evry weakness, Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Are we weak and heavy laden, Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge; Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer.
In His arms Hell take and shield thee; Thou wilt nd a solace there. 11
Joseph Scriven (1819-1886)
Conclusion
The beauty of true friendship with Christ frees us to be ourselves to Voices from
the glory of God. Many of us are afraid to open ourselves up to others. We Church History
are afraid they may walk away. But if we remember what Jesus said to Every experience God
usYou did not choose me, but I chose you (John 15:16)then we can gives us, every person
He puts in our lives is the
have the condence that Jesus didnt call us friends because we were the perfect preparation for
popular ones, the smart ones, or the righteous ones. He calls us friends the future that only He
can see. 13
because of His mercy. Period.
Corrie ten Boom
Once we recognize Jesus friendship for what it is, we no longer have (1892-1983)
to fear that God will nd out something new about us and reject us. He
already saw how broken we are and loved us in spite of it!
This assuranceand only this assurancegives us the ability to be
vulnerable. We arent afraid to open ourselves up to people, as if their
judgment is going to destroy us. Weve already been exposed to Someone
far more important, and He responded by declaring us washed, sanctied,
and justied (1 Cor. 6:11). So we can be honest about our weaknesses,
which is the path to really connecting with others. You can impress people
with your strengths, but you can only connect with people through your
weaknesses. And only the gospel gives us the power to be content in
our weakness.
True friendship is hard work. It means walking 30 miles for someone
in need, sticking our necks out and really risking what we value. And it
opens us up to betrayal and hurt. The more you open up to somebody, the
ercer the sting is when selshness rears its ugly head.
Without Christ, we will always get to a certain spot in our friendships
and then not know how to go deeper. Forgiveness will be a hurdle too
high for us to surpass. But through Jesus friendship to us, we learn grace.
As He accepted us, so we accept othersnot based on their merit but
based on Gods lavish grace. Jesus friendship to us gives us the freedom to
become the friends weve always wanted to be.

CHRIST CONNECTION: The story of David and Jonathan gives

us an example of true friendship and offers us a picture of Gods
covenantal love for people. Because of Jesus commitment to us,
His sacricial love, and His strengthening grace, we are called the
friends of God.

Session 4 53
 Additional Resources

The King Who Befriends

References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry

1. See tweet by Timothy Keller, Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
@timkellernyc [online], 27 June
2013 [cited 8 October 2015]. Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
Available from the Internet:
twitter.com.
blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
2. Helen Keller, quoted in Expository
Eureka, by Diana Tham (Singapore:
Marshall Cavendish, 2013) [eBook]. Study Material
3. Joyce G. Baldwin, 1and 2Samuel,
vol. 8 in Tyndale Old Testament - FriendshipChapter 4 from The Four Loves by C. S. Lewis
Commentaries (Downers Grove:
IVP, 1998), 138-39.
- The Gift of Friendship and the Godliness of Good Friends
4. Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller,
The Meaning of Marriage (New York: Article by Kevin DeYoung; nd a link to this article at
Dutton, 2011), 95.
5. C. S. Lewis, The Four Loves GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
(Orlando: Harcourt, 1988), 71.
6. Augustine, Sermon 385.4, - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including Jonathan: A Forgotten
quoted in Late Have I Loved Thee: Hero, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at
Selected Writings of Saint Augustine
on Love (New York: Vintage Books, LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
2006), 400.
7. Robert D. Bergen, 1,2Samuel,
vol. 7 in The New American
Commentary (Nashville: B&H, Sermon Podcast
2002) [eBook on WORDsearch].
8. R. Kent Hughes, Disciplines of a
Godly Man (Wheaton: Crossway,
John Piper: Strengthen Each Others Hands in God
2001), 66.
9. Amy Carmichael, quoted in
Christ-Centered Exposition: Exalting Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Jesus in Ephesians, by Tony Merida
(Nashville: B&H, 2014), 121.
10. V. Philips Long, Gospel
Transformation Bible (Wheaton:
Crossway, 2013), 374, n. 23:16-17. Tip of the Week
11. Joseph Scriven, What a Friend
We Have in Jesus, in Baptist
Hymnal (Nashville: LifeWay
New Community Members
Worship, 2008), 154.
12. Ed Stetzer and Eric Geiger, Do you know what it is like to move to a community where you do not
Transformational Groups (Nashville:
B&H, 2014), 88.
know anyone? It is a fact that new neighbors are looking for relationships
13. Corrie ten Boom, quoted in and assistance in acclimating to the community. Consider putting together
Preface, by Elizabeth Sherrill,
in The Hiding Place, by Corrie ten a welcome basket from your group with gifts, community information,
Boom (Peabody, MA: Hendrickson,
2006), x. church information, and an invitation to your next group fellowship. Ask
14. Steve R. Parr, Sunday School
That Really Works (Grand Rapids:
group members to identify one newcomer each month from their own
Kregel, 2010), 136. neighborhood. Have them deliver the gift, provide a warm welcome to the
community, and oer to accompany the newcomer to the next Bible study
or fellowship. 14

54 Leader Guide
 SESSION 5

A King of Promise

Summary and Goal

God rearmed and expanded the covenant promises He made to Abrahamthis time to King
David. God promised to give David rest from his enemies and to build an eternal house through
one of Davids descendants. In response to Gods unfailing promises, David expressed gratitude and
humility, and this is the appropriate response for all believers in light of Gods faithfulness.

Main Passage
2 Samuel 7:8-26

Session Outline
1. God promises to give His people eternal rest (2 Sam. 7:8-11a).
2. God promises to build an eternal house (2 Sam. 7:11b-17).
3. We respond to Gods promise with gratitude and humility (2 Sam. 7:18-26).

Theological Theme
The gracious promises of God are meant to humble us and stir up gratitude in our hearts.

Christ Connection
God promised David that future kings of Israel would come from his family and that his kingdom
would last forever. God kept this promise by sending Jesus as one of Davids descendants. All of
history is driving toward the day when Jesus, the Son of David, will be recognized as the King whose
kingdom is everlasting.

Missional Application
God calls us to oer ourselves fully to Him so that the mercy and grace weve experienced will go out
to others.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 55

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Introduction Option
Address the issue of why
Christians feel guilty for
not doing enough for God.
Enlist a group member
prior to the group meeting
to read Kevin DeYoungs
article Are Christians
Meant to Feel Guilty All
the Time? and to prepare
a brief summary of the
article. After sharing the
session writers example of
being overwhelmed by guilt
and asking the question
from the Introduction, have
the volunteer summarize
the article for the group.
Allow 2-3 minutes for the
summary; then continue
with the session.
blogs.thegospelcoalition.org/
kevindeyoung/2010/05/11/
are-christians-meant-to-
feel-guilty-all-the-time/
For Further
Discussion
How does our resting
in Christ testify to
Gods faithfulness?
56 Leader Guide
Session Plan
A King
of Promise
Session 5
Introduction
Begin with the word enough and why it is troubling for us (leader p. 58;
PSG p. 46). Share the writers example of being overwhelmed by guilt over
what he was not doing for the kingdom of God (leader p. 58).
When have you felt tired in your walk of faith? What
situations led you to feeling burned out or exhausted?
Connect the enough discussion with David by saying that he desired to
do more by building God a house. Gods plan was not for David to do
something but to receive something, and this gives us a glimpse into the
heart of God for the world. Briey recap the previous sessions on Davids life
(leader p. 59), and then summarize this session on Gods covenant promises
to David (leader pp. 58-59; PSG p. 46).
1. God promises to give His people eternal rest
(2 Sam. 7:8-11a).
Introduce 2 Samuel 7:8-11a, and then ask a volunteer to read the passage.
Call attention to the common pattern in Scripture of God reminding His
people of His faithfulness before making promises (leader pp. 59-60;
PSG p. 47).
Why do you think we are less likely to acknowledge God
during seasons of wealth and success than in seasons of
crisis and suffering?
Comment on how God rejected and reversed the common temple-building
pattern and agreement found among Israels neighbors (leader p. 60). Show
how the concept of grace is present in Gods promises to bring restthe
house that God would build would not bear the inscription Built by David
for God but Built by God for David (leader pp. 60-61; PSG p. 48).
How does the gospel of Jesus Christ grant rest to those
who believe it?
How does our inability to rest in Christ hinder our witness?
2. God promises to build an eternal house
(2 Sam. 7:11b-17). Point 2 Option
Read 2 Samuel 7:11b-17. Explain that Gods promise to build an eternal Read the Essential
Christian Doctrine God
house ultimately refers to the Messiah. Distinguish between the prophecys Is Faithful (leader p. 62;
rst fulllment in Davids biological son Solomon and its ultimate fulllment PSG p. 50). Then divide
your group into three small
in Jesus. Be sure to point out how Jesus, unlike Solomon, would not need to groups. Assign each group
be disciplined for His own iniquity but for ours. State how in Jesus, God one Scripture passage from
the doctrine reading to read
would be the fulllment to His own promise (leader pp. 61-62; PSG pp. 49-50). in its context and discuss
Note this connection on Pack Item 3: Seeing Jesus in the Kingdom. how Gods faithfulness
impacts our lives.
Why do you think it is important that God promised to reign 1 Corinthians 1:4-9
through a human being? 2 Timothy 2:8-13
1 Peter 4:12-19
In what ways does the church fulll the role of being After a few moments,
Gods temple? ask the groups to share
some of their reections
and responses.
3. We respond to Gods promise with gratitude
and humility (2 Sam. 7:18-26).
Read 2 Samuel 7:18-26. Emphasize that salvation starts with knowing what
God has already done, not with what we have done (leader p. 63; PSG p. 51).

Have you ever been part of a movement where it was

evident to everyone there that God was working? What
characterized that time in your life?

What was distinct about that particular movement?

Use the trophy analogy to highlight how Christians are not role models
but works of art that demonstrate Gods saving power. The re to do in the
Christian life comes only from being soaked in the fuel of what He has done
(leader p. 64). Explain that what God told David is just as true for usour Christ Connection: God
kingdoms will fail. Jesus is the only thing that will last forever, so dont promised David that future
kings of Israel would come
waste your life building houses for yourself, or even building houses for God from his family and that his
(leader p. 64; PSG p. 52). kingdom would last forever.
God kept this promise by
sending Jesus as one of
In what ways do ingratitude and pride hinder us in Davids descendants. All of
our mission? history is driving toward the
day when Jesus, the Son of
David, will be recognized as
Why are gratitude and humility necessary qualities for us as the King whose kingdom
we share the gospel? is everlasting.
........................................................
Conclusion Missional Application: God
calls us to offer ourselves
Close by saying that we should remember that God does not need us and yet we fully to Him so that the
should still desire to give back to Him. Only by resting in God, however, can we mercy and grace weve
experienced will go out
avoid paralysis and nd freedom in serving God (leader p. 65; PSG p. 53). to others.
Apply the truths of this session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 54).

Session 5 57
 Expanded Session Content

A King
of Promise
Session 5

Introduction
Voices from One of the most troubling words in the English language is the word
the Church enough. Many of us constantly wonder whether weve been good enough,
The reality that all of worked hard enough, or loved our families enough. And when we start
history has been driving applying that tricky word to our relationship with God, things get even
toward, is the Son of
David on the throne of messier. How much is enough for God?
the universe. 1 Heres a confession you wont hear often from a pastor: I spent a lot of
Nancy Guthrie my Christian life feeling overwhelmed by guilt over what I was not doing
for the kingdom of God. Its not that I wasnt committed to Jesus, living
a sacricial life, or intensely busy for the kingdom. I was. There was just
always so much more to be done, and the needs of the world were crushing
me. I would start o really zealous but end up feeling paralyzed, toggling
between summers of feverish activity and winters of guilt and fatigue.
How could I keep any money for my own enjoyment when so many
in the world remained lost? If the price of a cup of coee could really feed
an Indian orphan for a week, was it ever right for me to have a cup of
coee? And why did I need a hot shower? Should I take only cold showers
and free up another $20 a month to house another refugee?
I used to think I was alone in this, but Ive grown to see that many
Christians feel the same way. It may not be as extreme as my experience,
but many believers are asking: Is it possible to know what God
specically wants from me? Is it possible to know Ive done enough? Can
I even knowfor surehow to get back on good terms with God?

When have you felt tired in your walk of faith? What

situations led you to feeling burned out or exhausted?

None of these questions are new for us. In fact, the desire to do more
and more for God was what prompted David to build God a house. But
David soon discovered God had a dierent idea for him instead. Gods
plan was not for David to do something but to receive something, and this
gives us a glimpse into the heart of God for the world.

58 Leader Guide
 Session Summary
In the previous sessions, weve seen how David was anointed king Further
but not yet on the throne. On the run from King Saul, David scored a Commentary
number of military victories and became one of the most popular men in My servant David (cf. v. 5)
the kingdom. After the death of Saul and his son Jonathan (Davids best is an honoured title, but at
the same time a reminder
friend), David nally became king. to David that, though he
In this session we see God rearming and expanding the covenant is king, and surrounded by
those who serve him, he
promises He made to Abrahamthis time to King David. God promised too has his servant role
to give David rest from his enemies and to build an eternal house through in relation to his God. It is
worth pondering that it
one of Davids descendants. In response to Gods unfailing promises, was by servant imagery
David expressed gratitude and humility, and this is the appropriate that the role of Jesus
was most profoundly
response for all believers in light of Gods faithfulness. foreshadowed in the Old
Testament: Behold my
servantin whom my
1. God promises to give His people eternal rest soul delights (Isa. 42:1)
(2 Sam. 7:8-11a). or with whom my soul is
well pleased (LXX; see
We catch up with David in 2 Samuel 7, where he was living large as Matt. 12:18; cf. Matt. 3:17).
the established king of Israel. From his palatial balcony, David looked If David had his eyes on
greatness, it would begin
down and saw the travel-worn tabernacle that served as Gods house. So with submission and
David made a commitment to build God a beautiful new house. In service to the Lord GodA
great name is a promise
response to Davids seemingly generous act, God ipped Davids script. that looks far ahead of
Instead of accepting Davids oer, He wrote one of His own: his own lifetime, when a
greater than David would
nevertheless crown with
8
Now, therefore, thus you shall say to my servant David, Thus says the new signicance all that
David had stood for as king,
LORD of hosts, I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, that you and cause the name David
should be prince over my people Israel. 9 And I have been with you wherever to be known worldwide. A
place for my people Israel
you went and have cut o all your enemies from before you. And I will make had already been put on
for you a great name, like the name of the great ones of the earth. 10 And the map, but there is a long
forward look in this promise
I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, so that they also, which would provide
may dwell in their own place and be disturbed no more. And violent men hope and solace in troubled
times (e.g. Jer. 32:37),
shall aict them no more, as formerly, 11a from the time that I appointed and a vision of security
judges over my people Israel. And I will give you rest from all your enemies. (rest; cf. v. 1) still future
(Ps. 89:22-24). Finally, in a
play on the word house,
Before God issued one of the most notable promises in the Old the tables are turned and
the Lord undertakes to
Testament to David, He referred back to recent history to remind David build for David a house in
how he got where he was. God, not David, was the provider. Look at the the sense of dynasty. 2
reminders He gave David: Joyce G. Baldwin
I took you from the pasture.
I have been with you.
Ihave cut o all your enemies from before you.
God reminded David that every step of the wayfrom the pasture
to the palaceHe was orchestrating Davids steps. In keeping with a
common pattern in Scripture, God reminded David of His faithfulness
before He made His promise.

Session 5 59

Voices from
the Church
[The psalmists] saw that
behind the throne of David
stood the throne of Yahweh
himselfGods purpose
in and through Israels
king was the same as his
purpose for Israel itself
(i.e., to be the vehicle of his
intentions for all nations). 3
Christopher J. H. Wright
60 Leader Guide
When we read this passage, we ought to ask ourselves: Are we not just
as quick as David to consider ourselves independent and self-sucient? Have
we forgotten how God has brought us to the place we are now? In times of
plenty, we are less likely to throw ourselves on the mercy of God than
when times are bad.
Why do you think we are less likely to acknowledge God
during seasons of wealth and success than in seasons of
crisis and suffering?
Davids desire to build God a house might seem odd to contemporary
readers, but it was a common practice in the ancient world. King Tut, for
instance, built a temple for the Egyptian god Amon-Ra. In exchange,
Amon-Ra allegedly proclaimed that King Tut would rule a kingdom that
spanned the globe and lasted for millions of years. (He fell just a few
thousand miles and a couple million years short.)
But note the order: (1) a king builds a temple for a god; (2) the
temple makes the god famous; (3) the god thanks the king by blessing his
kingdom. Thats the order of every religion in the world: work hard for me
and Ill work hard for you.
But God rejected that idea and reversed it. Essentially, God said to
David: My power establishes you, and you will always be My debtor.
Your life will be lived in grateful response to Me. The house that God
would build would not bear the inscription Built by David for God but
Built by God for David.
Graceit seems so simple. Its a gift, costly for the giver but free for
the recipient. Yet this is where so many people stumble. Were hard-wired
to ask: How much is enough? How often do I need to come to church?
How much money do I have to give? These questions will never get
you to the gospel. The gospel begins with Gods extravagant gift. Jesus
bloodand Jesus blood aloneis enough for your weary, guilty soul.
Christianity is not about you living a good life and then giving your
record to God; it is about Jesus living the perfect life and then giving His
record to you as a gift. He lived the life we were supposed to live and died
the death we should have died. His life is ours, but only if we receive it.
The story of God ipping the script and making a promise to King David
sets the stage for that glorious gospel.
With Davids perspective corrected, God began giving promises to
David. The rst three conclude with God declaring that peace will come
to Israel. Israel had been in wars and battles for many years, so this was
welcome news. And if we are honest, we all admit we want a place to
resta place of security, no longer worrying if something bad or tragic is
just around the corner.
 For the Christian, our rest is found in Jesus Christ. In John 15:9, Jesus
commanded us to make our home in Him. His name and His presence
are the rest weve been looking for. He who keeps His word is sure to
make good on the promise to grant rest to His followers (Matt. 11:28).
When we make our home in Him, He will display His glory through us
to the world.

How does the gospel of Jesus Christ grant rest to those

who believe it?

How does our inability to rest in Christ hinder our witness?

2. God promises to build an eternal house

(2 Sam. 7:11b-17). Further
God lifted Davids eyes to see something amazing. David had been Commentary
thinking of building God a house. But what God oered to do instead God underlines the
covenant promises he
would never have entered Davids mind as something to ask for. Look at made to Abraham in
what God promised: Genesis 12 (2 Sam. 7:9-11)
and then prophesies a
future king who is far
11b
Moreover, the LORD declares to you that the LORD will make you a house. greater than even David
12
When your days are fullled and you lie down with your fathers, I will (vv. 11-16). It becomes
clear that the future of the
raise up your ospring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will covenant depends on this
establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for my name, and I will future king. God will fulll
His promises through this
establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be to him a father, and he great son of David, who
shall be to me a son. When he commits iniquity, I will discipline him with the is also a son of GodOne
promise does not seem to
rod of men, with the stripes of the sons of men, 15 but my steadfast love will t with the others: When
not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away from before he does wrong, I will
punish him. That suggests
you. 16 And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before a normal human being,
me. Your throne shall be established forever. 17 In accordance with all these whereas the others suggest
someone much greater.
words, and in accordance with all this vision, Nathan spoke to David. How can we hold these
two sides together? The
answer is that, like many
Here we see God promising to build David an eternal house. This is a Old Testament prophecies,
promise that ultimately refers to the Messiah who would come and reign this prophecy is fullled at
more than one level. As we
forever. But one detail immediately strikes a lot of readers as odd: When shall soon see, it is partially
he commits iniquity If were talking about Jesus here (which we are), fullled by the great king
Solomon, who was to build
then what is this about iniquity? Jesus never sinned! the temple. But it is nally
It is helpful to remember that most biblical prophecies have a dual fullled only by the Lord
Jesus, great Davids greater
meaning. There is an immediate meaning, and then there is an ultimate son, the one whose reign
one. From the perspective of the prophets, of course, it was often dicult puts Solomons into the
shadows (see Luke 11:31).
to untie the two, but they remain distinct. Think of it like the experience From 2 Samuel 7 onwards
of seeing a mountain range in the distance. When you rst spot it, you in the Bible, we are waiting
for the arrival of Gods king,
might see two distinct peaks, seemingly right next to each other. Its only the son of David. 4
as you get closer that you see these peaks are miles apart. Vaughan Roberts

Session 5 61
 The rst fulllment of this prophecy was Davids biological son
99 Essential Solomon. Solomons name literally means rest, so in many ways he
Christian Doctrines would exemplify this promise. His reign would extend rest throughout
16. God Is Faithful Israel, and it would be on his watch that Israel constructed the temple (the
Gods faithfulness subject of a later session). Still, Solomon would do some patently foolish
means He keeps His
word and always fullls
thingssome Saul-like acts, as God put it heresuch as having
His promises (1 Cor. 1:9; 700 wives and worshiping idols (also covered in a later session). But even
2 Tim. 2:13; 1 Pet. 4:19).
Gods faithfulness is so, God would keep His promise and would not strip the kingdom
demonstrated in His from him completely.
fulllment of the promises
He made to Abraham, Yet this prophecy points through Solomon to another kingJesus. He
Isaac, and Jacob. The was the descendant of David whose kingdom would last. He was the
apostle Paul linked the
attribute of faithful to descendant who would establish the ultimate temple, not a building
Gods coming through on constructed with human hands but the temple of His own body. And after
His word: He who calls you
is faithful; he will surely His ascension to His heavenly throne, He would send His Spirit to make
do it (1 Thess. 5:24). We usHis peoplethe temple of God.
reect God by keeping the
promises we make to Him Unlike Solomon, Jesus would not need to be disciplined with the
and to others. stripes of men. Instead, He would be bruised for our iniquity, and by
His stripes, we would be healed (Isa. 53:5). The real Son of David would
build the real temple of God and establish Gods real presence with His
peopleforever. And He would not just be Davids son. He would be
Voices from Gods own Son, building the house of salvation for Gods people on earth
the Church all by Himself.
Gods chosen king, the Wrap your head around thatGod would build His own house, and
one to whom he promised
an enduring dynasty, had He would become the house He promised to build. In Jesus, God would be
faults and occasionally the fulllment to His own promise.
needed divine humbling.
God himself would have to
provide a king who would Why do you think it is important that God promised to reign
have no faults. 5 through a human being?
Michael Williams
In what ways does the church fulll the role of being
Gods temple?

62 Leader Guide
3. We respond to Gods promise with gratitude
and humility (2 Sam. 7:18-26). Further
This messianic promise was astoundingso astounding, in fact, that Commentary
we may be tempted to miss Davids response. But here we see the story Davids questions, Who
am Iwhat is my house,
come full circle. David began this discussion wanting to go and build for reveal his amazement
God, but he ended it by sitting, wondering, knowing, pondering, adoring, at Gods grace toward
him and his family. The
and then exalting the King who deserves all glory. king also pondered such
issues about humanity in
18
Then King David went in and sat before the LORD and said, Who general when he wrote
Psalm 8. David affirmed
am I, O Lord GOD, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus that what the Lord GOD
far? 19 And yet this was a small thing in your eyes, O Lord GOD. You have had done so far did not
begin to challenge His
spoken also of your servants house for a great while to come, and this is power, and it was only
instruction for mankind, O Lord GOD! 20 And what more can David the beginning of what He
would do through Davids
say to you? For you know your servant, O Lord GOD! 21 Because of your line. The kings words this
promise, and according to your own heart, you have brought about all is a revelation for mankind
can also be translated This
this greatness, to make your servant know it. 22 Therefore you are great, is instruction for mankind
O Lord GOD. For there is none like you, and there is no God besides you, or This is the instruction of
mankind, suggesting David
according to all that we have heard with our ears. 23 And who is like your thought Gods work with
people Israel, the one nation on earth whom God went to redeem to be his him could be an example
for all humanity. The Lord
people, making himself a name and doing for them great and awesome was willing to work through
things by driving out before your people, whom you redeemed for yourself a surrendered heart. David
was aware of Gods grace
from Egypt, a nation and its gods? 24 And you established for yourself your on his life, and he affirmed
people Israel to be your people forever. And you, O LORD, became their all these great things
the Lord had promised
God. 25 And now, O LORD God, conrm forever the word that you have would happen only in light
spoken concerning your servant and concerning his house, and do as you of Gods word and will
(lit. heart). David wanted
have spoken. 26 And your name will be magnied forever, saying, The most of all that Gods
LORD of hosts is God over Israel, and the house of your servant David will name would be exalted
forever through all He did
be established before you. for Davids house. Seeing
the LORD of Hosts receive
His proper glory had long
This is the key to salvation. Asking How much is enough for God? is been on Davids heart
the wrong starting point. Instead, salvation starts with knowing what God (1 Sam. 17:26,36,45-47).
Like Daniel (Dan. 9:2-5),
has already donewhich leaves us sitting in stunned awe in the presence of David did not presume
God. Yes, trusting Christ will lead you to do things for God. But everything on Gods promises
but prayed for God to
you do is only ever a grateful response to what Hes already done for you. graciously fulll them
We often think that the world is supposed to look at Christians and despite the unworthiness
of humanity. 6
say, What impressive works theyve done! They must really love God.
Bryan E. Beyer,
But as God shows us here, our witness to the world should leave them HCSB Study Bible
saying, Wow, what great things God has done for them!

Session 5 63

Voices from
the Church
In the hearts of the people
is a groping, inarticulate
conviction that if the right
ruler would only come
along, the world would be
healed of all its wounds.
Creation is headless and
desperately searching for
its head. 7
Richard Lovelace
Further
Commentary
God made [a covenant]
with David to fulll His
redemptive purposes for
humankind. The covenant
called for God to establish
Davids house, his kingdom,
and his throne forever
(2 Sam. 7:16). Although
God would fulll His
covenant promises, Davids
successors would have to
walk in Gods ways as David
had done (1 Kings 9:4-5).
Because Solomon followed
other gods, though, the
Lord divided the kingdom in
the days of Solomons son
Rehoboam and left Davids
descendants to reign only
over Judah (11:1-13; 12:19).
The covenant found further
fulllment in the coming of
Jesus Christthe Messiah
who was (and is) Davids
Son and at the same time
Davids Lord (Ps. 110:1;
Matt. 1:1-17; 22:41-45). He will
reign not only over Judah,
but over the house of Jacob
for ever; and of his kingdom
there shall be no end
(Luke 1:33). In the Messiahs
nished work, His kingdom
will include not only
Israels redeemed but the
redeemed of every kindred,
and tongue, and people,
and nation (Rev. 5:9). 8
John Traylor,
BiblicalIllustrator
64 Leader Guide
Have you ever been part of a movement where it was
evident to everyone there that God was working? What
characterized that time in your life?
What was distinct about that particular movement?
We Christians are not primarily role models. We are trophies, works of
art that demonstrate Gods saving power. No one admires a trophy for
having done something great; they recognize that the trophy represents
someone having done something great. Our lives are supposed to burn
brightly with evidence of Gods miraculous greatness. And ironically, the
more we steep ourselves in the nished work of Christ, the more we will
nd His Spirit rising up within us. The re to do in the Christian life
comes only from being soaked in the fuel of what He has done.
This story is all about Gods house, Gods kingdom, Gods unfolding
drama. But the wonder of it all is that we are invited to share in that story.
God calls us rst to behold Him in wonder, but He also commissions us
to go and tell.
What God told David is just as true for us. Our kingdoms will fail.
Our businesses will fail. Our loftiest ambitions will fail. Even our families
will not last forever. Jesus is the only thing that will last forever. And the
greatest privilege of our lives is asking God to show us where we can join
Jesus. He doesnt need us, but He will use us for eternal value. He can
make our miniscule lives into something beautiful, precious, and
everlasting. For far too many of us, our lives are just so small. We think of
God as a personal assistant, someone to get us out of a jam. What He
desires for us is so much bigger, so much richer, so much more profound
than any of us realize.
But that greatness begins in humility. It is one of the great paradoxes
of the Christian faith: If you desire greatness for yourself, God will oppose
you, but if you desire God to be great, your life will have eternal value and
miraculous power. Dont waste your life building houses for yourself, or
even building houses for God. Rest in His all-sucient work, and answer
Him when He calls.
In what ways do ingratitude and pride hinder us in
our mission?
Why are gratitude and humility necessary qualities for us as
we share the gospel?
Conclusion
How do we go about expressing our gratitude to God? What does Voices from
God-honoring, generous giving of our resources look like? Church History
First, we should remember that God does not need us. God is not now In this house Gods people
(nor has He ever been) looking for helpers to assist Him in saving the shall everlastingly dwell
with their God and in their
world. That doesnt mean He isnt calling us to give of ourselves generously God, and God with his
to that mission, just that Hes not looking for people to supply His needs. people and in his people,
God filling his people, his
Hes not short on money, talent, or time. He never commands us to go people filled with God,
save the world for Him; He calls us to follow Him as He saves the world so that God may be all in
allthe very same God
through us. being their prize in peace
Second, we should want to give back to God. We have to balance the truth who was their strength
in battle. 9
that God doesnt need us with this truth: God still wants us to give back.
Augustine (354-430)
After all, David wasnt rebuked for his attitude. God commended it: Whereas
it was in your heart to build a house for my name, you did well that it was in
your heart (2 Chron. 6:7-8). David wasnt trying to buy God o; he wanted
to do something great for God because of Gods great love toward him. And if
we think God doesnt need us means we can just spend all of our time and
money on ourselves, that only proves we havent met the real God.
David wanted to give of himself back to the God who had given so
much to him, and his heart overowed with that sentiment. Thats precisely
how we should be in response to the gospel. How can we see the riches that
God has poured out on us and not want to share that with others? A heart
touched by the gospel will become like the gospeloverowing with grace.
Third, we should oer ourselves to God and do what He tells us to do.
When we think that the weight of the world lies on our abilities and our
decisions, it leads to paralysis. But when we instead oer ourselves to God,
we can do what He calls us to and rest in that. When we allow the Spirit
to guide us, we can nally avoid the pressing guilt of not doing everything.
We can throw ourselves into that corner of Gods mission that He leads us
to instead of being torn apart by all of the causes in the world.
The great saints of old didnt try to buy God o, nor did they try to save
the world on their own. They realized that they served a miraculous God
who lacked for nothing. That vision gave them the courage to dream great
things for God and then to attempt great things for Him. May God help us
trust in our King of promise as we seek to praise the glories of His name!

CHRIST CONNECTION: God promised David that future kings

of Israel would come from his family and that his kingdom would
last forever. God kept this promise by sending Jesus as one of
Davids descendants. All of history is driving toward the day
when Jesus, the Son of David, will be recognized as the King
whose kingdom is everlasting.

Session 5 65
 Additional Resources

A King of Promise
References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry
1. Nancy Guthrie, The Son of David Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
(Wheaton: Crossway, 2013), 161.
2. Joyce G. Baldwin, 1and 2Samuel,
Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
vol. 8 in Tyndale Old Testament blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
Commentaries (Downers Grove:
IVP, 1998), 229-30.
3. Christopher J. H. Wright, Knowing
Jesus Through the Old Testament
Study Material
(Downers Grove: IVP, 2014), 97.
4. Vaughan Roberts, Gods Big - Gods KingPages 78-82 from Gods Big Picture by Vaughan Roberts
Picture (Downers Grove: IVP,
2002), 81-82. - The Bible and Salvation HistoryArticle by Greg Strand; nd a link
5. Michael Williams, How to
Read the Bible Through the Jesus to this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Lens (Grand Rapids: Zondervan,
2012), 46. - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including David: The King and His
6. Bryan E. Beyer, in HCSB Study
Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010), Kingdom, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at
508-509, n. 7:18; n. 7:19; n. 7:20-21; LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
n. 7:26; n. 7:27.
7. Richard F. Lovelace, Renewal as a
Way of Life (Eugene, OR: Wipf and
Stock Publishers, 1985), 41. Sermon Podcast
8. John Traylor, David: The
King and His Kingdom, Biblical
Illustrator (Summer 2013): 41-42. David Platt: The Promise of a Kingdom
9. Augustine, City of God, 17.12,
quoted in 12Corinthians, ed.
Gerald Bray, vol. VII in Ancient Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Christian Commentary on Scripture:
New Testament (Chicago: Fitzroy
Dearborn, 1999), 162.

Tip of the Week

Adapt the Session Plan
The Gospel Project is designed to give you, the leader, much more content
than you could possibly cover in a typical group meeting. Dont feel
pressured to include all the quotes, commentary, or discussion questions in
your group meeting. Instead, based on the particular needs of your group,
modify the session plan. Seek prayerfully the leading of the Holy Spirit as
you decide which points to emphasize and which questions to ask. Also
keep in mind that much of the leader content is present in the personal
study guide. You can always encourage your group to read at home any
sections you are unable to cover as thoroughly as you would like.

66 Leader Guide
 SESSION 6

The King Who

Needs a Savior
Summary and Goal

King David fell into sin and experienced all of its ugly consequences. In David we see sins capacity
to enslave us and to motivate us to cover it up. But we also see the possibility of renewal through
confession. As believers, we must see all of our sin as an oense toward God and rely on the forgiveness
available to us through the sacrice of Gods Son in order to be restored.

Main Passages
2 Samuel 11:1-17,26-27
Psalm 51:1-13

Session Outline
1. The Kings Captivity to Sin (2 Sam. 11:1-5)
2. The Kings Cover-Up of Sin (2 Sam. 11:6-17,26-27)
3. The Kings Confession of Sin (Ps. 51:1-13)

Theological Theme
All sin is ultimately directed toward God.

Christ Connection
Even David, the greatest of Israels kings and a man after Gods own heart, was a sinner in need of
redemption. In the story of David, we recognize that all of us need forgiveness through the sacrice of
the perfect King who would take upon Himself the punishment our sins deserve.

Missional Application
God calls us to be transparent about our sin and to live in repentance so that others will know there is
hope for forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 67

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Introduction Option
If appropriate for your
group, show the video
clip Pastor Testimony same placedespair (leader p. 70; PSG p. 55).
to complement the
Introductions statements
about the empty promises
of sin and the particularly
destructive nature of
sexual sin. Encourage
your group as the study
progresses to reect on Mention that what is true of sin generally is especially true of sexual sin
the similarities between
the pastors experience of
temptation and Davids. how restoration is possible through Gods Son (leader p. 70; PSG p. 56).
www.wingclips.com/
movie-clips/sexmoney/
pastor-testimony
For Further
Discussion
Do you nd that you face
temptation more during
busy or slow seasons?
What sort of habits
or rhythms in life
can we cultivate in
order to minimize and
avoid temptation?
68 Leader Guide
Session Plan
The King Who
Needs a Savior
Session 6
Introduction
Use the Sin aint fun! anecdote from the writer to begin the session.
Remind the group that sin can be pleasing initially but always leads to the
Consider the sin of losing your temper and lashing out
at someone with words. What is sins promise to you in
this situation? What is the appeal in that moment?
(leader p. 70). Summarize this session about Davids fall into sin and
Referencing Pack Item 4: Davids Enemies, highlight here at the outset of this
session that David became his own enemy by giving in to his lust.
1. The Kings Captivity to Sin (2 Sam. 11:1-5)
Ask a volunteer to read 2 Samuel 11:1-5. Note that King David fell into sin
after receiving blessing from God (leader p. 71; PSG p. 56).
What are the blessings God has provided you that are most
likely to make you forget your dependence on God, if you
let them?
Address Davids disengagement from his work and how boredom can make
us vulnerable to temptation. Then point out Davids being in a place where he
could be tempted (leader pp. 71-72; PSG p. 57).
What are the most vulnerable times and places where
people are most likely to face temptation?
Describe further Davids descent into sin, calling attention to why the biblical
author provided these details about Bathsheba (leader p. 72; PSG p. 57).
2. The Kings Cover-Up of Sin (2 Sam. 11:6-17,26-27)
Read 2 Samuel 11:6-17,26-27, highlighting that David is at his most
ingenious and devious in this passage (leader pp. 72-74; PSG pp. 58-59).
 When have you had to cover up your own wrongdoing?
How did events spiral out of control? Point 2 Option
Prior to the group meeting,
Provide an overview of the ways that Davids life began to unravel at this enlist a volunteer to study
2 Samuel 1218 and to
point (see Point 2 Option sidebar). Stress that sin can always be forgiven, but summarize for the group the
we cant always undo the damage it has caused (leader p. 74; PSG p. 59). story of Absaloms rebellion.
Reference Pack Item 4:
Davids Enemies to show
What are some consequences you have experienced how Davids own son
because of your own sin? became an enemy as a result
of his sin with Bathsheba.
What are some consequences others have experienced
because of your sin?

Point 3 Option
3. The Kings Confession of Sin (Ps. 51:1-13)
Read aloud the Voices
Explain why the question is not Do you sin? The question is What do you from the Church quote by
do after you sin? (leader p. 74). Say that God was gracious to expose what Trevin Wax (leader p. 77;
PSG p. 62). Then ask
David covered up. Then read Psalm 51:1-13 (leader pp. 74-75; PSG p. 60). groups of 2-3 to discuss
the following questions
What stands out to you as the necessary components of (consider writing them
on a board or sheet of
confession based on Psalm 51? paper for groups to have;
also available on the DVD
Recall Pack Item 5: Our Spiritual David, and ask group members to point in TheGospel Project for
Adults: Leader Pack):
out phrases from Psalm 51 that show David recognized his need for a divine
Why is distaste for and
righteousness to take away his sin. resistance against sin
in ones life an essential
mark of a Christian?
Show rst how gospel-centered repentance makes its sole hope the mercy of God,
How could this quote
and second, how gospel-centered repentance owns the truth that the sin we be used to encourage
commit is deeply inherent to who we are (leader pp. 75-76; PSG pp. 60-61). someone who is struggling
with a particular sin?
What are some ways we water down repentance by
bargaining with God or by explaining away our mistakes?
Christ Connection: Even
How does true repentance differ from a watered- David, the greatest of Israels
kings and a man after Gods
down version?
own heart, was a sinner
in need of redemption.
Note, third and nally, that gospel-centered repentance is directed toward In the story of David, we
recognize that all of us
God, realizing how our sin oends Him in His holiness and majesty need forgiveness through
(leader pp. 76-77; PSG pp. 61-62). the sacrice of the perfect
King who would take upon
Himself the punishment our
What happens when we minimize the severity of our sins deserve.
rebellion against God? ........................................................
Missional Application: God
Conclusion calls us to be transparent
about our sin and to live in
In closing, accent the beauty of the gospel: sin requires us to pay more than repentance so that others
we can give, but God in Christ pays what we cannot give. No sin is so will know there is hope
for forgiveness through
heinous that God cannot cleanse it (leader p. 77; PSG p. 62). Apply the truths Jesus Christ.
of this session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 63).

Session 6 69
 Expanded Session Content

The King Who

Needs a Savior
Session 6

Introduction
Voices from Growing up, I remember a country preacher who used to come to our
Church History youth group and warn us about the dangers of sin. One of his favorite
In our members there is tactics was to point his nger at us and shout, Sin aint fun! I never
a slumbering inclination corrected him, but even at the time I thought, Well, if sin aint fun, you
towards desire which is
both sudden and erce. aint doing it right.
With irresistible power Lets be honest: sin can be pleasing. We dont rush toward sin
desire seizes mastery
over the esh. All at once, because its painful but because its so promising. Sin begins with a
a secret, smouldering thrill, with a rush. But even though sin starts o with the excitement of
re is kindled. The esh
burns and is in ames endless possibility, it always leads to the same place: brokenness, agony,
At this moment God is disappointment, and despair.
quite unreal to usSatan
does not here ll us with
hatred of God, but with Consider the sin of losing your temper and lashing out
forgetfulness of GodThe at someone with words. What is sins promise to you in
lust thus aroused envelops
the mind and will of man in this situation? What is the appeal in that moment?
deepest darkness. 1
Dietrich Bonhoeffer What is true of sin generally is especially true of sexual sin. Sexual
(1906-1945)
sin is so powerful, so destructiveand yet so easy to accessthat it can
bring the strongest believer to utter ruin. Thats what it did to David, a
man after Gods own heart.

Session Summary
In this session we see how King David fell into sin and experienced
all of its ugly consequences. In David we see sins capacity to enslave
us and to motivate us to cover it up. But we also see the possibility of
renewal through confession. As believers, we must see all of our sin as an
oense toward God and rely on the forgiveness available to us through the
sacrice of Gods Son in order to be restored.

1. The Kings Captivity to Sin (2 Sam. 11:1-5)

Sin doesnt exist in a vacuum. It takes place in specic times and in
specic ways. Lets take a look at Davids temptation and sin, which gives
us insight into how we fall into captivity to sinful desires.

70 Leader Guide
 1
In the spring of the year, the time when kings go out to battle, David
sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel. And they ravaged the Further
Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem. Commentary
2
It happened, late one afternoon, when David arose from his couch David noticed that the
and was walking on the roof of the kings house, that he saw from the roof woman was very beautiful,
and his desires were
a woman bathing; and the woman was very beautiful. 3 And David sent arousedBathsheba came
and inquired about the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, to him, perhaps because
she was naive or simply
the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite? 4 So David sent lacked the will to resist the
messengers and took her, and she came to him, and he lay with her. (Now powerful kings request,
or perhaps because she
she had been purifying herself from her uncleanness.) Then she returned desired to be unfaithful to
to her house. 5 And the woman conceived, and she sent and told David, her husband. The writers
omission of an explicit
I am pregnant. motive behind Bathshebas
action reinforces the
The rst thing we should note about how King David fell into conviction that this story
is not so much about
captivity to sin is that this temptation came after he had received the Bathshebas actions but
blessing of God. At this point in the biblical narrative, the kingdom of DavidsDavids sinful
encounter with Bathsheba
Israel is rmly established. David is at the height of his popularity. In the occurred after she had
preceding chapters, David emerged as the victor of many battles. puried herself from her
uncleanness (cf. Lev. 15:19),
Does it surprise you that Davids sin came after his receiving so much that is, during the part of
blessing? We tend to think that adversity is what precedes sinful behavior, her monthly cycle when
she was not menstruating
as if sin becomes merely an escape from reality. But blessing can be just and thus was more likely
as dangerous. to conceive, which she did.
When she had become
The danger in times of blessing is that we forget just how dependent we aware of the bodily
are on God. When life showers us with goodness, we assume that we have changes that accompanied
the pregnancy, Bathsheba
caused it. So God gets pushed to the periphery. This is why the author of sent someone to
Proverbs 30 prayed to God, Give me neither poverty nor riches, but rather David informing him of
her situation. 2
feed me with the food that is needful for me, lest I be full and deny you Robert D. Bergen
and say, Who is the L? (vv. 8-9). The more self-sucient we feel, the
closer we are to disaster. As the apostle Paul said, Let anyone who thinks
that he stands take heed lest he fall (1 Cor. 10:12).

What are the blessings God has provided you that are most
likely to make you forget your dependence on God, if you
let them?

A second element of Davids temptation is that he was disengaged from

his work. The king had just sent Joab and the whole army out to battle. But
David stayed back. David the warrior had become David the vacationer,
and his lack of engagement made him susceptible to cheap thrills.
One way to successfully resist the enticements of this world isnt by force
of will. Its to be busy with a higher purpose. For many people, their lives are
so empty, so pointless, so devoid of something more, that the excitement of
sexual sin promises a fulllment they desperately crave. Its not always that
sin is incredibly alluring; its often that were so unbelievably bored.

Session 6 71

Voices from
the Church
When you allow your
eyes to feast on the
forbidden, the result will be
great folly. 3
Johnny Hunt
Voices from
Church History
The sin of immorality is
not one we are instructed
to ght. It is one we have
been told to ee. Run
from that compromising
situation. Saturate that
place with your absence. 4
Adrian Rogers (1931-2005)
72 Leader Guide
We simply werent designed to live our lives on the sidelines. God
created us to engage in battle, to pursue His mission with zeal and
courage. Only a vision of what God wants to do in you will give you a
sense of purpose strong enough to free you from the boredom that leads to
sin. Only a vision of what God has done for you in the gospel will keep
you from giving your soul away to idols.
The third element of this temptation is that David was in the place
where he could be tempted. It is far easier to avoid temptation than it is to
resist sin. Dont get me wrong: resisting sin is important, immensely so.
We must cultivate a habit of coming face to face with temptation and still
resisting sin. But the world throws enough temptation our way; do we
really need to go seek out more of it?
What are the most vulnerable times and places where
people are most likely to face temptation?
Davids dark road continued. His descent into sin wasnt immediate,
and even here, we see how he was given a chance to escape. Isnt this
Eliams daughter? someone told him. Isnt that Uriahs wife? Why
these details? This is the author pointing out to useven if David didnt
quite catch itthat Bathsheba was someones wife, someones daughter.
The anonymous person who answered David was trying to say, ever so
subtly, David, I know what youre thinking. And someone is going to
get hurt.
Sin hurts people. It aects someones mother, someones daughter,
someones soneven if that someone is just you. Gods rules, we have to
remember, are never arbitrary. They are given to us for our good, to show
us the most life-giving way of interacting with others. God doesnt want
to keep us from sinning because Hes out to ruin our fun. He wants to
keep us from sinning because He knows how deeply it will wound us. Sin
disintegrates. Sin wounds. Every time. Without fail.
2. The Kings Cover-Up of Sin (2 Sam. 11:6-17,26-27)
6
So David sent word to Joab, Send me Uriah the Hittite. And Joab
sent Uriah to David. 7 When Uriah came to him, David asked how Joab
was doing and how the people were doing and how the war was going.
8
Then David said to Uriah, Go down to your house and wash your feet.
And Uriah went out of the kings house, and there followed him a present
from the king. 9 But Uriah slept at the door of the kings house with all the
servants of his lord, and did not go down to his house. 10 When they told
David, Uriah did not go down to his house, David said to Uriah, Have
you not come from a journey? Why did you not go down to your house?
11
Uriah said to David, The ark and Israel and Judah dwell in booths,
and my lord Joab and the servants of my lord are camping in the open Further
eld. Shall I then go to my house, to eat and to drink and to lie with my Commentary
wife? As you live, and as your soul lives, I will not do this thing. 12 Then The good news of this
David said to Uriah, Remain here today also, and tomorrow I will send tragic chapter of history of
Gods people did not nally
you back. So Uriah remained in Jerusalem that day and the next. 13 And rest even on David. Despite
David invited him, and he ate in his presence and drank, so that he made being a man after Gods
own heart, and despite
him drunk. And in the evening he went out to lie on his couch with the the fact that David knows
servants of his lord, but he did not go down to his house. how to repent sincerely in
14 the wake of grievous sin
In the morning David wrote a letter to Joab and sent it by the (Psalm 51), David cannot
hand of Uriah. 15 In the letter he wrote, Set Uriah in the forefront of the save Gods people. He too
is weak. He fails. A son of
hardest ghting, and then draw back from him, that he may be struck David needs to come who
down, and die. 16 And as Joab was besieging the city, he assigned Uriah to will not fail. In Jesus Christ,
this Davidic heir arrives. 5
the place where he knew there were valiant men. 17 And the men of the city
V. Philips Long,
came out and fought with Joab, and some of the servants of David among Gospel Transformation Bible
the people fell. Uriah the Hittite also died.

26
When the wife of Uriah heard that Uriah her husband was
dead, she lamented over her husband. 27 And when the mourning was
over, David sent and brought her to his house, and she became his wife
and bore him a son. But the thing that David had done displeased
the LORD.

As the story unfolds, we see David at his most ingeniousand at his

most deviousas he schemed and hatched plans in order to hide his sin.
Plan A is an obvious one, but a tricky one to accomplish: David
attempted to trick Uriah into thinking the baby was his.
At any other time of year, this might not have seemed too dicult.
But Uriah, youll recall, was miles away ghting Davids battles. So David
needed to create a moment. He invited Uriah home from battle, asked
for a brieng on the war, and then sent him home. David thought he had
it covered.
But he was wrong. Uriah was a noble guy, and he was thinking of all
his comrades sleeping in the eld. They didnt have the pleasure of sleeping
in their own bed and being with their wives. So Uriah camped out with
the palace guards for a night. Imagine how convicting that was for David.
David, however, wasnt a quitter. He plotted Plan B, which was an
upgrade on Plan A. It now included the step of getting Uriah drunk.
Uriah, despite his nobility, walked right into Davids plot. Still, he would
not go home, choosing instead to sleep again among Davids servants.
Strike two for David.

Session 6 73
 So David started Plan C. He wrote a note to Joab that told him to put
Proverbs 28:13
Uriah in the front of the battle and to abandon him. It was a death sentence for
Whoever conceals his
transgressions will not Uriah, and Uriah himself carried it to Joab. In the end, Davids plan succeeded.
prosper, but he who Uriah died in battle, and it looked like David was going to get away with it.
confesses and forsakes
them will obtain mercy. But then comes the chilling end to the chapter: The thing that David
had done displeased the L (2 Sam. 11:27). No one else may have seen
what truly happened. David may have convinced himself that it was all
behind him. But Gods eyes were watching. They always are.

When have you had to cover up your own wrongdoing?

How did events spiral out of control?

Davids life from this point forward began to unravel. His family
started to fall apart. His newborn son with Bathsheba died, and his grown
children rebelled against him. What does this show us but that sin has an
enormous capacity to destroy?
Sin can always be forgiven. As we will see in a moment, David came
to God and received healing for what he had done. But we cant always
undo the damage caused when we freely walk into sin. Sin is a plague
by its very nature, it destroys. The whispers of sin that promise joy are lies,
and the end of that road is disaster.

What are some consequences you have experienced

because of your own sin?

What are some consequences others have experienced

because of your sin?

3. The Kings Confession of Sin (Ps. 51:1-13)

Few of us have sinned as egregiously as David did, in open adultery
and murder. But we all sin. And every one of us is capable of Davids
heinous crimes.
When confronted with the results of our sinas David was when
Bathsheba got pregnantwe can hide it, rationalize it, or blame-shift. And
that may work for a season. But theres only one true remedy for sin, and that
is to repent. The question is not Do you sin? The question is What do you
do after you sin? The answer to that question is a matter of life and death.
Fortunately for David, God chose to expose what David had covered
up. He sent the prophet Nathan to remind David that although he thought
he had gotten away with everything, God wouldnt let it end there. And in a
moment of profound humility, David nally came clean. The result was one
of the most beautiful and exemplary songs in ScripturePsalm 51. In this
psalm, David shows us the keys to gospel-centered repentance and confession.

74 Leader Guide
1
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your steadfast love; Further
according to your abundant mercy Commentary
blot out my transgressions. [Verse 5] has prompted a
2
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, variety of interpretations.
Some have interpreted
and cleanse me from my sin! it to mean that marriage
3
For I know my transgressions, and childbearing are a
curse; this is untenable
and my sin is ever before me. in light of the rest of
4
Against you, you only, have I sinned Scripture (127:3; Heb. 13:4).
Another interpretation
and done what is evil in your sight, is that this refers to a
so that you may be justied in your words specic sin, perhaps
adultery, committed by
and blameless in your judgment. Davids mother, but there
5
Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, is no evidence of this in
the biblical texts. Others
and in sin did my mother conceive me. connect this verse with
6
Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, ceremonial uncleanness in
childbirth (Lev. 12:2,5; 15:18),
and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart. but this is not the same as
7
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; sin. Some say David is using
rhetorical overstatement
wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. to describe his sinfulness.
8
Let me hear joy and gladness; One of the most common
interpretations in Christian
let the bones that you have broken rejoice. history is that this verse
9
Hide your face from my sins, teaches the doctrine of
original sin. While not
and blot out all my iniquities. aiming to strictly identify
10
Create in me a clean heart, O God, the origin of human
sinfulness with events
and renew a right spirit within me. at biological conception,
11
Cast me not away from your presence, David recognizes that
sin pervades humankind
and take not your Holy Spirit from me. as a universal condition
12
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, from the very outset
of our existence. Sin
and uphold me with a willing spirit. is everywhere and in
13
Then I will teach transgressors your ways, everyone, and David
confessed that it had been
and sinners will return to you. with him since birth. Far
from forming the basis
What stands out to you as the necessary components of of an excuse (i.e., Why
should I be blamed for my
confession based on Psalm 51? sins when I was born this
way?), Davids confession
contrasts the blameless
First, look at how gospel-centered repentance makes its sole hope the mercy (Ps. 51:4) ways of God
of God. David began precisely where he should, by centering on Gods with the innately evil ways
of men. 6
grace. He prayed according to your steadfast love and according to your
Kevin R. Warstler
abundant mercy. This is actually a rather risky thing to say. What if God and Sherri L. Klouda,
decides not to be merciful? Shouldnt we make our case with God rst? At HCSB Study Bible
least, this is how many of us approach God.

Session 6 75

Voices from
the Church
The difference between
a Christian and a non-
Christian is not that a
Christian never sins; its
that when he does sin, he
confesses it and ghts
against sinning again. He
takes Gods side against
his sin instead of sins side
against God. 7
Jonathan Leeman
99 Essential
Christian Doctrines
37. Sin as Rebellion
Because the Bible portrays
people as responsible
beings, called to respond
in faith and obedience to
Gods revelation, the Bible
often portrays sin in terms
of deance and rebellion
toward God the King.
Isaiah 1:2 is one of many
passages that describes
sin in terms of rebellion
against God: Children
have I reared and brought
up, but they have rebelled
against me. Seen in this
light, sin is personal and
willful disobedience,
the raising of a clinched
st toward the One who
made us.
76 Leader Guide
But thats not repentance. Repentance begins where blame-shifting,
bargaining, and rationalizing end. Nothing in this prayer suggests that
David came to God looking to make a deal. He was not bargaining with
God, trying to commute his sentence. He was not reminding God of all
the great things he did in the past. (Remember Goliath?) He was not
trying to explain away his sin. He was not even promising to do better in
the future. No, David appealed to God on the only ground that wont
crumble, the ground of Gods grace.
Second, gospel-centered repentance owns the truth that the sin we commit is
deeply inherent to who we are. When were caught in our sin, our natural
inclination is to explain it away: Im not really as bad as all that, we want to
say. It was just a moment of weakness. But David went the complete
opposite direction: I know my transgressions, he said. These sins werent a
mistake I made; theyre at the core of who I am. In verse 5, he took this
about as far as it could go: Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin
did my mother conceive me. In other words, Hey, you think Im bad? You
dont know the half of it. This sin stu? Its in my blood. Each one of us is
born a rebel against authorityespecially Gods authority.
What are some ways we water down repentance by
bargaining with God or by explaining away our mistakes?
How does true repentance differ from a watered-
down version?
Third, gospel-centered repentance is directed rst toward God. We might
need to take o our Sunday School hats for a second to realize just how
bizarre verse 4 is: Against you, you only, have I sinned, David said.
Really? Against God alone? What about Bathsheba? Or Uriah, for crying
out loud? On the face of it, this doesnt make sense, but its actually the
heart of Davids entire prayer.
David realized that his sin began as a sin against God. What was it
about Bathsheba that David wanted? Was it the feeling of power? Her
beauty? A moment of physical pleasure? Ultimately, David wasnt swept
away because he wanted something specic. David was seduced by
Bathshebas beauty because he was no longer captivated by Gods.
All of our sin starts as a dissolution in our relationship with God. It
begins as we grow dissatised with what God has given us, as we doubt
His goodness toward us. So we start to feel Gods boundaries as restrictive,
not life-giving. What this means is that the way to deal with sin in our
lives isnt merely to suppress the sin; its to increase our delight in God so
that we love Him more than we love the sin. The only way to overcome
sinful urges is not by learning to love them less but by learning to love
God more.
 David also realized that God was the most signicant one he had
oended. What he did to Bathsheba was shameful; what he did to Uriah Voices from
was despicable; but what he did to God was the most heinous of all. God the Church
was the very One who had created David, who had raised him up from The victorious Christian
the position of a shepherd to that of a king, who had given him every good life is not the sinless life,
but the repentant life. 8
thing in his life. In light of Gods goodness toward him, as David reected
Trevin Wax
on his sin, all he could say was, God, have I really done this to You? After
all Youve done for me, this is my response?
Many of us dont realize how large and majestic is our God. But think,
the bloody cross was the price for our sin. Jesus didnt have to die because of
Further
what we did to each other but because of what we did to God. Have you Commentary
ever sensed how much He has done to create you, to save you? He took you
Hyssop was mentioned
and me, His enemies, and brought us close, calling us His friends. That in connection with two
should change how we think of sin against Godnot merely as treason signicant commands in
Scripture. In the exodus
against a mighty king but as a betrayal of a close friends trust. Sin should story, the Hebrews were
upset us not just because of its consequences but because of what our sin told to dip hyssop in a
lambs blood and spread
has done to God; otherwise, our repentance will only be a smokescreen. that blood on their
doorposts (Ex. 12:22). Also,
hyssop was prescribed
What happens when we minimize the severity of our as a tool to be used in the
rebellion against God? ceremonial cleansing of
one who had been healed
of leprosy (Lev. 14:1-7).
Conclusion To a Jewish reader, the
Throughout Psalm 51, David pointed out that our repentance needs to connection David was
making here would have
ow from the heart. But theres a problemour hearts are wicked. We been obvious. David
cant change them, and David knew it. So he cried out for God to cleanse was saying he needed
something to free him
him: Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be from sins slavery (like
whiter than snow (v. 7). the slavery in Egypt),
something to heal him
Heres what is so beautiful about the gospel. David was crying out to from sins disease (like the
God, asking God to purge him and wash him. But he also knew how deep disease of leprosy). But
literal hyssop wouldnt be
his sin was. To be truly purged, truly cleansed, he would need to pay far more enough. What David was
than he had to give. The penalty for his sinand ourswas death. But in crying out for was the hope
of the gospelan internal
the gospel, God in Christ takes the penalty of our sin upon Himself on the cleansing and restoration
cross. The cross is Gods promise to us that there is no sin so heinous, no heart from sin effected by
God Himself.
so wicked, that God cannot cleanse it. And the resurrection is Gods promise
that there is no situation so dead that He cannot renew and restore it.

CHRIST CONNECTION: Even David, the greatest of Israels

kings and a man after Gods own heart, was a sinner in need
of redemption. In the story of David, we recognize that all of us
need forgiveness through the sacrice of the perfect King who
would take upon Himself the punishment our sins deserve.

Session 6 77
 Additional Resources

The King Who

Needs a Savior
References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry
1. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Temptation, Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
in Creation and Fall & Temptation:
Two Biblical Studies, by Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
Dietrich Bonhoeffer (New York:
Touchstone, 1983), 132.
blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
2. Robert D. Bergen, 1,2Samuel,
vol. 7 in The New American
Commentary (Nashville: B&H, Study Material
2002) [eBook on WORDsearch].
3. Johnny Hunt, Josephs - The Seventh CommandmentChapter 7 from The Ten
Temptation, Sermon Search
[online; cited 4 November 2013]. Commandments by Mark Rooker
Available from the Internet:
www.sermonsearch.com. - 4 Reasons Why God Forbids AdulteryArticle by Rey De Armas;
4. Adrian Rogers, in Adrianism: The
Wit and Wisdom of Adrian Rogers, nd a link to this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
vol. 1 (Memphis: Love Worth
Finding, 2006), 114. - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including The Great Sin: Adultery
5. V. Philips Long, in Gospel
Transformation Bible (Wheaton: in the Ancient Near East, can be purchased, along with other articles
Crossway, 2011), 395, n. 11:1-27.
for this quarter, at LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles:
6. Kevin R. Warstler and Sherri L.
Klouda, in HCSB Study Bible The Gospel Project.
(Nashville: B&H, 2010), 931, n. 51:5.
7. Jonathan Leeman, Psalms, The
Gospel Project: Adult Leader Guide
(Winter 2012-13): 97. Sermon Podcast
8. Trevin Wax, The Gospel and
Repentance, LifeWay Pastors
[online], 12 May 2015 [cited
Eric Mason: Characteristics of a Deeply Repentant Man, Part 1
8 October 2015]. Available from the
Internet: www.lifeway.com
Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources

Tip of the Week

Great Commission Praying in Your Small Group
When it comes to prayer, every small group operates at one of three levels:
class, community, or commission. At the class level, prayer requests tend to
be general and safe. At the community level, prayer requests become more
personaland a little less safe. A group sticks its toes in the commission
level when it begins to pray about missions in general. It goes deep when
it starts praying for people who are far from God right in the oces,
schools, stores, teams, recreational centers, and neighborhoods where group
members do life every day.

78 Leader Guide
 SESSION 7

Solomon Asks
for Gods Wisdom
Summary and Goal

Solomon prayed for wisdom, and God granted him incredible blessings in response. We see how he
requested Gods wisdom, how he reigned in wisdom, and the blessings that resulted from his wisdom.
We also see how desperately Gods people today need the wisdom and insight that only comes from
walking with God.

Main Passages
1 Kings 3:5-28
1 Kings 4:29-34

Session Outline
1. The Request for Wisdom (1 Kings 3:5-15)
2. The Reign of Wisdom (1 Kings 3:16-28)
3. The Results of Wisdom (1 Kings 4:29-34)

Theological Theme
Gods promise to make His people a light to the nations began to come true during the reign of
Solomon, a king whose wisdom came from God.

Christ Connection
Solomon reigned with great wisdom and insight, and he foreshadows the coming of a greater king
Jesus, in whom is hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:3).

Missional Application
God calls us to depend on Him for wisdom from above and to live wisely before others as a testimony
to our all-wise God.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 79

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.
 Session Plan

Solomon Asks
for Gods Wisdom
Session 7

Introduction
Pack Item 1: Start things o by connecting Daniel Golemans concept of emotional
A Kingdom intelligence with what the Bible calls wisdom (leader p. 82; PSG p. 65).
Established
Display this poster in a Take a few minutes and discuss some of the great leaders
place that will help group
members follow the of history. What made them great leaders?
storyline of Scripture, to
remember where weve been
and where we are going.
Note that as Christians, we believe that wisdom is God-given and must
go beyond the worlds perspective (leader p. 82; PSG p. 66). State that
Solomon would display wisdom like no other leader in Israels history
(leader pp. 82-83). Then summarize this session about Solomons request for
wisdom (leader p. 83; PSG p. 66).
Point 1 Option
Show the video clip 1. The Request for Wisdom (1 Kings 3:5-15)
from the movie Aladdin
when Genie explains the Highlight that God appeared to Solomon in a vision, allowing him to ask for
limitations on his ability to what he needed as a ruler (leader p. 83; PSG p. 66).
grant wishes.
www.youtube.com/
watch?v=zB1oTrDyu-c Imagine if God told you to ask for anything from Him. What
immediately comes to mind? What would you be most
Then ask groups of 2-3
to read John 14:13-14 and likely to request?
James 1:5 and discuss
the following questions
(consider writing them Read 1 Kings 3:5-15, emphasizing that Solomon asked specically for
on a board or sheet of wisdom from among the many things he could have chosen. Call attention
paper for groups to have;
also available on the DVD
to Solomons posture, how he saw himself as he prayed. Explain how
in TheGospel Project for seeing ourselves as we truly are should lead us to beg God for His wisdom
Adults: Leader Pack): (leader pp. 83-84; PSG pp. 66-68).
People in our culture
sometimes view God as
a genie. How would you In what areas of your life do you feel self-sufficient?
explain the difference
between genies and the In what areas would you most likely lean on your own
God of the Bible?
understanding and not ask for Gods wisdom?
What is the difference
between Solomons
response to Gods offer Show how Solomons purpose for requesting Gods wisdom was others-
and Aladdins response to centered and why this kind of request is pleasing to God (leader p. 85;
Genies offer?
PSG p. 68).

80 Leader Guide
 For what relationships in your life do you most need Gods
wisdom right now? Why? For Further
Discussion
2. The Reign of Wisdom (1 Kings 3:16-28) What similarities are there
Read 1 Kings 3:16-28, noting that the story shows how God answered between asking God for
wisdom and children asking
Solomons prayer (leader pp. 85-86; PSG p. 69). for help from their parents?
What differences are there
When have you sensed the Lord granting you wisdom as between asking God for
you gave advice to someone or as you made a decision? wisdom and children asking
for help from their parents?
Explain the circumstances.

Compare our asking God for wisdom to children asking parents for their
help (leader p. 87). Explain that there are problems in life in which a solution Point 3 Option
is not clear and that they will require us to ask God for wisdom (leader p. 87; Provide groups of 3-4 with
PSG p. 70). a copy of Proverbs 3:13-18
(see leader p. 88; a
template is available on the
What keeps us from expecting God to joyfully grant us DVD in TheGospel Project
wisdom when we ask for it? for Adults: Leader Pack),
and ask the groups to write
a parallel version of this
3. The Results of Wisdom (1 Kings 4:29-34) section of Proverbs but
Ask a volunteer to read 1 Kings 4:29-34 (leader p. 87; PSG p. 70). Refer to with the competing idea of
pursuing something other
Proverbs 3:13-18 to show that we are at our best when we are walking in than wisdom (ex. fame,
Gods wisdom (leader p. 88). pleasure, wealth). After
a few minutes, ask the
following questions:
Tell the group that wisdom is to be desired more than money, power, or Was this proverb easy to
approval. One area we especially need wisdom is in the area of missionGod write? Why or why not?
gives wisdom so we can better announce the gospel to the world. Say that How does your proverb
compare to James 3:13-18?
if we are going to be salt and light in this world, we need wisdom to rightly Is it more like wisdom
relate to the non-Christians around us (leader p. 88; PSG p. 71). from above or more like
earthly wisdom? Why?
What are some ways you can celebrate Gods wisdom in
your life?
Christ Connection: Solomon
How would you explain to someone that wisdom is more reigned with great wisdom
valuable than wealth, power, or approval? and insight, and he
foreshadows the coming
of a greater kingJesus,
Conclusion in whom is hidden all the
treasures of wisdom and
Point out that Solomons story shows us much to emulate. Stress that more knowledge (Col. 2:3).
importantly Solomons life stirs within us a longing for a true kingJesus ........................................................
Christ, the perfect King who rules and reigns in innite wisdom. Mention
Missional Application: God
Pauls words in Colossians 2:3 about all wisdom being found in Christ calls us to depend on Him
(leader p. 89; PSG p. 72). Apply the truths of this session with His Mission, for wisdom from above and
to live wisely before others
Your Mission (PSG p. 73). as a testimony to our
all-wise God.

Session 7 81

Voices from
the Church
Wisdom should not be
equated with intellectual
giftedness or philosophical
brilliance. Wisdom
expresses itself in the way
one lives. Human beings
do not have the capacity
to acquire wisdom on their
own, for that would require
ascending to heaven, and
thus those who are wise
put their trust in the words
revealed by God. 2
Tom Schreiner
82 Leader Guide
Expanded Session Content
Solomon Asks
for Gods Wisdom
Session 7
Introduction
What makes a great leader? We could list many things here: a
prestigious education, high intelligence, a proven track record of
achievement, a charismatic personality, or the ability to cast vision. These
qualities could make a great leader, but they do not guarantee
great leadership.
In Emotional Intelligence, Daniel Goleman argues that what makes
a great leader is not a high IQ or o-the-charts talent. What makes
a great leader, he argues, is someone with a high level of emotional
intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the sum of ve skills: self-awareness,
self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skill. 1
Though he sometimes misses the mark in his analysis, Goleman
was essentially describing what the Bible calls wisdom. Wisdom is the
ability to distinguish between right and wrong. Its knowing what to do
when, quite frankly, we dont know what to do. A good leader is a wise
leader. Good leaders must know how to manage themselves, relate well to
others, and discern between good and evil. They know how to navigate in
choppy waters.
Take a few minutes and discuss some of the great leaders
of history. What made them great leaders?
As Christians, we believe that wisdom must go beyond the worlds
perspective because we believe wisdom comes from an all-wise God. God
desires to give us wisdom as part of our relationship with Him. As we
pursue Him by faith, He generously gives us the wisdom we need to live a
life pleasing to Him.
In considering wisdom, we turn to the story of Solomon, the wisest
of the kings of Israel. When God freed the people of Israel from slavery in
Egypt, they were to be a light to all the other nations around them. They
were to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation (Ex. 19:6). But this
mission would be impossible if they were not led by people who feared the
Lord and walked in His ways.
 In 1 Kings 3, we see Solomon asking for the very thing he needed
to be the king God desiredwisdom. Neither power nor wealth nor
charisma would be enough to reign over the people God had called out
for Himself. Rather, wisdom would be the distinguishing mark of the
kind of king God wanted for Israel. Solomon displayed this reality like
no other.

Session Summary
In this session, we examine Solomons prayer for wisdom and the
incredible blessings God granted him in response. We will see how he
requested Gods wisdom, how he reigned in wisdom, and the blessings
that resulted from his wisdom. We will also see how desperately Gods
people today need the wisdom and insight that only comes from walking
with God.

1. The Request for Wisdom (1 Kings 3:5-15)

We begin with one of the most remarkable stories in the Old Further
Testament. God appeared to Solomon in a vision and said, Ask what Commentary
I shall give you (v. 5). Many of us would love for God to come to us and The attitude of heart
ask this question. or mind which listens
to and obeys God is the
foundation of all true
Imagine if God told you to ask for anything from Him. What wisdom (Prov. 9:10). This
immediately comes to mind? What would you be most results in a heart with a
skill to listen (NEB; Heb.
likely to request? a hearing heart; NIV a
discerning heart) able
Solomon could have asked for all sorts of things, but he chose to to distinguish right and
wrong and to decide and
request wisdom. Below, we will look closely at two things about this govern (AV judge). The
prayer: Solomons posture in the prayer and his purpose for the prayer. heart (Heb. lb) includes
mind and will and is not
the seat of the emotions,
5
At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God for in Hebrew thought
compassion emanates
said, Ask what I shall give you. 6 And Solomon said, You have shown from the bowels. 3
great and steadfast love to your servant David my father, because he Donald J. Wiseman
walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of
heart toward you. And you have kept for him this great and steadfast love
and have given him a son to sit on his throne this day. 7 And now, O LORD
my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father,
although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in.
8
And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen,
a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. 9 Give
your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that
I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your
great people?

Session 7 83

Voices from
the Church
We tell ourselves, understanding to discern what is right, 12 behold, I now do according
Strong Christians pray to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that
a lot. If I were a stronger
Christian, Id pray more. none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you.
Strong Christians do pray
more, but they pray more
because they realize
how weak they are. They
dont try to hide it from
themselves. Weakness is
the channel that allows
them to access grace. 4
Paul Miller
Voices from
Church History
We are accustomed to
admit freely that God is
more powerful than we
are, but not that He is
wiser than we are. To be
sure, we may say that
He is; but when it comes
to a showdown, we do
not want to act on what
we say. 5
Martin Luther (1483-1546)
84 Leader Guide
10
It pleased the LORD that Solomon had asked this. 11 And God said
to him, Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself
long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself
13
I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that
no other king shall compare with you, all your days. 14 And if you will
walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your
father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.
15
And Solomon awoke, and behold, it was a dream. Then he came
to Jerusalem and stood before the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and
oered up burnt oerings and peace oerings, and made a feast for all
his servants.
Solomons Posture in This Prayer
Notice how Solomon saw himself as he prayed. He began by
confessing that he was but a little child [who does] not know how to go
out or come in (v. 7). He admitted that he had no business being the king
of such a great people. In addition, he recognized that he was there only by
divine appointment: You have made your servant king in place of David
my father (v. 7). God placed him there. It was an act of Gods grace.
Seeing himself and his weaknesses, Solomon felt compelled to ask for
the one thing he knew he could not live withoutGods wisdom.
Solomon was living out what he would write some years later: Trust in
the L with all your heart, and do not lean on your own
understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make
straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the L, and turn
away from evil (Prov. 3:5-7).
Seeing ourselves as we truly are should drive us to beg God for His
wisdom. Recognizing Gods grace in our lives and admitting that the task
before us is impossible in our own strength humbles us and causes us to
reach out for divine wisdom. When we think too highly of ourselves, we
are in danger of walking in our own wisdom and strength.
Jesus told His disciples: I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever
abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from
me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away
like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the
re, and burned (John 15:5-6). What a good reminder for us! We truly
are nothing without Him, though many of us have a hard time admitting
this. We must trust that humbling ourselves before God in this way is
always the best for us. We will never regret depending fully on God and
casting all our care and anxiety on Him.
 In what areas of your life do you feel self-sufficient?

In what areas would you most likely lean on your own

Further
understanding and not ask for Gods wisdom?
Commentary
Solomon is portrayed as
the ideal wise king who
Solomons Purpose in This Prayer demonstrated wisdom
Solomon asked for Gods wisdom in order to lead Gods people well. (hokm) in its many
aspects. Wisdom covers
He made a request for himself, but his intention was to use this wisdom all human experience. It
to lead the people of Israel with justice and equity. In other words, his includes understanding
(bn), insight (tebn)
motivation for wanting wisdom was others-centered. Thats one reason and intelligence. Rightly
why his prayer pleased the Lord. used, it brings success and
prosperity (kal). These
God gives us wisdom so we can relate rightly to those around us. We synonyms of wisdom,
need wisdom to be godly friends, husbands, wives, parents, and bosses. with knowledge (ydh),
are qualities required in
James, the brother of Jesus, once oered a stark warning about asking leadership, as shown by
for things only for ourselves when he wrote: You desire and do not have, David (1 Sam. 18:14) and
the Messiah (Jer. 23:5;
so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you ght and quarrel. You 1 Cor. 1:24). True wisdom
do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because is the creative gift of God,
of whom it is an attribute
you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions (Jas. 4:2-3). Often we want (Job 12:13; Prov. 3:19).
God to give us things because of what it does for us. Our comfort and our Wisdom is the right
understanding of reality
pleasure are at the center of our minds. Solomon made a request because he and is the basis of moral
had a godly desire to bless and lead others. and ethical life (Job 11:6;
Prov. 2:6). It is expressed
in the conduct of life in the
For what relationships in your life do you most need Gods fear (reverence, awe) of
wisdom right now? Why? the LORD, which is its chief
origin and aim (Job 28:28;
Prov. 1:7, etc.). It arises
2. The Reign of Wisdom (1 Kings 3:16-28) from an attitude of heart
or mind (1 Kings 3:7,12)
After Solomons prayer for wisdom, we see him confronted with a and is expressed also in
situation that will test the depth of understanding God has given him. prudence in secular affairs.
Wisdom marks technical
Two prostitutes approached the king to resolve a dispute. Lets look at the skills and craftsmanship
story and see how Solomon responded. (Ex. 25:3; 31:3,6). It is also
demonstrated by ability
in judgment between
16
Then two prostitutes came to the king and stood before him. 17 The right and wrong (1 Kings 3;
4:28) and its application
one woman said, Oh, my lord, this woman and I live in the same house, in good administration
and I gave birth to a child while she was in the house. 18 Then on the third (1 Kings 10:4,24; cf. Joseph:
Ps. 105:16-22; Acts 7:10). 6
day after I gave birth, this woman also gave birth. And we were alone.
Donald J. Wiseman
There was no one else with us in the house; only we two were in the house.
19
And this womans son died in the night, because she lay on him. 20 And
she arose at midnight and took my son from beside me, while your servant
slept, and laid him at her breast, and laid her dead son at my breast.
21
When I rose in the morning to nurse my child, behold, he was dead. But
when I looked at him closely in the morning, behold, he was not the child
that I had borne. 22 But the other woman said, No, the living child is
mine, and the dead child is yours. The rst said, No, the dead child is
yours, and the living child is mine. Thus they spoke before the king.

Session 7 85

Voices from
Church History
If all the compassions of
all the tender fathers in
the world were crowded
into the bowels of one, yet
compared with the tender
mercies of our God, they
would be but as a candle
to the sun, or a drop to the
ocean. God is more rich,
and more ready to give
to his children than the
fathers of our flesh can
be; for he is the Father of
our spirits, an ever-loving,
ever-living Father. 7
Matthew Henry
(1662-1714)
Further
Commentary
In 1 Kings 3, God allowed
Solomon to request
anything he wanted
in his new role as king.
Solomon petitioned God
for a discerning heart to
govern your people and to
distinguish between right
and wrong (1 Kings 3:9,
NIV). Clearly, God granted
Solomon this request
because in 1 Kings 4:29-30
Solomon is said to have
had chokmah (wisdom)
greater than any other
man. In effect, Solomon
asked God for wisdom
in deciding moral issues.
Fundamentally, right
and wrong pertained to
Gods purposes rather
than merely moral good
and evil. Interestingly
apparent through a word
study comparison of the
Hebrew word for wisdom
with two Greek words for
wisdom, God granted
Solomon a much wider
scope of wisdom than
he requested. 8
L. Manning Garrett III,
Biblical Illustrator
86 Leader Guide
23
Then the king said, The
one says, This is my son that
is alive, and your son is dead;
and the other says, No; but
your son is dead, and my son
is the living one. 24 And the
king said, Bring me a sword.
So a sword was brought before
the king. 25 And the king said,
Divide the living child in
two, and give half to the one
and half to the other. 26 Then
the woman whose son was
alive said to the king, because her heart yearned for her son, Oh, my
lord, give her the living child, and by no means put him to death. But
the other said, He shall be neither mine nor yours; divide him. 27 Then
the king answered and said, Give the living child to the rst woman,
and by no means put him to death; she is his mother. 28 And all Israel
heard of the judgment that the king had rendered, and they stood in awe
of the king, because they perceived that the wisdom of God was in him to
do justice.
This story shows that God truly answered the prayer of Solomon. The
people of Israel saw their king reigning in wisdom and discernment in a
way that could only be attributed to God. Here we have proof that when
God promised to give Solomon wisdom, He was committed to fullling
His promise. This is the kind of God we serve, One who does what He
says He will do.
This story shows us that we should not only ask for Gods wisdom
we should expect it! James reminded us of this when he wrote: If any of
you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without
reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no
doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven
and tossed by the wind (Jas. 1:5-6). That is Gods wisdom at work. He
gives it generously as we pursue Him by faith.
When have you sensed the Lord granting you wisdom as
you gave advice to someone or as you made a decision?
Explain the circumstances.
 Parents understand the importance of asking for something. How
tragic would it be if our children needed our help but failed to ask us
for fear we would not grant it! Our God is a prayer-answering God. He
responds to our cries for wisdom because it is something He loves to grant.
Jesus said: Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will
give him a stone? Or if he asks for a sh, will give him a serpent? If you
then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how
much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those
who ask him! (Matt. 7:9-11). Our God longs to see His people walk in
wisdom, which is why He is so eager to grant it as we ask it of Him.
I highly doubt you will be confronted with the same situation as
Solomon (lets hope not!). But I can promise that you will face problems
in which the solution is not clear. For instance, a business deal comes
your way that could change your life dramatically, yet it requires moving
your family across the country. What do you do? Or one day your child
asks you why his classmate has two mommies. What do you say? How do
you respond?
There are countless situations in which we need wisdom. Thankfully,
our God is the all-wise God. He alone has all wisdom and understanding.
Let us go to Him and expect that He will respond to us.

What keeps us from expecting God to joyfully grant us

wisdom when we ask for it?

3. The Results of Wisdom (1 Kings 4:29-34)

Weve seen how Solomon asked God for wisdom and then how God Further
gave him wisdom in order to reign with justice over Israel. Now we see Commentary
how Solomons wisdom resulted in the spread of Israels fame to the rest of Israels welcoming
the world. Solomons reputation spread to all the nations around him, and approach to the wisdom of
other nations was far from
his knowledge of the world seemed to have no limits. We see here the an uncritical acceptance
wonderful blessings that came to him when he humbly submitted himself of whatever they found
thereGod had given a
to God and walked in the wisdom God provided. measure of wisdom to
all peoples, but he had
29 uniquely given the Torah
And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond to Israel (Ps. 147:19-20)So
measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore, 30 so that while a missional approach
to other cultures will seek
Solomons wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east and to affirm whatever it can
all the wisdom of Egypt. 31 For he was wiser than all other men, wiser there, it will also discern the
marks of sin, selshness
than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, the sons of and idolatry that infect
Mahol, and his fame was in all the surrounding nations. 32 He also spoke all cultures. 9
3,000 proverbs, and his songs were 1,005. 33 He spoke of trees, from the Christopher J. H. Wright
cedar that is in Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of the wall. He spoke
also of beasts, and of birds, and of reptiles, and of sh. 34 And people of all
nations came to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and from all the kings of the
earth, who had heard of his wisdom.

Session 7 87

Voices from
Church History
O then do not leave, but
be continually waiting at
wisdoms gate, and you
shall find all her ways to be
ways of pleasantness, and
all her paths are peace;
then, you shall find that
it is worth waiting on the
Lord Jesus; and when you
have got his Spirit within
you, all the power of men
or devils cannot make you
forsake the ways of the
Lord Jesus Christ. 10
George Whitefield
(1714-1770)
88 Leader Guide
We are always at our best when we are walking in Gods wisdom.
While we may not compose 3,000 proverbs, we can trust God for
wisdom as we talk to our neighbor about the gospel. We can wisely
respond to our spouse who may be walking through a dicult season.
We can navigate the rocky terrain of life as we receive the wisdom
God provides.
This is why Solomon wrote so elegantly about pursuing wisdom:
Blessed is the one who nds wisdom, and the one who gets
understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver
and her prot better than gold. She is more precious than jewels, and
nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness,
and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of
her; those who hold her fast are called blessed. (Prov. 3:13-18)
How true this is! We need wisdom more than anythingeven a pay
raise! We must ght to believe this. Too often we think that money or
power or approval is what we need the most. But Solomons life is evidence
that when all is said and done, it is wisdom from God that aids us best in
our time of need.
One area we especially need wisdom in is the area of mission. God
gives us wisdom so we can better announce the gospel to the world. In
other words, wisdom is for mission!
If we are going to be salt and light in the world, we need wisdom. We
need it to rightly relate to the non-Christians around us. We need it to
show how money and power and pleasure are not what matter most in this
life. We need it as we interact with those who are skeptical or even hostile
to Christianity. This is why Paul said, Walk in wisdom toward outsiders,
making the best use of the time (Col. 4:5). It was because of Solomons
wisdomgranted by Godthat people came from everywhere to hear
from him (1 Kings 4:34).
Wisdom makes us appealing and attractive to those around us.
The world needs to see God-given wisdom. They need to see Christians
walking wisely when it comes to money, parenting, and suering. They
need to see that the gospel has fully equipped us and empowered us to live
righteous and upright lives in this world (Titus 2:11-13).
 I think of my own neighborhood. We are surrounded by people who
do not know the Lordand seem to have no desire to do so. I need 99 Essential
wisdom to know how to talk with them, and live winsomely around them. Christian Doctrines
They need to see wisdom on display in my life as I interact with my wife 18. God Is Truthful
and kids and as I talk about the world. We need wisdom in order to serve, The Scriptures are clear
that in God there is no
bless, and love those around us. falsehood (Titus 1:2;
Heb. 6:18). God represents
What are some ways you can celebrate Gods wisdom in things as they really are.
Everything He says can
your life? be trusted because God
guarantees the truth of
How would you explain to someone that wisdom is more everything He tells us.
The call for humans to be
valuable than wealth, power, or approval? honest and not to bear
false witness is rooted in
the utter truthfulness of our
Conclusion Creator. Telling the truth is
As we unpack the story of Solomon, we see a king who got it right in one way we bear the image
of God, whose Son is the
so many ways. God used him in a tremendous way. His story shows us way, and the truth, and the
much to emulate. life (John 14:6).
But more than anything, Solomons life stirs within us a longing
for a true king. We long for one to rule over us in perfect wisdom and
faithfulness. Solomon points us to a perfect king, one who would reign
in wisdom and never falter in his trust in God. He points us to Jesus
Christ, the true King who rules and reigns in innite wisdom. In fact,
Paul said that in [Christ] are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and
knowledge (Col. 2:3).
There is a King like Solomon, but even better than Solomon. We
can know this King. We can come under the reign and lordship of this
King, and the wise person is the one who looks to Jesus and fully submits
to Him in everything. You want to see wisdom? Then take a glance at
Solomon, but set your gaze on Jesus. May we live for our true King and
announce His kingship to the world around us.

CHRIST CONNECTION: Solomon reigned with great wisdom

and insight, and he foreshadows the coming of a greater king
Jesus, in whom is hidden all the treasures of wisdom and
knowledge (Col. 2:3).

Session 7 89
 Additional Resources

Solomon Asks
for Gods Wisdom
References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry
1. Daniel Goleman, Emotional Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
Intelligence (New York:
Bantam, 2006). Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
2. Thomas R. Schreiner, The King in blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
His Beauty (Grand Rapids: Baker,
2013), 288.
3. Donald J. Wiseman, 1and 2Kings,
vol. 9 in Tyndale Old Testament
Study Material
Commentaries (Downers Grove:
IVP, 2008), 92. - Solomon and WisdomEpisode 6, Act 1 from Telling Gods Story
4. Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life
(Colorado Springs: NavPress, by Preben Vang and Terry G. Carter
2009), 56.
5. Martin Luther, in What Luther - The Beginning of WisdomArticle by Ravi Zacharias; nd a link to
Says, comp. Ewald M. Plass (Saint
Louis: Concordia Publishing House, this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
1959), 1453.
6. Donald J. Wiseman, 1and 2Kings, - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including What Is Wisdom?
vol. 9 in Tyndale Old Testament can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at
Commentaries, 94.
7. Matthew Henry, Commentary LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
on the Whole Bible (Peabody, MA:
Hendrickson Publishers,
1994), 1644.
8. L. Manning Garrett III, What Sermon Podcast
Is Wisdom? Biblical Illustrator
(Spring 2003): 20.
9. Christopher J. H. Wright, The
Gary Inrig: A Strong Beginning
Mission of God (Downers Grove:
IVP, 2006), 446-47.
10. George Whiteeld, An Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Exhortation to the People of God
Not to Be Discouraged in Their
Way, by the Scoffs and Contempt
of Wicked Men, in Sermons on
Important Subjects (London: Tip of the Week
Henry Fisher, Son, and P. Jackson,
1828), 606. Staying Fresh as a Teacher
If were going to teach well, we must continue to learn well. If we fail
to continue to learn, our message will become stagnant and old. When
we stop learning, we stop growing, and when we stop growing, we stop
teaching in a way that changes lives. We teach what we learn. If you want
to be a great teachera transformational teacherthink of yourself as
a learner rst. Read something that challenges you. Try to read at least
one book a month. Make it a habit of regularly reading a newspaper (all
sections) from a major city (the Internet makes this so much easier than it
was 30 years ago). Attend a seminar on a subject you have interest in but
have not mastered. Keep learning so you can keep teaching well.

90 Leader Guide
 SESSION 8

Wisdom for Gods People

Summary and Goal

God has given us His Word to instruct us in how to walk in wisdom. In the Book of Proverbs, we
see how wisdom is rooted in the fear of the Lord, how it leads us to trust in God, and how it oers us
practical guidance in everyday matters of life. We also see that wisdom points us to Jesus Christ, and
wisdom in the life of the Christian leads us to point others to Him as well.

Main Passages
Proverbs 1:1-7
Proverbs 3:1-12
Proverbs 22:1-10

Session Outline
1. Wisdom is rooted in the fear of God (Prov. 1:1-7).
2. Wisdom leads us to faith in God (Prov. 3:1-12).
3. Wisdom shows us how to live in the world God has made (Prov. 22:1-10).

Theological Theme
Biblical wisdom involves the skill of faithful living in the world God has made.

Christ Connection
Wisdom is the skill of living faithfully in Gods world, but all of us have sinned. Wisdom shows us
how to live but cannot save us. For this reason, Jesus became God-given wisdom for us (1 Cor. 1:30)
so that through His death and resurrection (which appear foolish to the world), we might be saved
according to the wise plan of God.

Missional Application
God calls us to follow the path of the wise and, like the Wisdom character in Proverbs, to call others
to faithful and wise living through Jesus.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 91

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Introduction Option
Before the group meeting
begins, post on opposite
sides of one wall the
following phrases:
Relationship with God
Relationships with Others
As group members arrive,
point out the spectrum
created by the two phrases
on the one wall. Ask:
Is wisdom more about
our relationship with
God or our relationships
with other people? and
encourage them to stand
along the spectrum in a
place that matches their
answer to that question.
Read the Voices from
the Church quote by
Jay Adams (leader p. 94;
PSG p. 74), and then ask the
following question:
Why must the exercise
of wisdom involve both a
relationship with God and
relationships with people?
For Further
Discussion
How would you explain the
concept the fear of the
LORD to an unbeliever?
How does our fear of God
t with our love for God?
92 Leader Guide
Session Plan
Wisdom for
Gods People
Session 8
Introduction
Begin with the question What is wisdom? (leader p. 94; PSG p. 74). Refer
to Proverbs 6:6-8 and 30:24-25 to show how the Bible illustrates wisdom
using ants (leader p. 94).
What comes to mind when you hear the word wisdom?
What are some situations you are facing right now in which
wisdom is needed?
Draw attention to the Proverbs information on Pack Item 7: Wisdom Literature
as needed throughout this session. Summarize this session on the Book of Proverbs,
which God has given to instruct us how to walk in wisdom (leader p. 95;
PSG p. 75).
1. Wisdom is rooted in the fear of God (Prov. 1:1-7).
State that wisdom starts with a relationship with God (leader p. 95), and then
ask a volunteer to read Proverbs 1:1-7. Note what wisdom involves, stressing
that it is a gift from God (leader p. 95; PSG p. 75).
How will a Christians receiving of instruction differ from
an unbelievers?
Point out that wisdom is more than merely information because it involves
the fear of God. Establish that theres a dierence between worldly wisdom
and biblical wisdom (leader p. 96; PSG p. 76).
Why is fearing the Lord essential to become wise?
Why is it impossible for people to be truly wise without
fearing God and walking in His ways?
2. Wisdom leads us to faith in God (Prov. 3:1-12).
Contrast biblical wisdom with the popular idea of believing in yourself.
Then read Proverbs 3:1-12. Show that faith in God means we throw off
self-reliance (leader pp. 97-98; PSG pp. 76-77).
 Write down a few areas of life in which you are tempted to
rely on yourself. What would shifting your reliance from self Point 2 Option
to the Lord look like in these cases? Ask: How is Gods
omniscience both good
news and bad news
Say that Solomon, in verses 9-10, tells us that faith in God means we let for sinners?
Him manage our finances. Address how much more should we honor God
Read the Essential
with our wealth as Christians living this side of the cross (leader p. 98; Christian Doctrine God Is
PSG p. 78). Omniscient (leader p. 98;
PSG p. 77), and ask the
following questions:
What does foolishness look like in nancial matters? What Why should Gods
does wisdom look like? omniscience humble us
and cause us to fear Him?
Also explain that faith in God means we suffer well. Stress that Gods love How does this attribute
of God free us from
for us must include that He discipline us; as Gods children, what feels like self-reliance and our own
God harming us is actually a form of healing (leader p. 99; PSG pp. 78-79). ideas of wisdom?

What are some of the obstacles we face when it comes to

faith in God?
For Further
How can we see difficulties not as obstacles but as Discussion
opportunities for trusting in God? In which areas of life are
we most prone to merely
hear Gods words but not
3. Wisdom shows us how to live in the world do them?
God has made (Prov. 22:1-10).
Read Proverbs 22:1-10. Appeal to James 1:22 to speak about the dangers of
merely hearing Gods words but not doing them (leader p. 100; PSG pp. 79-80).

In the proverbs above, what are some practical takeaways

you see? Christ Connection: Wisdom
is the skill of living faithfully
in Gods world, but all of
Break into groups of 2-3 and allow a few minutes for group members to fill out us have sinned. Wisdom
shows us how to live but
the table in the PSG in response to the discussion question above. Use the answers cannot save us. For this
provided in the leader content to converse with the group members about what reason, Jesus became
God-given wisdom for us
they have written (leader pp. 100-101; PSG p. 80). (1 Cor. 1:30) so that through
His death and resurrection
We sometimes make foolish mistakes, even when we (which appear foolish to
the world), we might be
know the wiser way. How does the gospel help us deal with saved according to the wise
our foolishness? plan of God.
........................................................
Conclusion Missional Application:
Close the session with 1 Corinthians 1:30, saying that in Jesus we see that God calls us to follow the
path of the wise and, like
wisdom isnt merely information; wisdom is a Person (a connection made on the Wisdom character in
Pack Item 3: Seeing Jesus in the Kingdom). By placing our faith in Jesus, Proverbs, to call others
to faithful and wise living
He makes us wise people (leader p. 101; PSG p. 81). Apply the truths of this through Jesus.
session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 82).

Session 8 93
 Expanded Session Content

Wisdom for
Gods People
Session 8

Introduction
Voices from What is wisdom? Some people point to knowledge and information.
the Church Others may think of wisdom as life experience. A few might recall pithy
As the Psalms focus on one-liners similar to what you nd in fortune cookies.
man in relationship to God, But how does the Bible talk about wisdom? We need look no further
the Proverbs focus on man
in relationship to man. But than the ant. Yes, the ant! Now, I know ants are rarely chosen as the
the relationships one bears epitome of, well, anything. But that is the point that Solomon wanted
to other men are always
against the backdrop of to make when he used the ant as an example of wisdom: Go to the ant,
ones relationship to God, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief,
which affects these lesser
ones at all points. 1 ocer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food
Jay Adams in harvestFour things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly
wise: the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the
summer (Prov. 6:6-8; 30:24-25).
The focus here is not the ants knowledge or experience or intellect.
The point is the ant knows how to live. The ant knows what it should do. It
knows how to navigate the seasons of life. What an amazing, but unlikely,
place to look for wisdom, insight, and discernment!
Wisdom is not less than knowledge, but it is certainly more than
knowledge. Wisdom isnt so much about knowing that; its more about
knowing how. Wise people know how to live faithfully in the world. They
know how to tame their tongue, delay gratication, control their appetites
and desires, and how to suer well.
As Christians, we are constantly presented with situations in which
wisdom is required. For example, I have three young boys; each is wired
dierently. One is an extreme introvert, one an extreme extrovert, and the
other somewhere in between. They dont want the same things in the same
ways. They respond dierently to correction. One cries, one protests, and
one ignores me altogether. I need wisdom as a parent, and I believe that in
whatever situation you nd yourself today, you need wisdom as well.

What comes to mind when you hear the word wisdom?

What are some situations you are facing right now in which
wisdom is needed?

94 Leader Guide
 Session Summary
In this session, we look at the Proverbs to see how God has given Further
us His Word to instruct us in how to walk in wisdom. We will see how Commentary
wisdom is rooted in the fear of the Lord, how it leads us to trust in God, Wisdom is having
and how it oers us practical guidance in everyday matters of life. Well mastery of a subject
of knowledge; it
also see that wisdom points us to Jesus Christ, and wisdom in the life of encompasses discipline,
the Christian will lead us to point others to Him as well. knowledge, prudence,
and other virtues. It is the
ability to apply knowledge
1. Wisdom is rooted in the fear of God (Prov. 1:1-7). to overcome any problem
in life. Biblical wisdom,
Wisdom starts with a relationship with God. He is the fountain of all which is a gift from God
wisdom, insight, and knowledge, and thus, only the fool attempts to live (2:6), includes morality
and the knowledge of
without God. That is the argument Solomon made in the opening verses God. Discipline has to
of Proverbs: do with warnings about
the consequences of
errant behavior, or loving
1
The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: correction to those who
2 have failed to heed such
To know wisdom and instruction, warnings. It can involve
to understand words of insight, physical punishment. The
3 Hebrew word is often
to receive instruction in wise dealing, translated instruction (v. 3)
in righteousness, justice, and equity; because the goal is always
4 edication and education,
to give prudence to the simple, not just punishment.
knowledge and discretion to the youth Understanding means
5 internalizing knowledge
Let the wise hear and increase in learning, so that it directs action.
and the one who understands obtain guidance, Insightful sayings are
6 those that reveal truth.
to understand a proverb and a saying, Wise instruction is
the words of the wise and their riddles. literally the discipline
7 of prudence. Prudence is
The fear of the LORD skill or cleverness; a talent
is the beginning of knowledge; for insight, observation, or
scrutiny; practical wisdom
fools despise wisdom and instruction. that leads to success. The
word is translated wise/
Notice rst how being wise is related to receiving information. wiser/wisdom (v. 3; 14:35;
16:23; 17:2; 21:11,16), prudent
Wisdom involves understanding, words of insight, instruction, learning, and (10:5), discerning (15:24),
knowledge. As previously stated, wisdom is more than information, but it understands (16:20),
succeeds (17:8), sensible
is certainly not less. Knowing how to live is dependent on ideas, sayings, (19:14), and considers
and teachings. (21:12). This cleverness
is morally guided by
So wisdom isnt just something that comes to us, like a special righteousness (agreement
intuition; it is a gift from God that is granted through His Word (which with Gods directives),
justice (restoration of
includes Proverbs31 chapters of information). God wants us to hear, what is right), and integrity
learn, and obey. He intends to instruct, guide, and exhort His people with (what is straight, right,
and fair). 2
knowledge and insight. David K. Stabnow,
This means that as Christians, we must avail ourselves to the HCSB Study Bible
knowledge and information around us. We must be diligent to study and
read and learn and grow.

Session 8 95

Further
Commentary
The beginning (i.e. the
rst and controlling
principle, rather than a
stage which one leaves
behind; cf. Eccl. 12:13) is not
merely a right method of
thought but a right relation:
a worshipping submission
(fear) to the God of
the covenant, who has
revealed himself by name
(the Lord, i.e. Yahweh:
Ex. 3:13-15). Knowledge,
then, in its full sense, is a
relationship, dependent on
revelation and inseparable
from character (wisdom
and training, 7b). When
we fence off (as we must)
limited elds of knowledge
for special study, the
missing context must
be remembered, or our
knowing is precocious and
distorted, as at the fall,
and we end by knowing
less (cf. 3:7; Rom. 1:21,22),
not more. 3
Derek Kidner
Voices from
Church History
Except a man fear the
Lord, he is unable to
renounce sin. 4
Ambrose (circa 340-397)
96 Leader Guide
How will a Christians receiving of instruction differ from
an unbelievers?
Wisdom involves information. But we must never believe that because
we have lots of information we are wise. Solomon went on to say that
wisdom is rooted in the fear of the Lord (v. 7). We must start with God,
who alone possesses all wisdom and knowledge.
Think about that for a moment. God literally knows all things about
all things. He never learns. He never has a new thought. He is never
surprised by new information. He knows all information exhaustively. He
is an expert on everything. There is no body of information out there that
He doesnt know about. For this reason, it is foolish not to fear Him (v. 7).
God is not one option among many avenues to true wisdom. He is the
only option!
Wisdom, in the biblical sense, is not available to someone who does
not fear the Lord or walk in His ways. In other words, we cannot expect
God to give us wisdom without also expecting Him to ask for our full
obedience. It cant work any other way. We go to Him rst. We desire
Him rst. Only then does God pour out His wisdom on us. We must fear
Him, which doesnt mean we cower in fear before Him but that we learn
to revere Him and regard Him above all things. No one is more valuable,
no possession more precious to us, than the Lord.
We should also note here that Solomon used the word L
(Hebrew, YHWH). This is not a mere title; this is Gods name. Solomon
envisioned a person who feared the Lord and trusted that Heand He
alonebrought Israel out of Egypt and established the people for Himself.
This is the God who is to be feared and revered. And by doing so, we
become wise. No other denition of wisdom can suce.
Theres a dierence between worldly wisdom and biblical wisdom.
Although people in our society may have some level of wisdom, according
to the world, Solomon would make a distinction between the worlds
wisdom and true God-given wisdom. Biblical wisdom begins with the
fear of the Lord, and this is a central theme in Proverbs, and in the Bible
as a whole. The fear of the L is the beginning of wisdom, and the
knowledge of the Holy One is insight (Prov. 9:10, cf. Ps. 111:10). Wisdom
is rooted in fear of the Lord.
Why is fearing the Lord essential to become wise?
Why is it impossible for people to be truly wise without
fearing God and walking in His ways?
2. Wisdom leads us to faith in God (Prov. 3:1-12).
Its popular in our day to hear people say, You just have to believe in Further
yourself! In one sense, a measure of self-condence is something good Commentary
and healthy. But just believing in yourself as a way of life is the way of The Hebrew verb
foolishness. True wisdom leads us not to faith in ourselves but in God. translated trust is cognate
with an Arabic verb that
We saw earlier that the fool despises wisdom and discipline, which is means to throw oneself
another way of saying that the fool despises the Lord, since he does not down on ones face, to
lie down spread-eagle
fear the Lord. In this section we are going to see how wisdom leads us not in complete relianceto
only to fear the Lord but also to trust Him, rely on Him, and keep Him at make it as graphic as I can,
to do a belly-op on God
the center of our lives. with all our sin and all our
failure and all our fears.
1
We stake everything on
My son, do not forget my teaching, the gospel promises of
but let your heart keep my commandments, God. If God fails us, we
2
are [condemned]. If God
for length of days and years of life comes through, we are
and peace they will add to you. saved forever. Real trust
3
is that blunt and daring
Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; and simple. 5
bind them around your neck; Raymond C. Ortlund Jr.
write them on the tablet of your heart.
4
So you will nd favor and good success
in the sight of God and man.
5
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, Further
and do not lean on your own understanding. Commentary
6
In all your ways acknowledge him, The command to trust
and he will make straight your paths. God with all your heart
means that the total
7
Be not wise in your own eyes; personality is to be
fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. committed to Gods care,
although it emphasizes
8
It will be healing to your esh the mind and volition.
and refreshment to your bones. The prohibitions against
depending on ones own
9
Honor the LORD with your wealth understanding and against
and with the rstfruits of all your produce; intellectual pride (vv. 5b,7a)
implicitly reject a secular
10
then your barns will be lled with plenty, search for wisdom and
and your vats will be bursting with wine. look back to the thesis of
the book (1:7). 6
11
My son, do not despise the LORDs discipline Duane A. Garrett
or be weary of his reproof,
12
for the LORD reproves him whom he loves,
as a father the son in whom he delights.

If we had to summarize Solomons main point in this passage, we

might say: Put your faith in the Lord, not in yourself. Wisdom is rooted
in the fear of the Lord, and our fear of God must translate into a rock
solid faith in God. So what does faith in God look like?

Session 8 97

99 Essential
Christian Doctrines
9. God Is Omniscient
Scripture teaches that
God is all-knowing.
He is the One who is
perfect in knowledge
(Job 37:16), and this
knowledge extends to
all things past, present,
and future, including the
future decisions of His free
creatures. His knowledge
is complete, and as He is
outside of time, He has
known from all eternity
whatever will come to
pass. In response to Gods
omniscience, we admit
our nite knowledge and
trust His decisions as wise
and good.
98 Leader Guide
Faith in God means we throw off self-reliance (vv. 5-8).
Only fools think theyve arrived. In fact, they have arrived because
fools can go no further than their own worldly wisdom can take them!
This is why Solomon pleaded with his son to trust in the Lord with all his
might. This, in turn, meant he was never to trust his own wisdom and
understanding, nor to consider himself wise by his own standards.
We are not the standard of wisdom. We are not to trust in ourselves
and think that we have mastered life. In fact, it is impossible to trust in
ourselves and at the same time trust in the Lord. One will inevitably drive
out the other. Leaning on our experience and insight naturally tempers our
ability and urgency to trust in the Lord. On the other hand, the more we
trust in the Lord, the less we will trust in ourselves. We will discover that as
we trust in the Lord, He directs our paths and leads us into joy and peace.
Write down a few areas of life in which you are tempted to
rely on yourself. What would shifting your reliance from self
to the Lord look like in these cases?
Faith in God means we let Him manage our money (vv. 9-10).
It is impossible to talk about having faith in God without eventually
getting to the subject of money. Jesus said that we cannot serve God and
money (Matt. 6:24). Think about that for a second. Jesus did not say you cant
serve God and power. He did not say you cant serve God and popularity.
Both of those are true, but He said money because He knows that money
has a god-like power. It can give us power, status, acclaim, and security.
Solomon tells us that faith in God has to translate into trusting Him
with our nances. This starts with giving. We are to honor Him with the
rst fruits of our income. We can debate the ins and outs of how much
Christians ought to give and what percentage God expects of us. But lets
be certain that we always consider money and giving in light of the cross.
Solomon was talking about honoring God with our wealth before the
cross. How much more should we honor God with our wealth as people
who have seen and experienced the grace of God displayed through Jesus
death and resurrection! For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by
his poverty might become rich (2 Cor. 8:9).
Our God gave everything to us. This means that we can trust Him
with all our wealth and possessions. To state it clearly, we cannot say we
have faith in God if we do not trust Him with our money.
What does foolishness look like in nancial matters? What
does wisdom look like?
 Faith in God means we suffer well (vv. 11-12).
Since God loves us, He must discipline us. Because He wants our Voices from
growth, maturity, and holiness, He chooses to send trials and diculties the Church
our way. Solomon said we must interpret these events as evidence that To ask God to refrain from
God delights in us. He compared this to a father who delights in his son. giving us discipline would
be to ask Him to love
It is precisely because he delights in his son that he must discipline him. If us less. 8
my son runs into the street, knowing I commanded him not to, and if David K. Stabnow
I did not take action to discipline him, what kind of father would I be?
God is the perfect Father. He knows exactly how to discipline us and
bring about our good. Even though it feels like God is harming us, He is
actually healing us. We must not despise this, knowing that discipline is Voices from
medicine, not food. We dont enjoy medicine, but we know it kills o the Church History
bacteria and sickness that is robbing our health. Let not the Lords dealings
Suering and trials are a means to an endour joy and sanctication. with you seem harsh,
rough, or unfatherly,
They expose the things that we so dearly cling to for joy and security, and because it is unpleasant.
they reveal our lack of faith in God. But faith in God means that we trust When the Lords blessed
will bloweth cross your
Him especially in the midst of trials and sorrows, believing that He is desires, it is best in humility
good and does good (Ps. 119:68). to strike sail to him and to
be willing to be laid in any
Many of you have perhaps sung the hymn Trust and Obey. One way our Lord pleaseth:
of my favorite verses says: But we never can prove, The delights of His it is a point of denial of
yourself, to be as if ye had
love, Until all on the altar we lay; For the favor He shows, And the joy He not a will, but had made
bestows, Are for them who will trust and obey. 7 a free disposition of it to
God, and had sold it over
John Sammis, the man who wrote this hymn, understood what to him; and to make use of
Solomon was saying in this text. There is no greater way to experience his will for your own is both
true holiness, and your
the blessings and fullness God has for us than by trusting Him with ease and peace. 9
all our might and obeying all He says to do. This is our message to a Samuel Rutherford
world so consumed with self-reliance and self-exaltation. Wisdom oers (circa 1600-1661)

another way, a way into peace, joy, and hope. May we proclaim that
message boldly!

What are some of the obstacles we face when it comes to

faith in God?

How can we see difficulties not as obstacles but as

opportunities for trusting in God?

3. Wisdom shows us how to live in the world God

has made (Prov. 22:1-10).
Proverbs is a practical book. And that should come as no surprise since
wisdom is about life. Wisdom is truth in action. God wants us not only to
know things but to do things. Solomon intended for his hearers to actually
live out the truths and sayings he put forth. Here are some examples:

Session 8 99

Further
Commentary
This proverb [22:6] is not
a sure formula for success
in child rearing; it is an
assurance of how profound
a parents inuence can
bethough that inuence
might be rejected. The
Proverbs provide reliable
guidance but they do not
address every contingency
encountered in a sinful
world. Wise parents invest
in a child during the crucial,
early years, because such
care typically has godly
results. But even the best
parenting can result in a
prodigal and a prideful son
(Luke 15:11-32). Ultimately,
the way a child should
go (Prov. 22:6) is not a
college or career choice
but an eternal choice to
live for God. Such a way
is profoundly inuenced
by parents actions, but is
ultimately determined by
the childs heart. 10
Raymond C. Ortlund Jr.,
Gospel Transformation Bible
Voices from
the Church
The book of Proverbs
will not allow you to be a
passive learner, merely
soaking up information.
It requires you to put
Gods wisdom to work
in your life[S]omeone
once described Proverbs,
quite appropriately as the
Ten Commandments in
shoe leather, for in that
book we begin to see how
wisdom can be walked out
in real life. 11
Anthony Selvaggio
100 Leader Guide
1
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
and favor is better than silver or gold.
2
The rich and the poor meet together;
the LORD is the maker of them all.
3
The prudent sees danger and hides himself,
but the simple go on and suer for it.
4
The reward for humility and fear of the LORD
is riches and honor and life.
5
Thorns and snares are in the way of the crooked;
whoever guards his soul will keep far from them.
6
Train up a child in the way he should go;
even when he is old he will not depart from it.
7
The rich rules over the poor,
and the borrower is the slave of the lender.
8
Whoever sows injustice will reap calamity,
and the rod of his fury will fail.
9
Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed,
for he shares his bread with the poor.
10
Drive out a scoer, and strife will go out,
and quarreling and abuse will cease.
It is tempting to read the Lords words, talk about them, but never
actually do them. James warned us of the dangers of merely hearing the
word when he said, But be doers of the word, and not hearers only,
deceiving yourselves (Jas. 1:22).
Reading these words without doing them is self-deception. When
Jesus gave the Great Commission, He said, Go therefore and make
disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of
the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have
commanded you (Matt. 28:19-20, emphasis added). Jesus wants us to do
what He said, not simply learn what He said. We often fall into a mind-set
that suggests information automatically results in transformation. To be
sure, we need information, but what Jesus wants us to do is obey the
information weve been given.
In the proverbs above, what are some practical takeaways
you see?
Lets look at each verse in this section and summarize what Solomon
called us to do.
Verse 1: Build your character, not just your bank account.
Verse 2: Dont think your worth is based on what you have or dont have.
Verse 3: Know your limitations.
Verse 4: Be humble!
 Verse 5: Guard yourself.
Verse 6: Teach your children wisdom. Voices from
Verse 7: Be careful and wise with debt. the Church
Verse 8: Live justly. Living in wisdom leads to
Verse 9: Be generous. evangelismCompelled
by Christs love and guided
Verse 10: Dont be afraid to confront dicult people. by Scriptures wisdom, we
Now step back and look at this list. Think of all the areas that we covered seek to persuade people
to trust in Christ. Wisdom
and all the life issues we addressed. And that was in 10 verses! Wisdom comes looks to Christ and points
crashing into every aspect of our livesour nances, how we parent, our others to Him as well. 12
attitudes, and our posture toward the world. Wisdom leaves no stone Jonathan Leeman
unturned when it comes to our lives. God has spoken to us. The question is
will we listen and obey. Will we actually do what He tells us to do?
The danger for many of us is to memorize these words, study them
more in-depth, discuss them with one another, but never actually get
around to doing them. These words, and all that God has said, must
take root in our hearts and result in actual obedience to God. Only then
can we really call others to embrace them and obey what God has said.
Unless His truth pierces our hearts and brings about obedience, we will be
ineective and unfruitful as we call others to Him.

We sometimes make foolish mistakes, even when we

know the wiser way. How does the gospel help us deal with
our foolishness?

Conclusion
We saw at the beginning of this session that wisdom starts with
a relationship with God. We see this even more vividly in the New
Testament when Paul wrote, And because of him you are in Christ Jesus,
who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctication
and redemption (1 Cor. 1:30). In Jesus, we see that wisdom isnt merely
information or insight; wisdom is a Person.
Jesus is Gods wisdom on full display. And this Person did something
that looks like foolishness in the eyes of the worldHe laid down His
life for us. Now, because of His death and resurrection, we can know and
follow this Jesus. We can fear Him. We can put all of our faith in Him. As
we do, He makes us wise people who reect His name and announce His
gospel in the world.

CHRIST CONNECTION: Wisdom is the skill of living faithfully

in Gods world, but all of us have sinned. Wisdom shows us
how to live but cannot save us. For this reason, Jesus became
God-given wisdom for us (1 Cor. 1:30) so that through His death
and resurrection (which appear foolish to the world), we might
be saved according to the wise plan of God.

Session 8 101
 Additional Resources

Wisdom for Gods People

References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry

1. Jay E. Adams, The Christian Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
Counselors Commentary
(Woodruff, SC: Timeless Texts, Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
1997), 2.
blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
2. David K. Stabnow, in HCSB Study
Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010), 1031,
n. 1:2; n. 1:3.
3. Derek Kidner, Proverbs,
Study Material
vol. 17 in Tyndale Old Testament
Commentaries (Downers Grove: - How Do We Interpret Proverbs?Chapter 28 from 40 Questions
IVP, 1964), 57.
4. Ambrose, Six Days of Creation, About Interpreting the Bible by Robert L. Plummer
1.4.12, quoted in Proverbs,
Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, ed. - Reasons to Fear GodArticle by T. M. Moore; nd a link to this
J. Robert Wright, vol. IX in Ancient
Christian Commentary on Scripture: article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Old Testament (Downers Grove:
IVP, 2005), 7. - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including The Fear of the Lord: The
5. Raymond C. Ortlund Jr., Proverbs:
Wisdom and Works, in Preaching Meaning, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at
the Word (Wheaton: Crossway,
2012), 63.
LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
6. Duane A. Garrett, Proverbs
Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, vol. 14
in The New American Commentary
(Nashville: B&H, 1993) [eBook on
Sermon Podcast
WORDsearch].
7. John H. Sammis, Trust and Alistair Begg: The Source of Wisdom
Obey, in Baptist Hymnal (Nashville:
LifeWay Worship, 2008), 500.
8. David K. Stabnow, in HCSB Study Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Bible, 1035, n. 3:11-12.
9. Samuel Rutherford, Letter LI,
in Letters, ed. Thomas Smith
(Edinburgh: Oliphant, Anderson,
and Ferrier, 1881), 132. Tip of the Week
10. Raymond C. Ortlund Jr., in
Gospel Transformation Bible
(Wheaton: Crossway, 2013),
Want Some Teaching Options?
822, n. 22:6.
11. Anthony Selvaggio, A Proverbs Individuals are dierent. Teachers are dierent. Groups are dierent.
Driven Life (Wapwallopen, PA:
Shepherd Press, 2008), 24. What works for one may not work well for another. In recognition
12. Jonathan Leeman, Wisdom,
The Gospel Project: Adult Leader
of this fact, we have a resource that provides group leaders with
Guide (Winter 2012-13): 113. additional teaching options. This resource is available for each session
and includes four or ve interactive teaching options a teacher can
make use of during group time and that point group members to their
personal study guide. You can download this document for free from
GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources.

102 Leader Guide

 SESSION 9

Solomon Builds
the Temple
Summary and Goal

Solomon built a temple for the Lord, and that temple bore Gods name, manifested Gods presence,
and represented Gods glory to the world. As Christians, we belong to the church, described by the
apostles as the temple of God. In the Old Testament, the temple referred to a place. In the New
Testament, the temple refers to a people. We are being built together as Gods residencea beacon of
light and hope to the world.

Main Passages
1 Kings 5:1-5
1 Kings 8:10-14,54-61

Session Outline
1. The temple bears Gods name (1 Kings 5:1-5).
2. The temple hosts Gods presence (1 Kings 8:10-14).
3. The temple is for Gods mission (1 Kings 8:54-61).

Theological Theme
Because of the Holy Spirits presence, Gods people are the temple of God today, the people who bear
His name and join His mission.

Christ Connection
The temple was to be a place where the name of God would be upheld and the presence of God would
be experienced so that the nations would know that the Lord is God. Jesus spoke of Himself as Gods
temple, and in His life, death, and resurrection, He upheld Gods name, embodied Gods presence,
and extended Gods mission.

Missional Application
God calls us to be devoted to Him in obedience so that the original purpose of the temple can be
fullledthe people of the earth will know our God is King.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 103

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Pack Item 8:
The Temple
Display this poster prior to
the group meeting and refer
to it as needed throughout
this session.
Introduction Option
Prior to the group meeting,
enlist a group member who
has visited a world-famous
monument or building
to open the session by
sharing briey about his
or her experience and
reections about that visit,
especially the message
that was being sent by the
monument or building.
Then, if time allows, ask
one or two volunteers to
share their experiences and
the message that was sent.
For Further
Discussion
How does Jesus speaking
of Himself as the temple
distinguish Christianity
from other religions?
What does it say about
Gods initiative and grace
toward humanity?
104 Leader Guide
Session Plan
Solomon Builds
the Temple
Session 9
Introduction
Share the information about Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, to
show how large structures send a message (leader p. 106; PSG p. 83).
List some of the great structures and buildings of history.
What comes to mind when you think of them?
What do these buildings communicate?
Say that many of the greatest leaders and world powers of history have
buildings that bear their name (leader p. 106). Then summarize this session
about Solomons building the temple for the Lord (leader p. 107; PSG p. 84).
1. The temple bears Gods name (1 Kings 5:1-5).
Mention that names are powerful, and then ask a volunteer to read
1 Kings 5:1-5. Give some background on how before the construction of
the temple, Israels God was not associated with any particular place. Note
the rst of two reasons that Solomon built the temple: Through Gods
sovereign work, God gave Solomon rest on every side (leader pp. 107-108;
PSG pp. 84-85).
What ideas and beliefs do you think were communicated to
the Israelites when they visited the temple?
What ideas and beliefs do you think were communicated to
people outside Israel when they saw the temple?
State the second reason that Solomon built the temple was because of Gods
gracious promise to King David that he would. Then comment on how the
temple points to Jesus (leader pp. 108-109; PSG p. 85). Reference Pack Item 3:
Seeing Jesus in the Kingdom as you make this connection between the temple
and Jesus.
What purposes of the temple are fullled by Jesus?
2. The temple hosts Gods presence
(1 Kings 8:10-14). Point 3 Option
Read 1 Kings 8:10-14, and talk about what the event signied Read the Essential
Christian Doctrine
(leader pp. 109-110; PSG p. 86). Use the examples provided in the leader Temple of the Holy Spirit
content to illustrate the larger biblical theme of Gods presence (leader p. 110). (leader p. 112; PSG p. 89).
Ask groups of 2-3 to
discuss the following
When have you sensed the reality of Gods presence? questions (consider writing
What was it about that time that convinced you it was the them on a board or sheet
of paper for groups to have;
Spirit working? also available on the DVD
in TheGospel Project for
Transition to the New Testaments teaching about Jesus and believers as the Adults: Leader Pack):

temple of God. Call attention to how many Christians fail to consider this How should our identity
as the temple of the Holy
reality during worship gatherings (leader pp. 110-111; PSG p. 87). Spirit inform our everyday
lives, including the
mundane moments?
Talk honestly about your attitude toward gathering for
worship on Sundays. What are some things you can Why do we nd it difficult
to remember we are the
do to prepare for worship to make it more meaningful temple of the Holy Spirit,
and edifying? and what can we do to
help us remember?

3. The temple is for Gods mission After a couple of moments,

call for the groups to share
(1 Kings 8:54-61). some of their responses
and reections
Read 1 Kings 8:54-61, introducing how the notion of mission emerges from
the passage. Use Psalm 67; Exodus 19:5-6; and Habakkuk 2:14 to show how
the temple in Israel represented what God wanted to do in the whole earth
(leader pp. 111-112; PSG p. 88).

If we are the temple of God today, then we are to represent

God to the world. What should our identity as Gods temple
communicate to the nations today?
Christ Connection: The
temple was to be a place
Emphasize the urgency of mission for Christians as those who are where the name of God
now the temple of God on the earth, saying that mission begins with would be upheld and the
presence of God would be
ordinary Christians having ordinary conversations with ordinary people experienced so that the
(leader pp. 112-113; PSG p. 89). nations would know that
the Lord is God. Jesus spoke
of Himself as Gods temple,
What is your greatest fear when it comes to living on and in His life, death, and
mission for the gospel? resurrection, He upheld
Gods name, embodied
Gods presence, and
How does Gods heart for the world help you overcome extended Gods mission.
these fears? ........................................................
Missional Application: God
Conclusion calls us to be devoted to
Him in obedience so that
Restate the two great truths of this session: 1) God wants to dwell among His the original purpose of the
people, and 2) God wants to make His name known to the nations temple can be fullledthe
people of the earth will
(leader p. 113; PSG p. 90). Apply the truths of this session with His Mission, know our God is King.
Your Mission (PSG p. 91).

Session 9 105
 Expanded Session Content

Solomon Builds
the Temple
Session 9

Introduction
Voices from Burj Khalifa, located in Dubai, is the tallest building in the world.
the Church The buildings website states: More than just the worlds tallest building,
The church is the temple Burj Khalifa is an unprecedented example of international cooperation,
of the living Godbuilt on symbolic beacon of progress, and an emblem of the new, dynamic and
the foundations of the
prophets and apostles, prosperous Middle East. It is also tangible proof of Dubais growing role
with Jesus Christ as the in a changing world. In fewer than 30 years, this city has transformed
chief cornerstone. 2
itself from a regional centre to a global one. This success was not based
Michael Bird
on oil reserves, but on reserves of human talent, ingenuity and initiative.
Burj Khalifa embodies that vision. 1
As you can tell from this summary, the Burj Khalifa is not just a
building; its a message. Its signicance extends beyond its towering
summit. It is intended to communicate something to the rest of
the world.
History has seen its share of large structurestowers, castles, and
walls. People have been building things since the tower of Babel. If you
want to get the worlds attention, build a large building!

List some of the great structures and buildings of history.

What comes to mind when you think of them?

What do these buildings communicate?

Many of the greatest leaders and the world powers of history have
buildings that bear their name. The same was true in King Solomons day.
The surrounding nations had erected temples for their gods. But Yahweh,
the God of Israel, was no local deity. He is the God of the whole world
(Ex. 9:16). He is the maker and sustainer of the universe, the ruler of all
the nations, and Israel was to represent His name and renown before the
rest of the world.

106 Leader Guide

 Session Summary
In this session, we will learn about Solomon building a temple for
the Lord. Well see the reasons he wanted to build the temple and how
the temple bore Gods name, manifested Gods presence, and represented
Gods glory to the world. As Christians, we belong to the church,
described by the apostles as the temple of God. In the Old Testament,
the temple referred to a place. In the New Testament, the temple refers to a
people. We are being built together as Gods residencea beacon of light
and hope to the world.

1. The temple bears Gods name (1 Kings 5:1-5).

Names are powerful. Mention Adolf Hitler, Steve Jobs, Justin Bieber, Further
Barack Obama, Tiger Woods, or Warren Buet and youre likely to start Commentary
an interesting conversation in the break room of your oce. King This one place of worship
Solomon knew the power of names too. He knew the esteem and honor reinforces the truth that
there is only one God, not
that certain names deserve. This was one of the main reasons he wanted to many, and avoids Israels
build a house for the Lord. temptation to serve other
gods, for many high places
David, Solomons father, was unable to build the house because of may tempt the unwary
constant war during his reign. But the Lord gave Solomon rest on every (Deut. 12:1-9; Judg. 10:6).
The temples architectural
side. The only tting thing to do now was to build a temple to show the features contains both
world the might and power of the God of Israel. Look at what Solomon cosmological and royal
symbols that teach IAMs
says in 1 Kings 5:1-5: absolute sovereignty
over the whole creation
1 and his special headship
Now Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants to Solomon when he over Israel. 3
heard that they had anointed him king in place of his father, for Hiram Bruce Waltke
always loved David. 2 And Solomon sent word to Hiram, 3 You know
that David my father could not build a house for the name of the LORD his
God because of the warfare with which his enemies surrounded him, until
the LORD put them under the soles of his feet. 4 But now the LORD my God
has given me rest on every side. There is neither adversary nor misfortune.
5
And so I intend to build a house for the name of the LORD my God, as the
LORD said to David my father, Your son, whom I will set on your throne
in your place, shall build the house for my name.

Up to this point in redemptive history, Israels God was not associated

with any particular place. He had manifested Himself in visions, in a
burning bush, in a pillar of re, on the mountaintop, in the tabernacle, and
with the ark of the covenant. But until now, there was no established place
where His people could point and say, This is the house of our God.
That all changed with Solomon. It was time to nally build a structure
that would display the glory and renown of the God whose name is
majestic in all the earth (Ps. 8). He wanted that nameYahwehto be
gloried and lifted high for all the nations to see and treasure.

Session 9 107
 What did Solomon intend to communicate to the world and to Israel
Further through the temple? The answer is in verses 4-5: But now the L
Commentary my God has given me rest on every side. There is neither adversary nor
These verses state misfortune. And so I intend to build a house for the name of the L my
several major themes in God, as the L said to David my father, Your son, whom I will set on
biblical theology. (1) God
had given rest to His your throne in your place, shall build the house for my name.
people. Throughout the There are two things we should note in Solomons message to Hiram
Bible this rest is given
in various degrees and about why he was building the temple.
in various ways that
nally culminated in the
eternal rest described in
Gods Sovereign Work
Hebrews 4. (2) It gave a First, God gave Solomon rest on every side. God did this, not
different perspective on
David as a man of war
Solomon. God worked and moved to expand the kingdom of Solomon.
(1 Chron. 28:3), since his At this point, unlike in Davids time, there was rest and peace all around.
wars were presented as
defensive necessities.
God had subdued the enemies of Israel and established them on every side.
(3) Since no temple can The temple was a tangible reminder of what the Lord had done for
contain God, this temple
was to be the dwelling for
the nation He loved. He was the One who brought Israel from Egypt.
the name of the Lord. And He was the One who gave them His law. He was the One who brought
(4) this temple was built in
response to the promise
them through the wilderness into a land owing with milk and honey. He
of a dynasty for David and was the sovereign God who saved and established His people. Solomon
his descendants. 4
responded to this sovereign work by erecting a building worthy of the God
Andrew C. Bowling,
HCSB Study Bible
of heaven.

What ideas and beliefs do you think were communicated to

the Israelites when they visited the temple?

What ideas and beliefs do you think were communicated to

people outside Israel when they saw the temple?

Gods Gracious Promise

The second reason we see that Solomon built the temple was because
God promised King David that he would (v. 5). God comes through on
His promises. Before Solomon was ever born, God declared to David
that He would put his son on the throne and establish his kingdom. This
promise was now coming to fruition in Solomons day.
The temple was not only evidence of Gods work; it was evidence of
Gods keeping His word. We serve a God who keeps His promises. God
does not play games with His people. He does not string us along only to
leave us in the dark. Rather, He is the promise-keeping God who never fails.
In the New Testament, Jesus spoke of Himself as the temple
the embodiment of God. Jesus not only bears Gods name, He is God
(John 1:1). He accomplished all the work that the Father had given Him
to do (John 4:34), and all the promises of God nd their yes in Him
(2 Cor. 1:20). He came to radically redene how Israel understood the
temple and its place among Gods people.

108 Leader Guide

 All that God intended to show with the temple, He would show even
more so with His own Son, who claimed that He was the true temple Further
(John 2:12-25). For this reason, the name of God is no longer localized Commentary
to a placeit is found in a Person! We go to Jesus and see the work and Once the priests leave the
promises of God on full display. ark in the most holy place,
the cloud lls the temple,
thus making their work
What purposes of the temple are fullled by Jesus? impossible. This was the
cloud of Gods glory that
led Israel in the wilderness
2. The temple hosts Gods presence (Ex. 16:10), the cloud that
(1 Kings 8:10-14). lled the tabernacle when
Moses dedicated that
After Solomon completed the temple, he gathered all Israel, along with earlier worship center
the priests, Levites, and leaders, to bring the ark of the covenant to the (Ex. 40:34-35)[T]he
cloud of glory indicates
Lords house (1 Kings 8:1-9). On that day, God displayed His glory among the reality of the Lords
His people. Just imagine standing among the assembly witnessing this presence. This presence
protects (Ex. 14:19-20) and
spectacular display of Gods glory! guides (Ex. 33:9) Israel in
the Exodus stories. Here the
10
glory demonstrates divine
And when the priests came approval of Solomons
out of the Holy Place, a cloud temple. Just as God was
with Moses, so now God is
lled the house of the LORD, with this new generation of
11
so that the priests could Israelites. Such continuity
reaffirms the Lords never-
not stand to minister because changing character, desire
of the cloud, for the glory of to have fellowship with
human beings, and ongoing
the LORD lled the house of commitment to the chosen
the LORD. peopleSolomon responds
12
in awe at Gods decision
Then Solomon said, to descend to the temple.
The LORD has said that he Normally the Lord dwells
in a dark cloud or where
would dwell in thick darkness. human beings cannot see
13
I have indeed built you him. Such is the mystery
of Gods ways (cf. Ps. 18:11;
an exalted house, a place for you to dwell in forever. 14 Then the king 97:2). In this instance,
turned around and blessed all the assembly of Israel, while all the however, the Lord chooses
to descend to earth and
assembly of Israel stood. relate to Israel directly.
As Gray notes, he is the
Creator and at the same
This event validated many things for Solomon and for Israel. It further time the God of Israel who
conrmed and established Solomons kingdom and reign, and it showed has condescended to x his
throne in the midst of his
yet again Gods love and commitment to His people, Israel. Normally, people Israel. Consequently,
God dwelled in thick darkness (v. 12), in a place where no one could see his nearness and readily-
experienced power and
Him. But now, God had come down to be with His people in the place grace never exhaust
built for His name and presence. God was so near and real that day that his revelation (cf. v. 27).
Solomon has been faithful
even the priests had to stop what they were doing! in providing a place for
worship, and the Lord has
been faithful in honoring the
kings commitment. Gods
pledge made in 6:11-13 has
been kept. 5
Paul R. House

Session 9 109

Further
Commentary
When the Babylonians
came and overran Israel
and the temple was
destroyed and they were
carted off into exile, Ezekiel
made a terric prediction
and prophecy. What
he said was, Someday
therell be a nal temple.
Someday therell be a
temple so great, the
prophet said, that the
glory of the Lord will ll the
whole temple. Everybody
in it will experience the
glory of GodWheres
the nal temple? Wheres
the place where you walk
in and its not just that
the glory of God is back
there, but the glory of God
is all around? How can
we nally get back into
the garden? Wheres the
nal temple? Where is it?
Jesus shows up and says,
I am he. I am the ultimate
sacrice; therefore, Im the
ultimate temple. 6
Tim Keller
Voices from
Church History
The perfect church
service would be one we
were almost unaware of;
our attention would have
been on God. 7
C. S. Lewis (1898-1963)
110 Leader Guide
On that day, Israel received the blessing of God Himself. This is the
greatest blessing that God can give to His peopleHimself. In fact, we
see all throughout the Bible that Gods intention has always been to dwell
among His people. We see this theme from the beginning to the end
of Scripture.
God walked with Adam and Eve in the garden before their sin resulted
in banishment from Gods presence (Gen. 13).
God gave Moses intricate details for the tabernacle and the ark in
order to establish His presence among Israel and meet with them
regularly (Ex. 29:42).
When Israel failed in their faithfulness to Gods covenant, the most
severe form of judgment from the Lord was removing Himself from the
temple (Ezek. 10:18).
Gods promise to revisit His people and establish them once again is
fullled in Jesus, who was called Immanuel, which is translated God
is with us (Matt. 1:23).
At the end of history, when all things are set right, we read this promise
from Revelation: The dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell
with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with
them as their God (Rev. 21:3).
The great hope of the Christian life is not getting things from God; it
is getting God. This is a God who wants to be known and who wants us
to sense His presence.
When have you sensed the reality of Gods presence?
What was it about that time that convinced you it was the
Spirit working?
The New Testament teaches that Jesus is the true temple of God and
that as His followers, we also are the temple of God. God dwells in His
people through His Holy Spirit. Consider what Peter said about this: As
you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God
chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up
as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to oer spiritual sacrices
acceptable to God through Jesus Christ (1 Pet. 2:4-5).
According to Peter, we are now priests who oer sacrices to God.
Gods people no longer have to stand outside a temple. God now meets
with us as we gather in His name. The presence of God is manifested
where His people are since the Spirit resides in our hearts.
Unfortunately, many Christians attend worship gatherings every
Sunday and fail to encounter the presence and majesty of God through
singing, prayer, giving, and listening to the Word of God preached.
 In 2007, The Washington Post organized an experiment. During the
morning rush hour, world-famous violinist Joshua Bell stood incognito in Voices from
the entrance to the LEnfant Plaza Metro Station and played a brilliant the Church
classical repertoire for 45 minutes. It was, as Post reporter Gene The foundation of
Weingarten explained, an experiment in context, perception and worship in the heart,
therefore, is not emotional
prioritiesas well as unblinking assessment of public taste. (I feel full of worship or
Joshua Bell routinely lls up concert halls worldwide. Days before, an The atmosphere is so
worshipful). Actually, it is
audience in Boston had paid around $100 a person to see him perform. theological. Worship is not
In LEnfant Plaza, he was playing a Stradivarius made in 1713, reportedly something we work up, it
is something that comes
worth $3.5 million. On that Washington morning, the virtuoso collected down to us, from the
exactly $32.17 from the few passersby who stopped. Most of the 1,000- character of God. 9
plus commuters who hurried through the station that morning didnt even Sinclair Ferguson
slow down. 8 How tragic that no one recognized the greatness that stood
among them!
What is worse, many of us gather for worship and never truly
recognize the greatness of the God we are worshiping. Our hearts are lled Further
with distractions, other duties to get to, and anxiety about the week ahead. Commentary
But if what Peter said is trueand it is!then when we gather with Gods The Blessing of Solomon
is not strictly a blessing but
people, we are engaging in the most climactic event of our week. a prayer for the continuing
close relationship between
God and his people. If taken
Talk honestly about your attitude toward gathering for as a blessing, this is not
worship on Sundays. What are some things you can always an act exclusive to
do to prepare for worship to make it more meaningful priests (v. 14, cf. Num. 6:23).
True prayer rests on Gods
and edifying? promise never to leave
or forsake us (v. 57, so
Deut. 31:6-8; Ps. 94:14;
3. The temple is for Gods mission Heb. 13:5). God does not
(1 Kings 8:54-61). do what men are prone
54 to (cf. Deut. 32:15, not
Now as Solomon nished oering all this prayer and plea to the forsake is taken as heal).
LORD, he arose from before the altar of the LORD, where he had knelt with For God leaving his people
because they abandon
hands outstretched toward heaven. 55 And he stood and blessed all the him see 2 Kings 21:14-15;
assembly of Israel with a loud voice, saying, 56 Blessed be the LORD who Psalm 27:9; Jeremiah 2:13;
5:7, etc. To keep us close
has given rest to his people Israel, according to all that he promised. Not God turns our hearts to
one word has failed of all his good promise, which he spoke by Moses his him (Ps. 119:36) to enable
us to keep his covenant
servant. 57 The LORD our God be with us, as he was with our fathers. May (Deut. 30:6; Ps. 51:10;
he not leave us or forsake us, 58 that he may incline our hearts to him, to Phil. 2:13), i.e. to walk in all
his waysThe purpose of
walk in all his ways and to keep his commandments, his statutes, and his Gods choice of his people
rules, which he commanded our fathers. 59 Let these words of mine, with (v. 60) is that all peoples
of the earth may know
which I have pleaded before the LORD, be near to the LORD our God day that he alone is God (cf.
and night, and may he maintain the cause of his servant and the cause Deut. 4:35; Isa. 45:5). For
this to happen they must
of his people Israel, as each day requires, 60 that all the peoples of the be fully committedi.e. in
earth may know that the LORD is God; there is no other. 61 Let your heart covenant relation (peace)
with the Lord. 10
therefore be wholly true to the LORD our God, walking in his statutes and
Donald J. Wiseman
keeping his commandments, as at this day.

Session 9 111

99 Essential
Christian Doctrines
80. Temple of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit indwells the
church, both individually
and corporately
(1 Cor. 3:16-17; 12:13). As the
temple of the Holy Spirit,
we live our lives differently
than before, bearing the
virtuous fruit that comes
only by the indwelling work
of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23).
This indwelling work of the
Spirit also equips individual
members of the church
with gifts for the work of
the ministry (1 Cor. 12:11).
Voices from
the Church
The mark of the true
church is an expanding
witness to the presence
of God: rst to our
families, then to others
in the church, then to our
neighborhood, then to our
city, then the country, and
ultimately the whole earth.
May God give us grace to
go out into the world as
his extending temple and
spread Gods presence by
reecting it until it nally
lls the entire earth. 11
G. K. Beale
112 Leader Guide
We dont generally associate the nation of Israel with the term mission,
especially when it comes to the temple. But a phrase that we tend to gloss
over in this passage is perhaps the most important thing Solomon prayed
here. He blessed the people and oered a prayer for the nation that all the
peoples of the earth may know that the L is God (v. 60).
This was one reason God chose the nation of Israel. He did not choose
them for their own sake. He chose them for the sake of the nations. He
is a global God who desires all the nations to be glad in Him (see Ps. 67).
They were to be a particular people with a universal purposeto extend
the name and glory of God to the ends of the earth (Ex. 19:5-6).
We see how this plays out in the story of Jonah. God called him to
go to the hated and wicked city of Nineveh. Of course, Jonah rebelled
and went to Tarshish instead before God sent a great sh to lead Jonah to
repentance and back on mission. The book ends with these words from
the Lord: And should not I pity Nineveh, that great city, in which there
are more than 120,000 persons who do not know their right hand from
their left, and also much cattle? (Jonah 4:11).
This last statement was not only an indictment of Jonah; it was a
wake-up call to the nation of Israel. God chose them for the sake of
mission. He elected them for the sake of blessing the entire world. His
choice of Israel did not mean the rejection of other nations but their
inclusion (see Rom. 11:11-32)!
The temple in Israel represented what God wanted to do in the whole
earth. He wanted to spread His name and fame, not only to Israel but
among all the nations so that Habakkuks words might be fullled: For
the earth will be lled with the knowledge of the glory of the L as the
waters cover the sea (Hab. 2:14).
If we are the temple of God today, then we are to represent
God to the world. What should our identity as Gods temple
communicate to the nations today?
The urgency to live on mission is even greater for us as Christians. We
are now the temple of God on the earth. God indwells us and lls us as
His missional people (see Eph. 2:18-22; 1 Pet. 2:4-5). God called us and
chose us for the purpose of representing Him on the earth and spreading
His fame to the nations.
Listen to how Peter wrote about this, But you are a chosen race, a
royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you
may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into
his marvelous light (1 Pet. 2:9). Peter was saying that we are chosen for
a mission. We do not exist for ourselves. We exist for the whole earth to
know the name and renown of Jesus Christ.
 As we think of this great task before us, we must understand that it
starts with ordinary Christians having ordinary conversations with Voices from
ordinary people. It starts with you walking across the street and Church History
befriending your neighbor. It starts by giving up time, money, and Etiquette, nowadays,
comfort for the sake of non-Christians. It starts by taking a risk to ask often demands of a
Christian that he should
your coworker what she thinks about Christianity. It starts with you not intrude his religion on
choosing each day to live your life on mission and being available for company. Away with such
etiquette! It is the etiquette
whatever God wants to do through you. It is virtually impossible to talk of Hell. True courtesy to my
about following Jesus without also talking about how to help others follow fellow mans soul makes
me speak to him if I believe
Him. Following Jesus by necessity means helping others follow Him and that soul to be in danger. 12
obey Him. Charles Spurgeon
As Christians, we are a saved people. But we are also a sent people. We (1834-1892)
are sent into the world to bear Gods name and make Him known to all
people. And one day we will gather around the throne of Jesus Christ and
sing, Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were
slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe
and language and people and nation (Rev. 5:9).

What is your greatest fear when it comes to living on

mission for the gospel?

How does Gods heart for the world help you overcome
these fears?

Conclusion
In this session, we essentially learned two great truths: that God wants
to dwell among His people and that God wants to make His name known
to the nations. As we moved from Solomons day further into redemptive
history, these truths became more and more vivid. God no longer dwells
in particular geographical locations (John 4:21-24). He now dwells among
those who are in Christ. Not only that, He intends to use His people
to spread His name and fame to the nations. We are to make disciples
of all the nations with the condence that our God is always with us
(Matt. 28:19-20). This is what we are called toHis name, His presence,
and His mission. May we be found faithful!

CHRIST CONNECTION: The temple was to be a place where the

name of God would be upheld and the presence of God would
be experienced so that the nations would know that the Lord
is God. Jesus spoke of Himself as Gods temple, and in His life,
death, and resurrection, He upheld Gods name, embodied Gods
presence, and extended Gods mission.

Session 9 113
 Additional Resources

Solomon Builds the Temple

References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry

1. Vision, Burj Khalifa [online], Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
2015 [cited 19 October 2015].
Available from the Internet: Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
www.burjkhalifa.ae.
blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
2. Michael Bird, Evangelical
Theology (Grand Rapids:
Zondervan, 2013), 717.
3. Bruce Waltke, An Old Testament
Study Material
Theology (Grand Rapids:
Zondervan, 2007), 709. - Biblical Images of the ChurchPages 716-18 from Evangelical Theology
4. Andrew C. Bowling, in HCSB
Study Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010), by Michael Bird
555, 557, n. 5:3-5.
5. Paul R. House, 1,2Kings, vol. 8 in - We Are the Temple of the Living GodArticle by Sam Storms; nd a
The New American Commentary
(Nashville: B&H, 1995) [eBook on link to this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
WORDsearch].
6. Timothy J. Keller, Lord of the - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including Solomons Temple,
Whips, in The Timothy Keller can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at
Sermon Archive (New York:
Redeemer Presbyterian Church, LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
2013) [Logos].
7. C. S. Lewis, Letters to Malcolm:
Chiey on Prayer (San Diego:
Harvest, 1964), 4-5, quoted in Sermon Podcast
The perfect church service,
Tolle Lege [online], 14 November
2009 [cited 19 October 2015]. Erwin Lutzer: We are Called to Belong
Available from the Internet:
tollelege.wordpress.com.
8. Gene Weingarten, Pearls Before Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Breakfast: Can one of the nations
great musicians cut through the
fog of a D.C. rush hour? Lets nd
out, The Washington Post [online],
8 April 2007 [cited 19 October
2015]. Available from the Internet:
Tip of the Week
www.washingtonpost.com.
9. Sinclair B. Ferguson, A Heart The Leader/Group Member Relationship
for God (Carlisle, PA: The Banner
of Truth Trust, 1987, reprinted
2008), 110.
The leader/group member relationship is very important to the learning
10. Donald J. Wiseman, 1and environment. Here are some considerations for how to connect with
2Kings, vol. 9 in Tyndale Old
Testament Commentaries your group:
(Downers Grove: IVP, 2008), 133.
11. G. K. Beale, The Temple and the
Respect for Culture. Be aware of and choose to learn from multiple
Churchs Mission (Downers Grove: cultural perspectives represented in your group.
IVP, 2004), 401.
12. Charles Spurgeon, Hezekiah Appropriate Vocabulary. Speak on the level of the group God has
and the AmbassadorsOr,
Vainglory Rebuked, Christ Alone given you.
[online], 5 August 1866 [cited Provide Educational Tools. Dont be condescending, but empower
20 October 2015]. Available from
the Internet: www.christalone.com. group members to discover truth for themselves. Reject sarcasm
13. Rick and Shera Melick, Teaching
That Transforms (Nashville: B&H, and humiliation.
2010), 187-93.
Trust and Love. Without these, it becomes impossible to teach, much
less learn. This requires humility to seek forgiveness when youve made a
mistake and loving confrontation when you have been wronged. 13

114 Leader Guide

 SESSION 10

The Foolishness of
a Once-Wise King
Summary and Goal

Near the end of Solomons reign, he put foolishness on display. Solomons story is a reminder that all of
us are capable of derailing our walk with God by making foolish choices. It is also a reminder our only
hope is in the true King whose wisdom and righteousness are perfectJesus Christ. As believers, we
repent of our foolishness, rely on God for wisdom and salvation, and then call others to trust in Him.

Main Passages
1 Kings 11:1-13
Luke 11:31; 1 Corinthians 1:30

Session Outline
1. Foolish choices compromise our full devotion to God (1 Kings 11:1-8).
2. Foolish choices create problems for other people (1 Kings 11:9-13).
3. Even the wisest of kings needs a greater Wisdom (Luke 11:31; 1 Cor. 1:30).

Theological Theme
Foolishness is the failure to give God glory in every area of life.

Christ Connection
Solomon was a king whose reign was marked by prosperity and peace. Unfortunately, at the end of his
reign, Solomons sinful compromise led to the division of the kingdom. During His earthly ministry,
Jesus spoke of Himself when He claimed something greater than Solomon is here (Luke 11:31).
Whereas sinful choices divided Solomons kingdom, Christs righteous submission to God established
a new unity for Gods people.

Missional Application
God calls us to proclaim the foolishness of relying on our own wisdom for salvation and to lift up
Jesus as the only hope.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 115

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Introduction Option
Prior to the group meeting,
post two large sheets of
paper with these headings:
Qualities of a Wise Leader
and Qualities of a Foolish
Leader. As group members
arrive, ask them to
contribute some responses
to each sheet.
As you summarize the
session, and throughout
the session, call attention
to some of the qualities of a
foolish leader as they apply
to Solomons choices. And
show how our expectations
of a wise leader point to
Jesus Christ. Follow up the
summary by reading the
Voices from the Church
quote by D. A. Carson
(leader p. 118; PSG p. 92).
For Further
Discussion
Why is idolatry bad for us?
Why are people wrong to
perceive God as narcissistic
because of His demand for
exclusive worship?
116 Leader Guide
Session Plan
The Foolishness of
a Once-Wise King
Session 10
Introduction
Share the scene from The Lord of the Rings and connect it with our longing for
a good, wise, and gracious king (leader p. 118; PSG p. 92). Mention how
Solomon was an example of both a wise king and a foolish king (leader p. 118).
When have you been disappointed by a godly leader
who did something foolish? How did you handle
your disappointment?
Summarize the session, saying that Solomon is a reminder that all of us are
capable of making foolish choices as well as a reminder that our only hope is
in the truly wise KingJesus Christ (leader p. 119; PSG p. 93).
1. Foolish choices compromise our full devotion
to God (1 Kings 11:1-8).
Discuss how Gods promise to Abraham looked as if it were coming true during
the height of Solomons reign (leader p. 119). Then read 1 Kings 11:1-8. Speak of
the idolatrous nature of Solomons foolish choices, highlighting how his idolatry
began with disregard for Gods instructions (leader pp. 119-120; PSG pp. 93-94).
What are some unpopular commands in Scripture that
church members are likely to disregard?
How do our material possessions affect our spiritual state?
Explain also that idolatry creates division in our hearts since something else
functions in the place of God (leader pp. 120-121; PSG p. 94).
What are some signs that a person has a divided heart?
How can you tell if your heart is devoted to the Lord or
divided by other pursuits?
State that idolatry leads to destruction unless we repent and seek the
Lord. Israel suered as a nation because of Solomons derailed kingship
(leader p. 121; PSG p. 95).
2. Foolish choices create problems for other
people (1 Kings 11:9-13). Point 2 Option
Note that our foolish choices create problems for others (leader p. 121). Ask a Before the group meeting,
enlist a volunteer to speak
volunteer to read 1 Kings 11:9-13, and then point to how Solomons son about an occasion or
reaped the consequences of his idolatry (leader p. 122; PSG pp. 95-96). season of life in which
his or her foolish choices
affected others in a
What is the relationship between foolishness and selsh signicant and negative
decisions? Why is selshness foolish? way. Ask the person to
discuss how idolatry was a
factor in the poor decision-
Emphasize how our personal decisions have public consequences, citing making. Make sure the
person is comfortable with
the example from The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (leader p. 122). Connect disclosing this information
this idea with Pauls teaching in 1 Corinthians 5:6-7 (leader pp. 122-123; about himself or herself.
Conclude this option by
PSG p. 96). connecting the testimony
with the gospel and Gods
How have you been positively impacted by someone elses restorative grace.
wise choices?

How have you been negatively impacted by someone elses

foolish choices? For Further
Discussion
3. Even the wisest of kings needs a greater Why is wisdom pivotal for
our gospel mission?
Wisdom (Luke 11:31; 1 Cor. 1:30).
How can the wisdom of
Explain that Solomon gives us reason to be both disheartened and Jesus speak to some of the
encouraged since he is not the true King (leader p. 123). Read Luke 11:31, most common hopes and
and point out how Jesus has a kind of wisdom that even Solomon needed. fears that you hear about
from non-Christians?
Then read 1 Corinthians 1:30. State that Jesus is the wisdom that saves,
which means doing good deeds and sharing tips cannot be substitutes for
sharing the gospel (leader pp. 123-124; PSG pp. 97-98).
Christ Connection: Solomon
was a king whose reign was
How can we serve and support unbelievers when the marked by prosperity and
wisdom of this world lets them down? peace. Unfortunately, at the
end of his reign, Solomons
sinful compromise led to
Also note that we must be ready to serve others when the wisdom of this world the division of the kingdom.
fails them. We should listen carefully to non-Christians to discern what they During His earthly ministry,
Jesus spoke of Himself when
most hope for or what they most fear (leader pp. 124-125; PSG pp. 98-99). He claimed something
greater than Solomon is
here (Luke 11:31). Whereas
What are some reasons we avoid talking about Jesus with sinful choices divided
non-Christians as they struggle with hope or fear? Solomons kingdom, Christs
righteous submission to God
established a new unity for
Conclusion Gods people.
Recap that even the greatest heroes of the Bible, like Solomon, can choose ........................................................
foolishness over wisdom but that their failures should stir us up to hope more Missional Application:
in Jesusour King (leader p. 125; PSG p. 99). Apply the truths of this session God calls us to proclaim
the foolishness of relying
with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 100). on our own wisdom for
salvation and to lift up
Jesus as the only hope.

Session 10 117

Voices from
the Church
We need a kingone who
is perfectly righteous, who
cannot be corrupted, who
is entirely good, in whom
there is never any taint of
evil. He powerfully saves
and transforms his people,
who come to him and
gladly acknowledge his
Lordship. Hail, King Jesus. 2
D. A. Carson
118 Leader Guide
Expanded Session Content
The Foolishness of
a Once-Wise King
Session 10
Introduction
One of the most compelling scenes in J. R. R. Tolkiens masterpiece
The Lord of the Rings is when Aragorn, the true king, is nally crowned
and takes his rightful place on the throne: Then Frodo came forward
and took the crown from Faramir and bore it to Gandalf; and Aragorn
knelt, and Gandalf set the White Crown upon his head, and said: Now
come the days of the King, and may they be blessed while the thrones of
the Valar endure! But when Aragorn arose all that beheld him gazed in
silence, for it seemed to them that he was revealed to them now for the
rst time. Tall as the sea-kings of old, he stood above all that were near;
ancient of days he seemed and yet in the ower of manhood; and wisdom
sat upon his brow, and strength and healing were in his hands, and a light
was about him. And then Faramir cried: Behold the King! 1
Its a scene that stirs the emotions. Even though most of us have never
been ruled by an earthly king, something within us resonates with this
picture. Could it be that deep down we long for a king? Not just any king,
to be sure, but a good, wise, and gracious king. One who will rule and
reign with justice and righteousness. One who will set all things right.
One who will be a refuge and strong support.
As we read the Bible, we nd that this longing is actually rooted in
truth. The true King exists, and He is coming back to set all things right!
Unfortunately, history has proven that we too often embrace the wrong
king. And even good kings can go bad.
When Israel rst demanded a king like the other nations, God was
displeased with their request. But His displeasure was not that they
wanted a king; its that they wanted the wrong king and they sought to
be like the other nations. Even though God conceded to their desire, He
warned them about living under kings whose hearts turned them away
from following Him.
Perhaps the saddest of these examples is King Solomon. At one time
he ruled in wisdom and justice. But as we will see today, Solomons life
and reign spiraled out of control as he turned from the God who called
him and established him as king. Earlier we looked at him as an example
of wisdom, but now we look to him as an example of foolishness.
 When have you been disappointed by a godly leader
who did something foolish? How did you handle
your disappointment?

Session Summary
In todays session, we look at the foolishness on display near the
end of Solomons reign. Solomons story is a reminder that all of us are
capable of derailing our walk with God by making foolish choices. It is
also a reminder that our only hope is in the true King whose wisdom and
righteousness are perfectJesus Christ. As believers, we repent of our
foolishness, rely on God for wisdom and salvation, and then call others to
trust in Him.

1. Foolish choices compromise our full devotion

to God (1 Kings 11:1-8). Further
First Kings 10 describes Solomons great wisdom and his great wealth. Commentary
It describes the Queen of Sheba as mesmerized by the depth of his insight, David had also married
foreign wives, but they
and it gives us in great detail a list of his possessions. Gods promise to did not change either his
Abraham looked as if it were coming true: Gods people had been rescued, religious life or that of the
nation. Solomons wives,
they were living in the land God promised them, they had a good and wise on the other hand, were
king, and other nations were being blessed by Solomons wisdom. known devotees of their
national deitiesThese
If Solomons story stopped there, we would be applauding him as the religious compromises
greatest king in Israel. We might even be wondering if he was (at last!) were likely seen as
politically expedient acts
the long-awaited king whose sons would rule over Gods people in Gods of courtesy to Solomons
promised land forever. But unfortunately the story goes on to reveal foreign wives, comparable
to extraterritorial privileges
Solomons compromise and downfall. that allow embassies
in our time to conduct
1
Now King Solomon loved many foreign women, along with the themselves according to
the laws and customs
daughter of Pharaoh: Moabite, Ammonite, Edomite, Sidonian, and Hittite of their native land, but
women, 2 from the nations concerning which the LORD had said to the these common-sense
principles conicted with
people of Israel, You shall not enter into marriage with them, neither shall faith in God and Gods
they with you, for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods. covenant with Israel. Both
Ashtoreth (Astarte, Ishtar)
Solomon clung to these in love. 3 He had 700 wives, who were princesses, and Milcom (Molech)
and 300 concubines. And his wives turned away his heart. 4 For when were international deities
worshiped under numerous
Solomon was old his wives turned away his heart after other gods, and his names in different
heart was not wholly true to the LORD his God, as was the heart of David countries. Chemosh, by
contrast, was a god of
his father. 5 For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, Moab, probably a god
and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 6 So Solomon of war. 3

did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and did not wholly follow the Andrew C. Bowling,
HCSB Study Bible
LORD, as David his father had done. 7 Then Solomon built a high place for
Chemosh the abomination of Moab, and for Molech the abomination of
the Ammonites, on the mountain east of Jerusalem. 8 And so he did for all
his foreign wives, who made oerings and sacriced to their gods.

Session 10 119

Voices from
Church History
In a word, so many
objects as there are in
the world, wherein men
seek happiness instead of
seeking it in God, so many
idols they set up in their
hearts, so many species of
idolatry they practise. 4
John Wesley (1703-1791)
Further
Commentary
Two Hebrew verbs in
1 Kings 11:1-3 accentuate
Solomons sin. First
Kings 11:1 says Solomon
loved many foreign
women. The Hebrew word
translated loved in 11:1 is
aheb, the same word that
described Solomons love commands about how kings were to conduct themselves. They were
for God in 1 Kings 3:3, thus
accentuating Solomons
move away from being
faithful to God. Giving
further emphasis to
Solomons transfer of
devotion to his wives,
1 Kings 11:2 says, Solomon
was deeply attached to
these women and loved
them. The Hebrew word for
deeply attached is dabaq,
which means to cleave or
to cling. Deuteronomy 11:22
uses both aheb and dabaq
to urge Israelites to love
(aheb) and remain faithful
(dabaq) to the Lord. The
writer of 1 Kings was
accentuating the fact that
Solomons having foreign
wives entailed a transfer
of rightful allegiance
from God to tolerance
if not acceptance of a
pagan worldview. 5
Alan Branch,
BiblicalIllustrator
120 Leader Guide
What we see here is one of the most illustrative pictures of idolatry in
the Bible. Idolatry and foolishness go hand in hand. If wisdom means to
fear the Lord rst and foremost, then foolishness is to place something
above the Lord. Foolish choices always accompany idolatry.
In Solomons case, there is no outright rejection of God. He wasnt
setting God aside; he was adding other gods around the Lord. He wasnt
disregarding the Lord altogether; he was partially regarding the Lord. He
chose to follow Yahweh alongside other gods.
Remember Joshuas black-and-white challenge to Israel? And if it is
evil in your eyes to serve the L, choose this day whom you will serve,
whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or
the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my
house, we will serve the L (Josh. 24:15). For Joshua, it was all or
nothing. Youre either with God or youre not.
How did Solomon get here? How did these idolatrous attitudes take
root in his heart?
Idolatry starts with a disregard.
First, it began with a disregard for Gods specic instructions.
Before God brought Israel to the promised land, He gave them specic
not to gather much gold and horses for themselves, and they were not
to acquire many wives (Deut. 17:14-20). If they did, their hearts would
go astray.
We see this eshed out in Solomons life. He acquired much wealth,
vast amounts of horses and chariots, and he had 1,000 women in his
court. The result? His heart was led astray.
This is how idolatry starts, with a disregard for Gods law. In our
foolishness we turn away from the Creator and choose instead to worship
created things (Rom. 1:18-23). We shun the fountain of true joy and
stubbornly build our own dirty wells to drink from (Jer. 2:13).
What are some unpopular commands in Scripture that
church members are likely to disregard?
How do our material possessions affect our spiritual state?
Idolatry creates division.
The second observation about idolatry is that it creates division. The
psalmist prayed, Unite my heart to fear your name (Ps. 86:11). He knew
that he could not worship and fear the Lord appropriately unless God had
his undivided aections.
 Idolatry creates division in our hearts. Something else functions in
the place of God. Some other person or experience or pursuit grabs our 99 Essential
attention and thoughts. God is slowly pushed away from the center of Christian Doctrines
our lives. 38. Sin as Selshness
Idols demand our attention and aection. For example, if you When we sin, we are acting
out of a selsh attitude and
make your career your idol, it will demand all your time and energy. mind-set that assumes
Youll overwork, cut corners, miss out on family time, and neglect our action will lead us
to more happiness than
time in Christian community. What is happening? Your idol has if we were to obey God.
you by the throat and is choking out your devotion to God. Idolatry Because sin is manifested
in our tendency to be
creates division. curved inward toward
self, it is the opposite of
What are some signs that a person has a divided heart? love. Love looks outwardly
to place others before
oneself, operating from the
How can you tell if your heart is devoted to the Lord or mind-set that others are
divided by other pursuits? more important (Phil. 2:3).
Where sin selshly seeks
personal gratication and
Idolatry leads to destruction. happiness, love works
for the joy of others in the
When the apostle Paul talked about the enemies of the cross, he said, hopes of making others
Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their happy in God.
shame, with minds set on earthly things (Phil. 3:19). This is idolatry
language. When something else has our focus and our passion, our end is
destruction unless we repent and seek the Lord.
We know that Solomon derailed his kingship and fell under the
Lords judgment through his idolatry. God gave him up to his desires,
and Israel suered as a nation. Idolatry always leaves us fruitless and
frustrated and can lead to our downfall. Thats what we see as our
story continues.

2. Foolish choices create problems for other

people (1 Kings 11:9-13).
Our choices impact those around us, often more than we know.
A man who walks in integrity while on a business trip is forging the kind
of character that will impact how he relates to his wife, his children, and
his friends. They will be impacted in a positive way by his refusal to sin
in secret.
On the other hand, when we make foolish choices, we inevitably
create problems for those around us. Solomons son reaped the
consequences of his idolatry; so did the nation of Israel, which saw a
divided monarchy for the rst time in its history. Lets read about the
Lords response to the folly Solomon allowed in his life.

Session 10 121

Further
Commentary
The Old Testament
history is open about the
failures of its great men
(one sign of veracity)
and gives clear warnings
of the consequences of
disobedience to God.
The divine requirements
have been made fully
known both in writing and
oral teaching (the law,
e.g. Ex. 20:1-17; 34:28), and
reiterated by prophets
and other means such
as theophanies (v. 9).
Failure to obey God
(walk in my ways) justly
results in Gods anger. His
consequent judgment is
(a) prophetic, Since this
is your attitude (heart,
NRSV mind), I will ;
(b) thorough, tear the
kingdom away (emphatic);
(c) follows warnings
(vv. 12-15; 1 Sam. 15:28);
(d) deferred in mercy,
Notduring your lifetime
(v. 12, cf. 2 Kings 20:19);
and (e) mitigated for the
sake of the godly David,
who had unswervingly
kept the covenant
(2 Sam. 7:11-16, cf. Abraham,
Gen. 18:19). Note that one
tribe will survive (v. 13,
cf. 2 Kings 17:18), Judah
now being merged with
Benjamin. Solomons
failure does not annul the
divine promise to maintain
the surviving remnant. The
fate of the Davidic dynasty,
Jerusalem and the temple
are always closely linked. 7
Donald J. Wiseman
122 Leader Guide
9
And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart had
turned away from the LORD, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him
twice 10 and had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should
not go after other gods. But he did not keep what the LORD commanded.
11
Therefore the LORD said to Solomon, Since this has been your
practice and you have not kept my covenant and my statutes that I have
commanded you, I will surely tear the kingdom from you and will give it to
your servant. 12 Yet for the sake of David your father I will not do it in your
days, but I will tear it out of the hand of your son. 13 However, I will not
tear away all the kingdom, but I will give one tribe to your son, for the sake
of David my servant and for the sake of Jerusalem that I have chosen.
These words must have hit Solomon like a freight train. Not only would
Solomon suer (1 Kings 11:14-40), but his son would have the kingdom
torn from his hands. His idolatry led Israel into a downward spiral that
would eventually result in their exile into Babylon years later. This is what
happens when we allow foolishness to lead us into idolatry. We may think
we are only hurting ourselves, but we are inevitably hurting those around us.
What is the relationship between foolishness and selsh
decisions? Why is selshness foolish?
Near the end of The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, C. S. Lewis
explained the nature of kingship when King Caspian announces that he
will abandon his ship, forsake his crown, and sail on to the end of the
world in search of adventure. Reepicheep makes it clear to Caspian that
he cannot do as he wishes. He says, You are the King of Narnia. You
break faith with all of your subjects and especially with Trumpkin, if
you do not return. You shall not please yourself with adventures as if you
were a private person. And if your Majesty will not hear reason it will be
the truest loyalty of every man on board to follow me in disarming and
binding you till you come to your senses. 6 One wonders if Lewis had
Solomon in mind when he wrote these words.
Sadly, Solomon had no one to help him come to his senses. In fact, he
did choose to live like he were a private person.
The reality is we are not private people. Our walk with the Lord is
personal, no doubt, but it is not private. We may make decisions in private,
but our decisions have public consequences.
In 1 Corinthians 5, the apostle Paul addressed a deviant case of
immorality of which the entire church seemed to be proud! Listen to his
words to them: Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little
leaven leavens the whole lump? Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be
a new lump, as you really are unleavened (1 Cor. 5:6-7).
 Do you see what Paul was saying? The sin of one individual was
permeating the entire church. All of them were being impacted by the Voices from
foolish decisions of one person. Choosing to walk in foolishness will the Church
impact those around you. When I refuse to put sin
to death, when I refuse
How have you been positively impacted by someone elses to grow, when I choose
to sin, I effectively take
wise choices? action against the people
I claim to love. Here we
How have you been negatively impacted by someone elses acknowledge that the
Lord has placed us in
foolish choices? communities so closely
tied together that the sin of
one affects all. 8
3. Even the wisest of kings needs a greater
Tim Challies
Wisdom (Luke 11:31; 1 Cor. 1:30).
When we look at the life of Solomon, we have reason to be both
disheartened and encouraged. We are disheartened that he compromised
his devotion to God and derailed his kingship. But we should also be Further
encouraged because we know that the story does not end there. Solomon Commentary
is not our king. He is not the true king. We are only to glance at Solomon The Queen of the South.
and then turn our gaze on the true King. That is, the Queen of
Sheba (1 Kings 10:1-13;
We started this session by discussing our longing for a king, but not 2 Chron. 9:1-12). Will rise.
just any kingone who would rule in truth and faithfulness. Solomon This is a reference to the
general resurrection of the
wasnt enough. We need a greater king than Solomon. As we come to the dead at the nal judgment.
New Testament, that is what we nd. Lets fast forward to the Gospel of Jesus (and Luke) clearly
sided with the Pharisees
Luke, where Jesus speaks of Himself as greater than Solomon. against the Sadducees
on this important
11:31 doctrine (Luke 20:27-40;
The queen of the South will rise up at the judgment with the men Acts 23:6-10). At the
of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the judgment. This refers to the
judgment (note the article),
earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than i.e., the nal judgment,
Solomon is here. which was associated with
the resurrection of the
dead (Rev. 20:11-15)One
Solomon in all his greatness wasnt great enough. There was greater than Solomon is
something coming after Solomon that was even greater. There is a kind here. Literally something
greater than Solomon. The
of wisdom that Jesus has that even Solomon needed. Jesus wisdom not use of something instead
only shows us how to live, His wisdom is what gives us life! Jesus is the of someone indicates that
the comparison was more
wisdom we need. This is what Paul had in mind when he addressed than just between Solomon
the Corinthians: and Jesus but between
Solomon and his wisdom
and Jesus and his wisdom.
1:30
And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom Jesus is the ultimate wise
man, and his wisdom has
from God, righteousness and sanctication and redemption, no equal. 9
Robert A. Stein
Jesus, through His life, death, and resurrection, is the wisdom that
saves. Ultimate wisdom is found only in Jesus.

Session 10 123
 As we engage others with the gospel, we must keep two things in
Further mind. First, we ought to be pointing people to Jesus as the source of
Commentary all wisdom.
The three nouns Donald Whitney tells the story of a man who became a Christian
righteousness, holiness, during an evangelistic emphasis in a city in the Pacic Northwest:
and redemption explicate
Gods wisdom. Although
all four qualities both When [the man] told his boss about it, his employer responded with,
characterize Christ and
are imparted by Christ, the
Thats great! I am a Christian and have been praying for you for
emphasis is on the fact years! But the new believer was crestfallen. Why didnt you ever
that believers have them by
virtue of being in union with
tell me you were a Christian? You were the very reason I have not
ChristInstead, all three been interested in the gospel all these years. How can that be? the
offer different perspectives
on the wisdom of God,
boss wondered. I have done my very best to live the Christian life
which is salvation in Christ, around you. Thats the point, explained the employee. You lived
drawing on different
metaphors. Righteousness
such a model life without telling me that it was Christ who made the
recalls the law court and dierence, I convinced myself that if you could live such a good and
speaks of vindication
and acquittal, holiness
happy life without Christ, then I could too. 10
brings to mind the temple
and being set apart for Our good deeds adorn the gospel, but good deeds are no substitute for
God, and redemption
evokes the slave market sharing the gospel. The world needs a greater wisdomwisdom that saves.
and emancipation on They dont just need tips on how to have a better marriage or manage their
the analogy of Israels
deliverance in the exodus. money. They need Jesus, and thats why as Christians, we ought to talk
David Fords denition of about Him. We should labor to show that even the wisest and strongest
wisdom properly locates
its meaning across both among us are nothing without Jesus (John 15:5). We cannot talk about
what we traditionally call Him too much. We cannot lift Him up too highly in the eyes of the
theology and what we
term ethics: wisdom asks world. He is our greater wisdom.
not only about meaning,
interpretation and truth but
also, inextricably, about How can we serve and support unbelievers when the
living life before God now wisdom of this world lets them down?
and about how lives and
communities are shaped
in line with who God is and Second, we must be ready to serve others when the wisdom of this
with Gods purposes for the world fails them. Proverbs reminds us, Hope deferred makes the heart
future. In short, it is about
lived meaning directed sick (Prov. 13:12). In other words, our joy rises and falls with things we
towards the kingdom look to for hope and security. If we place our hope in physical tness and
of God. This is a good
denition of what Paul we gain a few pounds or incur an injury, our joy shrinks a bit.
is aiming at throughout Knowing this truth will make us more eective when sharing the
1 Corinthians. 11
gospel. All people put their hope in something, and if that hope is in
Roy E. Ciampa
and Brian S. Rosner anything except Jesus Christ, it is going to fail.
Solomon dazzled the world with his wisdom, riches, and power, yet
look at how things ended. He failed. Earthly kings and rulers and powers
will always fail us. We must not look to them. We must look to Jesus
Christ. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8). He will
never leave us or forsake us. His love is constant. His grace is limitless. His
mercies are new every day. This is our message to the world.

124 Leader Guide

 As you engage non-Christians, listen carefully to discern what they
most hope for or what they most fear. Listen as they tell their story of Voices from
failed expectations and delayed hope. Then consider creative ways to show the Church
how Jesus will never fail them in that area. As Christians, we pledge
For example, if they seem to put their hope in work and their career, allegiance to Jesus as King.
We believe that Jesus,
show how Jesus is the greatest master to work for. He alone is worthy of all the Messiah of Israel who
our creative energy and productivity. Perhaps they live for the approval of was crucied for our sins,
has been raised from the
their father. Show how Jesus has done everything they need to receive the dead and is now Lord of
favor and love of His Father. This is what it means to lift up Jesus as the the universe. This means
that we are to put our
ultimate wisdom and hope of the world. There is no area of life where He trust in his sacrice and
is not wiser, more glorious, and more beautiful. live submissively under
his lordship. 12

What are some reasons we avoid talking about Jesus with Trevin Wax
non-Christians as they struggle with hope or fear?

Conclusion
In this session, weve seen that even the greatest heroes of the Bible can Voices from
choose foolishness over wisdom. In seeing their failures, we are stirred up Church History
Learn much of the Lord
to hope even more in Jesus, our King. We have much to learn from men Jesus. For every look at
like Solomon. But beyond all the wise proverbs and sayings that he has yourself, take ten looks
at Christ. He is altogether
given us, perhaps the biggest lesson we take away from him is that we need lovely. Such innite
Jesus more than weve ever imagined. majesty, and yet such
meekness and grace, and
all for sinners, even the
chief! Live much in the
CHRIST CONNECTION: Solomon was a king whose reign was smiles of God. Bask in his
marked by prosperity and peace. Unfortunately, at the end of beams. Feel his all-seeing
his reign, Solomons sinful compromise led to the division of eye settled on you in
love, and repose in his
the kingdom. During His earthly ministry, Jesus spoke of Himself
almighty arms. 13
when He claimed something greater than Solomon is here
Robert Murray MCheyne
(Luke 11:31). Whereas sinful choices divided Solomons kingdom, (1813-1843)
Christs righteous submission to God established a new unity for
Gods people.

Session 10 125
 Additional Resources

The Foolishness of
a Once-Wise King
References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry
1. J. R. R. Tolkien, The Return of Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
the King (New York: Ballantine,
1983), 274. Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
2. D. A. Carson, The God Who blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
Is There (Grand Rapids: Baker,
2010), 83.
3. Andrew C. Bowling, in HCSB
Study Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010),
Study Material
571, n. 11:1-2; n. 11:4-8.
4. John Wesley, Sermon LXXXIII: - The God Who Is Unfathomably WiseChapter 6 from The God Who
On Spiritual Idolatry, vol. 2 in
The Works of the Reverend John Is There by D. A. Carson
Wesley, ed. John Emory (New York:
B. Waugh and T. Mason, 1835), 188. - Solomon Is Not the OneArticle by Jonathan Parnell; nd a link to
5. Alan Branch, Solomons Foreign
Wives & Their Gods, Biblical this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
Illustrator (Winter 2010-11): 35.
6. C. S. Lewis, The Voyage of - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including Solomons Foreign Wives and
the Dawn Treader (New York: Their Gods, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at
HarperCollins, 1980), 261.
7. Donald J. Wiseman, 1and 2Kings, LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
vol. 9 in Tyndale Old Testament
Commentaries (Downers Grove:
IVP, 2008), 146-47.
8. Tim Challies, Against Yous, Yous Sermon Podcast
Only Have I Sinned, Challies.com
[online], 7 February 2013 [cited 19
October 2015]. Available from the
Kent Hughes: Belief and Unbelief
Internet: www.challies.com.
9. Robert A. Stein, Luke, vol. 24 in
The New American Commentary Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
(Nashville: B&H, 2003) [eBook on
WORDsearch].
10. Donald S. Whitney, Spiritual
Disciplines for the Christian Life,
(Colorado Springs: NavPress, Tip of the Week
2014), 133.
11. Roy E. Ciampa and Brian S.
Rosner, The First Letter to the
Hospitality
Corinthians, in The Pillar New
Testament Commentary (Grand Whether group meetings are in your home, in public, or in a church
Rapids: Eerdmans, 2010), 109-10.
12. Trevin Wax, Holy Subversion
setting, your actions along three lines of hospitality will set the tone for
(Wheaton: Crossway, 2010), 33. your group:
13. Andrew A. Bonar, Memoirs and
Remains of the Rev. Robert Murray The Role of Chores in Hospitality. The chores of preparation for a
MCheyne (London: W. Middleton,
1846), 254. group meeting should be approached with an attitude of service and
14. Adapted from Field Guide for
Small Group Leaders, by Sam
self-sacrice.
ONeal (Downers Grove: IVP, The Role of Prayer in Hospitality. Make it a point to pray for group
2012), 38-53.
members everyday in order to prepare the way spiritually for the Holy
Spirit to work in their lives and yours.
The Necessary Element of Fun. Including an element of fun in your group
meetingswhether at the beginning, at the end, or duringwill help
create an atmosphere that blesses others and leads to spiritual growth. 14

126 Leader Guide

 SESSION 11

Solomon Reects on
the Meaning of Life
Summary and Goal

Solomon asked some intense questions in the Book of Ecclesiastes, and these questions nd their
resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Knowing that God exists, we can experience a life
of meaning, justice, and purpose, and we call others to seek answers to their questions by looking
to Christ.

Main Passages
Ecclesiastes 1:1-11
Ecclesiastes 3:164:3
Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Session Outline
1. Does life have meaning? (Eccl. 1:1-11)
2. Is there justice and goodness in this world? (Eccl. 3:164:3)
3. What are we on earth for? (Eccl. 12:9-14)

Theological Theme
Because God exists, life has meaning and purpose.

Christ Connection
Ecclesiastes raises questions about life that can be answered only in Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul
declared that apart from the resurrection of Jesus, our faith is meaningless and there is no forgiveness
of sins (1 Cor. 15:17). But because the resurrection is true, our life has purpose.

Missional Application
God calls us to discover the questions people in our culture are asking and then to answer those
questions with the gospel.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 127

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

For Further
Discussion
What are some reasons the
Book of Ecclesiastes might
be a less-than-familiar
book for Christians?
What does it say about our
God that He would inspire
the Book of Ecclesiastes
and preserve it for us in
the Bible?
For Further
Discussion
Why might people evade
asking deeper questions them o. Highlight verses 3-4 and the impermanence that Solomon saw in
about life, such as those
found in Ecclesiastes?
How might considering
these reasons help us
show love, grace, and
compassion as we seek
to share the gospel
with others?
Point 1 Option
Read the Voices from the
Church quote by William
Lane Craig (leader p. 133;
PSG p. 104), and ask the
following questions:
Why is it necessary for
God to exist in order for
life to have meaning?
How is this truth useful
for us in apologetics
and evangelism?
128 Leader Guide
Session Plan
Solomon Reects on
the Meaning of Life
Session 11
Introduction
Highlight the uniqueness of Ecclesiastes (see Pack Item 7: Wisdom Literature).
Use the life questions given to survey its content (leader p. 130; PSG p. 101).
Take a moment to discuss the words of Tom Brady (see
Voices from the Culture [leader p. 130; PSG p. 101]). How
would you respond to a friend or neighbor who expressed a
similar sentiment?
Summarize the session, saying that we should ask some of the same questions
that Solomon did and understand that the resolution to them is found in the
person and work of Jesus Christ (leader p. 131; PSG p. 102).
1. Does life have meaning? (Eccl. 1:1-11)
Read Ecclesiastes 1:1-11. Remind the group that the Holy Spirit inspired
these words to be in the Bible, and so we do not have the option of writing
the world (leader pp. 131-132; PSG pp. 102-103).
What are some examples of the eeting and temporary
nature of this life?
Comment on verses 5-7 and the general monotony of life, that there appears
to be no true productivity in the world (leader p. 132; PSG p. 103).
When have you felt like you were involved in work that was
continual but unproductive? What were the circumstances?
Note the lack of progress that Solomon observed in verses 8-11 since nothing
ever truly satises us. Explain that Solomon painted a picture of what reality is
like if we push God out of our lives (leader p. 133; PSG p. 104).
What are some signs that we have succumbed to a
pessimistic view of life?
How does faith in Christ help us through these
trying moments?
2. Is there justice and goodness in this world?
(Eccl. 3:164:3) For Further
Read Ecclesiastes 3:164:3, which deals with the problem of evil and suering. Discussion
Acknowledge that we all long for peace and restoration. Explain that Solomon How are Gods absolute
justice and promised
seemed to nd comfort in the idea of God as judge, but because of the judgment a source of
resurrection, we can nd more comfort (leader p. 134; PSG p. 105). comfort for the suffering?
Why is justice necessary for
What kinds of injustice or suffering in the world are most our actions to matter?
likely to get your attention?

What kinds of injustice or suffering are you most likely

to ignore? Point 3 Option
Ask groups of 3-4 to read
the Essential Christian
Use the excerpt from The Jesus Storybook Bible to show how we as Christians Doctrine General Revelation
are to answer Solomons question about justice and goodness (leader p. 135). (leader p. 137; PSG p. 107)
Encourage group members with 1 Peter 5:10-11 (leader p. 135; PSG p. 106). and to discuss what this
doctrine means for us as
we share the gospel with
How does faith in Christs promise to make all things new others. After a couple of
give us strength to ght injustice or relieve suffering today? moments, call for groups
to share their reections
and responses.
3. What are we on earth for? (Eccl. 12:9-14)
Ask a volunteer to read Ecclesiastes 12:9-14. Speak of the many dierent
philosophies and perspectives on life, stressing that unless they conclude that
we were made for God and His commands, they are wrong. Cite
Romans 1:22-23 to show that all people possess knowledge of God but
suppress the truth (leader p. 136; PSG pp. 106-107).

What are some different answers the world gives to the

question What are we on earth for?

Talk about how Christians have a tremendous opportunity to oer hope to Christ Connection:
our world because we know why we are here. Further explain that we dont Ecclesiastes raises
questions about life that
simply oer ideas to the world but a PersonKing Jesus (leader p. 137; can be answered only in
PSG p. 108). Show from Colossians 2:8-10 that ultimate meaning and Jesus Christ. The apostle
purpose are found only in Christ (leader p. 137). Paul declared that apart
from the resurrection
of Jesus, our faith is
What are some unique ways Jesus provides a better meaningless and there
answer than the world to lifes deepest questions? is no forgiveness of sins
(1 Cor. 15:17). But because
the resurrection is true, our
Conclusion life has purpose.

Restate that the Bible doesnt shy away from hard questions, which shows us the ........................................................
uniqueness of Christianity and the glory of Jesus (leader p. 137; PSG p. 108). Missional Application: God
calls us to discover the
Apply the truths of this session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 109). questions people in our
culture are asking and then
to answer those questions
Pass out cards from Pack Item 9: Restless for You to help group members recall with the gospel.
the meaning of life, for both for ourselves and unbelievers who need Jesus.

Session 11 129

Voices from the Culture
Why do I have three Super
Bowl rings, and still think
theres something greater
out there for me? I mean,
maybe a lot of people
would say, Hey man, this is
what is. I reached my goal,
my dream, my life. Me,
I thinkits gotta be more
than this. I mean this cant
be what its all cracked up
to be. I mean Ive done it.
Im 27. And what else is
there for me? 1
Tom Brady, New England
Patriots quarterback
Voices from
Church History
You are matchless,
O Lord. So our praise of
You must rise above our
humanityYou awaken in
us a delight at praising You.
You made us for Yourself,
and our heart is restless
until it nds its place
in You. 2
Augustine (354-430)
130 Leader Guide
Expanded Session Content
Solomon Reects on
the Meaning of Life
Session 11
Introduction
Ecclesiastes. Of all the books in the Bible, this one is perhaps the
most unique. We might even say that although Ecclesiastes is listed 21st in
our Bibles, this book should be the rst one we read. Before we get into
Genesis or Romans or the Psalms, perhaps we should spend some time
reading the words of Solomon in this great and mysterious book.
Why is Ecclesiastes so important? Because it poses the questions that
the rest of the Bible answers. It leads us to grapple with meaning, purpose,
and value. It confronts us with questions we may never have thought to
ask, but should:
Does life have any meaning?
Why are we here?
Does what we do really matter?
Is history going anywhere?
Is there any justice in the world?
Is there anything beyond the grave?
Why do things seem random and purposeless at times?
Will anything satisfy the ache and longing at the deepest level of our hearts?
These questions (and more) come rushing at us as we thumb through
the pages of Ecclesiastes. In this book, Solomon reected on all the things
he had seen under the sun, a phrase that occurs 32 times in the book. And
its that phrase that oers us a clue into the books meaning. Solomons
goal was to show us the futility of life under the sunif this life is all
there is. If we look for worth and value in pleasure, wealth, possessions,
fame, wisdom, power, or success, we will wander in futility all the days of
our lives.
Look up from your Bible and into our world and youll see millions of
people living out the reality of Ecclesiastes. We see a world that has never
been more connected, more entertained, or more comforted and yet never
more isolated, more bored, and more depressed.
Take a moment to discuss the words of Tom Brady (see
Voices from the Culture). How would you respond to a
friend or neighbor who expressed a similar sentiment?
 Session Summary
In this session, we are going to align ourselves with Solomon and ask some
of the same questions he asked. As we pose these questions together, we should
look for their resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Knowing that
God exists, we can experience a life of meaning, justice, and purpose, and we
call others to seek answers to their questions by looking to Christ.

1. Does life have meaning? (Eccl. 1:1-11)

The opening verses of Ecclesiastes introduce us to the question Does Further
life have meaning? Solomon began by lamenting the fact that when he Commentary
looked out at the world, it all appeared to be meaningless and futile: C. S. Lewis captured the
grim reality of living as if
1 this world is all there is:
The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem. The universe is a universe
2
Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, of nonsense, but since
you are here, grab what
vanity of vanities! All is vanity. you can. Unfortunately,
3
What does man gain by all the toil however, there is, on these
terms, so very little left to
at which he toils under the sun? grabonly the coarsest
4
A generation goes, and a generation comes, sensual pleasures. You
cant except in the lowest
but the earth remains forever. animal sense, be in love
5
The sun rises, and the sun goes down, with a girl if you know (and
keep on remembering)
and hastens to the place where it rises. that all the beauties both
6
The wind blows to the south of her person and of her
character are a momentary
and goes around to the north; and accidental pattern
around and around goes the wind, produced by the collision
of atoms, and that your
and on its circuits the wind returns. own response to them
7
All streams run to the sea, is only a sort of psychic
phosphorescence arising
but the sea is not full; from the behaviour of your
to the place where the streams ow, genes. You cant go on
getting any very serious
there they ow again. pleasure from music if
8
All things are full of weariness; you know and remember
that its air of signicance
a man cannot utter it; is pure illusion, that
the eye is not satised with seeing, you like it only because
your nervous system is
nor the ear lled with hearing. irrationally conditioned to
9
What has been is what will be, like it. You may still, in the
lowest sense, have a good
and what has been done is what will be done, time; but just in so far as it
and there is nothing new under the sun. becomes very good, just in
10 so far as it ever threatens
Is there a thing of which it is said, to push you on from cold
See, this is new? sensuality into real warmth
and enthusiasm and joy, so
It has been already far you will be forced to feel
in the ages before us. the hopeless disharmony
11 between your own
There is no remembrance of former things, emotions and the universe
nor will there be any remembrance in which you really live. 3
of later things yet to be
among those who come after.

Session 11 131

Further
Commentary
Hevel [vanity, futility]
may originate in the sound
of breath (Isa. 57:13). It
may have produced a
verb (haval) that occurs
ve times, once used
as keep up empty talk
(Job 27:12). Haval denotes
become worthless
(Jer. 2:5) or place false
hope (Ps. 62:10). The
causative means make
worthless (Jer. 23:16).
Breath as transient and
apparently insignicant
underlies all metaphorical
uses of hevel. It can indicate
vapor (Ps. 39:5) or mist
(Prov. 21:6), but the idea
of little worth is always
present. Hevel connotes
fraud (Prov. 13:11). It
signies empty (Job 27:12),
worthless (Jer. 10:3),
meaningless (Ps. 94:11),
futile (Job 21:34), eeting
(Prov. 31:30), or in vain
(Zech. 10:2). It describes
man (Ps. 62:9). This key
word in Ecclesiastes
suggests futility except
at Ecclesiastes 9:9.
Absolute futility is
literally futility of futilities
(Eccl. 1:2). The plural often
denotes worthless idols
(Deut. 32:21) since context
claries what the hevel is. 4
Duane A. Garrett,
HCSB Study Bible
132 Leader Guide
Talk about an introduction! If Solomon planned to get our attention,
hes done it. What are we to do with these words? We could immediately
write them o as some pessimistic, glass-half-empty view of the world. But
the Holy Spirit inspired these words to be in the Bible. We dont have the
option of writing them o. So lets look at the world the way Solomon did
for a few moments and nd out what he meant here. When he looked out
at the world, he saw three main things that led him to the conclusion that
life is futile.
There appears to be no permanence (vv. 3-4).
First, Solomon saw no permanence in the world. Nothing seems
to last. We get up and work a job for 30 or 40 years, and then we die.
Generations come and go, but the world seems to take no notice of them.
Most human beings seem to make no lasting impact on the world; as
soon as one generation thinks they have things gured out, they grow old
and die.
Life is like an endless treadmill that one generation runs on for a
while before getting replaced by another. Ideas and innovations come
and go, but nothing appears to last. Achievements and advancements
happen, but is the world really any better? Solomons answer was a
resounding no!
What are some examples of the eeting and temporary
nature of this life?
There appears to be no productivity (vv. 5-7).
The next thing Solomon mentioned was the sun, the wind, and the
streams and how they seem to produce no results. The sun rises and sets
day after day. The wind blows on an endless cycle. The streams ow into
the same place over and over and over. What do they have to show for
this? Nothing. There is no productivity to anything.
Solomon later applied this to our daily lives. Think about your day.
We sleep in our bed, then make it up, and repeat the process. Our hair
grows, we cut it, and it grows back. Our clothes get dirty, and we wash
themonly to get them dirty again!
Monotony is everywhere. There are so many areas of life that achieve
no real results and produce virtually nothing of any importance. Is there
any end result to all of this? Again, Solomons answer was no.
When have you felt like you were involved in work that was
continual but unproductive? What were the circumstances?
 There appears to be no progress (vv. 8-11).
Nothing is new under the sun. The eyes and ears never seem to be Voices from
satised. Every new invention or gadget that comes down the pike never the Church
really satises us. Sure, they may entertain us for a little while, but they What is true of the
do not change the monotony and the impermanence of the things universe and of the human
race is also true of us as
previously mentioned. Generations still come and go. The sun continues individualsIf God does
to rise and set. The latest product that people stand in line for will do not exist, then you are just
a miscarriage of nature,
nothing to alter the world as it is. Therefore, it is all futile, according thrust into a purposeless
to Solomon. universe to live a
purposeless life. 5
When we consider this perspective on the world, we must conclude
William Lane Craig
that Solomon was spot oninsofar as God is left out of the picture.
Remember, he was showing us a picture of life without God. There is no
reference here to loving, obeying, and treasuring God. When He is not the
center of our lives, we must conclude that all of life is futile. All that you
do, all that you achieve, and all that you gain in this life is nothing unless
God is the greatest reality of your life.
The picture Solomon painted here is realityif we push God out
of our lives. But when God is at the center of our lives as our King and
treasure, all of life is lled with meaning and purpose. All that we do
matters. If Jesus is who He said He was and if He truly is raised from the
dead and reigning over all things, then everything we do matters. This
is what the apostle Paul meant when he wrote, Therefore, my beloved
brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the
Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain (1 Cor. 15:58).
Without Him, everything we do is in vain. With Him, everything we do
has meaning and value and purpose.

What are some signs that we have succumbed to a

pessimistic view of life?

How does faith in Christ help us through these

trying moments?

2. Is there justice and goodness in this world?

(Eccl. 3:164:3)
As we move further into the Book of Ecclesiastes, the second question
that we see Solomon grappling with is the issue of justice in the world. As
he looked out and observed, he saw more injustice than justice, more pain
than prosperity.

Session 11 133

Further
Commentary
The text makes four
assertions: (1) God desires
people to see that they
are in some sense like
animals; (2) people and
animals share the same
fate in that both return to
the dust; (3) nobody knows
if the spirit of a human rises
at death while that of an
animal descends to the
earth; and (4) we ought
to enjoy the life we have.
While these verses may
appear to be a categorical
denial of afterlife, such
an interpretation would
miss the mark. Once again
Ecclesiastes asserts that
humans are mortal; it is in
that sense that they are like
the animalsEcclesiastes
does not deny afterlife
but does force the reader
to take death seriously. In
this the book echoes the
psalmists prayer that he
be taught to number his
days (Ps. 90:10-12). It is not
the biblical believer who
denies the power of death
but the unbeliever. Since
humans are truly mortal,
two conclusions follow.
First, neither possessions
nor accomplishments are
eternal, and we should
properly use and enjoy
them while we still see
the light of day. Second,
because we are by nature
dependent and contingent,
our hope of eternal life
must be founded in
God and not ourselves
(Eccl. 12:7,13-14). For the
Christian this means that
immortality is in the risen
Christ (1 Cor. 15:12-19). 6
Duane A. Garrett
134 Leader Guide
16
Moreover, I saw under the sun that in the place of justice, even
there was wickedness, and in the place of righteousness, even there was
wickedness. 17 I said in my heart, God will judge the righteous and the
wicked, for there is a time for every matter and for every work. 18 I said in
my heart with regard to the children of man that God is testing them that
they may see that they themselves are but beasts. 19 For what happens to the
children of man and what happens to the beasts is the same; as one dies, so
dies the other. They all have the same breath, and man has no advantage
over the beasts, for all is vanity. 20 All go to one place. All are from the
dust, and to dust all return. 21 Who knows whether the spirit of man goes
upward and the spirit of the beast goes down into the earth? 22 So I saw
that there is nothing better than that a man should rejoice in his work, for
that is his lot. Who can bring him to see what will be after him?
4:1
Again I saw all the oppressions that are done under the sun. And
behold, the tears of the oppressed, and they had no one to comfort them!
On the side of their oppressors there was power, and there was no one
to comfort them. 2 And I thought the dead who are already dead more
fortunate than the living who are still alive. 3 But better than both is he
who has not yet been and has not seen the evil deeds that are done under
the sun.
The struggle we see here is one that we all encounter. Theologians and
philosophers refer to this as the problem of evil and suering. Each of us
has to face the fact that the world is not as it should be. The curse of sin
has now fractured and ruptured what God made good, rhythmic, and
beautiful. The result is pain, poverty, suering, oppression, and death.
Solomon saw this and observed that it is better to be dead, and better still
not even to exist!
All of us long for things to be set right, for things to be put back in
their proper place. We lament, with Solomon, that when we search for
righteousness, we often nd wickedness in its place. We long for peace,
for restoration, and our only hope is that God will bring everything
into judgment (v. 17).
Solomon seemed to nd some comfort with this idea of God as judge.
But we can nd even more comfort because we know what Solomon did
not know. We know that because God raised Jesus from the dead, He will
raise us. And not only us, but the whole of creation will be renewed and
redeemed. He will wipe away every tear. He will set all things right. He
will make all things new. He will make a new heaven and a new earth. He
will put an end to sin, Satan, and death.
 What kinds of injustice or suffering in the world are most
likely to get your attention?
Voices from
What kinds of injustice or suffering are you most likely
the Church
to ignore? What creation needs is
neither abandonment
nor evolution but rather
Sally Lloyd-Jones paints a beautiful picture at the end of The Jesus redemption and renewal;
and this is both promised
Storybook Bible. She paraphrases the end of the Book of Revelation and guaranteed by the
this way: resurrection of Jesus from
the dead. This is what the
whole worlds waiting for. 8
One day, John knew, Heaven would come down and mend Gods N. T. Wright
broken world and make it our true, perfect home once again. And
he knew, in some mysterious way that would be hard to explain, that
everything was going to be more wonderful for once having been so Voices from the Culture
sad. And he knew then that the ending of The Story was going to be When, in the resulting
so great, it would make all the sadness and tears and everything seem chaos, men see
themselves as otsam
like just a shadow that is chased away by the morning sun. Im on my without recognizable
way, said Jesus. Ill be there soon! 7 obligations or hopes of
due reward, then justice
becomes a chimera. 9
This is our answer to Solomons question about justice and goodness!
Honor Matthews
We need not despair or lose hope. Our God will act on our behalf. He will
bring about the glory of His righteousness and justice. In the meantime,
we are to hold to the words of Peter: And after you have suered a little
while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in
Christ, will himself restore, conrm, strengthen, and establish you. To
him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen (1 Pet. 5:10-11). All
dominion and power ultimately belong to God, and in His time He will
bring about the perfection and peace for which we all long. Let us wait
with patience and endurance for our God to act.

How does faith in Christs promise to make all things new

give us strength to ght injustice or relieve suffering today?

3. What are we on earth for? (Eccl. 12:9-14)

Of all the questions that we are prompted to ask as we read the Book
of Ecclesiastes, this one is the most importantWhat are we on earth
for? Solomon concluded his book by warning us of all the other voices
well hear in the world, but only One matters.

Session 11 135

Further
Commentary
The Preachers message
is summarized in two
points which concern
the greatness of God
and the Word of God.
The Hebrew emphasizes
the words God and
commands. The fear of
God is the realization of
his unchanging power and
justice (3:14). It delivers
from wickedness and
self-righteousness (7:18)
and leads to a hatred of
sin (5:6f.; 8:12ff). If it is the
beginning of wisdom
(Ps. 111:10; Prov. 1:7;9:10)
it also is the end, the
conclusion; no progress
in the believers life
leaves it behind. Nor is
the testimony of the New
Testament any different
(cf. 2 Cor. 7:1). The reader
is urged to keep his
commandments. The
order of the two points
(fearkeep) is signicant.
Conduct derives from
worship. A knowledge of
God leads to obedience;
not vice versa. This is the
only place in Ecclesiastes
where the commands
of God are mentioned.
The body of the book
has simply placed two
alternative views of life
over against each other
and the life of faith has
been commended. Now
in the epilogue, almost as
an aside, it is pointed out
that such a life will have
implications. It must not
be restricted to the Mosaic
law. It refers to all that is
known to be Gods will. The
last phrase reads literally:
For this is the whole of
the man. Elsewhere in
Ecclesiastes, however,
the whole of the man is
a Hebrew idiom for every
man (cf. 3:13; 5:19). The
sense, therefore, is This
applies to everyone. 11
Michael A. Eaton
136 Leader Guide
9
Besides being wise, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge,
weighing and studying and arranging many proverbs with great care.
10
The Preacher sought to nd words of delight, and uprightly he wrote
words of truth.
11
The words of the wise are like goads, and like nails rmly xed are
the collected sayings; they are given by one Shepherd. 12 My son, beware of
anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much
study is a weariness of the esh.
13
The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his
commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God will bring
every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.
What are we on earth for? Attempts to answer this question are at
every turn. This text reminds us that countless opinions are oered up
regarding this issue (v. 12). Think of all the dierent philosophies and
perspectives on life and why we are here. Talk shows, magazines, blogs,
and websites bombard us with advice and counsel on how to live. But
unless they conclude that we were made for God and His commands, they
are wrong and should be rejected. Deep down, every human knows that
they were made for God.
Consider the words of atheist philosopher Bertrand Russell:
The centre of me is always and eternally a terrible paina curious
wild paina searching for something beyond what the world
contains, something transgured and innitethe beatic vision
GodI do not nd it, I do not think it is to be foundbut the love
of it is my lifeits like passionate love for a ghost. At times it lls me
with rage, at times with wild despair, it is the source of gentleness and
cruelty and work, it lls every passion that I haveit is the actual
spring of life within me. 10
Amazing! Even a man who refused to acknowledge Gods existence
felt this overwhelming longing to know and enjoy God. Why is that?
Romans 1 reminds us that all people possess knowledge of God. The
problem is not that we lack truth and knowledge; we suppress truth. Paul
wrote, For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or
give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their
foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and
exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal
man and birds and animals and creeping things (Rom. 1:22-23). This is a
grim commentary on humanity. God made us to know Him and walk in
His ways, but instead, we shun Him and create our own path to joy and
meaning. We essentially know why we are here, but we refuse to act on
that truth.
 What are some different answers the world gives to the
question What are we on earth for? 99 Essential
Christian Doctrines
As Christians, we have a tremendous opportunity to oer hope to our 1. General Revelation
world. We know why we are here! We know why we were put on this General revelation refers
earth. We know the path to ultimate meaning and purpose. We have a to God revealing Himself
through His creation (Ps. 19)
living Savior who came to give us abundant life and overowing joy and through the human
(John 10:10; 15:11). conscience (Rom. 2).
Knowledge about God
We dont simply oer the world ideas, information, or a philosophy. through general revelation
We oer the world a Person, a Person who died and rose again. We oer is limited because it only
communicates general
living hope, living water, and living bread in a reigning King named Jesus. knowledge about God
Pauls Letter to the Colossians reminds us not to look to anything and His character. We
can look at the vastness
besides Christ for ultimate meaning and purpose: See to it that no and ne-tuning of the
one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to universe and recognize
that God is all-powerful
human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and and wise, or look inward
not according to Christ. For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells to our innate sense of
right and wrong and know
bodily, and you have been lled in him, who is the head of all rule and there is a moral lawgiver
authority (Col. 2:8-10). Only in Christ does the fullness of God dwell. in the universe. General
revelation is not sufficient
Only in Christ do all other idols and so-called gods lose their power and for understanding how
appeal. Only in Christ do we discover why we are here. We discover that to know God or be saved,
but it provides enough
what weve been searching for in pleasure, approval, power, and comfort is knowledge about God for
actually found in Him. He is better and He is enough. us to be held accountable
for suppressing Gods
Jesus really is better. He speaks a better word. He tells a better story. truth in unrighteousness
He oers a better answer to why we are here. Let us give our lives to (Rom. 12).
helping the world know and trust this God who made us for Himself and
who alone provides the answer to why we are here!

What are some unique ways Jesus provides a better Voices from
answer than the world to lifes deepest questions? the Church
The knowledge and
Conclusion wisdom that we nd in
Christ, and in Christ alone,
In this session, we saw that the Bible doesnt shy away from hard are not to be treated
casually or ippantly or
questions. God wants us to grapple with issues of meaning, purpose, and presumptuously. The light
justice in the world. And when we do, well see that these questions help us of the knowledge of the
glory of God as revealed
see the uniqueness of Christianity and the glory of Jesus Christ our Savior. in the face of Jesus Christ
This, in turn, makes us even more conversant with the culture around us (2 Cor. 4:4-6) is a treasure
of innite worth and value.
as we seek to oer answers to the deepest questions people are asking. Let Ponder it deeply. Pray for
us boldly but winsomely oer the world the hope it so desperately needs. it daily. Plunder its riches.
Protect it from delement.
Penetrate its mysteries.
Prize it above all earthly
CHRIST CONNECTION: Ecclesiastes raises questions about wealth, all human wisdom,
life that can be answered only in Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul all eshly gain. 12
declared that apart from the resurrection of Jesus, our faith is Sam Storms
meaningless and there is no forgiveness of sins (1 Cor. 15:17). But
because the resurrection is true, our life has purpose.

Session 11 137
 Additional Resources

Solomon Reects on
the Meaning of Life
References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry
1. Daniel Schorn, Transcript: Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
Tom Brady, Part 3, CBS News
[online], 5 November 2005 [cited Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
20 October 2015]. Available from
the Internet: www.cbsnews.com.
blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
2. Augustine, The Confessions of St.
Augustine: Modern English Version
(New York: Revell, 2005), 15-16. Study Material
3. C. S. Lewis, Present Concerns
(London: Harcourt Inc., 2002), 76. - EcclesiastesChapter 18 from How to Read the Bible Through the
4. Duane A. Garrett, in HCSB Study
Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010), Jesus Lens by Michael Williams
1088, sidebar.
5. William Lane Craig, Reasonable - How I Learned to Live JoyfullyArticle by J. I. Packer; nd a link to
Faith (Wheaton: Crossway,
2008), 76-77. this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
6. Duane A. Garrett, Proverbs
Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, vol. 14 - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including Ecclesiastes in a Positive
in The New American Commentary Light, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at
(Nashville: B&H, 1993) [eBook on
WORDsearch]. LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
7. Sally Lloyd-Jones, The Jesus
Storybook Bible (Grand Rapids:
Zondervan, 2007), 348.
8. N. T. Wright, Surprised by Hope Sermon Podcast
(San Francisco: HarperCollins,
2008), 107.
9. Honor Matthews, The Primal
William Lane Craig: Facing Life Without God
Curse: The Myth of Cain and Abel in
the Theatre, quoted in The Cruelty
of Heresy, by C. FitzSimons Allison Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
(New York: Morehouse, 1994), 15.
10. Bertrand Russell, quoted in The
Philosopher: Their Lives and the
Nature of Their Thought, by Ben-
Ami Scharfstein (New York: Oxford Tip of the Week
University Press, 1980), 312.
11. Michael A. Eaton, Ecclesiastes,
vol. 18 in Tyndale Old Testament
Respect for Other Cultures
Commentaries (Downers Grove:
IVP, 2009), 176-77. Increasingly, our communities are becoming multicultural, and hopefully
12. Sam Storms, The Hope of Glory:
100 Daily Meditations on Colossians
this will be reected in our churches and groups as a testimony to the
(Wheaton: Crossway, 2007), 154. unifying power of the gospel. As teachers, we must respect diversity,
13. Leroy Gainey, Excels in
Multicultural Community, in discover new ways to help all people groups nd their worth in Christ, and
Sunday School That Really Excels,
ed. Steve R. Parr (Grand Rapids: bring all believers together in one spirit, faith, and common confession. 13
Kregel, 2013), 146.

138 Leader Guide

 SESSION 12

Job and the

Dilemma of Suffering
Summary and Goal

The story of Job confronts us with the question Why do good people suer? And the story oers us
insight into right and wrong ways to pursue the answer to this question. The suering of Job points us
forward to the ultimate answer to the problem of evilthe redemptive suering of Jesus Christ and
the promise of a world made new. And as Jesus followers, we seek to alleviate suering as we walk
alongside others.

Main Passages
Job 1:6-12,20-22
Job 16:1-5,18-22
Job 40:1-5; 42:7-9

Session Outline
1. Jobs dilemma: Why do good people suer? (Job 1:6-12,20-22)
2. Job responds to his friends wrong answers (Job 16:1-5,18-22).
3. God responds to Job and his friends (Job 40:1-5; 42:7-9).

Theological Theme
God does not give us the answer to why we go through suering, but He does give us Himself.

Christ Connection
In his time of suering, Job yearned for a mediatorsomeone to stand between him and God. Jesus is
the mediator who suered, even though He had never sinned, in order to pay the price for human sin
and to put an end to suering on earth.

Missional Application
God calls us to comfort people going through a time of suering, not by answering every question but
by assuring them of Gods great love.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 139

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Introduction Option
Prior to the group meeting,
enlist a group member to
share about an experience
of suffering and his or her
response, either toward
God or away from God.
Encourage the volunteer
to be honest about the
struggle. Make it clear up
front to everyone that your
group should be a safe
place for acknowledging
our struggles so we can
love and support one
another in them with the
love of Christ.
If this type of honesty is not
yet characteristic of your
group, perhaps you as the
leader should share your
own experience of suffering
and response rst, in order
to model what this should
look like for the family
of God.
For Further
Discussion
How is maligning Gods
character in response
to horrid circumstances
prideful or presumptive,
particularly in light of what
Job 1:6-12 reveals?
How does Jobs response
to his circumstances in
1:20-22, and again in 2:10,
model humility as well as
wisdom for us?
140 Leader Guide
Session Plan
Job and the
Dilemma of Suffering
Session 12
Introduction
Begin by noting the inescapable nature of human suering. Introduce the
story of Job as Old Testament wisdom literature that speaks to how we are to
respond to suering (see Pack Item 7: Wisdom Literature) (leader p. 142;
PSG p. 110). Share the Eugene Peterson excerpt from the leader content about
the importance of considering the bigger picture (leader p. 142).
When have you asked questions about the trials in your
life? Do you think its wrong for a Christian to ask these
kinds of questions? Why or why not?
Summarize the session on suering in the life of Job, noting that the book
points us to the ultimate answer to the problem of evilthe redemptive
suering of Jesus Christ (leader p. 143; PSG p. 111).
1. Jobs dilemma: Why do good people suffer?
(Job 1:6-12,20-22)
Read Job 1:6-12, summarize how Job lost everything, and then read
verses 20-22 (leader pp. 143-144; PSG p. 111).
Based on Jobs response in 1:20-22, how would you describe
Jobs character?
Explain that Jobs story is an example of extremely bad things happening to
a righteous man. Stress that the story does not tell us why good people suer
but that it does oer us some direction. Elaborate on the three things to keep
in mind about Jobs suering (leader pp. 144-145; PSG pp. 112-113):
Job did not suffer because God was angry with him.
Job did not suffer because he had sinned.
Job suffered in order to reveal his faith.
Think back to a season of suffering in your own life. Did
God use that suffering to lead you into a different kind of
relationship with Him? How so?
Why might suffering be an effective means of spiritual
growth (see Jas. 1:2-4)?
2. Job responds to his friends wrong answers
(Job 16:1-5,18-22). Point 3 Option
Set the context for Job 16:1-5,18-22, and then ask a volunteer to read the Read the Essential
Christian Doctrine
passages. Comment on how the story shows the need for good friends to The Problem of Evil
surround us during our suering, not ones like Jobs miserable comforters (leader p. 149; PSG p. 117),
and ask groups of
(leader pp. 145-146; PSG pp. 113-114). 3-4 to discuss the
following questions
What are some overused clichs or phrases that Christians (consider writing them
on a board or sheet of
tend to use during times of suffering? paper for groups to have;
also available on the DVD
Why should we avoid being quick to give easy answers? in TheGospel Project for
Adults: Leader Pack):
How does the story of Job
Highlight the passages from Proverbs pertaining to friendship. (Consider give insight regarding the
printing these verses out and giving them to a few group members as they arrive problem of evil?
so they can read them when called upon [available on the DVD in The Gospel How do Jesus death
on the cross and His
Project of Adults: Leader Pack].) Unpack the two things we need to do in second coming shape
order to have good friends: 1) be a true friend, and 2) look to the true Friend, our understanding of the
problem of evil?
Jesus Christ (leader p. 147; PSG pp. 114-115).
After a few moments,
encourage groups to
What are some ways your friends have encouraged you share their responses
during your suffering? and reections.

3. God responds to Job and his friends

(Job 40:1-5; 42:7-9).
Read Job 40:1-5 and 42:7-9. Explain how Job received an even grander vision For Further
of Gods power and goodness through his suering (leader p. 148;
Discussion
What do you think Job
PSG pp. 115-116). thought about his experience
in looking back on it?
Why might a greater understanding of the power and
character of God be what all of us in pain really need?

Christ Connection: In his

Observe two important truths we learn about God from Job: 1) God is God time of suffering, Job
and we are not and 2) God comes near in our suffering (leader pp. 148-149; yearned for a mediator
someone to stand between
PSG pp. 116-117). him and God. Jesus is the
mediator who suffered,
In what ways have you been reminded that God is God and even though He had never
sinned, in order to pay the
you are not? price for human sin and
to put an end to suffering
How has God come near to you during your suffering? on earth.
........................................................
Conclusion Missional Application: God
calls us to comfort people
Call attention to both the diculty and beauty of Jobs story, noting how it points going through a time of
us to Jesus suering (leader p. 149; PSG p. 117). Call attention to Pack Item 3: suffering, not by answering
every question but by
Seeing Jesus in the Kingdom when making the connection between Jobs request assuring them of Gods
for a mediator and Jesus role as the one mediator between God and man. great love.
Apply the truths of this session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 118).

Session 12 141

Voices from
Church History
The picture of God in the
Bible is of One who suffers,
and when the mask is torn
off life and we see all its
profound and vast misery,
the suffering, sorrowing
God is the only One who
does not mock us. 2
Oswald Chambers
(1874-1917)
142 Leader Guide
Expanded Session Content
Job and the
Dilemma of Suffering
Session 12
Introduction
To live is to suer. The question is not if we will suer but how we will
respond to suering when it happens. Will we suer toward God (allow
our suering to drive us to Him), or will we suer away from God (allow
our suering to hinder our relationship with Him)?
In the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, we nd the story of
Jobthe classic story on pain and suering. Even many people unfamiliar
with the Bible know the basics of Jobs story, how everything was taken
from him and how he remained devoted to God. The New Testament lifts
up Job as one of our examples of patience and endurance (Jas. 5:10-11).
Job suered toward God and found that suering gave him a greater
understanding of God and His ways.
Eugene Peterson tells a story that illustrates this truth:
A friend showed me a series of pictures he had taken. The subject
matter consisted exclusively of household items found in an ordinary
kitchen: a matchstick, a pin, the edge of a knife. Household utensils
are not ordinarily thought of as possessing much beauty, but all
these photographs of very ordinary objects were quite astonishingly
beautiful. The beauty was suddenly visible because the photographs
had all been made through a magnifying lens. Small, ugly,
insignicant items were blown up to great size, and we could see what
we had overlooked in our everyday routine. And it turned out that
what we had overlooked was careful, planned details that produced
exquisite beauty. 1
That last phrase is so important. When our lives are comfortable
and easy, we dont tend to think deeply about God. But when suering
comes, we zoom in on God. What we discover is that God is working
our suering for good and bringing about exquisite beauty and glory from
even our deepest pain (Rom. 8:18,28). We discover, like Job, that God is
even greater than we thought, and His goodness is even deeper than we
ever dared to dream.
 When have you asked questions about the trials in your
life? Do you think its wrong for a Christian to ask these
kinds of questions? Why or why not?
Further
Commentary
The heavenly setting
Session Summary indicates that the sons
In this session, we will look at the dilemma of suering in the life of God are angels (2:1;
cp. Ps. 29:1; 103:20).
of Job. The story of Job confronts us with the question Why do good Satan (the Accuser;
people suer? And the story oers us insight into right and wrong ways to cp. Zech. 3:1-2) also came
to the heavenly council. He
pursue the answer to this question. The suering of Job points us forward always opposes the work
to the ultimate answer to the problem of evilthe redemptive suering of of the Lord (Matt. 16:23;
Rev. 12:9) but is limited
Jesus Christ and the promise of a world made new. And as Jesus followers, in his power (Job 1:12;
we seek to alleviate suering as we walk alongside others. 2:6). LORD translates
the Hebrew name of the
covenant God of Israel
1. Jobs dilemma: Why do good people suffer? (Yahweh). The Lords
questions suggest that
(Job 1:6-12,20-22) Satan came to the
The Book of Job begins with a bizarre scene. The Lord and Satan are meeting uninvited but
do not indicate that
having a conversation, and the Lord brings up Job as a model of God was ignorant of
uprightness and integrity. Lets read how the story begins. Satans activities. Gods
omniscience is attested
throughout the Scriptures
6
Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present (Ps. 139:7-12). Instances in
which He asks questions
themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them. 7 The are acts of accommodation
LORD said to Satan, From where have you come? Satan answered that allow Him to relate
to humans via dialogue.
the LORD and said, From going to and fro on the earth, and from Satan challenged Jobs
walking up and down on it. 8 And the LORD said to Satan, Have you motives for fearing God.
He suggested that Jobs
considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a devotion to God depended
blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil? on his life circumstances.
9 The limitation God
Then Satan answered the LORD and said, Does Job fear God for no imposed on Satans testing
reason? 10 Have you not put a hedge around him and his house and all demonstrated the Lords
desire that Job be a trophy
that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and of Gods grace even in
his possessions have increased in the land. 11 But stretch out your hand his suffering. 3
and touch all that he has, and he will curse you to your face. 12 And Richard D. Patterson,
HCSB Study Bible
the LORD said to Satan, Behold, all that he has is in your hand. Only
against him do not stretch out your hand. So Satan went out from the
presence of the LORD.

After this scene in the Book of Job, we read that Job lost everything.
The Sabeans took his oxen and donkeys and struck down his servants
(1:13-15), a lightning storm burned up his sheep and more of his servants
(1:16), the Chaldeans raided his camels and the servants attending them
(1:17), and worst of all, a powerful wind caused the house to collapse on
his sons and daughters (1:18-19). After all this, what did Job do?

Session 12 143

Further
Commentary
Jobs faith does not relieve
his agony; it causes it. Job
loved the Lord, his Father
and Friend, as no Greek
could ever love even the
best of his gods, as no
Babylonian, Canaanite or
Egyptian could love any
of their numerous gods.
Contrary to the Satans
forecast, Job has the
same good opinion of
Gods blessedness, even
when things go wrong.
But this faith cannot
survive without a terrible
struggle. Because Job sees
nothing but the Lords
hand in everything, how
can he escape the horrible
thought that God has
done something bad? He
knows no cause for such
a wilful act. It is harder to
say Praise the Lord when
he takes away than when
he gives. Job is hurled
into a cauldron of doubt
concerning the justice and
equity of Gods ways with
him. He must suffer and
grow before he can see
why this has happened. So
far he has begun superbly.
His condence in Gods
blessedness goes beyond
Elis submissive resignation
(1 Sam. 3:18), beyond
Davids (2 Sam. 16:11), for
these are receiving the
just deserts of their wrong
actions. Job does not
have the satisfaction of
knowing that he is paying
for his sins, for he has none.
None, at least, deserving
of punishments of such
magnitude. What, then, is
God doing to him that he
can perceive to be good
(Rom. 8:28)? The answer
to this question will be
found only when we reach
the end of the story. 4
Francis I. Andersen
144 Leader Guide
20
Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the
ground and worshiped. 21 And he said, Naked I came from my mothers
womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken
away; blessed be the name of the LORD.
22
In all this Job did not sin or charge God with wrong.
Based on Jobs response in 1:20-22, how would you describe
Jobs character?
The story of Job is an example of bad things happening to a righteous
man. In fact, its about very bad things happening to a very righteous man.
You may never have faced all the tragedies that Job faced. And you may
not be as upright as he was. But you probably know something of suering
and how it feels like the world is coming to an end. Jobs story does not
answer the question of why good people suer. But it does oer us some
direction. Here are three things to keep in mind:
Job did not suffer because God was angry with him.
One of the most interesting things about the conversation between
God and Satan is that God is the One who brings Job into the
conversation (v. 8)! The Lord suggested to Satan that he consider Job
because of his faithfulness and integrity. God did not suggest Job to Satan
because he was angry with Job. In fact, He suggested Job because He was
pleased with him! God knew that Job trusted Him for reasons far deeper
than cattle and oxen. He trusted God because of who He is.
One of the greatest temptations for Christians is to think that
suering is a sign that God is angry with us. God is paying me back, we
think. But Jobs story reminds us that Gods anger is not why we suer.
Furthermore, we know that on the cross, Jesus took the penalty for all
our sins. He absorbed the wrath of God for us (1 John 2:2). Granted, God
disciplines us. But the author of Hebrews reminds us that God is treating
you as sons (Heb. 12:7). We arent treated as enemies of God but as sons
and daughters of God. He disciplines us because He loves us (Heb. 12:5-7;
cf. Prov. 3:11-12). This is the reason God brought up Job to Satan. God
was pleased with Job.
Job did not suffer because he had sinned.
The book begins by telling us, There was a man in the land of Uz
whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who
feared God and turned away from evil (Job 1:1). Then after Jobs family
and livestock were taken, we read: In all this Job did not sin or charge
God with wrong (v. 22). The author is clear on this issueJob was not
suering because he sinned.
 When we suer, we often think of particular sins weve committed or
ways weve faltered in our obedience. We believe that we are getting what Voices from
we deserve. Usually our minds go to that one sin that we cannot seem to Church History
overcome, and we blame that sin for our suering. Our theology too often None but the godly are
goes like this: Do good, be blessed. Do wrong, be cursed. capable of desertionThe
being deserted, evidences
But Jobs story shows us something dierent. The righteous do suer. you to be a child of God.
The apostle Paul suered deeply during his ministry but said it was a How could you complain
that God has estranged
source of deep joy for him (Col. 1:24-25). One look at the life of Jesus Himself, if you had not
should quickly remind us that suering and sin arent always connected. sometimes received
smiles and tokens of love
Throughout His life, He was mocked, ridiculed, and rejected, even though from Him? 5
He was completely sinless. Thomas Watson
(circa 1620-1686)
Job suffered in order to reveal his faith.
When the Bible talks about suering, it often uses the imagery of a
furnace (1 Pet. 4:12). Gold, silver, and precious metals were put through
re in order to burn away any dross or impurities. God does this with our Voices from
faith as well. He puts us through the furnace of suering and trials in the Church
order to better reveal our faith. He is removing all the things that hinder What is called for today
is a growing core of
our faith and showing us that He is really all that we need. He is helping Christians not who have
us trust Him more and more and trust the world and ourselves less and martyr complexes but
whose daily lives are lived
less. It is because we trust Him that He brings trials our way so that our in such winsome, habitual,
faith is revealed as genuine and mature. and cheerful self-sacrice
that they can weather even
If God did not test our faith, we may forget we have it. James said, adverse circumstances
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for with God-glorifying
wisdom and grace. 6
you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let
Robert Yarbrough
steadfastness have its full eect, that you may be perfect and complete,
lacking in nothing (Jas. 1:2-4). This is one of Gods great aims for us
during suering. If God takes us through a season of suering in order to
help us love and trust Him more, it will always be worth it.

Think back to a season of suffering in your own life. Did

God use that suffering to lead you into a different kind of
relationship with Him? How so?

Why might suffering be an effective means of spiritual

growth (see Jas. 1:2-4)?

2. Job responds to his friends wrong answers

(Job 16:1-5,18-22).
After Jobs life came unraveled, his friends showed up on the scene to
oer counsel and comfort. Unfortunately, his friends gave answers that
angered God and proved unhelpful to Job. Look at Jobs response to their
wrong advice.

Session 12 145

Further
Commentary
So far Jobs friends had
taught him nothing, had
given no usable advice, and
in general had aggravated
his condition rather
than alleviated it. So he
branded them miserable
comforters. Miserable
translates ml, one of
the last words Eliphaz had
spoken, translated trouble
(15:35). According to [2:11]
these three had come to
Job to sympathize with
him and comfort him. To
this point there has been
none of either. The lesson
is, Helpful advice is usually
brief and encouraging, not
lengthy and judgmental. 7
Robert L. Alden
Further
Commentary
Job wanted an audience
with God to plead his case
(9:34-35; 13:20-22). If his
case came before God,
a holy God would bear
witness to his integrity.
Job placed his hope for
vindication in God alone,
despite his verbal attacks
against Him. He could
expect no help from his
friends; God remained
his only advocate. Job
repeated his need of and
desire for an arbitrator to
represent him before God.
Although he longed for an
audience with God (13:3)
where a fair hearing would
vindicate him (13:15-16),
he felt inadequate
to represent himself
(9:2-4,32-33). Jesus the
Messiah became just such
an intercessor for humanity
(Isa. 2:4; 11:4; Rom. 8:34;
Heb. 7:25; 1 John 2:1). 8
Richard D. Patterson,
HCSB Study Bible
146 Leader Guide
1
Then Job answered
and said:
2
I have heard many
such things;
miserable comforters
are you all.
3
Shall windy words
have an end?
Or what provokes you
that you answer?
4
I also could speak
as you do,
if you were in my place;
I could join words together against you
and shake my head at you.
5
I could strengthen you with my mouth,
and the solace of my lips would assuage your pain.
....................................
18
O earth, cover not my blood,
and let my cry nd no resting place.
19
Even now, behold, my witness is in heaven,
and he who testies for me is on high.
20
My friends scorn me;
my eye pours out tears to God,
21
that he would argue the case of a man with God,
as a son of man does with his neighbor.
22
For when a few years have come
I shall go the way from which I shall not return.
Not all advice is sound advice. While there may even be a grain of
truth in unwise counsel, when we are suering, we need more than grains
of truth, and we dont have the time to dig for nuggets of veiled wisdom.
We need words that sink deep into our hearts and oer comfort and solace
in our time of need (v. 5).
This story shows us how vital good friendships are to our lives. We
need to suer in community. We need good friends to surround us during
our suering, not like the miserable comforters who came to Job. We need
friends who will carry the load with us and walk with us through the
storms we are weathering.
What are some overused clichs or phrases that Christians
tend to use during times of suffering?
Why should we avoid being quick to give easy answers?
 The Book of Proverbs shows us over and over again the importance of
good friendships. Voices from
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity Church History
(Prov. 17:17). Never fear to go to God,
Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all since we have such a
sound judgment (Prov. 18:1). Mediator with him, who is
not only our friend but our
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who brother and husband. 9
sticks closer than a brother (Prov. 18:24). Richard Sibbes (1577-1635)
Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy
(Prov. 27:6).
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another (Prov. 27:17).
In order to have these kinds of friends, we must do two things, and we Voices from
get clues from Job. First, we need to be these kinds of friends. Job said he the Church
would do the opposite of his friends. He would actually try to help Gods work of change
has relationships at the
(Job 16:5). We must model true friendship if we are going to have true core. They are a necessary
friends. Many of us have consumer friendships. We take from our friends means and a wonderful
goal. Humble community is
but do not give back. You must be a friend to have friends. not the icing on the cake of
The second thing we must do to have good friendships is look to the the Christian life. In a real
way, it is the cake. 10
true Friend. Job said he wished that [his witness in heaven] would argue
Timothy Lane
the case of a man with God, as a son of man does with his neighbor and Paul David Tripp
(v. 21). If Job only knew then what we know now! We know there is One
who stands between God and man and pleads for us as a man pleads for
his friends. Jesus Christ is that man; He is that friend. He said, Greater
love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends
(John 15:13). Jesus is the true friend who stands between us and God and
lays His life down for us. We need Him.

What are some ways your friends have encouraged you

during your suffering?

3. God responds to Job and his friends

(Job 40:1-5; 42:7-9).
When we suer, we ask many questions. We ask ourselves: Why me?
What is God doing right now? What did I do to cause this? Why does suering
come to those who love God? How could a loving God allow this to happen?
These are legitimate questions. They need good and thoughtful answers.
But what we learn from Jobwho asked lots of questionsis that what
we need most in times of suering is God. We need His presence and His
voice and His nearness when we are suering. The greatest thing God can give
us when we suer is more of Himself. Listen to what the Lord said to Job:

Session 12 147

Further
Commentary
Only when the issue with
Job is settled does God turn
to the friends. Although
they are condemned, God
does not deal with them
according to their folly.
Job is clearly pronounced
to have had the better of
the debate (v. 7). We have
rested a great deal of
our interpretation on this
result. Jobs vindication
over against them is made
public. Their roles are
reversed! In the course of
their speeches, not one of
them even hinted that they,
not Job, might be the object
of Gods wrath (v. 7) and in
need of his grace. Now they
discover (it is a delightful
irony) that unless they can
secure the patronage of
Job (the very one they had
treated as in such need of
their spiritual resources),
they might not escape
the divine displeasure.
The effective prayer of
a righteous man to turn
away Gods anger from the
wicked (cf. Gen. 18) adds
another meaning to Jobs
suffering that no-one had
thought of. 11
Francis I. Andersen
Voices from
the Church
[God] really believes
that He is the most
worthy, most majestic,
magnicent, glorious,
stunningly beautiful being
in the universethat to
Him alone belong honor,
glory, and praise forever
and foreverHe is out of
controlours, not His. 12
Timothy Stoner
148 Leader Guide
1
And the LORD said to Job:
2
Shall a faultnder contend with the Almighty?
He who argues with God, let him answer it.
3
Then Job answered the LORD and said:
4
Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you?
I lay my hand on my mouth.
5
I have spoken once, and I will not answer;
twice, but I will proceed no further.
....................................
42:7
After the LORD had spoken these words to Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz
the Temanite: My anger burns against you and against your two friends,
for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has. 8 Now
therefore take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and oer
up a burnt oering for yourselves. And my servant Job shall pray for you, for
I will accept his prayer not to deal with you according to your folly. For you
have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has. 9 So Eliphaz the
Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went and did
what the LORD had told them, and the LORD accepted Jobs prayer.
What a wonderful ending to Jobs story! Job received an even grander
vision of Gods power and goodness through his suering. He was
reminded that no one can put God in the dock and bring accusations
against Him. Job saw just how small he was in comparison to the vastness
of Gods glory. Whats more, Job saw an even deeper level of Gods
goodness. The Lord accepted his prayer on behalf of his friends and
removed His anger from them.
Why might a greater understanding of the power and
character of God be what all of us in pain really need?
We learn two important truths about God from Job in regard to
suering and trials:
God is God and we are not.
Suering, if nothing else, reminds us that we are not God. It reminds
us that our lives are not in our control. David said, My times are in your
hand (Ps. 31:15). God is the One who directs our paths and determines
our days. In our Western, consumerist society, we are accustomed to
planning our own way most of the time, but often the Lord brings
things into our lives that remind us that He is God and we are not. Job
understood this well.
 God comes near in our suffering.
God revealed Himself to Job, as far as we know, in ways unlike before. 99 Essential
God answered Job. God heard his prayer. God made Himself known Christian Doctrines
to Job. 31. The Problem of Evil
Of course, God always does this, but there is something about Gods Many atheists have argued
nearness and presence in our suering that seems unique. Peter said that if God is all-powerful,
all-loving, and knows
something like this to those who were suering under persecution: If everything, then evil
would not exist in the
you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit world as humans know
of glory and of God rests upon you (1 Pet. 4:14). Something about the it today. But because evil
exists in the world, God
suering they endured made them more aware of Gods Spirit and glory must not exist (or if He
resting on them. God pursues us when we are suering. He makes known does exist, then He is not
good or all-powerful).
to His children that He is near and that He is good. Despite its powerful
Many of us have heard stories of people who have endured intense rhetoric, appealing to evil
as an argument against
seasons of loss and pain but said theyve never experienced God the way God fails: rst, because
they did as when they were suering. Our God is not distant and aloof outrage over bad things
in this world presupposes
when His children are suering. a good moral standard
Our God comes close to us. The greatest example of this is the death that does not exist apart
from God, and second,
and resurrection of Jesus. Through Jesus, God came close to us and because God could have
entered into our suering. He did not deal with us the way our folly a good reason (though
unknown to us) for
deserves. He gave His own Son who suered for us, in our place. His allowing evil and suffering
suering reminds us that we never suer alone and that one day He will to continue for a season.
Given what we know
put an end to all suering. This is our great hope, and this is our great about Gods character and
message to the world. purposes, Christians can
rest assured that even in
the midst of evil, God is
In what ways have you been reminded that God is God and working all things for our
you are not? good (Rom. 8:28).

How has God come near to you during your suffering?

Conclusion
Jobs journey is both dicult and beautiful. It is dicult because we
see just how deeply he suered and what he endured. Even though many
of us will never go through what Job did, we shouldnt minimize our
own pain and trauma when trials come our way. But Jobs story is also
beautiful. The way God came to his aid, revealed Himself, and eventually
restored Job gives us hope and courage. We are reminded that God will
not leave us or forsake us. He will even give us His own Son to remind us
He wants the best for His people.

CHRIST CONNECTION: In his time of suffering, Job yearned for

a mediatorsomeone to stand between him and God. Jesus is
the mediator who suffered, even though He had never sinned,
in order to pay the price for human sin and to put an end to
suffering on earth.

Session 12 149
 Additional Resources

Job and the

Dilemma of Suffering
References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry
1. Eugene H. Peterson, A Long Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject.
Obedience in the Same Direction
(Grand Rapids: IVP, 2000), 78. Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry
2. Oswald Chambers, in The blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry.
Quotable Oswald Chambers,
comp. and ed. David McCasland
(Grand Rapids: Discovery House,
2008), 282. Study Material
3. Richard D. Patterson, in HCSB
Study Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010), - The Defeat of EvilChapter 3 from The God I Dont Understand
825, n. 1:6; n. 1:7-8; n. 1:9-11; n. 1:12.
4. Francis I. Andersen, Job, by Christopher Wright
vol. 14 in Tyndale Old Testament
Commentaries (Downers Grove: - How Can I Believe in God and Pain?Article by Michael Ramsden;
IVP, 2008), 94.
5. Thomas Watson, All Things for nd a link to this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
God (Gideon House, 2015) [eBook].
6. Robert Yarbrough, Christ - Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including The Message and Purpose of
and Crocodiles: Suffering the Book of Job, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter,
and the Goodness of God in
Contemporary Perspective, in at LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project.
Suffering and the Goodness of God,
eds. Christopher W. Morgan and
Robert A. Peterson (Wheaton:
Crossway, 2008), 31. Sermon Podcast
7. Robert L. Alden, Job, vol. 11 in
The New American Commentary
(Nashville: B&H, 2003) [eBook on Tim Keller: If God Is Good
WORDsearch].
8. Richard D. Patterson, in HCSB
Study Bible, 843, n. 16:19-20; n. 16:21. Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources
9. Richard Sibbes, The Bruised
Reed and Smoking Flax, vol. 1
in Works of Richard Sibbes (New
Zealand: Titus Books, 2015)
[eBook]. Tip of the Week
10. Timothy S. Lane and Paul
David Tripp, How People Change
(Greensboro: New Growth Press,
Staying Open While Going Deeper
2008), 78.
11. Francis I. Andersen, Job, One big challenge for open groups is satisfying the desire of believers who
vol. 14 in Tyndale Old Testament
Commentaries, 316-17. want to go deeper into Gods Word while still maintaining an openness
12. Timothy Stoner, The God to non-Christians. There are ways to navigate that dilemma. Most
Who Smokes (Colorado Springs:
NavPress, 2008), 104. importantly, make sure Bible study is the center of the group experience.
Unchurched people overwhelmingly say if they decide to attend a church
or small group, a primary motivator is to understand the Bible. You dont
have to dumb down Bible study. Most people want to go deeper through
discussion. A proper balance of lecture and discussionand even other
teaching/learning methodsis critical to helping a group be both deep
and open.

150 Leader Guide

 SESSION 13

The Praises of
Gods People
Summary and Goal

Psalm 1 sets the stage for all the psalms, showing us a vision of Gods people who delight in Gods
Word. Psalm 100 shows how the psalms call us to celebrate who God is and give thanks for what He
has done. Psalm 110 points forward to the coming Messiah, who will make all things right. As we read
and pray and sing the psalms, we identify with the people of God who oer our lives in worship for
His great name.

Main Passages
Psalm 1
Psalm 100
Psalm 110

Session Outline
1. The psalms call us to delight in Gods Word (Ps. 1).
2. The psalms call us to celebrate Gods character and work (Ps. 100).
3. The psalms call us to look for the coming Messiah (Ps. 110).

Theological Theme
Worship is bringing glory to God for His Word, His works, and His promise.

Christ Connection
The psalms cover the spectrum of life. We praise God for His goodness and grace, we confess our
sin, and we lament the brokenness of this world. When Jesus came, He stepped into the pain and
brokenness of this world and sang these psalms with His people. But Jesus not only sings the psalms;
He is the King whom these psalms are ultimately about.

Missional Application
God calls us to join all of creation in praising Him for who He is and what He has done and to point
others to the Messiah that they might join in worshiping the King.

Date of My Bible Study: ______________________ 151

2016 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser.

Introduction Option
If time allows, show the
video clip Read Scripture
Series: Psalms to provide
an overview of the Book of
Psalms and the nature and
structure of its content. The
video will help esh out
the Introduction material
with information about
the psalms historical
background, production,
and literary variety. If the
clip is too long to t within
your groups meeting time,
consider emailing your
group members a link,
either before the group
meeting for preparation or
after for reection.
www.youtube.com/
watch?v=j9phNEaPrv8#t=11
For Further
Discussion
What do our daily
disciplines and habits say
about us and what we
value or enjoy?
How can the determination
to read Scripture daily, even
when we do not feel like it,
eventually lead to joy?
152 Leader Guide
Session Plan
The Praises of
Gods People
Session 13
Introduction
Start by stating the importance of the psalms and how this generation has
largely forgotten how to pray or sing them (leader p. 154; PSG p. 119).
What are the psalms you are most familiar with?
In what settings have you encountered these psalms? How
were they used?
Point out that the psalms were written over a long period of time, noting the
variety among them. Then summarize the session on Psalms 1, 100, and 110
(leader pp. 154-155; PSG p. 120). Reference Pack Item 7: Wisdom Literature
as needed throughout this session.
1. The psalms call us to delight in Gods Word
(Ps. 1).
Speak about the rst psalm setting the stage for the whole Book of Psalms
(leader p. 155), and then read Psalm 1 out loud together as a group. Stress that
the emphasis of the psalm is on delight in the Lord (leader pp. 155-156;
PSG pp. 120-121).
What is the difference between studying Gods Word or
attending a worship service out of duty versus delight?
Why do you think Psalm 1 focuses on delight in
Gods Word?
Say that the delight spoken of in Psalm 1 is something that takes intentionality
on an everyday basis. Contrast how Christians for centuries have read the
psalms when rst waking and just before going to bed with how we now settle
for falling asleep looking at a television screen or an iPhone (leader p. 156).
Mention that delighting in the Lord and walking in His ways are inseparable
(leader p. 156; PSG pp. 121-122).
What is the relationship between delighting in Gods Word
and delighting in God Himself?
2. The psalms call us to celebrate Gods
character and work (Ps. 100). Point 2 Option
Ask a volunteer to read Psalm 100. Comment that the psalm speaks of Ask: What do people in
our culture tend to think
praising God as we enter into a time of worship and how this should inform about worship?
the rhythms of daily life (leader p. 157; PSG pp. 122-123). Ask groups of 3-4 to
read the Essential
Christian Doctrine
The psalmist talked about attending worship with praise
Worship (leader p. 158;
and thanksgiving already in our hearts. What do we do PSG p. 124) and to discuss
when we dont feel like praising God? the following questions
(consider writing them
on a board or sheet of
What should we do when our hearts seem cold to God? paper for groups to have;
also available on the DVD
in TheGospel Project for
Note that Psalm 100 celebrates Gods character and work. Observe the wide Adults: Leader Pack):
array of emotions and many pictures of God that are present in the Book of What would it look like to
Psalms. Reminding ourselves of God and His promise is one of the central have a heart of worship for
God in every area of life?
purposes of worship (leader p. 158; PSG p. 123).
How can our worship
serve to strengthen one
What are some ways you can use the psalms to remember another in our faith?
Gods grace to you throughout the week?
How can our worship be a
witness to non-believers?
How would constant reminders of Gods faithfulness After a few moments,
impact your spiritual life? encourage groups to
share their responses
and reections.
State that Psalm 100 reorients us to the big picture, shifting our gaze from
the things of this world to the Creator of this world (leader pp. 158-159;
PSG p. 124).
Christ Connection: The
psalms cover the spectrum
What is the connection between celebration of Gods work of life. We praise God for
and involvement in Gods mission? His goodness and grace,
we confess our sin, and
we lament the brokenness
3. The psalms call us to look for the coming of this world. When Jesus
came, He stepped into the
Messiah (Ps. 110). pain and brokenness of
Highlight that Psalm 110 is the most quoted psalm in the New Testament, this world and sang these
psalms with His people.
and then read the passage. Show how this psalm focuses our attention But Jesus not only sings
on Jesus by its speaking of the coming Messiah and His judgment the psalms; He is the King
whom these psalms are
(leader pp. 159-160; PSG pp. 125-126). ultimately about.
........................................................
In what ways do the psalms help form our prayers so that
Missional Application:
our hearts desires align with Gods heart?
God calls us to join all of
creation in praising Him for
Conclusion who He is and what He has
done and to point others
Say that the Book of Psalms was the hymnbook of Jesus, noting that the to the Messiah that they
psalms not only belong to Him but are about Him. For those of us in Christ, might join in worshiping
the King.
His songbook becomes ours (leader p. 160; PSG p. 126). Apply the truths of
this session with His Mission, Your Mission (PSG p. 127).

Session 13 153

Voices from
the Church
The Psalms are the steady,
sustained subcurrent of
healthy Christian living. 1
N. T. Wright
Praying Through
the Psalms 2
1. Say them out loud. The
psalms contain both the
word God has to say to
us about prayer and the
words He wants us to say
to Him in prayer.
2. Festoon them. Think of a
psalm as a Christmas tree.
Read it and then festoon it
with your own prayers, as
you would decorate a tree.
3. Paraphrase them.
Meditate and study a
psalm until you understand
it well enough to put it into
your own words.
4. Learn them by heart.
Memorize the psalms, but
not by rote. Rather, learn
them by heart; make their
words your words.
5. Marinate in them. The
soul should marinate in
Scripture by repeated,
thoughtful, slow,
comprehensive, and Spirit-
enlightened reading.
154 Leader Guide
Expanded Session Content
The Praises of
Gods People
Session 13
Introduction
Martin Lloyd-Jones, the famous English preacher from last century,
was a dynamic speaker who sought to preach Gods Word with power,
under the inuence of the Holy Spirit. Even today, preachers all over the
world consult his books, pastors who share the same respect for the
formative power of studying and explaining Gods Word.
But Lloyd-Jones believed there was more going on in a worship service
than just the sermon. On Sundays when he had a guest speaker or was
away speaking in other churches, Lloyd-Jones made sure to select
beforehand the songs that would be sung and the psalms that would be
read aloud. He knew that what people sang from their hearts and recited
with their lips was just as formative and important as what the preacher
said from the pulpit.
Today, we are part of a generation that has largely forgotten how to
pray and sing the psalms. Perhaps for the rst time in all of church history,
the psalms are no longer the bedrock for our individual devotion or
corporate worship. This puts us out of step not only with the rest of church
history but with the earliest Christians. The apostles quoted more from the
Psalms than any other book in the Old Testament. They were steeped in
the rhythms and poetry and theology of their peoples prayer book.
What are the psalms you are most familiar with?
In what settings have you encountered these psalms? How
were they used?
Today we come to a pause in the Old Testament storyline. Gods
covenant people wrote the psalms over a long period of time. Many are
written by King David, a few come from other kings, one comes to us
from Moses, and many are from Asaph. The purpose of the psalms was
to recall the mighty acts of God for the people. Some of the psalms focus
on praise. Others cry out and lament the evil in this world. Some are
confessions of sin. Others point forward to the coming Messiah.
 Session Summary
In this session, we will look briey at three dierent psalms. The rst, Further
Psalm 1, sets the stage for all the psalms, showing us a vision of Gods Commentary
people who delight in Gods Word. Next we see how Psalm 100 shows Happy expresses
how the psalms call us to celebrate who God is and give thanks for what the sense of joy and
satisfaction in ones state
He has done. Then we look at how Psalm 110 points forward to the or circumstances. It often
coming Messiah, who will make all things right. As we read and pray and is the result of blessing
that comes from trust in
sing the psalms, we identify with the people of God who oer our lives in and obedience to Yahweh
worship for His great name. (34:8; 40:4; 84:5; 89:15)
The Hebrew word torah
is sometimes translated
1. The psalms call us to delight in Gods Word as law, but it is better
understood as teaching
(Ps. 1). or instruction. It is the
The rst psalm sets the stage for the following 149 psalms. It is the revelation of Gods will for
His people rather than a
model for what the whole Book of Psalms is aboutdelighting in God. body of legislative material
Take a moment to read the psalm out loud together as a group, which is or a collection of judicial
decisions, both of which are
the way that the Israelites would have said or sung this psalm. notions often associated
with the English word law.
1 Yahwehs instruction is
Blessed is the man not a burden (Deut. 30:11;
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, 1 John 5:3) but a delight
for those who trust in Him.
nor stands in the way of sinners, Meditating (from Heb. root
nor sits in the seat of scoers; hgh; Josh. 1:8) has a literal
2 meaning of mumbling to
but his delight is in the law of the LORD, oneself, an activity closely
and on his law he meditates day and night. related to concentrating
3 on something in order to
He is like a tree planted by streams of water understand itThe contrast
that yields its fruit in its season, here focuses on the destiny
of the two ways rather than
and its leaf does not wither. on their behavior, which
In all that he does, he prospers. is developed in verses 1-3.
4 Chaff, the useless product
The wicked are not so, of threshing, is a contrast
but are like cha that the wind drives away. to the fruit in the previous
5 verse. The wicked are
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, to be carried away by the
nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; windbeing separated
6 from what is useful
for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, and valuable. 3
but the way of the wicked will perish. Kevin R. Warstler
and Sherri L. Klouda,
Many people who are familiar with Psalm 1 think of it as a HCSB Study Bible

proverba simple description of wisdom versus folly. And to be sure,

there is a contrast between wisdom and foolishness in the psalm.
But the more we study and reect on this psalm, the more we realize
it is ultimately about delight. Its not simply a lesson about doing the right Voices from
the Church
thing or learning the right doctrine or following the right rules. Its about
The activity of meditating
worship and joy. The psalms do teach us, but the way they teach us is by on the Bible follows the
training us to nd our satisfaction in the Lord. Psalm 1 claims that the disposition of delighting in
the Bible. 4
believer who is blessed is the one whose delight is in the Lords instruction.
Jonathan Leeman
Its more about our hearts delight than our minds choice.

Session 13 155

Voices from
Church History
The most valuable thing
the Psalms do for me
is to express that same
delight in God which made
David dance. 5
C. S. Lewis (1898-1963)
Voices from
Church History
We must ask how we can
understand the Psalms
as Gods Word, and then
we shall be able to pray
them. It does not depend,
therefore, on whether
the Psalms express
adequately that which we
feel at a given moment in
our heart. If we are to pray
aright, perhaps it is quite
necessary that we pray
contrary to our own heart.
Not what we want to pray
is important, but what God
wants us to pray. 6
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
(1906-1945)
156 Leader Guide
Not long ago, the two of us were walking on the sidewalk with our
kids in their strollers. We passed by a recently built mosque in our town. It
was packed with people praying. The parking lot was full. It seemed like
every time we walked by, we saw that people were there. A few days later,
we were talking with a pastor who was struggling about what to do with
the Sunday night service in their church. It burdened us to think that
there was always a crowd at the mosque but not at the church. What does
this say about where we find our delight? we wondered. What does this say
about our commitment to each other as believers?
What is the difference between studying Gods Word or
attending a worship service out of duty versus delight?
Why do you think Psalm 1 focuses on delight in
Gods Word?
Psalm 1 paints a picture of a believer who delights in Gods Word, but
this delight is not something that only happens spontaneously. It is built
into the pattern of everyday life. Day and night this person meditates on
Gods Word. In other words, delighting in Gods Word is not something
that will happen by chance. It takes intentionality and preparation.
For centuries, believers have woken up in the morning and said a
psalm and have gone to bed at night just after reading a psalm. There is
no reason for Christians to settle for falling asleep at night with the soft
glow of the television screen or iPhone being the last thing they see. We
shouldnt be satised to let a late-night talk show host or a show on Netix
have the last word before we climb into bed. One way to increase our
delight in the Lord is to be intentional about saying the psalms at night.
We have a friend who was going through a dicult time at his job.
The stress in his life had caused him to have health issues, and anxiety was
keeping him up at night. A few weeks later he told us that he was doing
much better. He had started to read Gods Word every night. He simply
put the phone down and picked up Gods Word, and he discovered that
this was not just a book that he could read; this was a Book that could
read him! It puried his mind and prepared his heart as he brought the
day to a close.
Like our friend discovered, the psalms are a companion to everyday
life. But they are so much more than a simple stress-reliever. They reorient
us to God and His salvation. They help us delight in the Lord and walk in
His ways. We cant really do one without the other. We walk in His ways
because we delight in the Lord, and we show our delight is in the Lord by
walking in His ways. Furthermore, we focus on the Lord because we want
to be fruitful, not in gaining material prosperity for ourselves but living
prosperous, spiritual lives that bear fruit for Gods kingdom.
 What is the relationship between delighting in Gods Word
and delighting in God Himself?
Further
Commentary
2. The psalms call us to celebrate Gods Providing seven ways to
character and work (Ps. 100). give thanks, the psalmist
Not only do the psalms call us to delight in Gods Word, but they also exhorts worshipers to be
grateful at all times. The
call us to celebrate together who God is and what He has done for us. Take most obvious expression of
a look at this psalm, which prepares the heart for corporate worship. gratitude is singing, which
is the joyful expression of
love and overows from
1
Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! a liberated heart (vv. 1-2;
2
Isa. 51:11; Col. 3:13-16).
Serve the LORD with gladness! The redeemed also act
Come into his presence with singing! gratefully when they pursue
3
knowledge of God through
Know that the LORD, he is God! His Word and works
It is he who made us, and we are his; (Ps. 100:3; Rom. 16:25-27).
Knowing God not only
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. humbles dependent
4
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, creatures, it heartens them
to realize that he is willing
and his courts with praise! to make himself known,
Give thanks to him; bless his name! and ultimately he does
5
so through Jesus Christ,
For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, revealing our God as a
and his faithfulness to all generations. Father and Good Shepherd
(cf. Ps. 100:3,5; Matt. 6:9;
John 10:14). The psalmist
Psalm 100 is a classic example of preparing your heart to enter his then commands Gods
people to express their
gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Notice that the gratitude (Ps. 100:2,4).
psalm doesnt give us the image of praising God only once the people were In Hebrew there is no
distinction between
present. They had praise on their hearts and minds as they entered. serving in church or at
What would our worship services be like if we intentionally prepared work. The same word
describes worship in every
ourselves beforehand? My grandfather would arrive at church 45 minutes place (Col. 3:17). All of
before the service so he could still his mind and prepare his heart. He life in every realm is an
opportunity to give thanks
knew he needed to prepare himself before worship. Of course, you might to him and bless his
be thinking, I have kids. Its impossible for me to prepare myself. Its a struggle name (Ps. 100:4). 7
to get everyone ready on time in the first place! We face some of the same George Robertson,
Gospel Transformation Bible
issues, but we are doing our best to create rhythms of life that help us
prepare our own hearts and the hearts of our children. That will look
dierent for people at dierent stages of life. But surely we should
prepare ourselves.
Voices from
the Church
The psalmist talked about attending worship with praise
Gratitude and joy are
and thanksgiving already in our hearts. What do we do
organs of perception. We
when we dont feel like praising God? dont see in order to give
thanks and rejoice; we give
thanks and rejoice in order
What should we do when our hearts seem cold to God?
to see. 8
Ben Patterson

Session 13 157

Voices from
the Church
In a sense we can think
of the psalms in terms of
reection, response, and
formation. All the psalms
help us reect on who God
is and what He has done.
They call us to respond
to who God is in worship,
but they also form us as
we learn from them how
to respond to life and talk
to God. 9
David Howard
99 Essential
Christian Doctrines
89. Worship
While many reduce worship
to an event or the singing
of worship songs, worship
is rst and foremost
something of the heart
and extends to all areas of
life. The aim and focus of
worship is God, giving Him
the exact due of praise and
adoration that He deserves.
Worship should be carried
out not only at a personal
level within a Christians
life but also in joining with
other Christians in the
corporate act of worship
and stewarding our gifts for
the glory of God. Corporate
worship serves to edify and
strengthen other Christians,
but it also serves as a
witness to non-believers of
the greatness of God.
158 Leader Guide
This is a psalm that celebrates Gods character and work. Like all the
psalms, it shapes our view of God.
Sometimes we limit the eectiveness of the songs we sing in church
because we only appeal to one or two emotional reactions. But life is
dicult, and thats why the psalms give us a wide array of emotions and
many pictures of God. We see God as good and glorious, angry and
jealous, just and innite, compassionate and merciful. He is the Shepherd
who knows us better than we know ourselves (Ps. 23). And yet, in the
darkest times, the psalms give us the ability to lament (see Ps. 88a lament
with no immediate resolution).
Reminding is one of the central purposes of worship. Even the sad
psalms usually remind us of God and His promise. They are the psalmists
way of reminding the people of what God has said and what God has
done. Reminding matters. We take the Lords Supper in remembrance.
Why? Because sometimes we havent even left the churchs parking lot and
were already living like the cross and resurrection didnt happen! The
human act of worshipresponding to Godis something that shapes
and refocuses us.
What are some ways you can use the psalms to remember
Gods grace to you throughout the week?
How would constant reminders of Gods faithfulness
impact your spiritual life?
Psalm 100 reorients us to the big picture of a glorious God and His
wonderful creation. Our society promotes people who are self-made and
self-sucient. Psalm 100 shows us the dierence between self-made
people and God-made people. It reminds us that God is in control. Our
times belong to Him. All Christian worship is wrapped up in the reality
that humanity is both frail and beautifulcreated in the image of God
(beautiful) yet broken and sinful and mortal (frail).
Knowing the Lord is God, the psalmist called for thanksgiving.
The apostle Paul often linked thanksgiving and joy in his letters (see
Phil. 4:4-7). He could see the connection between a thankful heart and a
joyful heart. What is perhaps most interesting about Pauls letters is that
his thanksgiving is almost always for spiritual blessings. Of course, we
should be thankful in all circumstances and for all good things in life, but
what does it say about us that it seems natural to give thanks for earthly
things (such as health, a secondhand car, a new job, etc.) but awkward
to give thanks for spiritual blessings? Could it be that we dont see Gods
salvation as something quite as real as whatever we can see or feel? The
psalms help us see both earthly and spiritual blessings and direct our
praise back to God.
 Like all the psalms, Psalm 100 elevates our mind and shifts our gaze
from the things of this world to the Creator of this world. It stirs our Further
aections and guides us to see God as more attractive and glorious than Commentary
anything else in the world. This kind of worship is what stirs up our desire The startling fact that
to tell others about Christ. Our witness ows from our worship. And yet David spoke of a king as
my lordwas pointed
our worship is also part of our witness! When we show our love for God, outby Christ, who left
outsiders see us transxed by Gods beauty and desire to see that God his hearers to think out
its implications, and his
for themselves. apostles to spell them
outSit at my right hand.
What is the connection between celebration of Gods work The authority and power
conferred by such an
and involvement in Gods mission? address will be illustrated
in the remaining verses
of the psalm; but it will
3. The psalms call us to look for the coming take the New Testament
Messiah (Ps. 110). to do it justiceHe is not
only greater than David
One of the ways the psalms reorient our hearts is by pointing us to the (Acts 2:34, for David
future. Throughout the psalms, we catch glimpses of Jesus. Psalm 110 is a did not ascend into the
heavens) but greater
good example, and its the most quoted psalm in the New Testament: than the angels (Heb. 1:13,
to what angel has he
1 ever said, Sit at my right
The LORD says to my Lord: hand?)God exalted
Sit at my right hand, him as emphatically
as man rejected him
until I make your enemies your footstool. (Acts 5:30ff, Jesus whom
2
The LORD sends forth from Zion your mighty scepter. you killedGod exalted
at his right hand)It is as
Rule in the midst of your enemies! Saviour and Intercessor
3
Your people will oer themselves freely that he reigns (Acts 5:31;
Rom. 8:34, Christwho is
on the day of your power, at the right hand of God
in holy garments; from the womb of the morning, intercedes for us)In
token of a nished task,
the dew of your youth will be yours. he is seated (Heb. 10:11ff,
4
The LORD has sworn and will not change his mind, every priest stands daily
offering repeatedlyBut
You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. Christsat down at the
5
The LORD is at your right hand; right hand of God)He
awaits the last surrender
he will shatter kings on the day of his wrath. (Heb. 10:13, to wait until
6
He will execute judgment among the nations, lling them with corpses; his enemies should be
made a stool for his feet;
he will shatter chiefs over the wide earth. cf. also 1 Cor. 15:25ff). So
7
He will drink from the brook by the way; this single verse displays
the divine Person of Christ,
therefore he will lift up his head. his power and the prospect
before him. Together with
verse 4 it underlies most
There is so much in this psalm to unpack and not enough time in this of the New Testament
session to unpack it all! The main thing to keep in mind, however, is that teaching on his glory as
Priest-King. 10
the psalms focus our attention on Jesus. The rst readers of this psalm
Derek Kidner
might see this as anticipating the coming of their Messiah. Today we read
it and think of Jesus work in the past and His coming again in the future.

Session 13 159

Further
Commentary
The passages which
clarify this oracle are
Genesis 14:18-20 and
Hebrews 5:5-10 with
6:197:28. It emerges
from these that both the
name Melchizedek (king
of righteousness) and his
sphere as king of Salem
(i.e. of Jerusalem, whose
shortened form brings
out the meaning, Peace)
made him a tting pointer
to the one who was to
come (Heb. 7:2); that the
silence surrounding him
in the narrative made him
an apt symbol of one who
in full reality had neither
beginning of days nor end
of life (Heb. 7:3); further,
that his standing on the
Godward side of Abraham,
both in the blessing and
gifts he gave and in the
tithes he received, proved
his priority over the whole
Abrahamic people, and
over the levitical priesthood
in particular (Heb. 7:4-19).
To this it can be added
that, in Melchizedek,
priesthood and kingship
were united as they were
to be in Christ. [Compare]
the emphasis on Christ as
King in the early chapters
of Hebrews, and on him as
Priest in the later chapters,
just as in these verses of
the psalm. 12
Derek Kidner
Voices from
Church History
Raise your eyes to the
Judge, see who it is that is
seated, with whom he is
seated, and where. Christ is
sitting at the right hand of
the Father. 13
Ambrose (circa 340-397)
160 Leader Guide
Many of the psalms that point to Jesus contain an element of
judgment. Consider the line about God coming back to execute judgment
among the nations and ll them with corpses and shatter chiefs.
We nd it hard to greet such an example of Gods judgment with joy
and delight, but perhaps this is because we do not know what it is like to
be part of a society where unjust leaders tyrannize the people. When we
get a taste of injustice, we long for the world to be made right, and God
the just Judge of the universeis the One who will execute vengeance
when He brings justice to the world. And so, with the psalmist, we say,
Yes, Lord, come and judge the nations! and remember that the Judge of
the universe is the Jesus who once was on a cross, dying for our sins before
rising to new life.
In what ways do the psalms help form our prayers so that
our hearts desires align with Gods heart?
Conclusion
The Book of Psalms was the hymnbook of Jesus. We are told that
Jesus sang a psalm with His disciples (Mark 14:26), and we see Jesus
quoting from the Psalms more than any other book in the Old Testament.
But the psalms do not only belong to Jesus; they are also about Him.
Jonathan Leeman writes: Sometimes Jesus said that its verses were about
Him, particularly when they referred to a conquering son of David.
Sometimes He put its verses into His mouth as if they were by Him,
particularly when the psalmist spoke as a suering man. He is the happy
Man of Psalm 1 who meditated on Gods Word. He is the conquering
Son of Psalm 2 and the victorious One with enemies under His feet in
Psalm 110. But He is also the forsaken and mocked One of Psalm 22. He
is the One given vinegar for His thirst in Psalm 69. 11
This is the beauty of seeing Christ in the psalms. For those of us in
Christ, His songbook becomes ours. We sing about Him and to Him, and
slowly but surely, we become more like Him. Dont neglect the psalms.
They show us Jesus.
CHRIST CONNECTION: The psalms cover the spectrum of life.
We praise God for His goodness and grace, we confess our sin,
and we lament the brokenness of this world. When Jesus came,
He stepped into the pain and brokenness of this world and
sang these psalms with His people. But Jesus not only sings the
psalms; He is the King whom these psalms are ultimately about.
 Additional Resources

The Praises of Gods People

Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry References

Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject. 1. N. T. Wright, The Case for the
Psalms (New York: HarperCollins,
Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry 2013), 23.
blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry. 2. Ben Patterson, Gods Prayer Book
(Grand Rapids: Tyndale, 2008),
20-21.
Study Material 3. Kevin R. Warstler and Sherri L.
Klouda, in HCSB Study Bible
(Nashville: B&H, 2010), 881, n. 1:1;
- Reading Psalms and Proverbs: A Conversation with David Howard n. 1:2; n. 1:4.
4. Jonathan Leeman, Psalms:
Chapter 7 from Read the Bible for Life by George H. Guthrie Songs for New Creation Hearts,
The Gospel Project: Adult Leader
- Schooled by the PsalmsArticle by Ben Patterson; nd a link to this Guide (Winter 2012-13): 96.
5. C. S. Lewis, Reections on the
article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources Psalms (New York: Harcourt Inc.,
1986), 45.
- Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including Poetic Parallelism in 6. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Psalms:
Psalms, can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at The Prayer Book of the Bible
(Minneapolis: Augsburg Fortress,
LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project. 1970), 14-15.
7. George Robertson, Gospel
Transformation Bible (Wheaton:
Crossway, 2013), 746, n. Psalm 100.
Sermon Podcast 8. Ben Patterson, Muscular Faith
(Grand Rapids: Tyndale, 2011), 160.
Juan Sanchez: The Psalms (Overview) 9. David Howard, quoted in Read
the Bible for Life, by George H.
Guthrie (Nashville: B&H, 2011), 117.
10. Derek Kidner, Psalms73150,
Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources vol. 16 in Tyndale Old Testament
Commentaries (Downers Grove:
IVP, 2008), 428.
11. Jonathan Leeman, Psalms:
Tip of the Week Songs for New Creation Hearts,
The Gospel Project: Adult Leader
Guide (Winter 2012-13): 101.
Five Actions of Healthy Small Groups 12. Derek Kidner, Psalms73150,
vol. 16 in Tyndale Old Testament
Commentaries, 430.
Based on Acts 2:42-47, these are ve actions that come intuitively from 13. Ambrose, On the Christian Faith,
healthy small groups: 2.12.102, quoted in Psalms51-150,
ed. Quentin F. Wesselschmidt,
Provocative, demanding Bible study to understand what to believe and vol. VIII in Ancient Christian
Commentary on Scripture: Old
how to relate to God and others. Testament (Downers Grove: IVP,
2007), 263.
Redemptive community on display before a watching world. 14. Rick Howerton, Destination:
Risky, transparent praying in full condence that God will act. Community (Nashville: Serendipity
House, 2007), 97-100.
Doing life together in order to know others and be known by them.
Taking care of each other as a result of sacricial love for each other.
Work toward incorporating these actions into your group even as you pray
for God to work in your group to make these a reality. 14

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