Gen-Rev, Psalms

Psalm 119

What I Noticed Today (Psalms 119)

Psalm 119

Psalm 119 is the longest psalm in the book of Psalms, with 176 verses. It is written in an acrostic format. The first letter of each paragraph begins with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Additionally, each paragraph (also known as a strophe), is composed of eight verses. Each of these verses begins with the same Hebrew letter.

The psalm is a collection of prayers on the Word of God. The Word of God is referred to by ten synonyms: Law, Word, Saying, Commandment, Statutes, Judgment, Precepts, Testimony, Way, and Path.

Aleph

In verses 1-8, the psalmist declares that those who walk in the way of the Lord are blessed. He prays that he will be able to follow God’s law and promises to praise God as he learns more about God’s statutes.

Bet

In verses 9-16, the psalmist says that a man stays pure by wholeheartedly seeking God, storing up God’s Word in his heart, and meditating on it continually.

Gimel

In verses 17-24, the psalmist asks the Lord to open his eyes to see the blessings in the Law. He prays that the Lord would keep evil-doers away so that he can meditate on God’s Word.

Daleth

In verses 25-32, the psalmist prays that the Lord would learn and understand God’s statutes so that he can meditate on them. He promises to remain faithful to God’s Law.

He

In verses 33-40, the psalmist declares his loyalty to the Word of God, which he followed with a whole heart. He prayed that the Lord would keep him from covetousness and vanity.

Waw

In verses 41-48, the psalmist asks the Lord to save him based on the Lord’s promise and steadfast love. He then prayed that he would keep God’s Law continually.

Zayin

In verses 49-56, the psalmist says that his hope is in the Word comforts him in the midst of his afflictions. He is angry with those who forsake the Law. He is blessed because he has kept God’s precepts.

Heth

In verses 57-64, the psalmist says the Lord is his portion and promises to keep His Word even when surrounded by the wicked.

Teth

In verses 65-72, the psalmist says that the Lord has dealt with his servant according to His Word and asks the Lord to teach him good judgment and knowledge so he won’t go astray. He admits that being afflicted helped him learn the Lord’s statutes

Yodh

In verses 73-80, the psalmist declares that he was created by the Lord and asks that the Lord give him the understanding to learn His commandments. He prayed that the insolent be shamed while those who fear the Lord will turn to Him.

Kaph

In verses 81-88, the psalmist says his soul longs for the Lord and wonders how long he will have to wait before the Lord vindicates him. He claims to have remained true to the Lord’s precepts despite facing intense persecution.

Lamedh

In verses 89-96, the psalmist declares the Lord’s Word is fixed in heaven and established on earth. God’s law delights him and has given him life.

Mem

In verses 97-104, the psalmist declares his love for the Law of God, meditating on it all day. It has given him more understanding and keeps him from evil.

Nun

In verses 105-112, the psalmist sees God’s Word as a light to direct his path, and he vows to follow it. In his distress, he prays for the Lord to rescue him as he follows God’s Law faithfully.

Samekh

In verses 113-120, the psalmist hates the double-minded but loves the Law because it is his refuge. He prays that the Lord will keep him safe as He destroys the wicked.

Ayin

In verses 121-128, the psalmist prays for God to not abandon him to the wicked, to save him, and teach him God’s Law so he will know how to act

Pe

In verses 129-136, the psalmist says God’s Word gives light and understanding. He prays that God will be gracious to him, keep iniquity from him, and redeem him from oppression.

Tsadhe

In verses 137-144, the psalmist declares the righteousness of the Lord. He expresses zeal for the Word that comforts him even in the midst of trouble and anguish.

Qoph

In verses 145-152, the psalmist asks the Lord to rescue him as he cries for help. The evil men who persecute him are closing in around him, yet he relies on the true Word of the Lord.

Resh

In verses 153-160, the psalmist calls on the Lord to deliver him in the midst of his anguish according to His promise. The wicked are far from salvation, but the Lord’s mercy is great.

Sin & Shin

In verses 161-168, the psalmist’s heart is in awe of the Words of the Lord despite the princes who persecute him. He hates falsehood, but loves the Law, and prays for salvation as he meditates on the Law because he loves it.

Taw

In verses 169-176, the psalmist asks God to hear his cry and to deliver him according to His word. He will praise the Lord and longs for salvation because he delights in God’s law.

What did you notice in your study today? Feel free to visit the website and leave a question or a comment.

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Tomorrow: Psalms 120-131

90-Days New Testament Study

Day 15: Mark 15-16, Luke 1

Jesus Before Pilate - Mark 15:1-15

Understand It

What prompted Pilate to goad Jesus about defending Himself? (15:3-4)
How did Jesus react to the accusations raised against Him by the chief priests? (15:5)
What finally happened to Jesus? Why? (15:15)

Apply It

What reminder can you use this week to entrust your reputation to God each day?

The Soldiers Mock Jesus - Mark 15:16-20

Understand It

What did the soldiers do to Jesus? (15:17-20)
What did the soldiers say in mockery of Jesus? (15:18)
Why did the soldiers fall on their knees before Jesus? (15:19)

Apply It

What should be your response if you are criticized for your faith this week?

The Crucifixion - Mark 15:21-32

Understand It

Why did Jesus not carry the cross Himself? (15:21)
How did the people insult Jesus when He was on the cross? (15:29-30)
What challenge did Jesus ignore? (15:31-32)

Apply It

What is one way you can say thank you to Jesus for paying for your sins?

The Death of Jesus - Mark 15:33-41

Understand It

What did Jesus say, "at the ninth hour"? (15:34)
What did Jesus mean when He said that God had "forsaken" Him? (15:34)
How did the bystanders misunderstand what Jesus was going through? (15:35)

Apply It

When might you have to face loneliness as a part of following Christ this week?

The Burial of Jesus - Mark 15:42-47

Understand It

Who was Joseph? (15:43)
What risks did Joseph take in approaching Pilate? (15:43)
What do Joseph’s actions tell us about his own understanding of Jesus? (15:43-46)

Apply It

What step of courage can you take in serving God this week?

The Resurrection - Mark 16:1-20

Understand It

What did the women see when they got to the tomb? (16:4)
What did the angel tell the women to do? (16:6-7)
Why did the women flee from the tomb and not tell anyone what they had witnessed? (16:8)

Apply It

What can you do this week to obey Christ’s command to "preach the good news to all creation"?

There is a short introduction available for the book of Luke. You can read it here.

Introduction - Luke 1:1-4

Understand It

On what kind of people did Luke rely for his information? (1:2)
What credentials did Luke use to back up the trustworthiness of what he wrote? (1:3)
What did Luke hope would be the result of this Gospel in the life of Theophilus? (1:4)

Apply It

What difference would you like there to be in your relationship with Christ as a result of reading Luke?

The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold - Luke 1:5-25

Understand It

What experience gripped Zechariah with fear? (1:11-12)
Why was Zechariah rendered unable to speak until the day of the prophecy’s fulfillment? (1:19-20)
How did Elizabeth react to Zechariah’s news? (1:25)

Apply It

What long-term frustration can you identify in your life that needs to be entrusted to God?

The Birth of Jesus Foretold - Luke 1:26-38

Understand It

How did Gabriel describe the child that would be born to Mary? (1:31-33)
How did Mary’s response to the angel differ from Zechariah’s? (1:34, 38)
What did Mary’s final statement to Gabriel show about her relationship with God? (1:38)

Apply It

What "impossibilities" in your life do you want to thank God for this week?

Mary Visits Elizabeth - Luke 1:39-45

Understand It

What two remarkable things happened as soon as Mary called her greeting to Elizabeth? (1:41)
Why did Elizabeth describe herself as "favored"? (1:43)
Who was blessed? (1:45)

Apply It

What older Christian could you contact or visit this week to express appreciation for the help he or she has been to you?

Mary's Song - Luke 1:46-56

Understand It

What attributes of God are extolled in the first part of Mary’s song? (1:46-49)
How did Mary describe herself in her song? (1:47-48)
According to Mary’s song, what kinds of people are given special treatment by God? (1:50-55)

Apply It

In what way can you glorify the Lord and rejoice in your Savior this week?

The Birth of John the Baptist - Luke 1:57-66

Understand It

What was the relatives’ response when Elizabeth told them the child wouldn’t be called Zechariah? (1:61)
Why was Zechariah’s voice restored? (1:63-64)
How did Zechariah react when his voice was restored? (1:64)

Apply It

With what person can you celebrate a happy or joyous event this week? How?

Zechariah's Song - Luke 1:67-80

Understand It

For whom and from what was the salvation that Zechariah described? (1:69-71, 77)
What title did Zechariah say would be given to his son? (1:76)
For whom was John supposed to prepare a way? How? (1:76)

Apply It

What idea from Zechariah’s song would you most like to communicate to your family this week?

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Tomorrow: Luke 2-4

Chronological, Epoch 5

Chronological Bible Study – July 15

What I Noticed Today (2 Chronicles 28; 2 Kings 16-17)

2 Chronicles 28

In verses 1-4, Ahaz became king of Judah after his father, Jotham died. He reigned 16 years (731-715 B.C.) in Jerusalem.

Note: Ahaz reigned as coregent with his father Jotham for four years.

Ahaz was an evil king who did not do right in the eyes of the Lord.
He turned completely away from the example of his father and grandfather.
Ahaz walked in the ways of the Israelites, made images for Baal worship, and even burned his own sons as offerings.

In verse 5, the Lord gave Ahaz into the hands of the Syrians (Aramites), who defeated Judah and took a number of captives to their capital city of Damascus.

In verses 6-8, the Lord also gave Ahaz into the hands Pekah, king of Israel, who killed half of Ahaz’s army, took 200,000 people hostage, and plundered the land.

In verses 9-15, a prophet in Samaria, named Oded, warned the Israelites that it was wrong to take their brothers hostage and that Israel was already facing God’s wrath.

The leaders in Israel obeyed Oded and sent the captives home to Judah.

In verses 16-18, Ahaz, now desperate, asked the king of Assyria for help in defending Judah against the Edomites and the Philistines who had attacked Judah.

Rather than helping, Tiglath-pileser, the king of Assyria came against Judah and oppressed Ahaz.

In verses 22-25, Ahaz stubbornly refused to turn to God.

Rather, he turned to the gods of the Syrians (Damascus), who had defeated him, thinking their gods were stronger than the Lord.
Ahaz desecrated the temple of the Lord, shut the doors of the temple, and made high places to worship false gods all over Judah.

In verses 26-27, Ahaz died and was buried in Jerusalem but not in the tombs of the kings. His son Hezekiah began to reign in Judah.

2 Kings 16

Ahaz began his reign in Judah.

In verses 1-9, Ahaz became king of Judah when he was 20-years old and reigned for 16-years from Jerusalem. He became king in the 17^th year of Pekah (735 B.C.) king of Israel.

Unlike previous kings of Judah, Ahaz was a bad king. He followed the evil practices of the kings of Israel and even burned his son as a sacrifice.
King Rezin of Syria (Aram) and Pekah, the king of Israel, came up against Ahaz and laid siege to Jerusalem, but they could not conquer him.
Ahaz took money from the house of the Lord and hired Tiglath-pileser III, king of Assyria, to protect him. The king of Assyria marched to Damascus, captured the city, deported its people, and put King Rezin to death.

Source: Deluxe Then and Now Maps by Rose Publishing

In verses 10-18, Ahaz went to Damascus to Syria to meet Tiglath-pileser III.

While Ahaz was in Assyria, he saw an altar and ordered Uriah the priest to build him a copy of this pagan altar.
The altar was built, and Ahaz ordered Uriah to offer sacrifices on the pagan altar in the house of the Lord.
Ahaz even stripped the bronze from the Temple water carts and sent it to Tiglath-pileser III in Assyria.

In verses 19-20, Ahaz died, and his son Hezekiah ruled in his place.

2 Kings 17

Hoshea became king in Israel.

In verses 1-6, in Ahaz king of Judah’s 12^th year, Hoshea became king in Israel (732 B.C.).

Hoshea was a bad king, doing evil in the eyes of the Lord, but not as his fathers had done.
Shalmaneser, the king of Assyria (son of Tiglath-pileser III), marched to Samaria and besieged it for three years because Hoshea had failed to pay his annual tribute.
Shalmaneser captured Samaria in Hoshea’s ninth year and took the Israelites to Assyria.

In verses 7-23, the Israelite exile occurred because the people had turned away from God.

They began to practice foreign religions in secret, then built high places, pillars, and Asherim and began offering sacrifices.
They refused to listen to the prophets and rejected God’s statutes.
They worshiped foreign idols and stubbornly refused to return to God.
They worshiped all kinds of foreign gods, including Baal.
They even burned their sons and daughters as sacrificial offerings.
Ultimately, they despised God and His commandments!

In verses 24-41, the king of Assyria brought people from other cities (Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim) and relocated them to the land of Samaria, replacing the people of Israel.

Note: Israel became a province of Assyria and was called the province of Samaria.

Because the people did not worship the Lord, the Lord sent lions among them who killed some of them.
The Assyrian leaders believed the lions came as a result of the people not knowing the requirements of the Lord.
So the king of Assyrian sent an Israelite priest to Bethel with instructions to teach the people about God.
But the people of the nation’s living in Samaria continued to worship their own gods.

Note: 2 Kings 17:24 explains how the “Samaritans” came to exist (see John 4:9). The people of Israel intermarried with people from the nations that the King of Assyria had moved into Israel. These racially mixed Jews came to be despised by full-blooded Jews.

The people of God did not worship the Lord or keep the laws and commandments He gave them. They continued in their sinful ways.

Some thoughts for additional consideration:

Ahaz was a failure because he followed the example of the wicked people who lived nearby instead of remaining faithful to God. He was defeated by Syria and Israel and resorted to buying help from a foreign nation rather than turning to God and trusting Him. He made an attempt at worship, but rather than following God’s pattern (Exodus 25:40), he modeled his altar from one he had seen in Assyria.
The people of Israel led the people of Judah away from God, as they themselves became more and more corrupt.
We all follow examples. We all model aspects of ourselves against others. The question is, are we modeling our lives against God and His standards or against sinful man?

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Tomorrow: Isaiah 13-17

New Testament in a Year

New Testament in a Year – 1 Corinthians 7

Marriage - 1 Corinthians 7:1-40

Understand It

What guiding principles about marriage does God want us to know? (7:1-40)
Why should "each man . . . have his own wife"? (7:2)
What obligations does a Christian wife have toward her husband? (7:3)
To whom does a Christian’s body belong if he or she is married? (7:4)
Under what circumstances may married partners deprive each other’s sexual needs? (7:5)
Why is it important for husbands and wives not to deprive each other’s sexual needs? (7:5)
What instruction did Paul give to the unmarried and widowed? (7:8-9)
To what has God called us? (7:15)
What is more important than whether a person is married or single? (7:17-19)
What is more important than whether a person is a slave or free? (7:20-24)
What is one advantage in remaining single? (7:28)
Why did Paul think it best to remain single? (7:28)
What perspective can help us serve God well whether married or single? (7:29-31)
What advantage do unmarried people have in ministry? (7:32-35)

Apply It

What is one step you can take this week to free yourself from concern about a mortgage, a job, a project, or some other earthly matter?
How can you use your unique experiences as a married or single person in service to God?

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Gen-Rev, Psalms

Psalms 108-118

What I Noticed Today (Psalms 108-118)

Psalm 108

Psalm 108 is a psalm of David praising the Lord for His steadfast love and faithfulness.

In verses 1-6, David praises God for his steadfast love and faithfulness. The Lord should be exalted over all the earth so that His beloved will be delivered.

In verses 7-13, David prayed for God’s help in defeating Israel’s enemies.

Psalm 109

Psalm 109 is a psalm of David praying that the Lord would avenge Israel’s enemies.

In verses 1-5, David cried out to God, praising Him and asking Him to deliver Israel from the deceitful, hateful enemies.

In verses 6-20, David cursed his enemy, asking that he be found guilty and that he be cut-off because this man had taken advantage of the poor, the needy, and the brokenhearted.

In verses 21-31, David asked the Lord for His help in delivering him because he was poor and needy, weak, and an object of scorn. David said he would rejoice when the wicked were put to shame and disgraced and would give God credit for delivering him.

Psalm 110

Psalm 110 is a prophetic psalm of David after he received an oracle from the Lord.

In verses 1-2, David reports a conversation between the Lord (Yahweh) and David’s Lord (ʾăd̠ōnay), or God the Father and the Messiah, saying that David’s Lord is sitting at the right hand of the Father.

In verses 3-4, those who will join the Messiah in battle will be holy, and the Lord will be a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.

In verses 5-7, David foretells the glorious victory of the Lord, crushing kings, and judging nations as He is lifted up.

Psalm 111

Similar to Psalm 112, in Psalm 111, the psalmist praises the Lord for his wondrous work of redemption.

In verses 1-3, the psalmist praises the Lord for His great and wondrous works.

In verses 4-9, the psalmist reviews specifics of God’s wondrous works: He is gracious and compassionate, He remembers His covenant, He is faithful, and His name is Holy and awesome.

In verse 10, the psalmist concludes that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

Psalm 112

Psalm 112 describes some of the blessings received by someone who fears the Lord.

In verse 1, the psalmist says that he who fears the Lord and delights in His law is blessed.

In verses 2-9, the psalmist describes five blessings: physical and material prosperity because he is righteous, light is given even in darkness, goodness is received in return for being generous, his faith will be unshakable, and because he provides for the poor, he will be lifted up and honored by the Lord.

In verse 10, the psalmist describes the anxiety that will fill the wicked who are about to waste away.

Psalms 113-118

Psalms 113-118 are what is known as the Hallel, a collection of songs sung at major festivals and Holy days. For example, Psalms 113-114 are sung before the Passover meal, and Psalms 115-118 are sung afterward.

Psalm 113

Psalm 113 is a call to all believers to praise God.

In verses 1-3, the psalmist calls on servants of the Lord to praise His name.

Note: Praise the Lord in Hebrew is halelû-yāh (hallelujah).

In verses 4-9, the psalmist says servants of the Lord should praise Him because of His greatness and grace.

Psalm 114

Psalm 114 celebrates the Lord’s deliverance of the people in Exodus.

In verses 1-4, the psalmist relates the power of God when God brought them out of Egypt, through the Red Sea and into Canaan.

In verses 7-8, the psalmist instructs the earth to tremble at the power of the Lord.

Psalm 115

Psalm 115 is a call for the Lord to demonstrate His sovereignty.

In verses 1-2, the psalmist speaks of the people’s unworthiness in contrast to the glory, love, and faithfulness of the Lord.

In verses 3-8, the psalmist declares the sovereignty of the Lord over idols.

In verses 9-11, the psalmist calls on the people of Israel to trust in the Lord, not in idols.

In verses 12-18, the psalmist calls on everyone to trust in the Lord because as the creator of the heaven and earth he will bless them.

Psalm 116

Psalm 116 is a personal song of thanksgiving because the Lord delivered the psalmist from certain death.

In verses 1-2, the psalmist declares his love for the Lord because the Lord has heard him.

In verses 3-11, the psalmist describes how the Lord delivered him at the point of death. He describes three lessons from the experience: believers can rest because God can remove suffering, God delivers so they can live in obedience to Him, and God can be trusted in the midst of great affliction.

In verses 12-19, the psalmist says all he can do to repay the Lord is to lift Him up in praise so that others will also hear. The lives of the servants of the Lord are precious to Him.

Psalm 117

Psalm 117 is a short invitation to people everywhere to praise the Lord.

In verses 1-2, the psalmist calls on all nations to praise the Lord because the Lord loves and is faithful to His people.

Psalm 118

Psalm 118 is a praise song of the Lord’s faithful love for His people. It is prophetic in its description of the Messiah.

In verses 1-4, the psalmist calls on Israel and others who fear the Lord to acknowledge the steadfast love of the Lord.

In verses 5-21, the psalmist describes how the Lord rescued him from distress and was his refuge in the midst of his enemies. He praises the Lord for His strength, song, and salvation. The psalmist declares thanks for God’s righteousness and sings praises for delivering him.

In verses 22-29, the psalmist declares that the Lord had taken the stone that the builders had rejected and made it the capstone of the nation. He prayed for the Lord to save the people as they acknowledged the Lord’s steadfast love of His people.

What did you notice in your study today? Feel free to visit the website and leave a question or a comment.

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Tomorrow: Psalm 119

90-Days New Testament Study

Day 14: Mark 12-14

The Parable of the Tenants - Mark 12:1-12

Understand It

Whom do the farmer, servants, and son in the parable represent? (12:1-6)
Why did the owner of the vineyard send so many servants to the tenants looking after the vineyard? (12:2-5)
How did the tenants treat the owner’s son? Why? (12:7-8)

Apply It

What can you do every day this week out of respect for God’s Word?

Paying Taxes to Caesar - Mark 12:13-17

Understand It

How did the religious leaders try to trick Jesus? (12:13-15)
What did Jesus ask the religious leaders to bring Him? Why? (12:15-17)
What did Jesus mean when He said, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s"? (12:17)

Apply It

What is a prayer you can use to give to God what belongs to Him?

Marriage at the Resurrection - Mark 12:18-27

Understand It

Who were the Sadducees, and what did they want from Jesus? (12:18)
In what way were the Sadducees "in error"? (12:24-27)
What was wrong with the Sadducees’ viewpoint? (12:24-27)

Apply It

What concrete action would you be willing to take this week to get to know the Scriptures better?

The Greatest Commandment - Mark 12:28-34

Understand It

What significant question did the teacher of the law pose to Jesus? (12:28)
How did Jesus respond to the man’s question? (12:29-31)
How did the man speaking with Jesus show that He understood God’s heart? (12:32-34)

Apply It

Who is one neighbor to whom you can show your love in a practical way this week? How?

Whose Son Is the Christ? - Mark 12:35-40

Understand It

Why did Jesus condemn the teachers of the law? (12:38-39)
What did the teachers of the law betray about themselves through their actions? (12:38-39)
What did Jesus say would happen to the teachers of the law? (12:40)

Apply It

What step can you take this week to pray, go to church, and do other spiritual devotions only out of a desire to please God?

The Widow's Offering - Mark 12:41-44

Understand It

What did the "poor widow" give to the treasury? (12:42)
Why did Jesus call His disciples when He saw the widow put in her offering? (12:43)
How did Jesus compare the actions of the wealthy people to the actions of the poor woman? (12:43-44)

Apply It

How can you ensure that your attitude and motivation is right when you give to the Lord this week?

Signs of the End of the Age - Mark 13:1-31

Understand It

What did Jesus’ disciples ask Him privately on the Mount of Olives? (13:3-4)
How did Jesus respond to His disciples’ question? (13:5-8)
What will be the greatest temptation during the "days of distress"? (13:21-23)

Apply It

What can you read or do this week to strengthen your hold on the truth about Christ?

The Day and Hour Unknown - Mark 13:32-37

Understand It

What will Jesus’ return be like? How? (13:34)
What should the "servants" do to occupy their time while they wait for the owner’s return? (13:34)
What did Jesus want us to do? (13:37)

Apply It

How can you "keep watch" in your day-to-day activities at work?

Jesus Anointed at Bethany - Mark 14:1-11

Understand It

What amazing thing did a woman do while Jesus was visiting Bethany? Where? (14:3)
What reaction did the woman’s actions get? Why? (14:4-5)
Whom did Jesus rebuke? Why? (14:6)

Apply It

What is one way you can show your devotion to Christ above all other things, people, or ambitions in your life? When?

The Lord's Supper - Mark 14:12-26

Understand It

The central emphasis of the Passover meal was traditionally the sacrificial lamb; where did Jesus place His emphasis? (14:22-24)
What important announcement did Jesus make? (14:25)
How did Jesus and the disciples conclude their Passover meal? (14:26)

Apply It

What are two or three steps you can take to prepare for the next time you celebrate the Lord’s Supper?

Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial - Mark 14:27-31

Understand It

What did Jesus reveal to His disciples? (14:27)
How did Peter respond to Christ’s words? (14:29)
What did Jesus say about Peter’s loyalty? (14:30)

Apply It

What can you do over the next week to renew and strengthen your faith in Christ?

Gethsemane - Mark 14:32-42

Understand It

What emotions was Jesus feeling? (14:33-34)
What distressed Jesus when He returned to His disciples? (14:37)
Why did the disciples have so much trouble praying with Jesus? (14:38)

Apply It

How can you support a friend or relative facing a difficult task this week?

Jesus Arrested - Mark 14:43-52

Understand It

How did Jesus respond to the sight of the armed men? (14:48-49)
Who fled the scene? When? (14:50-52)
What is significant about the fact that all of Jesus’ followers deserted Him? (14:50-52)

Apply It

What can you do now to prepare for times when your dedication to Christ is tested at work, at home, or around neighbors?

Before the Sanhedrin - Mark 14:53-65

Understand It

What did the men of the Sanhedrin want to do to Jesus? Why? (14:55)
What testimony did some witnesses bring against Jesus? (14:57-58)
What was Jesus’ response to all the accusations against Him? (14:61)

Apply It

How do you want to react the next time you are falsely accused or tricked?

Peter Disowns Jesus - Mark 14:66-72

Understand It

How did Peter’s denial of Christ happen? (14:66-72)
Who in the courtyard was curious and insistent about finding out who Jesus’ followers were? (14:66-70)
How did Peter react when he realized what he had done? (14:72)

Apply It

In what situation or context will you consciously identify with Christ publicly this week? How?

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Tomorrow: Mark 15-16, Luke 1

Chronological, Epoch 5

Chronological Bible Study – July 14

There is a short introduction available for the book of Micah. You can read it here.

Key Themes

The book of Micah is a prophetic work in the Old Testament attributed to the prophet Micah, who ministered during a time of social injustice and moral decay in both the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Micah’s message combines sharp warnings of impending judgment with promises of hope and restoration. The key themes include:

Social Justice and Injustice: A central theme in Micah is the call for social justice. Micah condemns the exploitation of the poor, the corruption of leaders, and the greed of the wealthy, who oppress the vulnerable and pervert justice for personal gain. This theme emphasizes the importance of justice, fairness, and compassion in society, highlighting that true worship of God must be reflected in ethical treatment of others.
Divine Judgment: Micah warns of the coming judgment on both Israel and Judah for their sins, particularly their idolatry, corruption, and social injustices. He prophesies that God will bring destruction upon the cities, including Samaria and Jerusalem, as a consequence of their rebellion. This theme underscores the inevitability of divine judgment when God’s people turn away from His commandments and engage in wickedness.
Hope and Restoration: Despite the severe warnings of judgment, Micah also offers a message of hope. He prophesies that after the period of judgment, God will restore a remnant of His people. This restoration will include the rebuilding of Jerusalem, the reestablishment of peace, and the coming of a future ruler from Bethlehem, who will shepherd God’s people in righteousness. This theme highlights God’s faithfulness and the promise of renewal for those who repent and turn back to Him.
The Coming Messiah: Micah contains one of the most famous messianic prophecies in the Old Testament, foretelling the birth of a ruler from Bethlehem who will lead Israel and bring peace. This theme points to the future hope of a Savior who will establish God’s kingdom and bring justice and peace to the world, a prophecy that Christians believe is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
True Worship and Righteous Living: Micah challenges the people’s superficial religious practices, emphasizing that God desires not just ritual observance but a life characterized by justice, mercy, and humility. The famous verse, Micah 6:8, encapsulates this theme: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This theme highlights that true devotion to God is expressed in righteous living and ethical behavior.
God’s Sovereignty and Universal Rule: Micah affirms God’s sovereignty over all nations and His ultimate plan to establish His rule over the entire earth. The prophet envisions a time when all nations will come to worship the Lord in Jerusalem, and God’s peace will prevail. This theme reflects the belief in God’s universal reign and the hope that His justice and righteousness will one day be recognized by all people.

The book of Micah delivers a powerful message of both judgment and hope, calling for social justice, true worship, and faithfulness to God. It challenges the people to reflect on their lives, repent from their sins, and embrace the promise of restoration and peace. Through its themes of justice, hope, and the coming Messiah, Micah offers timeless insights into God’s expectations for His people and His ultimate plan for redemption.

What I Noticed Today (Micah)

Micah 1-2

Micah 1-2 is the first of three messages Micah delivered. It focused on the judgment coming to the people of Israel and Judah.

Micah 1

In verse 1, the word of the Lord came to Micah in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (three kings in Judah) but the prophecy was directed to Samaria (the capital of Israel, the northern kingdom) and Jerusalem (the capital of Judah, the southern kingdom).

In verses 2-7, Micah calls on all the people to hear the charges the Lord is bringing against them. The Lord is bringing His judgment against the people of Judah and Israel because of their sins.

In verses 8-16, Micah laments the judgment is coming to Samaria but lists a number of towns in Judah as a warning that the judgment would also reach them because they had transgressed in the same way as Israel (v. 13). They would mourn (shave their heads) because even their children would be sent into exile.

Micah 2

In verses 1-5, Micah pronounces a woe on those who stay awake thinking up evil things and then do them the next day. They covet others property and steal their homes and inheritances. Because of this, the Lord will bring disaster, and they will no longer walk haughtily but will be ruined with no one to help them.

In verses 6-11, Micah continues by calling out the false prophets who enrich themselves with their lies. He warns that God judges and will bless those who walk uprightly. Because of this, he warns them to leave because of the uncleanness. But they would rather believe the lies of the false prophet.

In verses 12-13, Micah assures them that in the future a remnant will be brought together, their king will pass before them, and the Lord will be their head (this prophecy will be fulfilled in Christ’s Millennial reign).

Micah 3-5

Micah 3-5 is the second of three messages Micah delivered. It focuses on the shortcomings of the leaders, priests, and prophets, and the blessings that will follow the judgment.

Micah 3

In verses 1-4, Micah calls on the leaders of Israel and Judah to hear the message from the Lord. They should know justice, but they oppress the people. They hated good and loved evil. They will cry out to God, but He will not answer them (this speaks of the time when they are in exile).

In verses 5-8, Micah calls out the prophets once again for leading the people astray, making them think there was peace when, in fact, judgment was coming. The prophets, the seers, and the diviners would all be disgraced and humiliated because God would hide His face from them. But, says Micah, he is filled with the power of the Spirit of the Lord to pronounce justice and declare the sins of Israel.

In verses 9-12, Micah calls on the leaders and rulers to hear him and listen to his warning. They take bribes, they preach for a price, and the prophets prophesy for money. The leaders, priests, and prophets were all more concerned about earthly gain than following God. Because of this, Zion (Jerusalem) would be overturned in the coming judgment.

Micah 4

In verses 1-5, Micah describes the latter days (the Millennial reign of Christ) when the temple will be established, and people will come to worship the Lord and learn His ways. God will judge between the nations, and there will be peace. Every man will sit under his own vine and fig tree without fear. The nation of Israel will walk in the name of the Lord forever.

In verses 6-7, in that day (the beginning of the Millennium), the Lord will gather the remnant from all over the world, and He will reign over them Jerusalem forever. The strong were carried away into exile, but the lame will be returned, and the Lord will reign over them forever

In verses 8-10, continuing from verse 7, Micah says the people of God will watch over the flock and Jerusalem will have dominion.

In verses 9-13, Micah announces four prophecies that would occur before the Millennial kingdom and the fifth prophecy in Micah 5:1:

Israel will be exiled to Babylon (vv. 9-10a).
Israel will be rescued from Babylon (v. 10b).
Israel will have many nations assembled against her (vv. 11-12)
Israel will rise up and conquer her oppressors (v. 13).

Micah 5

In verse 1, Micah announces a fifth prophecy that would occur before the Millennial kingdom: a siege will be laid against Jerusalem, and the ruler will be struck on the cheek with a rod (probably Zedekiah. 2 Kings 25:1-7).

In verses 2-6, Micah provides a Messianic prophecy describing the birth of Jesus. He says the ruler of Israel will come from Bethlehem Ephrathah (an older name for Bethlehem).

Micah 6-7

Micah 6-7 is the third of three messages Micah delivered. The focus is a summary of their sins and blessings.

Micah 6

In verses 1-5, a courtroom is in view as the Lord delivers an indictment against the Israelites and calls on them to make their case before witnesses. The Lord asks what have I done to you. He answers: I saved you from Egypt and from Balak king of Moab. I gave you Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. I helped throughout the land from Shittim to Gilgal. All this so that they would know He is the Lord.

In verses 6-8, Micah answers the Lord on behalf of the people of Israel. Micah asks how he can come before the Lord. Is it with burnt offerings? With calves to be sacrificed? How about thousands of rams and rivers of oil? How about my first-born son? No, says Micah to the nation of Israel. What the Lord requires is that we do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.

Note: Micah is not making light of the sacrificial system that God had established. Rather, he is pointing out that no matter how many sacrifices you make in outward appearances of worship, what really matters is the condition of one’s heart toward God.

In verses 9-12, Micah warns the people of Judah to listen to the voice of the Lord and heed the rod (instrument of punishment). The people have sinned in their wickedness by using dishonest scales and deceitful weights; they were violent, and they lie and are deceitful.

In verses 13-16, because of these sins (verses 10-12) God’s judgment would come and have already begun: they will not have enough to eat, what you put away will not preserve, you will sow but not reap, tread olives but have none to anoint yourselves, and you will tread grapes but have no wine to drink. All this because they had worshiped Baal during Omri and Ahab’s reign.

Note: Micah is trying to get the attention of the people of Judah and especially those in Jerusalem to realize that what had happened to Israel in the north would also happen to them if they did not repent. The people of Jerusalem thought they were safe in their walled city on a hill because they also had the temple of God. But they were not following God’s Law, had followed other foreign gods, and rejected the warning that came from God’s messengers, the prophets.

Micah 7

In verses 1-6, Micah announces a woe. He feels his ministry is no longer bearing fruit; the Godly have perished, and there are no righteous men left. The people are focused on doing evil. The princes and judges ask for bribes. The best and most upright are like a briar or thorn hedge (a thorn hedge would injure and entangle anyone who tried to pass through). The warnings of the watchmen (God’s true prophets) would come true, and judgment would come. People had become so wicked they could trust no one; not neighbors, or even family members. In fact, the members of one’s own family had become each other’s enemies.

In verses 7-10, Micah speaks in the first person as a representative of the nation of Israel. Micah expressed his confidence in the Lord. He will wait for God who saves because he knows God will hear him. The enemy should not gloat over Israel’s defeat. Continuing to speak on behalf of Israel he said: He would rise after he falls. The Lord will be his light in the darkness. He will bear the punishment because he had sinned until the Lord brings him forth. Then, the enemy will know that the Lord is God.

In verses 11-13, in that day (the Millennium), Jerusalem will rebuild her walls and expand her boundaries. People who were enemies as well as countries around the world (from seas to sea and mountain to mountain) will come to Jerusalem to worship. Before this happens, the earth will be judged because of the sins of the people; the earth will be a desolate place.

In verses 14-17, Micah prays to the Lord to shepherd His flocks, to restore them to their land like when He brought them out of Egypt and blessed them with prosperity. When other nations see this, they will be ashamed of all their power. They will tremble before the Lord and His power.

In verses 18-20, Micah praises God, expressing confidence that God will bring about what He has promised. God will pardon the iniquities of His remnant. He will show his faithfulness and love just as He promised to their forefathers.

All the notes for the book of Micah have been compiled into a single pdf document. You can download it by clicking here.

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 28; 2 Kings 16-17

New Testament in a Year

New Testament in a Year – 1 Corinthians 6

Lawsuits Among Believers - 1 Corinthians 6:1-11

Understand It

Why was Paul disturbed by the practice of Christians bringing their disputes before non-Christians? (6:1-6)
Who will judge the world? (6:2)
By what authority will Christians judge angels? (6:3)
Who is qualified to serve as a judge for disputes among Christians? (6:4)
What did the Corinthians need to do when they were wronged by other Christians? (6:7)
How were the Corinthian Christians settling disputes with each other? (6:7-8)
What did the fact that the Corinthians were suing each other prove about them? (6:7-10)
How were the Corinthians deceived in their beliefs? (6:9)
Who will not inherit the kingdom of God? (6:9-10)
What were some of the Corinthians before they were saved? (6:11)
What had changed the Corinthians’ standing before God? (6:11)
How should the knowledge of Jesus’ redemptive work motivate you to abandon sin in your life?

Apply It

What do you want to remember the next time you are wronged by another Christian?
What particular action or attitude can help you forgive others when you are wronged?

Sexual Immorality - 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

Understand It

What did Paul mean by saying, "I will not be mastered by anything"? (6:12)
Why should we abstain from sex outside of marriage? (6:12-20)
What value does God place on our bodies? (6:12-20)
What will God destroy? Why? (6:13)
For what are our bodies meant? (6:13)
What promise is given to Christians because God raised Jesus from the dead? (6:14)
What makes our bodies special? (6:15)
What’s wrong with sex outside of marriage? (6:15-16)
Why is it not possible to be one with both Christ and a prostitute? (6:15-17)
What does it mean to be one with Christ in spirit? (6:17)
How is sexual immorality different from other sins? (6:18)
How are Christians’ bodies unique? (6:19-20)

Apply It

In what way can you remind yourself this week that you were bought at a price and are God’s temple?
In what settings or situations should you take precautions against sexual immorality? How?

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Gen-Rev, Psalms

Psalms 106-107

What I Noticed Today (Psalms 106-107)

Psalm 106

Psalm 106 is a confessional psalm in which the psalmist recounts Israel’s rebellion against God and prays that God will still deliver the people.

In verses 1-5, the psalmist praises God for His love and power.

In verses 6-46, the psalmist began by confessing that Israel had sinned as their fathers had sinned. He then recounts the rebellion of the people at the Red Sea (vv. 7-12), the sins of the people as God led them to the Promised Land (vv. 13-33), and their sin in not destroying the inhabitants of the Promised Land as God had commanded them (vv. 34-46).

In verses 47-48, the psalmist prays the God will once again save the people by gathering them together from the nations so that they could once again give thanks and praise God.

Book 5

There are 44 psalms in Book 5; 15 written by David, one by Solomon, and 28 that are anonymous.

Psalm 107

Psalm 107 is a psalm calling on the redeemed of the Lord to praise him for delivering the people.

In verses 1-3, the psalmist calls on the people to thank God for his steadfast love, especially those the Lord had redeemed.

In verses 4-32, the psalmist gives four examples of how the Lord delivered the people:

In verses 4-9, the Lord delivered some from their wandering in the wilderness.
In verses 10-16, the Lord delivered some who were prisoners.
In verses 17-22, the Lord delivered some who were sick and near death.
In verses 23-32, the Lord delivered some who were sailors from the storms on the seas.

In verses 33-43, the psalmist calls on the people to praise the Lord for His sovereignty on governing the world. He concludes saying it is the wise man who considers what the Lord has done, praise Him for His steadfast love.

What did you notice in your study today? Feel free to visit the website and leave a question or a comment.

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Tomorrow: Psalms 108-118

90-Days New Testament Study

Day 13: Mark 9-11

The Transfiguration - Mark 9:2-13

Understand It

What happened to Jesus on the mountain? (9:3)
What did God say to the disciples? (9:7)
What did God want the disciples to do? (9:7)

Apply It

What can you do over the next week to become more sensitive to God’s voice (whether from His Word or His Spirit)?

The Healing of a Boy With an Evil Spirit - Mark 9:14-32

Understand It

Why were the disciples unable to cast the demon out of the boy? (9:19)
How did Jesus feel at this point? (9:19)
How were prayer and faith related in this situation? (9:22-23)

Apply It

About what in your life will you pray every day this week? When?

Who Is the Greatest? - Mark 9:33-37

Understand It

How did Jesus get His disciples’ attention? (9:33-34)
How did Jesus explain what it means to be great? (9:35)
How did Jesus illustrate His point? (9:36)

Apply It

What is one concrete way you can serve another person this week?

Whoever Is Not Against Us Is for Us - Mark 9:38-41

Understand It

What issue concerned the disciples? (9:38)
What attitudes did the disciples have in this situation? (9:38)
How did Jesus respond to the disciples’ question? (9:40)

Apply It

What can you do to support someone who does good and is "not against you"?

Causing to Sin - Mark 9:42-50

Understand It

What was Jesus’ attitude toward sin? (9:43-47)
Why did Jesus use extreme examples in this context? (9:43-48)
When Jesus talked about "salt," to what exactly was He referring? (9:50)

Apply It

What concrete action can you take this week to avoid a sin that you have struggled with in the recent past?

Divorce - Mark 10:1-12

Understand It

Why did the Pharisees go to see Jesus? (10:2)
How did Jesus explain Moses’ instructions? (10:5)
What was God’s original plan for marriage before sin entered the picture? (10:6-9)

Apply It

For what couple can you pray every day this week?

The Little Children and Jesus - Mark 10:13-16

Understand It

How was Jesus different from the disciples? (10:13-16)
What did Jesus want His disciples to do? (10:14)
How did Jesus treat the children He met? (10:16)

Apply It

In what concrete way can you depend on God in your day-to-day affairs?

The Rich Young Man - Mark 10:17-31

Understand It

What did the man want Jesus to explain to him? (10:17)
How did Jesus explain the way to inherit eternal life? (10:19-21)
Why could the man not obey Christ’s instructions? (10:22)

Apply It

What can you sell or give away in the near future to reflect a concern for God’s kingdom over things?

Jesus Again Predicts His Death - Mark 10:32-34

Understand It

Why was there such a range of strong emotions on this trip? (10:32)
What important news did Jesus tell the Twelve once again about what would happen to Him? (10:32-33)
How did Jesus say He would die? (10:33-34)

Apply It

What is one difficult situation that you need Jesus to lead you through this upcoming week?

The Request of James and John - Mark 10:35-45

Understand It

What did James and John want from Jesus? (10:37)
How did Jesus explain to James and John the impossibility of granting what they had requested? (10:39-40)
How did the other disciples react to James and John’s request? (10:41)

Apply It

What specific act of service could you do this week for someone else?

Blind Bartimaeus Receives His Sight - Mark 10:46-52

Understand It

Why did the people rebuke the blind man? (10:48)
How did the blind man respond to the criticism from the crowd? (10:48)
How did the crowds of people treat Bartimaeus after they found out Jesus had called for him? (10:49)

Apply It

What is one request that you will commit yourself to pray for regularly this week?

The Triumphal Entry - Mark 11:1-11

Understand It

What did Jesus ask the disciples to do? (11:2-3)
How did the disciples’ experience match with what Jesus said? (11:4-7)
Why did the people spread cloaks and branches on the road for Jesus? (11:8-10)

Apply It

How should you react the next time a situation arises that you don’t understand?

Jesus Clears the Temple - Mark 11:12-19

Understand It

Why did the fig tree have no fruit? (11:13)
What did Jesus do to the fig tree? Why? (11:13-14)
What do both the cursing of the fig tree and the cleansing of the temple tell us about Jesus’ attitude toward the people of Israel? (11:13-17)

Apply It

What specific steps can you take this week to concentrate on a weak area of your spiritual life, aiming to bear fruit for the Lord?

The Withered Fig Tree - Mark 11:20-26

Understand It

How did Jesus use a seemingly insignificant event as an opportunity to teach the disciples? (11:22)
On what do answers to prayer depend? (11:22-25)
How can holding a grudge affect the way God answers prayer? (11:25)

Apply It

What can you do today to let go of a grudge or feeling of offense?

The Authority of Jesus Questioned - Mark 11:27-33

Understand It

Who confronted Jesus? Why? (11:27-28)
How did Jesus answer the challenge put to Him? (11:29-33)
How did Jesus silence His critics? (11:33)

Apply It

What specific steps can you take this week to obey God’s authority in one area of your life?

Prayer Request? It is our honor to pray for you. You may write to us with your prayer requests at prayer@biblestudydaily.org.

Tomorrow: Mark 12-14

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