Welcome to Day 2642 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2642 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 69:16-21 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2642

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2642 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, today we continue our deep dive into the raw, emotional depths of Psalm 69 in the New Living Translation.

In our previous treks, we’ve joined the psalmist in his desperate cry for help, feeling overwhelmed by literal and metaphorical floods. We’ve seen his anguish over unjust accusations and the profound pain of being mocked for his sincere devotion to God, even by his own family and the lowest members of society. Now, as we delve into verses 16 through 21, the psalmist intensifies his plea for divine compassion and vividly describes the cruel abandonment and bitter rejection he experiences in his suffering.

This section is particularly poignant, capturing the essence of feeling utterly alone in a sea of hostility, desperately longing for God’s presence and comfort. While steeped in the ancient Israelite experience of shame and ostracization, these verses also carry a prophetic weight, foreshadowing the ultimate suffering and rejection of the Messiah. For our purposes today, we’ll focus on the psalmist’s immediate human anguish and his appeal to God’s merciful character.

So, let’s open our hearts to these words of desperate appeal.

(Reads Psalm 69:16-18 NLT)

Answer me, Lord, for your unfailing love is good. In your great compassion, turn to me. Don’t turn away from me, for I am in distress. Answer me quickly, for I am in trouble. Come and rescue me! Save me from all my enemies.

Guthrie Chamberlain: The psalmist’s plea begins with an urgent, direct appeal to God’s character: “Answer me, Lord, for your unfailing love is good. In your great compassion, turn to me.” Having laid bare the depth of his suffering and the injustice he faces, he doesn’t appeal to his own merit, but solely to God’s inherent goodness and mercy. “Unfailing love” (hesed) is that steadfast, covenant-keeping love, loyal and true, even when circumstances seem to contradict it. “Great compassion” speaks to God’s deep empathy and pity for those in distress. The psalmist is essentially saying, “God, because of who You are – because of Your good, unfailing love and Your great compassion – You must respond to me.”

This appeal to God’s nature is a powerful lesson in prayer for us. When we feel overwhelmed, instead of focusing solely on the problem, we can anchor our prayers in the unchanging character of God – His love, His mercy, His power, His faithfulness.

The urgency of his situation is palpable: “Don’t turn away from me, for I am in distress. Answer me quickly, for I am in trouble.” To have God “turn away” would be the ultimate abandonment, a sign of divine displeasure or indifference. The psalmist desperately fears this. His distress is acute, his trouble immediate. He isn’t asking for a leisurely response; he needs God to act now. This urgency highlights the direness of his situation, where every moment feels critical, and delay could mean utter ruin.

He then combines his plea for attention with a request for action: “Come and rescue me! Save me from all my enemies.” This is a desperate cry for God to draw near to him personally, to step into his dire circumstances, and to deliver him from the multitude of adversaries who are causing him such anguish. This isn’t a theological debate; it’s a gut-wrenching cry for immediate, tangible intervention from the only One capable of providing it.

Imagine a child lost and terrified, calling out to a parent. Their cry is urgent, their appeal is to the parent’s love and ability to help, and their fear of being ignored is overwhelming. The psalmist’s prayer carries that same raw, primal intensity.

Now, let’s move to verses 19 through 21, where the psalmist vividly describes the extent of his humiliation and the bitter, uncompassionate treatment he receives from others.

(Reads Psalm 69:19-21 NLT)

You know the scorn, disgrace, and dishonor I endure. You see all my enemies and what they are doing to me. Their insults have broken my heart, and I am in despair. If only someone would show pity; if only someone would give me comfort! But instead, they give me poison for food; they offer me sour wine for my thirst.

Guthrie Chamberlain: The psalmist reiterates his trust in God’s omniscience, a source of both comfort and a basis for his plea: “You know the scorn, disgrace, and dishonor I endure. You see all my enemies and what they are doing to me.” He knows that God is fully aware of his suffering. This isn’t just a general awareness; it’s a deep, intimate knowledge of every insult, every act of shaming, every dishonorable treatment he has experienced. And God sees not only the what but also the who – “all my enemies and what they are doing to me.” This certainty that God sees everything, even when no human does, is a crucial anchor in his storm of distress.

The emotional impact of this relentless onslaught is devastating: “Their insults have broken my heart, and I am in despair.” The word “broken heart” speaks to profound emotional pain, a crushing blow to his spirit. This is more than just feeling sad; it’s a deep, spiritual wound, a sense of hopelessness. The constant mockery, the public humiliation, the unjust accusations, and the betrayal by his own family have taken an unbearable toll. His spirit is utterly crushed.

In this state of utter despair, the psalmist voices a desperate longing for human sympathy and comfort: “If only someone would show pity; if only someone would give me comfort!” This is a universal human cry. When we are suffering intensely, we long for a compassionate presence, a kind word, a gesture of comfort. The psalmist’s plea here is not for grand deliverance, but for simple human kindness, for someone to acknowledge his pain and offer a measure of solace.

But the response he receives is the very antithesis of compassion. Instead of pity, instead of comfort, he experiences profound cruelty: “But instead, they give me poison for food; they offer me sour wine for my thirst.” This is one of the most chilling and famous verses of the psalm, with its powerful Messianic overtones.

In the ancient world, to offer someone food and drink was an act of hospitality, a sign of welcome and care. But here, instead of nourishment for his hunger, he is given “poison” or “gall” (a bitter, toxic herb). Instead of refreshing water for his thirst, he is offered “sour wine” or vinegar (diluted wine, but here implied as bitter and unwelcome). This is not just a denial of comfort; it’s an active act of malice and mockery. They are intensifying his suffering by offering him substances that bring further pain and bitterness, rather than relief. It’s a complete dehumanization, a deliberate act of cruelty to inflict maximum suffering.

This image profoundly foreshadows the suffering of Jesus on the cross, who was offered sour wine (vinegar) in His thirst (Matthew 27:34, 48; Mark 15:23; John 19:28-30). This connection highlights the shared experience of deep, undeserved suffering and cruel mockery experienced by both the psalmist and ultimately, by the Messiah. The bitterness of the drink mirrors the bitterness of the betrayal and rejection.

The psalmist’s ordeal is not just physical; it’s psychological, emotional, and spiritual. He is suffering from relentless scorn, a broken heart, and a desperate loneliness, compounded by the active cruelty of those around him. He is thirsty for compassion, but they offer him bitterness.

What profound wisdom can we draw from these verses for our Wisdom-Trek today?

Firstly, these verses remind us that God is fully aware of our suffering, even the hidden pain of scorn and a broken heart. When we feel unseen or unheard by others, we can rest assured that God knows every insult, every tear, and every injustice we endure.

Secondly, the psalmist’s persistent appeal to God’s “unfailing love” and “great compassion” is a powerful model for our own prayers in distress. Even when we feel utterly abandoned by humanity, God’s character remains our anchor. We can boldly approach Him, not on the basis of our merit, but on the certainty of His limitless love and mercy.

Thirdly, this passage validates the pain of loneliness and abandonment, especially when we are suffering. It highlights the deep human need for empathy and comfort. It also challenges us to be the people who do offer comfort and pity to those in distress, rather than adding to their pain.

Finally, the cruel acts of rejection and the bitter provision serve as a stark reminder of the world’s capacity for malice, particularly towards those who align themselves with God. It also points us to the ultimate suffering of Christ, who truly drank the cup of bitterness for our sake. In our own moments of profound suffering, when we feel abandoned and given only bitterness, we can look to the one who endured it all, and find solace in His shared experience and ultimate victory.

Let us cling to God’s unfailing love and great compassion, knowing that He sees our scorn, hears our cries, and is the ultimate source of comfort and rescue, even when the world offers us only a cup of bitterness.

(Outro Music: Upbeat, adventurous theme fades in)

Guthrie Chamberlain: Thank you for joining me on this deeply moving trek through Psalm 69:16-21. I trust that this exploration of desperate appeal and profound suffering has given you a renewed sense of God’s compassionate presence in your own moments of need. Join me again next time as we continue to seek and apply the timeless truths of God’s Word.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

Welcome to Day 2641 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – “Constantine, Conspiracy, and the Canon” –  I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible.

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2641

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2641 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

 

Today is the 58^th lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God’s redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it’s also a book that seems strange to us. While God’s Word was written for us, it wasn’t written to us. Today’s lesson is: “Constantine, Conspiracy, and the Canon.”

Dan Brown’s best-selling conspiratorial thriller The Da Vinci Code seems like ancient history now. At its peak of popularity, the novel set records both for sales and for irritating scholars with its view that Jesus and the 12 apostles held to gnostic heresies. The book’s bizarre plot focuses on Jesus’ bloodline extending through a child born by Mary Magdalene. Within that narrative. Brown asserts that the New Testament canon was determined by the Roman Emperor Constantine—who was not friendly to gnostic Christianity—at a time much later (fourth century AD) than any New Testament scholar would endorse. Unfortunately, this myth has since taken on a life of its own.

The notion that Constantine decided which books should constitute the New Testament springs from the ancient Life of Constantine by Eusebius of Caesarea (AD 263-339). Eusebius reports that in a letter written in AD 331, the emperor instructed him to

… order fifty copies of the sacred Scriptures, the provision and use of which you know to be most needful for the instruction of the Church, to be written on prepared parchment in a legible manner, and in a convenient, portable form, by professional transcribers thoroughly practised in their art.

This same Constantine had earlier convened the Council of Nicea (AD 325), famous for its focus on the full deity of Christ against Arianism, which taught that Jesus was a created being. Brown carelessly conflated the two events in The Da Vinci Code to put forth the preposterous idea that Constantine had decided at Nicea which books belonged in the New Testament. But can we be sure this didn’t happen? And if not, what exactly did Constantine demand in this letter?

We can be certain that the Council of Nicea did not determine the books of the New Testament at Constantine’s request. The date of Eusebius’ correspondence tells us that Nicea did not consider the issue of the canon. Today, anyone can read the 20 decisions rendered at Nicea (coincidentally called “canons”).- None of them concerns the New Testament Scriptures. In addition, accounts of what happened at Nicea were described by several early church historians and theologians who lived at the time of the event or shortly thereafter. Their testimony is unanimous in opposition to the idea that Constantine determined the books of the New Testament.

So what did Constantine want? During the first several centuries of the early church, the issue of which books were to be considered sacred and authoritative was uncertain. Several early lists of sacred books have been recovered, as have records of rejected books. Constantine’s order brought the problem to a point of decision. Once the emperor commanded copies of the sacred books to be distributed, early church leaders were forced to produce the item that needed to be copied. The result was a minimalist consensus canon—books considered authoritative by the vast majority of Christian leaders throughout the empire. Books regularly disputed or already rejected were thus set aside in faith that the Holy Spirit had successfully enlightened His believing Church to reach consensus. We hold that consensus New Testament in our hands today.

The lessons that make up Theology Thursday on the Wisdom-Trek Podcast for the next couple of years will satisfy the statement, “I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible.” I trust you’ll enjoy them—and, of course, not be bored.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Day 2640 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2640 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 69:9-15 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2640

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2640 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we continue our trek through the turbulent waters of Psalm 69 in the New Living Translation.

In our last trek, we entered the raw, desperate cry of the psalmist, who felt like he was drowning in troubles, overwhelmed by enemies, and unjustly accused. We witnessed his exhaustion, his tears, and his profound sense of betrayal, even by his own family. As we continue today, the psalmist reveals an even deeper layer to his suffering: his fervent devotion to God has become the very fuel for the scorn and mockery he endures.

This particular section of Psalm 69 resonates deeply with the experiences of those who choose to live wholeheartedly for God, often encountering misunderstanding, ridicule, and even hostility from the world around them. For the ancient Israelite, public shame and social ostracization were profoundly painful. This psalm gives voice to that specific agony, while simultaneously offering a powerful example of persistent prayer even when faced with unimaginable contempt.

So, open your hearts and minds as we immerse ourselves in Psalm 69, verses 9 through 15.

(Reads Psalm 69:9-12 NLT)

For passion for your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me. When I weep and humble myself with fasting, they scoff at me. When I wear sackcloth to show my sorrow, they make jokes about me. I am the favorite topic of town gossips, and drunkards sing taunts about me.

Guthrie Chamberlain: The psalmist immediately identifies the core reason for his suffering: “For passion for your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” This is a powerful declaration of his fervent devotion to God and God’s dwelling place, likely referring to the Temple in Jerusalem. “Passion” or “zeal” for God’s house speaks to an intense, consuming commitment to God’s presence, His worship, and His honor. This kind of zeal means that God’s concerns become one’s own.

In the ancient Israelite context, “God’s house” was the center of their spiritual life. To have zeal for it meant a deep love for God’s commandments, His presence, and His glory. This devotion wasn’t passive; it was active, causing the psalmist to prioritize God’s honor above his own comfort or reputation. The consequence? The “insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” Because he identifies so strongly with God and His honor, the contempt directed at God is effectively aimed at him. He is bearing the reproach of God. This is a profound foreshadowing of Christ, for whom zeal for His Father’s house would indeed consume Him (John 2:17).

The psalmist then details how his pious acts of devotion, intended to express humility and sorrow before God, have become targets of mockery: “When I weep and humble myself with fasting, they scoff at me. When I wear sackcloth to show my sorrow, they make jokes about me.”

Fasting and wearing sackcloth were common practices in ancient Israel to express repentance, deep sorrow, or fervent prayer in times of distress. They were public displays of humility, self-denial, and a plea for God’s mercy. Yet, instead of evoking sympathy or respect, these sincere acts of piety from the psalmist are met with derision. His enemies “scoff” and “make jokes” about him. This is particularly cruel – taking someone’s genuine, heart-felt religious expression and turning it into an object of ridicule. It’s an attack on his very faith and integrity.

Imagine someone in deep personal grief, expressing their sorrow in a culturally recognized way, only to be met with laughter and mocking. That’s the level of contempt the psalmist is enduring. This scorn highlights the profound spiritual conflict at play: his devotion to God makes him an enemy of those who despise God.

The extent of his humiliation is further revealed in verse 12: “I am the favorite topic of town gossips, and drunkards sing taunts about me.” In ancient society, the city gate was where legal proceedings happened, where elders gathered, and where public discourse took place. To be the “favorite topic of town gossips” implies that his reputation has been utterly destroyed; he’s the subject of malicious chatter in the most public of places, losing all social standing and respect.

And if that wasn’t enough, even “drunkards sing taunts about me.” Drunkards in ancient Israel were often associated with low social status, moral depravity, and disrespect for proper conduct. For such individuals to mock and compose songs of derision about the psalmist signifies the absolute bottom of social contempt. When even the most disreputable elements of society feel free to openly ridicule you, your public humiliation is complete. This is the ultimate degradation – being mocked by those who have no respect for anything, including common decency. The psalmist has truly become an object of scorn to everyone.

This suffering, as the psalmist noted, is “for God’s sake.” His faithfulness, his zeal, and his personal piety have made him a target, causing him immense public shame and personal anguish.

Now, let’s turn to the psalmist’s urgent cry for deliverance, despite this profound suffering.

(Reads Psalm 69:13-15 NLT)

But I keep praying to you, Lord, hoping for your answer. In your unfailing love, O God, answer me with your salvation! Pull me out of the mud; don’t let me sink any deeper! Save me from those who hate me, and rescue me from the deep waters. Don’t let the floods overwhelm me or the depths swallow me. Don’t let the pit of death devour me.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Despite the relentless mockery, the public humiliation, and the profound pain, the psalmist’s core identity as a man of prayer remains unshaken: “But I keep praying to you, Lord, hoping for your answer.” This is a powerful declaration of persistent faith in the face of overwhelming adversity. Even when his voice is hoarse and his eyes are red from weeping, even when his deepest devotion is met with scorn, he does not abandon his prayer. He continues to pray, driven by hope and expectation of God’s intervention.

He then specifies the timing of his prayer: “hoping for your answer. In your unfailing love, O God, answer me with your salvation!” He appeals to God’s “unfailing love” (hesed), that steadfast, loyal, covenant-keeping love that is a hallmark of God’s character. It’s not his own merit or righteousness that he appeals to, but God’s intrinsic goodness and faithfulness. His ultimate plea is for God’s “salvation” – comprehensive deliverance from all his troubles.

The psalmist then returns to the vivid water imagery from the beginning of the psalm, intensifying his desperate plea for rescue: “Pull me out of the mud; don’t let me sink any deeper! Save me from those who hate me, and rescue me from the deep waters.” The “mud” represents the clinging, inescapable circumstances he finds himself in, the place where he has no foothold. He fears sinking “any deeper,” indicating a continuous worsening of his situation. He reiterates his need to be saved from his hateful enemies and rescued from the “deep waters” that threaten to drown him.

The climax of this desperate plea comes in verse 15, adding another layer of peril: “Don’t let the floods overwhelm me or the depths swallow me. Don’t let the pit of death devour me.” The “floods” represent the torrents of trouble, the relentless waves of affliction. The “depths” again symbolize the overwhelming, suffocating nature of his crisis. And finally, the ultimate fear: “Don’t let the pit of death devour me.” The “pit” (Hebrew: shaḥat) is often a metaphor for the grave or the underworld, representing complete destruction and oblivion. The psalmist is crying out for preservation of his life, a rescue from the brink of death itself.

This section vividly portrays a soul pushed to its absolute limits, yet clinging to God with persistent prayer, appealing to His unfailing love for salvation. The psalmist’s suffering is compounded by the fact that his devotion to God is the very cause of his public humiliation.

What profound wisdom can we draw from these verses for our own Wisdom-Trek?

Firstly, zeal for God can indeed come at a cost. When we live wholeheartedly for God, we may encounter misunderstanding, mockery, or even hostility from those who do not share our passion. This psalm reminds us that such reproach is a shared experience, even for those deeply devoted to God.

Secondly, the psalm validates the pain of public humiliation and social ostracization, especially when it stems from our faith. It allows us to acknowledge that hurt and bring it honestly before God.

Thirdly, it provides a powerful example of persistent prayer in the face of overwhelming odds. Even when our physical and emotional resources are depleted, and even when our prayers seem to be met with ridicule, we are called to keep praying, appealing to God’s unfailing love. Our hope must remain fixed on God’s salvation, no matter how deep the mire or how high the floodwaters.

Finally, it reminds us that God is the only One who can truly rescue us from the depths of despair, from the overwhelming floods of life, and ultimately, from the pit of death itself. Our cry for help, even when we are exhausted from crying, is heard by the God of unfailing love.

Let this psalmist’s honest and persistent lament be an encouragement to you today. If you feel consumed by troubles, mocked for your devotion, or on the brink of being overwhelmed, remember: keep praying. Your God of unfailing love hears, and He is the God of salvation.

(Outro Music: Upbeat, adventurous theme fades in)

Guthrie Chamberlain: Thank you for joining me on this deeply moving trek through Psalm 69:9-15. I trust that this exploration of enduring faith amidst profound suffering has resonated with your own journey and encouraged you to persist in prayer. Join me again next time as we continue to seek and apply the timeless truths of God’s Word.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

Welcome to Day 2639 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2639 – New Testament Orientation – The Four Gospels – Four Witnesses to the King

Putnam Church Message – 05/25/2025

Sermon Series: New Testament Orientation

Message 5: The Four Gospels

 

Last week, we explored how Jesus appears in history outside the Bible. Our core verses were: Matthew 25:31-36  

This week is Sermon: 5 of 12 Title: The Four Gospels – Four Witnesses to the King Core Verses: Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT)

(Opening Prayer)

Heavenly Father, we gather today, much like those early followers of Jesus gathered centuries ago, to learn more about the one you sent into the world. We thank you for the collection of sacred writings we hold – this “biblos,” this library of books that tells your story and your plan. As we open the pages that tell the story of Jesus, the four Gospels, we pray for your Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds. Help us to hear these accounts not just as ancient history, but as living witnesses to your Son. Grant us eyes to see Him through the unique perspectives of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. May their words draw us closer to Jesus, deepening our faith and empowering us for the mission He has given us. In His name, we pray, Amen.

(Introduction) We continue our journey through the New Testament with our fifth message, which turns our attention to the heart of this collection of writings: the Four Gospels.

The word Bible, its original name, “biblos,” simply means “book” or “scroll.” It wasn’t initially a religious term, but it became the name for this unique collection of divine writings over time. The New Testament is a collection, not a single, continuous narrative written by one hand at one time, but a library. We have letters penned by apostles like Paul, a historical account of the early church’s actions (the Book of Acts), and then we have these four extraordinary books that stand at the beginning: the Gospels.

What exactly are the Gospels? They aren’t typical letters like Paul wrote. They seem like histories, bio/graphical accounts, and maybe even theological treatises> in some sense. Unlike modern books with authors clearly listed on the cover, the Gospels are, strictly speaking, anonymous within their texts. Yet, from very early times, strong traditions connected these writings to specific individuals: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These weren’t random scribes but people closely linked to Jesus or His closest followers. These four distinct accounts of Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection became foundational.

Imagine being an Israelite or early Christian in the first century. You’ve heard stories about Jesus – perhaps you even saw Him, or have spoken to someone who did. Now, people are writing down these accounts. Why four? Why not just one definitive story? As we delve into Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we’ll see that while they tell the same core story, they each offer a unique portrait of Jesus, emphasizing different aspects of who He is and what He did. They are four witnesses, each highlighting the glorious King from a slightly different angle, tailored for different audiences and purposes within that burgeoning early faith community.

Let’s explore these four unique yet harmonious voices. (Bulletin Insert)

(1: Matthew – The King and the Kingdom: Fulfilling the Jewish Story)

Tradition tells us this Gospel was written by Matthew, also known as Levi, one of the original twelve disciples, who Jesus called away from his tax collection booth. Now, in our time, a tax collector might be someone doing a job. But in first-century Israel, under Roman occupation, a tax collector was often seen as a collaborator, someone who profited from the oppression of his own people, perhaps even extorting more than required for Rome. For Jesus to call such a man to be a close follower was scandalous to some,/ yet a powerful sign of His reach to the marginalized and despised.

From an ancient Israelite perspective, Matthew’s background might have made him uniquely suited to write this Gospel. As a tax collector, he was literate, accustomed to record-keeping, and familiar with numbers and details. But more importantly, his conversion was a dramatic turning from the service of Rome to the service of the true King of Israel.

Matthew’s Gospel strongly resonates with Jewish concerns. It demonstrates how Jesus fulfills the promises, prophecies, and patterns found in the Old Testament Scriptures: “The Law and the Prophets.” His aim seems to show his predominantly Jewish audience that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah, the King who fulfills Israel’s story.

Object Lesson: [Hold up a scroll] Imagine this is an ancient scroll, perhaps a family lineage or a record of important prophecies. For Israelites, scrolls like these held the weight of their history, identity, and future hope. Matthew writes with this sense of history and prophecy palpable in every chapter, unrolling the story of Jesus as the culmination of everything that came before. He shows us that Jesus isn’t a break from the past, but the magnificent fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham and David.

Matthew frequently links events in Jesus’ life directly to Old Testament predictions. He emphasizes Jesus’ teachings on the Law, presenting Him not as someone abolishing it, but as bringing it to its intended purpose and fullness. As Jesus says in Matthew 5:17 (NLT), “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to fulfill them.” He shows that Jesus’ teachings, like the Sermon on the Mount, offer a deeper understanding of God’s heart behind the Law, moving beyond mere external observance to the attitude of the heart.

Matthew also seems keenly aware of the tension between Jesus’ ministry, primarily focusing on Israel, and the eventual expansion to the Gentiles. The Messiah was for Israel! But Matthew, /writing after the resurrection and the beginnings of the Gentile mission, also includes stories that foreshadow the broader reach of the Gospel, often initiated by Gentiles themselves.

Consider the story of the Canaanite woman (Matthew 15:21-28). Matthew includes this not just as a healing story, but as a sign that faith in Jesus, even from a Gentile, would be honored and included, hinting at the future mission.

Matthew’s Gospel also carries a strong critique of the religious leadership of the day, particularly the scribes and Pharisees. From an Israelite perspective, these were the keepers of the Law, the interpreters of tradition. Yet, Jesus confronts them sharply. Matthew dedicates an entire chapter (Matthew 23) to Jesus pronouncing woes upon them: “What sorrow awaits you scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! For you shut the door of the Kingdom of Heaven in people’s faces. You won’t go in yourselves, and you prevent others from entering.” (Matthew 23:13 NLT).

Imagine the shock among the listeners! The leaders of Israel told they were outside the Kingdom, actively preventing others from entering! Jesus isn’t just saying they’re having a bad day; He’s questioning their loyalty to the one true God.

This brings us to the core verses for this sermon, found at the very end of Matthew’s Gospel. After His resurrection, Jesus gathers His disciples and makes an astonishing declaration, tying together the themes of kingship, authority, and mission that Matthew has been building towards:

“Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20 NLT)

“All authority!” This wasn’t just granted at the resurrection; Matthew shows Jesus exercising this authority throughout his Gospel – over sickness, demons, nature, and even death. Matthew suggests this authority was evident from His victory over Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4) and onwards. Jesus, the Messiah King, now declares His universal sovereignty. Based on this authority, He issued the command to go to “all the nations” – a direct expansion beyond the initial “lost sheep of Israel,” fulfilling the promise that through Abraham’s seed, all nations would be blessed. Matthew presents Jesus as the King, and His followers as those commissioned to extend His Kingdom to the ends of the earth.

Summary Statement for Main Point 1: Matthew’s Gospel presents Jesus as the Messiah King who fully embodies and fulfills the story and promises of ancient Israel, establishing His authority and commissioning His followers to extend His Kingdom to all nations.

(2: Mark – The Suffering Servant: The Urgency of the Gospel in Action)

Traditionally, Mark is believed to be John Mark, Peter’s companion. It’s often suggested that Mark’s Gospel reflects Peter’s preaching and eyewitness accounts, likely compiled for a Roman audience. This might explain its concise, fast-paced style, often using the word “immediately.” Action and power are central.

Object Lesson: [Hold up a rough metal cross.] In the Roman world, the cross symbolized brutal execution, reserved for the lowest criminals and rebels. It represented shame, suffering, and death. While it is the central symbol of our faith now, to first-century eyes, a suffering Messiah, let alone one executed on a cross, was a profound paradox. Mark confronts his readers with this paradox head-on, showing Jesus’ path leading inevitably to the cross, presenting Him as the powerful Son of God who also came as the Suffering Servant. Mark progressively reveals Jesus’ identity, often linking it to His suffering.

Mark highlights Jesus’ journey towards the cross with increasing clarity. Several predictions of His death start somewhat cryptically and become explicitly detailed. Jesus tells His disciples, “The Son of Man must suffer many terrible things and be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He will be killed, but three days later he will rise from the dead.” (Mark 8:31 NLT). Imagine being a disciple, hoping for a glorious kingdom on earth, and hearing this from the man you believe is the Messiah! Mark doesn’t shy away from the darkness; he shows that suffering and death are central to Jesus’ mission.

Mark also powerfully confronts the religious traditions that had become burdensome and, in Jesus’ view, often missed the heart of God’s Law. He includes significant episodes where Jesus deliberately violates or reinterprets traditional purity laws.

Consider the healing of the leper in Mark 1:40-42. Leprosy wasn’t just a physical disease; it rendered a person ritually unclean and socially isolated. Touching a leper made you unclean. Jesus deliberately crossed a boundary, showing God’s willingness to enter into our uncleanness and bring healing and restoration. He wasn’t afraid of becoming unclean; His touch brought cleanliness.

Mark also includes Jesus’ teaching on food laws and ritual washing in Mark 7:1-23, a passage crucial from a first-century Israelite viewpoint. The Pharisees and scribes criticize Jesus’ disciples for not performing ritual handwashing before eating, accusing them of violating tradition. Jesus’ response is radical: “Nothing outside you can make you unclean by going into you. Rather, it is what comes out of you that makes you unclean.” (Mark 7:15 NLT). Mark explicitly adds, “(This means Jesus declared all foods clean.)*” (Mark 7:19 NLT).

Mark highlights this to show that Jesus was shifting the focus from external ritual purity to internal moral and spiritual purity. His point wasn’t that the Old Testament laws were bad, but that rigid adherence to traditions and a focus solely on the external missed the weightier matters of the heart, just as he criticized the Pharisees elsewhere.

Mark’s unique perspective also surfaces in the passage about the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (Mark 3:28-30). Blaspheming the Holy Spirit meant attributing the undeniable work of God (through the Spirit empowering Jesus) to Satan. It was a fundamental, willful rejection of God’s power and presence at work in Jesus,/identifying His divine power as demonic. It was putting oneself firmly on the side of opposition to the one true God, a position from which there is no repentance or forgiveness because it denies the very means by which God saves.

Mark presents Jesus as the powerful Son of God, constantly in action, confronting spiritual forces and religious complacency, yet resolutely walking the path of suffering and sacrifice. He calls his followers to a similarly urgent and costly discipleship, to take up their cross and follow Him.

Summary Statement for Main Point 2: Mark portrays Jesus as the powerful, active, yet suffering Son of God who challenges restrictive traditions and calls for urgent, self-denying discipleship as He moves purposefully toward the cross.

 

 

(3: Luke – The Savior of All: God’s Plan for the World through the Spirit)

Traditionally attributed to Luke, a Gentile physician and a companion of the Apostle Paul. This fact is significant. Luke is the only known Gentile author in the New Testament. Along with the Book of Acts, (Luke volume 2), which he wrote, Luke is responsible for roughly a quarter of the entire New Testament text volume.

As a Gentile writing to another Gentile (his dedication is to Theophilus, Luke 1:3), Luke has a particular interest in showing that Jesus is the Savior not just for Israel, but for all people – including Gentiles, women, the poor, and the marginalized. He is often called the Gospel of the Outsider. Luke’s perspective is universal.

Object Lesson: [Hold up a simple cup]. Water in the ancient world was essential for life and was often used in rituals of purification and inclusion. Luke’s Gospel is like a cup of refreshing water being poured out not just for a select few, but for everyone who thirsts, symbolizing God’s salvation and the Holy Spirit made available to all nations and all people.

Luke’s Gospel includes events and parables that are unique to him and powerfully illustrate Jesus’ heart for those often overlooked by society. His Gospel begins with prophecies that immediately hint at the broader scope of salvation. Simeon, holding the infant Jesus, declares, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” (Luke 2:29-32 NLT). This is long before Jesus begins public ministry, yet the theme of “salvation for all people,” “light to the nations,” is present from the start.

When Jesus begins His ministry in His hometown synagogue in Nazareth (Luke 4:16-30), He reads from Isaiah 61 about bringing good news to the poor, liberty to the captives, and recovering sight to the blind. Then, after stating this prophecy is fulfilled in their hearing, He reminds them of Old Testament stories where God’s prophets helped Gentiles when Israelites rejected them – Elijah and the widow of Sidon, Elisha, and Naaman the Syrian. The reaction? The people in the synagogue are filled with rage and try to kill Him! Luke shows how radical Jesus’ message of inclusion was to those with a narrow, exclusive view of God’s favor.

Luke features stories like Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector in Jericho (Luke 19:1-10). Luke also includes the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14). The Pharisee proudly lists his religious merits, while the tax collector stands humbly apart, beats his chest in sorrow, and prays, “O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.” Jesus concludes, “I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14 NLT).

Luke also emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit, God’s empowering presence. While the Spirit is mentioned in other Gospels, Luke highlights the Spirit’s activity from the beginning: in Mary, Elizabeth, Zechariah, Simeon, and Anna. Jesus himself is conceived by the Spirit and empowered by the Spirit. This emphasis carries directly into the Book of Acts, where the Spirit empowers the early church to continue Jesus’ mission to the ends of the earth. Luke shows that God’s presence and power, the Holy Spirit, actively brings salvation for all people.

Luke includes hard sayings, emphasizing that following the universal Savior requires radical commitment and a willingness to step outside traditional boundaries and comforts.

Finally, Luke connects Jesus directly to the entire sweep of Scripture. Luke shows that the entire Old Testament narrative points forward to Jesus – His suffering and His glory. Luke emphasizes that Jesus’ life and mission are deeply rooted in God’s long-established plan revealed in the Scriptures.

Summary Statement for Main Point 3: Luke’s Gospel portrays Jesus as the compassionate Savior for all people, highlighting His inclusion of the marginalized and emphasizing the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in bringing God’s salvation to the world.

(4: John – The Divine Son: Eternal Life Through Belief)

Our final Gospel is John. This Gospel is distinctly different from the Synoptics in structure, style, and content. It contains unique stories and long discourses of Jesus not found in Matthew, Mark, or Luke, such as the conversations with Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman at the well, the raising of Lazarus, and the extensive teaching in the Upper Room.

While traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, the son of Zebedee, the Gospel itself is anonymous. Regardless of the precise identity of the human author or source, the Gospel presents itself as an eyewitness account deeply connected to Jesus. John’s purpose is clearly stated: “But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life in his name.” (John 20:31 NLT). John wants his readers to believe in Jesus’ true identity – not just as Messiah, but as the Son of God, divine, pre-existent, the Word made flesh (John 1:1, 14).

Object Lesson: [Turn on a bright light source – a flashlight]. In a world often shrouded in darkness spiritually through ignorance, sin, and misunderstanding – (uncover), light represents truth, revelation, and life itself. John’s Gospel frequently uses the metaphor of light and darkness. Jesus is presented as the light of the world, the source of true life and understanding, piercing the darkness and inviting us to walk in His truth.

John begins with a profound theological statement about Jesus’ identity: “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God.” (John 1:1-2 NLT). This takes his readers back beyond Jesus’ earthly birth, placing Him alongside God in eternity. He is the divine Word through whom all things were created. This was a revolutionary concept, particularly for a Jewish audience committed to strict monotheism, and it also spoke to Greek philosophical ideas of the “Logos” or Word.

One of the most famous passages in the Bible is John 3:16. It’s often quoted without its immediate context (John 3:1-21). Jesus is speaking to Nicodemus, a prominent Pharisee and Jewish leader, a “ruler of the Jews.” Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night, acknowledging that Jesus is a teacher from God because of His miraculous signs. Nicodemus represents the best of Israel – devout, seeking truth.

Jesus tells him he must be “born again” or “born from above.” Nicodemus struggles with this concept. Then Jesus explains God’s love and plan: “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16 NLT). God’s love for the world – not just Israel, but the cosmos, including Gentiles – is demonstrated by giving His unique Son. The condition for receiving this life is belief in Him – “everyone who believes.”

John 3:17 reinforces this: God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. While judgment will come, Jesus’ primary purpose in His first coming was salvation for all who would believe, extending God’s grace far beyond the boundaries many Israelites expected.

John also emphasizes the intimate relationship between Jesus and the Father. Perhaps most strikingly, Jesus says, “The Father and I are one.” (John 10:30 NLT). This was a clear claim to deity, causing the Jewish leaders to pick up stones to stone Him for blasphemy (John 10:31-33).

John’s Gospel emphasizes signs (miracles) not just as acts of power, but as pointing to Jesus’ identity. He calls them “signs” because they signify who Jesus is – the Son of God, the source of life, the light of the world. From turning water into wine to raising Lazarus from the dead, these signs are evidence intended to lead people to belief.

Through these unique elements, John presents a profound theological portrait of Jesus as the divine Son, co-equal with the Father, the source of eternal life available through belief. He calls for a deep, personal faith rooted in the knowledge of who Jesus truly is.

Summary Statement for Main Point 4: John’s Gospel presents Jesus as the divine Son of God, the eternal Word made flesh, emphasizing His unique relationship with the Father and offering eternal life to everyone who believes in Him.

(Connecting the Gospels: One Story, Four Witnesses)

So we have these four remarkable Gospels. Matthew: the King and the Kingdom, fulfilling Israel’s story. Mark: the Suffering Servant, urgent action, and costly discipleship. Luke: the Savior of All, compassion for the marginalized, and the work of the Spirit. John: the Divine Son, the source of eternal life through belief.

They tell the same core story of Jesus of Nazareth, but they approach it from different angles, highlight different aspects, and seem written with different audiences and purposes in mind. Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ Jewish heritage and kingship; Mark emphasizes His power and suffering; Luke emphasizes His universal compassion and the Spirit; John emphasizes His divine nature and the call to belief for eternal life. Four portraits give us a more vibrant picture of the complex, multifaceted glory of Jesus than any single account could provide.

(Applications and Takeaways) Four indispensable witnesses to the most essential life ever lived.

What does this mean for us today, studying these ancient texts from a world so different from our own?

Takeaway 1: Appreciating the Rich Tapestry of Jesus’ Identity.

The fact that God preserved four distinct accounts of Jesus is an invitation to see Him in His fullness. We might naturally gravitate to one Gospel that resonates most with us – perhaps Luke’s focus on justice and inclusion, or John’s emphasis on divine mystery and relationship. But reading all four allows us to encounter a Jesus who is both King and Servant, both fully divine and fully human, both the fulfillment of promises to Israel and the Savior of the world, both intimately relatable and utterly transcendent.

• Narrative/Stories: Imagine asking four people who deeply love the same person to describe them. One might focus on their kindness, another on their strength, another on their wisdom, and another on their unique sense of humor. Each description is true, but put together, they paint a far richer, more complete picture of that beloved individual. Similarly, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John offer us different, yet true, perspectives on Jesus, building a complete and compelling portrait. The early Christians didn’t see these differences as contradictions but as complementary witnesses to an inexhaustible person. When we read them, we deepen our understanding and appreciation for who Jesus is.
• Takeaway Summary: Value and read all four Gospels to gain a more complete, multifaceted understanding of Jesus Christ, appreciating the diverse ways He is presented as King, Servant, Savior, and Son of God.

Takeaway 2: Embracing Jesus’ Authority and Our Universal Mission.

Our core verses, Matthew 28:18-20, powerfully connect Jesus’ identity to our purpose. “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations…” Matthew grounds the mission in Jesus’ supreme authority – He is the King with the right to commission us. Luke reminds us this mission is for “all the nations,” extending God’s salvation beyond narrow boundaries, empowered by the Holy Spirit (Luke-Acts). Mark reminds us that this mission involves following a suffering servant, requiring costly discipleship and facing opposition. John reminds us that the core of the message is belief in the Son of God for eternal life.

• Narrative/Stories: Think about a king sending out ambassadors. Their authority is derived entirely from the king who sent them. They go in his name, backed by his power. Jesus, the one with all authority, sends us as His ambassadors. This isn’t a minor suggestion; it’s a command from the King of the universe. And it’s a universal command – to “all the nations.” For ancient Israelites or early Jewish Christians who might have struggled to see God’s full plan for Gentiles, this was a monumental shift. For us today, it means the Gospel is for everyone, everywhere – regardless of ethnicity, social status, past sins, or any other human distinction. It calls us to look beyond our comfort zones and share the good news with the same universal compassion Jesus demonstrated in Luke’s Gospel, relying on the Spirit’s power.
• Takeaway Summary: Recognize that our call to make disciples stems directly from Jesus’ ultimate authority, empowering us to carry the universal Gospel message to people from every background, embracing the cost of following Him as portrayed in the Gospels.

Takeaway 3: Finding Your Story in His Story.

Each Gospel offers a way to connect with Jesus on a personal level. Do you feel like an outsider, overlooked, or judged? Luke’s Gospel, with its stories of Zacchaeus, the tax collector, the Samaritan, and the prodigal son, speaks volumes about God’s welcoming grace. Are you wrestling with doubt or seeking a deeper understanding of Jesus’ divine nature? John’s Gospel, with its profound “I AM” statements and invitations to believe, offers a powerful foundation for faith. Are you facing hardship or needing courage to follow Jesus obediently? Mark’s portrayal of the suffering servant and the call to take up the cross provides a model of resolute faithfulness. Are you seeking purpose and meaning, longing to see God’s plan unfold? Matthew’s Gospel, showing Jesus as the King building His Kingdom, invites you to become an active participant in God’s unfolding story.

• Narrative/Stories: Think about a mapmaker creating maps for different purposes. One map shows the main roads and political boundaries (like Matthew showing the King’s territory). Another shows the elevation and terrain, highlighting the challenging paths (like Mark showing the difficult road of suffering). Another shows the rivers and water sources, essential for life and accessible to many (like Luke showing God’s grace flowing to all). Another shows underground resources or constellations in the sky, pointing to deeper, hidden realities (like John showing Jesus’ divine nature and the source of eternal life). We can use each map to navigate our lives, understanding different aspects of the reality of following Jesus. Read each Gospel prayerfully, asking the Holy Spirit to show you how Jesus meets you in your specific circumstances and what He calls you to do.
• Takeaway Summary: Engage personally with each Gospel, allowing its unique portrait of Jesus to speak to your individual needs, challenges, and aspirations, deepening your faith and calling you to a more complete discipleship.

 

(Conclusion)

The four Gospels are not redundant repetitions, but four indispensable witnesses to the most essential life ever lived. Drawing from eyewitness accounts and guided by the Holy Spirit, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John provide a rich, multifaceted understanding of Jesus Christ – the prophesied King, the suffering Servant, the universal Savior, and the divine Son.

They call us to see Jesus in His fullness, to acknowledge His supreme authority, and to join Him in the mission to make disciples of all nations, empowered by His presence and guided by the Spirit. As we continue our New Testament orientation, let us return again and again to these foundational accounts, allowing the voices of these ancient witnesses to shape our understanding, strengthen our faith, and direct our lives according to the will of the King.

(Closing Prayer)

Almighty God, we thank you for the precious gift of the Four Gospels. Thank you for Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and for their faithfulness in recording the life and teachings of your Son. Help us to study these accounts with open hearts, eager to see Jesus more clearly. May the portrait of the King in Matthew inspire us to submit to His authority. May the image of the Suffering Servant in Mark strengthen us to follow Him through trials. May the portrayal of the Savior of All in Luke compel us to share your inclusive love. And may the revelation of the Divine Son in John deepen our belief and lead us into the fullness of eternal life. Empower us by your Spirit to live as disciples, carrying the good news to the world, confident that because Jesus has all authority, He is always with us. We pray this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Next week will be lesson 6 in our New Testament Orientation series. Our sixth lesson will be: Jesus’ Message to Gentiles & Jews – the Cross. The core verse is: Hebrews 3:1-2

 

Welcome to Day 2638 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2638 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 69:1-8 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2638

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2638 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’re embarking on a trek through a different kind of terrain – the deep, often turbulent waters of lament. We’re opening our Bibles to Psalm 69, starting with verses 1 through 8 in the New Living Translation.

Psalm 69 is one of the Bible’s most poignant and powerful lament psalms. It’s a raw cry from a soul in deep distress, feeling overwhelmed by suffering, enemies, and profound reproach. While it speaks to the personal agony of the psalmist, often attributed to David, it is also a profoundly Messianic psalm, with many of its verses finding their ultimate fulfillment in the suffering of Jesus Christ. For our trek today, however, we’ll primarily focus on the psalmist’s immediate experience, allowing his desperate plea to resonate with our own moments of overwhelming hardship.

Lament is a vital part of faith. It’s the language we use when life doesn’t make sense, when we feel abandoned, attacked, or misunderstood. The ancient Israelites understood this well; their psalms provided a divine vocabulary for every human emotion, including profound sorrow and confusion. This psalm offers us a sacred space to bring our deepest pain and rawest emotions before God.

So, let’s immerse ourselves in the opening verses of Psalm 69.

(Reads Psalm 69:1-4 NLT)

Save me, O God, for the floodwaters are up to my neck. Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire; I can’t find a foothold. I am drowning in deep waters; the floods overwhelm me. I am exhausted from crying for help; my throat is hoarse. My eyes are swollen red from weeping for my God. Those who hate me without cause are more numerous than the hairs on my head. These enemies who want to destroy me are powerful. They make me pay for crimes I didn’t commit. I am forced to return what I didn’t steal.

Guthrie Chamberlain: What a visceral, immediate cry for help! The psalmist wastes no time in conveying the urgency and desperation of his situation. He uses powerful, evocative imagery of being consumed by water: “Save me, O God, for the floodwaters are up to my neck. Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire; I can’t find a foothold. I am drowning in deep waters; the floods overwhelm me.”

This is more than just a metaphor for trouble; it speaks to a profound sense of being utterly submerged and losing control. In the ancient Near East, deep waters, floods, and mire often symbolized chaos, death, and overwhelming peril. When the psalmist says the waters are “up to my neck,” it means he is on the verge of suffocation, barely clinging to life. He’s not just in the water; he’s sinking into “mire,” thick mud that offers no solid ground, no hope of escape. He’s being “overwhelmed” – completely overcome and consumed by the torrents of his troubles.

Have you ever felt like that? Like you’re sinking, unable to find firm ground, with the pressures of life threatening to swallow you whole? Perhaps it’s a relentless financial struggle, a crushing illness, overwhelming grief, or an unrelenting wave of accusations. The psalmist gives voice to that suffocating feeling, that sense of being utterly out of control and unable to help oneself.

The emotional toll of this distress is evident in verse 3: “I am exhausted from crying for help; my throat is hoarse. My eyes are swollen red from weeping for my God.” This isn’t a casual complaint; it’s the lament of someone who has cried out to God incessantly, tirelessly, to the point of physical exhaustion. His voice is gone, his eyes are raw from incessant weeping. This shows not only the intensity of his suffering but also the persistence of his prayer. Even in his utter depletion, his focus is still on “my God.” He’s still crying to God, even when his body gives out. This paints a picture of resilient faith, even when the spirit is weary.

The source of much of his anguish is then revealed in verse 4: enemies who “hate me without cause.” This is a profoundly painful aspect of his suffering – to be hated and attacked unjustly. “More numerous than the hairs on my head” is a hyperbolic expression emphasizing the sheer multitude of his adversaries. These enemies are not just numerous; they are “powerful,” capable of inflicting real harm and pressing their advantage.

And then comes a gut-wrenching accusation: “They make me pay for crimes I didn’t commit. I am forced to return what I didn’t steal.” This speaks to the agony of false accusation and forced restitution for wrongs he didn’t commit. In ancient Israelite society, honor and reputation were paramount. To be publicly accused of crimes, especially stealing, and to be forced to compensate for them without having committed them, would have been a devastating blow to one’s standing, integrity, and social acceptance. It’s the ultimate injustice, a profound betrayal of truth and fairness. The psalmist is not only suffering physically and emotionally but is also being unjustly condemned and defrauded by his powerful, numerous enemies.

This opening lament sets the stage for a plea for justice and vindication, born out of deep personal anguish and a profound sense of injustice. It’s a cry for God to intervene because the psalmist has reached his absolute limit.

Now, let’s continue our trek with verses 5 through 8, where the psalmist acknowledges God’s omniscience and expresses concern for others, revealing the depth of his suffering for God’s sake.

(Reads Psalm 69:5-8 NLT)

O God, you know how foolish I am; my sins are not hidden from you. Don’t let me be a stumbling block to those who trust in you, O Sovereign Lord of All! Don’t let me cause them to be humiliated, O God of Israel. For I am suffering shame for your sake; humiliation is written across my face. Even my own brothers insult me and treat me like a stranger.

Guthrie Chamberlain: After his passionate complaint against his enemies and the overwhelming nature of his troubles, the psalmist turns to a moment of raw honesty before God in verse 5: “O God, you know how foolish I am; my sins are not hidden from you.” This is a crucial admission in a lament. While the psalmist has been crying out against injustice from others, he doesn’t present himself as perfectly innocent before God. He acknowledges his own “foolishness” and that his “sins are not hidden” from God’s all-seeing eye.

This confession reveals a deep spiritual maturity. He doesn’t blame God for his suffering, nor does he deny his own imperfections. He understands that God knows him completely, flaws and all. This honesty before God is essential for true lament. It’s not about being perfect, but about being real with the One who knows everything. It creates a foundation of humility and trust, even in the midst of bitter complaint.

But the psalmist’s concern extends beyond his own suffering in verses 6 and 7: “Don’t let me be a stumbling block to those who trust in you, O Sovereign Lord of All! Don’t let me cause them to be humiliated, O God of Israel. For I am suffering shame for your sake; humiliation is written across my face.” This is a selfless prayer, a profound concern for the impact his suffering might have on others who trust in God.

In ancient Israelite society, public humiliation and suffering could be perceived as a sign of God’s displeasure. If the psalmist, someone who ostensibly follows God, was seen to be suffering so terribly and unjustly, it could cause others to doubt God’s goodness, power, or justice. It could “stumble” their faith or cause them to be “humiliated” because of their association with a seemingly abandoned servant of God.

The psalmist’s motivation for enduring this shame is revealed: “For I am suffering shame for your sake; humiliation is written across my face.” This is a powerful statement. His suffering is not just personal misfortune; it is directly connected to his allegiance to God. He is bearing reproach, shame, and humiliation because of his faith, because he stands for God, or because of his association with God’s purposes. This is suffering for righteousness’ sake, a concept deeply resonant throughout biblical narrative and particularly in the life of Christ.

Think of those throughout history who have endured public scorn or persecution simply for their faith – from the early Christians facing Roman persecution to believers in totalitarian regimes today. Their suffering, when viewed by others, can be a test of faith. The psalmist is praying that his trial will not cause others to falter or be shamed, but instead, ultimately strengthen their trust in God.

The personal cost of this suffering is further emphasized in verse 8: “Even my own brothers insult me and treat me like a stranger.” This is perhaps the most painful kind of alienation – rejection by one’s own family. In a collectivist society like ancient Israel, family ties were paramount. To be insulted and treated like a stranger by one’s own kin was a devastating form of social ostracization. It meant losing the very support system and sense of belonging that was crucial for survival and identity. This speaks to the depth of the psalmist’s isolation and betrayal, amplifying the pain of his suffering for God’s sake.

Psalm 69:1-8 introduces us to a man utterly overwhelmed, unjustly accused, and deeply shamed, not just by enemies, but even by his own family, all because of his devotion to God. Yet, even in this profound distress, he remains honest with God about his own sins and shows deep concern for the faith of others.

What can we take from this raw, honest lament for our Wisdom-Trek today?

Firstly, it provides a powerful model for expressing our deepest distress to God. When we feel overwhelmed, sinking, exhausted, or unjustly treated, we can use the language of lament. God invites our authentic, unfiltered cries for help.

Secondly, it reminds us of the importance of honesty before God, even in our lament. While we may complain about circumstances or others, we must also acknowledge our own imperfections and sins, trusting in God’s complete knowledge and grace.

Thirdly, it challenges us to consider the cost of discipleship. Sometimes, our suffering, especially when we endure reproach or misunderstanding for our faith, can be “for God’s sake.” In those moments, we are called to persevere, even while our hearts cry out to God for vindication.

Finally, it teaches us to pray not just for ourselves, but for the impact our struggles might have on others. Our witness in suffering can either stumble or strengthen the faith of those around us. Let us pray that our endurance, by God’s grace, will ultimately point others to Him, preventing them from being shamed and helping them to trust in the “Sovereign Lord of All.”

(Outro Music: Upbeat, adventurous theme fades in)

Guthrie Chamberlain: Thank you for joining me on this profound trek through the opening verses of Psalm 69. I trust that this exploration of lament and endurance has resonated with your own journey and equipped you to bring your deepest concerns before our compassionate God. Join me again next time as we continue to seek and apply the timeless truths of God’s Word.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!