Welcome to Day 2657 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2657 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 72:1-5 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2657

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2657 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’s Wisdom Nugget is titled: The Blueprint of Righteous Reign – A Trek Through Psalm 72:1-5. Today, we begin a new and majestic trek through Psalm 72 in the New Living Translation, starting with its foundational verses, 1-5.

Psalm 72 is a unique and magnificent “royal psalm.” It’s a prayer for a king, often attributed to Solomon, or perhaps composed for his coronation. It paints a vivid portrait of an ideal king, one whose reign is characterized by justice, righteousness, and profound blessing, especially for the most vulnerable in society. While it speaks directly to an earthly monarch, its vision is so grand and perfect that many scholars also see it as a prophetic psalm, pointing forward to the ultimate, eternal reign of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies these ideals.

In the ancient Israelite worldview, kingship was not just a political office; it was a divinely ordained role with immense moral and spiritual responsibilities. A king was God’s representative on earth, tasked with upholding God’s justice and righteousness among His people. When the king ruled justly, it was believed that God’s blessing would flow, bringing prosperity and peace to the entire nation.

So, let’s immerse ourselves in this prayer for righteous governance and consider what it reveals about God’s heart for justice and His desire for truly benevolent leadership.

(Reads Psalm 72:1-2 NLT)

Give your justice to the king, O God, and your righteousness to the king’s son. May he judge your people with righteousness; may he give justice to the poor.

Guthrie Chamberlain: The psalm opens with a direct appeal to God for the king: “Give your justice to the king, O God, and your righteousness to the king’s son.” This immediately establishes that the qualities of good governance do not originate with the king himself, but are gifts from God. “Justice” (mishpat) in the Hebrew worldview refers to fair judgment, upholding moral and legal order, and ensuring equitable treatment, especially for the disadvantaged. “Righteousness” (tsedeq) speaks to moral integrity, adherence to divine standards, and acting justly and fairly in all dealings.

For the king to possess “God’s justice” and “God’s righteousness” meant that his rule would not be based on personal whim, political expediency, or self-interest, but on divine principles. He was to embody God’s own character in his leadership. The prayer is specifically for “the king” and “the king’s son,” highlighting the dynastic nature of kingship and the hope that these divine qualities would be passed down through generations, ensuring a legacy of righteous rule. This was crucial for stability and long-term blessing in a monarchical system.

The purpose of these divine gifts is then clearly articulated: “May he judge your people with righteousness; may he give justice to the poor.” The primary function of a king in ancient Israel was to be a judge, to settle disputes, and to ensure fairness within the land. To “judge with righteousness” means to rule impartially, without corruption or favoritism, always upholding what is morally right and just.

However, the prayer immediately focuses on a particular group within the king’s jurisdiction: “the poor.” This is a recurring theme throughout the prophetic literature and the Psalms. God has a special concern for the vulnerable. “The poor” (ani) in this context refers not only to those lacking material wealth but also to the afflicted, the oppressed, the humble, and the marginalized. They often lacked power, influence, and legal recourse, making them easy targets for exploitation by the wealthy and powerful.

For the king to “give justice to the poor” meant actively defending their rights, protecting them from oppression, ensuring they received fair treatment in legal matters, and preventing their exploitation. This was a radical concept in a world often dominated by hierarchical power structures where the poor had little voice or protection. It emphasizes that true, godly justice is not just about abstract principles; it is intensely practical, focused on the well-being of those who need it most. It aligns the king’s heart with God’s own heart for social justice.

This opening sets a high standard for leadership, one that recognizes ultimate authority and moral grounding in God, and measures true success by the protection and flourishing of the most vulnerable.

Now, let’s continue our trek with verses 3 through 5, where the psalmist describes the glorious consequences of such a righteous reign, focusing on prosperity, peace, and the enduring nature of this just rule.

(Reads Psalm 72:3-5 NLT)

May the mountains yield prosperity for all, and may the hills be fruitful with righteousness. May he defend the afflicted among the people and rescue the children of the needy; may he crush their oppressors. May he live as long as the sun; may his reign continue as long as the moon, through all generations.

Guthrie Chamberlain: The consequences of a king ruling with God’s justice and righteousness are immediate and widespread, extending even to the natural world: “May the mountains yield prosperity for all, and may the hills be fruitful with righteousness.” In an agrarian society like ancient Israel, prosperity was intrinsically linked to agricultural abundance. Mountains and hills, often seen as barren or less productive, are here envisioned as bringing forth “prosperity.” This is a poetic way of saying that under a righteous king, the entire land, even its less fertile parts, would flourish. This flourishing, however, is directly tied to “righteousness.” It’s not just economic prosperity; it’s a blessing that flows from a righteous reign, a sign of God’s favor on a just society.

This reflects the ancient Israelite understanding of covenant blessings. When the people, led by their king, walked in obedience and righteousness, God would bless the land, bringing abundant harvests and peace. This vision of prosperity for “all” implies a widespread blessing, not just for the elite, but for everyone in the kingdom.

The psalmist then returns to the king’s crucial role in protecting the vulnerable, expanding on the earlier theme: “May he defend the afflicted among the people and rescue the children of the needy; may he crush their oppressors.” This is the king as the active champion of the weak. “The afflicted” (ani) again refers to those suffering from hardship and oppression. “The children of the needy” emphasizes the king’s responsibility to protect the most defenseless members of society, ensuring their future and well-being.

And his action is decisive: “may he crush their oppressors.” This is strong language. “Crush” (daka’) implies utterly breaking the power of those who exploit and harm the vulnerable. This is God’s justice in action, executed through the king. It’s not about mild admonishment, but a powerful intervention that dismantles systems and individuals of oppression, bringing an end to their ability to inflict harm. This ensures that the peace and prosperity that flow from righteousness are not merely theoretical but are actively defended against those who would disrupt them.

The psalm then expresses a fervent prayer for the enduring nature of this righteous king’s reign: “May he live as long as the sun; may his reign continue as long as the moon, through all generations.” This is a prayer for perpetual rule, for an eternal dynasty. In the ancient world, the sun and moon were symbols of constancy and eternity. For a king’s life and reign to endure as long as these celestial bodies signifies a desire for an unending, unbroken line of just rulers.

For the earthly king, this was an aspiration, a hope for a long and prosperous reign and a stable succession. However, this language points beyond any mere mortal king. No human ruler can live “as long as the sun and moon” or reign “through all generations.” This prophetic yearning for an everlasting, perfectly just king points directly to the Messiah, Jesus Christ. He is the one whose kingdom is eternal, whose reign is perfectly righteous, and whose justice truly knows no end. He is the ultimate fulfillment of this ideal blueprint for righteous governance.

Psalm 72:1-5 lays out a magnificent vision for leadership, rooted in divine justice and compassion, leading to widespread flourishing and enduring peace. It speaks to the heart of God for His people and for a world governed by His righteous principles.

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

Firstly, these verses remind us that true, godly leadership, whether in a nation, a community, a family, or an organization, must flow from God’s justice and righteousness, not from human ambition or power. We should pray for and support leaders who seek to embody these divine qualities.

Secondly, God’s heart has a special concern for the poor, the afflicted, the needy, and the oppressed. A truly righteous society, reflecting God’s character, actively defends the vulnerable and crushes the power of their oppressors. This challenges us to consider our own role in advocating for justice and compassion.

Thirdly, when justice and righteousness prevail, blessings extend beyond human society to the very land itself. There is a deep connection between righteous living and flourishing. While we don’t always see immediate cause-and-effect, this psalm suggests a divine order where aligning with God’s ways ultimately leads to well-being.

Finally, the aspiration for an eternal reign points us to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. He is the one who perfectly embodies all the ideals of justice, righteousness, and compassion outlined in this psalm. His kingdom is everlasting, and His justice is perfect. He is the hope for a truly just and peaceful world.

Let us pray for our leaders to rule with God’s justice and righteousness, and let us strive to be agents of that same justice and compassion in our own spheres of influence, knowing that ultimately, God’s righteous reign will endure forever.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Thank you for joining me on this profound trek through the opening verses of Psalm 72. I trust that this exploration of righteous reign and divine justice has given you new insights and encouraged your heart today. 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 2656 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – “Once and Future Kings” – Supernatural

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2656

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2656 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, we begin a new focus on this 3rd of 16 segments of our Theology Thursday lessons. I will read through the book Supernatural, written by Hebrew Bible scholar, professor, and mentor, the late Dr. Michael S. Heiser. Supernatural is a condensed version of his comprehensive book ‘The Unseen Realm.’ If these readings pique your interest, I would recommend that you read ‘The Unseen Realm.’ Today, we will read through chapter two: ‘Once and Future Kings.’

We’ve had a brief introduction to God’s heavenly council—his unseen family and task force. There’s a lot more to all that—we need to look, especially, at how major players like Jesus and Satan fit into the picture. But before we return to what goes on in the unseen world, we need to think in a fresh way about ourselves. God’s rule in the unseen spiritual world through his council is a template for his rule on earth—what theologians call the kingdom of God. All of that began in Genesis, in the garden of Eden.

Eden—God’s Home Office

What’s the first thing you think of when you hear “garden of Eden”? Most people I’ve talked to think of Adam and Eve. Eden was their home. That’s where God put them (Gen. 2:15–25). But Eden was also God’s home. Ezekiel refers to Eden as “the garden of God” (Ezek. 28:13; 31:8–9). No surprise, really. What might be surprising is that, right after calling Eden “the garden of God,” Ezekiel calls it “the holy mountain of God” (v. 28:14). In many ancient religions, luxurious gardens and inaccessible mountains were considered the home of the gods. The Bible uses both descriptions for Eden. Eden was God’s home and, therefore, where he conducted business. It was his headquarters, or home office. And where God is, his council is with him.

God’s Imagers

One of the most important verses in the Bible tips us off that both God and his council were in Eden. In Genesis 1:26 God says, “Let us make humankind in our image” (leb, emphasis added). God announces his intention to a group. Who’s he talking to? His heavenly host—his council. He’s not talking to the other members of the Trinity, because God can’t know something they don’t! And here the group he’s addressing learns what God has decided to do.

The announcement is easy to understand. It would be like me saying to some friends, “Let’s get pizza!” Let’s do this! Clear enough. But there’s something else we don’t want to miss. God actually doesn’t include the group in bringing about his decision.

Unlike other divine council sessions we’ve seen, the members of God’s council don’t participate in this decision. When humankind is created in the next verse (Gen. 1:27), God is the only one creating. The creation of humanity is something God handled himself. Going back to my pizza analogy, if I followed my announcement by driving everyone to the pizza place and insisted on paying, I would be the one doing all the work. That’s what we see going on here.

It makes sense that God would be the only one creating humans. The divine beings of his council don’t have that kind of power. But that produces another oddity. In Genesis 1:27, humans are created in God’s image (“God created humankind in his image,” leb, emphasis added). What happened to “our image” from verse 26?

Actually, nothing. The exchange between “our image” and “his image” in Genesis 1:26–27 reveals something fascinating. God’s statement—“Let us make humankind in our image”—means that he and the ones he’s speaking to share something in common. Whatever that is, humans will also share it once God creates them. Not only are we like God in some way, but we are also like the divine beings of his council.

That “something” is communicated by the phrase “image of God.” A better translation of Genesis 1:26 would be that God created humans as his image. To be human is to be God’s imager. We are God’s representatives, so to speak.

The image of God isn’t an ability given to us by God, like intelligence. We can lose abilities, but we cannot lose the status of being God’s imager. That would require not being human! Every human, from conception to death, will always be human and always be God’s imager. This is why human life is sacred.

How do we represent God? We saw in the previous chapter that God shares his authority with the divine beings of his unseen task force. He does the same thing with humans on earth. God is the high king of all things visible and invisible. He rules. He shares that rule with his family in the spiritual world and the human world. We’re here to participate in God’s plan to make the world all he wants it to be and enjoy it with him.

Eventually God showed us how we should do that. Jesus is the ultimate example of representing God. He’s called the image of the invisible God (Col. 1:15) and the exact imprint of God (Heb. 1:3). We are to imitate Jesus for that reason (Rom. 8:29; 2 Cor. 3:18).

Two Councils, One Destiny

There’s a drift in all this I hope you’re catching. Humans are basically God’s administration—his council—on earth. We were made to live in God’s presence, with his heavenly family. We were made to enjoy him and serve him forever. Originally, that was meant to also happen on earth. Eden was where heaven and earth intersected. God and his council members occupied the same space as humanity. But to what end?

God told Adam and Eve, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion … over every living thing that moves on the earth” (Gen. 1:28). This was the task for God’s imagers. They would serve God as steward-kings over creation. Humanity’s job was to overspread the earth and extend Eden to the entire planet—to grow the kingdom of God. That job was too big for two people, so God wanted Adam and Eve to produce children.

As we know, Adam and Eve and their progeny failed. Humanity sinned. Had that not occurred, the earth would have been gradually transformed to a global Eden. We would have had everlasting life on a perfected planet, living with God and his spiritual family.

God loved humanity, so he forgave Adam and Eve. But the rest of humanity from that point on was destined to follow in Adam and Eve’s footsteps. We all sin and deserve death without God’s intervention (Rom. 6:23). We are mortal and, therefore, sinners. We need salvation.

The idea of God wanting us to join his divine family, to be part of his council and live in his presence, helps us understand some amazing things the Bible says. It explains why the Bible refers to believers as “sons of God” or “children of God” (John 1:12; 11:52; Gal. 3:26; 1 John 3:1–3). It explains why believers are described as being “adopted” into God’s family (Gal. 4:5–6; Rom. 8:14–6). It explains why we are said to be “heirs” of God and his kingdom (Gal. 4:7; Titus 3:7; James 2:5) and “partakers of the divine nature” (2 Pet. 1:4; see also 1 John 3:2). It explains why, after Jesus returns, he says he will grant believers “to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God” (Rev. 2:7). It explains why he’s promised to share the rule of the nations with us (Rev. 2:26–28), even his own throne (Rev. 3:21). We move forward through this life back to Eden. Heaven will return to earth.

That is what we’ll be doing in the afterlife—ruling in the new global Eden. We’ll be enjoying what Adam and Eve were originally intended to help produce. Everlasting life is not about playing harps and singing 24/7. It’s about discovering and relishing the unblemished creation in all its unimaginable fullness alongside God himself, the risen Jesus, and our fellow imagers, human and supernatural.

Why This Matters

It may not seem like it, but a lot of life-changing ideas extend from all this. Living consciously as though our lives represent God and further his plans—even if we don’t yet see that plan—would change the way we approach each day.

God’s original plan was to make the whole earth like Eden. God wanted humans to participate in expanding his good rule over all the earth, as it was in Eden. He told Adam and Eve to have children and become lords and stewards of creation (Gen. 1:26–28). That command wasn’t forgotten after the fall. In fact, it was repeated after the awful events of the flood (Gen. 8:17; 9:1). Though Eden was lost, God intends that it be restored. Ultimately, his rule—his kingdom—will return in its full scope when Jesus comes back and God creates a new heaven and earth (one that, in Revelation 21 and 22, looks a lot like Eden). In the meantime, we can spread the truth of God and the gospel of Jesus everywhere. We can also represent God to everyone we meet and in every place. We are God’s agents to restore Eden in the here and now, looking forward to the day when Jesus brings that plan to a climax.

Consciously thinking of ourselves as God’s agents—his imagers—means the decisions we make matter. Christians, no longer lost in sin, can fulfill God’s plan with the help of the Holy Spirit. We are here to spread the goodness of life with God and tell people who need the gospel how they can enjoy that too. Our lives intersect with many people. Their memory of those encounters ripples through their lives and through all the people whose lives they touch. We are a glimpse either of life with God or of a life without God. There’s no middle ground.

The knowledge that all humans are God’s imagers should also prompt us to see human life for the sacred thing that it is. This extends beyond momentous ethical decisions that deal with life and death. What we’ve learned has an impact on so much of how we see each other and relate to each other. Racism has no place in God’s world. Injustice is incompatible with representing God. The abuse of power—at home, at work, or in government​—​is ungodly. It is not how God dealt with his children in Eden, so it has no place in how we deal with fellow imagers.

Last, representing God means every job that honors him is a spiritual calling. Every legitimate task can be part of moving our world toward Eden and blessing fellow imagers—or not. God doesn’t view people in ministry as more holy or special because of their job descriptions. God cares about how each of us represents him where we are. We either stand against the darkness, sharing the life God wants everyone to ultimately experience, or we don’t. The opportunity doesn’t need to be spectacular; it just needs to be taken.

As spectacular as God’s intention in Eden was, the vision died with equal speed. Only God is perfect. Freedom in the hands of imperfect beings—even divine ones—can have disastrous results.

Heiser, Michael S. 2015. Supernatural: What the Bible Teaches about the Unseen World—And Why It Matters. Edited by David Lambert. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.

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 2655 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2655 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 71:17-24 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2655

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2655 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’s Wisdom Nugget is titled: A Lifelong Testament to God’s Unending Faithfulness – A Trek Through Psalm 71:17-24. Today, we embark on a profound and deeply personal trek through the concluding verses of Psalm 71 in the New Living Translation, encompassing verses 17 through 24.

Psalm 71 is a remarkable testament to lifelong faith, a prayer from an older individual who has weathered many storms and now, in their twilight years, continues to cling to God as their unshakeable refuge. We’ve already witnessed the psalmist’s raw vulnerability, his desperate pleas against abandonment in old age, and his unwavering trust in God amidst the malicious plots of his enemies. Now, in these final verses, the psalm culminates in a magnificent display of purpose, profound praise, and confident expectation of God’s ultimate vindication and restoration.

This section beautifully encapsulates the essence of a life lived for God. It speaks to the vital role of passing on a spiritual legacy to future generations, to the unshakeable truth of God’s incomparable greatness, and to the triumphant, joyful response of a soul delivered from the deepest troubles. It’s a powerful and fitting conclusion to a psalm that began in such anguish, reminding us that God’s faithfulness endures through all seasons of life, leading ultimately to resounding praise.

So, let’s open our hearts and minds to these final words of seasoned faith, allowing their wisdom to inspire our own journey.

Psalm 71:17-18 NLT

O God, you have taught me from my earliest childhood, and I have constantly told others about your wonders. Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me.

The psalmist begins by casting his gaze backward, reflecting on the enduring influence of God in his life: “O God, you have taught me from my earliest childhood, and I have constantly told others about your wonders.” This is a profound acknowledgment of God as his lifelong mentor and guide. From his formative years, God has been the source of his wisdom and understanding, shaping his worldview and teaching him through both direct revelation and lived experience.

This divine tutelage has not been a private affair. It has driven him to constantly share his experiences: he has “constantly told others about your wonders.” In ancient Israel, the oral tradition was crucial for preserving the nation’s spiritual heritage. Elders played a vital role in transmitting the stories of God’s mighty acts to the next generation, ensuring that His faithfulness would not be forgotten. The psalmist embodies this calling, living a life that is a continuous narrative of God’s miraculous interventions and awe-inspiring deeds. His life has been a living testament, an ongoing witness to God’s power and character.

However, the reality of his advanced age and current vulnerability brings forth a renewed, desperate plea: “Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God.” This echoes his earlier heartfelt cry in verse 9, underscoring the persistent anxiety of being left alone, particularly as his physical strength wanes. In ancient society, diminished strength could mean increased vulnerability to enemies and even social marginalization. This repeated plea is a testament to the psalmist’s deep reliance on God’s strength, not his own, and his profound fear of being forsaken.

But this fear is immediately contextualized by a compelling purpose: “Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me.” This reveals a selfless motivation behind his desperate prayer for continued life and strength. He doesn’t just want to be rescued for his own comfort or survival; he desires to live on so he can fulfill his sacred duty as a generational bridge. He yearns to impart God’s “power” and “mighty miracles” to “this new generation” and “all who come after him.” He sees his continued existence as essential for ensuring that God’s acts, His character, and His unwavering faithfulness are deeply impressed upon the hearts of those who will inherit the covenant promises. His very survival is intertwined with his mission to declare God’s glory to those who have not yet seen it.

Consider an ancient craftsman, nearing the end of his life, whose greatest desire is to pass on the intricate secrets of his trade to his apprentice, ensuring that the skill and art endure. The psalmist is like that, but his craft is the story of God’s faithfulness, and his apprentices are the generations to come.

Now, let’s move to verses 19 through 21, where the psalmist transitions to a magnificent declaration of God’s unparalleled greatness and a confident expectation of ultimate restoration from profound troubles.

Psalm 71:19-21 NLT

Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the heavens. You have done wonderful things. Who can compare with you, O God? You have shown me great and severe troubles, but you will restore me to health and bring me up from the depths of the earth. You will restore me to honor and comfort me once again.

The psalmist’s focus shifts from his personal situation to a grand, almost cosmic declaration of God’s incomparable character: “Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the heavens. You have done wonderful things. Who can compare with you, O God?” His previous fears and urgent pleas are now absorbed into an overwhelming sense of God’s majestic supremacy. God’s “righteousness”—His perfect justice, His moral purity, His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises—is not confined to earthly limits but “reaches to the heavens,” signifying its infinite, all-encompassing nature.

God’s “wonderful things” (often referring to His miraculous deeds of deliverance, particularly those seen in Israel’s history) are beyond human comprehension or replication. The rhetorical question, “Who can compare with you, O God?” serves as a powerful affirmation of God’s unique and supreme majesty. No other god, no human ruler, no power in heaven or on earth can rival Him. This foundational belief in God’s unparalleled greatness provides the ultimate basis for the psalmist’s hope and his ability to trust even in the darkest of times.

The psalmist then courageously acknowledges the depth of his suffering, but immediately follows it with a confident declaration of God’s restorative power: “You have shown me great and severe troubles, but you will restore me to health and bring me up from the depths of the earth.” He doesn’t deny the brutal reality of his “great and severe troubles.” These are not minor inconveniences but profound hardships that have brought him to the very brink of despair and perhaps death.

However, the “but” is a turning point, a pivot from lament to triumphant faith. It’s a declaration of his unshakeable belief in God’s ability to reverse his fortunes. “You will restore me to health” (or “revive me,” “give me life again”) indicates a profound recovery from illness, weakness, or despair. And “bring me up from the depths of the earth” is a powerful metaphor for resurrection, rescue from the grave, or deliverance from the lowest points of suffering and despair. It echoes the watery imagery used earlier in Psalm 69 (sinking in mire, drowning in deep waters, the pit of death), suggesting a complete reversal of his desperate situation. He is confident that God will pull him out of the deepest pit and lift him up.

The psalm continues with a double promise of restoration and comfort: “You will restore me to honor and comfort me once again.” Having been subjected to scorn, disgrace, and humiliation (as he lamented in earlier verses), the psalmist confidently believes that God will “restore me to honor.” This means regaining his reputation, his dignity, and his rightful place among God’s people. It’s a divine vindication that completely reverses the shame he has endured.

And finally, “comfort me once again.” After the profound pain, the despair, the fear of abandonment, and the cruel mockery, the psalmist anticipates a season of deep solace and renewed peace directly from God. This speaks to God’s tender care, His ability to heal the brokenhearted, and bring profound peace and joy after a season of intense trial.

Now, let’s conclude our trek with the final verses, 22 through 24, where the psalmist expresses the overflow of his gratitude through vibrant, musical praise and a powerful declaration of God’s righteousness.

Psalm 71:22-24 NLT

Then I will praise you with music on the harp, O my God. I will sing praises to you with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel. I will shout for joy and sing your praises, for you have ransomed me. I will tell about your righteous deeds all day long, for everyone who tried to harm me has been disgraced and humiliated.

The psalmist transitions from confident expectation to fervent, detailed commitment to praise: “Then I will praise you with music on the harp, O my God. I will sing praises to you with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel.” This is the promised response to God’s deliverance and restoration. His praise will be expressed through various musical instruments and forms. The harp and lyre were common stringed instruments in ancient Israelite worship, often used to accompany singing and dancing. This shows a full-hearted, expressive, and perhaps public worship.

He addresses God intimately as “my God” and then reverently as “O Holy One of Israel”—a title emphasizing God’s unique holiness and His covenant relationship with His people. This passionate, musical praise is a direct result of God’s anticipated acts of salvation.

The joy of his deliverance cannot be contained: “I will shout for joy and sing your praises, for you have ransomed me.” This is an exuberant, uninhibited declaration. To “shout for joy” signifies overwhelming gladness, a loud and public expression of delight. The reason for this outpouring is profoundly personal: “for you have ransomed me.” The word “ransomed” implies being bought back or delivered from captivity, slavery, or imminent death, often at a great cost. The psalmist acknowledges that his liberation comes solely from God’s redemptive act.

Finally, the psalmist vows to continue his testimony: “I will tell about your righteous deeds all day long, for everyone who tried to harm me has been disgraced and humiliated.” This fulfills his earlier desire to proclaim God’s power and miracles to the next generation. His life will be a living testimony, a continuous narrative of God’s “righteous deeds.” These deeds are God’s acts of justice and faithfulness, particularly His intervention on the psalmist’s behalf.

The reason for this perpetual proclamation is the ultimate vindication he anticipates: “for everyone who tried to harm me has been disgraced and humiliated.” The very enemies who gloated over him, who plotted his downfall, and who falsely accused him will be publicly shamed and dishonored. This is the ultimate reversal of fortunes, a clear demonstration of God’s justice. The psalmist’s life, once a spectacle of scorn, will become a spectacle of God’s vindication, powerfully confirming His righteous rule.

Psalm 71, in its entirety, is a magnificent journey from the depths of despair and fear to the heights of confident praise and prophetic vision. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith, the importance of intergenerational witness, and the unshakeable truth of God’s ultimate ability to restore, vindicate, and comfort those who trust in Him.

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

Firstly, our deliverance, when God acts, calls for a full and expressive response of praise. Our gratitude should overflow into music, shouts of joy, and continuous declarations of God’s goodness.

Secondly, our personal testimony of God’s righteous deeds and His vindication in our lives is meant to be shared. It is a powerful tool for encouraging others and proclaiming God’s justice in a world that often seems unjust.

Thirdly, the ultimate triumph of God’s righteousness guarantees that those who stubbornly oppose Him will be put to shame, while those who trust in Him will be honored and comforted. This provides a deep sense of security and hope.

Finally, Psalm 71 as a whole reminds us that God is faithful through all seasons of life – from childhood to old age, through great troubles to ultimate restoration. Our legacy is not just what we accumulate, but how we live a life that consistently proclaims God’s unfailing love and power to every generation.

Let us embrace this legacy, praise God with every fiber of our being, and boldly declare His righteous deeds, knowing that He is our ultimate Redeemer and Restorer.

Thank you for joining me on this profound and ultimately triumphant trek through the conclusion of Psalm 71. I trust that this exploration of lifelong faith, intergenerational witness, and God’s restorative power has enriched your journey today. Join me again next time as we embark on a new segment of Wisdom-Trek, continuing to uncover 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 our 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 wisdom from God’s Word!

Welcome to Day 2654 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2654 – New Testament Orientation – The Interpretation and Proclamation of the Gospel

Putnam Church Message – 06/15/2025

Sermon Series: New Testament Orientation

Message 8: “The Interpretation and Proclamation of the Gospel”

Last week, we explored ‘The Book of Acts: The Spirit’s Unstoppable Journey.’ Core Verses: Acts 1:8 Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT)

This week marks Message 8 of 12 in our New Testament Orientation, with the message title: “The Interpretation and Proclamation of the Gospel.” Core Verses: Acts 8:4 Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) But the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went.

Opening Prayer

Our Gracious Heavenly Father, we stand before You today, eager to delve into the profound truth of Your Word. As we continue our journey through the New Testament, we pray for Your Holy Spirit to illuminate our minds and hearts. Guide us, we pray, as we explore the vital task of interpreting and proclaiming the Good News of Jesus. May Your truth transform our understanding and empower us to be faithful witnesses in our own generation,>just as those who first believed. In the mighty name of Jesus, our Messiah and Lord, we pray. Amen.

Introduction: The Scattered Seeds of the Gospel

We’ve journeyed through the Gospels, understanding Jesus’ message and His incredible victory, and last week, we explored the Book of Acts, witnessing the Holy Spirit’s powerful arrival and the revolutionary inclusion of Gentiles into God’s family. Today, we turn our attention to a critical question: How was this Good News, this “Gospel,” understood, interpreted, and then proclaimed in the earliest days of the church?

Our core verse for today sets the stage: “But the believers who had been scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went.” (Acts 8:4, NLT) This verse speaks of a scattering—a time of persecution that pushed believers out of Jerusalem—but it also speaks of an unstoppable proclamation. They weren’t just surviving; they were preaching. But what exactly were they preaching? What was the “Good News about Jesus” from their ancient Israelite and early Christian perspective?

In our modern minds, the term “Gospel” often immediately brings to mind concepts such as “atonement,” “forgiveness of sins,” or “going to heaven.” While these are essential truths that flow from the Gospel,/they don’t fully capture the foundational message as the early believers understood and proclaimed it. For them, the Gospel was less about an individual’s destination after death and more about a divine kingdom that had decisively arrived on earth, bringing about a radical change in authority and allegiance, fulfilling centuries of Old Testament prophecies.

1. The Core of the Kerygma: Jesus as Messiah and Lord (Bulletin Insert)

The central message, or “Kerygma,” of the early church was the proclamation that Jesus of Nazareth was the long-awaited Jewish Messiah, fulfilling prophecy, and, crucially, that God had exalted him to be Lord over all creation, ushering in the kingdom of God.

Narrative & Illustration: When Peter stood up on the day of Pentecost, he didn’t start by explaining abstract theological concepts. He began with a compelling narrative that would resonate deeply with every devout Jew in the audience. He spoke of Jesus, a man “clearly attested to you by God with powerful miracles, wonders, and signs” (Acts 2:22, NLT). He then declared a shocking truth: that this very Jesus, whom they had crucified, God had “raised from the dead” (Acts 2:24, NLT). And the climax of his message, the very heart of the Kerygma (the Greek word for “proclamation”), was this: “Therefore, let all Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah!” (Acts 2:36, NLT).

For an ancient Israelite, “Messiah” meant “anointed one,” the King from David’s line who would restore Israel’s fortunes and establish God’s righteous rule on earth. But “Lord” (Kyrios in Greek, often used to translate Yahweh – the one true God – in the Septuagint) was an even more profound claim. It wasn’t just saying Jesus was a powerful ruler; it was declaring His divine authority, His rightful place at God’s right hand, exercising God’s own sovereignty over all creation.

Imagine a kingdom that has long awaited the return of its rightful king, who was thought to be lost or dead. The people suffer under corrupt rulers, longing for the promised reign of justice and peace. Then, a messenger arrives, not with a philosophical treatise, but with electrifying news: “The King! He lives! He has conquered! And he has been enthroned!” This news would demand a response—allegiance, surrender, and joyful participation in the new order. The early church’s Kerygma was precisely this kind of announcement. It wasn’t just a set of beliefs; it was a call to align oneself with the newly established divine authority of Jesus.

Object Lesson: Imagine a royal scroll, bearing the king’s seal and proclaiming a new decree for the kingdom. It’s not a suggestion or a request; it’s an authoritative declaration. The Kerygma is like this royal scroll, (show scroll) clearly announcing that Jesus is King, His authority is established, and a new era has begun. The core of the message is not what you must do to earn the King’s favor, but who the King is and what He has done.

2. Interpreting the Old Testament: The Prophets Point to Jesus

The early believers understood and proclaimed the Gospel by demonstrating how Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection were the direct fulfillment of the Old Testament Scriptures, showing that God’s plan had always been leading to Him.

Narrative & Illustration: For Peter and the other apostles, their primary text was the Hebrew Scriptures—what we call the Old Testament. They didn’t have the New Testament yet! So, when they proclaimed Jesus as Messiah and Lord, they immediately turned to the prophets, the Psalms, and the Law to prove their claims. This was not a new “spin” on ancient texts; it was revealing their true meaning, unlocked by the events of Jesus’ life.

When Peter explained the outpouring of the Spirit on Pentecost, he quoted the prophet Joel./When he spoke of Jesus’ resurrection, he quoted David from Psalm 16: “He saw what was coming and spoke of the Messiah’s resurrection, that he was not abandoned to the grave, nor did his body decay.” (Acts 2:31, NLT). Philip, in our core passage from Acts 8, encounters the Ethiopian eunuch reading from the book of Isaiah. Philip begins right there, explaining how Isaiah 53—the prophecy of the suffering servant—was fulfilled in Jesus: “So beginning with this same Scripture, Philip told him the Good News about Jesus.” (Acts 8:35, NLT).

For an ancient Israelite, the Scriptures were the very word of God, their guide for life, their history, and their hope for the future. The ability to show how these sacred texts pointed directly to Jesus was profoundly convincing. It meant Jesus wasn’t an anomaly or a rogue prophet; He was the culmination of God’s redemptive plan throughout history.

Think of an intricate ancient tapestry, (Eagle blanket) woven with countless threads, each telling a small part of a larger, mysterious story. For generations, people admired the beauty of the threads but couldn’t quite discern the full picture. Then, someone comes along, steps back, and points out how all the different colors and patterns suddenly form a clear image – an image that was there all along, but only visible once the final, central piece was understood. Jesus was that central piece of the Old Testament tapestry.

Object Lesson: Imagine a complex ancient roadmap, filled with symbols, lines, and cryptic place names. For centuries, travelers have used it to navigate, but some paths remain obscure, and the ultimate destination isn’t obvious. Now, a seasoned guide arrives, someone who has already traversed the entire journey. He points to certain symbols, deciphers the cryptic names, and shows how every winding path on the map leads precisely to a single, glorious destination. The Old Testament is the roadmap, and Jesus is the guide who reveals its true purpose and ultimate destination.

3. The Call to Repentance and Loyalty: Joining God’s Family

The proclamation of the Gospel in Acts was a call to “repentance” and “loyalty” (faith) to Jesus, which meant turning from old ways of life>and allegiance>to other powers,/and visibly joining God’s new family through baptism.

Narrative & Illustration: Following the powerful proclamation of Jesus as Lord and Messiah, the immediate response sought by the apostles was “repentance” and “baptism.” After Peter’s sermon on Pentecost, the crowd was “pierced to the heart” and asked, “What should we do?” (Acts 2:37, NLT). Peter’s reply: “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:38, NLT).

“Repentance” (Greek: meta/noia) for an ancient Israelite wasn’t just feeling sorry; it was a radical change of mind and direction, a turning away from idolatry and disloyalty to God. When applied to the Gentiles, it meant turning from their pagan gods and practices. “Loyalty” (Greek: pistis, often translated as “faith”) meant pledging allegiance to Jesus as Lord. And “baptism” was the public, visible sign of this new allegiance, a ritual of purification and incorporation into the new community,>the family of God,>now expanded beyond ethnic Israel. It was joining the movement, identifying with Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Think of a new general taking command of an army. He issues a clear directive: “All soldiers must turn from their past allegiances and swear an oath of loyalty to me. As a visible sign of this new allegiance, you will wear this new uniform and march under this new banner.” Those who repent and are baptized are publicly declaring their new allegiance to Jesus, putting on His “uniform,” and marching under His banner. It was a commitment to a new way of life, under a new Lord.

Object Lesson: Imagine a bustling marketplace in the ancient world, filled with stalls selling various goods, some legitimate, some counterfeit. People are constantly making choices about what to buy and from whom to buy it. The proclamation of the Gospel is like a trusted merchant arriving, not just selling a new product, but announcing that a new, authentic currency has been declared legal tender by the King, and all other currencies are now counterfeit. The call to repentance is to stop dealing in the old, false currencies, and the call to loyalty is to begin trading exclusively with the new, true currency of the King. Baptism is publicly exchanging your old currency for the new, showing everyone your allegiance to the King’s economy. (foreign currency in exchange for new?)

Application and Takeaways – “Preach the Good News about Jesus wherever you go, through your life, your actions, and when needed, through your words.”

1. Our Gospel Proclamation Must Be Christ-Centered and Kingdom-Focused

Summary: Our primary task is to proclaim Jesus as the rightful Lord and King, announcing the arrival of His kingdom and inviting people to transfer their allegiance to Him.

Narrative & Illustration: In the early church, the message was always about Jesus—who He was, what He did, and what He had become (Lord and Messiah). It wasn’t primarily about rules or even about a ticket to heaven after death, though those are outcomes of His Lordship. It was about His present reign and the call to enter His kingdom here and now.

Consider the announcement of a new era following a significant historical event, such as the end of a long war. The focus isn’t on obscure regulations or personal benefits in the distant future. It’s on the decisive victory, the new leadership, and the immediate call for people to join the new order and rebuild society under the new peace.

In our modern context, we sometimes dilute the Gospel by focusing on peripheral issues or by reducing it to merely personal comfort. We need to recapture the boldness and clarity of the early apostles. Our proclamation should begin and end with Jesus: His life, His death, His resurrection, and His enthronement as Lord. It should invite people to a radical allegiance to Him, acknowledging His reign over all aspects of life. Are we inviting people to a private belief system, or to a public transfer of loyalty to King Jesus and His kingdom?

2. We Must Connect the Gospel to the Whole Story of God

Summary: Understanding and proclaiming the Gospel effectively requires connecting Jesus’ story to the overarching narrative of God’s redemptive plan found in the Old Testament, showing how He fulfills God’s promises.

Narrative & Illustration: The early apostles, even when speaking to Gentiles like the Athenians (Acts 17), didn’t just present Jesus in a vacuum. They contextualized Him within God’s dealings with humanity, His creation, His judgment, and His ultimate purpose. They were masters at showing how Jesus was the culmination of God’s historical work.

Imagine trying to understand a complex play by only watching the final act. You might grasp some immediate events, but the deeper meaning, the character’s motivations, and the resolution would be lost without the context of the preceding acts. The Old Testament is the essential “preceding acts” of God’s grand redemptive play.

In our time, many people, especially younger generations, are spiritually curious but disconnected from historical narratives. They may not be familiar with the Bible or understand its overarching narrative. Our task is to demonstrate that Jesus is not a stand-alone figure, but rather the culmination of a divine drama that began in Genesis and spans all of human history. This involves helping people see how God has been working through covenants, prophets, and a chosen people to bring about His ultimate plan of salvation in Jesus. When we share the Gospel, are we merely presenting a fact, or are we telling a compelling story—God’s story—that finds its ultimate meaning in Jesus?

3. Proclaiming the Gospel Requires Both Courage and Context

Summary: Being a witness for Jesus, as the scattered believers were, requires both the courage to speak about Him and the wisdom to adapt the message to the cultural and historical context of our listeners, sometimes employing interpretive methods like midrash.

Narrative & Illustration: The believers scattered from Jerusalem didn’t wait for perfect conditions. They “preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went” (Acts 8:4, NLT). This took immense courage, especially given the persecution they faced. But it also required wisdom and contextualization. Philip explaining Isaiah to the Ethiopian eunuch is a perfect example of adapting the message to the listener’s immediate understanding. Paul, in Athens, appeals to their unknown god and philosophers before revealing Jesus (Acts 17).

The early Jewish believers also employed a method of interpretation called midrash. This wasn’t about changing the original meaning of a text, but about finding deeper, often imaginative, connections between ancient Scriptures and their contemporary realities, especially in light of Jesus. For example, when Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:4 says the Israelites “all drank of that spiritual rock that followed them, and that rock was Christ,” he isn’t saying we should rewrite Numbers 20. He’s making a midrashic connection, showing a profound spiritual parallel. It’s like a beloved old song taking on new meaning in a current situation. It is similar to The Chronicles of Narnia, where Aslan, the mighty lion, represents Jesus Christ, the King.

Think of an ancient fisherman. He knows his craft, he has his nets, and he’s courageous enough to face the unpredictable sea. But a truly effective fisherman doesn’t just cast his net blindly. He studies the currents, understands the habits of the fish, and chooses the right bait and location. His extensive knowledge of the context matches his courage.

In our world today, the Gospel message remains constant, but the “fishing grounds” are constantly changing. We live in a diverse, pluralistic society where people come from vastly different backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences. Our courage to speak about Jesus must be paired with the wisdom to understand our audience. This means listening, asking questions, and seeking to understand their worldview before we speak. It means identifying common ground, acknowledging their questions, and then, prayerfully, introducing Jesus as the answer to their deepest longings, just as the early apostles did. It’s about being faithful to the message while being sensitive to the messenger’s context, and perhaps even finding creative, midrashic ways to connect ancient truth to modern lives without altering the original meaning of Scripture. This is why I often use object lessons in my messages, making them more relatable.

Think about how masterfully Stephen, in Acts 7, adapted his dialog to his audience—walking them through the entire Old Testament in his dialog. Jesus was a master storyteller through His parables. We can learn a great deal from His example.

So, my charge for this week is to Learn to tell good stories and weave the Good News into your everyday life when you have conversations with others.

Closing Prayer

Almighty God, we are humbled by the immense privilege of proclaiming Your Gospel. Thank You for revealing Jesus as Lord and Messiah, and for the unfolding of Your kingdom. Grant us the courage of the early believers, that we might boldly speak of Jesus wherever we go. Give us wisdom to interpret Your ancient story for a modern world, always pointing to Your Son as the fulfillment of all prophecy. And strengthen us, by Your Holy Spirit, to be faithful witnesses who invite others to turn, trust, and be loyal to Jesus, our Savior and King. May Your name be glorified through our lives and our proclamation. Amen.

Next week will be our mission Sunday with the Filsingers, and then in two weeks, we will cover Lesson 9 in our New Testament Orientation series. Our ninth lesson will cover The Letters of Paul. The core verse is: Romans 1:16-17