Welcome to Day 2680 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2680 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 78:9-16 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2680

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2680 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: Remembering God’s Wonders, Recalling Our Failures – A Trek Through Psalm 78:9-16

Today, we continue our crucial and comprehensive trek through Psalm 78 in the New Living Translation, encompassing verses 9 through 16.

In our last conversation, we opened Psalm 78, a powerful didactic psalm by Asaph. We heard his solemn call for God’s people to listen to his “teaching” and “parables” – profound truths from their collective past. The purpose was clear: to ensure that the next generation would “not hide these truths from our children,” but would learn from history, set their “hope anew on God,” obey His commands, and avoid being “stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful” like their ancestors (Psalm 78:1-8). Asaph was setting the stage for a critical history lesson, explaining why it was so vital to pass on the glorious deeds of the Lord.

Now, Asaph begins that very history lesson, starting with a stark example of early Israelite failure, followed immediately by a powerful reminder of God’s overwhelming, miraculous power during the Exodus and wilderness journey. This juxtaposition is key: human unfaithfulness contrasted with divine faithfulness. It challenges us to examine our own patterns of forgetting God’s past goodness when faced with new trials.

So, let’s lean in and absorb the hard-learned lessons and awe-inspiring wonders of Israel’s early history.

(Reads Psalm 78:9-11 NLT)

The men of Ephraim, though armed with bows, turned and fled on the day of battle. They did not keep God’s covenant; they refused to live by his law. They forgot what he had done— the wonderful miracles he had shown them.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Asaph immediately plunges into a painful historical example of Israelite failure, focusing on a prominent tribe: “The men of Ephraim, though armed with bows, turned and fled on the day of battle.” Ephraim was a powerful and numerous tribe, the descendants of Joseph, and often held a leadership role in the Northern Kingdom. The “bow” was a significant weapon in ancient warfare, implying they were well-equipped and prepared for battle. Yet, despite their military readiness, they “turned and fled” when it counted most – “on the day of battle.” This wasn’t a strategic retreat; it was a humiliating defection, a failure of courage and commitment.

This military failure, however, was not simply due to a lack of skill or strength. Asaph reveals its deeper, spiritual root: “They did not keep God’s covenant; they refused to live by his law.” Their military cowardice was a symptom of their spiritual unfaithfulness. The “covenant” (berit) was the foundational agreement between God and Israel, establishing their relationship and responsibilities. God’s “law” (torah) provided the divine instructions for righteous living. Their failure in battle stemmed from their refusal to adhere to these divine principles. Disobedience to God’s commands and a broken covenant relationship weakened them far more than any enemy army.

The ultimate reason for their spiritual decline and subsequent military defeat was their forgetfulness: “They forgot what he had done—the wonderful miracles he had shown them.” This is a recurring theme throughout Psalm 78 and indeed, throughout Israel’s history. Despite witnessing incredible demonstrations of God’s power – “wonderful miracles” (pele’), those astonishing, supernatural acts – they simply “forgot.” This forgetting wasn’t just a lapse of memory; it was a spiritual amnesia, a failure to internalize and remember God’s past faithfulness, which would have fueled their trust and obedience in the present. This profound forgetfulness led directly to their covenant-breaking and their failure in battle.

This serves as a powerful warning. We can be well-equipped, prepared, and seemingly strong, but if our hearts are not aligned with God’s covenant, if we refuse to live by His commands, and if we forget His past faithfulness, we too can falter and flee when the “day of battle” arrives. Asaph wants the next generation to see this pattern and avoid it.

Now, Asaph transitions from this painful example of human failure to a vivid recounting of God’s awe-inspiring deeds, the very miracles Israel forgot. This juxtaposition highlights God’s unwavering faithfulness despite Israel’s rebellion.

(Reads Psalm 78:12-16 NLT)

For he did miracles in the sight of their ancestors in the land of Egypt, in the region of Zoan. For instance, he divided the Red Sea and led them through, making the water stand up like walls! In the daytime he led them with a cloud, and all night with a glowing fire. He split the rocks in the wilderness to give them water, as from a gushing spring. He made streams flow from the rock, making water flow like a river.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Having highlighted Israel’s failure to remember, Asaph now meticulously details the very acts of God that they forgot. He begins with the astounding wonders in Egypt: “For he did miracles in the sight of their ancestors in the land of Egypt, in the region of Zoan.” The miracles were not hidden; they were performed “in the sight of their ancestors”—publicly, demonstrably, undeniably. “Zoan” was a prominent city in the Nile Delta, often associated with Pharaoh’s residence, underscoring the public nature of God’s display of power against Egypt. This sets the stage for the plagues, which were powerful judgments against the Egyptian gods and a clear demonstration of Yahweh’s supremacy.

Asaph then focuses on the quintessential miracle of the Exodus: “For instance, he divided the Red Sea and led them through, making the water stand up like walls!” This is the foundational act of redemption for Israel, a moment of unparalleled divine intervention. God’s act of “divid[ing] the Red Sea” was not merely a natural phenomenon; it was a miraculous demonstration of His power over chaos and nature, creating a dry path through an impassable barrier. The imagery of the “water stand[ing] up like walls” vividly conveys the supernatural control God exerted over the mighty waters, ensuring His people’s safe passage and the destruction of their pursuers. This was an undeniable proof of God’s saving power.

God’s continuous guidance in the wilderness is then recounted: “In the daytime he led them with a cloud, and all night with a glowing fire.” This refers to the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22). This was God’s constant, visible presence among His people, guiding them through the wilderness, providing shade from the scorching sun, and light in the darkness. It was a tangible, daily reminder of His faithfulness, leadership, and protection, ensuring they never lost their way, even in a desolate and dangerous environment.

Despite this constant guidance, the wilderness remained a challenging place, yet God met their most fundamental need: water. “He split the rocks in the wilderness to give them water, as from a gushing spring. He made streams flow from the rock, making water flow like a river.” This refers to at least two instances where God miraculously provided water from solid rock (Exodus 17:6 at Rephidim and Numbers 20:11 at Kadesh). This was not a trickle; it was “as from a gushing spring,” enough to make “streams flow…like a river” in the parched desert. This was an incredible act of sustenance, highlighting God’s power to provide life-giving resources in the most impossible circumstances, ensuring the survival of over a million people and their livestock. It was a direct response to their thirst, a profound demonstration of God’s care and ability to sustain His people even in the barren “wastelands” (as Psalm 74:7 describes).

This section of Psalm 78 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s overwhelming power, His constant presence, and His miraculous provision for His people. It contrasts sharply with the Ephraimites’ failure to remember and obey.

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

Firstly, the story of Ephraim serves as a stark warning: outward strength, preparedness, or even spiritual gifts mean nothing if we fail to keep God’s covenant, refuse to live by His law, and forget His past faithfulness. Our spiritual posture dictates our effectiveness more than our natural abilities.

Secondly, this psalm powerfully reminds us of God’s undeniable interventions in history. When we are tempted to forget, to doubt, or to despair (as Asaph did in Psalm 77), we must intentionally recall God’s “wonderful miracles” – His splitting of the sea, His leading by cloud and fire, His provision of water from rock. These historical truths are anchors for our present faith.

Thirdly, God’s faithfulness is magnified in contrast to human unfaithfulness. Even when Israel failed, God consistently provided and led. This underscores His unchanging character and His boundless grace. He does not stop being faithful simply because we forget or rebel.

Finally, this psalm, as part of Asaph’s “teaching” for future generations, calls us to remember and tell these stories. Not just as interesting historical anecdotes, but as profound lessons that shape our hope in God, inspire our obedience, and prevent us from repeating the mistakes of forgetting God’s glorious deeds.

Let us commit to remembering God’s wonders, learning from the past, and living in faithful obedience, so that we may not be like those who forgot His mighty acts and stumbled.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Thank you for joining me on this profound trek through Psalm 78:9-16. I trust that this exploration of remembering God’s wonders and learning from past failures has resonated with your own journey and equipped you to be a more effective teller of God’s glorious deeds. Join me again next time as we continue to seek and apply the timeless truths of God’s Word. Until then, keep moving forward, enjoy the journey, and create a great day! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, reminding you to Live Abundantly, Love Unconditionally, Listen Intentionally, Learn Continuously, Lend to others Generously, Lead with Integrity, and Leave a Living Legacy each day.

 

Welcome to Day 2679 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2679 – New Testament Orientation – “The Church, Salvation, and Eschatology: God’s Unfolding Plan”

Putnam Church Message – 07/20/2025

Sermon Series: New Testament Orientation Message 12: “The Church, Salvation, and Eschatology: God’s Unfolding Plan” 

Last week, we explored “The General Letters of the New Testament:” 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NLT)  9 But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests,[a] a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 10 “Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God’s people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God’s mercy.”[b]

This week is the 12th and final message in our New Testament Orientation Series, and we will learn: The Church, Salvation, and Eschatology: God’s Unfolding Plan” Ephesians 2:13-14 (NLT) “But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ. For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united us both into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us.”Opening PrayerOur Loving and Sovereign God, as we reach the culmination of our journey through Your New Testament, we pause to reflect on the grand tapestry of Your plan for Your Church, for our salvation, and the culmination of all things. We pray that You would open our eyes to see these profound truths with the clarity and anticipation of the early believers. May we grasp the depth of Your reconciliation, the wonder of Your salvation, and the glorious hope of Your coming kingdom. Empower us, by Your Spirit, to live as Your unified people, eagerly awaiting the Day of Christ. Amen.Introduction: The Final Unveiling of God’s Purpose

We’ve journeyed from the Jewish roots of the Gospels, through the explosive growth in Acts, and explored the profound theology of Paul’s letters and the General Epistles. Today, we bring it all together by considering three essential topics that define the conclusion of God’s unfolding story: the Church, the nature of Salvation, and Eschatology—the doctrine of last things.

Our core verses from Ephesians 2:13-14 serve as a magnificent summary of the radical new reality Jesus inaugurated: “But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ. For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united us both into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us.” This passage speaks of a profound reconciliation, not just between humanity and God, but between the two great divisions of humanity: Jew and Gentile. This reconciliation defines the very nature of the Church.

For the early believers, these concepts were not abstract theological debates, but lived realities. They were grappling with what it meant to be God’s people in a world that often misunderstood or persecuted them, and how their ancient hopes for a Messiah and a coming kingdom were now being realized in unexpected ways.

3. The Church: A New, Reconciled Community – (Bulletin Insert)

The Church, or ekklesia (meaning “assembly” or “group”), in the New Testament is primarily understood not as a building, but as a dynamic, Spirit-formed community of believers—Jew and Gentile—reconciled to God and to one another through Christ’s work on the cross, forming a radical new “people” never before seen in human history.Narrative & Illustration: When early Christians spoke of the “church” (ekklesia in Greek), they didn’t envision brick-and-mortar buildings. That concept of a dedicated structure for worship developed centuries later. For them, the ekklesia was a gathering, an assembly—often meeting in homes or villas on the first day of the week, the Lord’s Day.

Paul observed a unique dynamic unfolding in these early gatherings. On one end were non-Messianic Jews, who lived by the Torah. On the other hand, outright pagans. But in the middle were “God-fearers”—Gentiles like Cornelius (Acts 10) who honored Yahweh but did not fully convert to Judaism. The challenge for the early church was to integrate these diverse groups into a cohesive family. Paul’s answer? A “new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17) in Christ, an inter-tribal, multi-ethnic community that transcended all previous human divisions.

The concept of reconciliation in the New Testament, especially in Paul’s letters, is often presented as a horizontal issue: Jew and Gentile being reconciled to each other. While reconciliation between sinners and God is certainly present, the radical thrust of verses like Ephesians 2:13-14 is about Christ breaking down the “wall of hostility” that separated these two groups. The cross didn’t just deal with individual sin; it created a unified body, allowing all believers to join their voices in worship to God and Jesus, together as one reconciled family.

Furthermore, the early Church’s ethical teachings were fundamentally shaped by this new community. Unlike pagan religions, which often had little connection between deity worship and daily morality, Christian faith demanded a transformed life. Paul’s lists of virtues and vices (like those in 1 Timothy 5-6) were not merely for individual self-improvement. They provided a “code of conduct” for diverse individuals, lacking shared traditions, to live together harmoniously as a new community. Vices were seen as “anti-communal” (e.g., gossip, division), while virtues were “pro-communal” (e.g., love, joy, peace, patience, which are the fruit of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23). The church was an experiment in living together, in flexible unity, centered on loyalty to Jesus.

Imagine an ancient marketplace where merchants from vastly different tribes—each with their own laws, customs, and gods—are trying to trade. Mistrust and misunderstanding are rampant; they refuse to eat together or intermarry. Then, a charismatic leader (Jesus) arrives and declares a new, universal marketplace where all are welcome, not by abandoning their heritage entirely, but by pledging loyalty to him. His followers, the Church, are then expected to embody this new unity, living in a way that prioritizes communal harmony over tribal customs, even sharing meals and resources across old divides.

Object Lesson: Imagine an ancient, carefully constructed wall, made of two different types of stone, with a deep chasm between them. (Brick and foundation stone) One side is perfectly cut limestone (representing the distinctness of Israel), the other is rough, unhewn granite (representing the pagan world). The gap itself signifies the “hostility” and separation between Jew and Gentile. |Christ, in His body on the cross, is like a mighty, divine force that smashes the wall into rubble, and then, with His life, begins to perfectly fuse (Cement) the different stones together into a single, unified, living structure—the Church—where the old dividing line is gone.

3. Salvation: Continual Loyalty and Transformation

New Testament salvation is a profound continuation of God’s unchanging plan to make humanity righteous through loyalty (faith) to Him. This loyalty, now explicitly centered on Jesus Christ, results in a transformed life of active devotion, leading to an ongoing state of purification and fellowship with God, rather than merely a transaction for escaping future judgment.Narrative & Illustration: The New Testament understanding of salvation is not a radical departure from the Old Testament, but its glorious culmination and universal extension. The way to become “righteous” or “right with God” has always been through loyalty or faith (aman in Hebrew, pistis in Greek). Abraham was “counted as righteous because he believed God” (Romans 4:3, NLT), meaning he was loyal to Yahweh, turning from the gods of Babylon. This identical principle applies in the New Testament.

The transition, however, is monumental: loyalty now centers on Jesus Christ. When the Philippian jailer asked, “What must I do to be saved?” Paul and Silas replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:30-31, NLT). This meant pledging allegiance to Jesus as Lord, the One God raised from the dead (Romans 10:9). This loyalty isn’t just a mental assent; it’s a profound commitment that transforms one’s life.

Salvation in the New Testament is also intricately linked to purification. As we explored last time, the Old Testament sacrificial system primarily functioned to remove ritual “stain” or “taboo,” allowing people to approach God’s holy presence. Jesus’ death is the ultimate, once-for-all purification offering. Verses like “the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7, NLT) refer not to a daily earning of forgiveness for moral missteps, but to a continuous state of ritual cleanliness, enabling ongoing fellowship with God. It’s not about paying a penalty to avoid hell, but about making us fit to enter and remain in God’s holy presence.

Imagine a loyal servant in an ancient king’s court. Their “salvation” isn’t just about avoiding the king’s wrath, but about being recognized as a trusted member of the royal household, enjoying the king’s favor, and having free access to his presence. If they occasionally become ritually “unclean” (like touching a dead animal), the king has provided a special cleansing bath for them. Their status as a loyal servant isn’t revoked; they need to be purified to continue their service and access. Jesus’ sacrifice is that ultimate, perfect bath, ensuring we remain continually pure in God’s sight, able to approach Him freely.

Object Lesson: Imagine a magnificent, ornate tapestry, ancient and deeply meaningful, that has been meticulously woven over centuries. Threads are added through generations, each one continuing the story. The Old Testament represents the earlier, yet foundational, weaving. The New Testament adds new, brilliant threads (Jesus, His death, resurrection, Spirit) that bring the patterns to their ultimate, universal culmination, completing the tapestry. Salvation is not a new tapestry, but the continuation of the single, unfolding narrative of God making a people for Himself, now with an even richer, more inclusive design that welcomes all colors and textures of thread through loyalty to the Master Weaver.

3. Eschatology: The Certainty of Christ’s Reign and Cosmic Restoration

New Testament eschatology, or the doctrine of last things, envisions a two-part future: the present age, where Christ reigns but spiritual powers still exert influence, and a coming age—the Day of Christ—when His kingdom will be fully established, bringing universal judgment, cosmic restoration (a remade heavens and earth), and the complete triumph of God over all spiritual and physical opposition.Narrative & Illustration: The early Christians lived with a profound sense of anticipation. While Paul believed Christ would return in his lifetime, their understanding of “last things” was simpler than many modern theological systems. They knew there was “this age” and “the age to come,” or “the Kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22). They understood that while Satan had been defeated at Jesus’ temptation (Luke 4), and Jesus now reigned as Lord, the “principalities and powers”—the Old Testament “gods” over the nations—still held sway in some capacities.

The “Day of the Lord,” prophesied in the Old Testament as Yahweh’s powerful intervention to judge wickedness and establish His rule (e.g., Isaiah 2), becomes the “Day of Christ” in the New Testament. This signifies Jesus’ central role as judge and king. As Jesus declared, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you” (Matthew 25:34, NLT), and to others, “Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels” (Matthew 25:41, NLT).

Paul’s writings, particularly Romans 2 and 14, emphasize a universal judgment: “God will give to each person according to what they have done” (Romans 2:6, NLT). Everyone, Christian and non-Christian alike, will stand before the judgment seat of Christ (Romans 14:10). This is not about earning salvation, but about rendering an account of the life lived. This was a core Jewish belief that became central to the early Christian worldview.

The ultimate end, for believers, is the new Global Eden where heaven and earth become one. (Revelation 21-22), where God will dwell with humanity. This is not just a disembodied heaven; it’s a restored creation, where mortality is swallowed up by life (2 Corinthians 5:4). The wicked, including the devil and his “angels” (the rebellious spiritual beings), face destruction, symbolized by the “lake of fire” (Revelation 20:10). While the nature of this final punishment is debated (eternal conscious torment vs. annihilationism vs. conditional immortality), the Bible consistently paints a picture of ultimate justice and the triumph of God’s holiness.

The awe-inspiring conclusion to Paul’s argument in 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 beautifully illustrates the final cosmic victory: 24 After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. 25 For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. 26 And the last enemy to be destroyed is death. 27 For the Scriptures say, “God has put all things under his authority.”[a] (Of course, when it says “all things are under his authority,” that does not include God himself, who gave Christ his authority.) 28 Then, when all things are under his authority, the Son will put himself under God’s authority, so that God, who gave his Son authority over all things, will be utterly supreme over everything everywhere. This truly brings the divine council worldview of the Old Testament to its climactic and victorious conclusion, where redeemed humanity will even “judge angels” (1 Corinthians 6:3)

Imagine a vast, ancient cosmic drama unfolding on a stage. For millennia, a complex interplay of characters has existed—the benevolent Creator (Yahweh), His rebellious divine creatures (the pagan gods/principalities), and a struggling humanity. Then, the true protagonist (Jesus) enters, defeats the primary antagonist (Satan), and reigns as the rightful King, but the full resolution is yet to come. The “final act” of this drama, the Day of Christ, will see the King return to fully reclaim the stage, banish all remaining rebellious characters, and establish a new, perfect setting where His loyal subjects (the Church) will live forever in His presence, participating in His reign.

Object Lesson: Imagine a magnificent, unblemished royal scepter, which symbolizes ultimate authority and dominion. This scepter is currently held firmly by the King (Yahweh), and now, by His decree, also by His Son (Jesus). The eschatological vision is the final, visible act where all rival powers and authorities are broken and cast down, and the royal scepter is displayed universally, unquestioned, and eternal. The scepter will then rest entirely with the Father, having accomplished its full purpose through the Son, signifying perfect, enduring peace and the absolute triumph of God’s will.

1. Application and Takeaways – “But now you have been united in Christ.” Bulletin
3. Live as a Unified People, Embodying Christ’s Reconciliation

Summary:As the Church, we are called to embody the profound reconciliation Christ achieved on the cross, actively breaking down social, ethnic, and cultural barriers, and demonstrating radical unity and love to a divided world.Narrative & Illustration: The reality of the early church, where Jews and Gentiles, former enemies, were brought into one family, was astounding. Paul’s emphasis on reconciliation wasn’t just theological; it was deeply practical. It challenged them to share meals, worship together, and view each other not by their old tribal identities, but by their new identity in Christ. This often meant setting aside personal preferences and even deeply ingrained cultural norms for the sake of unity.

Consider our modern nation, which is deeply polarized by political divides. Citizens often refuse to associate with those holding opposing views, retreating into their own ideological “tribes.” The Church, by contrast, is called to be a living counter-cultural witness. When Christians from different racial backgrounds, socio-economic classes, or political persuasions genuinely love, serve, and worship together, they are a powerful testament to the reconciling power of the cross. Our mission is to embody this radical unity, demonstrating to the world what true peace and reconciliation look like in practice.

3. Embrace a Life of Active Loyalty and Continual Purification

Summary:True salvation is an ongoing state of active loyalty to Jesus, not a one-time transaction, and results in a continual purification that empowers us to live righteously and in intimate fellowship with God.Narrative & Illustration: The New Testament consistently presents salvation as a dynamic reality rooted in loyalty (faith) to Jesus. It’s a continuous state of being “made right with God,” not merely earning forgiveness. This loyalty, demonstrated through righteous living and active worship, brings us into a continuous state of purification through Christ’s sacrifice. We are not “saved by works,” but a truly saved person, loyal to Jesus, will inevitably live a life of good works, because that is the outflow of their renewed heart.

Imagine a loyal soldier who has pledged allegiance to their king. Their loyalty is not just a verbal declaration; it’s a daily commitment expressed through discipline, obedience, and self-sacrifice. If they get “dirty” in battle, the king provides a cleansing provision, but their loyalty is what defines them.

In our Christian lives, this means salvation isn’t a check-the-box event we look back on, |but a daily, active allegiance to Jesus. We live in a state of ongoing purification because of His finished work. This empowers us to pursue holiness not out of fear of losing salvation, but out of love and loyalty to our King. Our focus should be on who we are loyal to, allowing that loyalty to transform how we live, knowing that God delights in our righteous actions as expressions of our devotion.

3. Live with Hope and Purpose in the Present Age, Anticipating Christ’s Full Reign

Summary:We are called to live with purposeful hope in the present age, understanding that while Christ has definitively defeated spiritual powers, His kingdom is not yet fully established. This anticipation motivates us to engage the world and endure trials, trusting in His inevitable return and ultimate cosmic triumph.Narrative & Illustration: The early Christians lived in the tension of the “already and not yet”—Christ had come, defeated Satan, and inaugurated His kingdom, but His full reign was yet to be realized. This understanding allowed them to endure immense persecution (as highlighted in Peter’s letters) and to faithfully serve in a world still under the influence of evil. Their hope was fixed on Christ’s inevitable return, the final judgment, and the glorious new heavens and new earth.

Consider an ancient general who has decisively won a significant battle, crippling the enemy’s leadership and securing a strategic stronghold. The war is effectively over, but mop-up operations continue, pockets of resistance remain, and the full establishment of peace and order across the entire territory is still underway. The general’s soldiers live with the certainty of victory, but also with the ongoing task of securing the territory and facing remaining dangers.

In our current world, we inhabit the same reality. While Jesus is Lord and King, we still see evil, injustice, and suffering. This shouldn’t surprise or discourage us. We are called to live with purposeful hope, actively engaging in the work of God’s kingdom here on earth, knowing that Christ will return to fully put all things right. This means enduring trials, resisting evil, and proclaiming the good news, all while confidently anticipating the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. This is the magnificent conclusion to God’s story, and we are privileged to be a part of it.

Closing PrayerAlmighty God, as we conclude this New Testament Orientation, our hearts overflow with gratitude for Your magnificent plan of redemption. Thank You for establishing Your Church as a reconciled, unified people, for revealing Your salvation through loyalty to Jesus, and for the glorious hope of Your coming> kingdom. May we, Your faithful people, continue to embody the truth of Christ’s cross, living in profound unity, active loyalty, and unwavering hope. Strengthen us, by Your Spirit, to be Your witnesses until the Day of Christ, when Your reign will be fully established, and You will be “all in all.” To You be all glory, honor, and praise, now and forever. Amen.

Next week, we will switch back to a series of systematic studies of New Testament letters, covering 1, 2, and 3 John, and then Jude, which will take us up to Thanksgiving. Our message for next week will be Introduction: 1, 2 & 3 John. Our Core verse for next week will be:  1 John 1:4

Welcome to Day 2678 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2678 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 78:1-8 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2678

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2678 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: Passing on the Legacy – Learning from Our Past – A Trek Through Psalm 78:1-8

(Intro Music: Reflective, instructive theme fades in and out)

Today, we begin a crucial and comprehensive trek through Psalm 78 in the New Living Translation, encompassing its foundational verses, 1 through 8.

Psalm 78, like Psalms 73 through Pslam 77, is attributed to Asaph, one of King David’s chief musicians and a prophet. However, this psalm stands out as one of the longest in the Psalter, acting as a grand historical narrative. It’s a didactic psalm, meaning its primary purpose is to teach. After Asaph’s personal spiritual crisis in Psalm 73, his communal lament in Psalm 74, and his triumphant declarations in Psalms 75-77 that anchored his faith in God’s past deeds, Psalm 78 now explicitly lays out the vital importance of recounting that history, not just for reassurance, but for instruction.

This psalm, often referred to as a “history lesson,” delves deep into Israel’s past, recounting their repeated cycles of rebellion and God’s unwavering faithfulness. But it’s not merely a historical record; it’s a living lesson for every generation, particularly for the youth. In the ancient Israelite worldview, the transmission of national and spiritual heritage was paramount, ensuring that future generations understood their identity, their covenant with God, and the consequences of obedience and disobedience. This psalm is a powerful call for elders to teach and for the young to listen, so they can break the cycle of past failures.

So, let’s lean in and absorb the wisdom of this profound call to remember and learn.

(Reads Psalm 78:1-4 NLT)

O my people, listen to my teaching. Open your ears to what I say. For I will speak to you in parables; I will explain mysteries from the past— stories we have heard and known, stories our ancestors handed down to us. We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders.

Guthrie Chamberlain: The psalm opens with an urgent and authoritative call to attention from Asaph, the teacher: “O my people, listen to my teaching. Open your ears to what I say.” This isn’t a casual invitation; it’s a solemn command, delivered with the weight of someone who has profound and essential truths to impart. “My people” emphasizes his pastoral care and his sense of shared destiny with the community. The call to “listen” and “open your ears” highlights the critical importance of receptive hearts and attentive minds for what is about to be revealed.

Asaph describes the nature of his instruction: “For I will speak to you in parables; I will explain mysteries from the past.” The Hebrew word for “parables” (mashal) here can also mean proverbs, riddles, or dark sayings. It implies profound truths often expressed through symbolic language or illustrative narratives that require careful thought and understanding. These are not simple stories, but deep insights derived from historical events, containing layers of meaning. The “mysteries from the past” (chida) are profound historical lessons, hidden truths that aren’t immediately obvious but reveal God’s character and His ways with humanity. Asaph is not just recounting facts; he is unveiling divine patterns and principles embedded within their history.

These are not new revelations, but a retelling of shared heritage: “stories we have heard and known, stories our ancestors handed down to us.” This emphasizes the continuous chain of oral tradition. These narratives are part of their collective memory, passed down from generation to generation. Asaph is reminding them of what they should already know, or perhaps, what they have forgotten or misinterpreted. This communal memory is the bedrock of their identity as God’s covenant people.

The immediate and paramount purpose of this teaching is then powerfully stated: “We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders.” This is a direct command, a firm commitment. The preceding generation has a sacred duty not to “hide these truths.” Hiding them would be a profound betrayal of their heritage and a spiritual disservice to their children. Instead, they must actively “tell the next generation” about God’s “glorious deeds” (His acts of salvation and judgment), His “power” (His inherent might), and His “mighty wonders” (His miracles).

This commitment to intergenerational teaching is a recurring theme in the Psalms and the Torah (Deuteronomy 6:7, “Teach them to your children and to their children after them”). For an ancient Israelite, passing on the knowledge of God’s redemptive history was the primary way to ensure the continuity of their faith and their covenant relationship. It was how they shaped the identity and values of future generations, ensuring they understood who God was and what He required. Asaph’s solemn promise sets the stage for a thorough historical recounting.

Imagine a nation’s foundational documents and heroic stories. They are not merely preserved in archives but are actively retold, taught, and celebrated in homes and schools, ensuring that every new citizen understands their heritage and responsibility. For Israel, this was even more crucial, as their very existence, their identity, and their laws were intertwined with God’s history with them.

Now, let’s continue our trek with verses 5 through 8, where Asaph delves deeper into the divine purpose behind this historical instruction – to ensure future generations know and obey God, unlike their rebellious ancestors.

(Reads Psalm 78:5-8 NLT)

For he issued his laws to Jacob; he gave his instructions to Israel. He commanded our ancestors to teach them to their children, so the next generation might know them— even the children not yet born— and they in turn will teach their own children. So each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his commands. Then they will not be like their ancestors— stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful, refusing to give their hearts to God.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Asaph emphasizes the divine origin and authoritative nature of this tradition: “For he issued his laws to Jacob; he gave his instructions to Israel.” This refers to the giving of the Law (Torah) at Mount Sinai, the covenant made with Israel. God Himself was the author of their laws and instructions, making them supremely authoritative and foundational to their society and faith. This was not merely human wisdom but divine revelation.

And this divine revelation came with a divine command for transmission: “He commanded our ancestors to teach them to their children, so the next generation might know them—even the children not yet born—and they in turn will teach their own children.” This outlines a multi-generational imperative. The command was given directly to the ancestors. The purpose was for “the next generation” (including those “not yet born”) to “know them”—not just intellectually, but experientially, to internalize these truths. The responsibility then falls upon them to “in turn…teach their own children.” This creates an unbroken, perpetual chain of spiritual instruction across time, designed to prevent the loss of divine knowledge and covenant relationship.

The ultimate goal of this intergenerational instruction is profoundly spiritual and practical: “So each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his commands.” This is the desired outcome, the purpose for recounting the past. Each new generation is meant to learn from history, not just to avoid repeating mistakes, but to actively place their “hope anew on God.” This “hope” (Hebrew: betach) signifies confident trust and security. It should be continually renewed, fresh for each generation, not a stale, inherited faith.

This renewed hope comes from two key actions: “not forgetting his glorious miracles” (recalling God’s power and intervention, as Asaph himself did in Psalm 77), and “obeying his commands” (living in alignment with God’s revealed will). The spiritual health and vitality of each generation depend on these twin pillars: remembering God’s deeds and actively obeying His word.

The psalm then provides the negative example, the very pitfall this multi-generational teaching is designed to avoid: “Then they will not be like their ancestors—stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful, refusing to give their hearts to God.” This is the painful truth about Israel’s history, which Asaph will extensively detail in the rest of Psalm 78. Their ancestors were characterized by rebellion and disobedience. They were “stubborn,” hard-hearted, resistant to God’s will. They were “rebellious,” actively defying His authority. And they were “unfaithful,” breaking their covenant promises to God.

The root of this problem was profound: “refusing to give their hearts to God.” This goes beyond outward actions to the core of their being. Their disobedience stemmed from an inward unwillingness to commit fully to God, to truly love Him with all their heart. It speaks to a lack of genuine devotion, a superficial relationship with the Almighty. Asaph’s warning is clear: learning from history means actively choosing a different path than that of their unfaithful forefathers.

Psalm 78:1-8 serves as a powerful prologue to a comprehensive history lesson. It is a profound call to remember, to teach, and to learn from the past, so that future generations might set their hope on God, obey His commands, and avoid the tragic pitfalls of their rebellious ancestors.

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

Firstly, these verses emphasize the crucial responsibility of transmitting faith and truth across generations. Whether we are parents, grandparents, mentors, or leaders, we have a sacred duty to “tell the next generation” about God’s “glorious deeds, his power and his mighty wonders.”

Secondly, true spiritual education involves more than just factual knowledge; it’s about explaining the “mysteries from the past,” uncovering the deep principles and patterns of God’s ways embedded in history. It’s about discerning the “why” behind the events.

Thirdly, the ultimate goal of learning from the past is not just to avoid mistakes, but to actively “set our hope anew on God.” Our faith should be fresh, vibrant, and continuously anchored in His unchanging character and His powerful actions.

Finally, Asaph’s warning about being “stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful” and “refusing to give their hearts to God” is a timeless caution. True obedience comes from a heart fully devoted to God. This psalm calls us to examine our own hearts, ensuring that we are not repeating the mistakes of those who refused to truly commit to Him.

Let us embrace our role in this continuous chain of faith, learning from the past, living faithfully in the present, and passing on a vibrant legacy of hope in God to all who come after us.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Thank you for joining me on this foundational trek through the opening verses of Psalm 78. I trust that this exploration of intergenerational faith and learning from history has resonated with your own journey and equipped you to be a more effective teller of God’s wonderful deeds. Join me again next time as we continue to seek and apply the timeless truths of God’s Word. Until then, keep moving forward, enjoy the journey, and create a great day! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, reminding you to Live Abundantly, Love Unconditionally, Listen Intentionally, Learn Continuously, Lend to others Generously, Lead with Integrity, and Leave a Living Legacy each day.

 

Welcome to Day 2677 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2677 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 77:13-20 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2677

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2677 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 Unseen Path of the Unchanging God – Concluding Our Trek Through Psalm 77:13-20

Today, we reach the powerful and awe-inspiring conclusion of our trek through Psalm 77 in the New Living Translation, encompassing verses 13 through 20.

In our last conversation, we plunged into the raw, personal anguish of Asaph, the psalmist. We heard his desperate cries in the night, his sleepless torment, and the agonizing questions that plagued his soul: “Has the Lord abandoned us forever? Will he never again be kind to us? Has his unfailing love vanished forever?” He was a man drowning in doubt, unable to find comfort, even from the thought of God. But then, a pivotal moment occurred: Asaph intentionally shifted his focus, resolving to “recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago.” This act of remembering God’s ancient wonders became his lifeline, the first step out of the mire of despair.

Now, in these concluding verses, we witness the glorious outcome of that deliberate act of remembrance. Asaph’s perspective completely transforms from anguish and questioning to profound awe and unwavering trust. He no longer asks if God has changed; instead, he declares God’s unchanging holiness, His incomparable power, and His unfailing, sovereign leadership, even when His path is hidden. This is the ultimate resolution of his spiritual crisis, leading to a powerful affirmation of God as the Shepherd-King.

So, let’s allow our hearts to be filled with awe as we witness the triumph of faith over doubt, anchored in the undeniable truth of who God is and what He has done.

(Reads Psalm 77:13-15 NLT)

O God, your ways are holy. Is there any god as great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the nations. By your strong arm, you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.

Guthrie Chamberlain: The psalmist begins this section with a triumphant declaration of God’s unparalleled character, a stark contrast to his earlier questions about God’s mercy and love: “O God, your ways are holy. Is there any god as great as our God?” The word “holy” (qadosh) here signifies not just moral purity but also God’s separateness, His transcendence, His utterly unique and unapproachable majesty. God’s ways, His actions, His very nature, are completely set apart from all human imperfection and doubt. This is a foundational truth that silences all questioning.

The rhetorical question, “Is there any god as great as our God?” echoes the triumphant certainty we saw in Psalm 71, “Who can compare with you, O God?” It’s a resounding affirmation of God’s incomparability, a direct refutation of any doubt that might have crept into Asaph’s mind. There are no rival gods, no competing powers, that can match His greatness. This is a powerful declaration for an Israelite living amidst polytheistic cultures.

This incomparable God is then affirmed as the God of action: “You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the nations.” He is not a passive or distant deity. He is the one who actively “performs miracles” (pele’)—those astonishing, extraordinary deeds that demonstrate His supernatural power. And He doesn’t just do them in secret; He “displays [His] power among the nations.” This points to God’s universal renown, His public demonstration of sovereignty over all peoples, just as we saw celebrated in Psalm 76. His power is undeniable and visible to the world.

And what is the greatest of these displays of power and miracles for Israel? “By your strong arm, you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.” The “strong arm” is a classic biblical metaphor for God’s immense power and might, often associated with the Exodus. “Redeemed” (ga’al) means to buy back, to liberate from bondage, often at a great cost. This points specifically to the Exodus from Egypt, where God, with an outstretched arm, powerfully delivered Israel from slavery. “The descendants of Jacob and Joseph” specifically names the patriarchs, connecting this redemption directly to God’s covenant promises made to their ancestors. This is the bedrock of Israel’s identity and their confident hope—God’s historical, undeniable act of salvation. This remembrance is what pulls Asaph out of his spiritual abyss.

This section triumphantly declares God’s unique holiness, His unparalleled greatness, and His demonstrated power in redeeming His people.

Now, let’s move to the concluding verses, 16 through 20, where the psalmist vividly recalls the cosmic response to God’s presence during the Exodus and affirms God’s hidden but certain leadership.

(Reads Psalm 77:16-20 NLT)

When the Red Sea saw you, O God, its waters recoiled! The sea trembled with fear. The clouds poured down rain; the thunder roared in the sky, and your arrows of lightning flashed. Your thunder roared from the whirlwind; your lightning lit up the world. The earth trembled and shook. Your road led through the sea, your pathway through the mighty waters— a road no one ever saw. You led your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Asaph now vividly describes the dramatic, cosmic reaction to God’s presence during the Exodus, particularly at the Red Sea: “When the Red Sea saw you, O God, its waters recoiled! The sea trembled with fear.” This is magnificent poetic personification. The sea, a powerful and often chaotic force in ancient thought, is depicted as literally “seeing” God and responding in terror. Its waters “recoiled” (or “shrank back,” “fled”), and the entire “sea trembled with fear.” This imagery underscores God’s absolute sovereignty over creation, His power to command and control even the most untamable elements. The sea, by fleeing, participates in God’s redemptive work.

This divine manifestation was accompanied by a terrifying storm: “The clouds poured down rain; the thunder roared in the sky, and your arrows of lightning flashed. Your thunder roared from the whirlwind; your lightning lit up the world. The earth trembled and shook.” This is a description of a theophany, a dramatic appearance of God, often accompanied by natural phenomena that highlight His power. The pouring rain, roaring thunder, flashing lightning (described as God’s “arrows”), and the trembling earth all signify God’s awesome, terrifying presence. This aligns with the ancient Israelite understanding of God’s power at Sinai and in battle, as seen in Psalm 68 and 76. The elements themselves are instruments of His will, serving His redemptive purposes.

Despite this overwhelming cosmic display, God performs the miraculous act of deliverance: “Your road led through the sea, your pathway through the mighty waters—a road no one ever saw.” This is the culmination of the Red Sea crossing narrative. God created a “road” or “way” through the seemingly impassable “mighty waters,” a path for His people where no path existed. It was a miraculous, unprecedented act of salvation.

But then comes a profound spiritual insight: “a road no one ever saw.” This can be interpreted in a few ways. It means the path was literally invisible after the waters returned, leaving no trace. More deeply, it signifies that God’s ways are often inscrutable, mysterious, and beyond human comprehension. His methods of deliverance are not always clear to us in the moment. We might not see His “footprints” or understand His plans, especially when we are in the midst of the “troubles” that tormented Asaph. God works in ways that are hidden from human sight, yet His purpose is sure. This addresses the feeling of “not seeing miraculous signs” from verse 9 and the struggle to comprehend God’s actions. God’s presence and guidance are real, even when His path is unseen.

The psalm concludes with a beautiful affirmation of God’s benevolent leadership: “You led your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.” Despite the cosmic thunder and the hidden path, God is ultimately a tender Shepherd. He guided His people with care, like a flock being led by its shepherd, ensuring their safety and provision. This leadership was mediated through human instruments—Moses and Aaron—who were empowered by God to lead His people through impossible circumstances. This imagery provides immense comfort and resolution to Asaph’s earlier despair. The God who seemed to have abandoned His sheep in verse 1 is powerfully affirmed here as the faithful Shepherd who leads His flock.

Psalm 77, in its entirety, is a masterful journey from deep personal anguish and desperate questioning to profound awe and unwavering trust. It provides a timeless roadmap for navigating spiritual doubt by intentionally remembering God’s unchanging character and His undeniable history of mighty, redeeming acts.

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

Firstly, when doubt whispers questions about God’s character or His presence, we must respond by declaring His holiness and His incomparability. There is no other god like Him.

Secondly, our faith in God’s present help is anchored in His past faithfulness. By recalling His “wonderful deeds” – His miracles, His redemptive acts, His power over chaos – we build a foundation of trust that enables us to believe He will act again.

Thirdly, the image of God’s “road through the sea” being “a road no one ever saw” is a powerful reminder that God’s guidance and deliverance may not always be clear or comprehensible to us in the moment. We may not see His footprints, but He is leading us nonetheless.

Finally, even amidst overwhelming cosmic power and hidden paths, our God is ultimately a tender Shepherd. He leads His people with care and precision, ensuring their safe passage through life’s most formidable challenges. We can trust His hand, even when we don’t understand His way.

Let us, like Asaph, turn our hearts from despair to declaration, remembering God’s wonderful deeds, trusting His unseen path, and resting in the care of our Shepherd-King.

Guthrie Chamberlain: Thank you for joining me on this profound and ultimately redemptive trek through Psalm 77. I trust that this exploration of overcoming doubt and finding peace in God’s unchanging nature has deeply resonated with your own journey. 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 ‘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 2676 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – “Rules of Engagement.” – Supernatural

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2676

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2676 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 continue with the 7^th of 16 segments of our Theology Thursday lessons. I will read through the book “Supernatural,” written by Hebrew Bible scholar, professor, and mentor Dr. Michael S. Heiser, who has since passed away. 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 seven: “Rules of Engagement.”

Our story so far: God cast aside the nations and their peoples at Babel. The lesser gods assigned to them took dominion (Deut. 32:8–9). When God started over with Abraham, it was clear that he planned to one day reclaim the nations through the influence of Israel (Gen. 12:3). But the gods of the nations would have to be forced to surrender their power and worship (Ps. 82:6–8). That meant conflict—in both the seen and unseen realms. As soon as there was an Israel, she was in the crosshairs of the gods.

 Who Is Yahweh?

It doesn’t take long in the biblical story for Israel to wind up in a precarious position. The story of Joseph (Gen. 37–50) explains why Israel went to Egypt. God’s providence turned the harm intended Joseph by his brothers to the salvation of Israel from famine (Gen. 46:3–4; 50:20). That God didn’t tell Israel to leave Egypt right away was also intentional. God knew the pharaoh who honored Joseph would die and be replaced by an enemy (Ex. 1). He had foreseen that Egypt would put the Israelites into forced labor (Gen. 15:13–16). He also knew he would rescue Israel when the time was right (Gen. 46:4).

But why wait? God always has a good reason for suffering. We just can’t always see it. In this case, though, Scripture makes it clear.

After Moses had fled Egypt and taken up residence in the wilderness, God called him at the burning bush (Ex. 3:1–14) to send him back to Egypt. His orders were simple: Tell Pharaoh “Let my people go” (Ex. 5:1). Pharaoh had other ideas. He was god in the flesh in Egypt, the emblem of all its glory and power. He wasn’t going to let some invisible God of Hebrew shepherds tell him what to do. He didn’t even know whether the God of Moses was real. He mockingly replied, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice and let Israel go?” (Ex. 5:2).

He was about to get an answer—one that would hurt. God had set him up. God had told Moses, “I will harden his heart, so that he will not let the people go” (Ex. 4:21). God had a fight to pick. After they had oppressed the Israelites for centuries, it was time for Egypt and its gods to be punished. Pharaoh’s hardening was part of that plot. The Bible tells us the plagues were aimed at Egypt’s gods—especially the last one, the death of the firstborn (Ex. 12:12; Num. 33:4), which turned out to be a direct assault on Pharaoh’s house: “At midnight the Lord struck down all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sat on his throne to the firstborn of the captive who was in the dungeon, and all the firstborn of the livestock” (Ex. 12:29).

Pharaoh had mocked God, and the tables had been drastically turned. As Paul would later put it, “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap” (Gal. 6:7). The pounding Egypt took on the way to the Israelites’ release from Egypt had the desired effect. People as far away as Canaan heard about the thrashing Israel’s God had given Egypt and its gods (Josh. 2:8–10; compare to Ex. 15:16–18; Josh. 9:9). Jethro, Moses’ Midianite father-in-law, summed up the lesson when Moses finally returned: “Now I know that Yahweh is greater than all the gods” (Ex. 18:11 leb).

It’s no wonder then that Moses, on the other side of the Red Sea, asked his own rhetorical question, mocking Pharaoh and his lost army: Who is like the Lord among the gods? (Ex. 15:11).

Once out of Egypt and through the Red Sea, the Israelites knew where they were headed. They were going to meet their God at his latest earthly home and headquarters, Mount Sinai. In truth, the Israelites didn’t know much about God. There was no Bible at all in the days of the exodus. The only knowledge the Israelites had about God they had gained through stories they’d heard from their parents, passed down from generation to generation. Reading the story now in the Bible, we can clearly see what God was up to. The Israelites had a lot to learn. Sinai was the classroom.

 

Israel—God’s Family and Earthly Representatives

When Moses had stood before Pharaoh, before the exodus, he told him God had a message: “Israel is my son, my firstborn … release my son and let him serve me” (Ex. 4:22–23 leb). That idea of God having a son—in this case, referring to all of Abraham’s descendants—is important. It takes us back to God’s creation of Adam and Eve.

God wanted a human family. He wanted to live on his creation, earth, with the people he had made. He wanted his unseen family and his human family to live with him and serve him. He wanted people to multiply and for all the earth to become like Eden. But when God forsook humanity at the Tower of Babel, he had no children—until he called Abraham. Israel was God’s new family. It was time to get back to the original plan. As Adam and Eve had been God’s earthly imagers, Israel would now fill that role.

Going back to Sinai was a homecoming. Even the heavenly council was there, watching as God’s plan was put back into motion. They were witnesses to a new covenant between God and his people—the Law.

The Law of God—Delivered by God’s Council

Did it surprise you when I said the heavenly council was present at Sinai when God delivered the Ten Commandments? If you’ve ever seen a movie about the exodus and the trip to Sinai, you didn’t see angels. But the Bible says they were there. It even says they delivered God’s law (Acts 7:52–53; Heb. 2:1–2).

 

It also says the Law was written “with the finger of God” (Deut. 9:9–10). That language should be familiar—God in human form. God was on Sinai, appearing as a man, just like the stories in Genesis about the Angel of the Lord. He and his heavenly host gave the Law to Moses and to Israel.

After the giving of the Law, Moses, Aaron, Aaron’s sons, and seventy of Israel’s elders got to see the God of Israel in human form again. This time they met for a meal (Ex. 24:9–11). Just as the Last Supper in Jesus’ time sealed the new covenant of his blood, this meal celebrated God’s new covenant with Israel on Sinai—the Law.

God gave Israel the Law so they would be holy (Lev. 19:2). He wanted Israel to be set apart from other people, distinguishable to everyone as his own family. As God is completely distinct from all other gods and everything earthly, so God’s people needed to be distinct from other people.

What did holiness mean? What was the concept behind it? Holiness did not mean being odd. Holiness was to be identified with the Lord, to be dedicated to God and to enjoy all the good things in life that come with being right with God. God wanted Israel to attract the other nations to come back to him (Deut. 4:6–8; 28:9–10). This is why the Bible calls Israel a “kingdom of priests” (Ex. 19:6) and “a light for the nations” (Isa. 42:6; 49:6; see also 51:4; 60:3). The entire nation inherited the position of Abraham to be a blessing to all the nations (Gen. 12:3).

 

 

Believing Loyalty

Being right with God is another way of talking about salvation. But despite what we’ve often been taught in Sunday school, salvation didn’t come to Israelites by obeying rules, by following the Law. Whether in the Old Testament or the New, salvation is never earned, or even deserved. It’s given by the grace of God in response to faith.

Israelites too, just like those of us born after Christ’s death and resurrection, had to have faith. They had to believe their God was the God of all gods, trusting that he had made them his people. They alone had access to the God of gods. The Law was not how Israelites achieved salvation—it was how they showed loyalty to the God they believed in. Salvation for an Israelite was about faith in the promises and character of the God of gods and about refusing to worship another god. It was about belief and loyalty from the heart, not earning brownie points with God.

King David did awful things like commit adultery and arrange a murder (2 Sam. 11). According to the Law, he was a lawbreaker and deserved to die for his crimes. Even so, he never wavered in his belief in Yahweh as the Most High God. He never switched his loyalty to another god. And God was merciful to him.

The same is true in the New Testament. Believing the gospel means believing that the God of Israel came to earth as a man, voluntarily died on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins, and rose again on the third day. We must embrace that by faith and then show our loyalty to Jesus by forsaking all other gods. Regardless of what those other gods may say about salvation, the Bible tells us there is no salvation in any other name than Jesus (Acts 4:12) and that faith must remain intact (Rom. 11:17–24; Heb. 3:19; 10:22, 38–39). Personal failure is not the same as trading Jesus for another god—and God can tell the difference.

Why This Matters

There’s a lot of fascinating symbolism in the exodus and what happened at Sinai. The scene where Moses and others have a meal with God in human form on Sinai catches our attention right away. There are seventy elders with Moses. If you count the nations in Genesis 10 that God cast aside after the Tower of Babel incident, you get seventy. Those nations were assigned to the sons of God—other lesser gods—when the God of Israel judged the nations (Deut. 4:19–20; 32:8–9). Why seventy elders, seventy sons of God, and seventy disinherited nations?

The correspondences are deliberate. When Jesus started off his earthly ministry, he sent out seventy disciples (Luke 10:1). This was a precursor to the Great Commission. The number telegraphed the idea that the disciples of Jesus would reclaim the nations for the kingdom rule of God. That kingdom would reach its final form at the end of days in the new global Eden of Revelation 21–22. The repetition of the number seventy is a message: God’s new earthly family, Israel—the children of Abraham—would be the means to recover what was lost.

But it doesn’t stop there. The apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 3 that believers have inherited the promises given to Abraham. Everyone who believes in Jesus is a child of Abraham through faith (Gal. 3:26–29). That means you and I are tasked with taking back the nations from the gods. It is our task to turn people under the spiritual dominion of other gods to faith in Jesus. We are God’s new human council on earth. And when we are glorified, we will join his divine family in the new Eden.

The Bible conveys these ideas in many places. The book of Revelation describes believers inheriting the rule of the nations with Jesus at the end of days (Rev. 3:21). That means we will displace the sons of God who have dominated those nations since Babel. This is why John says believers have the authority to be the children of God (John 1:12; compare to 1 John 3:1–3); we will in fact displace the divine-but-hostile sons of God in the last days.

This is also why Paul, when writing to believers to stop letting the world’s courts resolve their disputes, says, “Do you not know that we are to judge angels?” (1 Cor. 6:3). When we are made divine (glorified) on the new earth, we will outrank angels. We will one day be made like Jesus (1 John 3:1–3; 1 Cor. 15:35–49) and rule with him over the nations (Rev. 2:26) now controlled by hostile gods. Believers, the spiritual offspring of Abraham, will ultimately reverse the disinheritance of the nations along with the curse of death that extended from Eden’s failure.

We ought to live as if we believe this destiny. Everything in the Old Testament plan leads to us. Think back to Eden. God wanted his two families—one divine, the other human—to live and rule together in Eden. That plan was ruined by rebellion, but revived by the rescue of Israel from Egypt. Out of Abraham’s children would come the messiah, who would undo the failure in Eden (Gen. 3:15). Without an Israel, we would have no destiny.

And that’s precisely why the gods and their followers would try again to erase Israel.

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!