c. You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over: Despite the dangers about and the presence of enemies, David enjoyed the richness of his hosts goodness. [10] We have another source of confidence in our shepherd Jesus that even David didn't have when he wrote this psalm 3000 years ago. Learn More | Livestream | Bulletin Servicios en espaol. Psalm 23 is an explicit metaphor that displays the relationship between God and His people. So life here for our sheep is one of continual green pastures. He was faithful in caring for his flock and never complained about his responsibilities. Click on the different category headings to find out more. Can you say that about your life? When the end of the Babylonian Exile and Israels salvation was nigh, God told Israel: Dont be afraid, for I have redeemed you. If you are truly saved He will never leave you all the days of your life! That was his role growing up. In New Zealand (where I live) all of our farms and fields seem to be 'green pastures' and the sheep tend to munch all day! The writer asserts their faith in God amidst trials and tribulations through this Psalm. He wants to genuinely bless His people and live in the abundance of His grace. Psalm 23 distinctively stands out compared to other chapters in the Book of Psalms and receives a larger magnitude of respect. Gods presence enables David to feast in perfect security. It is true that in extreme cases the shepherd would break the leg of the lamb. If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here: We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. The other thing to note on this point is that the entire psalm is only valid for those who truly have Jesus as their shepherd. GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Select an Ending Point As the shepherd led the sheep from oasis to oasis, this sometimes meant passing through narrow valleys that had steep cliff faces on each side. And yet through it all he could look back and write 'the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want'. Just as when great princes go abroad they must not go unattended, so it is with the believer. (Spurgeon). He was refreshed by a head anointed with oil; his cup was over-filled. Luke-Acts 1.Jehovah is my shepherd. Jesus took this name for Himself when He said 'Before Abraham was born, I AM!' You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. Now I want to break this first verse up into each little section so that we can get a better grasp as to what David was saying. It is 'The LORD' who is his shepherd! Please see our Privacy Policy for cookie usage details. My cup runs over (Hebrew: rewayah) (v. 5c). The New Testament Under Johns leadership, Grace Community Church's two morning worship services fill the 3,500-seat auditorium to capacity. If there is a wire fence, they'll get caught in it. It is well to know, as certainly as David did, that we belong to the Lord. Do this in remembrance of me. Paul affirms the importance of this table ministry when he says, For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lords death until he comes (1 Corinthians 11:24, 26). On other days, she was on the other side. 'My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (Proverbs 10:3). So though 3000 years old it is extremely relevant for our lives today! This sentence may be read, only goodness and mercy, for there shall be unmingled mercy in our history. Luke-Acts It is a song of gratitude that resonates with the authors heart and trust in God. But he also knew something else. The words are not in the future tense, and therefore are not reserved for a distant moment. (Spurgeon). What confidence for this life this should give us as we believe it in faith! "Staff," that on which one leans, emblem of Divine strength and . Nothing is outside of His control. Psalm 22 Part 2 - It is finished, He has done it! He had the honour of being King over all Israel, yet seen the lows of having his own son, Absalom, rise up against him and take the throne. What great confidence! Kidner notes: The rod (a cudgel worn at the belt) and staff (to walk with, and to round up the flock) were the shepherds weapon and implement: the former for defence (cf. They also enjoy the enthusiastic company of their fifteen grandchildren. A sheep unoiled is an easy target for the infestations of such pests. David had had the highs of defeating Goliath to the lows of running for his life and hiding in caves from Saul. Would you prayerfully consider a gift of support today? We often try to work things out in our little minds and end up working ourselves into a place of nervous exhaustion! In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven .' Now this place of rest is, first and foremost spiritually speaking, right in the midst of the problem. It is for His name's sake and His glory that this is done! The writer asserts their faith in God amidst trials and tribulations through this Psalm. [3]I learnt this when I went to a John Macarthur seminar one time. The epistle to the Hebrews is a study in contrast, between the imperfect and incomplete provisions of the Old Covenant, given under Moses, and the infinitely better provisions of the New Covenant offered by the perfect High-Priest, God's only Son and the Messiah, Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament world, to eat and drink at someones table created a bond of mutual loyalty, and could be the culminated token of a covenant. What is characteristic of them? in the resource materials are not necessarily affirmed, in total, by this ministry. The anointed writer of Psalm 23 was King David. But observe: Thou preparest a table, just as a servant does when she unfolds the damask cloth and displays the ornaments of the feast on an ordinary peaceful occasion. We are so invited and not just occasionally but foreverthe honor that exceeds all other honors. GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Select a Beginning Point We are smart enough to do this in the physical. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; c. I will fear no evil: Despite every dark association with the idea of the valley of the shadow of death, David could resolutely say this because he was under the care of the LORD his shepherd. He is not just a 'good shepherd'. The word hesed also has a variety of meanings kindness, lovingkindness, mercy, goodness, faithfulness, or love. a. People need comfort and encouragement. ii. Obviously it means that with the Lord protecting and providing for us then we shall not lack that which He knows we need. What humanity needs now is the restoration of hope and joy. (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2007), Freedman, David Noel (Ed. Priests were anointed (Exodus 40:13-15). He lived in the confident hope that it would continue for the rest of his life. Included in the "better" provisions are: a better hope . Psalm 23:1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. The book of Psalms is so unique because it focuses on the character of God. It isnt his destination or dwelling place. You prepare a table (Hebrew: sulhan) before me in the presence of my enemies (v. 5a). 3 He restores my soul. These valleys were often dark because of the shadow caused by the cliffs, and they were a favourite place for predators to hide in. It talks about humanity, our experiences, and even our emotions. Pastor John MacArthur. These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features. He leads me. But, God as our shepherd provides peace that transcends all understanding. And it is in these times that it starts getting a lot more personal! A servant abideth not in the house for ever, but the son abideth ever. While I am here I will be a child at home with my God; the whole world shall be his house to me; and when I ascend into the upper chamber, I shall not change my company, nor even change the house; I shall only go to dwell in the upper story of the house of the Lord forever. ), which the WEB has updated. He had known feast. When God anoints us with His oil, He guards us against the parasites of this world that seek to destroy us. It means to actively pursue, to chase, and normally in a negative sense as when Pharaoh chased Israel at the exodus. 3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his names sake. The wonderful discovery is that the Lord is not just a shepherd who looks after the entire flock, but He is cares for me as well. type 23-6 in the address bar in place of 1-1 so that . Maybe this verse should have read 'though I close my eyes and sprint through the valley of the shadow of death' This verse speaks to us of the trying times in our lives where there is darkness, confusion and fear. They have been comforted, strengthened, and warmed by the thought that the LORD would shepherd them through the valley of the shadow of death. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me (v. 4c). (23) Seller Location . These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience. Therefore, when the shepherd started heading off on another journey the sheep followed wherever he went! The analogy of a king as a shepherd is common in ancient times and is not unusual. the Holy One of Israel, your Savior (Isaiah 43:1-3). Poetical Books 'Blessed be the day on which that Psalm was born! When explaining why he was restoring Israel, God said, I dont do this for your sake, house of Israel, but for my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations, where you went. He will not, and cannot forsake you if you are one of His sheep! John MacArthur brings you a complete Bible commentary in one volume. It doesn't mean that anything outwardly has to change. Historical Books Psalm 23:2-3 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters; he restores my soul. God does not eliminate the risks and hazards but will illuminate His presence. The shepherd is also a guide who leads the flock on the right path. Psalm 23 mainly illustrates God as a caring shepherd. Minor Prophets It implies that the Lord is the only thing needed in life and that Gods shepherding care provides all of our necessities. It offers a broad overview of each Bible book and the internal consistency that results from having a single commentator. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. If there is a ditch, they will fall in and need to be rescued. A shepherd would prepare a table for his sheep by scouting ahead to find good pastureland free from predators and poisonous plants. The paths that the Shepherd takes us on are the righteous or 'right' paths. The Gospels You anoint my head with oil. Psalm 23:3 He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Pastor and teacher John MacArthur covers the complete Bibleevery passage of the Old and New Testaments, phrase by phrasein this valuable one-volume resource. Well, having said that I should say that you will be free from fear to the degree that you know He is with you - rain, hail and shine. The Saviours Cross. I recently did a study on this psalm for a home group church meeting. [13] Boy it used to annoy me how church leaders and other Christians would create such confusion concerning this! ; and Briggs, Charles A., The Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon (Peabody, Massachusetts: Hendrickson Publishers, 1906, 2004), Doniach, N.S. Blue Letter Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Basically fear tactics. 5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Ouch. Poetical Books He is that interested in each of His sheep! [7] This was brought home to me this week in an email from a Kenyan Pastor. Sun Valley, CA 91352 Joy -- You anoint my head with oil and my cup runs over. The Middle Eastern shepherds in Israel didn't drive their sheep their sheep followed them. Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Everything in time -- for goodness and mercy shall follow me. The Hebrew word, sulhan (table), could refer to an animal hide spread on the ground like a picnic blanket. If you are truly one of His sheep (evidenced by hearing his voice and following His ways) then this verse is your verse as well! (Jer 23:1-4, Ezek 34:1-10) Work to be a faithful shepherd realising that it is God's own sheep that He has placed in your care. In Psalm 23, God has answered this prayer God has led him in paths of righteousness. THE LORD AS SHEPHERD 1 Yahweh is my shepherd: I shall lack nothing. In that culture, people considered a persons name to be more than a simple label to identify that person. (1.) GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Select an Ending Point 4 (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1996), Waltner, James H., Believers Church Bible Commentary: Psalms (Scottdale, Pennsylvania: Herald Press, 2006, Baker, Warren (ed. Wisdom Literature Notice how in times of trials, we become more aware of Gods presence. Please see Blue Letter Bible's Privacy Policy for cookie usage details. The Third Commandment says, You shall not make wrongful use of the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not acquit anyone who misuses his name (Exodus 20:7). Readers benefit from the coherence a single commentator provides, finding faithful, understandable, and . Make sure your view of the 'Good Shepherd' Jesus is the right one! He wrote: Unlike in the west where people get multiple jobs, here the jobs are very rare. Recognizing the value of consistent reflection upon the Word of God in order to refocus one's mind and heart upon Christ and His Gospel of peace, we provide several reading plans designed to cover the entire Bible in a year. Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. Oils and ointments can salve wounds and insect bites. Almost 25 years ago, I was diagnosed with colon cancer. Our God leads His people into the green pastures and still waters. Hundreds of additional study tools complement the commentary, such as. Play. So life here for our sheep is one of continual green pastures. April 17, 2011. We go through the dark tunnel of death and emerge into the light of immortality. Provision -- for Thou prepare a table before me. David had extreme confidence in who God IS right now! General Epistles Historical Books Shepherd - This imagery of the shepherd and sheep spans the entire Bible but is most prominent in the New Testament where Jesus speaks about His relationship with His people, His sheep. GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Select a Beginning Point A magnificent banquet is provided by a most liberal and benevolent host; who has not only the bounty to feed me, but power to protect me; and, though surrounded by enemies, I sit down to this table with confidence, knowing that I shall feast in perfect security. (Clarke). Pastor John MacArthur | The MacArthur Commentaries Grace to You. A poor man may say this as well as those in higher circumstances, What, all this, and Jesus Christ too?[6]. All of John's 3,000 sermons, spanning more than four decades of ministry, are available for free on the Grace to You website. The Kings crown, Psalm 23:1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. The New Testament They are well placed, well laid: He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. Nor is he saying that 'the LORD is my Shepherd, I get everything I want'. Otherwise you will be prompted again when opening a new browser window or new a tab. The shepherd would use his staff to guide sheep and to pull them back from dangerous places. He who turns the ebb into the flood can soon restore our soul. d. For You are with me: This emphasizes that it is the presence of the shepherd that eliminated the fear of evil for the sheep. Was it where you thought you would go? That symmetric bracketing was a literary device intended to focus attention on the middle phrase, for you are with me. Gods saving presence is the focal point of this psalm. With family of say, a mother, a father, 3 or four children, and only one in the family working and bringing in 3 dollars (a day), it would takes ages before one can afford to buy anything extra, even clothes or even a blanket. Like the Greek word agape (love) in the New Testament, hesed (lovingkindness) involves actionkindness or love expressed through kind or loving actions rather than just feelings. No, we are not talking here about genuine needs, not greed'! So out of the blue she emailed a few weeks back asking: 'All ok with you? That is some revelation! He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His names sake.. The instruments used by the shepherd comforted David. Death is not the house but the porch, not the goal but the passage to it Many a saint has reaped more joy and knowledge when he came to die than he ever knew while he lived. He would not be like his Lord if he had not. When faced with destitution, famine, pressures, financial difficulty, and depression, its hard to remain calm and tranquil.
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