The Sanhedrin, Sadducees, and Pharisees in a Modern Context

 The Sanhedrin

“Sanhedrin” is a Greek term meaning Assembly or Council and describes the legal and political leadership in Israel. The Sanhedrin, as a term, would have existed from around 323BC, but the idea goes much further back to Moses in the Book of Numbers.

“16 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Gather for me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them, and bring them to the tent of meeting, and let them take their stand there with you.” (11:16 ESV)

The organization of the Sanhedrin is further described in Deuteronomy 16.

“18 Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment.

19 Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.”

Discussion

The Sanhedrin existed in towns and villages consisting of judges on all matters of Mosaic and civil laws. The Great Sanhedrin, a 70 man 1 High Priest group, sat in judgment for all of Israel. The Sanhedrin did more than just judge laws, they also determined punishments.

Some have likened the Sanhedrin as being like the U.S. Supreme Court, but there are some major differences. The U.S. Supreme Court was designed to weigh law against the Constitution, not weigh law against an individual. The U.S. Supreme Court does not produce punishments, it weighs punishments against the Constitution. The Sanhedrin sent enforcers of the law to imprison or stone violators.

In 358AD the Sanhedrin, under persecution of Rome, was dissolved and has not formed again since.

Who Sat On the Sanhedrin?

There were two groups who were members of the Sanhedrin. The Sadducees and Pharisees, both groups adhered to Mosaic Law, had political power in the Sanhedrin, and that is where their similarities end.

The Sadducees are the modern day version of secular belief. The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection of the dead, miracles, life after death, angels, or demons. They believed in nothing spiritual. They were financially and politically powerful. The Chief Priests and High Priest were Sadducees. The Sadducees believed in the Hellenistic Value system brought by the Greeks. They also worked with the Roman Empire to further their own desires. With the destruction of Jerusalem the Sadducees ceased to exist.

The Pharisees were completely different. They believed in the resurrection of the dead, miracles, life after death, angels, and demons.

Christians are much more likely to be a Pharisee. Paul when he was being tried by the Sanhedrin, he knew the problems that Sadducees and Pharisees faced. When it came to disagreements they disagreed often. Paul openly called himself a Pharisee.

When Jesus arrived he had more run ins with Pharisees than he did Sadducees. However, Jesus made the Sadducees nervous that he would upset the status quo. It was at that point the Sadducees and Pharisees held mock trials and when that didn’t work they turned him over to the Romans.

In Matthew 23 Jesus gives one of the best lessons to the Pharisees.

“1Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,

2Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat:

3All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.

4For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.

5But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,

6And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,

7And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.

8But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.

9And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.

10Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.

11But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.

12And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

13But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.

14Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.

15Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.

16Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!

17Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?

18And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.

19Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?

20Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.

21And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein.

22And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon.

23Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

24Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.

25Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.

26Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.

27Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness.

28Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.

29Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,

30And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.

31Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.

32Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.

33Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?

34Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city:

35That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.

36Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.

37O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!

38Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.

39For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

Conclusion

Before he was called Paul he was called Saul of Tarsus. He was a Pharisee through and through. Saul was tossing Believers of Christ into prison as fast as he could, to include holding the cloaks of the men who stoned the Disciple Stephen to death. Until that day on the road to Damascus. When Jesus appeared to him and left him blind.

Saul of Tarsus is gone, now we have Paul standing in front of the Sanhedrin and they are plotting to kill him. God has another plan. Read Acts 23 to learn about this miraculous delivery from bondage and taking the word of Jesus to the Gentiles.

Stay Tuned…

“Let Me Put This Here”

 Introduction

When you think about David’s life up to this point, he has gone from the least important person in Israel, to the most important person in Israel. David knows it was not something he did, but something God did.

King David has now founded his city in Jerusalem and during the celebration of the Ark of God returning to the center of Israel, calamity fell on one of the priests all because they couldn’t follow the rules from Moses’s time.

David’s conundrum is what to do with the Ark of God? Is God angry at me? Israel? How do I fix that?

Let Me Put This Here

“So David would not remove the ark of the LORD unto him into the city of David: but David carried it aside into the house of Obededom the Gittite.” (2 Samuel 6:10)

Over the next three months David is aware of the blessings that Obededom is given by God. Of course everyone is going to tell David what is going on. Some will tell him to help him, others will tell him with their own agenda.

Dancing a Jig for God

David brings the Ark of God to the Tabernacle. Not the temple, David hasn’t built a temple, he pitches the tent that was the same Tabernacle Moses used. David was happy and excited that he was able to bring the Ark into his city. So happy that he dances in the nude in front of men, women, and handmaids. As exciting as that seems, there is a problem.

Stay Tuned…

“The Shaking Oxen”

 “And they set the ark of God upon a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab that was in Gibeah: and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drave the new cart.” (2 Samuel 6:3)

Background

The Ark of God came into the world by God’s grace. When the Ark was built by Moses and the artisans of Israel it was intended to be the place God would dwell. The Ark was placed inside the Tabernacle surrounded by a tent. The entire Tabernacle and Ark are to be transported as the children of Israel lingers in the wilderness. Transported set up and put away for travel under the guidance of the Levite priests. Many of the items for the Tabernacle were transported in carts pulled by Oxen. There is one exception, the Ark is to be carried on the shoulders of the Kohathites. The Ark of God had journeyed across the Jordan into the Promised Land.

The First Mistake

“And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not.” (Leviticus 10:1)

Aaron had the job of the offerings in the altar, it was Aaron who did this as commanded to him by God. Nadab and Abihu jumped ahead of Aaron and God. Thus they were consumed by fire.

“And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.” (Leviticus 10:2)

The Philistines and the Ark of God

“And the Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew of the army in the field about four thousand men.” (1 Samuel 4:2)

The Elders of Israel call for the Ark of God to be brought out. Everyone cheered and shouted. Then the Philistines beat them up and took the Ark of God.

When the Ark of God was stolen by the Philistines and placed in the Philistine temple to Dagon, even the Philistines realized God was more than their gods could handle (because their gods were just statues). The Philistines returned the Ark of God in a cart.

Before David is King

“And Saul said unto Ahiah, Bring hither the ark of God. For the ark of God was at that time with the children of Israel.” (1 Samuel 14:18)

Saul hears the noise of war in the camp of the Philistines and sees them killing each other. Saul tells the priest Ahiah to withdraw his hand from the ark of God. Since the ark had been returned by the Philistines it has remained with the Priests.

David at Jerusalem

David as King of Israel has built up The City of David at Jerusalem to include a holy place with a home for the ark of God.

“And David arose, and went with all the people that were with him from Baale of Judah, to bring up from thence the ark of God, whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts that dwelleth between the cherubims.” (2 Samuel 6:2)

With 30,000 others David is on a parade to bring the ark of God to its resting place. The people are rejoicing with all sorts of musical instruments. It is certainly a happy day in Israel. That is until tragedy strikes.

The Oxen Shook

The ark was placed on a brand new cart. This was not the will of God. Remember when the Kohathites were supposed to carry the ark between two poles on their shoulders. A careful and honorable way to carry God’s ark.

When the Oxen shook it must have appeared that the ark was about to topple off onto the ground, Uzzah took hold of it, and God killed him right then and there.

David now feared what he had just watched. Was it something David had done?

Stay Tuned…

“Post Scriptum”

 “And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and carpenters, and masons: and they built David an house.” (2 Samuel 5:11)

Commentary

As tribute to David becoming King, Hiram king of Tyre builds David a strong and magnificent house fit for holy worship. David’s accomplishments were well known, not just in Israeli and Philistine territory, but outside as well. King Hiram will become a great friend of David, and later, David’s son Solomon. That is for a later story.

David’s Folly

Although David inquires of God often, there are things David does not ask of God. The key being wives and concubines. Adam had one wife, after the flood Noah had one wife, the people after that began to have many wives. They had them either for the growth of their defense and protection, combining kingdoms through marriage, or their own greed. The weakness of humans in abundantly clear.

The problem with more than one wife is not a woman’s weakness, but the political intrigue within a family. For a leader to effectively lead a nation the danger of those behind him is far more dangerous.

Stay Tuned…

“A Thing Happened”

 “The Philistines also came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.” (2 Samuel 5:18)

Background

David perceives he has been anointed the King of Israel.

“Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh.” (2 Samuel 5:1)

The people recognize that they are bound by blood relationship to David and David recognizes his relationship to them. All of the Elders of Israel anoint him King. At 22 1/2, David was the King of Judah. Now, 7 1/2 years later, at the age of 30, he is King of Israel, and will remain King for 40 years.

Then a Thing Happened

“And the king and his men went to Jerusalem unto the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land: which spake unto David, saying, Except thou take away the blind and the lame, thou shalt not come in hither: thinking, David cannot come in hither.” (2 Samuel 5:6)

What are the Jebusites saying? Who are these “Blind and Lame” they speak of, and why?

God had commanded the tribes of Israel to destroy the tribes that lived in the promised land. But the tribes of Israel didn’t do as commanded. Instead they lived with the pagans right along side their Idols. False gods made of wood, stone, and brass. The Jebusites think their false idols will protect them.

“And the children of Benjamin did not drive out the Jebusites that inhabited Jerusalem; but the Jebusites dwell with the children of Benjamin in Jerusalem unto this day.” (Judges 1:21)

The Jebusites are taunting David, because they believe the Blind and Lame images will somehow save them, they don’t protect them at all.

“And David said on that day, Whosoever getteth up to the gutter, and smiteth the Jebusites, and the lame and the blind, that are hated of David’s soul, he shall be chief and captain. Wherefore they said, The blind and the lame shall not come into the house.” (2 Samuel 5:8)

David now possess Jerusalem and makes it a holy city and it is called “The City of David”.

Lesson

God rebuked the tribes of Israel for living with the pagans. God made all the tribes aware that by allowing false idols within their cities would bring out the sinful nature of man. Falling into league with the world of sinners will ultimately remove people from following God. It is a difficult road to stay with God, Satan has a very easy way of misguiding people. Stay strong in the LORD.

Stay Tuned…

“Faith With Evidence Part IV”

 “And Samuel did that which the LORD spake, and came to Bethlehem. And the elders of the town trembled at his coming, and said, Comest thou peaceably?” (1 Samuel 16:4)

Commentary

Samuel has demonstrated being both a Prophet and a Judge. Arriving at Bethlehem would certainly come into question as to why he is here? What he coming to Judge a sin they may be guilty of, or prophesy something horrible that will happen to them? Nope, he is here to perform a ritual sacrifice…as far as they know.

While the Elders and people are busy preparing for the sacrifice. Samuel goes looking for a new King. He finds one in David.

David’s first encounter was with Saul was when Saul was feeling sad about the Evil Spirit the Lord had put in him. David’s skill on the harp made Saul feel better and he made David his Armor Bearer. Although it is not directly said, it is probably more ceremonial since David is just a boy.

A great war is raging between Israel and the Philistines. Both armies are poised in a valley and both occupy the hills on either side. Everyday the giant Goliath comes close enough to the Israeli Army to taunt them. Goliath says for them to send out a warrior to fight him, if the warrior wins then the Philistines will surrender to Israel, but if the warrior loses Israel must surrender to them. Of course, if Saul sent out his most powerful warrior and he loses, then Saul will not surrender. Likewise if Saul’s most powerful warrior wins the Philistines will not surrender.

Then comes the boy David. Physically David is no match for Goliath. David tells Saul of something much more miraculous. The time David killed a Lion and Bear. For a small boy to kill a Lion and Bear, is a greater deed than Sampson the Judge.

David’s brothers and the people made fun of David, since he was too small and young to be a skilled warrior. Saul heard what was said about David, but decided to send the least of them out to challenge Goliath. If David is killed it might buy Saul enough time to try something else.

“David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee.” (1 Samuel 17:37)

This is the evidence that David knew God was with him. David didn’t say I killed the Lion and the Bear all on my own. It was God that killed the Lion and the Bear, for me. It was not blind faith that moved David, it was Faith with Evidence of God that moved David.

Do you have faith based on unknown evidence, or has something happened in your life that has to have been from God. Not an accidental occurrence, but something outside of your ability. I know I have. If you look you will find the same thing.

Stay Tuned…

P.S. David’s faith continues from 1 Samuel 17 onward.

“Faith With Evidence Part III”

 “And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.” (1 Samuel 16:1)

“Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.” (1 Samuel 16:13)

Commentary

Saul, from the people’s perspective, is still King of Israel. Some are happy about it, some are not, and still some don’t really care. Some believe he is still guided by God. Saul was not the failure, it was the people who wanted a King, instead of God. The difference is Samuel.

Samuel is in constant contact with God. He follows God as he is guided. What God wants is someone closer to God.

What evidence does Samuel have that God dwelt with him?

1 Samuel 3

It begins with Samuel as a young boy living in the Temple with the Priest Eli. Eli is becoming blind. Samuel’s job is to help Eli. One night the Lamp of God, which is in the Temple, went out.

Samuel hears a voice calling out to him. He rushes to the place Eli is sleeping and asks Eli, “You called?” Eli responds, “No, go back to sleep”. God calls to Samuel three times. Eli knew on the third time Samuel came to Eli that it was God speaking to Samuel.

“Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.” (1 Samuel 3:9)

Again God calls out to Samuel and Samuel responds.

“And the LORD said to Samuel, Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at which both the ears of every one that heareth it shall tingle.” (1 Samuel 3:11)

God is going to do “a thing”. When God says he is going to do something, its time to listen to him. Samuel grew as time went on, from a child into a prophet, and all of Israel knew it.

This was the evidence that brought the reality of God to Samuel, and to us today.

To read more about what “thing” God did read 1 Samuel chapters 4-8. It is more evidence of God and an amazing story.

Stay Tuned…

“Faith With Evidence Part II”

 Faith is not belief because you just believe. Blind Faith is not what God wants. Faith is the belief that God exists based on evidence of God. Lets continue with that discussion.

Commentary

To understand what “Faith with Evidence” means, it is important to look at what “Faithless with Evidence” means.

When we look at Saul sitting under a pomegranate tree, he is surrounded by 600 men and the God’s priest. Safely waiting, while thousands of Philistines are building an army to overwhelm Israel. Saul’s son, Jonathan and his armor bearer, crept into the midst of the Philistines and began a great slaughter of the Philistines. Two men against thousands began to defeat them by God’s power.

Remember when Jacob, soon to be named Israel, traveled through the Land of Caanan and God caused so much conflict among the tribes that surrounded Jacob, that they were able to safely come to Egypt? God always provides a rescue.

When Saul realized that all of Israel were chasing the Philistines he became so excited that he asked God’s Priest to bring out the Ark, then tells the priest to put it back. Saul can’t decide what he should do, but he certainly is not turning to God for directions.

Instead of rewarding his troops he begins to punish them, when they have fought to the point of starvation. God provides honey for them, Saul warns he will punish them. Finally as Israel has gone as far as it can and has defeated the Philistines, finding all the Philistine food stuffs they become ravenous and begin eating the livestock with blood. That is they ate the animals without preparing them according to Mosaic Law.

Even with the end of a major victory Saul built an altar to God. Then…”And Saul asked counsel of God, Shall I go down after the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into the hand of Israel? But he answered him not that day.” (1 Samuel 14:37)

Saul should have taken the silence as a sign. But he didn’t. Instead he turned to the people for an affirmative response. Which he didn’t receive. Although Saul felt that his own son, Jonathan had broken Saul’s command, and die. The people argued that Jonathan had been fighting the Philistines with God’s permission. God’s example bought Jonathan’s rescue and the people knew it.

The Philistines were able to withdraw from Saul, but Saul was not done with his war on the peoples around Canaan.

“So Saul took the kingdom over Israel, and fought against all his enemies on every side, against Moab, and against the children of Ammon, and against Edom, and against the kings of Zobah, and against the Philistines: and whithersoever he turned himself, he vexed them.” (1 Samuel 14:47)

Saul began to fight all of his enemies, but he did not seek God’s direction. It was all on Saul’s decision. He kept his enemies and Israel busy and tired of such a long war.

Saul is finally confronted by a choice. Samuel had spoken with God, and God spoke to Samuel.

“2Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way, when he came up from Egypt.

3Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass.” (1 Samuel 15:2-3)

God commands Saul to kill every living thing the Amalekites had. Saul just couldn’t, wouldn’t listen to God. Instead of following a command, Saul took the animals and took the King of the Amalekites alive.

Samuel returned to where Saul was and told him straightly that he had angered God by not listening to his commandment. Samuel told Saul, you are no longer King of Israel. Saul begged Samuel to stay by his side, and bring God with you. Samuel left Saul. Saul had seen the power of God. Samuel had educated Saul as to God’s mercy. The Evidence was there, Saul didn’t have the faith to follow. Saul has been fired and though he may not know it, he is being replaced.

God speaks to us everyday, many do not want to hear what he has to say, others forget how to listen. He listens to our prayers when we find our way to him, through his Only Son Jesus. Jesus is our rescue from evil.

Stay Tuned…

“Faith With Evidence Part I”

 “Also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD said to thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be a captain over Israel.” (2 Samuel 5:2)

Background

David has brought the tribes of Israel to follow him as King. As we look back to Saul’s incessant need to kill David, we see the difference in Faith.

The Beginning

The failure in Israel was to replace God with a King. They were, replacing God with what they saw in the world around them. God was displeased with this idea, and he told them so. Even after telling them the consequence of a King, God allowed them to do as they saw fit. This does not mean God said I agree, far from it, he will let us destroy ourselves. (1 Samuel 8)

For Saul, his son Jonathan had taken the lead in the war on the Philistines. Jonathan through his courage and faith that God will be with him. As Jonathan and his armor bearer set out on a mission to show up in the middle of the Philistine garrison; Jonathan literally plows the Philistines under. He scares them so much, the Philistines start to see an Israeli behind every bush. So much so that the Philistines begin to kill each other, then run for their lives. Saul was sitting under a pomegranate tree. He wasn’t thinking. Saul called for the Priest, not to seek God’s commands, but to seek what Saul wanted to do. When the going got tough, Saul just sat around. Saul did not have faith. (1 Samuel 14)

Stay Tuned…

“Things Are Looking Up”

 “Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh.” (2 Samuel 5:1)

Background

David was aware that he had been anointed by Samuel to be King of Israel. “Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.” (1 Samuel 16:13)

From this point till now David followed the directions God provided to him. David could have killed Saul, but David knew that was God’s job. David could have killed Nabal, but God, through Abigail, again tells David that is God’s job.

With the death of Saul and Jonathan, David continues to wait patiently for God. God delivers Israel to David.

Faith

Faith is a central tenet of Christianity. Unfortunately, it is sometimes not well defined.

For Example: There are people who will handle rattle snakes as a show of faith. It isn’t a show a faith, it is a temptation (from a human perspective) of God. They are trying to show how they are the intercessor for God. Note: If a rattle snake bites you, you will not die in most cases.

There is an argument among Atheists and “Christian’s in Name Only” that say “Faith is belief without evidence”. Nothing could be further from the truth. Faith is belief with evidence.

The entire Bible is full of evidence of what was, and points to what will be. There are many who will argue your Faith, that is why you need to build the evidence of your Faith.

From Genesis to Revelations you just have to look.

Stay Tuned…

“Evil Reaffirms Christianity”

We all sin and come short of the glory of God.

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”(Proverbs 4:23)

I have spent a great deal of prayer before bringing this to light. I’m sure many have listened to the videos or podcasts about the Ravi Zacharias scandal. I took my time to read the accusations from many other people. The Ravi Zacharias scandal is true. What you as a Christian can take away from this is in the Frank Turek podcast. Listen to the entire thing.

https://youtu.be/oCka2ANeWAU

“Murder of Ishbosheth”

 “Ishbosheth Saul’s son was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel, and reigned two years. But the house of Judah followed David.” (2 Samuel 2:10)

Background

Abner had grown to be the military leader of King Saul. With the death of Saul and his son’s that fought with him, there was only Ishbosheth left of Saul’s son’s. Ishbosheth was far from a warrior. A 40 year old who couldn’t be bothered to go to war along side his father and brothers, but he could accept being named King. Being King, Ishbosheth was not required to listen to Abner, Ishbosheth was too lazy and cowardly to fight.

Why Murder?

The Murder of Ishbosheth is premeditated. The Murders are Baanah and Rechab. Both Baanah and Rechab are Benjamanites from Saul’s tribe, as was Ishbosheth. When a power vacuum exists someone is always waiting to fill the void.

Ishbosheth should have been in the field with his warriors, or in discussions with David. Instead, he lounges in his bed enjoying the lavish life of a King. Abner is dead, there is no more protection for Ishbosheth. The remaining line of Saul’s Kingship is only Ishbosheth and Mephibosheth.

Mephibosheth, is Jonathan’s son. “And Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son that was lame of his feet. He was five years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel, and his nurse took him up, and fled: and it came to pass, as she made haste to flee, that he fell, and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth.” (2 Samuel 4:4)

Mephibosheth is only about 7 years old at this point, and lame. He is far from being able to lead a tribe. With Ishbosheth as the only adult leader, eliminating him will leave a hole that Baanah and Rechab hope to be able to fill.

The Murder

Baanah and Rechab go into Ishbosheth’s bed room in the middle of the day and stab him to death. They do not try to hide the murder, instead they escape with the head of Ishbosheth. They take the head to prove to David that they had done the deed.

What they Expected

“And they brought the head of Ishbosheth unto David to Hebron, and said to the king, Behold the head of Ishbosheth the son of Saul thine enemy, which sought thy life; and the LORD hath avenged my lord the king this day of Saul, and of his seed.” (2 Samuel 4:8)

They were expecting a reward and probably a promotion from David.

What they Received

“9And David answered Rechab and Baanah his brother, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, and said unto them, As the LORD liveth, who hath redeemed my soul out of all adversity,

10When one told me, saying, Behold, Saul is dead, thinking to have brought good tidings, I took hold of him, and slew him in Ziklag, who thought that I would have given him a reward for his tidings:

11How much more, when wicked men have slain a righteous person in his own house upon his bed? shall I not therefore now require his blood of your hand, and take you away from the earth?

12And David commanded his young men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them up over the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ishbosheth, and buried it in the sepulchre of Abner in Hebron.” (2 Samuel 4:9-12)

Although Ishbosheth may not be the most intelligent, or even possess leadership skills he is still righteous in the eyes of David. God decides when a life is taken. In this case, the life was not taken in war, it was taken in peace by greed. David had them killed and their greed put on display for all of Hebron to see.

Stay Tuned…

“Assassins in Hebron”

 “And Abner said unto David, I will arise and go, and will gather all Israel unto my lord the king, that they may make a league with thee, and that thou mayest reign over all that thine heart desireth. And David sent Abner away; and he went in peace.” (2 Samuel 3:21)

Background

Abner has abdicated his control over Israel with the blessings of the Elders of Israel and by joining in league with David has all but guaranteed David’s crown. It is a peaceful transition. Sort of.

Joab

“And, behold, the servants of David and Joab came from pursuing a troop, and brought in a great spoil with them: but Abner was not with David in Hebron; for he had sent him away, and he was gone in peace.” (2 Samuel 3:22)

The gossips of Hebron are quick to tell Joab of Abner’s meeting with David. Joab is unhappy that he was not there for the meeting, and he tells David so.

“24 Then Joab came to the king, and said, What hast thou done? behold, Abner came unto thee; why is it that thou hast sent him away, and he is quite gone?

25 Thou knowest Abner the son of Ner, that he came to deceive thee, and to know thy going out and thy coming in, and to know all that thou doest.” (2 Samuel 3:24-25)

Joab is certainly not the type of person that would trust Abner, especially since Abner had killed Joab’s brother Asahel. Joab’s anger gets the best of him.

“26And when Joab was come out from David, he sent messengers after Abner, which brought him again from the well of Sirah: but David knew it not.

27And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth rib, that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.” (2 Samuel 3:26-27)

David had felt the same sort of anger when he was confronted by the man Nabal. Had it not been for Abigail David may have killed him in anger, but he didn’t. David let God dispense vengeance. Joab had vengeance on his mind and he ignored God. Patience is one of the issues we all face. When we strike out at someone without God’s permission, we are going to face the consequence.

“The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.” (Psalms 55:21)

Joab and his family will pay.

Stay Tuned…

“Meanwhile Back in Hebron”

 Ishbosheth and Abner are arguing about who is in charge. Meanwhile Back in Hebron, David and his house is busy having babies..and waiting.

Messages

“And Abner sent messengers to David on his behalf, saying, Whose is the land? saying also, Make thy league with me, and, behold, my hand shall be with thee, to bring about all Israel unto thee.” (2 Samuel 3:12)

Abner knew that things in the house of Saul were in shambles. Abner begins to plot his own escape by joining with David.

“13And he said, Well; I will make a league with thee: but one thing I require of thee, that is, Thou shalt not see my face, except thou first bring Michal Saul’s daughter, when thou comest to see my face.

14And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul’s son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.” (2 Samuel 3:13-14)

David responds to Abner setting the terms “bring Michal Saul’s daughter”. You remember her, “Wherefore David arose and went, he and his men, and slew of the Philistines two hundred men; and David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full tale to the king, that he might be the king’s son in law. And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife.” (1 Samuel 18:27)

Michal was David’s first wife and she had worked hard to keep her father from killing David. After David had escaped, Saul gave Michal, David’s wife, to Phalti the son of Laish. (1 Samuel 25:44) David wants her back.

David sends the same message to Ishbosheth, “And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul’s son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.” (2 Samuel 3:14)

Ishbosheth sends Michal with her present husband following and crying about how he is losing his wife, but Abner meets them and tells her husband to go back, alone. It is easy to see here that Ishbosheth thought he was involved in a league between himself and David, this is not so.

“17And Abner had communication with the elders of Israel, saying, Ye sought for David in times past to be king over you:

18Now then do it: for the LORD hath spoken of David, saying, By the hand of my servant David I will save my people Israel out of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their enemies.

19And Abner also spake in the ears of Benjamin: and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and that seemed good to the whole house of Benjamin.

20So Abner came to David to Hebron, and twenty men with him. And David made Abner and the men that were with him a feast.” (2 Samuel 3:17-20)

Abner is in effect, replacing the leadership of Saul’s house and has control over the elders of Israel. With that control, Abner realizes the common people of Israel will follow where ever the elders lead them.

David is now the King of Israel.

Stay Tuned…

“The Changing Tide”

 Changing tides are generally predictable in coastal areas. Depending on where you are they are also not easily visible. In other areas you can easily see it. This applies to life. Changes in our life are often not easily perceived, sometimes it is readily seen and felt.

For King David, the changing tides of his life have been a roller coaster of changing circumstances. He learned the lessons slowly and quickly. Now we see him going from an inconsequential little boy, to a much more important figure in Israel.

The Struggle

“Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.” (2 Samuel 3:1)

If we think about the house of David we can see that they are not just growing in population of kin, but in families that are willing and happy to follow David. They trust David because he is trusting God. His faith is becoming infectious among Israel.

The house of Saul has gone in the opposite direction. The leadership, Saul, Jonathan, and Saul’s other son’s had been killed in the war with the Philistines. The only remaining leadership was Ishbosheth and Abner. Breaking it down further, Ishbosheth was a puppet in Saul’s house, the real leader was Abner.

The Division in Saul’s House.

Leadership

In every organization there are two types of leaders, the Formal Leader, and the Informal Leader. The Formal Leader, whether it is a CEO, Church Pastor, or the owner of a Hot Dog Stand; their authority may come from the Board of Directors, Elders, or from the ownership of their business. Their is a hierarchy of power and control within the Formal Leadership.

The Informal Leader is a completely different creature. They achieve their authority through personal relationships, by achieving trust, and exemplifying capability. People, including Formal Leaders will follow an Informal Leader.

Ishbosheth is the Formal Leader in the house of Saul and Israel. Ishbosheth’s authority is from the succession from his father Saul. Abner is both a Formal and Informal Leader. Abner’s authority comes from Ishbosheth, but Abner uses his Informal Leadership role to take control of Saul’s house.

The Accusation

Ishbosheth is afraid of Abner. Abner is physically stronger, in the eyes of Saul’s followers he has demonstrated his leadership, and maintains political control. Ishbosheth assumes he can not physically take control from Abner, but he has a plan to politically damage Abner’s control.

“And Saul had a concubine, whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah: and Ishbosheth said to Abner, Wherefore hast thou gone in unto my father’s concubine?” (2 Samuel 3:7)

There is the accusation, Abner, according to Ishbosheth has slept with Saul’s concubine. Ishbosheth assumes that this is Abner’s violation of a moral law. We have to define the relationship between Rizpah and Saul to understand the connection to Ishbosheth and Abner.

The idea of a concubine is not uncommon. The best explanation can be found HERE. The thought here is that Rizpah is the property of Saul and by inheritance is now the property of Ishbosheth. The accusation is Abner has violated Ishbosheth’s property.

Abner, neither affirms, nor denies any involvement. What we don’t have is any statement from Rizpah.

Abner does respond to Ishbosheth. “Then was Abner very wroth for the words of Ishbosheth, and said, Am I a dog’s head, which against Judah do shew kindness this day unto the house of Saul thy father, to his brethren, and to his friends, and have not delivered thee into the hand of David, that thou chargest me to day with a fault concerning this woman?” (1 Samuel 3:8)

Whether the accusation is true or not, does not matter in this case. Ishbosheth and Abner are both prisoners of their own ambition. Abner, clings to his ambition and looks for another route.

Stay Tuned…

“Asahel”

 Asahel, in Hebrew is עֲשָׂה־אֵ֖ל, it means “God has Made”.

Background

At the end of the contest at the Pool of Gibeon, the contest turned into a full battle. Abner leading Israel and Joab leading David’s servants.

“And there was a very sore battle that day; and Abner was beaten, and the men of Israel, before the servants of David.” (2 Samuel 2:17)

The Chase

Abner is on the run. Hot on his heels is Asahel. Asahel is the nephew of David. “And there were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab, and Abishai, and Asahel: and Asahel was as light of foot as a wild roe.” (2 Samuel 2:18) Asahel is faster than Abner, but Abner was a more experienced warrior.

Asahel was locked on Abner like a heat seeking missile.

“And Asahel pursued after Abner; and in going he turned not to the right hand nor to the left from following Abner.” (2 Samuel 2:19)

Abner sees Asahel following him. Abner knows who he is, but asks him “Then Abner looked behind him, and said, Art thou Asahel? And he answered, I am.” (2 Samuel 2:20)

Abner now knows who his pursuer is. Not only is Asahel David’s nephew, he is also Joab’s nephew. Abner does not want to be responsible for Asahel’s injury or death. Abner warns Asahel to attack one of the younger men.

“And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armour. But Asahel would not turn aside from following of him.” (2 Samuel 2:21)

Although Asahel is fast, he hasn’t thought this chase to its conclusion. Abner once again tells him to stop the chase, but Asahel refuses. Then Abner stops and rams the butt end of his spear through Asahel.

“Howbeit he refused to turn aside: wherefore Abner with the hinder end of the spear smote him under the fifth rib, that the spear came out behind him; and he fell down there, and died in the same place: and it came to pass, that as many as came to the place where Asahel fell down and died stood still.” (2 Samuel 2:23)

Stay tuned…

“The Pool of Gibeon”

 “And Joab the son of Zeruiah, and the servants of David, went out, and met together by the pool of Gibeon: and they sat down, the one on the one side of the pool, and the other on the other side of the pool.” (2 Samuel 2:13)

Background

“But Abner the son of Ner, captain of Saul’s host, took Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and brought him over to Mahanaim;” (2 Samuel 2:8)

Abner, the military leader of Saul’s army, anointed Ishbosheth as King, then took him far enough away from David’s army to buy time to reequip and prepare the army for war.

David is in Hebron as commanded by God. David is the King of Judah, the captain of his military force is Joab. David’s army waits for guidance from God.

The Meeting at the Pool of Gibeon

Abner had chosen the Pool of Gibeon as the place of battle. Gibeon was controlled by the tribe of Benjamin where Saul had support. This was foretold at Jacob’s deathbed in Egypt, “Benjamin shall ravin as a wolf: in the morning he shall devour the prey, and at night he shall divide the spoil.” (Genesis 49:27) Abner had picked the place and invited Joab to meet there.

Joab eagerly agreed. “And Joab the son of Zeruiah, and the servants of David, went out, and met together by the pool of Gibeon: and they sat down, the one on the one side of the pool, and the other on the other side of the pool.” (2 Samuel 2:13)

12 Vs 12

Abner suggests that 12 of his men will “play” a game with 12 of David’s men. It is one on one combat, more of a sport than a real battle. “And Abner said to Joab, Let the young men now arise, and play before us. And Joab said, Let them arise.” (2 Samuel 2:14)

What happens is more of a mass suicide.

“15Then there arose and went over by number twelve of Benjamin, which pertained to Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and twelve of the servants of David.

16And they caught every one his fellow by the head, and thrust his sword in his fellow’s side; so they fell down together: wherefore that place was called Helkathhazzurim, which is in Gibeon.” (2 Samuel 2:15-16)

A very bloody battle that ended in a draw.

Conclusion

This is not the end of conflict within Israel. The battle at the Pond of Gibeon is just the beginning. But, it is certainly a wasteful situation. Ishbosheth’s general Abner had caused the battle through his aggression. David’s general Joab certainly did not withdraw. If we listen to the ancient historian Josephus (Which I will discuss later) it may have resulted in an agreed group destruction.

The battle will continue.

Stay tuned…

“Ishbosheth”

 Ish-bosheth is a Hebrew name meaning “Man of Shame”.

Two Kings

Saul and his son’s were killed in battle with the Philistines. A leadership vacuum has been created for Israel. We know that Saul had been anointed by God to be the first king, but this did not pass on to his children, or other family members. It was when God anointed David to be king that a succession had been established. David did not immediately become king, God had a plan that was still in progresss.

Ishbosheth, was Saul’s only remaining son. He was not a child, he was a 40 year old man. The question is, why wasn’t he present in the battle with his father? Using a military term, was he more interested in being “in the rear with the gear”, or perhaps more interested is staying in the comfort of King Saul’s palace?

Although a King is a King, responsible for economic, political, and military matters. There are others who operate under a King and often take control, but not responsibility. For Ishbosheth, this comes in the form of Abner. Abner was Saul’s military commander. In the court of Saul, Abner was the second in command of Israel. As with all the other Kingdoms around Israel, this problem has existed into the current world. Court intrigue is always a problem.

The difference between King Ishbosheth and King David is God. David knows he was already anointed to replace Saul as the King of Israel, but he had the patience and faith to do what God had told him. For now, David is the King of the tribe of Judah, and others from other tribes come to follow him.

“10Ishbosheth Saul’s son was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel, and reigned two years. But the house of Judah followed David.

11And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months.”

Things will change.

Stay Tuned…

“Achar David”

 “And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.” (2 Samuel 2:1)

Background

Saul and Jonathon had been killed leading Israel. Samuel had anointed Saul as the first King of Israel. Samuel had also anointed David to be Saul’s successor. The Kingdoms surrounding Israel had a succession that stayed within a family group. If the King dies, a Queen, or Prince would assume control of the Kingdom. There was no family connection between Saul and David.

Where to Go

David’s question about where he should go was not open-ended, but more directed, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” David knew he had been anointed by Samuel as King of all Israel, he was not in a hurry to take that position. David is looking to God for direction.

God tells David to “Go up” into Judah, and David asked further, “Whither shall I go up?”. God replied, “Unto Hebron.”

David took God at his word. He packed up his family and followers to Hebron and settled his followers in the cities surrounding Hebron. The people of Hebron anointed him King of Judah.

Jabeshgilead

The first time we hear about Jabeshgilead is during the time of the Judges when Jephthah delivered Gilead from the Ammonites. The area of Gilead had been under constant pressure from the Ammonites. With Israel wanting a King, the countries around Israel realize there is unrest among the Tribes of Israel. Saul was anointed King of Israel. Saul’s first battle was with the Ammonites, and God delivered the Ammonites into Saul’s hand.

When Saul died, the people of Jabeshgilead buried Saul.

“5And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabeshgilead, and said unto them, Blessed be ye of the LORD, that ye have shewed this kindness unto your lord, even unto Saul, and have buried him.

6And now the LORD shew kindness and truth unto you: and I also will requite you this kindness, because ye have done this thing.

7Therefore now let your hands be strengthened, and be ye valiant: for your master Saul is dead, and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.” (2 Samuel 2:5-7)

Stay Tuned…

“David’s Lament”

 “And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son:” (2 Samuel 1:17)

Introduction

A lament is a cry of extreme sorry. A lamentation is a poem or song, in the modern world the Laments of the Irish and Scottish are some of my favorites. David is mourning the death of God’s anointed king for Israel. David, of course, realized the evil of Saul; David also saw the protection of Saul was because God had selected Saul for a reason.

The Following is the David’s Lament for Saul and Jonathan.

David’s Lament

18(Also he bade them teach the children of Judah the use of the bow: behold, it is written in the book of Jasher.)

19The beauty of Israel is slain upon thy high places: how are the mighty fallen!

20Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon; lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.

21Ye mountains of Gilboa, let there be no dew, neither let there be rain, upon you, nor fields of offerings: for there the shield of the mighty is vilely cast away, the shield of Saul, as though he had not been anointed with oil.

22From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

23Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.

24Ye daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, who clothed you in scarlet, with other delights, who put on ornaments of gold upon your apparel.

25How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan, thou wast slain in thine high places.

26I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women.

27How are the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished! (2 Samuel 1:18-27)