Psalms – Lesson 7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series PSALMS with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 7.Your Mercy Reaches Unto the Heavens |
In this lesson, we delve into a central theme of biblical teaching: the boundless goodness of God. Through the exploration of Psalms, particularly Psalm 103, we discover how God’s goodness is manifested in His creation, His actions, and His covenant with humanity. This lesson invites us to recognize and appreciate God’s goodness in our own lives, responding by blessing Him and remembering His countless blessings. Let’s immerse ourselves in the abundance of God’s goodness, which stretches as far as the sky itself.
Memory Text: Psalm 57:9.10 – “I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing to You among the nations. For Your mercy reaches unto the heavens, and Your truth unto the clouds.”
Content:
7.1 His Mercy Endures Forever
Psalm 136 calls for praise of God’s unwavering goodness, evident in both creation and Israel’s history. The refrain “His mercy endures forever” underscores God’s steadfastness to His people, showcasing His unmatched greatness and authority. The psalm concludes with a call for global worship of God, extending His mercy not only to Israel but to all creation.
7.2 Create in Me a Clean Heart
Psalm 51 is an impassioned prayer of King David, pleading for forgiveness of his sins and asking God to create a clean heart within him. David recognizes God’s grace as the sole remedy for his guilt, appealing to God’s mercy and faithfulness. He longs to be cleansed both externally and internally through divine forgiveness, desiring restoration to fellowship with God.
7.3 “If You, Lord, Should Mark Iniquities”
Psalm 130 reflects deep-seated guilt felt by the psalmist and the people, threatening to separate them from God. Despite the gravity of sin, the psalmist, grounded in God’s mercy and forgiveness, calls for hope. The plea for forgiveness and reliance on the Lord serve as sources of hope and comfort, involving the community in prayer and hope. Ultimately, hope in God’s redemption is described as the response to sincere repentance and expectation.
7.4 Praise to the Majestic and Merciful God
Psalms 113 and 123 reveal two fundamental aspects of God’s nature: His exaltation and His grace. While God’s exaltation is emphasized through the majesty of His name and throne above all nations and heavens, His grace is evident in His care for the needy and oppressed. These psalms encourage worship and praise of a God who is both exalted and gracious, motivating worship through both His glory and His love.
7.5 Forget Not All His Benefits
Psalm 103 reminds us not to forget the many blessings God bestows upon us. His goodness is evident in His faithfulness to His people and His mercy towards our weaknesses. We are urged to bless God by praising His kind attributes and remembering His covenant and blessings, responding with love and obedience. These verses remind us to daily contemplate the sacrifice of Jesus and seek refuge in repentance and humility at the foot of the cross.
7.6 Summary
Lesson 7 underscores the boundless goodness of God, manifested in His creation and actions towards humanity. Through exploration of various Psalms, particularly Psalm 103, we realize that God’s goodness knows no bounds. Students are encouraged to recognize and appreciate God’s goodness in their own lives, responding with gratitude and worship.
Psalms – Lesson 6: I Will Arise | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series PSALMS with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 6.I Will Arise |
Lesson 6 delves into the Psalms to explore various aspects of God’s character. The Psalms vividly portray God as a mighty warrior and judge, fiercely combating evil and liberating His people. Simultaneously, they underscore His special care for the weak and oppressed. The lesson invites an exploration of the multifaceted nature of God through the inspirational texts of the Psalms.
Memory Text: Psalm 12:5 – “‘For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now I will arise,’ says the Lord; ‘I will set him in the safety for which he yearns’”
Content:
6.1 The Mighty Warrior
Psalms 18:4–19; 76:4–10.13 and 144:5–7 present the Lord as a powerful warrior and judge, protecting His people from evil forces. These verses reveal God’s determination and action against threats to His people. The imagery of hail, lightning, and arrows emphasizes the severity and urgency of His response. King David emphasizes that liberation ultimately comes through God’s power, not human means, praising God as the sole liberator and sustainer of His people.
6.2 Justice for the Oppressed
The Psalms emphasize God’s special concern for the oppressed, poor, and disadvantaged. These texts remind us that justice and care for the weak are central aspects of God’s divine nature. The Psalms call for resistance against oppression and encourage placing trust not solely in human methods but in God’s wisdom. The Christian message complements this by identifying Christ with the poor and promising eternal life, while Jesus, as the divine judge, will rectify any mistreatment of the disadvantaged.
6.3 How Long Will You Judge Unjustly?
Psalm 82 admonishes the leaders of Israel to use the authority given by God for justice. The accusations against the “gods” in this Psalm refer to human leaders neglecting their duties and oppressing the people. This serves as a stark warning that abuse of power and injustice before God does not go unnoticed. The Psalm emphasizes the leaders’ responsibility to align with God’s will, emphasizing that their authority should be based on faithfulness to God, not human strength. It reminds everyone, leaders and people alike, that ultimately, they will be held accountable before God.
6.4 Pour Out Your Indignation
Psalms 58:7–9; 69:23–29; 83:10–17; 94:1–2 and 137:7–9 convey a mood of outrage and pain in the face of injustice and oppression. The psalmists call for divine retribution and implore God to avenge those who have caused harm. Despite these Psalms contrasting with the teaching of enemy love, they simultaneously show the psalmist taking justice seriously and being concerned about evil in the world. The Psalms prophetically announce God’s impending judgment, expressing the agonizing experiences of the suffering. God’s retribution is seen as an expression of justice and grace, encouraging prayers for the repentance of oppressors and hope for the coming of God’s kingdom.
6.5 The Lord’s Judgment and the Sanctuary
Psalms 96:6–10; 99:1–4 and 132:7–9.13–18 emphasize the close connection between God’s judgment and the sanctuary. The sanctuary is depicted as the place of divine judgment where the world is judged for sin and wickedness. This connection helps us understand that the sanctuary is not only the place of forgiveness but also the place where righteousness is restored. It highlights that God’s holiness forms the basis for justice and righteousness that His people should aspire to. The sanctuary is, therefore, the place of forgiveness and restoration, while God’s judgment punishes the evil deeds of unrepentant individuals. The Psalms evoke joyful anticipation of God’s arrival as a judge, particularly on the Day of Atonement. Similarly, the Psalms reinforce the certainty of the imminent arrival of the divine judge, Jesus Christ, in the heavenly sanctuary.
6.6 Summary
Lesson 6 underscores the portrayal of God’s power as a mighty warrior and judge through the Psalms. The texts reveal God’s resolute and powerful response to His people’s suffering. King David, himself a successful warrior, emphasizes that liberation ultimately comes from God’s hand, urging recognition of God as the sole liberator and sustainer. Simultaneously, other Psalms highlight God’s special concern for the oppressed, urging a commitment to justice.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/psalms-lesson-6-i-will-arise-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/
Psalms – Lesson 5: Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series PSALMS with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 5.Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land |
In the captivating Lesson 5, various Psalms are examined that delve into existential themes such as suffering, illness, the apparent absence of God, and the challenges posed by the prosperity of the wicked. The authors lament the destruction of Jerusalem, personal struggles on the brink of death, profound suffering in the perceived absence of God, and the seeming inconsistency of divine promises. Despite these challenges, the Psalms emphasize faith in God’s sovereignty and the necessity of communication with God amid adversity and trials.
Memory Text: Psalm 137:4 – “How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land?”
Content:
5.1 The Days of Evil
The Psalms reflect the theological struggle between good and evil. The destruction of Jerusalem is considered a divine scandal, giving the heathens a reason to blaspheme God. The Psalmist acknowledges that the sins of the people have damaged their relationship with God and emphasizes the need for God’s merciful intervention to restore the covenant. Defending the character of God in the world is crucial, as only through the salvation of His people is His name justified and praised. This principle holds true today, as our actions influence not only ourselves but also the God we profess.
5.2 At Death’s Door
Psalms such as 41, 88, and 102 convey intense prayers for deliverance from illness and death. The Psalmist describes physical weakness, social isolation, and existential despair. Some Psalms recognize that innocent suffering can be part of life, while others point to the connection between sin and illness. Despite accusations against God, the Psalms cling to a deep faith that holds onto God’s love and redemption even in challenging times. These texts emphasize that God’s sovereignty over suffering and redemption provides hope, especially when viewed in the light of the suffering of Christ.
5.3 Where is God?
Psalms like 42, 63, 69, and 102 bear witness to the deep sorrow of the Psalmist due to the apparent absence of God. The isolation from God is felt as thirst in a dry land and a fear of death. The Psalmist feels alienated and compares themselves to lonely birds. Nevertheless, the Psalmists choose not to remain silent in the face of God’s silence. Their faith in prayer remains unshaken, knowing that God, though seemingly absent, is still the living and gracious God. The Psalms teach that communication with God must continue amid trials, as God will not remain silent forever.
5.4 Has His Promise Failed Forevermore?
Psalm 77 depicts the emotional rollercoaster of the Psalmist, who calls out to God in deep sorrow. The remembrance of God’s past actions evokes not only comfort but also questions about whether God has changed or might break His covenant. The apparent absence of God leads to sleepless nights, yet the Psalmist overcomes this phase, realizing that God’s assurances are not in explanations but in the confirmation of His faithfulness. The Psalmist’s conclusion emphasizes the mysterious and sovereign ways of God, often incomprehensible to human eyes.
5.5 Lest the Righteous Be Tempted
Psalms, including 37, 49, 94, and 125, deal with the prosperity of the wicked and the difficulties it poses for the righteous. The wicked thrive, despise God, and oppress others, creating a perplexing problem for the Psalmist. Psalm 73 focuses on the injustices of the world, but the Psalmist finds comfort when led to the sanctuary, recognizing that God’s sovereign rule changes the perspective on the end times. The Psalms teach that spiritual insight and trust in God’s sovereign plan are necessary to overcome the challenges of the world.
5.6 Summary
In Lesson 5, various Psalms are explored, addressing existential themes such as suffering, illness, the apparent absence of God, and the challenge of the prosperity of the wicked. The authors of the Psalms lament the destruction of Jerusalem, personal struggles on the brink of death, deep suffering in the perceived absence of God, and the apparent inconsistency of God’s promises. Despite these challenges, faith in God’s sovereignty and the necessity of communication with God amid suffering and trials remain.
Psalms – Lesson 4: The Lord Hears and Delivers | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series PSALMS with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 4.The Lord Hears and Delivers |
In Lesson 4, the powerful message of the Psalms about God’s power, presence, and care is thoroughly explored. Psalm 139 vividly conveys that God’s knowledge of us is profound and unique. In contrast to human help, which is limited, God has the means to assist us. The assurance of God’s care, especially emphasized in Psalm 121, reveals that God secures our life’s path and provides comprehensive protection. In times of trouble, the Lord is a refuge, as illustrated in Psalms 17, 31, and 91, encouraging believers to trust in God’s proven care. The Psalms also illustrate God’s sovereignty over natural forces, particularly in Psalm 114, which views the liberation from Egypt as a symbol of God’s power. The help from the sanctuary is depicted as superior refuge and redemption, emphasizing the holiness of the sanctuary and inviting believers to trust in the heavenly throne of grace. The worship in the sanctuary becomes an impressive representation of redemption through Jesus Christ.
Memory Text: Psalm 34:17 – “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles.”
Content:
4.1 My Frame Was Not Hidden From You
Psalm 139 eloquently describes God’s power, presence, and goodness. The poetic depiction emphasizes that God’s knowledge of us is profound and unique. Unlike human help, which is often limited, God knows us intimately and has the means to help us. This awareness should not frighten us but lead us into the embrace of Jesus. God’s presence is emphasized by showing that there is no place beyond His reach. The greatness of God invites us to burst into joy and to fully trust in His help and deliverance.
4.2 Assurance of God’s Care
The Bible reveals God as the living caretaker involved in our daily affairs. The Psalms, especially Psalm 121, show that God secures our life’s path, is constantly vigilant, and provides physical and spiritual protection. His closeness is emphasized by the image of the right hand, and poetic images of the sun, moon, coming and going underscore God’s comprehensive care. The psalmist relied on this loving care of God, and so should we place our trust in His protective hand.
4.3 The Lord Is a Refuge in Adversity
The psalmist reveals in Psalms 17, 31, and 91 that the Lord is a refuge in times of trouble. In the midst of difficulties, the psalmist turns confidently to God, his secure fortress and shield. The image of the shadow of God’s wings provides comfort and security, similar to the protection offered by a bird mother or a hen. These metaphysical images underscore the psalmist’s trust in God’s proven care, rooted in his past experience and strengthening his faith for the future. Trust in God is the conscious decision to acknowledge God’s sovereignty over one’s life under all circumstances.
4.4 Defender and Deliverer
The poetic depiction of God’s marvelous deliverance in Psalm 114 vividly illustrates His sovereignty over natural forces and human powers. This deliverance from Egypt is seen in the Old and New Testaments as a symbol of God’s power to save His people. Paul interprets the Exodus from Egypt in 1 Corinthians 10:1–4 as a spiritual lesson, considering the story as a metaphor for salvation through Jesus Christ. Amid the dangers on the way to the heavenly Jerusalem, the Psalms encourage believers to trust in the Creator of heaven and earth. Jesus himself echoes the spirit of Psalm 114 by calming the storm and declaring that the Church has nothing to fear, as he has overcome the world. The great deeds of the Lord should make the earth tremble in His presence, not out of fear, but in acknowledgment and worship. With God by their side, believers have nothing to fear.
4.5 Help From the Sanctuary
In the mentioned Psalms, help is primarily associated with the sanctuary. The sanctuary serves as a place of refuge, security, and redemption. God defends the oppressed, gives strength from His sanctuary, and proclaims righteous judgments. The refuge in the sanctuary surpasses the safety of other places, as God personally dwells in His presence. This aspect finds parallels in the New Testament, where Jesus is mentioned as the High Priest who empathizes with our weaknesses, and believers are encouraged to boldly approach the throne of grace, the heavenly sanctuary. The holiness of the sanctuary requires humility and acknowledgment of one’s sinfulness, while also emphasizing God’s grace and faithfulness, leading to a right relationship with God through repentance and acceptance of forgiveness. The worship in the sanctuary thus becomes a representation of the redemption found through Jesus.
4.6 Summary
The lesson emphasizes the impressive power, presence, and goodness of God, poetically described in Psalm 139. It illustrates that God not only knows us intimately but also has the means to help us. The assurance of God’s care is emphasized through Psalms like 121, highlighting the safety and protection of the sanctuary. In times of trouble, the Lord is a refuge, as shown in Psalms 17, 31, and 91, and believers are encouraged to build their trust confidently on God. The Psalms also illustrate God’s sovereignty over natural forces, particularly in Psalm 114, which considers the liberation from Egypt as a symbol of God’s power. Help from the sanctuary is portrayed in the Psalms as superior refuge and redemption, emphasizing the holiness of the sanctuary and inviting believers to trust in the heavenly throne of grace. The worship in the sanctuary becomes a representation of redemption found through Jesus Christ.
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