psalm 23 commentary john macarthur

Here David pictures God as a gracious host who provides all that he needs even in times of apparent difficulty. The enemy was strongly entrenched there, and was determined to stay. Still, David has decided to praise God no matter what happens. There are few experiences in life that would be more satisfying. John MacArthur brings you a complete Bible commentary in one volume. "Depth and strength underlie the simplicity of this psalm. Thats why Psalm 23 is crucially relevant even today. Nothing is outside of His control. In these verses, the metaphor changes from God as shepherd to God as host at a special banquet. But we need to learn to lie down. This verse doesn't mean that there will not be times of drought, valleys, difficulties and need--- far from it God loves you too much to just make things always easy! Johannine Writings Now David wasn't saying here that 'the Lord is my Shepherd, whom I do not want'! Its interesting to note how David used the word shepherd in this psalm instead of a more distant term like a king or a deliverer. Since the text and audio content provided by BLB represent a They have been comforted, strengthened, and warmed by the thought that the LORD would shepherd them through the valley of the shadow of death. (12) I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. In the end, in whatever it is that places you in fear or unease, you have to come back to this very thought we are speaking of here - 'The Lord is my shepherd' - He is in control of all things. General Epistles 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). Near death, the saint does not walk in the valley, but through the valley. GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Select an Ending Point 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. Please see our Privacy Policy for cookie usage details. Bible Commentary by John Macarthur - AbeBooks Blue Letter Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. 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 for ever. (Spurgeon), (c) 2020 The Enduring Word Bible Commentary by David Guzik ewm@enduringword.com. The image portrays that God has the power to feed and protect David. Daily devotional with John Piper. The writer asserts their faith in God amidst trials and tribulations through this Psalm. They will lead us to places of rest and provision. The MacArthur Bible Commentary | Logos Bible Software in the resource materials are not necessarily affirmed, in total, by this ministry. The New Testament speaks of Jesus as anointed (Luke 4:18; John 20:31; Acts 5:42; Hebrews 1:9, etc.). It is a song of gratitude that resonates with the authors heart and trust in God. Wisdom Literature This is the joy of the Christian! Prophets It's not for the goats. The Hebrew word, sulhan (table), could refer to an animal hide spread on the ground like a picnic blanket. Major Prophets Everything will be ok. The New Testament The shadow of a dog cannot bite; the shadow of a sword cannot kill; the shadow of death cannot destroy us. (Spurgeon), iii. They will not lie down if they are afraid. When people die, we think of them as having entered the valley of the shadow of death, but the same is true for their loved ones. Are any of us low in grace? David knew all about this. Luke-Acts With joy you will draw water out of the wells of salvation (Isaiah 12:3). The New Testament What are these still waters but the influences and graces of his blessed Spirit? Changes will take effect once you reload the page. The Old Testament We go through the dark tunnel of death and emerge into the light of immortality. Now this place of rest is, first and foremost spiritually speaking, right in the midst of the problem. My cup runs over. GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation. Otherwise you will be prompted again when opening a new browser window or new a tab. If we could be saved from wrath, and yet remain unregenerate, impenitent sinners, we should not be saved as we desire, for we mainly and chiefly pant to be saved from sin and led in the way of holiness.[4]. Thank God for such times! It isnt his destination or dwelling place. It has comforted the noble host of the poor. The sweetest word of the whole is that monosyllable, My. He does not say, The Lord is the shepherd of the world at large, and leadeth forth the multitude as his flock, but The Lord is my shepherd; if he be a Shepherd to no one else, he is a Shepherd to me; he cares for me, watches over me, and preserves me. The words are in the present tense. Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. Companionship -- for you are with me. In light of all these truths, we must respond promptly. They will not lie down when there is conflict among the sheep. God anoints His people with oil just like how shepherds anoint their sheep with oil. God as our shepherd not only leads but restores as well. That is some revelation! You anoint my head with oil. ), Mounces Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2006), Renn, Stephen D., Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words: Word Studies for Key English Bible Words Based on the Hebrew and Greek Texts (Peabody, Massachusetts: Hendrickson Publishers, Inc., 2005), Richards, Lawrence O., Encyclopedia of Bible Words (Zondervan, 1985, 1991), Sakenfeld, Katharine Doob (ed. [1] As I mentioned, this is one famous Psalm. When I asked the oncologist how serious it was, he said, Stage threemaybe Stage three and a half. My chances of survival were less than 50-50. The analogy of a king as a shepherd is common in ancient times and is not unusual. He will sustain and provide for all of His peoples needs. As I said, it wasn't all easy and plain sailing being a sheep in Israel however. The sheep didnt know where the green pastures and still waters were. The anointing of oil to the sheep isnt just a meaningless ritual. i. When the psalmist says that God has anointed his head with oil, he means that God has marked him as specialhas set him apart for a significant role. What confidence for this life this should give us as we believe it in faith! These valleys were often dark because of the shadow caused by the cliffs, and they were a favourite place for predators to hide in. The sense of this verse then is that, because God is loving and kind, his people can expect God to provide blessings throughout life. Text: Psalm 23 Ministry: Anchored. Significantly, it is at the dangerous moment pictured in the psalm that the He of Psalm 23:1-3 changes to You. The LORD as Shepherd is now in the second person. i. (wpe). Poetical Books He is no longer speaking about God, but is instead speaking to God. Poetical Books Yea, prosperity not only so intoxicates many, as to carry them . Behold just such a one! SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS are from the World English Bible (WEB), a public domain (no copyright) modern English translation of the Holy Bible. But if it is an honor to be invited to the Presidents home, it is an infinitely greater honor to be invited to the Lords house. Forever. of Scripture. 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. Sure enough, someone guessed pretty quickly that it would be Psalm 23. God is his shepherd and his Goda God all-sufficient to all intents and purposes. The MacArthur Bible Commentary: John MacArthur: 9780785250661: Amazon The MacArthur Bible Commentary: John MacArthur: 9780785250661 Psalms 23 - The Pulpit Commentaries - StudyLight.org To experience the care and guidance of God as a shepherd, we must identify ourselves as His sheep. It is expressed in this verse - Rom Nor have I ever heard an audible voice that was clearly God's telling me which decisions to make. It has remanded to their dungeon more felon thoughts, more black doubts, more thieving sorrows, than there are sands on the sea-shore. Is - Can you say that? The overflowing cup symbolizes the Lords generosity. Psalm 23 - Sermon On the Lord is My Shepherd - Study and Obey I have called you by your name. In Psalm 22 He is the foundation; in Psalm 23 He is the manifestation; in Psalm 24 He is the expectation. Sermons from the Book of Psalms | Grace to You - SermonAudio Wisdom Literature Its also of paramount importance to recognize that the shepherd in this psalm connotes more than someone who merely herds the flock. And let's not forget they are prone to wander. This psalm is so personal, with the pronoun I or My, being used commonly. But despite this I got on with her pretty well. Click to enable/disable _ga - Google Analytics Cookie. It has remanded to their dungeon more felon thoughts, more black doubts, more thieving sorrows, than there are sands on the sea-shore. A number of our soldiers died there. Maclaren writes: The rod and the staff seem to be two names for one instrument, which was used both to beat off predatory animals and to direct the sheep.. The writer of Psalm 23 makes an analogy between God and the shepherd. David envisioned God as a benevolent host who prepared a grand banquet. A great promise indeed! To be invited to a persons table was an honor. He was faithful in caring for his flock and never complained about his responsibilities. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.. The intimate portrayal of God as a shepherd is what makes Psalm 23 unique and unforgettable. When the sheep are hungry or are anxious about food, they cant lie down peacefully. Passwords should have at least 6 characters. Wisdom Literature (7) And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. The word my cup runs over indicates that David not only had the necessities but also enjoyed abundance. It doesn't mean that anything outwardly has to change. But the shepherds here use dogs and fences to drive and control the sheep. Psalm 23:4 Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. He wanted to depict the marvelous work of God in his life and encourage many believers with his testimony. 19 (Dallas: Word Books, 1983), Hartley, J.E., in Bromiley, Geoffrey (General Editor), The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, Volume Three: K-P Revised (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1986), Keller, W. Phillip, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1970, 2007, 2015), Kidner, Derek, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries: Psalms 1-72, Vol. Though the majority of the occurrences of hesed are translated steadfast love, there are undeniable elements of mercy and kindness that underlie each of these occurrences (Renn, 633-634). Its evident in this verse how David recognizes Gods lordship over his life. Psalm 23 is written by David who grew up as a shepherd. Almost everyone, whether religious or not, has heard Psalm 23 because it is quoted so frequently. We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. 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. We might say that the shepherds presence did not eliminate the presence of evil, but certainly the fear of evil. It is for 'His name's sake' that He does this. My cup runs over. Psalm 23 Bible Study - Jesus our Great Shepherd! (1.) John MacArthur: The Lord Is My Salvation - YouTube So to be Gods guest is to be more than an acquaintance, invited for a day. It is for His name's sake and His glory that this is done! It is a Psalm of but 6 verses but countless sermons and entire books have been written on it. and Kahane, Ahuvia, The Oxford English-Hebrew Dictionary (Oxford University Press, 1998), Fohrer, Georg, Hebrew & Aramaic Dictionary of the Old Testament (SCM Press, 2012), Freedman, David Noel (ed. and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. Other than the president and family, only a handful of people have been invited to make the White House their homeand then only for a few years. i. Liberated for Life : Galatians - a Bible Commentary for Laymen by John F. MacArthur and a great selection of related books, art and collectibles available now at AbeBooks.com. They know that through all things, Jesus is a good shepherd. iii. In the Bible, anointing was used to designate a person for a significant role. David claimed that the same God who faithfully rescued the Israelites from Egypt and provided guidance and provision in the wilderness is the same faithful God he served. Surely goodness (Hebrew: tob) and loving kindness (Hebrew: hesed) shall follow me all the days of my life (v. 6a). The image exudes a sense of rest, comfort, and care. [12] You will only be able to say that if you have truly come to know the Lord Jesus as your Shepherd. (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1979-1988), Brown, Francis; Driver, S.R. His anointing set him apart for his unique role as prophet, priest, and king. Therefore, when the shepherd started heading off on another journey the sheep followed wherever he went! John MacArthur, Pastor-Teacher. Thankfully I didn't go far down that track but it can plant this little seed of fear in your mind if you let it. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. One where 'the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. In Psalm 22 Christ is the Saviour; in Psalm 23 He is the Satisfier; in Psalm 24 He is the Sovereign. Instead of speaking about his Shepherd, David speaks to Him. They would travel from oasis to oasis. In the presence of my enemies: This is a striking phrase. You may be in a dark place but you must keep walking. The MacArthur Bible Commentary. The center point of this psalm is for you are with me. In the original Hebrew language, there are 26 words before this phrase, and 26 afterwards (Limburg, 74). You will have much more pressing concerns. He had been chased and pursued as he ran from his enemies who sought to take his life. 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. But it is still the path that leads to righteousness. The paths that the Shepherd takes us on are the righteous or 'right' paths. Psalm 23:2-3 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters; he restores my soul. (23) Seller Location . God is the one who looks after our lives. David wrote this while remembering his fearful experiences. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Would you prayerfully consider a gift of support today? David reflected on God's many blessings to him and concluded that God would continue to be faithful to him and grant him fellowship in the future. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Psalm 22 speaks of the past; Psalm 23 speaks of the present; and Psalm 24 speaks of the future. Pentateuch Sometimes it goes through the dark valley as the next verse indicates. Psalm 23 is written by David who grew up as a shepherd. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His names sake.. 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. You prepare a table (Hebrew: sulhan) before me in the presence of my enemies (v. 5a). 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. 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. In the United States, a signal honor would be an invitation to stay overnight in the Lincoln bedroom in the White House. Psalm 40 - The Pit and the Pierced Ear in the Paths of God, Psalm 41: The pattern of betrayal - Past, present and future (P1), Psalm 55: The pattern of betrayal: Past, present and future (P2), Psalm 69 - The restoration and the zeal of the Lord, Psalm 102 - Change and the Unchangeable One, Psalm 110: Jesus the Messiah - Our Lord and King, Psalm 110: Jesus our priest in the order of Melchizedek. It is well to know, as certainly as David did, that we belong to the Lord. He wrote: Unlike in the west where people get multiple jobs, here the jobs are very rare. In Psalms 23:3, Psalms 23:4 the spiritual meaning shines through the figure, as in Psalms 23:5, Psalms 23:6 it is laid aside altogether; yet still the psalmist speaks of the "rod and staff." "Rod," the shepherd's crook, the received emblem of authority, guidance, and discipline. The Gospels Grace Community Church 13248 Roscoe Blvd. Click to enable/disable essential site cookies. David wrote Psalm 23 based on his experiences with God. He first spoke them for Israels sake, but he caused Isaiah to record them for our sake. The psalmist genuinely expressed his understanding and experience with God as his shepherd. Now mine was a recent silly example. He is the source of life and a great provider. Usernames should only contain letters, numbers, dots, dashes, or underscores. We need to hear those words as if God intended them for usbecause he did. In that culture, people considered a persons name to be more than a simple label to identify that person. The primary responsibility of a shepherd is to ensure the well-being and safety of the flock. And yet through it all he could look back and write 'the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want'. Welcome to FaithGiant, where you can find everything you need to live a life of faith, hope, and love. We can imagine various meanings for the valley of the shadow of death.. [11] I have heard of more extreme cases of discipline amongst Middle Eastern Shepherds. John MacArthur is the pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, as well as an author, conference speaker, president of The Master's University and Seminary, and featured teacher with the Grace to You media ministry. Title The entire collection of Psalms is entitled "Praises" in the Hebrew text. Lets look at the meaning and significance of each verse written in Psalm 23. MON 10/20/2014. It has charmed more griefs to rest than all the philosophy of the world.

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