Category Archives: kingdom of God

a house for the LORD

Posted on January 17, 2013 by Jefferson Vann

1 Chronicles 17 It began in David’s heart as he noticed that he was living in a fine cedar house, but the presence of the LORD (as symbolized by the ark) was residing in a tent.  David wanted to build … Continue reading →

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the psalm of thrones

Posted on January 10, 2013 by Jefferson Vann

Psalm 9 God has rescued the king by sitting on his own throne, and giving righteous judgment against his enemies (4). The LORD sits enthroned forever, and has established justice (7).  Therefore it is right for his people to sing … Continue reading →

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building a house

Posted on September 17, 2012 by Jefferson Vann

2 Samuel 7 David had determined to build a house (temple) for God.  God said no.  Instead, the LORD responded to David’s intention by promising to build David a house (dynasty).  David’s dynasty lives on to this day in the … Continue reading →

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time for a king … or not

Posted on August 22, 2012 by Jefferson Vann

1 Samuel 8 The people were tired of how God was working out his will among them.  They wanted a king, and they demanded that Samuel appoint one.  The LORD told Samuel to relent and give them a king, and … Continue reading →

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clinging to Mara

Posted on August 12, 2012 by Jefferson Vann

Ruth 1 “LORD, are you there?  Do you listen to the prayers of a Moabite woman?  I thought you loved me.  You brought a wonderful family into my life, and showed me what it is like to live within your … Continue reading →

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organized apostasy

Posted on August 8, 2012 by Jefferson Vann

Judges 18 This passage continues the depressing story of Micah and the Levite that began in chapter 17.  The reader can see to what extent the Danites were moved by greed and resorted to violence and idolatry to get what … Continue reading →

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setting the stage

Posted on July 22, 2012 by Jefferson Vann

Judges 1 The ESV Study Bible writes “The military encounters here are reminders that the peace at the end of the book of Joshua was short-lived. Judah was given a leadership role, and they allied with Simeon against the remaining … Continue reading →

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missions and miscommunication

Posted on July 20, 2012 by Jefferson Vann

Joshua 22 The eastern tribes were on their way back to their homes after serving the LORD and their brothers by helping out in the conquest.  They had done their duty and their western brothers were grateful.  But then something … Continue reading →

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missions and conflict #2

Posted on July 13, 2012 by Jefferson Vann

Joshua 11-12 Just as it was in the conquest of the Soutrhern lands, the kings of the Northern lands conspired in an alliance and came against Joshua, and the LORD gave them into the hands of Israel.  The reason was … Continue reading →

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our missions–his victories

Posted on July 8, 2012 by Jefferson Vann

Joshua 6 Most of us are used to reading Joshua 6 as a Sunday School story – one that encourages believers to stay in line and shout when we’re told to (or something like that).  Another way to read it … Continue reading →

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