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RASH ACTIONS
A prostitute sat at the entry to the city to ensnare a certain passer by. The certain passer by was Judah and the prostitute wasn't just any prostitute, she was Judah's daughter-in-law, Tamar. Tamar was successful and when Judah saw her, thinking she was a prostitute "He went over to her by the roadside and said, 'Come now, let me sleep with you.'"
If we read between the lines we could quite easily get the impression that this was something that Judah was known to do. Tamar knew that she could trap him that way and Judah did not seem to have any hesitation in sleeping with a prostitute. It may not have seemed like a life changing event to him at the time. It was to be one night of pleasure and then he could go away and forget about it. But not this time. His quick decision was a life changing decision and it changed the whole course of history. That one moment of pleasure left him with results that he would not have chosen.
The lesson for us is a simple one. Let us always consider the long term repercussions of any action we take. Would we want to be caught in a compromising situation as Judah was? What could happen if we go through with our action? Will we regret our action or will we be proud of it later on? Let us not take our actions lightly but consider them and make godly decisions.
Robert Prins [Auckland - Pakuranga - (NZ)] Comment added in 2002 Reply to Robert
Genesis 38 - Another record of deliberate contrasts. Whilst Joseph has been sold as a slave into Egypt, a land that knew not the God of heaven, of whom Joseph must now have felt at least neglected, if not totally abandoned altogether, his older brother Judah willingly separates from the family compound, and his mischief's are here chronicled. Whilst in the following chapter - Genesis 39 - Joseph's incredible fidelity, even when every opportunity is afforded him to indulge, is documented; Judah's true character is revealed here in ch 38. Not only are Judah's exploits recorded faithfully for us to learn from, but his son's also. As Moses later stated in his writings - Numbers 32:23 - "behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sins will find you out." The problem with Judah's family appears to be the problem with many men today - they are willing to have take their privileges, but they are not willing to shoulder their responsibilities.
The happiness of this chapter is found in the realisation that Tamar, though less than "pure" in her own actions, makes up one of the five women mentioned directly in the lineage of our Lord. All five women bear a social stigma of some kind. Tamar's is here evident. Rahab was a Gentile and a harlot. Ruth was a Moabitess. Bathsheba committed adultery with King David. And Mary was with child outside of wedlock with Joseph.
Cliff York [Pine Rivers (Aus)] Comment added in 2003 Reply to Cliff
Gen 38 seems to be irrelevant in the way that the story of Joseph unfolds. However it teaches us, against the background of Joseph’s faithfulness to the promises, that others in the family had little regard for those promises. The whole issue to do with raising of children – a requirement of the law of inheritance – is disregarded by the line of Judah – but is a major focus of the Canaanite!
Peter Forbes [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2004 Reply to Peter
Tamar is mentioned in Matthew 1’s genealogy, so perhaps what she did was of faith. It's a difficult story, and one for which there are a number of possibilities:
a) Was Tamar just wicked, and intent on getting something out of the wealthy family?
b) Was she intent on marrying Shela, and behaved in this way to procure him? In this case, the plan misfired because she ensnared Judah, not his son Shela.
c) Was she a woman of faith, and set out to achieve what Judah refused to do? If this IS so, she believed
in God's promises, and realised that the line of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob was the key to the future.
David Simpson [Worcester (UK)] Comment added in 2004 Reply to David
Gen 38:16 Over the years the ways of the natural man have not changed. The lusts that we face to-day are no different than they were during the life of Judah and others. Accounts such as this, have been left to remind us of our weaknesses, and that we too, can so easily fall to the ways of the flesh. When we appreciate these things, then we can attempt with our Heavenly Father's help to overcome them, and develop that spiritual man that He would have us be.
John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)] Comment added in 2004 Reply to John
This chapter brings out some of the worst aspects of human nature: Judah's lust for extra-marital sex; Tamar's deception and harlotry; Er's wickedness; Onan's dishonor (the term onanism is used in modern English). Although Judah started out badly, we shall shortly see him taking a leadership role. Judah was blessed and became the father of the royal line (Gen 49:9-12, 1Chron 2:3-15). This line started by Judah's marrying a Canaanite woman. Such is the power and mercy of the Lord to execute His plan through the oddest of people. This should give us encouragement in knowing that Yahweh is much more interested in where we are going than from where we have come.
Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)] Comment added in 2004 Reply to Michael
It is interesting that Judah chooses to move away from his family after the incidents of Joseph's abduction ,and, previously, Dinah's violation. Despite being the eldest in the family Reuben does not play a leading role in either of these, and in fact demurs about Joseph being killed. In the Dinah incident it is the next 2 in line, Simeon & Levi, who take the lead, and perhaps it is the same in the incident in Gen 37 We don't know about how enthusiastically Judah took part in the killing of the Shechemites, but certainly he does not want to kill Joseph, although he was not strong enough, or perhaps not motivated enough, to totally go against his older brothers. Nevertheless to move away from the household was not a good move, and he goes astray. It is perhaps a lesson that we need to work positively within the household, and not leave to do our own thing when we disagree or clash with others.
Wendy Johnsen [Nanaimo, BC, Canada] Comment added in 2006 Reply to Wendy
Onan was subject to what is commonly termed levirate law. Coming from the Latin levir, meaning husband's brother, this law was widespread in the Ancient Near East. It gave the family responsibility of a dead man to his brother. Onan was not prepared to honour this law because he was selfish. He knew that any son he fathered to Er's wife would inherit the blessing of the firstborn. Onan wished for that blessing to accrue to him. Later levirate law would be included in the Law of Moses (Deut 25:5-10).
Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)] Comment added in 2008 Reply to Michael
Tamar means palm (tree). There are many things that could be said about the palm, but the most important is that it is a symbol of peace and victory. That is easily seen as the crowd greeted Jesus with palm branches on His triumphant ride into Jerusalem (John 12:13).
Palms were included as decorations in Solomon’s temple, Yahweh’s house of peace and victory (1Kin 6:29). They will be included in the new temple in the Kingdom, when there is peace after the victory over sinful nations (Eze 41:18-20). Notice that there is a cherub on either side of the palm (v.19): one with the face of a man, and the other with a face of a lion. This is significant. On one side is man who is subject to death; on the other side is the lion, the king of beasts which represents the Savior Jesus as ruler of all the earth (Luke 1:32,33). The palm represents the peace and victory of the saints. They have passed from death on one hand (man - Adam), into life on the other (lion - Jesus, Savior and king) (1Cor 15:21,22).
Another example of the palm, as representing the ecclesia of Christ, is found in Song 7:7,8. Here the bridegroom (Jesus) is interacting with His bride (ecclesia). He is desirous of gathering fruit from His bride. He expects to find fruit (John 15:2). An interesting fact about the palm is that its fruit is found right at the end of its long frond. The bridegroom has to navigate the whole palm to retrieve the fruit of His bride. The Lord thoroughly, and diligently, investigates His ecclesia in the hope of finally finding fruit.
Another interesting fact about the palm is that it is an endogen: a plant that increases in size through internal growth and elongation (Wik.). The ecclesia of Christ should grow in spiritual strength and stature, internally, by the combined efforts of its brethren. It does not rely on the outside world for this.
And finally, picture the saints with their Master, palms in hands, celebrating their victory over death, and finding everlasting peace (Rev 7:9-17).
Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)] Comment added in 2009 Reply to Michael
Judah, the prodigal son
Of all those who departed from the patriarch's, only Judah repented and returned. Notice in Gen 42:3 the brothers are all back together again. Esau and Lot could presumably have returned, but didn't. So Judah is an example to us of humility and repentance. He did some terrible things, but turned round, and became the chief tribe of Israel, through whose line Jesus was later born.
Rob de Jongh [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2011 Reply to Rob
Gen 38:29 We see that the LORD works out His purpose through men and women even though, at times His purpose appears to be frustrated by the unwise actions of His servants. Jacob took a Canaanite woman Shuah.
The result was the birth of 3 sons, Er, Onan and Shelah (Gen 38:2-5). Er and Onan proved to be wicked and the LORD slew them (Gen 38:7-10). So the line of the seed promised to Abraham (Gen.12:7) was to continue through Judah and not through Shelah the son of a Canaanitess woman.
Pharez was the firstborn of the illegitimate twins fathered by Judah (Gen 38:24-30). Pharez was the first of 10 generations that would lead to King David (Ruth 4:18-21). Under the law given to Moses children of an illegitimate line were excluded from the congregation of the LORD until the 10th generation (Deut 23:2). Therefore, David was the first legitimate son in that line who could stand in the congregation and as we know, became Yahweh’s appointed King of Israel. “The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.” (Psa 33:11).
Peter Moore [Erith, UK] Comment added in 2019 Reply to Peter
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1. And it came to pass at that time <6256>, that Judah <3063> went down <3381>(8799) from his brethren <251>, and turned <5186>(8799) in to a certain <376> Adullamite <5726>, whose name <8034> was Hirah <2437>.
2. And Judah <3063> saw <7200>(8799) there a daughter <1323> of a certain <376> Canaanite <3669>, whose name <8034> was Shuah <7770>; and he took her <3947>(8799), and went in <935>(8799) unto her.
3. And she conceived <2029>(8799), and bare <3205>(8799) a son <1121>; and he called <7121>(8799) his name <8034> Er <6147>.
4. And she conceived <2029>(8799) again, and bare <3205>(8799) a son <1121>; and she called <7121>(8799) his name <8034> Onan <209>.
5. And she yet again conceived <3254>(8686), and bare <3205>(8799) a son <1121>; and called <7121>(8799) his name <8034> Shelah <7956>: and he was at Chezib <3580>, when she bare <3205>(8800) him.
6. And Judah <3063> took <3947>(8799) a wife <802> for Er <6147> his firstborn <1060>, whose name <8034> was Tamar <8559>.
7. And Er <6147>, Judah's <3063> firstborn <1060>, was wicked <7451> in the sight <5869> of the LORD <3068>; and the LORD <3068> slew <4191>(8686) him.
8. And Judah <3063> said <559>(8799) unto Onan <209>, Go in <935>(8798) unto thy brother's <251> wife <802>, and marry <2992>(8761) her, and raise up <6965>(8685) seed <2233> to thy brother <251>.
9. And Onan <209> knew <3045>(8799) that the seed <2233> should not be his; and it came to pass, when <518> he went in <935>(8802) unto his brother's <251> wife <802>, that he spilled <7843>(8765) it on the ground <776>, lest <1115> that he should give <5414>(8800) seed <2233> to his brother <251>.
10. And the thing which <834> he did <6213>(8804) displeased <3415>(8799) <5869> the LORD <3068>: wherefore he slew <4191>(8686) him also.
11. Then said <559>(8799) Judah <3063> to Tamar <8559> his daughter in law <3618>, Remain <3427>(8798) a widow <490> at thy father's <1> house <1004>, till Shelah <7956> my son <1121> be grown <1431>(8799): for he said <559>(8804), Lest peradventure he die <4191>(8799) also, as his brethren <251> did. And Tamar <8559> went <3212>(8799) and dwelt <3427>(8799) in her father's <1> house <1004>.
12. And in process <7235>(8799) of time <3117> the daughter <1323> of Shuah <7770> Judah's <3063> wife <802> died <4191>(8799); and Judah <3063> was comforted <5162>(8735), and went up <5927>(8799) unto his sheepshearers <1494>(8802) <6629> to Timnath <8553>, he and his friend <7453> Hirah <2437> the Adullamite <5726>.
13. And it was told <5046>(8714) Tamar <8559>, saying <559>(8800), Behold thy father in law <2524> goeth up <5927>(8802) to Timnath <8553> to shear <1494>(8800) his sheep <6629>.
14. And she put <5493> <0> her widow's <491> garments <899> off <5493>(8686) from her, and covered her <3680>(8762) with a vail <6809>, and wrapped herself <5968>(8691), and sat in <3427>(8799) an open <5869> place <6607>, which is by the way <1870> to Timnath <8553>; for she saw <7200>(8804) that Shelah <7956> was grown <1431>(8804), and she was not given <5414>(8738) unto him to wife <802>.
15. When Judah <3063> saw her <7200>(8799), he thought <2803>(8799) her to be an harlot <2181>(8802); because she had covered <3680>(8765) her face <6440>.
16. And he turned <5186>(8799) unto her by the way <1870>, and said <559>(8799), Go to <3051>(8798), I pray thee, let me come in <935>(8799) unto thee; (for he knew <3045>(8804) not that she was his daughter in law <3618>.) And she said <559>(8799), What wilt thou give <5414>(8799) me, that thou mayest come in <935>(8799) unto me?
17. And he said <559>(8799), I will send <7971>(8762) thee a kid <5795> <1423> from the flock <6629>. And she said <559>(8799), Wilt thou give <5414>(8799) me a pledge <6162>, till thou send <7971>(8800) it?
18. And he said <559>(8799), What <834> pledge <6162> shall I give <5414>(8799) thee? And she said <559>(8799), Thy signet <2368>, and thy bracelets <6616>, and thy staff <4294> that is in thine hand <3027>. And he gave <5414>(8799) it her, and came in <935>(8799) unto her, and she conceived <2029>(8799) by him.
19. And she arose <6965>(8799), and went away <3212>(8799), and laid by <5493>(8686) her vail <6809> from her, and put on <3847>(8799) the garments <899> of her widowhood <491>.
20. And Judah <3063> sent <7971>(8799) the kid <1423> <5795> by the hand <3027> of his friend <7453> the Adullamite <5726>, to receive <3947>(8800) his pledge <6162> from the woman's <802> hand <3027>: but he found her <4672>(8804) not.
21. Then he asked <7592>(8799) the men <582> of that place <4725>, saying <559>(8800), Where is the harlot <6948>, that was openly <5869> by the way side <1870>? And they said <559>(8799), There was no harlot <6948> in this <2088> place.
22. And he returned <7725>(8799) to Judah <3063>, and said <559>(8799), I cannot <3808> find <4672>(8804) her; and also the men <582> of the place <4725> said <559>(8804), that there was no harlot <6948> in this place.
23. And Judah <3063> said <559>(8799), Let her take <3947>(8799) it to her, lest we be shamed <937>: behold, I sent <7971>(8804) this kid <1423>, and thou hast not found <4672>(8804) her.
24. And it came to pass about three <7969> months <2320> after, that it was told <5046>(8714) Judah <3063>, saying <559>(8800), Tamar <8559> thy daughter in law <3618> hath played the harlot <2181>(8804); and also, behold, she is with child <2030> by whoredom <2183>. And Judah <3063> said <559>(8799), Bring her forth <3318>(8685), and let her be burnt <8313>(8735).
25. When she was brought forth <3318>(8716), she sent <7971>(8804) to her father in law <2524>, saying <559>(8800), By the man <376>, whose these are, am I with child <2030>: and she said <559>(8799), Discern <5234>(8685), I pray thee, whose are these, the signet <2858>, and bracelets <6616>, and staff <4294>.
26. And Judah <3063> acknowledged <5234>(8686) them, and said <559>(8799), She hath been more righteous <6663>(8804) than I; because that I gave <5414>(8804) her not to Shelah <7956> my son <1121>. And he knew her <3045>(8800) again <3254>(8804) no more.
27. And it came to pass in the time <6256> of her travail <3205>(8800), that, behold, twins <8380> were in her womb <990>.
28. And it came to pass, when she travailed <3205>(8800), that the one put out <5414>(8799) his hand <3027>: and the midwife <3205>(8764) took <3947>(8799) and bound <7194>(8799) upon his hand <3027> a scarlet thread <8144>, saying <559>(8800), This came out <3318>(8804) first <7223>.
29. And it came to pass, as he drew back <7725>(8688) his hand <3027>, that, behold, his brother <251> came out <3318>(8804): and she said <559>(8799), How hast thou broken forth <6555>(8804)? this breach <6556> be upon thee: therefore his name <8034> was called <7121>(8799) Pharez <6557>.
30. And afterward <310> came out <3318>(8804) his brother <251>, that had the scarlet thread <8144> upon his hand <3027>: and his name <8034> was called <7121>(8799) Zarah <2226>.
Notes that are not verse specific
Psalm 42, Psalm 43 - WHY ARE YOU SO DOWNCAST?
Take notice of the refrain. It occurs three times in these two chapters.
"Why are you so downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God
For will yet praise him
My saviour and my God."
Very often times of depression come from the circumstances around us. We are emotionally vulnerable to the events that happen in our little corner of the world, and if those events happen to be negative ones it can play on our minds, growing in intensity and filling them with negative and depressing thoughts. It often only takes two or three instances like this to seem as if the whole world is crumbling around us. It is then that we become downcast. But that is also the time that we should ask ourselves why we are downcast and then consciously put our lope in God. Consider the glories of the kingdom of God, the wonderful reality of eternal life, the joy of forgiven sins and a life in unity with God. Even in the midst of depression take some time to praise your saviour and your God and he will lift you up.
Robert Prins [Auckland - Pakuranga - (NZ)] Comment added in 2002 Reply to Robert
OUR REFUGE & OUR STRENGTH
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear." (Psalm 46:1)
When we look at newspapers or watch the TV, the news is filled with fear inducing subjects like war, terrorism, serial killers, environmental disasters and the like. Its easy to get caught up with all the negative news and feel uneasy at times and even scared. Yet ever day we have the opportunity to witness God's hand at work all around us - in nature - in the daily events of nations as it surrounds prophecy.
"God is my strong salvation: What foe have I to fear? In darkness and temptation, my light, my help is near. Though hosts encamp around me, firm in the fight I stand. What terror can confound me, with God at my right hand?"
As you grow closer to God - He will grown closer to you and open your eyes to see His presence all around you.
Peter Dulis [toronto west] Comment added in 2017 Reply to Peter
44:3 It is all too easy to have confidence in our own strength. Whilst we must strive to do things we must recognise always that it is God who has worked out our eternal salvation, not us. If it were not for what he has done for us all our efforts would be of no value.
Peter Forbes [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2019 Reply to Peter
40:15-17 Notice the contrast in David’s prayer. However, despite his request he sees himself as “poor and needy”. He is not simply asking God to judge men. He is asking God for His care because he is in need of care.
Peter Forbes [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2020 Reply to Peter
43 Some Psalms indicate in their title what the historical background of the Psalm is. There is no title attached toPsa 43. However the context gives us a clue.
David if fleeing from a group of people and his desire is that he might be brought back to God’s holy hill. We ask whether we can remember a time in David’s life when he was fleeing and was then brought back to Jerusalem by the people.
There is, it seems, only one such time – when he was fleeing from Absalom. So maybe we should read the Psalm with that historical background in mind.
Peter Forbes [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2024 Reply to Peter
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1. To the chief Musician <5329>(8764), A Psalm <4210> of David <1732>. Blessed <835> is he that considereth <7919>(8688) the poor <1800>: the LORD <3068> will deliver <4422>(8762) him in time <3117> of trouble <7451>.
2. The LORD <3068> will preserve <8104>(8799) him, and keep him alive <2421>(8762); and he shall be blessed <833>(8795) upon the earth <776>: and thou wilt not deliver <5414>(8799) him unto the will <5315> of his enemies <341>(8802).
3. The LORD <3068> will strengthen <5582>(8799) him upon the bed <6210> of languishing <1741>: thou wilt make <2015>(8804) all his bed <4904> in his sickness <2483>.
4. I said <559>(8804), LORD <3068>, be merciful <2603>(8798) unto me: heal <7495>(8798) my soul <5315>; for I have sinned <2398>(8804) against thee.
5. Mine enemies <341>(8802) speak <559>(8799) evil <7451> of me, When shall he die <4191>(8799), and his name <8034> perish <6>(8804)?
6. And if he come <935>(8804) to see <7200>(8800) me, he speaketh <1696>(8762) vanity <7723>: his heart <3820> gathereth <6908>(8799) iniquity <205> to itself; when he goeth <3318>(8799) abroad <2351>, he telleth <1696>(8762) it.
7. All that hate <8130>(8802) me whisper <3907>(8691) together <3162> against me: against me do they devise <2803>(8799) my hurt <7451>.
8. An evil <1100> disease <1697>, say they, cleaveth fast <3332>(8803) unto him: and now that he lieth <7901>(8804) he shall rise up <6965>(8800) no more <3254>(8686).
9. Yea, mine own familiar <7965> friend <376>, in whom I trusted <982>(8804), which did eat <398>(8802) of my bread <3899>, hath lifted up <1431>(8689) his heel <6119> against me.
10. But thou, O LORD <3068>, be merciful <2603>(8798) unto me, and raise me up <6965>(8685), that I may requite <7999>(8762) them.
11. By this I know <3045>(8804) that thou favourest <2654>(8804) me, because mine enemy <341>(8802) doth not triumph <7321>(8686) over me.
12. And as for me, thou upholdest <8551>(8804) me in mine integrity <8537>, and settest <5324>(8686) me before thy face <6440> for ever <5769>.
13. Blessed <1288>(8803) be the LORD <3068> God <430> of Israel <3478> from everlasting <5769>, and to everlasting <5769>. Amen <543>, and Amen <543>.
1. To the chief Musician <5329>(8764), Maschil <4905>(8688), for the sons <1121> of Korah <7141>. As the hart <354> panteth <6165>(8799) after the water <4325> brooks <650>, so panteth <6165>(8799) my soul <5315> after thee, O God <430>.
2. My soul <5315> thirsteth <6770>(8804) for God <430>, for the living <2416> God <410>: when shall I come <935>(8799) and appear <7200>(8735) before <6440> God <430>?
3. My tears <1832> have been my meat <3899> day <3119> and night <3915>, while they continually <3117> say <559>(8800) unto me, Where is thy God <430>?
4. When I remember <2142>(8799) these things, I pour out <8210>(8799) my soul <5315> in me: for I had gone <5674>(8799) with the multitude <5519>, I went <1718>(8691) with them to the house <1004> of God <430>, with the voice <6963> of joy <7440> and praise <8426>, with a multitude <1995> that kept holyday <2287>(8802).
5. Why art thou cast down <7817>(8709), O my soul <5315>? and why art thou disquieted <1993>(8799) in me? hope <3176>(8685) thou in God <430>: for I shall yet praise <3034>(8686) him for the help <3444> of his countenance <6440>.
6. O my God <430>, my soul <5315> is cast down <7817>(8709) within me: therefore will I remember <2142>(8799) thee from the land <776> of Jordan <3383>, and of the Hermonites <2769>, from the hill <2022> Mizar <4706>.
7. Deep <8415> calleth <7121>(8802) unto deep <8415> at the noise <6963> of thy waterspouts <6794>: all thy waves <4867> and thy billows <1530> are gone <5674>(8804) over me.
8. Yet the LORD <3068> will command <6680>(8762) his lovingkindness <2617> in the daytime <3119>, and in the night <3915> his song <7892> shall be with me, and my prayer <8605> unto the God <410> of my life <2416>.
9. I will say <559>(8799) unto God <410> my rock <5553>, Why hast thou forgotten <7911>(8804) me? why go <3212>(8799) I mourning <6937>(8802) because of the oppression <3906> of the enemy <341>(8802)?
10. As with a sword <7524> in my bones <6106>, mine enemies <6887>(8802) reproach <2778>(8765) me; while they say <559>(8800) daily <3117> unto me, Where is thy God <430>?
11. Why art thou cast down <7817>(8709), O my soul <5315>? and why art thou disquieted <1993>(8799) within me? hope <3176>(8685) thou in God <430>: for I shall yet praise <3034>(8686) him, who is the health <3444> of my countenance <6440>, and my God <430>.
1. Judge <8199>(8798) me, O God <430>, and plead <7378>(8798) my cause <7379> against an ungodly <3808> <2623> nation <1471>: O deliver <6403>(8762) me from the deceitful <4820> and unjust <5766> man <376>.
2. For thou art the God <430> of my strength <4581>: why dost thou cast me off <2186>(8804)? why go <1980>(8691) I mourning <6937>(8802) because of the oppression <3906> of the enemy <341>(8802)?
3. O send out <7971>(8798) thy light <216> and thy truth <571>: let them lead <5148>(8686) me; let them bring <935>(8686) me unto thy holy <6944> hill <2022>, and to thy tabernacles <4908>.
4. Then will I go <935>(8799) unto the altar <4196> of God <430>, unto God <410> my exceeding <8057> joy <1524>: yea, upon the harp <3658> will I praise <3034>(8686) thee, O God <430> my God <430>.
5. Why art thou cast down <7817>(8709), O my soul <5315>? and why art thou disquieted <1993>(8799) within me? hope <3176>(8685) in God <430>: for I shall yet praise <3034>(8686) him, who is the health <3444> of my countenance <6440>, and my God <430>.
Notes that are not verse specific
We should realise that despite the chapter division Matthew 25 follows on from chapter 24 as part of the same discourse. In fact this day which commenced in 21:20 runs right to the end of chapter 25.
Peter Forbes [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2002 Reply to Peter
Just what was this oil that the wise virgins had but were unable to give to the foolish? What is it that causes us to be able to be saved? Surely it is belief - as we see in Heb 3:18-19 it is belief that counts. This would suggest why the wise were unable to give it to the foolish, as belief - faith - cannot be transferred from one person to another.
Peter [UK] Comment added in 2004 Reply to Peter
USE IT OR LOSE IT
In the parable of the Talents, the Master gave each of the three people in the parable a sum of money, then went away on a long journey. We all have unique gifts given to us by God. Much as we might think it would be nice to have the particular skills and talents that are shown by someone else, God has given the right gifts, and the right proportions of them, to us, to use in his service. It is our job to put what we have been given to good use.
Maybe we think that we cannot do much - let alone do it as well as somebody else. But let us not let that put us off doing anything. With the right attitude we can make a difference both in the lives of others and in the service of the Lord. With patience, practice and experience our areas of service will develop and blossom, and looking back later on we will be able to see how much we have grown. The people in the parable were only given so much at the beginning of the story. But in their efforts to work their gifts, they increased what they originally had.
One man didn't use his gift, and as a result it was taken from him and he lost it. No matter how small our gifts may seem, given the right attitude and enthusiasm, they can grow into more than we ever dreamed possible. Let's use them, not lose them.
Robert Prins [Auckland - Pakuranga - (NZ)] Comment added in 2005 Reply to Robert
25 This chapter contains three parables which all are designed to focus the disciples' minds on being prepared. This is something we must be very aware of when thinking about prophecy about the last day. There is no benefit knowing when we think Jesus will return if we are unprepared for his return.
Peter Forbes [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2005 Reply to Peter
Have you ever noticed that all these parables are in fact making the same points? Also I noticed that these points all tie in to the Flood story, which is also mentioned in Matt 24. I've listed the similarities between them all in this table.
Idea presented
|
flood
|
servants
|
virgins
|
talents
|
flock
|
prepare / increase
|
(24:38 Noah opposite by implication)
|
24:45
|
25:4
|
25:16
|
25:35
|
stagnate / dissipate
|
24:38
|
24:48-49
|
25:3
|
25:18
|
25:42-43
|
sudden coming
|
24:39
|
24:50
|
25:5-6
|
25:19
|
25:31
|
punish/remorse
|
24:39
|
24:51
|
25:12
|
25:30
|
25:41
|
reward
|
|
24:47
|
25:10
|
25:21
|
25:34
|
wise
|
Noah + Family
|
wise servant
|
five wise
|
Servant with 5 or 2
|
sheep
|
foolish
|
everyone else
|
evil servant
|
five foolish
|
servant with 1 talent
|
goats
|
Rob de Jongh [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2009 Reply to Rob
Eternity -- Its Immensity
Do you realize what ETERNITY means? It means that -- if worthy -- you will be given a billion years of perfect, joyful life for every SECOND you have spent serving God. And you could make that one hundred billion years -- and still be understating it.
In the light of this, how can anyone claim to love God and not give Him the total full-time devotion and service that He asks? How can anyone be so cheap and selfish as not to give every possible effort to manifest love and gratitude in service?
No wonder the verdict is to the napkin-wrapper -- "Thou wicked and slothful servant! Cast him into outer darkness. (MATT 25:26)
- brOTHER GROWCOTT
Nick Kendall [In Isolation] Comment added in 2017 Reply to Nick
27:24 Right decisions are right decisions whether everyone agrees with the decision or not. Pilate knew that Jesus did not deserve to die. However he was afraid of what he saw as possible consequences that would flow if he allowed Jesus to go. And so what did he do? He “washed his hands” of the matter. Of course dissociating himself when he had the power to act did not absolve him of his responsibilities.
If we ever think to walk away from a problem because we are fearful of the consequences of upholding that which is right we should reflect on Pilate ad his actions. The faithful will follow thought with actions despite the consequences – Prov 15:4
Peter Forbes [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2022 Reply to Peter
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1. Then <5119> shall the kingdom <932> of heaven <3772> be likened <3666>(5701) unto ten <1176> virgins <3933>, which <3748> took <2983>(5631) their <848> lamps <2985>, and went forth <1831>(5627) to meet <529> <1519> the bridegroom <3566>.
2. And <1161> five <4002> of <1537> them <846> were <2258>(5713) wise <5429>, and <2532> five <4002> were foolish <3474>.
3. They <3748> that were foolish <3474> took <2983>(5631) their <846> <1438> lamps <2985>, and took <2983>(5627) no <3756> oil <1637> with <3326> them <1438>:
4. But <1161> the wise <5429> took <2983>(5627) oil <1637> in <1722> their <848> vessels <30> with <3326> their <848> lamps <2985>.
5. While <1161> the bridegroom <3566> tarried <5549>(5723), they all <3956> slumbered <3573>(5656) and <2532> slept <2518>(5707).
6. And <1161> at midnight <3319> <3571> there was a cry <2906> made <1096>(5754), Behold <2400>(5628), the bridegroom <3566> cometh <2064>(5736); go ye out <1831>(5737) to <1519> meet <529> him <846>.
7. Then <5119> all <3956> those <1565> virgins <3933> arose <1453>(5681), and <2532> trimmed <2885>(5656) their <848> lamps <2985>.
8. And <1161> the foolish <3474> said <2036>(5627) unto the wise <5429>, Give <1325>(5628) us <2254> of <1537> your <5216> oil <1637>; for <3754> our <2257> lamps <2985> are gone out <4570>(5743).
9. But <1161> the wise <5429> answered <611>(5662), saying <3004>(5723), Not so; lest <3379> there be <714> <0> not <3756> enough <714>(5661) for us <2254> and <2532> you <5213>: but <1161> go ye <4198>(5737) rather <3123> to them <4314> that sell <4453>(5723), and <2532> buy <59>(5657) for yourselves <1438>.
10. And <1161> while they went <565>(5740) to buy <59>(5658), the bridegroom <3566> came <2064>(5627); and <2532> they that were ready <2092> went in <1525>(5627) with <3326> him <846> to <1519> the marriage <1062>: and <2532> the door <2374> was shut <2808>(5681).
11. Afterward <1161> <5305> came <2064>(5736) also <2532> the other <3062> virgins <3933>, saying <3004>(5723), Lord <2962>, Lord <2962>, open <455>(5657) to us <2254>.
12. But <1161> he answered <611>(5679) and said <2036>(5627), Verily <281> I say <3004>(5719) unto you <5213>, I know <1492>(5758) you <5209> not <3756>.
13. Watch <1127>(5720) therefore <3767>, for <3754> ye know <1492>(5758) neither <3756> the day <2250> nor <3761> the hour <5610> wherein <1722> <3739> the Son <5207> of man <444> cometh <2064>(5736).
14. For <1063> the kingdom of heaven is as <5618> a man <444> travelling into a far country <589>(5723), who called <2564>(5656) his own <2398> servants <1401>, and <2532> delivered <3860>(5656) unto them <846> his <848> goods <5224>(5723).
15. And <2532> unto one <3303> he gave <1325>(5656) five <4002> talents <5007>, <1161> to another <3739> two <1417>, and <1161> to another <3739> one <1520>; to every man <1538> according <2596> to his several <2398> ability <1411>; and <2532> straightway <2112> took his journey <589>(5656).
16. Then <1161> he that had received <2983>(5631) the five <4002> talents <5007> went <4198>(5679) and traded <2038>(5662) with <1722> the same <846>, and <2532> made <4160>(5656) them other <243> five <4002> talents <5007>.
17. And <2532> likewise <5615> he that had received <3588> two <1417>, he also <2532> gained <2770>(5656) other <243> two <1417>.
18. But <1161> he that had received <2983>(5631) one <1520> went <565>(5631) and digged <3736>(5656) in <1722> the earth <1093>, and <2532> hid <613>(5656) his <848> lord's <2962> money <694>.
19. After <1161> <3326> a long <4183> time <5550> the lord <2962> of those <1565> servants <1401> cometh <2064>(5736), and <2532> reckoneth <4868>(5719) <3056> with <3326> them <846>.
20. And so <2532> he that had received <2983>(5631) five <4002> talents <5007> came <4334>(5631) and brought <4374>(5656) other <243> five <4002> talents <5007>, saying <3004>(5723), Lord <2962>, thou deliveredst <3860>(5656) unto me <3427> five <4002> talents <5007>: behold <2396>, I have gained <2770>(5656) beside <1909> them <846> five <4002> talents <5007> more <243>.
21. <1161> His <846> lord <2962> said <5346>(5713) unto him <846>, Well done <2095>, thou good <18> and <2532> faithful <4103> servant <1401>: thou hast been <2258>(5713) faithful <4103> over <1909> a few things <3641>, I will make <2525> <0> thee <4571> ruler <2525>(5692) over <1909> many things <4183>: enter thou <1525>(5628) into <1519> the joy <5479> of thy <4675> lord <2962>.
22. <1161> He also <2532> that had received <2983>(5631) two <1417> talents <5007> came <4334>(5631) and said <2036>(5627), Lord <2962>, thou deliveredst <3860>(5656) unto me <3427> two <1417> talents <5007>: behold <2396>, I have gained <2770>(5656) two <1417> other <243> talents <5007> beside <1909> them <846>.
23. His <846> lord <2962> said <5346>(5713) unto him <846>, Well done <2095>, good <18> and <2532> faithful <4103> servant <1401>; thou hast been <2258>(5713) faithful <4103> over <1909> a few things <3641>, I will make <2525> <0> thee <4571> ruler <2525>(5692) over <1909> many things <4183>: enter thou <1525>(5628) into <1519> the joy <5479> of thy <4675> lord <2962>.
24. Then <1161> <2532> he which had received <2983>(5761) the one <1520> talent <5007> came <4334>(5631) and said <2036>(5627), Lord <2962>, I knew <1097>(5627) thee <4571> that <3754> thou art <1488>(5748) an hard <4642> man <444>, reaping <2325>(5723) where <3699> thou hast <4687> <0> not <3756> sown <4687>(5656), and <2532> gathering <4863>(5723) where <3606> thou hast <1287> <0> not <3756> strawed <1287>(5656):
25. And <2532> I was afraid <5399>(5679), and went <565>(5631) and hid <2928>(5656) thy <4675> talent <5007> in <1722> the earth <1093>: lo <2396>, there thou hast <2192>(5719) that is thine <4674>.
26. <1161> His <846> lord <2962> answered <611>(5679) and said <2036>(5627) unto him <846>, Thou wicked <4190> and <2532> slothful <3636> servant <1401>, thou knewest <1492>(5715) that <3754> I reap <2325>(5719) where <3699> I sowed <4687>(5656) not <3756>, and <2532> gather <4863>(5719) where <3606> I have <1287> <0> not <3756> strawed <1287>(5656):
27. Thou <4571> oughtest <1163>(5713) therefore <3767> to have put <906>(5629) my <3450> money <694> to the exchangers <5133>, and <2532> then at my coming <2064>(5631) I <1473> should <302> have received <2865>(5668) mine own <1699> with <4862> usury <5110>.
28. Take <142>(5657) therefore <3767> the talent <5007> from <575> him <846>, and <2532> give <1325>(5628) it unto him which hath <2192>(5723) ten <1176> talents <5007>.
29. For <1063> unto every one <3956> that hath <2192>(5723) shall be given <1325>(5701), and <2532> he shall have abundance <4052>(5701): but <1161> from <575> him <846> that hath <2192>(5723) not <3361> shall be taken away <142>(5701) even <2532> that which <3739> he hath <2192>(5719).
30. And <2532> cast ye <1544>(5720) the unprofitable <888> servant <1401> into <1519> outer <1857> darkness <4655>: there <1563> shall be <2071>(5704) weeping <2805> and <2532> gnashing <1030> of teeth <3599>.
31. When <1161> <3752> the Son <5207> of man <444> shall come <2064>(5632) in <1722> his <848> glory <1391>, and <2532> all <3956> the holy <40> angels <32> with <3326> him <846>, then <5119> shall he sit <2523>(5692) upon <1909> the throne <2362> of his <848> glory <1391>:
32. And <2532> before <1715> him <846> shall be gathered <4863>(5701) all <3956> nations <1484>: and <2532> he shall separate <873>(5692) them <846> one <240> <0> from <575> another <240>, as <5618> a shepherd <4166> divideth <873>(5719) his sheep <4263> from <575> the goats <2056>:
33. And <2532> he shall set <2476>(5692) <3303> the sheep <4263> on <1537> his <848> right hand <1188>, but <1161> the goats <2055> on <1537> the left <2176>.
34. Then <5119> shall the King <935> say <2046>(5692) unto them on <1537> his <848> right hand <1188>, Come <1205>(5773), ye blessed <2127>(5772) of my <3450> Father <3962>, inherit <2816>(5657) the kingdom <932> prepared <2090>(5772) for you <5213> from <575> the foundation <2602> of the world <2889>:
35. For <1063> I was an hungred <3983>(5656), and <2532> ye gave <1325>(5656) me <3427> meat <5315>(5629): I was thirsty <1372>(5656), and <2532> ye gave <4222> <0> me <3165> drink <4222>(5656): I was <2252>(5713) a stranger <3581>, and <2532> ye took <4863> <0> me <3165> in <4863>(5627):
36. Naked <1131>, and <2532> ye clothed <4016>(5627) me <3165>: I was sick <770>(5656), and <2532> ye visited <1980>(5662) me <3165>: I was <2252>(5713) in <1722> prison <5438>, and <2532> ye came <2064>(5627) unto <4314> me <3165>.
37. Then <5119> shall the righteous <1342> answer <611>(5700) him <846>, saying <3004>(5723), Lord <2962>, when <4219> saw we <1492>(5627) thee <4571> an hungred <3983>(5723), and <2532> fed <5142>(5656) thee? or <2228> thirsty <1372>(5723), and <2532> gave thee drink <4222>(5656)?
38. <1161> When <4219> saw we <1492>(5627) thee <4571> a stranger <3581>, and <2532> took thee in <4863>(5627)? or <2228> naked <1131>, and <2532> clothed <4016>(5627) thee?
39. <1161> Or when <4219> saw we <1492>(5627) thee <4571> sick <772>, or <2228> in <1722> prison <5438>, and <2532> came <2064>(5627) unto <4314> thee <4571>?
40. And <2532> the King <935> shall answer <611>(5679) and say <2046>(5692) unto them <846>, Verily <281> I say <3004>(5719) unto you <5213>, Inasmuch <1909> as <3745> ye have done <4160>(5656) it unto one <1520> of the least <1646> of these <5130> my <3450> brethren <80>, ye have done <4160>(5656) it unto me <1698>.
41. Then <5119> shall he say <2046>(5692) also <2532> unto them on <1537> the left hand <2176>, Depart <4198>(5737) from <575> me <1700>, ye cursed <2672>(5772), into <1519> everlasting <166> fire <4442>, prepared <2090>(5772) for the devil <1228> and <2532> his <846> angels <32>:
42. For <1063> I was an hungred <3983>(5656), and <2532> ye gave <1325>(5656) me <3427> no <3756> meat <5315>(5629): I was thirsty <1372>(5656), and <2532> ye gave <4222> <0> me <3165> no <3756> drink <4222>(5656):
43. I was <2252>(5713) a stranger <3581>, and <2532> ye took <4863> <0> me <3165> not <3756> in <4863>(5627): naked <1131>, and <2532> ye clothed <4016>(5627) me <3165> not <3756>: sick <772>, and <2532> in <1722> prison <5438>, and <2532> ye visited <1980>(5662) me <3165> not <3756>.
44. Then <5119> shall they <611> <0> also <2532> answer <611>(5700) him <846>, saying <3004>(5723), Lord <2962>, when <4219> saw we <1492>(5627) thee <4571> an hungred <3983>(5723), or <2228> athirst <1372>(5723), or <2228> a stranger <3581>, or <2228> naked <1131>, or <2228> sick <772>, or <2228> in <1722> prison <5438>, and <2532> did <1247> <0> not <3756> minister <1247>(5656) unto thee <4671>?
45. Then <5119> shall he answer <611>(5700) them <846>, saying <3004>(5723), Verily <281> I say <3004>(5719) unto you <5213>, Inasmuch <1909> as <3745> ye did <4160>(5656) it not <3756> to one <1520> of the least <1646> of these <5130>, ye did <4160>(5656) it not <3761> to me <1698>.
46. And <2532> these <3778> shall go away <565>(5695) into <1519> everlasting <166> punishment <2851>: but <1161> the righteous <1342> into <1519> life <2222> eternal <166>.