The Ark of the Covenant | W8 | November 3, 2021 | Strawbridge Community Church | New Windsor, MD

Notes: https://strawbridgeumc.org/wp-content... https://strawbridgeumc.org/wp-content... Greetings God’s representation in all the earth — In last week’s study in the book of 1 Samuel, we saw the passing of the leadership mantle from Eli to Samuel (both of whom served as priest, judge and prophet) and we witnessed the glory of God dissipating over the Ark of the Covenant because of the desecration of the sacrament and offering by the servant priests, Hophni and Phineas. The resulting outcome was the Ark of the Covenant was captured (by a non-covenant people) and Hophni and Phineas perished at the hand of God. The Ark in enemy hands did not work out for those who captured it, as their cities were plagued with diseased rats and the people (mostly men) suffered tumors and death. Ultimately, they returned God’s Ark to the rightful owners and returned it with an offering. Whenever the enemy takes advantage of us, God demands our freedom and it must come with reward and increase granted us [note the similarities in how Israel left Egypt]. The Ark of God was in Shiloh and after capture and return, it remained for more than 20 years at Kiriath-Jearim in the custody of the priest, Eleazer. The nation Israel have moved from judges as leaders and now have kings. Saul the Benjaminite was the first king (chosen by the people) and David is the second (hand-picked by Yahweh). The issue of the Ark is revisited under David’s reign. This week we look at scriptures in 2 Samuel 5, 6 and 7, and 1 Chronicles 13-17, that divulge more Ark revelation. Read the following excerpts from scripture and answer the questions for discussion: EXERCISE for Preparation– 1. Read 2 Samuel 5:1-12 a. In verses 4-5, David’s reign is defined by years. Do these numbers make you think of anything else in our faith? b. Note the names of the places David conquers. What different names are given to the area occupied by Jebusites? c. In verses 10-12, what are we told is a hallmark of King David? 2. Read 2 Samuel 6:1-23 and 7:1-17 a. What huge mistake does King David make in moving the Ark of the Covenant? What event shows God’s anger? b. What reason is given for the death of Uzzah? Do you feel this was fair? Can you understand how poor or errant leadership can set one up for failure? c. After the event of God’s anger, where does King David send the Ark? What happens there? d. As the Ark was heading to the capital city, what is David’s wife, Michal’s disposition? Why do you suppose this is so? e. In chapter 7, what does King David purpose to do with the Ark? What does the prophet Nathan tell the king? f. Why do you suppose some commentators believe verses 11b-16 speak of Jesus Christ? 3. Read 1 Chronicles chapters 13, 15:1-15, 25-29; 16:1-6 and 17:1-15 a. What major differences do you find in this set of scriptures? b. [* Based on your JEPD understanding, which tradition is the 2 Samuel text versus the 1 Chronicles text?] c. [* How do the verses in 17:10b-14 (again, who commentators say refer to Christ) read different?] One Church, One People, One Ministry and Our Eyes Are Watching God! #strawbridgecommunitychurch #strawbridgecc #strawbridgechurch #church #faith