Individuals seeking to understand some of the finer details of these topics will be pleased with the condensed nature of the book and the particularly excellent sections of exegesis as they are presented. For those seeking an introduction into Pauline studies this book is a must have.
In the light of modern interpretation of these events, the emphasis on God’s judgment, redemption and plan are a breeze of fresh air that can be willfully consumed by those willing to read the Bible anew again. Given the brevity of Noah: The True Story individuals of all persuasion should be able to enjoy a Milton-like (minus the poetry) experience of the story of Noah.
This psalm presents an interesting question: is this representative of a covenant individual or the covenant messiah? This individual is seemingly free from any sin. If read quite literally could this be applied to anyone but the messiah?
"as a sign on your hand"
The night I heard those words from her stands in sharp definition, every activity etched in mental stone. I worked so hard to keep busy my hands when a string of absorbing brain teasers was what I needed. Be still my thoughts - Lord Jesus take them captive.
Though the symbolism of the “smoking firepot” can be linked to the darkness and smoke that Moses encountered on Mount Sinai (Exo 19:18), it is more likely that it along with the “blazing torch” are revisited in the pillar of cloud and fire (Exo 13:21).
Sin permeates everyone’s body and mind since all, Jews and Gentiles, have sinned (Rom 3:23). And all are children of wrath. In this way the Jews were just like the “rest of mankind.”
After establishing how the Lord is the covenant fulfillment for the psalmist, this psalm turns briefly to the assurances of the person seeking after God. It is the one receiving counsel and instruction (v. 7) from God that is not shaken (v. 8). Our “heart” and “flesh” can rejoice for our God is deliverer of both soul and body.
