Proverbs 1-2
Proverbs belongs to a class of literature in the bible referred to as Wisdom Literature, it is usually grouped with Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon in this class. Historically this literature was ascribed to Solomon whose legacy was wisdom, but it is most likely that these sayings were written and edited by officials and counselors of the courts and temple during the Divided Monarchy and then redacted during the post-exilic or Persian period.
From the title of it being part of Wisdom Literature, Proverbs speaks of wisdom and knowledge and contrasts them with folly. In many regards wisdom is a practical knowledge that leads one to a moral life but special wisdom is also seen in one's fear of God. Of interest is that wisdom is identified with the female side of the universe. (Which probably does not surprise women.) This is significant in that a highly patriarchal society, wisdom was female.
The scribes (I use this term not as a religious one, but one to just describe the writers of Proverbs) begin the book in Proverbs 1 by pointing to two groups they seek to address: the young and the simple. It is assumed that the young are those of upper classes who have time to reflect on such things as wisdom, so we are not talking about young in general but young wealthy or affluent youth who can be seen as the future leadership of Israel. The second group, the simple, are those who can hear the words of wisdom and learn from them. Obviously this would include the masses who would not be "considered" to study wisdom directly but can learn from listening to others. These two groups are called to discipline themselves to find wisdom.
Next the scribes urge the youth to stay away from those who might seek to disrupt society. Instead they are encouraged to stick to a more conservative approach to life. In particular they are to remove themselves from the audience of those who seek to used violence and like methods to achieve power and wealth.
We are next to Woman Wisdom, who speaks of seeking out the simple in the squares of the public, desiring the simple to find her. Yet society scoffs at her and seeks other things. Even though she gestures and seeks to make herself known, the people choose other ways, so when calamity strikes and they finally seek wisdom, she will not respond. Yet, they should know to fear God and to listen to wisdom. Those who do so will find themselves secure.
The speaker in Proverbs 2 seems to a teacher or instructor who seeks to demonstrate the need for Wisdom and how it comes first and foremost from God. The youth are encouraged to find a means to obtain such wisdom. The benefits of wisdom are then listed so the youth can see what they might achieve. Wisdom is shown to be not just knowledge, but a moral life.
Philippians 4
As Paul comes to his final exhortation, he again speaks of the need for the community to be one, and then singles out two women that seem to be in dispute, Euodia and Syntyche, although the nature of their dispute is not known. Paul has a relationship with them and seeks the entire community to help support them and bring a resolution to any differences. This is quite a statement of community.
Paul encourages the Philippians to not worry but to just be thankful to God; to remain to be honorable and zealous for the good that is in Christ. Finally to do the things they have have learned about Christ, things that Paul and others served as examples.
Finally, Paul thanks the entire community for the gifts they have bestowed upon him, not just the latest gift to come from Epaphroditus, but their sheer love and care for him. This relationship demonstrates the power of community for as Paul ministers to others and to the Philippians, the Philippians support and nurture him. This is the model of the church, that too often we fail to encourage.
Backlogged Posts
2 Chronicles 18-20
The story of Jehoshaphat and Ahab is very interesting for it is one of the few times that the chronicler writes a lengthly report about a northern king. The story in 2 Chronicles 18 largely comes from 1 Kings 22 with the story of Micaiah providing a negative opinion about a joined attack against the Arameans. However, in this version it would seem that Jehoshaphat has gone to Ahab as part of a marriage alliance between their children and Ahab entices him to join in an attack. Again we note the chronicler's attempts to maintain the righteousness of the Davidic line, any wrongdoing by a Judean king is because of Israel.
As we know in Kings, the battle does not go well, just as Micaiah had predicted. Ahab dies from wounds received in the battle. Jehoshaphat escapes back to the safety of Jerusalem. Upon his return Jehoshaphat is confronted by a prophet who criticizes his attempt to create an alliance with the wicked Ahab. Which seems to spur Jehoshaphat on to make reforms in 2 Chronicles 19.
At the heart of his reforms, Jehoshaphat attempts to create a just nation by appointing judges who will judge based upon God's will. He also creates a central court in Jerusalem made up of certain Levites and priests who will render decisions on cases with the fear of the Lord foremost in their minds.
As the reforms take hold, a large host comes against Judah. The host comprises the nations of Ammon, Edom and Moabites, three nations that the Lord did not let Israel fight against when they entered into the Promised Land. 2 Chronicles 20 speaks of Jehoshaphat's faith as he turns to the Lord for help. He recalls Solomon's dedication of the temple where Solomon asks God to respond to such national tragedies. He also reminds God that these nations had received the favor of the Lord in the past but now they march on the Zion.
God hears the prayer and responds. He tells Judah that they should take the field but they will not fight, this is the Lord's fight. In some way, God sows discord and confusion in the camp of the enemies, they basically kill each other and leave behind a huge booty to be plundered. Clearly God has shown favor to Judah, and Judah responds with singing and praising.
Unfortunately, the story of Jehoshaphat does not end on a good note, as he does create an alliance with the northern king Ahaziah. Their plan is thwarted by God and then the chronicles notes his death.
Ephesians 3
Paul again references his imprisonment, but we are still not sure which imprisonment he is speaking. However, it seems clear that the reason for his imprisonment is because of his ministry to the Gentiles. Perhaps segments of the community have conspired against him for his work of showing God's love or even the Jewish community has taken actions to show how Paul's message is disruptive to the Pax Romana. Either way, Paul sees this imprisonment as part of God's divine plan.
For Paul has been called to proclaim those things previously hidden about God to the Gentiles, so that they may know the power and glory of God. He does not see himself as some righteous person, just a messenger of a wonderful message. He encourages the Gentiles who recieve this letter to join him in his ministry to make this knowledge aware on the earth and in heaven.
Paul prays for the community that they might be strengthened in their own ministry. This strength is found in understanding of Christ, that Christ may dwell in their hearts and that they find the love that surpasses all understanding.
No comments:
Post a Comment