Lance Raab Photography (Hello Ireland!)
Facilitator: Stephen Weller
981 words, 5 minutes read time
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God Establishes His Kingdom, Christ Comforts His Disciples, Delight in God’s Word, and the Blessing of Correction
Old Testament Reading
2 Samuel 4:1–6:23 — David Established as King and the Ark Brought to Jerusalem
Overview:
After the death of Abner, Ish-bosheth’s kingdom weakened, and two men murdered him hoping to gain favor with David. Instead, David judged them for their wickedness. All the tribes of Israel then came to Hebron and anointed David king over the entire nation. David captured Jerusalem and established it as his capital, growing stronger as the Lord was with him. The Philistines were defeated as David sought God’s guidance. David later attempted to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem, but Uzzah died after touching the ark improperly, revealing the holiness of God. After learning to honor God’s commands correctly, David brought the ark into Jerusalem with rejoicing and worship, though Michal despised David’s public celebration.
Theological Themes:
• God’s sovereignty in establishing His chosen king
• The holiness of God in worship
• Joyful worship before the Lord
Key Verse:
2 Samuel 5:10 – “And David became greater and greater, for the LORD, the God of hosts, was with him.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- Why did David punish the men who killed Ish-bosheth?
Answer:
David would not establish his kingdom through wickedness or murder. He trusted God to fulfill His promises righteously rather than rewarding sinful actions done in his favor. - What does Uzzah’s death teach about God?
Answer:
It reveals God’s holiness and the seriousness of approaching Him according to His commands. Worship cannot be shaped merely by human sincerity; it must honor God’s revealed standards. - Why did David dance before the ark with such joy?
Answer:
David rejoiced because the presence of God was being brought into Jerusalem. His worship reflected humility, gratitude, and delight in the Lord above concern for personal dignity.
New Testament Reading
John 13:31–14:14 — Jesus Comforts His Disciples and Declares the Way to the Father
Overview:
After Judas departed to betray Him, Jesus spoke of His coming glorification through the cross and gave His disciples a new commandment: to love one another as He loved them. Jesus foretold Peter’s denial but comforted the disciples by assuring them that He was preparing a place for them in His Father’s house. He declared Himself to be the way, the truth, and the life, teaching that no one comes to the Father except through Him. Jesus also promised that those who believe in Him would continue His works through prayer and faith in His name.
Theological Themes:
• Christ as the only way to the Father
• The love believers are called to demonstrate
• Comfort and assurance in Christ
Key Verse:
John 14:6 – “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- What is the “new commandment” Jesus gave His disciples?
Answer:
Jesus commanded His followers to love one another as He loved them. This sacrificial and Christ-centered love would identify them as His disciples before the world. - Why did Jesus tell the disciples not to let their hearts be troubled?
Answer:
Though His death was near, Jesus assured them that He was preparing an eternal place for them and that their future with Him was secure. - What does Jesus mean when He says He is “the way, the truth, and the life”?
Answer:
Jesus declared that salvation and access to God are found exclusively through Him. He alone reveals the Father fully and provides eternal life through His death and resurrection.
Psalms Reading
Psalm 119:17–32 — Strength and Freedom Through God’s Word
Overview:
The psalmist asks God for understanding, strength, and faithfulness while expressing deep dependence on His Word. Though surrounded by reproach and opposition, he delights in God’s commandments and meditates on His statutes continually. God’s testimonies guide his path, revive his soul, and give him freedom to walk in righteousness. The passage reveals a heart devoted to obeying and trusting the Lord completely.
Theological Themes:
• Dependence on God’s Word for guidance
• Spiritual renewal through Scripture
• Delight in obedience to God
Key Verse:
Psalm 119:32 – “I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart!”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- Why does the psalmist ask God for understanding?
Answer:
True spiritual understanding comes from God. The psalmist recognizes that obedience and wisdom require divine help and illumination. - How does God’s Word strengthen believers?
Answer:
Scripture gives direction, encouragement, correction, and hope during trials. It revives the soul and keeps believers grounded in truth. - What does it mean to “run in the way” of God’s commandments?
Answer:
It describes eager and joyful obedience. A heart transformed by God desires to follow His commands wholeheartedly rather than reluctantly.
Proverbs Reading
Proverbs 15:31–32 — Listening to Correction
Overview:
These proverbs emphasize the wisdom of receiving instruction and correction. Those who listen to life-giving reproof gain understanding and dwell among the wise, while those who reject discipline harm themselves. Accepting correction leads to growth, humility, and greater wisdom, revealing a teachable heart before God.
Theological Themes:
• The value of godly correction
• Wisdom through humility
• Growth through discipline
Key Verse:
Proverbs 15:32 – “Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- Why is correction important for spiritual growth?
Answer:
Correction exposes wrong attitudes and actions, helping believers grow in wisdom and righteousness. God uses discipline to shape His people into maturity. - What does it mean to despise oneself by rejecting instruction?
Answer:
Rejecting wisdom harms one’s own life and future. Refusing correction prevents growth and often leads to destructive choices. - How can believers develop a teachable spirit?
Answer:
By humbly receiving God’s Word, listening to wise counsel, and being willing to admit mistakes and change when corrected.
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