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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Bible Period by Period, by Josiah Blake
+Tidwell
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: The Bible Period by Period
+       A Manual for the Study of the Bible by Periods
+
+
+Author: Josiah Blake Tidwell
+
+Release Date: May 5, 2005  [eBook #15771]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII)
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BIBLE PERIOD BY PERIOD***
+
+
+E-text prepared by Fredric B. Lozo
+
+
+
+THE BIBLE PERIOD BY PERIOD
+
+A Manual for the Study of the Bible by Periods
+
+by
+
+JOSIAH BLAKE TIDWELL
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTORY NOTE:
+
+Josiah Blake Tidwell states "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself
+(Lev. 19:18). It is the final word in all right relations to others."
+This statement in _The Bible Period by Period_, regarding the Laws of
+Moses, and echoed in the words of Jesus is the guiding principle by
+which Tidwell seems to have lived.
+
+J. B. Tidwell was born in Alabama in 1870 to a modest family of
+farmers. He was educated at Alabama's Howard College (now Samford
+University), earned a Master's Degree from Baylor University in 1903,
+and did post-graduate studies through a correspondence program of the
+University of Chicago. He also received several honorary degrees.
+Tidwell served as the Chairman of the Bible Department at Baylor
+University from 1910 until the time of his passing in 1946. Among his
+writings are _The Bible, Book by Book_ (1914), _The Bible, Period by
+Period_ (1916), _Genesis: A Study of the Plan of Redemption_ (1924),
+and _John and His Five Books_ (1937).
+
+This book, _The Bible Period by Period_ (1916) is a companion to
+Tidwell's _The Bible Book by Book_ (1914). Both are college level
+introductory courses in Christian studies. They are each organized in
+outline form with questions at the end of each chapter to guide the
+student in acquiring a comprehensive mastery of the material.
+
+In preparing "The Bible Period by Period" in e-book format, the
+outline styles were edited for sake of e-text consistency and
+proofreading. Certain geographical place names were edited for
+consistent spelling. The rest of the text remains faithful to the
+original. For any errors in transcription, I sincerely apologize as
+the words of the author could hardly be improved upon.
+
+Fredric Lozo
+Mathis, Texas
+April 2005
+
+
+
+* * * * *
+
+
+
+THE BIBLE PERIOD BY PERIOD
+
+A Manual for the Study of the Bible by Periods
+
+by
+
+JOSIAH BLAKE TIDWELL
+Professor of Biblical Literature
+
+Baylor University Press
+Waco, Texas
+
+1916
+
+
+
+
+Author's Preface.
+
+The author believes that the Bible is the word of God and that it is
+the inspired revelation of God's will to men and of the plan which he
+has provided for their redemption. He believes that it contains
+instructions which alone furnish the basis of wise and worthy conduct
+both for individuals and for nations. He, therefore, believes that all
+men should avail themselves of every possible opportunity to acquaint
+themselves with its teachings and that all Christians should be
+faithful and even aggressive in their efforts to teach its truths.
+
+Moreover, several years of teaching the Bible to a multitude of
+students has convinced the writer that what is needed most is a study
+of the Bible itself rather than things about it. Having this in mind
+this little volume presents only a small amount of introductory
+discussion. It offers instead a large number of topics for study and
+discussion. By following the suggestions for study which they offer
+the student may gain a working knowledge of the contents of Biblical
+history.
+
+It is suggested that these outlines will furnish a basis of work for
+college and academy Bible classes. It is also hoped that it may be
+adopted for study in many Sunday School classes. If it shall be
+studied in the Sunday Schools according to instructions which the
+author will furnish, it will be granted college entrance credit in
+Baylor University. Women's societies will find it well suited to their
+Bible study work.
+
+The aim has been to make a companion book to the author's "The Bible
+Book by Book." The twenty one periods selected are only one of the
+many ways in which Bible history may be divided and lays no claim to
+superiority. If this volume shall prove as helpful as the sale of its
+companion book would indicate that it has been, the work incident to
+its preparation will be amply repaid.
+
+J. B. Tidwell.
+
+Waco, Texas. 1916.
+
+
+
+* * * * *
+
+
+
+TABLE OF CONTENTS.
+
+Chapter I.
+
+From the Creation to the Fall.
+
+Problems solved. Creation of man. Man's hope and occupation. The
+temptation. The fall and punishment. The hope offered. Teachings of
+the story. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter II.
+
+From the Fall to the Flood.
+
+Cain and Abel. Cain and Seth, two races. The great wickedness. Noah
+God's chosen man. The Ark. The flood. The sacrifice and rainbow
+covenant. Confirmation of tradition and geology. Teachings of the
+period. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter III.
+
+From the Flood to Abraham.
+
+Noah's shame and prophecy. The Tower of Babel. The location of this
+tower. Specific purpose of the tower. Traditions of such a tower. The
+civilization of the ancient world. Two great empires of antiquity.
+Language and literature. Motive of their civilization. Lessons of the
+period. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter IV.
+
+From Abraham to Egypt.
+
+Events of the period. Purpose of the narrative. Conditions of the
+times. Confirmations of Biblical records. Experiences of Abraham. The
+character of Abraham. The character and career of Isaac. Stories about
+Jacob. Stories about Joseph. Death of Jacob and Joseph. Social and
+religious conditions of the times. The book of Job. Lessons of the
+period. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter V.
+
+From Egypt to Sinai.
+
+Israel in Egypt. Moses the deliverer. The great deliverance. Crossing
+the Red Sea. Journey to Sinai. Lessons of the period. Topics.
+
+Chapter VI.
+
+From Sinai to Kadesh.
+
+Mount Sinai. The Sinaitic covenant. Purpose of the Mosaic Law. Several
+parts of the law. Journey to Kadesh-Barnea.    Twelve spies. Period
+lessons. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter VII.
+
+From Kadesh to the Death of Moses.
+
+The pathos of the forty years. Events of the forty years' wandering.
+Final scenes at Kadesh. From Kadesh to Jordan.   Prophecies of Balaam.
+Last acts of Moses. Last scene on Moab. Significance of the work of
+Moses. Lessons of the period. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter VIII.
+
+Joshua's Conquest.
+
+The facts of history recorded. The story in three parts.    The land
+of Canaan. Crossing Jordan and fall of Jericho.   The complete
+conquest of Canaan. Cruelty to the Canaanites. Character and work of
+Joshua. Period lessons.   Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter IX.
+
+The Judges.
+
+Characteristics of tie times. The Judges. Ruth the Moabite. Other
+nations. Outline of the narrative. Ethical and religious standards.
+Period lessons. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter X.
+
+The Reign of Saul.
+
+Demand for a king. The principle of the kingdom. Saul, the first king.
+Saul's great achievements. Saul's decline.  Period lessons. Topics for
+discussion.
+
+Chapter XI.
+
+The Reign of David.
+
+His reign over Judah. Reign over all Israel. His great sin and its
+bitter consequences. David's inspiring career. His last days. Psalms.
+Period lessons. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter XII.
+
+Solomon's Reign.
+
+Riddle of Solomon's character. His policies. Solomon's building
+enterprises. Solomon's writings. Nations surrounding Israel. Evidences
+of national decay. Period lessons. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter XIII.
+
+The Divided Kingdom.
+
+The division of the kingdom. Comparison of the two kingdoms. Kings of
+the Northern kingdom. Kings of Judah. Important events in the history
+of Israel. Principal events in the history of Judah. Relation between
+the two kingdoms. Messages of the prophets of this period. Period
+lessons. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter XIV.
+
+The Kingdom of Judah.
+
+The kings of the period.  Principal events of the period.    Prophets
+of the period and their messages. Teachings of the period. False
+prophets. Great religious revivals of this period. Wealth and luxury.
+Contemporary nations. Period lessons. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter XV.
+
+The Captivity of Judah.
+
+The ten tribes lost. Judah led into  captivity. The period of the
+captivity. The fugitives in Egypt. Exiles in Babylon. The prophets of
+the exile. Benefits of the captivity. Lessons of the period. Topics
+for discussion.
+
+Chapter XVI.
+
+The Restoration.
+
+Scripture analysis. Predictions of the return. Rise of the Persian
+Power. The Decree of Cyrus. Three Expeditions to Jerusalem. Prophecy
+of Haggai and Zechariah. Prophecy of Malachi. Story of Esther.
+Synagogues and Synagogue worship. Significance of the period. Period
+lessons. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter XVII.
+
+From Malachi to the Birth of Christ.
+
+The close of Old Testament History. Persian period. Under the rule of
+Greek kings. Period of independence. The Roman period. Entire period.
+End of the Period. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter XVIII.
+
+From the birth to the Ascension of Jesus.
+
+The story of the period. The childhood and youth of Jesus.   The
+beginnings of Christ's Ministry. Early Judean ministry. Galilean
+Ministry. Perean Ministry. Final Ministry in Jerusalem. The forty
+days. Teaching of the period. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter XIX.
+
+From the Ascension to the Church at Antioch.
+
+The Book of Acts. Principal events of the period. Organization and
+control of the early church. Persecutions of the church. Growth and
+influence. Extension of the Gospel to the Gentiles. Teachings of the
+period. Topics for discussion.
+
+
+Chapter XX.
+
+From Antioch to the Destruction of Jerusalem.
+
+The changed situation. The divine call. Time and extent of Paul's
+journeys. First missionary journey. Second missionary journey. Third
+missionary journey. At  Jerusalem. At  Caesarea. Paul at Rome.
+Epistles of this period. Lessons of the period. Topics for discussion.
+
+Chapter XXI.
+
+From the Destruction of the Temple to the  Death of the Apostle
+John..The period of history. Destruction of Jerusalem. From A. D. 70
+to A.D. 100. Literature of the period. Death of John and end of
+scripture history. Period lessons. Topics for discussion.
+
+
+* * * * *
+
+
+Introduction
+
+(Pastor Geo. W. Truett.)
+
+In offering to the public this little book "The Bible Period By
+Period," Dr. Tidwell is making another contribution to the cause of
+Bible study. He has already published "Some Introductory Bible
+Studies", "An Outline for the Study of the Life of Christ", and "The
+Bible Book By Book."
+
+All of these have been well received. The last named formed a part of
+a definite plan for the study of the sacred Scripture which is carried
+forward in this volume.
+
+The fact that the first edition of "The Bible Book By Book" has
+practically all been sold before the end of the second year since its
+publication, is sufficient proof of its popularity and of its value to
+Bible students. It has been adopted for study in a number of colleges
+and academies and is in use as a text book in a number of women's
+societies and Sunday School classes.
+
+The author, as teacher of Bible in Baylor University, has tried out
+the studies he offers and has had a splendid opportunity to select
+what has proven valuable. He teaches a larger number of young
+preachers than any similar instructor in the whole of the Southland,
+and also many Sunday School Teachers and other Christian workers. He
+can, therefore, offer the best.
+
+Dr. Tidwell accepts, without question, the inspiration and
+authoritativeness of the Bible as the Word of God. He believes in
+directing the student in the study of the Bible itself rather than
+having him study about it. His hooks are, therefore, more in the
+nature of outlines or guides than of discussions. He gives the pupil a
+clue to the study and says only enough to create a zest for truth such
+as will lead to a thorough investigation of the subject in hand.
+
+In this volume, as its title would indicate, the whole Bible has been
+divided into periods and main facts and characteristics of each is
+studied. There are twenty-one periods forming the basis for as many
+chapters.
+
+The plan is to discuss in the beginning of each chapter the most
+striking events of the period, Giving such outlines of the contents
+and principal events of the period as will make the whole period stand
+out so that the student may comprehend it at a glance. This is very
+brief but most comprehensive.
+
+In the next place the lessons and teachings of the period are
+suggested. The author sets forth in tabular form the great teaching
+found in the Scripture events, both in their value to the Hebrews and
+in their permanent value to all people and for all times.
+
+In the case of the poetical and prophetic books, suggestions for their
+study are given in the chapter on the period in which each book and
+the facts it records occurred. At the close of each chapter there is
+given a large number of topics for study and discussion. For the most
+part these topics require the searching of the Scripture itself and,
+if properly followed, will give the student a splendid knowledge of
+the contents of the Scripture of the period.
+
+This book when completed in our Sunday Schools will, if done under the
+direction of the author, be given credit in Baylor University as
+college entrance. Our Sunday School workers would do well to organize
+classes of young men and women in the study of this book. In this way
+they would not only help these young people in Bible study but would
+tie them all to our great school at Baylor and make it possible for
+them to get credit for it when they attend provided they need it to
+get into the college. There ought to be hundreds of such classes in
+Texas.
+
+Every Sunday School teacher and woman worker would do himself or
+herself a valuable service by securing and studying a copy of this new
+book. And it is also to be hoped that many of our women's societies
+will adopt it for their Bible study.
+
+Let our pastors buy this book for themselves and bring it to the
+attention of their people. For the people of today, as of old, are
+perishing from a lack of Bible knowledge. The one unceasing effort
+that should be constantly and whole heartedly put forth by every
+Christian leader in every realm is to get the people to read and to
+know the Holy Scripture. Dr. Tidwell's book will greatly help in such
+effort.
+
+First Baptist Church, Dallas, Texas.
+
+
+
+* * * * *
+
+
+
+Chapter I.
+
+From The Creation to The Fall.
+
+Gen. Chs. 1-3
+
+Problems Solved. This simple narrative solves some of the great
+problems about which philosophers have speculated and before which
+scientists have stood baffled. Every child of the human race has
+asked, "What is the origin of the material world, what is the origin
+of life, and what is the origin of sin?" In general the philosophers
+held (and most of what science says concerning these matters is not
+science but speculative philosophy) that matter was eternal and simply
+asked how it came to its present state. One group, the materialists,
+held that an active principle inherent in the matter working through
+long ages, brought about the present state of things. Another group,
+the pantheists, held that every thing emanated from a common divine
+substance, working everywhere in nature. But this brief story lets at
+rest all this inquiry. It informs us that matter was not eternal nor
+did it come into existence by chance, but it was created out of
+nothing by our eternal God. The story incidentally sets forth the
+majesty and glory of God and man's dependence upon and his obligation
+to God. It also explains the origin of sin and of all man's ills and
+death.
+
+Creation of Man.   The  Story of the preparation of a residence for
+man is told in five brief paragraphs. For concision, picturesqueness
+and concreteness, this narrative is not excelled in all literature. It
+shows how God acting as a creating Spirit through six successive
+periods of light and darkness prepared the world and put man in it. In
+the matter of the creation of man the presence and activity of Jehovah
+is especially emphasized. He shaped the body out of the dust of the
+earth and breathed into the nostrils of that human form that which
+made him become a living soul. It was the breath of God that gave life
+to man and hence he will return again to dust when that breath is
+withdrawn. Concerning the creation of woman it is better to admit
+that her creation was supernatural just as was man's. Her creation was
+to provide for man a helpful companionship so that his development and
+happiness might be complete. Her creation out of a part of man's body
+and to meet an inborn need provides the eternal grounds of marriage
+and the basis upon which they are in marriage to become one flesh and
+by reason of which man must "love his wife as his own flesh." Man is
+created in the image of God and like the Creator has intelligence and
+will and is given authority to rule over the earth.
+
+Man's Home and Occupation. No sooner was man created than was planted
+in the far distant east a garden that should be to him a home and
+provide therein for his physical and spiritual needs. Where that
+garden was located is not known with certainty. Occupation was,
+however, provided so that he might exercise and develop each part of
+his nature. He exercised his mind in naming the animals and in some
+way the tree of good and evil was destined to be for his blessing. His
+soul had fellowship with Eve his helpmate and God his creator. This
+garden also had in it a life-giving tree that gave them the
+possibility of enjoying an endless life should they remain near it and
+continue to eat its fruit.
+
+The Temptation. The study proceeds on the basis that there was already
+a race of fallen beings in the universe. Satan was the chief of these
+and had the mysterious power of tempting others to follow him. He
+assumed the form of a serpent-a creature least likely to be suspected
+and thereby deceived Eve the weaker. The temptation had several
+elements: (1) The talking serpent was to her in the nature of a
+miracle; (2) Eve had not heard the command of God herself (it was
+given before her creation) but had learned it from Adam. The devil
+therefore raised a doubt as to whether God really forbade it; (3) The
+question implies a doubt concerning the goodness and wisdom of God;
+(4) It appeals to the lust of flesh, to the pride of the eye and to
+the pride of life. It was beautiful, good for food, and to make her
+wise even like God; (5) In this appeal to curiosity there is an
+implied dare; (6) She was told that she had a mistaken idea of the
+penalty-that she should "not surely die."
+
+In all this it will be noted that the temptation was to fall upward.
+All the motives-the satisfaction of natural appetite, the desire for
+knowledge and power and the love for beauty were in themselves worthy.
+The temptation was to better herself. Such it is always. Adam was not
+directly approached, but he willfully disobeyed without being beguiled
+as was the woman. The chief blame, therefore, fell upon him.
+
+The Fall and Punishment. The fearful consequences of their sin are
+felt at once. They are changed so that they are conscious of guilt and
+endeavor to hide themselves from Jehovah. Thus they acknowledge their
+unfitness for fellowship with Him. Their soul having lost communion
+with God, they become corrupt. This is spiritual death. They were
+banished from the garden and forced to struggle for food. Their bodies
+became subject to pain and death by separation from the animating
+spirit. They could not longer eat of the life-giving tree of the
+garden. The earth was cursed so that instead of ministering to man's
+pleasure and support, it would produce much to his hurt. The woman in
+her unredeemed state was to be in subordination to her husband. The
+sad story of downtrodden women in heathen lands of all times since
+then, and even today wherever Christ is not known, tells something of
+the awful results of her sin.
+
+The Hope Offered. The gloom of this sad story of their punishment was
+relieved by an element of hope. The man and his wife are not beyond
+the pale of God's love. There is given a promise (3:15) which assures
+the coming of one, who would contend with the tempter and would
+finally crush his head and repair the damage of the Fall. All of the
+rest of the Bible unfolds the plan and work of God in fulfilling this
+promise. There is beginning with Cain and Abel and running through the
+entire scripture a record of the conflict caused by the enmity between
+the seed of woman and that of her seducer. This conflict is to end
+when Christ the "seed of the woman" shall return to reign and shall
+cast his adversary into the bottomless pit. Along with this promise he
+also provided for them garments of the skins of animals such as were
+suited to their new and hostile environment and in which most writers
+find a suggestion of the covering of righteousness that comes to
+guilty sinners through the death of Jesus. Then too there was erected
+at the east of the garden an alter of worship not unlike that provided
+in connection with the Tabernacle later and where God dwelt in mercy
+and could be approached. Here was opened up a way by which they might
+after being forgiven again have a right to the tree of life and live
+forever.
+
+Some Teachings of this Story. Back of this story are many truths
+worthy of most careful study. They constitute the basal facts of all
+history and religion. The following are put down as among the most
+vital: (1) Back of all nature is a personal Creator and Ruler who has
+the tenderest solicitude and care for man, as the highest product of
+his creation. (2) There was an orderly progress in creation from the
+more simple and less important to the most complex and most important.
+(3) All things were made for man and his comfort. (4) Marriage is a
+sacred obligation growing out of the very character of man and woman
+who were made for each other and each can, therefore, meet the deepest
+needs of the other. (5) Sin does not originate in God but in man's
+yielding to his baser instead of his nobler and diviner motives. (6)
+Sin as a cause brings its own punishment, the worst of which is the
+separation of the individual from harmonious relations with God, which
+is spiritual death.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The condition of the material universe
+when God began to prepare it for man's abode. (2) The six creative
+days or periods and what was created in each. (3) The special emphasis
+upon the presence and activity of God in the creation of man and
+woman. (4) The divine interest in and preparation for the happiness of
+man. (5) The home prepared for them. (6) The lessons about marriage,
+its purpose, basis, etc. (7) The law and place of testing in the
+formation of character. (8) The ills of life that are the results of
+some one's sin. (9) The nature and results of the curse upon the man,
+upon the woman, upon the tempter. (10) God's care for man after the
+Fall and the provisions for his recovery. (11) The revelation of God
+made by these three chapters. (12) The image of God in man.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter II.
+
+From the Fall to the Flood.
+
+Gen. Chs. 4-8.
+
+Cain and Abel. These two, who are apparently the oldest children of
+the first pair, were no doubt born soon after the expulsion from the
+garden. One tilled the soil and the other was a shepherd. They each
+appear to have been attentive to worship. Their offerings, however,
+were very different and no doubt revealed a difference of spirit. The
+superiority of Abel's offering was in the faith in which it was made
+(Heb. 11:4), meaning perhaps that he relied upon the promise of God
+and that he apprehended the truth that without shedding of blood there
+is no remission. (Heb. 12:24).
+
+Because God granted to Abel a token of acceptance of his offering and
+failed to grant a like token to Cain, the latter became jealous and
+finally slew his brother. Thus early did Adam and Eve begin to reap
+the effects of sin. The record, in kindness to them, makes no mention
+of the great sorrow that must have come to them as they saw their
+second son murdered by their first-born. These two sons represent two
+types running through all the Bible and indeed through all history-the
+unchecked power of evil and the triumph of faith. They represent two
+types of religion, one of faith and the other of works. Then as in all
+succeeding ages the true worshipers were persecuted by false
+worshipers.
+
+God showed his mercy to Cain whom he sent away from the place of
+worship at the east of the garden by putting upon him the divine mark
+so that no one should destroy him. He also allowed him to prosper and
+it was through his descendants that civilization began to show itself.
+
+Cain and Seth-Two Races. Another son was born to Adam named Seth.
+Probably others have been born since the death of Abel but none of a
+like spirit to Abel and hence none worthy to become the head of a
+spiritual branch of mankind. Cain's descendants applied themselves to
+the arts and to manufactures, to the building of cities and the making
+those things that furnish earthly comfort, while the descendants of
+Seth, were selected to be the instruments of religious uplift and to
+have communion with Jehovah. Through inter-marriage with the
+descendants of Cain, however, the generation of Seth was corrupted.
+This led to a period of great wickedness and the destruction of the
+people by the flood.
+
+The great age of those who lived in this period may have been a
+provision of nature for the promotion of a rapid increase of the race
+and for the advancement of knowledge. The revelation of God to them
+could thereby be the better preserved. Then, too, the body of man was
+not originally subject to death and when it became so because of his
+sin, the process of decay may have been less rapid. And, besides, the
+effect of hereditary disease had not begun to effect and weaken the
+race.
+
+The Great Wickedness. As indicated above, this Wickedness seemed to
+arise from the intermarriage of the descendants of Seth and those of
+Cain. The descendants of Seth were called "the song of God," because
+they were the religious seed. When they looked upon the beautiful
+daughters of Cain (called the daughters of man because they
+represented the irreligious portion of the race), they married them
+and thereby brought the whole race into such corruption that "every
+imagination of the thought of his heart was only evil continually"
+(Gen. 6:5). God therefore declared "My Spirit shall not always strive
+with man" and set the limit when he should quit thus striving with him
+at one-hundred and twenty years (Gen. 6:3). After that God proposed to
+destroy the whole wicked race from off the face of the earth (Gen.
+6:7).
+
+Noah God's Chosen Man. The narrative tells us (Gen. 6:8) that "Noah
+found favor in the eyes of Jehovah." This was no doubt because his
+character and acts were acceptable to Him. He was the tenth and last
+in the Sethic line. He was the son of Lamech (Gen. 5:28), a godly man,
+who had felt the weight of burden because of the curse which God had
+pronounced upon the ground because of Adam's sin. He was called Noah
+by his father, because he said the child would be a source of comfort
+concerning their toil growing out of that curse (Gen. 5:39). He was a
+just and perfect man and walked with God (Gen. 6:9; 7:1). Compare also
+I Peter 3:20 and Heb. 11:7. He is also called a preacher of
+righteousness (II Peter 2:5) and it is probable that, during the
+one-hundred and twenty years that were likely employed in building the
+ark, he preached to his generation and tried to lead them to
+repentance. He was, however, unable to influence any save his own
+family. The saving of his own family was, however, a splendid monument
+of his life.
+
+The Ark. Noah built the ark according to the pattern given him by
+Jehovah. It was a sort of box-like boat 525 ft. long 87-1/2 ft. wide
+and 42-1/2 ft. deep, if we count a cubit at twenty-one inches. It was
+three stories high, and the building of it was a huge undertaking. We
+need not, however, think of it as an undertaking beyond the resources
+of the times. All those early people seem to have been fond of
+colossal works. The building of this Ark was not only an object lesson
+to the ungodly people of the time but a satisfactory proof of the
+faith of the builder.
+
+The Flood. At the command of Jehovah Noah and his household entered
+the Ark carrying two of every species of unclean, and seven of every
+clean kind of animal and creeping things. They were shut in by the
+hand of God. The scripture passes silently over all horrors that
+filled the earth as man and beast were destroyed. We may imagine them
+trying by strength to get out of reach of the rising waters, but no
+mental culture or mechanical skill or physical culture, neither tears
+and entreaties could deliver man from the destruction which God had
+determined because of sin. It was seven months before the Ark rested
+on Ararat and more than five more before the ransomed company departed
+from it.
+
+The Sacrifice and Rainbow Covenant. Upon leaving the Ark Noah
+expressed his thanksgiving and devotion to God by erecting an altar to
+Jehovah and offering thereon a sacrifice consisting of victims of
+every species of clean bird and beast. The fragrance of this
+sacrifice, such as the world had never seen before, was pleasant to
+Jehovah and he visited Noah with a promise that he would not again
+send such a flood upon the earth. The rainbow was given as a pledge of
+the promise made him. It was to be the constant seal of mercy on God's
+part, and it is not necessary to worry over the question as to whether
+there had never been a rainbow before or whether it was simply
+appropriated as a sign. In this new covenant the earth was put under
+Noah, as it was under Adam at first. He was, however, allowed to eat
+flesh, only mans blood was not to be shed and the seasons were to
+continue in regularity. Thus the race started anew as a saved group,
+rescued through the faith of Noah.
+
+Confirmation of Tradition and Geology. Perhaps no other event of
+scripture history has found so large a place in ancient traditions and
+legends as has the flood. It is found in each of the three great
+races-the Semites; the Aryan; and the Tutarian. It is found alike
+among savage and civilized races, and as might be expected is most
+accurate in the countries that were nearest to where the Ark rested.
+Among the most important of these early traditions are those of
+Babylon. Greece, China, and America. In a general way these traditions
+may be said to agree with the Biblical story in the following
+particulars: (1) That a flood destroyed an evil world; (2) That one
+righteous family was saved in a boat and that animals were saved with
+them; (3) That the boat landed on a mountain; (4) That a bird was sent
+out of the boat; (5) That the saved family built an altar and
+worshiped God with sacrifice. All these stories tend to corroborate
+the Biblical story and to show that the whole race must have spring
+from this common home from which they have been scattered abroad.
+
+Geology has also done much to confirm the flood story. Geologists are
+well acquainted with facts in world history that bring the flood
+"entirely within the range of natural phenomena." The Scripture (Gen.
+7:11) speaks of the fountains of the deep being broken, language that
+could refer to the inrushing of the sea upon a depression of the earth
+which later rose again. Such elevations and depressions have occurred
+many times. An example is the elevation of the coast of Chile by an
+earthquake in 1822. Such an explanation by no means destroys the
+miracle of it, since the coming just when Noah had completed the ark
+and entered it and just when God said it would come, provided the
+element of miracle. A wide-spread flood is also required by the
+discovery of evidence in the earth of the destruction of animal life.
+
+Some Teachings of This Period. The teachings of this period may be
+divided into three groups: Those concerning Cain and Abel; those
+concerning Cain and Seth. or the two races; those concerning the
+flood.
+
+Those concerning Cain and Abel are: (1) The mere fact of having
+worshiped is not a guarantee of acceptance with God. (2) Both the
+spirit and the form of worship must please Jehovah. (3) God tries to
+point out the right way to men and only punishes when man fails to
+give heed. (4) Man is free and though God may turn to show him a
+better way, he will not restrain him by force even from the worst
+crimes. (5) To try to shun the responsibility of being our brother's
+keeper is to show the spirit of Cain.
+
+The story of Cain and Seth, or the two races show: (1) That our acts
+reveal our thoughts. (2) That the indulgence of our lusts and
+appetites disgraces the noblest people. (3) That outward culture
+without true religion will not save a people. (4) The noble and good
+will finally dominate other men.
+
+The story of the flood teaches: (1) That Jehovah can not make men
+righteous against their will. (2) That men by wickedness grieve God
+and thwart his purposes. (3) That man has, therefore, power to cause
+his own destruction. (4) That God does not save because of numbers or
+civilization, but because of character and obedience to his laws. (5)
+That God is pleased with the worship of those who obey him.
+
+For Study and Discussion, (1) The consequences of sin as seen in this
+period with special reference to the new truths added to those of the
+former period. (2) New truths about God. (3) The beginning of the arts
+of civilization. (4) The unity of the race. (S) The names and ages of
+the six oldest men and whether any one of them could have known
+personally both Adam and Noah. (6) The size, architecture and the task
+of building the Ark. (7) The flood as a whole. (8) The inhabitants of
+the Ark. (9) The departure from the Ark, and the new covenant. (10)
+The flood as a divine judgment especially in the light of the judgment
+put upon Adam and Cain. (11) Noah as the first man mentioned who saved
+others and the way in which he represents Jesus. (12) Evidences of
+man's freedom as seen in this and the former chapters. (13) Worship as
+seen in the two periods studied.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter III.
+
+From the Flood to Abraham
+
+Gen. Chs. 9-11.
+
+Noah's Shame and Prophecy. Just what the vocation of Noah bad been
+before his call to prepare for the flood we do not know. But after the
+flood, perhaps compelled by necessity, he became an husbandman. He had
+probably settled on the slopes or in the valleys of Ararat where he
+planted a vineyard. On one occasion at least he fell under the
+intoxicating influence of the fermented wine. This man upon whom God
+had conferred such great favor and who alone preserved the race alive
+lay naked and helpless in his tent.
+
+In this shameful condition he was discovered by his sons whose conduct
+led him in a spirit of prophecy to assign to his three sons the
+rewards and punishments which their deeds merited. The punishment and
+rewards fell upon the descendants of his sons. The descendants of Ham,
+because of his joy rather than sorrow over the sin and humiliation of
+his father, should always be a servile race. Out of these descendants
+of Ham arose the Canaanites, the Babylonians and the Egyptians who
+developed the three great civilizations of antiquity. Their
+ascendancy, however, soon passed. The Canaanites were subdued by the
+Israelites; the Cushites of Chaldea were absorbed by Semitic
+conquerors and Carthage of the Phoenicians fell before her foes. The
+sons of Cush, in the scripture commonly meaning the Ethiopian and now
+known as the black-skinned African, are the very synonym for weakness,
+degradation and servitude.
+
+The descendants of Japheth and Shem like those of Ham can be traced
+only in part. The Japhethites probably settled around the
+Mediterranean and in the northwest beyond the Black Sea. From them
+"the great races of Europe, including the Greeks, the Romans, and the
+more modern nations, must have sprung." The Shemites were located,
+generally speaking, between the territories occupied by the sons of
+Ham and Japheth. Aram, one of the sons of Japheth, settled in Syria
+near Damascus in northern part of Mesopotamia and through his son, Uz,
+gave the name of Uz to the territory, thus showing how that branch of
+the Hebrews came from western Mesopotamia, a fact now confirmed by
+modern discovery. All the other sons of Shem and their descendants are
+dropped from the record of Chapter eleven, except that of Arphaxad
+from whom descended Abram.
+
+The prophecy of Noah was not only fulfilled in the case of Ham and his
+punishment but in the blessing of the Others. Shem was for a long time
+signally blessed as is witnessed by the Asiatic supremacy and
+especially in the Jews who conquered the Canaanites (descendants of
+Ham) and in whose tents God dwelt. During that period of the
+ascendancy of the Shemites not much was known of the descendants of
+Japheth. But now for more than two thousand years his have been the
+dominant race of the earth. Year by year, the Japhethites have spread
+over the globe, until whole continents are now peopled by him. He now
+rests his foot upon every soil either as a trader, colonist or
+national power.
+
+The Tower of Babel. The place of this tower is in the land of Shinat,
+which is the name given by the early Hebrews to the land of Babylonia
+(Gen. 10:10; 14:19; Is. 11:1; Dan. 1:2; Zech. 5:11). This plain of
+Shinar had become the center of the earth's population. They threw up
+with infinite toil great mounds, which still stand as monuments of
+human achievement. Many such mounds and ruins, any of which would have
+seemed lofty in contrast with the level plain of Babylon, may be seen
+by the traveler.
+
+The exact location of this tower cannot be determined with certainty,
+but it has been thought by some that a great mound on the east of the
+Euphrates, which probably represents the remains of the great temple
+of Marduk with its huge pyramid-like foundation, was the site of this
+tower. On the west of the Euphrates, however, is a vast mound called
+Birs Nimrood, which used to be regarded as the ruins of the Tower of
+Babel. The fact that it early gave the impression of incompleteness
+favors this claim. Nebuchadnezzar says on a tablet that another king
+began it but left it unfinished. It fell into disrepair and was
+completed by Nebuchadnezzar and was used as one of the great temples.
+It was built of brick and was oblong in form. It measured seven
+hundred yards around and rose to a height of from one hundred and
+fifty to two hundred feet high. It consisted o? seven stages or
+stories colored to represent the tints which the Sabeans thought
+appropriate to the seven planets. Beginning from the bottom they were
+black, orange, bright red, golden, pale yellow, dark blue and silver,
+representing respectively the colors of Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, the
+Sun, Venus. Mercury, and the Moon. These marks may indicate the
+prevalence of idolatry and have led some to think the tower of Babel
+was intended to do honor to the gods of Babylonia.
+
+The specific purpose of this tower is difficult to determine. Josephus
+says the object was to save the people in case of another flood. The
+scripture record (11:4) indicates that they were moved by an unholy
+pride and selfish desire to make for themselves a great name. It also
+was intended to become a sort of rallying-point which would keep the
+people together and prevent the destruction of their glory which they
+thought would result from their separation. In 11:6 God says "nothing
+will be restrained from them which they have imagined to do." In this
+there is an implication that they are at cross purposes with God. It
+was an act that defied God and showed the need of punishment. It is
+not unlikely that idolatry had begun to prevail and that the tower was
+built in honor of those false Gods whom men were disposed to trust.
+
+The incompleteness of the tower is attributed to divine intervention.
+Hitherto all the descendants of Noah had spoken the same language, but
+now by a direct divine interposition they are caused to speak several,
+and then separated so they can no longer cooperate with each other in
+carrying out their plans which had so displeased God. The different
+languages then are regarded as a punishment of the race which had
+rebelled against God.
+
+Traditions of such a tower may be found in  many  forms and  in many
+countries. _In Babylonia_ there was a tradition that not long after
+the flood men were tall and strong and became so puffed up that they
+defied the gods and tried to erect a tower called Babylon by means of
+which they could scale heaven. But when it reached the sky the gods
+sent a mighty wind and turned over the tower. They said that hitherto
+all men had used the same language, but that at this time there was
+sent on them a confusion of many tongues, from which confusion the
+tower was named Babel. _In Greece_, there was a legend in which we
+trace the story of the tower of Babel. According to this legend a race
+of giants tried to reach Mount Olympus, which was supposed to be the
+residence of the gods, by piling Mount Ossa upon Pelion. But the gods
+interfered with their plan and scattered the impious conspirators.
+This effort of the Titans to mount up to heaven corresponds so well to
+the motive of the builders of the tower as to indicate that there was
+a common origin for both stories.
+
+There is also a Greek tradition that Helen had three sons: Aeolus,
+Dorus, and Ion, who were the ancestors of the three great branches of
+the Hellenic race. This again corresponds to the prophetic table of
+nations which were to descend from Shem, Ham, and Japheth, the three
+sons of Noah.
+
+The Civilization of the Ancient World. Just when and where
+civilization began we have no means of telling. The Bible speaks of a
+very high state of civilization at a very early time (Gen. 4:20-22).
+In ages long before Abraham and Moses the world had made great
+advancement in culture, commerce, law and religion. From the monuments
+and engraven vases that have been found in such unearthed cities as
+Nippur, we now know that Abraham and Moses did not live in a crude and
+undeveloped age, but, as the Bible would imply, in an age of great
+progress. We even learn that long before their time there was a most
+complete and complex civilization.
+
+Two Great Empires of Antiquity. It is impossible to tell which of two
+great nations, the Chaldeans and the Egyptians, first attained to a
+high state of civilization. They appear to have started very early in
+the race, the Chaldeans in the plains on the banks of the Euphrates
+and the Egyptians in the plains on the banks of the Nile. They seem to
+have made about equal progress in all the arts of civilization.
+
+Nimrod, a descendent of Ham, is declared to be the founder of the
+Chaldean Empire. His exploits as a hunter seem to have aided him to
+the throne. He began to reign at Babel and had a number of cities in
+the plain of Shinar. Later he went out in the district of Assyria and
+built Ninevah and a number of other cities. From the Assyrian and
+Chaldean ascriptions, we have learned much of the Accadians, whose
+influence carried forward that early civilization. We thereby confirm
+the Biblical claim that it was under Nimrod the Cushite, and not
+through the Semitic race, that the Chaldean kingdom began.
+
+Of the beginning of the Egyptian empire, the other great center of
+civilization, we have no certain knowledge. So far as the records of
+the scriptures or of the earliest records to which the monuments bear
+witness, Egypt comes before us full grown. The further back we go the
+more perfect and developed do we find the organization of the country.
+The activity and industry of the Egyptians, their power of erecting
+great buildings and of executing other laborious tasks at this early
+period is a marvel to all ages. It has been shown by Prof. Petrie that
+some of the blocks in at least one of the great pyramids were cut by
+tubular drills fitted with diamond points or something similar. This
+to us is a very modern invention.
+
+At least thirty dynasties of kings (according to Manetho) ruled Egypt
+in succession. At least twelve of these must have reigned in Egypt
+before Jacob and his sons settled within their borders. Many of the
+great monuments and some of the largest of the pyramids were already
+to be seen before Abraham visited that country. There had been
+constant progress in all kinds of learning and art, and a highly
+advanced society and government had been attained when the Bible
+history first came in contact with it.
+
+Commerce was carried on extensively on both land and sea. Long before
+the time of Moses a stream of caravans were on the road between Egypt
+and Babylon, passing through Canaan. Treaties were made between
+different states whereby these caravans were protected and given safe
+passage through the countries traversed. Three thousand years before
+Christ the Phoenicians sent out ships from Tyre that had intercourse
+with the cities of the Mediterranean and later with England and sailed
+around Africa and traded on the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. Egypt
+sent sea expeditions to South Africa in the sixteenth century before
+Christ. All of this suggests how much more of geography these ancients
+knew than we are accustomed to think.
+
+Language and Literature. It is impossible to say what was the original
+language. But that men once spoke the same language and that the
+varieties of human tongues arose from some remarkable cause is in some
+degree confirmed by the research of modern scholarship. The Bible
+alone states clearly what that cause was. All existing languages
+belong to three great families: the Aryan, the Semitic, and the
+Turanian. These correspond roughly to three sons of Noah: Shem, Ham
+and Japheth.
+
+In the time of Abraham and long before, and on to the time of Moses
+there was great literary culture. Letters passed between kingdoms and
+cities. There were schools and colleges, great dictionaries and many
+books on many subjects. The Babylonian language was almost universally
+employed, so that the scribes could read without difficulty a letter
+sent anywhere in Egypt, Babylon, Canaan, or Arabia. This unity makes
+the translation of inscriptions on the monuments comparatively easy.
+
+We know nothing of the origin of writing. As far back as we go into
+their history we find, already developed, a most complex system of
+writing and large libraries both in the royal cities and in small
+towns.
+
+The Motive of Their Civilization. This is not difficult to find. The
+old Babylonian kings were called Priest Kings, and built their
+empires, temples, and cities, and exhibited such wonderful activities
+from a religious motive. The great mounds on the plain of Shinar, and
+the pyramids of Egypt are the eternal monuments of the religious
+devotion of  these ancient people. Their religion was, however, filled
+with all sorts of idolatrous abuses and God called Abraham to be the
+leader of a purer religious life and to be the father of a people from
+whom would come the Great Revealer of all religious truth.
+
+The Lessons of this Period. The stories of this period have for us
+several valuable lessons, among which the following are most vital.
+(I) All races had a common origin and are, therefore, vitally related.
+(2) By tracing the origin of the different races, we are shown
+Israel's place in the family of nations. (3) Since all nations are but
+branches of the same great family, all men are brothers. (4) The
+Hebrews are deeply interested in all of their neighbors, and their
+unique history can only be understood, in their true relation, as a
+part of the ancient Semitic world. (5) God exercises a common rule
+over all nations. (6) Civilization at this early age had reached a
+great advancement. (7) Men had reached a stage of great wickedness and
+because of their defiance of God were punished both by the confusion
+of tongues and by being scattered far and wide.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The genealogies of Noah's sons. (2) The
+different places where his descendants settled, the cities they built
+and the names of those connected with each. Study the geography. (3)
+Through which of Noah's sons the Messiah came and through which of his
+sons. (4) Lessons from the shame of Noah and the spirit of his sons.
+(5) The nature and fulfillment of his prophecies concerning his sons.
+(6) The universality of the race and the origin of the nations. (7)
+The teachings of the tower of Babel. (8) The origin of different
+languages and the relation of languages to the creation of separate
+nations. (9) The traditions of other peoples and their relation and
+correspondence to the stories of this section. (10) The evidence of
+ancient monuments that corroborate or throw light upon the meaning of
+this section of the scripture. (11) The civilization of that early
+time compared with that of our time.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter IV.
+
+From Abraham to Egypt.
+
+Gen. Chs. 12-50
+
+The Events of the Period. The events of this period may be put down
+somewhat as follows: (1) Abraham's call and settlement in Canaan, chs.
+12-13. (2) The rescue of Lot from the plundering kings of the North,
+ch. 14. (3) God makes a covenant with Abraham, ch. 15. (4) The birth
+and disposal of Ishmael, ch. 16. (5) The Promise of Isaac, ch. 17. (8)
+The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, chs. 18-19. (7) Abraham lives
+at Gerar. Isaac is born and sacrificed, chs. 20-22. (8) Sarah's death,
+ch. 23. (9) Isaac is married, ch. 24. (10) Abraham and Ishmael die and
+Isaac's two sons, ch. 25. (11) Isaac dwells in Gerar and Jacob steals
+his brother's birthright, chs. 26-27. (12) Jacob's experiences as a
+fugitive and his roll and settlement in Canaan, chs. 28-36. Joseph's
+career and the settlement of the nation in Egypt, chs. 37-50.
+
+The Purpose of Narrative. In this section we have given us, in brief
+form, the career of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and their families and
+how we received the promises through them. Ages have passed since Noah
+and the people had grown wicked and turned from Jehovah to other gods.
+God had promised not to destroy the world with another flood, but he
+must employ other and new means. He, therefore, selects a man and in
+him a nation that should be his representative on earth. With this man
+and nation God would deposit his truth and in it the hopes of the race
+until the time when Christ the redeemer should come.
+
+We pass, therefore, from the consideration of the beginnings of the
+history of the race and from the general history to the story of one
+man, Abraham and the chosen family and nation. All the rest of the Old
+Testament is an account of the victories and defeats of this nation.
+
+The Conditions of the Times. At the time of Abraham three countries
+are of special interest, Chaldea, Egypt and Canaan. Outwardly there
+was a splendid civilization as is shown by the monuments. There were
+great cities with splendid palaces, temples and libraries. "There were
+workers in fabrics, metals, stones, implements and ornaments." Time
+was divided as now and sun-dials showed the time of day. Great systems
+of canals existed and the country was in a high state of cultivation.
+The pyramids were already old and a great stone wall had long ago been
+built across the isthmus of Suez to prevent the immigrants and enemies
+of the north from coming down upon them. In Tyre and Sidon there were
+great glass works and dying factories. There were also vast harbors
+crowded with sea going ships. Luxurious living was to be found
+everywhere.
+
+_Inwardly_, however, there was a corrupt moral condition, which was
+hastening the nations to decay and to a ruin such as amazes all the
+world to this day. Ur of the Chaldees, the birth place and home of
+Abraham, was the seat of the great temple of the moon-god, and this
+sanctuary became so famous that the moon-god was known throughout all
+northern Syria as the Baal or Lord of Haran. The bad state of the
+times is suggested by Sodom and Gomorrah and their fate. For these
+cities were perhaps only typical of the entire civilization of the
+time.
+
+In such a time and out of such a civilization God called Abraham, who
+should found a new nation that would serve him and form the basis of a
+new civilization. He also selected Canaan as the home of this new
+people. It was the geographical center of all the ancient world and a
+revelation of God made there would soon be know among all nations.
+
+The Confirmations of the Biblical Record. Each new excavation made in
+the ruins of the ancient, long-buried, cities throws new light upon
+the scriptures and always confirms its statements. There are on the
+tablets of clay found in the old libraries statements concerning the
+social, commercial, religious and political conditions of the time of
+Abraham and before and all of them agree with the statements of
+Genesis. There has been found a record of the years of famine and the
+Pharaohs of the time have been determined.
+
+The kings who captured Lot are now known. The Bible has suffered
+nothing at all from the knowledge gained from the ancient records.
+
+The Experiences of Abraham. The call of Abraham as recorded In this
+section is probably from Ur of the Chaldees to Haran where his father
+died (11:31-32). His call is the most important event in the history
+of God's kingdom since the fall of man. It was indeed a new starting
+point for that kingdom. The call was accompanied by a promise or
+covenant in which God bound himself not to withdraw from Abraham
+(15:17-21). The call and work, together with the promises, may be put
+down somewhat as follows:
+
+1. _It was a call to separation from his home and native land._ He was
+a large shepherd-farmer with large flocks and herds and a number of
+slaves. The family was perhaps of high rank in his country and there
+was a warm family affection in his family. Many others had gone from
+his country to the regions of the Mediterranean but always for gain or
+selfish betterment, Abraham went in obedience to the divine call.
+There was no selfishness in his move. He went for conscience' sake,
+somewhat as the Pilgrims, forsaking all the ties of nature that bound
+them to England, sailed to America in the Mayflower.
+
+2. _It was a call to service_. The people of his time were falling
+into idolatry. Even Terah, his father, was an idolater and reputed to
+have been a maker of idol images. He was to serve the one true God and
+to stand for principle where everyone was against him. He was to enter
+into covenant relations with God and stand alone with him where all
+social and national customs were hostile.
+
+3. _It was a call to found a nation_. The promise was to make of him a
+great nation that should have as its main purpose the service of the
+one God. God foresaw the ruin that was to come to all the nations of
+Abraham's time and prepared him and in him a new and spiritual nation
+which would produce a new and godly civilization. He died when Jacob
+was but a lad and did not see the fulfillment of the promise of the
+nation that should outlast Egypt or Babylon.
+
+4. _It was a call to be the father of a son_. In 17:16 God promised
+him a son, Isaac, in whom his seed should be called (21:12). Out of
+him was to come a blessing to all nations. This promise was fulfilled
+in Christ, through whom all the nations of the earth have been
+blessed. Just as in Isaac Abraham became the head of a great earthly
+seed that should be as the sand of the sea, so in Jesus he should be
+the head of a great spiritual seed that should be as the stars of the
+heaven for numbers.
+
+God often repeats his covenant and promises with Abraham, Gen. 12:1-7;
+13:14-17; 15:1-21; 17:1-8; 18:18; 22:16-18. He often renews it in the
+generations to come as to Isaac, Gen. 26:1-5, and to Jacob, Gen.
+28:10-15.
+
+The Character of Abraham. How great is the name of Abraham today! He
+is revered by Jews, Mohammedans and Christians (ch. 12:2). In all
+history there is not a nobler character. The story of his life shows
+him to have been shrewd in business, of good temper, of warm domestic
+affections and possessed of much calm wisdom. He was generous in his
+dealings with others, looking well after their interests. He often
+made sacrifices for the well-being of others. The most significant
+thing about him, however, was his attitude toward God. His chief
+desire was to obey God. Wherever he went he erected an altar to God
+and in everything he manifested reverence, confidence, love and
+submission toward God. This is the chief element of his greatness.
+
+The Character and Career of Isaac. The life of Isaac has but little in
+it that is of special interest. He probably spent most of his life in
+a quiet home near, or in Hebron. This has been taken to suggest that
+he was of a quiet and retiring disposition. He was not a man of energy
+and force of character such as Abraham, his father, but he had all his
+father's reverence for God. His faith in God was rewarded with a
+renewal of the promises which Abraham had received.
+
+Among the incidents of his life that should be noted are the
+following: (1) His experience on Mount Moriah, when his father in
+obedience to God prepared to sacrifice him in worship. Such sacrifice
+was common in Babylonia, Phoenicia and Canaan. The submission to his
+father's will and evident obedience to the divine will indicated would
+seem to point to his faith in God. While he does not mention the
+matter himself and it is not referred to again in this section, the
+experience must have had much influence on his whole career. (2) The
+second notable event of his life was his marriage. In this story there
+is preserved the ancient customs of his father's provision for the
+marriage of the son. The story also shows the overruling influence of
+deity in his marriage. The whole experience was calculated to show his
+sincere relation to God who was leading. (3) The birth of his twin
+sons Esau and Jacob. They were so different in type that their
+descendants for centuries showed a like difference and even became
+antagonistic. Jacob was ambitious and persevering. Esau was frank and
+generous but shallow and unappreciative of the best things. The
+birthright carried with it two advantages: (1) The headship of the
+family. (2) A double portion of the inheritance (Dt. 21:15-17). Jacob
+set great value upon it, while Esau preferred a good dinner. Isaac's
+latter days were made dark because of the relation of these sons.
+
+Stories Concerning Jacob. These are calculated to show that Jacob was
+clever and far-sighted and was willing to employ any mean, honorable
+or dishonorable, to gratify his ambition. They also show his suffering
+for his unfair acts and his final change to a new man. His deception
+of his father resulted in his becoming a fugitive from home and never
+again seeing his mother who aided him in his treachery. He was treated
+by Laban just as he himself had treated his brother. For twenty years
+he was deprived of the quiet and friendly life of his old home.
+
+While away he had some religious experiences that made him a new man.
+His vision at Bethel taught him that Jehovah his God was also caring
+for him though in a strange land. He may have thought that Jehovah
+dwelt only among the people of his nation and that on leaving home he
+was also going beyond the protection of God. As a result he erected
+here a sanctuary that became sacred to all the Hebrews.
+
+His struggle at the brook Jabbok made Jacob a new man. He had all
+along depended on his own wits. Now he is ready to return to his
+brother and show sorrow for his conduct. The incident is parallel to
+the struggle which a repentant man must wage against his lower nature.
+When the struggle is over he is a new man, a prince of god. Religion
+had become real to him and his whole future career is built on a new
+plan. He is still inventive and ambitious and persevering but is God's
+man doing God's will.
+
+In connection with Jacob we have also the lessons concerning Esau. He
+was a man intent upon immediate physical enjoyment; an idle drifter
+without spiritual ideals. From his character and that of the Edomites,
+his descendants, there is taught the lesson that such an unambitious
+man or nation will always become degenerate and prove a failure. God
+himself cannot make a man out of an idle drifter.
+
+The Stories About Joseph. The moral value of these stories is very
+great. They are told in a charm that is felt by all. The literary
+power and unity is remarkable. There is seen in them ideals of
+integrity and truthfulness. He is cheerful and uncomplaining and no
+adversity could destroy his ambitions. The study of this section will
+well reward a frequent review of it.
+
+All the materials may be grouped around the following principal great
+periods or incidents of his life. (1) His childhood, where we find him
+petted and spoiled but ambitious and trustworthy and hated by his
+brethren. (2) His sale to the Egyptians and separation from his house
+and kindred, this including his slavery and the faithfulness he showed
+in such a position. (3) His position as overseer and his loyalty
+together with his temptation and unjust imprisonment. (4) His
+exaltation to the governorship of Egypt with his provisions for the
+famine and change of the whole system of land tenure, which put it all
+under royal control. It would also include his kindness to his
+father's family in providing for their preservation.
+
+The stories have in them several elements that need to be noticed. (1)
+There are many sudden and striking contrasts. Such are his changes
+from a petted and spoiled boy in the home to a slave in Egypt; from an
+overseer of his master's house to a prisoner in the dungeon; for that
+dungeon to the governor of the powerful empire of the age. (2) His
+success is never based on or promoted by a miracle but is assured
+because he is of value to others. He wins no promotions by means of
+armor or conquests of power but by faithfulness to those whom he
+served. His is a conquest made by business sagacity. He is a hero of
+usefulness. (3) The use of his position to advance the interests of
+others is altogether out of line with the views of western students of
+society. We would hardly think it right for  one to so earnestly
+promote the interests of a heathen sovereign as Joseph did in the case
+of his slave master and of Pharaoh. (4) The pathos and depth of
+feeling is not surpassed in all literature. This is especially true in
+the story of his relations with his brethren when they visit Egypt.
+Pent up emotion tugs at one's heart as one reads of the anxiety of the
+brothers, the fear of the fear of the father, and the burning
+affection of Joseph. The spirit of forgiveness and love for his humble
+kinsmen fill one with admiration.
+
+The death of Jacob and Joseph. Jacob was greatly prospered and died at
+a ripe old age. He asked to be buried in Canaan and Joseph after
+having him embalmed went, accompanied by his kindred and friends, to
+Canaan and buried him according to his request. Before his death, he
+pronounced upon his sons a blessing that promised great increase in
+numbers and in political power.
+
+After the death of Jacob, Joseph continued to show kindness to his
+brethren. Before his death, at the age of one hundred and ten years,
+he prophesied that God would come and lead them out of Egypt and took
+an oath of them that they would carry up his bones to the land of
+Canaan into which they would be delivered.
+
+In Jacob's blessing on his sons and in Joseph's prophecy of their
+removal by God and his promises, they saw the providence of God in all
+the future of the race and expected its triumph.
+
+These stories typical. The stories of this section are commonly
+thought to be typical of New Testament truth.   While it is probably
+not best to make too much of this typical idea, it is safe to say that
+much of it is illustrative of such New Testament teachings. The career
+of Abraham, Isaac and Joseph each at some point or points suggests the
+life and work of Jesus. Abraham is called or appointed of God to be
+the head of a spiritual nation, he has revealed to him the will of
+God, he intercedes for a wicked Sodom and saved lot, all of which
+suggests the attitude and work of Jesus. Isaac is an only son, is
+offered in sacrifice, has secured for him a bride in a most unusual
+manner. This again in many ways illustrates the attitude and work of
+the Savior. But Joseph is perhaps more highly figurative of the
+Redeemer. His being hated and cast out by his brethren is like the
+rejection of Jesus; the way his wicked brethren came to him in their
+extremity and received forgiveness and sustenance suggest how a sinner
+finds mercy and life in Jesus; his prosperity and honor gained among
+others and the final coming of his brethren to him is suggestive in
+many of the details of the way the Jews rejected Jesus and of how,
+after Jesus has gained great power among Gentile nations, the Jews
+will finally repent of their national sin and accept the crucified
+Savior as the Jews' Messiah; the whole story of the humiliation,
+sufferings and exaltation of Joseph correspond to like events in the
+career of Jesus.
+
+Social and Religious Conditions of the Times. There is little to
+suggest anything savage or barbarous. The spirit and language of
+courtesy is everywhere present. There is great hospitality and the
+marriage relation was respected by such heathen rulers as Pharaoh and
+Abimelech. When property was bought and sold the contracts were formal
+and were held sacred even though the owner was long absent as in the
+case of Abraham who bought the cave of Machpelah. Rebekah had
+bracelets, ear-rings, jewels of silver and of gold, and fine raiment
+as elements of adornment. There were slaves but they were kindly
+treated and made almost as part of the family. Wealthy people as Jacob
+employed their sons in the ordinary occupations such as caring for the
+sheep. In Egypt and Chaldea the arts were highly developed and there
+was much learning.
+
+The worship of the patriarchs was very simple. They erected simple
+altars and offered on them burnt offerings. The erection of such
+altars and making such open profession of their worship were always
+among their first acts when they settled in a new place. There are
+some evidences that they observed the Sabbath of rest. Abraham gave a
+tithe to Melchizedek and Jacob promised God to do the same if he would
+bless him. God communed with them and gave them knowledge of his will
+and especially promised them great future blessing, through a
+deliverer that would come through the line of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob
+and Judah.
+
+The Book of Job. There has been a general belief that the incidents
+recorded in the book of Job belong to this period or even to an
+earlier time. There is no mention of the bondage in Egypt nor of any
+of the early Hebrew patriarchs. The Sabeans and Chaldeans were Job's
+neighbor! and he lived "in the east" where the first settlements of
+mankind were made. The social religious and family life as portrayed
+in this book correspond to those of this period. There was art and
+invention; there was understanding of astronomy and mining; there was
+a fine family affection and evidences of social kindness and
+benevolence; there was high development of commerce and government;
+there was both the true and false or idolatrous worship. This book
+should be read following the outline given in the author's "The Bible
+Book by Book."
+
+Lessons of the Period. It would be difficult to point out all the
+splendid lessons brought forward by these narratives but the following
+are among the more important ones. (1) God guides to a noble destiny
+all those who will be guided by him. (2) God reveals himself to all
+those who seek a revelation, no matter in what place or land, if only
+they are in the path of duty, (3) Unselfish service always brings a
+blessed reward. (4) God's blessing and guidance are not confined to
+Israel but are extended to other nations also. (5) A noble ambition,
+courage, unselfishness and childlike faith in God's leadership make
+men valuable to others in every age and walk of life. (6) A man or
+nation without spiritual ideal and bent on physical enjoyment will
+soon become degenerate as did Esau. (7) Even a fugitive, fleeing from
+his own crimes, is followed by the divine love and in his saddest
+moments and amidst his most discouraging surrounding circumstances is
+given glorious revelations. (8) In the divine providence our
+misfortunes of life often develop our nobler impulses of heart. (9)
+Unjust adversity cannot destroy a man of faith and integrity of
+character, if only he manifest a cheerful and helpful spirit. (10) God
+overrules evil for good, so that all things can bring good to them
+that love God. (11) Loyalty to unfortunate kindred in the time of
+success is a sure sign of nobility of character.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The  several   appearances  of God to
+Abraham: (a) The purpose  of  each; (b) its  influence in the life of
+Abraham. (2) The promises made to Abraham and renewed to Isaac and
+Jacob noting the progressive nature of the revelation seen in these
+promises. (3) Select four prominent persons besides Abraham, Isaac,
+Jacob, and Joseph, sketched in the section, and study them. (4) The
+other nations introduced in the narrative. (5) The moral condition of
+the times. (6) The worship of God seen in the section. (7) The points
+of weakness and strength in each of the patriarchs mentioned. (8) The
+disappointments and family troubles of Jacob as seen in the light of
+his early deceptions. (9) Other illustrations that a man will reap
+whatever he sows. (10) The strong family ties, seen especially in the
+matter of marriage. (11) The fundamental value of faith in life. (12)
+God's judgment and blessings of heathen people on behalf of his own
+chosen people. (13) The different immigrations of Abraham and others.
+(14) The places of historical importance mentioned. (15) The promises
+or types and symbols of Christ and the New Testament times.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter V.
+
+From Egypt to Sinai.
+
+
+Ex. Chs. 1-19
+
+Israel in Egypt. The length of time the Hebrews remained In Egypt is a
+perplexing question. Exodus 6:16-20 makes Moses the fourth generation
+from Levi (See Gen. 15:16; Num. 26:57-59). This would make it about
+150 years. Gen. 15:13 predicts 400 years. Ex. 12:40 says they were
+there 430 years and Paul (Gal. 3:17) says 430 years from Abraham to
+Sinai. These apparently conflicting dates may be explained because of
+different methods of counting generations, probably based on long
+lives of men of that period or they may have had a different point to
+mark the beginning and end of the sojourn. If the Pharaoh of Joseph
+was one of the Hyksos or Shepherd kings, as has been the common view,
+and if the Pharaoh "that knew not Joseph" was, as is the general
+belief, Rameses II, the period of 430 years would about correspond to
+the historical data.
+
+Their oppression grew out of the fear of the king lest they should
+assist some of the invaders that constantly harassed Egypt on the
+North. They may have assisted the shepherd kings under whom Joseph has
+risen and who had just been expelled. To cripple and crush them there
+was given them hard and exhaustive tasks of brick making under cruel
+task-masters. There still remains evidence of this cruelty in the many
+Egyptian buildings built of brick, made of mud mixed with straw and
+dried in the sun. When it was found that they still increased in
+number in spite of the suffering. Pharoah tried, at first privately
+then publicly, to destroy all the male children. This order does not
+seem to have been long in force but was a terrible blow to a people
+like the Hebrews whose passion for children, and especially for male
+children, has always been proverbial.
+
+It is difficult to gather from this narrative the varied influence of
+this sojourn upon the Hebrews themselves. They doubtless gained much
+of value from the study of the methods of warfare and military
+equipment of the Egyptians. They learned much of the art of
+agriculture and from the social and political systems of this
+enlightened people. No doubt many of their choicest men received
+educational training that fitted them for future leadership. Their
+suffering seems on the one hand to have somewhat deadened them,
+destroying ambition. On the other, it bound them together by a common
+bond and prepared the way for the work of Moses, the deliverer, and
+for the real birth of the nations.
+
+Moses the Deliverer. Chapters 2 and 4 tell the wonderful story of the
+birth of Moses, of his loyalty to his people, of his sojourn in Midian
+and of his final call to the task of the deliverance of Israel. His
+wonderful life-a life to which all the centuries are indebted-is
+naturally divided into three parts. (1) _His early life of forty years
+at the court of Pharaoh_. By faith his parents trusted him to the care
+of Providence and he was brought to the house of Pharoah and was
+taught in all the learning of the Egyptians, who conducted great
+universities and were highly cultured in the arts and sciences (Acts
+7:22). Finally feeling it to be his duty to renounce his worldly glory
+and identify himself with his Hebrew brethren, he made the choice by
+faith (Heb. 11:24-27). He no doubt felt then the call to be their
+deliverer but did not find his countrymen ready to accept him as such
+(Acts 7:25-28). Whereupon he fled to the wilderness of Midian. (2)
+_Forty years in the desert_ where he gained an intimate knowledge of
+all the wilderness through which for forty years he was to lead the
+Hebrews in their wanderings. Here he had opportunity to learn patience
+and meditate and gain the ability to wait on God. Here God finally
+appeared to him and gave him definite and ample instructions for his
+task of delivering out of bondage this crushed and ignorant slave race
+and for making of them a nation of the purest spiritual and moral
+ideals the world has ever known. (3) _Forty years as leader and
+lawgiver for Israel_ while they tabernacled in the wilderness.
+
+Perhaps three reasons led Moses to undertake the task of leaving
+Midian and championing the cause of Israel. (1) He had a vision of God
+the holy one of all power who would be with him. (2) The conviction
+that the time was ripe, because of the death of the king of Egypt and
+the years of weak government that followed. (3) By over-ruling all
+objections God gave him an overwhelming sense of his responsibility in
+the matter. He saw it as his personal duty.
+
+The call of Moses consists of two elements. (1) _The human element_
+which consisted of a knowledge of the needs of the Hebrew people. To
+him, as to all great leaders and benefactors of the race, the cry of
+the oppressed or needy constituted the first element of a call to
+enlist in their service. (2) _The divine element_. God heard the cry
+of his people and remembered his covenant with Abraham and appeared to
+Moses in a burning bush and sent him to deliver them from under the
+tyranny of Pharaoh. Like Isaiah (Is. Ch.6) he not only saw the need of
+his people but also the holy God calling him to supply the need.
+
+Moses task was three fold: (1) Religious: He was to show in Egypt
+weakness of the idolatrous worship and to establish in the wilderness
+the true worship of one and only God who is ruler of all. (2)
+_Political:_ He was to overcome the power of the mighty Pharaoh and
+deliver a people of 600,000 men besides the children with their herds
+and flocks out of his territory. Then, too, he was to give them laws
+and so connect them together that as a nation they would survive the
+hostile nations around them and the civil strife and dissensions
+within. (3) _Social_: He was also called upon to provide rules by
+which, to keep clean not only the individual, but his family, and to
+teach them right relations to each other. In carrying out this
+program, it devolved upon him to provide an elaborate code of civil,
+sanitary, ceremonial, moral and religious laws.
+
+The Great Deliverance. The deliverance may be properly considered in
+three sections. (1) The preparation. (2) The contest with Pharoah and
+the ten plagues. (3) The crossing of the Red Sea.
+
+The preparation consists (1) in getting the people acquainted with
+what God intended to do and thereby secure their full consent to enter
+into the plan. Then, too, it was necessary to have a very thorough
+organization so that the expedition could proceed in an orderly way.
+(2) There were various preliminary appeals to Pharaoh with the
+consequent added burdens laid upon the Hebrews.
+
+The contest with Pharaoh consisted of certain preliminary demands
+followed by ten national calamities intended to force the king to let
+the people go. The struggle was all based upon the request of Moses
+that all Israel be allowed to go three days' journey into the
+wilderness to serve their God. This gave the conflict a religious
+aspect and showed that the struggle was not merely one between Moses
+and Pharaoh, but between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt.
+
+All the plagues, therefore, had a distinct religious significance: (1)
+To show them the power of Jehovah (Ex. 7:17); (2) to execute judgment
+against the gods of Egypt (Ex. 12:12). Every plague was calculated to
+frustrate Egyptian worship or humiliate some Egyptian god. For
+example, the lice covered everything and were miserably polluting. All
+Egyptian worship was compelled to cease, since none of the priests
+could perform their religious service so long as any such insect had
+touched them since they went through a process of purification. In
+smiting the cattle with murrain, the sacred bull of Memphis was
+humiliated whether stricken himself or because of his inability to
+protect the rest of the cattle.
+
+These plagues grew more severe with each new one. And much effort has
+been made to show that one would have led to another. Much has been
+said also, to show that the plagues, at least most of them, were
+events that were common in Egypt and that they were remarkable only
+for their severity. Such attempts to explain away the miraculous
+element are based upon the wrong view of a miracle. The very
+occurrence in response to the word of Moses and at such time as to
+each time meet a particular condition, or to make a certain desired
+impression, would put them out of the pale of the pale of the ordinary
+and into the list of the extraordinary or miraculous. At all events
+the sacred writer, the Hebrews in Egypt at the time, and the Egyptians
+all believed the strong hand of Jehovah was laid bare on behalf of his
+people. So it must seem to all who now believe that God rules in his
+universe.
+
+In connection with and just preceding the tenth plague, there was
+institutioned the Passover to celebrate their deliverance from Egypt
+and especially the passing of the Hebrew homes by the angel who went
+abroad in Egypt to slay the first born. It was this plaque that
+finally showed Pharaoh and his people the folly of resisting Jehovah
+and assured Israel of his power. The paschal lamb, whose blood
+sprinkled upon the door posts and lintels of the dwelling saved the
+Hebrew, is a beautiful type of Christ and his saving blood. This feast
+became one of great joy, annually celebrated, during all future Hebrew
+history.
+
+The Crossing of the Red Sea. For three days and nights God led them by
+a pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night. At the end of the third
+day they had reached the shore of the Red Sea and were shut in by
+mountains on each side. They were greatly frightened to find that
+Pharaoh with a host of chariot-warriors was in close pursuit of them.
+But God caused the cloud that had been leading them to remove to their
+rear and to throw a shadow upon their enemies while giving power to
+the east wind (Ex. 14:21) that caused the waters of the sea to divide
+so they could cross on dry ground. When Pharaoh and his hosts
+attempted to follow then. God caused the waters to return and
+overwhelm them. As in former miracles, Moses was God's instrument in
+performing this miracle. When they were safe across and saw the
+overthrow of their enemies their feelings of joy expressed themselves
+in a great song of victory in which they ascribe praise to God and
+recount the incidents of his work of deliverance.
+
+The Journey to Sinai. It is not possible to locate all the stations at
+which they stopped on their journey from the Red Sea to the time of
+their encampment at the foot of Horeb or Sinai. The list is given in
+Numbers, Chapter thirty-three. For our purpose it is sufficient to
+notice only a few places and incidents of the journey. (1) They
+encamped at Marah, being the first watering place they had found. The
+water, however, was bitter and could not be used until God had enabled
+Moses by a miracle to sweeten it. This was the first example of divine
+support for them. (2) At Elim they found water and shade and here God
+gave them the manna from heaven and the quail at eventide. Thus again
+Jehovah demonstrated his purpose to provide for their needs while
+wandering through the wilderness. This food was supplied to them
+continuously until they reached Canaan forty years later. (3) Under
+the leadership of the cloud, which during all the forty years of
+wilderness wandering, was their guide, they next encamped at Rephidim
+where there was no water at all. Here Moses by the command of God
+smote a rock and caused them to drink of a fountain thus opened for
+them. This rock is a suggestive type of Christ.
+
+It was here also that they encountered and defeated the Amalekites, a
+tribe of Edomites, who still kept up the enmity of Esau their father
+against Jacob. Here also Jethro, Moses' father-in-law came to them
+bringing Moses wife and sons. Upon Jethro's advice the people were
+thoroughly organized. From Rephidim they came to Mount Sinai where
+they encamped for a whole year.
+
+Lessons of the Period. The lessons of this period might be divided
+into two classes. (1) Those of special value to the Hebrews themselves
+and lessons needed just then. (2) Those valuable for all time and all
+people. Among those of the first class, the following are worthy of
+record: (1) The authority of Moses was confirmed and the people were
+made ready for his teachings and leadership. (2) They were established
+in the popular belief in the goodness and power of Jehovah their God.
+Of the second and more general lessons, the following are highly
+important: (1) There is no chance in God's universe, but even the
+apparently unimportant events serve his purposes. (2) No human power
+whether of king or peasant or of nation can prevent the accomplishment
+of God's purposes. (3) Those who resist his power are overthrown as
+were the Egyptians, and those who act according to the divine will are
+elevated just as were the Israelites. (4) It is dangerous to oppose or
+harm God's people. He will avenge them. (5) Ample provisions are
+assured to those who will submit to divine leadership.
+
+For Study and discussion. (1) The number of Hebrews that entered Egypt
+with Jacob, and the number that made the Exodus with Moses. (2) The
+Biblical story of their suffering while there, including the added
+burdens when Moses requested that they be allowed to go out to Egypt.
+(3) The birth, preservation and education of Moses. (4) Moses' forty
+years of wilderness training, its advantages and dangers. (5) The
+divine and human elements in Moses' call to be the deliverer. (6) The
+plagues, (a) the description of each, (b) the appropriateness and
+religious significance of each, (c) those imitated by Egyptian
+magicians, (d) those in which the Egyptians suffered and Israel did
+not. (7) The stubbornness of Pharaoh and his attempted compromises.
+(8) The miracles of this period other than the plagues. (9) God's
+provision and care for his people. (10) The murmurings of Israel. (11)
+The religious conditions of the times. (12) The geography of the
+country.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter VI.
+
+From Sinai to Kadesh.
+
+Ex. 20-Num. 14
+
+Mount Sinai. There are differences of opinion concerning the location
+of this mountain. It is sometimes called Horeb (Ex. 3:1; 17:6. etc.).
+All the Old Testament references to it clearly indicate that it was in
+the vicinity of Edom and connect it with Mt. Seir (Deut. 33:3; Judg.
+5:4-5). Several points have been put forward as the probable site, but
+there can not now be any certainty as to the exact location. All the
+evidence both of the scripture and of the discoveries of
+archaeologists seem to point to one of the southwestern spurs of Mt.
+Seir as the sacred mountain. The differences of opinion as to location
+do not affect the historical reality of the mountain nor the certainty
+that at its base there took place the most important event in the
+history of the Hebrew people.
+
+The Sinaitic Covenant. At the foot of Sinai and in the midst of
+grandly impressive manifestations of Jehovah, Israel entered into
+solemn covenant relations with Him. It was a covenant of blood  and
+was the most  sacred and inviolable ceremony known to the ancient
+peoples. Half of the  blood was sprinkled on the alter and half upon
+the people, thus signifying that all had consented to the terms of the
+covenant. In this covenant Israel is obligated to loyalty, service and
+worship, while Jehovah is to continue to protect and deliver them.
+This covenant is commonly called "The Law of Moses." All the rest of
+the Old Testament is a development of this fundamental law and shows
+the application of it in the experience of Israel.
+
+The Purpose of the Mosaic Law. It should be observed that the rewards
+and punishments of this law were mainly confined to this life. Instead
+of leading them to believe that outward obedience to it would bring
+personal salvation and, therefore, instead of superseding the plan of
+salvation through a redeemer, that had been announced to Adam and Eve,
+and confirmed in the covenant with Abraham, it pointed to the Savior.
+The sacrifices foreshadowed the substitution of the Lamb of God as a
+means of their deliverance for sin and its punishment.
+
+There are probably two purposes in promulgating this law. (1) To
+preserve the Israelites as a separate and peculiar people. To the weld
+the scattered fugitives from Egypt into a nation, distinct from other
+nations, required laws that would make them different in customs,
+religion and government. (2) A second purpose was to provide
+additional spiritual light, that they might know the way of salvation
+more perfectly.
+
+The Several Parts of the Law. On the whole the law contains three
+parts. (1) _The Law of Duty_. This is given in the form of ten
+commandments (Ex. ch. 20) and relates to individual obligations, (a)
+The first four define one's obligations to God. (b) The fifth defines
+our relation to parents, (c) The last five define our relation to the
+other members of society. These ten words define religion in terms of
+life and deed as well as worship. They reach the very highest standard
+and, in the last command, trace crime back to the motive even to the
+thought in the mind of man. They point out duties arising out of the
+unchangeable distinctions of right and wrong.
+
+(2) _The law of Mercy_. This law is found in the instructions
+concerning the priesthood and the sacrifices. Through these were seen;
+(a) the need of an atonement for the sinner's guilt; (b) the need of
+inward cleansing on the part of all; (c) the redemption of the
+forfeited life of the sinner by another life being substituted in its
+stead and only by that means; (d) the fact that God would punish
+wrong-doing and reward righteousness. This is also called "The Law of
+Holiness" or "The Ceremonial Law" and was intended to show Israel
+man's sinfulness and how a sinful people could approach a holy God and
+themselves become holy. It, therefore, deals with such matters as
+personal chastity, unlawful marriages and general social purity and
+the religious behavior by which they were to be absolved from all
+impurity and symbolically to be made pure again.
+
+(3) The Law  of Justice. This is composed of miscellaneous civil,
+criminal, humane and sanitary laws, calculated to insure right
+treatment of one another and thus promote the highest happiness of
+all: (a) There was to be kindness and justice to each other including
+slaves, and also to domestic animals; This is beautifully shown in the
+provisions for the treatment of the poor, the aged and the afflicted;
+(b) The rights of property were to be sacredly regarded and all
+violations of such rights severely punished as in the case of fraud or
+theft; (c) Laws of sanitation and health guarded the imprudent against
+the contraction of disease and protected the wicked or careless
+against its spread and thereby saved Israel from epidemics of
+malignant disease. Thus the right of the innocent and helpless were
+insured; (d) The sanctity of the home and of personal virtue was held
+inviolable and every transgressor, such as the man who should commit
+adultery with another man's wife, was put to death; (e) Life was to be
+sacred. No man being able to give it was to take it from another and
+so the murderer was to pay the penalty by giving his life.
+
+These laws were so amplified as to meet every demand of the domestic,
+social, civic and industrial relations of the nation. There could
+hardly be designed a happier life than the proper observance of all
+these laws would have brought to Israel. This legislation reached its
+noblest expression in the law of the neighbor: "Thou shall love thy
+neighbor as thyself" (Lev. 19:18). It is the final word in all right
+relation to others.
+
+The Journey to Kadesh-Barnea. After camping before Sinai a little more
+than a year, during which tune they received the law and were
+gradually organized into a nation, the cloud by which they were always
+led from the time of their departure to their entrance to Canaan,
+arose from the tabernacle and set forward. It led them by a way that
+we cannot now trace but which Moses says was eleven days' journey from
+the sacred mountain. (Dt. 1:2).
+
+A few notable events of this journey are recorded. (1) The fire of
+Jehovah that burned in the camp because of their murmuring. (2) The
+appointing  of seventy elders to share with Moses the burden of the
+people. (3) The sending of the quails and the destruction of those
+that lusted. (4) Miriam, the sister of Moses, was smitten with leprosy
+because with Aaron she rebelled against Moses and spoke
+disrespectfully of him.
+
+The Twelve Spies. From Kadesh Moses sent out twelve men who should
+investigate the condition of Canaan. These men agreed that it was an
+attractive and well favored land. They brought back evidences of its
+fruitfulness. Only two of them, believed they could conquer it. The
+People yielded to the opinions of the majority and refused to attempt
+to enter Canaan and even worse they openly resolved to return to
+Egypt. For this disbelief and open rebellion they were sentenced to
+wander forty years in the wilderness and all of them who were above
+twenty years old except Joshua and Caleb were not only doomed not to
+be allowed to enter this promised land but were to die in the
+wilderness.
+
+Lessons of the Period. The more important truths taught by the records
+of this period may be divided into three groups. (1) Those about man
+and his nature: (a) He is sinful, his whole nature is out of proper
+attitude toward God and is a fountain of evil; (b) He is, therefore,
+in need of redemption and cannot have the benefit of worship to God
+without it; (c) He owes obedience to God. (2) There are lessons about
+God: (a) He is shown to be a Holy God. who hates and punishes sin; (b)
+He is represented as a God of mercy and forgiveness; (c) He is seen as
+one of power and might, able to carry forward his plans and to change
+the whole destiny of a people. (3) There is a many sided view of
+redemption: (a) It is based on blood; The victim must shed its blood
+before redemption can come; (b) It is by Institution as is attested by
+all the sacrifices; (c) It is by imputation or the putting of one's
+sins upon the victim; (d) It is by death and that of an innocent
+creature. In all of this there is a revelation of Christ who puts away
+sin and brings the sinner into favor with God.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The awe-inspiring ways by which Jehovah
+made known his presence on Sinai. (2) The several things Israel
+covenanted to do. (3) The worship of the golden calf and the breaking
+of the tables of stone. (4) The three great divisions of the law. (5)
+The law of mercy or of Holiness, what it teaches, and its purpose. (6)
+Catalogue the different laws of justice according to the outline
+suggested above or make a new outline and catalogue them. (7) The
+present day conditions that could be met and changed for good by an
+application of these laws. (8) The tabernacle and its material. (9)
+The different kinds of offering, learn what was offered and how and by
+whom. (10) The different scared occasions, feasts, holidays, etc. (11)
+The different occasions of rebellion on the part of the people and
+what resulted. (12) The spirit of Moses as seen in his talks to the
+people and in his prayers to God. (13) The rebellion of Miriam and
+Aaron against Moses. (14) The results of wrong influences or reports
+as seen in the case of the spies. (15) The rewards of righteousness as
+seen in the entire period.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter VII.
+
+From Kadesh to the Death of Moses.
+
+Num. 14-Dt. 34.
+
+The Pathos of the Forty Years. The stories of this period have running
+through them an element of pathos arising especially from two sources.
+(1) Perhaps the experiences of Moses are most sorrowful. That he
+should now, after faithfully bringing this people to the very border
+of the land which they sought, be compelled to spend forty monotonous
+years in this bare and uninteresting desert must have  been  a
+disappointment  very heavy to  bear. During these wanderings he buried
+Miriam, his sister, and Aaron, his brother and helper. He was often
+complained of by the people he was trying to help, and because of it
+was led to sin in such a way as to cause God to refuse him the
+privilege of entering Canaan. It was necessary for him to appoint his
+successor and himself be buried in these lands. He was compelled to
+renumber the people to find that all but two of those who were above
+twenty when they left Egypt had perished. (2) Surely the experience of
+the people of Israel during these years is sufficient to arouse a
+feeling of pity. Forty years of suffering and unhappiness and the loss
+of all opportunity to enter Canaan by those who fell in the wilderness
+beclouds the whole story.
+
+The Events of the Forty Years' Wandering. It is now impossible to
+trace exactly any except the latter portion of their journeyings. It
+is clear that they went from place to place, not of course marching
+continuously each day, but changing their location as often at least
+as the requirements of pasturage demanded. Of the early portion of
+these years we know but little. They seemed to have remained a long
+while at Kadesh (Dt. 1:45) and indeed may have made it a sort of
+headquarters. The story of the rebellion of Konah with the consequent
+punishment, and the budding of Aarons rod by which the appointment of
+the family of Aaron to the priesthood was attested are the important
+incidents of this period.
+
+Final Scenes at Kadesh. After about thirty-eight years had elapsed
+(Dt. 2:14), and the period of wandering was nearly at an end, Israel
+is again found at Kadesh (Num. 20:11) on the borders of Edom where the
+spies had been sent out and they made their calamitous blunder. Here
+at this time happened three important events; (1) Miriam died and was
+buried, (2) Moses smote the rock and brought forth water, but because
+he smote it instead of speaking to it Jehovah was angry with him and
+told him he should not enter the land of promise. (3) Moses asked
+permission of the King of Edom to pass peaceably through his land and
+was refused. They were, therefore, compelled to take a long journey
+around Edom to reach there own land.
+
+From Kadesh to the Jordan. When they were refused passage through the
+land of the Edomites, their kinsmen, (Num. 20:14-21), the Hebrews made
+a long journey around. On this journey occurred three important
+events. (1) The death of Aaron in Mount Hor (Num. 20:22-29). (2) The
+defeat of the King of South Canaan and the laying waste of his country
+to Hormah where they had been routed nearly forty years ago. (3) The
+sending of the fiery serpents and the brazen serpent as a remedy. They
+also passed the country of Moab and came finally to the river Arnan
+(Num. 21:13), which is the boundary between Moab and the Amorites.
+Here they came into conflict with Sihon the King of the Amorites, whom
+they defeated, and possessed his land. (Num. 21:23-24). The overcoming
+of this strong and ancient people brought Israel into contact with Og,
+king of Bashan, who was himself a giant and whose country was far more
+formidable than that of the Amorites. By defeating him and possessing
+his cities Israel was enabled to pass on and come to the plains of
+Moab beyond Jordan at Jericho. In Psalms 135 and 136, written hundreds
+of years later, the victory over Sihon and Og and the overthrow of
+Pharaoh are dwelt on together in such a way as to show that their
+conquest was regarded as an achievement worthy to rank along side of
+that of their deliverance from the power of Egypt.
+
+The Prophecies of Balaam. (Num. Chaps. 22-24). The Moabites were
+greatly distressed about the settlement of the victorious Hebrews in
+the region just north of them and feared lest they should suffer the
+same fate as Shihon and Og. Balak, the King of Moab, had beard of
+Balaam, a famous soothsayer or wise prophet of Chaldea, whose curses
+and blessings were reported to carry with them extraordinary effects.
+He sought at any cost to have him cripple Israel by placing a curse
+upon them. But instead of cursing Israel and blessing the Moabites, he
+revealed how wonderfully Israel was blessed Of God and how a scepter
+would rise out of Israel and smite and destroy Moab.
+
+This strange man Balaam seems to have had the gift of prophecy without
+its grace. He had the knowledge of future events but sought to use it
+for his own advantage instead of for the glory of God. He was a
+covetous, money-loving prophet and sought the rewards offered by
+Balak. He tried repeatedly to find some way by which he could speak
+good for Moab and thereby earn the much desired fee. On the other hand
+he was afraid to speak against Israel lest the curse should recoil on
+him. No other word seems to describe his course except to say that he
+was compelled by Jehovah to speak to Israel's advantage and to predict
+her future greatness. His language fittingly describes the material
+splendor and the splendid victories and reign of David. The spirit of
+Israel described is that of the united kingdom standing at the zenith
+of its power. In a beautiful way also he pointed to the Messiah who
+should put all enemies under his feet.
+
+He may have secured his reward, however, in another way. He seems to
+have led Balak to entice Israel, through pretensions of friendship, to
+partake in the idolatrous and impure festivals of the Moabites (Num.
+25:1-5; 31:15-16; Rev. 2:14). These and other acts of their own
+brought down upon Israel the curse of heaven and made them the subject
+of such calamites as Balaam could not himself pronounce against them.
+By suggesting this course to Balak, he may have obtained the coveted
+pay without directly disobeying God. This whole story would seem to
+imply that the Hebrew historians did not believe that divine relations
+were limited to seers and prophets of their own race.
+
+The Last Acts of Moses. Events are now transpiring in rapid succession
+and the story hastens to the close of the career of Moses, the great
+leader prophet, priest and judge of Israel. Several matters are worthy
+of study: (1) The sending of an expedition to destroy the Midianites.
+(2) The final numbering of the people preparatory to their entrance
+into Canaan. (3) The appointing of Joshua as his successor. (4) The
+settlement of the two and a half tribes on the east side of Jordan.
+(5) The appointment of the cities of refuge. (8) The delivery of a
+farewell address, or of farewell addresses.
+
+The Last Scene on Moab. There were far too many of the Israelites to
+hear his voice and he probably gathered together the princes and
+elders who listened to him from day to day, each of whom went home and
+repeated to his own people what he had heard from their inspired
+leader. In these addresses Moses recounted their wanderings and
+Jehovah's goodness to them. He reminded them of all that God had
+commanded them in his law and gave such new instructions and
+interpretations as would be needed in the new conditions that they
+would meet on coming into the Promised Land. He painted in frightful
+colors the fearful doom that would befall the disobedient and
+eloquently described the blessing of loyalty to God. After being
+called of God to depart into the mountains and die, he pronounced in
+one of the most beautiful passages in all the scripture, his farewell
+blessing upon each of the tribes.
+
+And how solemn must have been the occasion. They are listening for the
+last time to his voice. With what veneration they must have gazed on
+him. He it was that Jochebed with loving hands had laid in the
+bulrushes when 120 years ago Pharaoh had persecuted them. He was the
+man that had so nobly chosen to suffer affliction with the people of
+God instead of the attractions of Egypt. His eyes under the shadow of
+Horeb had looked on the burning bush. His hand had stretched out over
+Egypt and overwhelmed it with the plagues. His was the face that had
+reflected the divine glory of the mount after forty days of fellowship
+with Jehovah, during which he received the substance of the law. That
+was the faithful and tried man that had often been wrongly accused,
+that had meekly borne so many trials, that had guided the people so
+faithfully, and advised them so wisely, and had refused honors himself
+because he loved them so well. How they must have hung on those last
+words! And the echo of his last words had hardly died away until his
+spirit had been called away and unseen hands had laid his dust in an
+unknown tomb.
+
+The Significance of the Work of Moses. Humanly speaking, he explains
+the great difference between the Hebrews and the people kindred to
+them. He accounts for their development from a company of disheartened
+slaves, and from the careless habits of wandering tribes into a
+conquering nation, made irresistible by its belief in the guidance of
+Jehovah. Humanly speaking, he was the creator of Israel. (1) He was a
+_leader_ and as such heartened and disciplined them. (2) He was a
+_prophet_ and as such taught them ideals of social justice, purity and
+honor. (3) He was a _lawgiver_ and as such furnished them with civil,
+sanitary, social and religious laws that channeled them into a sober,
+healthy, moral, and right-minded people. (4) He was the _founder of a
+religion_ and as such led them into a real loyalty to Jehovah as their
+God and gave them such a conception of the divine character and
+requirements as to stimulate in them a growth in goodness.
+
+Lessons of the Period. The student will readily collect for himself
+lessons that have been brought to his attention. The following,
+however, should not fail of consideration: (1) God's law is
+inflexible. It is of universal operation and can not be evaded or
+revoked. Even the best men must suffer if they violate it as was the
+case of Moses. (2) To rebel against God's appointed leaders and to
+speak disrespectfully of them will subject one to the outpouring of
+divine wrath. (3) God never forgets his covenants as seen In the case
+of his refusal to give to Israel the land of Edom and of Ammon. (4)
+That God decides the fate of armies in battle and is therefore the God
+of nations as well as individuals. (5) Early hardships often fit us
+for a more glorious destiny later.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The rebellion of Korah. (2) The story of
+Balak and Balaam and the present day truth which it suggests or the
+problems of today to which it is applicable. (3) The story of the
+budding of Aaron's rod. (4) The sin of Moses because of which he was
+not allowed to enter Canaan. Find every reference to it. (5) The
+different victories of Israel recorded in the period. (6) The fiery
+serpents and serpent of brass. (7) The cities of refuge, their names,
+location, purpose and the lessons for today to be drawn from their
+use. (8) The principal events of Israel's past history mentioned in
+Dt. chs. 1-4, and find where in previous books each is recorded. (9)
+From Dt. chs. 27-28 list the curses and blessings, showing the sin and
+its penalty and the blessing and that for which it is promised. (10)
+The farewell blessing of Moses on the tribes (Dt. ch. 33). List the
+promises to each. (11) The death of Moses (Dt. chs. 32 and 34). (12)
+The incidents of the period that have in them a miraculous element.
+(13) Other prominent leaders besides Moses, Aaron and Joshua. (14) The
+nations mentioned with whom the Hebrews had contact. (15) The
+geography of the places and nations noticed in this period.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter VIII.
+
+Joshua's Conquest.
+
+Joshua.
+
+The Facts of History Recorded. The history recorded in this period
+follows closely upon and completes the story of the deliverance begun
+in the Exodus. But for the sin of Israel in believing the evil spies
+and turning back into the wilderness, none of the events of the last
+twenty-one chapters of Numbers and none of those found in Deuteronomy
+would have occurred and Joshua would have followed Exodus and have
+completed the story of Israel's deliverance out of Egypt into Canaan.
+As it is, this history follows close upon that of Deuteronomy. Joshua,
+who had been duly chosen and set apart for the work, took command of
+the hosts as soon as Moses died. He was trained in the school of Moses
+and exhibited the same devotion to Jehovah and the same dependence
+upon His guidance.
+
+The Story Naturally Falls Into Three Parts. (1) The conquest of
+Canaan, (Chs. 1-12). In this section we have the story of the crossing
+of the Jordan, fall of Jericho and the conquest of the land both south
+and north. (2) The division of the territory of Canaan (Chs. 13-22).
+In this section we have the assignment of the territory of Canaan, the
+cities of Refuge, the cities of Levites and the return of the two and
+half tribes to the east of the Jordan. (3) Joshua's last counsel and
+death (Chs. 23-24), in which we have his exhortations to fidelity and
+farewell address and death.
+
+While the war itself probably did not continue but seven years, the
+entire period was not less than twenty-five and may have been as much
+as fifty-one years. The period marks a new era in Biblical history.
+Instead of the experiences of Nomadic or semi-Nomadic tribes, a people
+with a fixed abode and with a growing body of customs and institutions
+is described.
+
+The Land of Canaan. It is well to consider at least three things
+concerning this little, yet wonderful country. (1) _Its geography_. It
+is about four hundred miles long and from seventy-five to one hundred
+miles wide and is made up of plains, valleys, plateaus, gorges and
+mountains fashioned together in wonderful variety. There are many
+small bodies of land capable of supporting a group of people and yet
+so secluded as to allow them to develop their own individuality and
+become independent. Every traveler between Egypt and Babylonia must
+pass through Palestine which thereby became the bridge for the
+civilization and commerce of tie world. Here the Hebrew could easily
+keep in touch with the world events of his day. Later it became the
+gateway of travel from east to west. The territory naturally falls
+into three divisions: (a) Judah or Judea which is in the southern
+portion and about seventy-five miles long, (b) Ephraim or Samaria
+occupying the center of the country, (c) Galilee occupying the
+northern portion. Along the entire coast line there is a continuous
+coast plain. There are many mountains, the most important being
+Hermon, Carmel and Gerizim.
+
+(2) _Its inhabitants and the nations surrounding it_. That the
+population was very dense is indicated by the mention of about three
+hundred cities and towns a large number of which have been identified.
+While there were many war-like people crowded into Palestine, seven,
+the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, the
+Jebusites, the Amorites and the Canaanites, were the most important.
+The Canaanites, who had been there about six centuries, and the
+Amorites, who had lived there about ten centuries, were the two
+peoples that furnished greatest resistance to Israel's occupancy of
+the country. They were virtually one people.
+
+Around Palestine were many kingdoms, some large and strong, some small
+and weak. Among the more important were the Philistines, west of
+Judah, the Phoenician kingdoms on the north, Arameans or Syrians on
+the northeast, and on the east and southeast, the Ammonites, Moabites
+and Edomites, the last three being kinsmen of the Hebrews.
+
+(3) _Conditions favorable to its conquest_. Several circumstances
+conspired to make it a suitable time for the Hebrews to enter Canaan:
+(a) Egypt had crushed the Hittites and devastated their land; (b)
+Northern hordes from and through Syria had broken the power of Egypt
+and the Hittites and had also crushed the Canaanites; (c) Assyria had
+increased her borders to the coasts of Phoenicia and was feared by all
+other peoples; (d) Babylonia was not strong enough to displace Assyria
+as an Asiatic power but strong enough to dispute her supremacy; (e)
+For two hundred years, therefore, their weakness together with that of
+Egypt and the Hittites gave the Hebrews ample time to develop and grow
+strong.
+
+The Crossing of the Jordan and the Fall of Jericho. To the Hebrews
+these two incidents have always been of first importance. As the two
+great events through which they gained entrance to their permanent
+home, they have been given a place in Hebrew literature almost equal
+to that of their deliverance from Egyptian bondage. The divine share
+in these great accomplishments was fully recognized. He it was who
+caused the waters of Jordan to separate and He it was who threw down
+the walls of Jericho. Not only did Jericho occupy a strategic
+position, being somewhat apart from other Canaanite cities, but the
+marvelous manner of its fall both encouraged the Hebrews to expect
+complete victory and also caused the Canaanites to fear them and
+expect defeat.
+
+The Complete Conquest of Canaan. The conquest was a sort of whirlwind
+campaign that crushed the active and dangerous opposition of the
+Canaanites, the complete occupancy being accomplished by a piecemeal
+process of subduing one after another of the little cities and
+independent tribes. The campaign was well planned. The Jordan was
+crossed, Jericho was taken and then by pushing forward for the heart
+of the land, Ai was overcome and in a short time Joshua was in the
+center of the land, ready to strike either way. With his central camp
+established at Gilgal (5:10; 9:6) and the forces of Canaan divided,
+Joshua could advance by two lines of invasion. Whether he made
+simultaneous campaigns in different directions is not certain, but he
+seems first to have turned his attention to the southern territory and
+then to have completed his conquest by an invasion of the northern
+districts. After bending before this storm the Canaanites still held
+possession of the land and the piecemeal process of subjugation began.
+It was not all accomplished by the sword but aided by the peaceful
+measures of inter-marriage and treaties with friendly neighbors.
+Israel contended against a far superior civilization but finally won
+because the religious as well as the civil and social life was
+involved.
+
+The Cruelty to the Canannites. Stress has commonly been laid on the
+cruelty to the Canaanites and upon their being driven out of their
+land when it should have been put upon their character where the
+Scripture puts it. This is a waste of false sympathy. The Scripture
+always speaks of the driving out of the Canaanites as a punishment for
+their sins (Dt, 9:4-5; Lev. 18:24-25). Some of the abominations which
+they practiced are described in Lev. 18:21-30 and Dt. 12:30-32. These
+abominations were practiced in the name of religion and were so
+shocking that one shudders to read the description.
+
+Everything evil was worshiped. The chief god was Baal, the sun, who
+was worshiped at different places under different names, but
+everywhere his worship was fierce and cruel. His consort Ashtaroth,
+the Babylonian goddess Istar, the goddess of love, worshiped as the
+morning star, Venus, fostered in her worship abominations that are
+almost inconceivable in our times. It was a worship of impurity and
+could not be cured by ordinary means. God had borne with it for
+hundreds of years. Their destruction was therefore justifiable just as
+was that of the old world and the Jews were simply God's instruments
+just as were the waters of the flood or the fire and brimstone in the
+case of Sodom and Gomorrah.
+
+God was planning to begin, a new nation, to start a new civilization
+and by using this method of punishment for the Canaanites he impressed
+the Hebrews in a most striking way with the consequences of forsaking
+worship of the true God. It was a new thing in the world to have all
+idolatrous symbols destroyed and to worship an unseen God and yet
+Joshua constantly represented to them that all the evils they had
+inflicted upon the Canaanites, and greater evils, would be sent upon
+them if they should become idolaters. Little, therefore, need be said
+of the cruelty of the Hebrews nor of the suffering of the Canaanites.
+The Hebrews were the instrument of God and the Canaanites were reaping
+what they had sown.
+
+The Significance of the War Against the Canannites. Of all the wars
+recorded in human history this was one of the greatest, if not the
+greatest of all. None was ever fought for a more noble purpose and
+none has accomplished greater ends. The fate of the world was in the
+balance.   Old civilizations on account of their wickedness, were to
+soon fall and this series of conflicts was to decide whether a new
+civilization with a pure and holy purpose to serve God could arise in
+their midst. It was, therefore, a war (1) _For purification_. The
+individual, the temple and the home must all be pure. (2) _For civil
+liberty_. Israel was now, under God, to govern herself and thereby to
+give the world a pattern of government as God's free nation. (3) _For
+religious liberty_. Idolatry, vice and superstition were everywhere
+and the people must be free to worship the one true God and Creator of
+all. (4) _For the whole world_. Israel was to be a blessing to all
+nations. Out of her and out of this land was to come Christ, her son,
+who should save the nations. The war was, therefore, for us as well as
+for them.
+
+The Character and Work of Joshua. The name Joshua in the Old Testament
+is equivalent to Jesus in the New (Heb. 4:8). His character and work
+were well adapted to his age and he therefore made a deep impression
+upon this formative period of Israel's history. He was fully prepared
+for the work of the conquest by his association with Moses and by such
+events as the defeat of Amalek which he accomplished by divine help
+(Ex.  17:10-16). With all he had been called of God and set apart for
+the work of subjugating the Canaanites. As a soldier and commander, he
+ranks among the first of the world. He is resourceful, brave,
+straightforward, fertile in strategy, and quick to strike (1:10-11;
+2:1 etc.). In the councils of peace he was wise and generous. He
+displayed statesmanship of the highest order in mapping out the
+boundaries of the tribes and thus preparing the land for a permanent
+occupancy of the Hebrews. In the matter of religion he was actuated by
+a spirit of implicit obedience to God's authority. He combined in his
+nature both courage and gentleness and exhibited in his dealings the
+disposition of both the lion and the lamb. His dying charge is full of
+earnestness and devotion. As a type of Christ he led the people to the
+"rest" of Canaan, though not to the rest of the gospel which
+"remaineth to the people of God." A void still remained and they still
+had to look forward. He led them to victory over their enemies and
+became their advocate when they sinned and met defeat.
+
+Lessons of the Period. Among many lessons suggested by this book the
+following should be considered and the student asked to suggest
+others. (1) God is at war with sin: (a) He thrusts out the Canaanites
+because of their sins; (b) He allows the defeat of Israel at Ai
+because sin was among them; (c) He allows Achan put to death because
+of it. He is, therefore, against all sin, personal, social and civic
+or national. (2) Religious victory and entrance upon spiritual rest is
+accomplished through a leader or commander and through a divine power,
+not through a law giver and by the works of the law. It was not Moses,
+the lawgiver, through whom they entered and not by their own strength.
+(3) God keeps his covenants in spite of all the weakness of man. (4)
+God decides the issues of battles and of wars with a view to the final
+on-going of his kingdom. Only God and not the relative strength or
+preparedness of the contending armies can forecast the final issues of
+war. (5) The fact that God is for one does not preclude the use of
+strategy and discretionary methods. (6) The failure or sin of one man
+may defeat a whole cause and that in spite of the faithful efforts of
+many others. (7) What is a just severity to some is often a great
+mercy to others. The destruction of the Canaanites was a severe
+penalty for their sins, but it was an unspeakable blessing to all the
+future ages because by it a true faith and a pure worship was
+preserved.
+
+For Study and  Discussion. (1) Each of the lessons suggested  above.
+Find a basis either in incident or teaching for each. (2) The
+geography of the country with the principal cities mentioned. (3) The
+several tribes of people mentioned in the narrative. (4) The
+providential conditions favorable to the conquest just at that time.
+(5) The cruelties of the Israelites to their enemies. Select examples
+and discuss each. (6) The significance of the war. (7) The character
+and work of Joshua. Point out incidents or acts that show elements of
+greatness and weakness in his character; also estimate the value of
+his work. (8) The cooperation of the two and a half tribes in these
+wars. (9) The several battles described. List them and decide what
+contributed to the success or failure of Israel in each case. (10) The
+story of the fall of Jericho. (11) The sin of Achan, its results, its
+discovery and punishment. (12) The story of the Gibeonites, their
+stratagem, its embarrassment to Joshua and consequent slavery to them.
+(13) The portion of land allotted to each tribe and how it was
+secured. (14) The miraculous element running through the narrative.
+List and discuss each incident that tends to show or makes claim of
+such miraculous element. (15) The place of prayer and worship in the
+hook. Give incidents. (16) The element that is figurative or
+illustrative of truth revealed in New Testament times.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter IX.
+
+The Judges.
+
+Judges 1; 1 Sam. 7.
+
+The Characteristics of the Times. This is a period of transition for
+Israel Nothing was quite certain, and "every man did that which was
+right in his own eyes" (17:6). In consequence of this there was lack
+of organization, cooperation or leadership. While we do not have all
+the history covered by the period and while we do not easily
+understand or explain its events, it is clear that things did not run
+smoothly. In Judges 2:16-19 the author gives a vivid picture of the
+conditions and characteristics of the time. The problems of the times
+may be outlined as follows: (1) _Political problems_. These arose, (a)
+because of the isolated conditions of the tribes, (b) because of their
+tribal government which lacked the bond of unity of former times, (c)
+because of the strength and opposition of the Canaanites. (2) _Social
+problems_. These grew out of: (a) the adoption of Canaanite customs
+and manner of life, (b) the intermarriage of the Jews with the new
+people. (3) _Religious Problems_. The source of these problems arose
+from two directions, (a) Baal worship ministered to their lusts and
+was therefore a snare to them, (b) the religion of Israel required
+purity and was, therefore, counted a burden. The problems of the times
+of peace were greater than those in the times of war.
+
+The Judges. Now that there was no central stable government and no
+hereditary rulers the people accepted from time to time as their
+rulers certain military leaders whom God raised up and who, by their
+prowess, delivered them from the yoke of foreign oppression. It was,
+therefore, a period of personal efforts some of which are preserved
+for us in this portion of scripture. Fifteen Judges are named counting
+Eli and Samuel, who are by some not so named, but we know very little
+of any except six of the military judges and Eli and Samuel. These six
+are brought into prominence because of as many invasions by other
+nations as follows. (1) The Mesopotamians came down from the northeast
+and oppressed Israel until Othniel, Caleb's nephew, was raised up to
+deliver them. (2) The invasion of the Moabites and the deliverance
+through Ehud. (3) The oppression of the Canaanites, who came down from
+the north, was thrown off through the leadership of Deborah assisted
+by Barak. (4) The Midianites came in from the east and greatly
+oppressed Israel until Gideon defeated and destroyed these bold
+oppressors. (5) The invasion of the Ammonites and Israel's deliverance
+through Jephthah. (6) The Philistines were the next successful enemies
+of Israel and were enabled to do great harm to Israel until Samson
+arose and overthrew their power.
+
+Eli  and Samuel differed widely from the other judges and on that
+account are sometimes not counted among them. Eli was a good but weak
+man. His weakness in the control of his children ruined them and
+brought him to sorrow and also caused a severe defeat for Israel.
+
+Samuel was the last of the judges and was also a priest and prophet.
+He is one of the outstanding Old Testament characters. Abraham founded
+the Hebrew race; Joseph saved them from famine; Moses gave them a home
+and Samuel organized them into a great kingdom which led to their
+glory. His birth was in answer to prayer and as judge or deliverer he
+won his most signal victory, that against the Philistines, by means of
+prayer. He founded schools for the instruction of young prophets at
+Gilgal. Bethel, Mizpeh and Ramah. In this he perhaps rendered his most
+valuable and most lasting service. These schools gave a great impetus
+to prophecy. After this time prophecy and prophets had a vital and
+permanent place in the life of the nation. Even kings had to consult
+them for instructions from God.
+
+Ruth the Moabite. In contrast with the many stories of idolatry and
+sin of the times and especially in contrast with the story of the
+idolatry of Micah and the crime of Gibeah found in the last chapters
+of Judges, we have the beautiful little story of Ruth, the Moabite.
+Others had turned away from Jehovah the true God to false gods, but
+she turned from the false gods and received the true God.
+
+Other Nations. Of the  condition  of the other nations of this period
+we are left largely to the monuments, but much has been discovered
+that throws light on the general world conditions. The following might
+be noted here. (1) _Egypt_. After the Exodus of Israel Egypt seems to
+have enjoyed several centuries of great prosperity during which the
+country was adorned with wonderful buildings, her religion prospered,
+her people were famous for their learning and, through colonization
+projects, she carried her civilization to many other climes. (2)
+_Assyria_ was now a growing empire and destined to become, ere long,
+one of the most powerful of all. (3) _Babylonia_ was now weak and
+generally at a disadvantage in contests with other nations. (4) _The
+Elamites_ also became a people of considerable influence and at least
+on different occasions invaded Babylonia. (5) _Mesopotamia_, before
+being absorbed by Assyria was a powerful nation and ravaged Syria and
+Palestine. (6) _Phoenicia_ was a country of great commercial progress
+with Tyre and Sidon as centers of great influence. (7) _Greece_. The
+most interesting of all the countries that began to show their
+strength during that period is Greece. The inhabitants were wonderful
+in physical energy, in war and conquest, in discovery and in capacity
+for education. They were fond of pleasure and had great capacity for
+the tasks of society, government, and religion. They contrived a
+religious system that was conspicuous for the absence of the great
+priestly class of the eastern systems of religion. However, it left
+the morally corrupt nature of man untouched and, therefore, did not
+contribute anything to the cause of pure religion.
+
+Outline of The Narrative. The Scripture narrative falls into the
+following well-defined divisions: (1) An introduction or the condition
+in Palestine at the beginning of the period, Jud. 1:1-3:6. (2) The
+Judges and their work, Jud. 3:1:1-3:6. (2) The Judges and their work,
+(Jud. 3:7-16 end). (3) Micah's idolatry, Jud. Chs. 17-18. (4) The
+crime of Gibeah, Jud. Chs. 19-21. (5) The story of Ruth, Ruth. (6) The
+career of Samuel including the judgeship of Eli, 1 Sam. Chs. 1-7.
+
+Ethical and Religious Standards. Since this is a transitional period
+we may expect great difference of moral and religions standards. Some
+things are stressed far beyond their importance while other matters of
+more consequence are overlooked. The following examples will indicate
+to what extremes they went in some matters. (1) _Some things bad_: (a)
+Murdering a heathen enemy was counted a virtue; (b) It was not a crime
+to steal from a member of another Hebrew tribe; (c) Might was right;
+(d) They would keep any foolish vow to God even though it cost the
+life of one's child as in the case of Jephthah. (2) _Some things
+good_: (a) The marriage relation was held sacred; (b) A covenant was
+held binding and sacred as in the case of the Gibeonites; (c) They
+counted inhospitality a crime. (3) _Some strange inconsistencies_: (a)
+Micah would steal his mother's silver, then rear a family altar to
+Jehovah; (b) Samson would keep his Nazarite vow, preserve his hair
+intact and abstain from wine and unclean food but give himself over to
+lying and to his passions, and selfish inclinations and fail to
+observe the simple laws of justice, mercy and service.
+
+Lessons of the Period. (1) _As to national decay_: (a) It is caused by
+religious apostasy; (b) It evidences itself in religious blindness,
+political folly and social immorality; (c) Its curse results in
+political and social disorder, chaos and ultimate ruin. (2) _As to
+punishment for sin_: (a) He surely sends punishment on the offender
+whether an individual or a nation; (b) His punishment is a matter of
+mercy and is intended to prepare the way for deliverance. (3) _As to
+deliverance_: (a) It never comes until repentance is manifested; (b)
+It is always through a deliverer whom we can not find but whom God
+must raise up for us. (4) From the book of Ruth it is shown that
+circumstances neither make nor mar believers.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The names of the Judges in order with
+the length of time each served or the period of rest after the work of
+each. (2) The enemy each judge had to combat. (3) What each judge
+accomplished against the enemy and what weapon he used-an oxgoad or
+what? (4) The elements of strength and weakness in the character of
+the principal men of the period. (5) The New Testament truths
+illustrated in the life and work of Gideon and Samson. (6) The lessons
+of practical life illustrated by the stories of Jephthah and Deborah.
+(7) The facts of the story of Micah and Gibeah. (8) The career of
+Samuel as found so far. (9) The value of a trusting soul as seen in
+Ruth. (10) The main element in their religion. (11) The condition of
+Israel at the beginning and at the end of this period. (12) The
+subject of good and successful parents with bad and unsuccessful
+children. The importance they attached to the Ark of the Covenant.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter X.
+
+The Reign of Saul.
+
+I Sam. 8-31; I Chron. 10
+
+The Demand for a King. The last period saw one tribe after another
+come to the front and assert itself through some leading man as an
+emergency arose, but now the tribes are to be united into a monarchy
+and this, too, at their own request made in the form of a desire for a
+king. Several things no doubt influenced them to make this request.
+(1) From the days of Joshua there had been no strong national bond.
+They were only held together by the law of Moses and the annual
+assemblages at Shiloh. But the wise reign of Samuel had given an
+enlarged national consciousness and led to a desire for a stable
+government with the largest possible national unity. (2) The failure
+of the sons of Samuel, who had been entrusted with some power and who
+would naturally succeed him, led them to feel that provision for the
+welfare of the nation must be made before the death of Samuel or ruin
+would come. (3) The attitude of the nations around Israel suggested
+the need of a strong government headed by a leader of authority. The
+Philistines and Ammonites had already made incursions into their land
+and threatened at any time to further oppress them. The new
+organization, therefore, seemed necessary as a national protection.
+(4) The faith of Jehovah was threatened. The victories of the
+Philistines would be interpreted to mean that Jehovah was powerless or
+else did not care for his people. This would lead them to turn to
+other gods. Then too they were greatly tempted by the religion of the
+Canaanite to turn from Jehovah. It was, therefore, a religious crisis
+that made it essential that the Hebrews unite and in the name of
+Jehovah over throw the Philistines and establish a nation that would
+rightly represent to all nations Jehovah as the God of their race. (5)
+The nations around them such as Egypt and Assyria with their seats of
+royalty had excited their pride and they were moved with a desire to
+be like their heathen neighbors-a desire which involved disrespect for
+their divine king and want of faith in him.
+
+The Principle of the Kingdom. The folly of the people did not lie in
+their asking for a king to rule over them, but in the spirit of
+forgetfulness of God with which they made the request. Indeed Moses
+had provided for a kingdom and given the law upon which the king was
+to rule (Dt 17:14-20). He was to be unlike other kings. He was not to
+rule according to his own will or that of the people but according to
+the will of Jehovah. He was to be subject to God as was the humblest
+Israelite, and, under his immediate direction, was to rule for the
+good of the people. This was a new principle that showed it self in
+all the future history of Israel. Saul attempted to be like others-to
+assert his own will-and disobeyed God and was deposed while David
+identified himself with God and his purposes and was successful. One
+represent the ideal of the people, the other that of the Scripture.
+
+Saul the First King. He began his career under the most auspicious
+circumstances. His tribe and its location as well as his fine physical
+appearance gave him great advantage. He was enthusiastic and brave,
+and yet in the early days he charms us with his modesty. After he was
+anointed by Samuel and had been made to see the great career opening
+to him he returned to his regular toil until the people were called
+together at Mizpah and proclaimed him king. Samuel supported him with
+his influence and the people gave him allegiance. He was for a while
+subservient to the will of God and greatly prospered. But later he
+became self-willed and failed to see that the nation was God's and not
+his. He developed a spirit of disobedience, perverseness and evil
+conduct that mark him as insane.
+
+Saul's Great Achievements. The oppression of Israel's enemies which in
+part at least made necessary their king had to be dealt with at once.
+In his contest with them Saul had a very successful military career.
+He was successful in the following campaigns: (I) Against the
+Ammonites (I Sam. 11) in which he delivered from ruin the inhabitants
+of Jabesh-Gilead on the east Of Jordan and won the love of all the
+Hebrew people. (2) Against the Philistines (I Sam. 13-14) in which
+Jonathan was the hero. Before the battle he disobeyed the will of God
+by performing the duties of a priest and was told he should lose his
+kingdom on account of it. At the close of the campaign he lost his
+temper and proposed to kill Jonathan, his son, the hero of the day
+because he had unwittingly disobeyed a foolish command. (3) Against
+Moab, Ammon, Edom and Zobah (I Sam. 14:47) of which there are no
+particulars given. (4) Against the Amalekites (I Sam. 15) in which,
+though he defeated Amalek, he disobeyed God in not wholly destroying
+all Amalek and his possessions and thereby lost for the time being
+Samuel's help and finally his kingdom. It was after this battle that
+David was anointed to become king in Saul's stead.
+
+Saul's Decline. From Chapter 16 on the story tells of the rapid
+decline of Saul and of the rise of David to the kingdom. (1) There is
+given the story of the madness of Saul and the introduction of David
+to the court as the king's musician. (2) The campaign against the
+Philistines in which David kills Goliath, the giant that was defying
+Israel, and won great honor from the king. (3) His effort to destroy
+David. During many years he, with bitter jealousy and an insane
+hatred, tried to destroy David who was as constantly delivered by a
+divine providence. Whether on account of sickness or other reason, he
+seems to have had fits of insanity during this period. (4) His last
+battle and death. The Philistines arrayed themselves against Saul.
+With a sense of defeat he tried to get in touch with Samuel, but
+finally met a death in harmony with his life and thus ended one of the
+most melancholy careers of all history. All because of his
+disobedience to God (I Chron. 10:1.1-14).
+
+Lessons of the Period. (1) God adapts his methods to the needs and
+conditions of the people from tribal government to kingdom. (2) A man
+out of harmony with God will certainly fail-Saul. (3) A man in harmony
+with God's plan will succeed no matter how much opposed by
+others-David. (4) God never forgets to punish those who oppress his
+people-Amalekites. (5) The success of God's work does not depend upon
+our attitude toward his will, but our condition when it has succeeded
+does. (6) A righteous man can succeed without doing wrong to do it.
+(7) God's anointed will suffer if they sin. (8) Kindness to
+enemies-David to Saul. (9) The strength of true friendship-Jonathan
+and David.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The condition that led to the
+establishment of the kingdom. (3) Four statements Samuel made to Saul
+and four ways by which he tried to impress him with the responsibility
+to which he was called I Sam. 9:19-10-8. (3) The prophet bands or
+school of prophets. (4) The story of Jonathan's exploits against
+Michmash by Saul and his escape, I Sam. 14. (5) The story of David's
+choice and anointing, I Sam. 16:1-13. (6) The killing of Goliath and
+defeat of the Philistines. I Sam. Ch. 17. (7) Story of Jonathan and
+David, I Sam. 18:1-4; 19:1-7; 20:1-4, 12-17, 41-42; 23:16-18. (8)
+David's wanderings, 21:10-22-5. (9) Compare Saul and David at the time
+of the anointing of each as to their chances of success. (10) David's
+sojourn in Philistia with the experience of embarrassment and
+advantage, I Sam. Chs. 27-28. (11) Saul's last battle and death, (a)
+the appeal to Samuel through the witch, I Sam. Ch. 28, (b) the battle,
+his and his son's death, I Sam. Ch.31.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XI.
+
+The Reign of David.
+
+2 Sam.; 1 Chron. Chs. 11-29; 1 K 1:1-2:11.
+
+His Reign over Judah. The reign of David is divided into two parts.
+The first part was over Judah, with the capitol at Hebron, and lasted
+seven and one-half years. During this period Ishbosheth, son of Saul,
+reigned over Israel in the North. It is probable that both of these
+kings were regarded as vassals of the Philistines and paid tribute. On
+account of rival leaders, there was constant warfare between these two
+rival kings. The kingdom of Judah, however, gradually gained the
+ascendancy. This is beautifully described in the Scripture "David
+waxed stronger and stronger, but the house of Saul waxed weaker and
+weaker" (2 Sam. 3:1). Seeing this, Abner undertook negotiations
+looking to the onion of the two kingdoms, but was treacherously killed
+by Joab. The act of Abner in coming to David was in reality one of
+secession. It was soon followed by the murder of Ishbosheth and the
+utter failure of Saul's kingdom.
+
+His Reign Over All Israel. Saul's kingdom having fallen, Israel
+assembled in great numbers at Hebron and asked David to become king
+over all the nation. Upon his ascendancy to the throne of the united
+nations the Philistines sent an army into the Hebrew country. The
+brief record of these wars shows that they were very bitter and that
+at one time David was forced to take refuge in the Cave of Adullam and
+carry on a sort of guerrilla warfare. But finally in the valley of
+Rephaim he was enabled to strike such a crushing blow to the
+Philistines as to compel a lasting peace and leave him free to develop
+his kingdom. This reign of David, lasting thirty-three years after he
+became king of all, was the ideal reign of all the history of the
+Hebrews.
+
+The element  of success and chief acts of his reign may be summed up
+somewhat as follows: (1) _His capture of Jerusalem_ (formerly called
+Jesub,) a Canaanitish stronghold that had resisted all attacks from
+the days of Joshua, and making it his capitol. This choice showed
+great wisdom. (2) _His foreign relations_. David's foreign policy was
+one of conquest. He not only defended Israel but subdued other
+nations. Besides the subduing of the Philistines and capture of Jebus,
+already mentioned, he conquered the Moabites. the Syrians, the
+Edomites and the Ammonites. He also made an alliance with Hiram, the
+king of the Phoenicians, who became his lifelong friend. (3) _His home
+relations and policies_. His policy at home may be said to be one of
+centralization. One of his first acts was to bring up the ark and
+place it on Mount Zion and to center all worship there. This would
+tend to unite the people and to make more powerful his authority over
+all the people. In line with this plan he conceived the idea of
+building the temple and during the years he gathered materials and
+stored riches with which to build it. He acted with a wise
+consideration for the rights of his subjects and in every way sought
+to promote their happiness. As a ruler, he differed very widely from
+the kings of other countries. He possessed none of their selfish aims.
+He did not oppress his subjects with heavy taxes, nor spoil them of
+their possessions, nor seize them for soldiers against their will. He
+recognized that the king was for the people and not the people for the
+king.
+
+His Great Sin and Its Bitter Consequences. David's high ideals and
+noble chivalry could not withstand the enervating influence of his
+growing harem. The degrading influence of polygamy with its luxury,
+pleasure seeking and jealousies was soon to undermine his character.
+His sins and weak indulgencies were destined to work family and
+national disaster. These sins reached a climax in his trespass with
+Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah. In this crime he fell from his exalted
+position to the level of an unprincipled eastern monarch. It stands
+out as one of the darkest crimes of all history and "shows what
+terrible remnants of sin there are in the hearts even of converted
+men". Primitive society followed the course of nature in condemning
+adultery as worthy of more severe punishment than murder itself. And
+"no crime today involves more sudden and terrible consequences in the
+individual; no crime is capable of exerting as malign an influence
+upon the innocent family and later descendants of the culprit; no
+crime leaves in its wake as many physical and moral ills."
+
+The Bitter consequences of this sin soon became apparent. Nathan
+brought to him a worthy rebuke and he showed himself different from
+other kings of his time by the bitter repentance with which he bewails
+his iniquity in the fifty-first Psalm. God forgave his sin but its
+evil consequences in his family and nation could not be removed. The
+nature of his chastisement is suggested in the following incidents:
+(1) The death of his child born to Bath-sheba. (2) Ammon, his oldest
+son, one of the pitiable products of his oriental harem, shamefully
+treated his sister, Tamar, in the gratification of his brutal lusts.
+(3) Absalom treacherously murdered Ammon as a matter of revenge for
+the outrage upon his sister, Tamar. (4) The rebellion of Absalom, his
+son, which almost cost David the throne and led to the destruction of
+Absalom. (5) The rebellion of Shebna and following events, which
+almost destroyed the empire. (6) Many incidents in the family and
+kingdom of Solomon, his son.
+
+While David must always be judged by the social standards of his age
+it must be remembered that his own generation did not hesitate to
+condemn his act and we must not excuse in the least this awful sin.
+The message it has for us is supremely applicable to our present age
+in which social evil threatens to undermine our boasted Christian
+civilization.
+
+The Inspiring Career of David. The life of David is so varied and
+beautiful that one finds difficulty in outlining any study of him in
+the space allowed here. There are several ways of studying his career.
+Sometimes it may be profitable to consider him from two viewpoints,
+(1) His character, (2) His life after he became king. For our purpose,
+however, it would be better to look at him somewhat as follows: (1)
+_As a shepherd lad_, where he laid the foundations of his great
+career. (2) _As a servant at the court of Saul_, where he became the
+object of a bitter jealousy and suffered great indignities. (3) _As a
+refugee from Saul_, during which time he exhibited his unwillingness
+to do wrong even against one who was doing him great injustice. (4) As
+a friend, especially shown in his relation to Jonathan. By it he was
+influenced throughout his whole career and was caused after becoming
+king to extend kindness to the house of Saul, his enemy. 2 Sam. ch. 9.
+(5) _As a musician_. His accomplishments in this field are witnessed
+both by his ability in the use of the harp and in the great body of
+psalms which he left us. (6) _As a loyal subject_. In no other place,
+perhaps, did he show more fine qualities than in this. To him Saul was
+God's anointed, and, though wronged by Saul and though himself already
+anointed to be king in Saul's stead, he remained perfectly loyal to Saul
+as king. (7) _As a ruler_. He knew how to govern both his own people
+and those whom he had subdued. He also succeeded in forming friendly
+alliances with other kings and changed the enfeebled and divided tribes
+into a mighty empire. (8) _As a military leader_. Through his skill he
+organized a most successful army (1 Chron. 27:1-5; 2 Sam. 23:8-9), and
+defeated at least five surrounding nations and so impressed the great
+world powers beyond that they did not oppose the growth of his kingdom.
+(9) _As a servant of God_. Though making his mistakes, he was a "man
+after God's own heart." He made Jerusalem the great center of religion
+and organized the priests and Levites so that their work could be done
+effectively and with order. The key-note of his life seems to have
+been expressed to Goliath (I Sam. 17:45). (10) _As a type of Christ_.
+Of all the human types of Jesus in the Old Testament David is probably
+the most eminent. This fact makes the study of his life and experiences
+of great interest and profit to the Christian.
+
+His Last Days. The last days of David are made sad because of his own
+weakness. The memory of his guilt and disgrace had led him to withdraw
+more and more from the public life and, therefore, to neglect the
+duties of judge and ruler. His court became the scene of plotting
+concerning his successor, whose name he had apparently not announced.
+It was only by the valuable help of Nathan that he succeeded in having
+his wish in the matter.
+
+The dying words of David have in them much that is prophetic of the
+Messiah and points out to Solomon, his beloved son, who was to reign
+in his stead, the way of all success and blessing. It, however,
+contains what has been designated as "the greatest blot on David's
+character"-His charge to Solomon to put to death Shimei and Joab. Such
+vindictiveness does not seem to comport with his spirit manifested in
+the sparing of Saul in the days of his jealous hatred and in his
+kindness to the house of Saul (2 Sam. Ch. 9). Nor does it comport with
+this patience formerly shown to Shimei (2 Sam. 16:5-13). We can not
+explain these charges of hatred upon any other grounds than that of an
+old man in his dotage. He is "no longer his manful self."
+
+Psalms. While the time covered by the collection of the Psalms is more
+than a thousand years, reaching from the time of Moses to the period
+of the exile, it is probably best to study them in this period. The
+majority of them are ascribed to David and the whole collection early
+became known as the Psalms of David. Reference should be made to "The
+Bible Book By Book" for an introduction to their study.
+
+The Lessons of the Period. (1) Divine appointment to a great task does
+not guarantee one against falling into evil. (2) Luxury and the
+indulgence of the appetites tend to degradation. (3) The personal
+forgiveness of sin does not remove its evil consequences. (4) Our sins
+are often as harmful to others and even more so than to ourselves. (5)
+Righteousness exalteth a nation. (6) God controls the issues of wars.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The location of the several nations
+conquered by David and how the victories were won, especially the
+capture of Jebus. (2) David's plan to build the Temple and God's
+message to him II Sam. Ch. 11. Point out the different elements in it.
+(3) Absolom's conspiracy and final defeat, II Sam. Chs. 15 and 18. (4)
+The death of the child of Uriah's wife, II Sam. Ch. 12. (5) The
+different times David showed kindness to his enemies, II Sam. 9, 10,
+16, and 19. Learn the details of each case. (6) The organization of
+his kingdom, II Sam. 8:l6-18, 15:37, 16:16, 20:23-26; I Chron. 27:33.
+(7) Tie rebellion of Sheba, II Sam. 20:1-22. (8) The story of
+Adonijah, I K. Ch. 1. (9) List David's last commands to Solomon, I K.
+2:1-9. (10) Nathan's parable to David, II Sam. 12:1-9, 13-15. (11) The
+greatest fault of Absalom, of Joab. (12) Joab, the avenger, II Sam.
+2:17-32, 3:22-30, 18:9-15, 20:4-10.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XII.
+
+Solomon's Reign.
+
+I K. Chs. 1-12; II Chron. Chs.1-9.
+
+The Riddle of Solomon's Character. Few Biblical characters manifested
+such contradictory elements of character. Early in life he manifested
+an earnest, conscientious and religious spirit. He was prayerful and
+sought above all else wisdom and that for the good reason that he
+might be able to rule well. He built the temple and thereby magnified
+the worship of Jehovah.
+
+His prayer at the dedication of this temple were not only humble and
+fervent but were expressive of the very highest loyalty to Jehovah as
+the one supreme God and to all the high purposes of the divine will in
+Israel. But in spite of all this he put upon the people such heavy
+burdens of taxation as to crush them. He trampled under foot the
+democratic ideals of the nation and adopted the policy of oriental
+despots which tended to make free-born citizens mere slaves of the
+king. He lived a life of the basest sort of self-indulgence. He
+depended upon foreign alliances rather than upon Jehovah to save his
+nation. He married many strange wives and through them was led to
+establish in Israel the worship of strange Gods. I K. 11:1-8. On the
+whole his reign was such as to undo what had been accomplished by
+David and proved disastrous. Although counted the wisest he proved to
+be in many ways the most foolish king that ever ruled over Israel.
+
+His Policies. As a ruler it is easy to think of his policies under
+three heads, (1) _His home policy_. This was one of absolution. He
+became a despot and robbed the people of their freedom and put them
+under a yoke of oppression by imposing upon them heavy burdens of tax
+that he might carry out his unholy plans for selfish indulgence. (2)
+_His foreign policy_. This was a policy of diplomacy. By means of
+intermarriage, by the establishment of commercial relations and by the
+adoption of the customs and religions of other nations he bound them
+in friendly alliance. (3) _His religious policy_. This was a policy of
+concentration. He built die temple and, through the splendor of its
+worship, tried to concentrate all worship upon Mount Moriah. This
+desire may also have contributed to his erection of altars to foreign
+deities.
+
+Solomon's Building Enterprise. The greatest of all his building
+accomplishments was the temple. It is almost impossible to conceive of
+its magnificence. According to the most modern computation the
+precious materials, such as gold with which it was embellished,
+amounted to something like six hundred million dollars. Next in
+importance was his palace, which in size and time of construction
+surpassed that of the temple. This palace consisted of several halls,
+the chief of which were: The Forest of Lebanon, the Hall of Pillars,
+and the Hall of Judgment. Near the palace was the residence of the
+king himself and his Egyptian Queen-a house that would compare well
+with the royal palaces of her native land. Indeed all Moriah and the
+ground about its base were covered with immense structures.
+
+Besides the temple, palace and other great buildings at the capitol,
+Solomon undertook various other great building enterprises. He built
+many great cities not only in the territory of ancient Palestine but
+in his now extended empire. The most famous of these were Tadmor or
+Palmyra and Baalath, or Baalbic. The former built at an oasis of the
+Syrian desert seems to have been a sort of trade emporium for the
+traders of Syria and the Euphrates to exchange wares with the
+merchants of Egypt. The latter was near Lebanon and was chiefly
+notable for its temple of the sun which was one of the finest edifices
+of Syria.
+
+It would be difficult to put too high a value upon the influence
+wrought by these vast building enterprises. It can hardly be doubted
+that the building of the temple was the most important single event of
+the period of the United Kingdom. From this time on Israel ceased to
+look back to Sinai and regard Jerusalem as the dwelling place of
+Jehovah. Its priesthood and services became the support of all the
+coming kings. The prophets proclaimed their immortal messages from its
+sacred precincts and through it was nurtured the pure religion of
+Jehovah.
+
+Solomon's Writings. During this period as in the previous one literary
+culture made a great advance. Solomon, like David his father,
+possessed extraordinary literary gifts and as a writer had large
+influence. Three books of the Scripture are ascribed to him. (1) _The
+Book of Proverbs_. There is no reason to believe, however, that he
+wrote all of them. It is a collection of proverbs or rather several
+collections. Some were written by Solomon, collected by him from the
+wise sayings of others and still others were added collections of
+later times. (2) _Ecclesiastes_. The purpose of this book seems to be
+to show the result of successful worldliness and self-gratification
+compared with a life of godliness. It is intended to show that the
+realization of all one's aim and hopes and aspirations in the matters
+of wealth, pleasure and honor will not bring satisfaction to the
+heart. (3) _The Song of Solomon_. To the Jews of that time this book
+set forth the whole of the history of Israel; to the Christian it sets
+forth the fullness of love that unites the believer and his Savior as
+bride and bridegroom; to all the world it is a call to cast out those
+unworthy ideals and monstrous practices that threaten to undermine
+society and the home.
+
+Nations Surrounding Israel. The life of any people is always
+influenced by the nations around them. During this period Israel had
+intercourse with many other nations. (1) _Phoenicia_. This commercial
+people, through Hiram of Tyre, one of its kings, supplied the cedar
+wood and the skilled laborers who made possible the building of the
+temple. (2) _Egypt_. Solomon married a daughter of Pharoah and carried
+on with Egypt an extensive commerce and for his wife's sake no doubt
+introduced the worship of Egyptian gods. (3) _Assyria_. This country
+as well as Egypt had lost much of her former power and was not in a
+position to antagonize Solomon. (4) Among the other nations with which
+Solomon had dealings may be mentioned _Sheba_, thought to be in the
+most southern part of Arabia, _Ophir_ and _Tarshish_, and from the
+nature of articles purchased and the three years required for the
+voyage he is thought to have sent trading vessels to _India_.
+
+Evidences of National Decay. From the brief history of this period
+given us by the biblical writers it is evident that the nation began
+to disintegrate before the death of Solomon. Among the more apparent
+signs of decay were several revolts: (1) that of Hadad the Edomite,
+who threw off the Hebrew part of Edom independently: (2) that of Adad,
+the Midianite, who defiled the authority of Solomon; (3) that of
+Rezon, the Aramean, who revolted and became master of Damascus around
+which grew up an important kingdom; (4) that of Jeroboam, an
+Ephraimite, who was an officer of Solomon at Jerusalem and while
+unsuccessful showed the existence of a deep-seated discontent in
+Jerusalem itself. It is significant that the prophet Ahijah of Shiloh
+encouraged Jeroboam by telling him that, on account of the idolatry
+fostered by Solomon, ten tribes would be removed from Solomon's son
+and committed to him. This indicates that the prophets saw that
+disunion alone would preserve the liberties and pure religion of
+Israel.
+
+Lessons of the Period. (1) All national methods bring disaster if God
+is left out of account. (2) Material progress is absolutely of no
+value without a spiritual life. (3) National prosperity always
+endangers the nation. (4) The wisest and best of men may go wrong, if
+they subject themselves to evil influences. (5) Temples or houses of
+worship are of value in giving dignity to faith and in  preserving the
+spirit of worship. (6) If the common people feel that they are
+unjustly treated nothing will prevent the disintegration of the
+nation. (7) Religion that does not issue in proper ethics will suffer
+at the hands of true ethics. (8) The security of society depends upon
+simple justice.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The several incidents attending
+Solomon's accession to the throne, I K. Chs. 1-2. (2) David's last
+charge to Solomon, I K. Ch. 3; 4:29:34. (4) [sic] Solomon's temple:
+(a) Its size and plan; (b) Its equipment; (c) Its dedication. (5)
+Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the temple, I K. Ch. 8: II
+Chron. Ch. 6. Look for a revelation of his character, religious spirit
+and conception of God. (6) Solomon's sins, I K. Ch. 11. (7) Solomon's
+treatment of his foes I K, 2:19-46. (8). What Solomon did to stimulate
+trade, I K. 9:26-10:13; 10:22-29. (9) Statements in Ecclesiastes that
+point to Solomon as author or to experiences he had. (10) Statements
+in Song of Solomon that throw light upon the times or seem to refer to
+Solomon and his experiences.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XIII.
+
+The Divided Kingdom.
+
+1 King, 12-2 K. 17. 2 Chron. 10-38.
+
+The Division of the Kingdom. Several things must be set down as
+contributory causes of the division of the nation. (1) There was an
+old jealousy between the tribes of the north and south reaching as far
+back as the time of the Judges. The very difference in the northern
+and southern territories and their products tended to keep alive a
+rivalry between the tribes occupying them. (2) During the time of
+Solomon the people had turned away from Jehovah and engaged in the
+idolatrous worship of other gods, especially those of the Zidonians,
+Moabites and Ahijah, the prophet, had foretold the division (1 K.
+11:29-39). This weakening of the people's faithfulness to God gave
+place for the manifestations of their former jealousy. (3) Solomon had
+put upon the people heavy burdens of taxation and of forced labor,
+which were fast taking away the people's liberties and reducing them
+to serfdom. This policy inflamed the jealousy of the northern tribes
+into a bitter discontent. They would rebel rather than submit to the
+loss of their liberty which to them meant also disloyalty to God. (4)
+The ambition of Jeroboam, of the tribe of Ephraim, a valiant officer
+of Solomon, no doubt led him to stir up the ten tribes to revolt.
+Ahijah, the prophet, had made known to him that, upon the death of
+Solomon, he should become the head of these tribes. (5) The final and
+immediate cause was the foolish course of Rehoboam. He went to Shechem
+to be accepted as king by the northern tribes. They demanded that he
+should relieve them of the heavy burdens laid on them by Solomon. The
+older and more experienced men counseled him to grant their request,
+but he heeded the advice of the young men, who were ignorant of
+conditions, and answered them with a threat of even severer burdens.
+Incensed by this foolish threat, the ten tribes revolted and enthroned
+Jeroboam as their king and the division of the empire was
+accomplished. This was the turning point of the nation. It was the
+undoing of all that had been accomplished by the three kings that had
+proceeded.
+
+Comparison of the Two Kingdoms. Each kingdom had its advantages and
+its disadvantages. (1) The northern kingdom, from the material point
+of view, was far superior to the southern. It had a larger and more
+fertile country. It had three times as many people and a much better
+military equipment. Ramah, Bether and Gilgal with their sites of their
+schools of the prophets were all in their borders. Their country was
+also the scene of greatest prophetic activity and their cause was
+just. But the kings were inferior and wicked. Not a single one of the
+nineteen kings were godly. They established idolatrous and abominable
+worship as a religion of the king. This idolatry counterbalanced all
+the material advantages. (2) The Southern Kingdom was far superior
+from a spiritual point of view. It possessed the religious capital of
+the nation with the temple as a center of Jehovah worship. True it had
+only one third as many people, one half as much territory and that
+less fertile, and an inferior military equipment, but its superior
+spiritual power and its superior line of kings made it last 135 years
+longer than the northern kingdom.
+
+The Kings of the Northern Kingdom.
+
+1. Jeroboam, 1 K. 12:20-14:20. Reigned 22 years and died.
+
+2. Nadab, 1 K. 15:25-27. Reigned 2 years and was slain.
+
+3. Baasha, 1 K. 15;27-16:6. Reigned 24 years and died.
+
+4. Elah, 1 K. 16;6-10. Reigned 2 years and was slain.
+
+5. Zimri, 1 K. 18:11-20. Reigned 7 days and suicided.
+
+6. Omri, 1 K. 16:31-28. Reigned 12 years and died.
+
+7. Ahab, 1 K. 16:29-22:40. Reigned 22 years and was slain in battle.
+
+8. Ahaziah, 1 K. 22:51-2 K. 1:18. Reigned 2 years and died from an
+accident.
+
+9. Jehoram, 2 K. 3:1-9:24. Reigned 12 years and was slain.
+
+10. Jehu, 2 K. 9:1-10:36. Reigned 28 years and died.
+
+11. Jehoahaz, 2 K. 13:1-9. Reigned 17 years and died.
+
+12. Jehoash, 2 K. 13:10-14:16. Reigned 16 years and died.
+
+13. Jeroboam II, 2 K. 14:23-29. Reigned 41 years and died.
+
+14. Zechariah, 2 K. 15:8-10. Reigned 6 months and was slain.
+
+15. Shallum, 2 K. 15:13-14. Reigned 1 month and was slain.
+
+16. Menahem, 2 K. 15:14-22. Reigned 10 years and died.
+
+17. Pekahian, 2 K. 15:23-26. Reigned 2 years and was slain.
+
+18. Pekah, 2 K. 15:27-16:9. Reigned 20 years and was slain.
+
+19. Hoshea, 2 K. 17:1-6. Reigned 9 years and put in prison.
+
+The Kings of Judah.
+
+1. Rehoboam, 1 K. 12:21-24; 14:21-31; 2 Chron. 11:1-12:16. Reigned 17
+years and died.
+
+2. Abijah, 1 K. 15:1-8; 2 Chron. 13:1-22. Reigned 3 years and died.
+
+3.  Asa, 1 K. 15:9-24; 2 Chron. 14:1-16:14. Reigned 41 years and died.
+
+4. Jehoshaphat, 1 K. 13:24; 23:41-50; 2 K. 3:1-27; 2 Chron. 17:1-21:1
+Reigned 25 years and died.
+
+5. Jeboram, 2 K. 8:16-24; 2 Chron. 21:1-20. Reigned 8. years and died.
+
+6. Ahaziah, 2 K. 8:25-29; 9:27-29; 2 Chron. 22:1-9. Reigned 1 year and
+was killed by order of Jehu.
+
+7. Athaliah, 2 K. 11:1-21:2; 2 Chron, 22;10-23:6. Reigned 6 years and
+was slain when Joash became king.
+
+8. Joash, 2 K. 11:3-12:21; 2 Chron. 24:1-27. Reigned 40 years and was
+slain.
+
+9. Amaziah, 2 K. 14:1-20; 2 Chron. 25:1-28. Reigned 29 years and was
+slain.
+
+10. Uzziah or Azariah, 2 K. 14:21-25; 2 Chron. 28:1-23. Reigned 52
+years and died.
+
+11. Jotham, 2 K. 15:32-36; 2 Chron. 27:1-9. Reigned IB years and died.
+
+12. Ahaz, 2 K. 16:1-30: 2 Chron. 28:1-27. Reigned IS years and died.
+
+Important Events in the History of Israel. The following are perhaps
+the most important events in the history of tie northern kingdom
+during this period. (1) The establishment of idol worship at Dan and
+Bethel. (2) The removal of the Capital, by Omri, from Tirzah to the
+hill site of Samaria. (3) The wicked reign of Ahab, who introduced
+Baal worship into Israel. (4) The reformations of Jehu, who swept Baal
+worship from the land and overthrew the hated dynasty of Omri. (5) The
+successful reign of Jeroboam II, who brought the nation back to a
+state of prosperity that resembled the time of David and Solomon. (6)
+The activity of the prophets during the entire period. This activity
+is seen in the important place given (1 K. 17-2 K. 13) to the work of
+Elijah and Elisha; in the prophecy of Jonah, Amos and Hosea, who
+prophesied in the time of the reign of Jereboam II, and in part in the
+reign of Micah who preached during the reign of Hoshea. (7) The
+conquest of Israel by the Assyrians which came as the result of forty
+years of constant decline following the death of Jeroboam II. After
+this Israel disappears from history. She had sinned away her
+opportunity.
+
+Principal Events In the History of Judah. The following are the
+principal events of the history of Judah from the division of the
+kingdom until the captivity of Israel. (1) The foolish answer of
+Rehoboam to the ten tribes which led to their revolt and the continual
+enmity of the northern and southern kingdoms that followed. (2) The
+invasion of Judah by Shishak of Egypt, who greatly weakened the
+nation. (3) The reign of Jehoshaphat whose judicial, military and
+educational or religious reforms introduce a new and good day in Judah
+and whose unhappy alliance with Ahab, led his son, who followed him as
+king to introduce idolatry into Judah, with all the evil of the reign
+of Jehoram, Ahaziah and Athaliah. (4) The prosperous reign of Uzziah,
+who was contemporary with Jeroboam II of Israel. (5) The Apostasy
+under Ahaz, who encouraged Baal worship and practiced great cruelty
+even on the members of his own family. The prophet Isaiah (chs. 7-9)
+appeals to Ahaz and to the people to return to Jehovah.
+
+The Relation between the Two Kingdoms. The bearing of the two kingdoms
+toward each other during this period was constantly changing. (1)
+There was almost constant war for about sixty years. During this time
+the kings of Judah cherished the hope that they would regain their
+control over the ten tribes. (2) There was a period of close alliance.
+This alliance was sealed by an intermarriage between the families of
+Ahab, king of Israel and Jehoshaphat, king of Judah. The purpose seems
+to have been that they might better resist the encroaching power of
+Assyria. (3) There was a fresh manifestation of hatred. Jehu is
+enthroned in Israel and destroys the house of Ahab. This shatters the
+alliance between the two nations and causes a breach that is never
+healed. The northern kingdom becomes more and more idolatrous, suffers
+at the hands of the Syrians and is finally carried captive by the
+Assyrians in 722 B. C.
+
+The Messages of the Prophets of this Period. It is not within the
+purpose of this study to raise any of the questions of criticism
+concerning these books. Nor is there time to summarize the contents or
+teachings of nay or all of them. The prophets of this period are
+Jonah, Amos and Hosea, and the prophecy of each should be read
+following the outline given in the author's "The Bible Book by Book."
+
+Lessons of the Period. (1) Jehovah rules not only in Israel but over
+all peoples. (2) Each nation is responsible to God according to its
+opportunity and enlightenment. (3) God judges people according to
+their acts, not according to religious creeds or ceremonies. (4)
+Though a merciful God, Jehovah will and must finally punish willful
+and continuous evil doers. (5) Sin is infidelity to God and brings
+pain to his heart. (6) All punishment is administered to the end that
+the sinful may repent and be forgiven. (7) Jehovah loves men and
+demands that they love him in return. (8) Repentance is the only way
+of escape from doom. (9) God seeks to save men and nations from the
+sins that are to destroy them.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The events leading to the division of
+the kingdom. (2) The story of each king in each nation, (a) How he
+came to the throne, (b) The chief acts of his reign, (c) The character
+of the king himself, (d) The length of his reign, (e) His enemies and
+his friends, (f) How his reign ended. (3) The story of Ahab. (4) The
+story of Elijah. (5) The story of Elisha. (6) The miracles of the
+period. (7) The different enemies with which the tribes were
+surrounded and the trouble they had with each. (8) Jonah and his
+service. (9) The evidence of wealth and luxury of the time. (10) The
+sins of cruelty and injustice in society and government.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XIV.
+
+The Kingdom of Judah.
+
+II K. 18-25; II Chron. 28-36.
+
+Note: This period covers the time from the fail of Israel to the fall
+of Judah. It begins in the sixth year of the reign of Hezekiah, whose
+name is given as the first king of the period since most of his reign
+was in this instead of the former period.
+
+The Kings of this Period.
+
+13. Hezekiah, 2 K. 18:1-20-21; 2 Chron. 29:1-32:33. Reigned 29 years
+and died.
+
+14. Manasseh, 2 K. 21:1-18; 2 Chron. 33:1-20. Reigned 55 year and
+died.
+
+15. Amon, 2 K. 21:19-26; 2 Chron. 33:20-25. Reigned 2 years and was
+slain by a conspiracy of his servants.
+
+16. Josiah, 2 K. 22:1-23; 2 Chron. 34:1-33:27. Reigned 31 years and
+was killed in battle.
+
+17. Jehoahaz. 2 K. 23:30-34; 2 Chron. 36:1-4. Reigned 3 months and was
+dethroned and carried into Egypt where he died.
+
+18. Jehoiakim, 2 K. 23:34-24:6; 2 Chron. 36:4-8. Reigned 11 years and
+died.
+
+19. Jehoiachin. 2 K. 24:6-16; 2 Chron. 36:9-10. Reigned 3 months and
+was carried captive to Egypt.
+
+20. Zedekiah. 2 K. 24:17-25; 2 Chron. 36:11-21. Reigned 11 years and
+carried captive into Egypt.
+
+
+The Principal Events of the Period. Among the more important events of
+this period the following should be noticed. (1) The reforms of
+Hezekiah who attempted to restore the whole Mosaic order. (2) The
+invasion of Judah by Sennacherib, king of Assyria who at first
+humiliated Hezekiah, but later, was destroyed by divine intervention
+and Jerusalem saved. (3) The wicked reign of Manasseh, who sought to
+destroy all true worship and established idolatrous worship in its
+stead. (4) His captivity in Babylon and release and attempted reform.
+(5) The good reign of Josiah, who destroyed the altars of idolatry,
+repaired the temple and caused the book of the law to be read-all of
+which resulted in a very thorough-going revival of true worship. (6)
+The conflicts with their enemies which finally resulted in the
+downfall of Jerusalem and the captivity of the people. This captivity
+was completely accomplished through three invasions of the hosts of
+Nebuchadnezzar, (a) In the reign of Jehoiakim at which time he carried
+away captive Daniel and his friends; (b) In the reign of Jehoiachin or
+Jeconiah, when he carried to Babylon the treasures of Jerusalem and
+the skilled workmen as well as the officers of the court; (c) In the
+reign of Zedekiah, when the city and temple and walls and principal
+houses were destroyed and large numbers carried into captivity.
+
+The Prophets of the Period and Their Messages. Of all the periods this
+is signalized by the greatest prophetic activity. There was constant
+need both on the part of the king and on the part of the people for
+the warnings and rebukes of the people. Some prophets delivered part
+of their message in one period and the rest in another. No doubt
+Isaiah and Micah did part of their service during the former period
+and Jeremiah performed a part of his in the next. But they are all put
+down here because this is the period of their greatest activity. The
+other prophets of the period are Joel, Nahum, Zephaniah, Habakkuk and
+Obadiah. The messages of these prophets should be carefully read
+following outlines given in "The Bible Book by Book."
+
+The Teachings of the Prophets. It is difficult to put down in brief
+form the various teachings announced and implied in the writings of
+the prophets. Their sermons covered a wide range of subjects,
+religious, political, commercial and social. They touch upon matters
+that are national and also those that are personal. The following may
+be regarded as among their most important teachings. (1) That Jehovah
+is a moral being-holy, just, wise and good. (2) That Jehovah was the
+God not only of Judah and of Israel but off all nations. (3) That no
+man, no set of men and no nation can thwart the plans of God. (4) That
+God's judgments were certain to overtake the sinful. (5) That religion
+was not separate from life, but the very central factor of it-that
+religion and ethics are so blended that "to act justly, to love mercy
+and to walk humbly before his God" is shown to be man's whole duty.
+(6) That religion is a personal spiritual relation between God and
+man. This is especially the contribution of Jeremiah and lays the
+foundation for all true faith and is a basal principle of our
+Christianity.
+
+The False Prophets, Through all the history of Israel false prophets
+were a source of great trouble. Among those of earlier times may be
+noted: (1) An old prophet of Bethel, 1 K. 13:11. (2) 400 prophets with
+a lying spirit, 1 K. 22:6-8. 22-23. (3) 450 prophets of Baal, 1 K.
+18:19, 22, 40. (4) 400 prophets of Asherah. 1 K. 18:19. A study of
+these will show that some are idolatrous prophets and others are
+perverted worshipers of Jehovah, who did not really prophesy at all.
+Some were no doubt deliberate deceivers of the people while others
+were perhaps self-deceived.
+
+
+During the years immediately preceding the Babylonian captivity false
+prophets played a prominent role and their pernicious influence upon
+Judah's history can hardly be overestimated. They lured the people to
+their ruin and undermined the influence of the true prophets. Isaiah
+talks about the prophet that teaches lies (Is. 9:15). Jeremiah talks
+of prophets of lies, who prophesy, not having been sent of Jehovah
+(Jer. 14:13-15; 23:21-22). Micah tells of the prophets who make the
+people err (Mi. 3:5). Jeremiah was openly opposed by Hananiah (Jer.
+Ch. 28). These prophets destroyed confidence in the message of true
+prophets and brought about a time when the voice of these messengers
+of God ceased to be heard in Israel.
+
+The Great Religious Revivals of this Period. The whole history of the
+kingdom of Judah is marked by periods of religious decline and
+revival. The most striking of these are indicated by the following
+outline. (1) A decline under the reign of Rehoboam. (2) A revival
+begun under Asa and made complete under the reign of Jehoshaphat; (3)
+A decline begun in the reign of Jehoram and continued until the reign
+of Ahaz where the lowest spiritual state was reached. (4) A new
+revival under Hezekiah, who introduced sweeping social and religious
+changes. (5) A decline under Manasseh who reared images to Baal,
+defiled the temple and overthrew the good work of his father Hezekiah.
+(6) A revival under Josiah, grandson of Manasseh, whose piety began to
+manifest itself at the age of sixteen. He began his reforms at the age
+of twenty and spent six years in hewing down the altars and images of
+idolatry. The temple was repaired, the law found and enjoined upon the
+people and the Passover celebrated. (7) A final decline that carried
+Judah on downward until her glory was destroyed and she was led away
+into Babylon as captive.
+
+
+The study of these successive efforts at returning to the true worship
+of Jehovah and their quick collapse indicate that the kindlings of
+spiritual life which they seem to manifest were not real spiritual
+revivals. Many people did no doubt turn in truth to God. but the
+rapidity with which each effort was followed by a return to deeper
+depths of immorality, such as those indicated by Amos 5:l6, 7:17, 8:6;
+Is. 1:23, 10:1; and Hos. 9:15 give evidence of the abounding
+wickedness of the period.
+
+The Wealth and Luxury. There is much in the discourses to indicate
+that wealth abounded and that kings and other influential men lived in
+luxury. The upper classes indulged in all the follies of the idle rich
+and showed the usual heartlessness toward the poor. The following list
+of scriptures will indicate some of the things which they possessed
+and which they did: Amos 5:11, 3:15, 6:4; Jer. 22:14; Is. 5:ll-12,
+3:18-23, 21:7. To this list the student by comparison and reference
+can add many others.
+
+Contemporary Nations. No study of this period would be complete
+without a knowledge of the other nations that influenced this time.
+Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Media, Phoenicia, Carthage, Greece and Rome
+all influenced Judah. From the Bible narratives and from secular
+history the student should become acquainted with the leading events
+in the history of this period of each of these nations.
+
+Lessons of the Period. It is most difficult to put down the permanent
+lessons or teachings of this period. To the teachings of the prophets
+given above the following are well worth preserving as lessons for our
+day as well as theirs. (1) All reformation must begin at the house of
+God and in connection with his worship-witness the reform work of Asa,
+Jehoshaphat, Joash, Hezekiah and Josiah. (2) Religion must set the
+standards for the conduct of national affairs. (3) Sin is infidelity
+to love, or spiritual adultery. It not only breaks law but cruelly
+wounds love. (4) Sin blinds men to their best interests, turns them
+against their best friends and issues in their ruin. (5) The political
+sentiment or the politician that neglects or attacks God, or the
+national recognition of him is perilous to the nation. (6) The loss of
+the sense or vision of God leads to "degraded ideals, deadened
+consciences and defeated purposes." (7) True love: (a) is not blind to
+the sins of the one loved; (b) does not try to cover up the faults but
+tries to turn one from them; (c) does not desert one when calamity
+comes because of persistence in sin. See the attitude of Jeremiah to
+Judah before and after the captivity.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) Study each of the teachings of the
+prophets given above: (a) Try to find scripture basis for it; (b)
+Discuss it as a universal principle. (2) Study each of the scriptures
+referred to in the discussion above on false prophets: (a) From
+references collect other passages on the subject; (b) Make a list of
+their prophecies and tell how to determine whether a prophet is false.
+(3) From the scriptures given above on wealth and luxury and from
+others to be pointed out: (a) List the evidences of wealth; (b)
+Compare the conditions then and now. (4) Following the instructions
+for study in the paragraph above on contemporaneous nations prepare a
+list of facts concerning each, especially of matters that affected
+Judah. (5) Name the kings of this period. Tell (a) how each came into
+office, (b) how long he reigned, (c) how his career ended, (d) what
+prophet preached to each and the nature of the prophecy. (6)
+Hezekiah's sickness, 2 King 20:1-11; 2 Chron. 32;24-26; (7) His song
+of thanksgiving, Is. 38:10-20. Carefully analyze it. (8) Sennacherib's
+invasion, 2 K. 18:14-19 end; Is. 14:24-27; 36:1-37:10; 2 Chron.
+32:1-23. (a) The object of the expedition; (b) The conference with
+Hezekiah; (c) The outcome. (9) Josiah's reformations. (10) The three
+invasions of Nebuchadnezzar.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XV.
+
+The Captivity of Judah.
+
+Eze., Dan., Lam.
+
+The Ten Tribes Lost. After the fall of Samaria we hear but little of
+the ten tribes. They were carried off into the regions of Ninevah by
+the Assyrians. All effort to locate them has failed and no doubt will
+fail. Sargon, in an inscription found at Ninevah, said that he carried
+away into captivity 27,290. These were perhaps leaders of Israel whom
+he thought might lead a revolt. He sent others back to take their
+place and the Israelites seemed to have mingled with the races about
+them and to have lost their identity. No doubt some of them as
+individuals were faithful to the worship of Jehovah and may have found
+their way back to Palestine under the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah.
+But it was different with Judah who all the time kept true to her
+ideals and looked for the return that had been prophesied. This hope
+was realized through the work of Ezra and Nehemiah following the
+decree of Cyrus.
+
+Judah Led into Captivity. The captivity of Judah was accomplished by
+three distinct invasions of the Babylonians and covered a period of
+twenty years. (1) _The first invasion and captivity_. This was in 607
+B.C., at which time Daniel and his friends along with others were
+carried into captivity, 2 K. 24:1, Jer. 25:1, Dan. 1:1-7. (2) _The
+second invasion and captivity_. This was 597 B.C., at which time king
+Jehoiakim and 10.000 of the people were carried into captivity. Among
+these were Ezekiel and one of the ancestors of Mordicai, the cousin of
+Esther, 2 K. 24:10-16; Eze. 1:1-2; Est. 2:5-6. (3) _The third invasion
+and captivity_. In 587 B.C. Jerusalem was conquered and its walls and
+palaces as well as the temple were destroyed and the inhabitants
+carried away into exile, 2 K. 24:18; 24:1-27; 2 Chron. 36:11-21; Jer.
+52:1-11. This is the end of the southern kingdom.
+
+The Period of the Captivity. Jeremiah predicts that the captivity will
+last seventy years (Jer. 25:12; 29:10; see 2 Chron. 36:21; Dan. 9:2:
+Zech. 7:6). There are two ways of adjusting the dates to fulfill this
+prediction, (1) From the first invasion and the carrying into
+captivity of Daniel and others, 607 B. C. to 537 B. C., when the first
+company returned under Zerubbabel. (2) From the final fall of
+Jerusalem. 587 B. C. to the completion of the renewed temple and its
+dedication, 517 B. C. Either satisfies the scripture. In history it is
+customary to speak of this exile as covering only the fifty years from
+587 B. C. when Jerusalem was destroyed and the last company carried
+away to 537 B. C. when the first company returned under Zerubbabel.
+
+The Fugitives in Egypt. When Jerusalem fell the king of Babylon
+allowed many of the poorer people to remain in Palestine and Jedediah,
+a grandson of Josiah, was appointed to rule over them. 2 K. 25:22. His
+career was a very useful one, but through jealousy he was soon
+murdered, 2 K. 25:25. This led the people to fear lest Nebuchadnezzar
+would avenge his death, whereupon they fled into Egypt 2 K. 25:26.
+Jeremiah attempted to keep them from going to Egypt (Jer. 42:9-22.)
+but, when he failed, he went along with them and shared their destiny,
+Jer. 43:6-7. They settled at Tahpanhee (Jer. 44:1), a frontier town
+where many foreigners lived under the protection of Egypt. They seem
+to have built a temple there and did much to retain their racial
+ideals. Jeremiah seems to have continued his faithful prophecies and
+the people seem to have continued as faithfully to reject his counsel.
+We do not know how he ended his career but Jewish tradition says he
+was put to death by his own people.
+
+The Exiles in Babylon. The state of the exiles in Babylon may not be
+fully known but from the contemporary writers very much may be known.
+(1) _Their home_. They were settled in a rich and fertile plain,
+intersected by many canals. It was on the river, or canal, Chebar (Ez.
+1:1.3; 3:15, etc.) which ran southeast from Babylon to Nippur. It was
+a land of traffic and merchants and fruitful fields (Ez. 17:4-5). They
+were rather colonists than slaves and enjoyed great freedom and
+prosperity. (2) _Their occupation_. By reason of their intellectual
+and moral superiority the Jews, as they are called from this time
+forward, would secure rapid advancement. Some of them such as Daniel
+obtained high position. Others became skilled workmen. Following the
+advice of Jeremiah (Jer. 29:5), many of them no doubt gave themselves
+to agriculture and gardening. Probably most of them yielded to the
+opportunities of the "land of traffic and merchants" mentioned above
+and engaged in commercial instead of agricultural pursuits. (3) _Their
+government_. For a long time they were allowed to control their own
+affairs as their own laws provided. The elders of the families acted
+as judges and directed affairs in general. For a while they probably
+held the power of life and death over their own people, but the
+capital cases were punished later by authority of Babylon (Jer.
+29:22.) (4) _Their religion_. Here also the information is meager and
+must be gathered from statements and inferences found in several
+books. Several things are certain: (a) For the most part they
+preserved their genealogies, thus making possible the identity of the
+Messiah as well as their proper place in worship when they were
+restored; (b) They gave up all idolatry and were never again led into
+its evil practices as they had been wont to do before. Indeed, there
+are, even to the present day, no idolatrous Jews; (c) They gave up the
+elaborate ceremonials and the public and private sacrifices and the
+great festivals. In their stead prayer and fasting and Sabbath
+observances constituted the main part of their religious life. The
+observance of the Sabbath became a ceremony and was robbed of its
+simple divine purpose; (d) They assembled the people together on the
+Sabbath for the purpose of prayer and the reading of the scripture.
+This custom probably formed the basis for synagogue worship so
+influential later; (e) All this private devotion and prayer such as
+was seen in the thrice-a-day worship of Daniel was opening the way for
+a purer and more spiritual religion; (f) The Canon was greatly
+enlarged and new spiritual teachings were announced or new light
+thrown on old teachings. The prophesies of Daniel and Ezekiel with
+many psalms were added. The book of Lamentations and chapters 40-44 of
+Jeremiah were also the products of this date but refer especially to
+the conditions of those in Egypt.
+
+The Prophets of the Exile. This period is calculated to bring great
+discouragement to the Jews. They so far failed of their expectations
+that there is danger that they will give up their proper regard for
+Jehovah. They have great need that some one tell them the significance
+of their suffering and point out for them some word of hope for the
+future. This service was rendered by the prophets. There was great
+activity on the part of false prophets (Jer. 39:4-8, 21-23;
+Ez. 13:1-7, 14:8-10), but they were blessed by the following true
+prophets: (1) _Ezekiel_. These prophecies began by recounting the
+incidents of the prophet's call and the incidents between the first
+and the second captivities; they then denounce those nations that had
+part in the destruction of Jerusalem and those that had been bitter
+and oppressive in their dealings with Israel and Judah; they close
+with messages of comfort and cheer for the exiled people; (2)
+_Daniel_. (3) _Lamentations_. Besides a portion of the book of
+Jeremiah and probably of Isaiah which, as suggested above, belongs to
+this period, the book of Lamentations, written while in exile in
+Egypt, should be placed here. All three of these books should be read
+by following the outline given in "The Bible Book by Book."
+
+The Benefits of the Captivity, Dr. Burroughs gives as benefits that
+the Jews derived from the captivity the following four things: (1) the
+destruction of idolatry; (2) the rise of the synagogue; (3) a deepened
+respect for the law of Moses; (4) a longing for the Messiah. To these
+might be added or emphasized as being included in them: (1) a vital
+sense of repentance was created; (2) the change from the national,
+festal and ceremonial worship to a spiritual and individual religion;
+(3) a belief that Israel had been chosen and trained in order that
+through her Jehovah might bless the whole world.
+
+Lessons of the Period. The experiences of Judah as recorded in this
+period bring us several important truths. (1) That sin will tear down
+both men and nations. (2) Men are responsible and suffer for their own
+sins but not for the sins of others, Ez. 18:2-3; 33:10-11. (3) God
+controls all circumstances toward the ultimate accomplishment of his
+purposes. (4) He makes free use of all "world rulers as his tools to
+execute his will" (5) God sets up and destroys nations. (6) God cares
+for his people and overrules all for their good. See Dan., etc. (7)
+One can live right in spite of one's surroundings (see Daniel) and
+such living will lead men to know God. (8) Evil grows more and more
+determined while good grows more and more distinct and hence the
+question "Is the world growing better?" (9) God rejoices in the
+opportunity to forgive his erring people and in restoring them again
+into his partnership.
+
+For Study and Discussion, (1) When, to whom and by whom the exile was
+predicted: (a) 2 K. 20:17-18; (b) 2 K. 21:10-16; (c) 2 K. 22:16-17,
+Dt. 28:25, 52-68; (d) Jer. 25:9-11; (e) Jer. 34:2-3; (f) Mic. 3:12;
+(g) Zeph. 1:2-6. (2) The different classes of exiles: (a) Those in
+favor with the court, Dan. 1:19-21, 2:45-49; (b) Common laborers-lower
+classes, Jer. ch. 29, Eze. ch. 13; (c) Pretentious prophets, Eze. ch.
+13, Jer. ch. 29. (3) The social condition of the exiles, 2 K. 25:27;
+Dan. 1:19-21; Is. 60:1; Jer. 29:4-7, Esth., and passages in Eze. (4)
+The details of each of the three invasions and the captivities as
+outlined above. See scriptures. (5) The exiles in Egypt: (a) Who they
+were, (b) How they fared. (6) The activity and influence of false
+prophets of this age. (7) The story of Nebuchadnezzar's dreams and
+their interpretation: (a) the image dream, (b) the tree dream. (8) The
+stories of (a) The fiery furnace; (b) of the lion's den. (9) The feast
+of Belshazzar. (10) The visions of Daniel 7:1-14, 8:1-12, 10:4-6. (11)
+The four beasts of Daniel and their significance. (12) The oracles
+against foreign nations, Eze. chs. 25-32. (13) The benefits mentioned
+above. (14) The lessons mentioned above. Find scripture basis for
+them.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XVI.
+
+The Restoration.
+
+
+Ezra, Neh., Esth., Hag., Zech.
+
+Scripture Analysis. The books of Ezra and Nehemiah furnish the outline
+of the period and its achievements. The two books were formerly
+counted one book and a continuous outline of the two is best suited to
+the proper emphasis of the various events of the period. The following
+outline will appear simple and yet sufficient for our purpose. (1) The
+rebuilding of the temple (Ezra, chs. 1-6). (2) The reforms of Ezra
+(Ezra, chs. 7-10). (3) The rebuilding of the walls (Neh. chs. 1-7).
+(4) The covenant to keep the law (Neh. chs. 8-10). (5) The inhabitants
+of Jerusalem (Neh. 11:1-12:26). (6) The dedication of the wall and the
+reform of Nehemiah (Neh. 12:27-13-end).
+
+Predictions of the Return. The return from captivity had been
+prophesied long before the fall of Jerusalem. Several prophets had
+foretold the captivity and in connection with it had told of the
+destruction of Babylon and Judah's restoration. Even the length of
+their stay in exile was announced. While they were in exile they were
+constantly encouraged by the promised return foretold to them by
+Ezekiel, Jeremiah and others. (1) Restoration at the end of seventy
+years is predicted. (Jer. 25:12; 29:10; Dan. 9:2). (2) Other
+Scriptures that foretell the overthrow of Babylon or the return to
+Jerusalem or both may be found in Is. chs. 13, 14, 21, 44-47; Jer.
+28:4-11; chs. 50-52; Ez. ch. 27, etc.
+
+The Rise of Persian Power. This was a period of world change. Great
+empires in rapid succession fell under the power of new and rising
+kingdoms. (1) The Assyrian Empire, which superseded the Chaldean
+Empire about 1500 B. C., and now loomed so large in the eyes of the
+world, fell, when the combined forces of the Medes and Babylonians
+captured Ninevah her capital (B. C. 607) and was numbered among the
+dead nations. (2) The Babylonian Empire rose to supremacy and was the
+dominating power when Judah went into captivity. She was the most
+splendid kingdom the world had ever seen. (3) The Persian power
+conquered Media and the greater part of Assyria and the Medo-Persian
+Empire under Cyrus conquered Babylon and held almost universal sway at
+the time of the restoration.
+
+The Decree of Cyrus. It is now about 150 years since Isaiah in his
+prophesies called Cyrus by name and predicted that he should restore
+God's captive people to their own land and now in fulfillment of that
+prophecy God stirred up the spirit of Cyrus and caused him to issue a
+proclamation for the return of the Jews and the rebuilding of the
+temple. He gave orders that his people should give the Jews silver,
+gold and beasts. He also restored to them the vessels of the house of
+the Lord (Ezra. 1:1-3) and instructed the governors along the way to
+assist him.
+
+Three Expeditions to Jerusalem. The return from Babylon covered a long
+period of time and consisted of three separate detachments under as
+many different leaders. There were important intervening events and
+contributory causes. (1) The first colony to return was _under
+Zerubhabel_ (536 B. C.) and consisted of about fifty thousand. Ezra
+chs. 1-6. We have given us the records of activities of this colony
+for a period of about twenty-one years, during which time the temple
+was rebuilt and dedicated. Much opposition was encountered in the
+matter of rebuilding the temple and the work was finally stopped. It
+is here that Haggai and Zechariah delivered their stirring prophesies
+which together with the influence of Jerubbabel and Jeshua, the
+priest, stimulated the people to renew their building operations and
+complete the temple (B. C. 515). In the course of history, Haggai and
+Zechariah would come in between the fourth and fifth chapters of Ezra.
+(2) The second colony returned to Jerusalem _under the leadership of
+Ezra_ (Ezra chs. 7-10) and consisted of about 1800 males with their
+families. There is here a lapse of about fifty-seven years from the
+completion and dedication of the temple to the time of Ezra's going to
+Jerusalem-the last thirty years of the reign of Darius, the twenty
+years of the reign of Xerxes and seven years of the reign of
+Artaxerses. Ezra obtained permission from Artaxerxes to return and
+also letters of instruction to the rulers to give him assistance. He
+was a scribe of the law of Moses and his mission was primarily a
+religious one. He was a descendant from the house of Aaron and as such
+he assumed the office of priest when he reached Jerusalem. Upon his
+arrival he found that the first colony had fallen into gross
+immoralities and into unsound religious practices. He rebuke  He
+rebuke all these sins and brought about a great reform. It is not
+certain that he remained in Jerusalem. His leave from the king may
+have been only temporary and he may have gone back to Babylon and
+returned again to Jerusalem in the time of Nehemiah.   (3) The third
+colony was _led to Jerusalem by Nehemiah_ (the book of Nehemiah). The
+number returning is not given. Nehemiah was the cupbearer to the
+Persian king and upon hearing of the distress of his people at
+Jerusalem secured permission from him to go to Jerusalem as the
+governor. In spite of very determined opposition he was enabled to
+repair the wall of the city and dedicate it with great ceremony (Neh.
+chs. 6 and 12). Nehemiah is counted as one of the greatest reformers.
+He corrected many abuses such as those of usury and restored the
+national life of the Jews based upon the written law. Together with
+Ezra he restored the priests to their positions and renewed the temple
+worship. He went back to the Persian court where he remained several
+years and then returned to Jerusalem and continued his reforms. This
+ends the Old Testament history.
+
+The Prophecy of Hagai and Zechariah. The task of these prophets was
+the same and was by no means an easy one. The work of rebuilding the
+temple, which had been begun when Jerubbabel and his colony came to
+Jerusalem, had been stopped by the opposition which they met. Along
+with this laxity of effort to build the temple the Jews were busy
+building houses for themselves (1:4) and had become very negligent of
+all duty. They had begun to despair of seeing their people and the
+beloved city and temple restored to the glory pictured by the prophets
+and were rapidly becoming reconciled to the situation. These two
+prophets succeeded in arousing interest and confidence in the people
+and through their appeals secured the finishing of the temple.
+
+The Prophecy of Malachi. This prophecy condemns the same sins as those
+mentioned in the last chapters of Ezra and Nehemiah. He denounced
+their impure marriages, their lack of personal godliness, their
+failure to pay tithes and their skepticism. The special occasion for
+the discourses was the discontent which arose because their
+expectation of the glorious Messianic Kingdom had not been realized.
+They had also had unfavorable harvests. It is thought by many that the
+time of the prophecy is between the first and second visit of Nehemiah
+to Jerusalem. The purpose seems to be: (1) to rebuke them for
+departing from the law; (2) to call them back to Jehovah; (3) to
+revive the national spirit.
+
+The Story of Esther. King Ahasuerus of the book of Esther is thought
+to be Xerxes the Great. On this view the events narrated occurred some
+time before the second colony came to Jerusalem and the story would
+fall between chapters 6 and 7 of the book of Ezra. The book throws
+much light on the condition of the Jews in captivity and also upon the
+social and political conditions existing in the Persian Empire at this
+period. While the name of God does not occur in the book, his
+providential care over his people is everywhere manifested. The
+deliverance of the Jews from death by the intercessions of Esther
+became the occasion of the establishment of the feast of Purim which
+ever after commemorated it in Jewish history. These four books should
+be read following the outline given in "The Bible Book by Book."
+
+Synagogues and Synagogue Worship. The emphasis which Ezra gave to the
+study of the Book of the Law no doubt did much to destroy idolatry and
+led to a new devotion to the word of God, at least to the letter of
+the law. This led to the institution or the re-establishment of the
+Synagogue. There had no doubt been from the early times local
+gatherings for worship, but the Synagogue worship does not seem to
+have been in use before the captivity, After the captivity, however,
+they built many of them, in every direction. They were places of
+worship where they engaged in reading the law, in exhortation and in
+prayer. The reading and expounding of the law became a profession,
+those following this calling being designated "lawyers."
+
+The Significance of the Period, In all the annals of national life
+there is probably not a more significant sweep of history than that of
+the Jews during the restoration which covers a little more than ninety
+years. With the captivity their national life had ceased and now that
+they are back in their own land they do not seem to make any attempt
+to reestablish the nation. Stress is now put upon the true worship of
+God and it is beginning to dawn upon them that the glory of God will
+be manifested in some higher spiritual sense than had been expected.
+They had seen the decay of the mightiest material kingdoms, while
+spiritual Israel lived on, and were seeing how God and his cause and
+those whom he saves can not die. The Old Testament, therefore, closes
+with the Jews back at their old home, with the temple restored, with
+the sacred writings gathered together, with the word of God being
+taught and with the voice of the living prophet still in the land.
+After this followed a somewhat varied history of about 400 years
+through all of which the light of the hope of the coming Messiah never
+died out.
+
+Lessons of the Period. The discussions of the previous sections have
+brought out some of the significant teachings of this period, but the
+following statement of lessons will probably serve to stimulate
+thought. (1) God will use as his instruments others than his own
+people. See Cyrus and Artaxerxes. (2) God's work is both (a)
+constructive, as when he builds up, inspires, edicts and qualifies
+workers, and (b) destructive, as when he overcomes opposition. (3) A
+consecrated man is courageous and uncompromising, but none the less
+cautious. See Nehemiah. (4) There is a wise providence of God that
+includes all nations and displays perfect righteousness, perfect
+knowledge and perfect power. See the book of Esther, also the others.
+(5) Contentment may be false and harmful. See Hag. and Zech. (6) The
+comparative strength of the friends and enemies of a proposition does
+not determine the results. God must also be considered. (7) It pays to
+serve God. the Moral Governor of the world. See Mal. (8) The safety of
+a people demands that the marriage relation shall be sacredly
+regarded. (9) A rigid observance of the Sabbath is vital to the growth
+and well-being of a nation. (10) Mere forms of religion are
+displeasing to God unless accompanied by ethical lives. (11) Rules
+that oppress the poor court the Divine disfavor.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The lessons given in the last paragraph.
+(2) The decree of Cyrus. (3) The adversaries of Judah (Ezr. ch. 4;
+Neh. ch. 4), who they were and what they did. (4) The reforms of Ezra.
+(5) The reforms of Nehemiah. Compare them one by one with those of
+Ezra. (6) The traits of character of Ezra and Nehemiah. (7) Nehemiah's
+plan of work in rebuilding the temple. (8) The traits of character
+displayed by Vashti, Mordecai, Esther and Haman. (9) The Spirit of the
+return. Compare with the story of Ezra. Is. ch. 40, 48:20-21; Dan.
+9:20; Ps. 137. Point out (a) the religious impulse, (b) the national
+pride, (c) the local attractions. (10) The rebuilding of the temple
+and of the wall. (11) The different sins rebuked by Malachi. (12) The
+kings of Babylon since Nebuchadnezzar, (b) [sic] The feast of
+Belshazzar, Dan. ch. 5, (c) The conquering of Babylon, (d)
+Organization of the kingdom under Darius, Dan. ch. 6, and of
+Ahasuerus, Esth.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XVII.
+
+From Malachi to The Birth of Christ.
+
+No Scripture.
+
+The Close of the Old Testament History. We now come to the close of
+Old Testament history and prophecy. Ezra and Nehemiah were at
+Jerusalem, one the governor and the other the priest of the people.
+Jerusalem and the temple had been restored and the worship of Jehovah
+re-established. This was about 445 B. C. and Judea was still under
+Persian rule. From this date to the opening of New Testament history,
+a period of about four hundred years, there are no inspired records.
+Neither prophet nor inspired historian is found among the Jews and
+there is no further development of revealed religion. It was, however,
+a period of vast importance and the history of the chosen people may
+be traced from secular sources. For convenience the history of the
+period may be divided into four sections: (1) The Persian Period. (2)
+The Greek Period. (3) The Period of Independence. (4) The Roman
+Period.
+
+The Persian Period. The Persians continued their rule over Judea a
+little more than one hundred years after the close of Old Testament
+history. But in 332 B. C. Alexander the Great was enthroned over the
+monarchy, then under Darius, and inaugurated the era of Grecian
+supremacy. During this period, however, little happened in Palestine
+that was of much interest.
+
+Under the Rule of the Greek Kings. Alexander the Great seemed to have
+formed a good opinion of the Jews and granted them many special
+favors. He regarded them as good citizens and gave them privileges as
+first class citizens of Alexandria and encouraged them to settle
+throughout his empire. Upon his death his kingdom was broken up into
+four kingdoms (Macedonia, Thrace. Syria and Egypt) and Judea was
+alternately under the rule of Syria and Egypt. All Palestine was
+permeated with the influence of the Greek language and philosophy. It
+was  while Judea was  under the rule of Ptolemy of Egypt that the
+Septuagint version of the Old Testament was made. This made possible
+the reading of the Hebrew Scriptures in the Greek language and was one
+of the greatest missionary works of all times.
+
+The Period of Independence.   In 170 B.C. Antiochus Epiphiones began
+to oppress the Jews in an attempt to force them into idolatry and
+about 167 B.C. Judas Maccabeus began to lead a revolt which two years
+later was successful in throwing off the foreign yoke and establishing
+the independence of the Jews. They were now governed by a succession
+of rulers from the Maccabean family for a period of one hundred years.
+These rulers performed the double function of both civil and
+ecclesiastical head of the people. They were descendants of David and
+under their leadership Edom, Samaria and Galilee were added to their
+territory and much of the splendor and wealth of the golden days of
+the kingdom was restored.
+
+The Roman Period. This period may be said to have begun in B.C. 63 and
+to have extended to A.D. 70. In B.C. 63 Pompey overran Palestine,
+destroyed Jerusalem and brought the Jews under Roman rule. By this
+conquest Jewish independence was forever lost. In B.C. 37 Herod the
+Great was appointed by the Roman emperor to the position of ruler of
+Palestine. In B.C. 20-18 he rebuilt the temple at Jerusalem, though it
+(all the buildings and walls) was not finished until many years after
+his death. He also built the temple of Samaria and continued to reign
+until Christ came and much longer.
+
+The Entire Period. This entire period spans the time from the history
+of Nehemiah and the prophecy of Malachi to the coming of the Messiah.
+It opens with the Persian empire supreme and closes with Augustus
+Caesar as the head of Rome, the mistress of the world. When Jesus came
+Herod the Great governed Palestine and all the world was at peace.
+
+The End of the Period. There are many points of view from which to
+study the conditions existing at the close of this period. But for our
+purpose it will probably suffice to consider (1) some signs of
+decadence or defects; (2) some hopeful signs. The facts touching these
+matters are to be gathered not only from secular history but from the
+life and work of Jesus as they are seen at work either for or against
+the progress of his work. (1) Unpropitious conditions. Among the signs
+of decadence or errors that needed correction should be noted: (a)
+There was a defective view of God. They regarded God as too far away;
+(b) They laid too much stress upon outward obedience and, thereby,
+left no place for motive in their service; (c) This led them to rest
+salvation upon a system of works and to multiply rules of obedience;
+(d) This led to too great demand for respect for the learned and of
+subordination to them; (e) The Jews thought that they had a special
+place in the salvation of God and as children of Abraham only felt the
+need of national deliverance. (2) Hopeful signs. Several conditions
+that bespeak good should be noted: (a) The Jews did have the truest
+conception of religion to be found anywhere in the world; (b) Their
+religion was a matter of deep concern to them and they showed an
+undying devotion to their religious institutions; (c) There was a keen
+sense of the worth of the individual; (d) There were many synagogues
+which led to a zeal to proselyte foreigners and opened the way for
+Gentile evangelism; (e) There was a widespread expectation of the
+Messiah whom the whole world could receive as its spiritual king; (f)
+The home life of the Jews was strongly religious and children were
+held in high esteem.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The career of Alexander the Great. (2)
+The reign of Ptolemy Soter and Ptolemy Philadelphus in Egypt. (3) The
+acts of Antiochus Epiphanes. (4) The story of Judas Maccabeus. (5) The
+story of the subjection of Judea to Rome. (6) The persecution of the
+Jews under the several rulers of the different countries to which they
+were subject during this period. (7) The religious parties of the
+period, especially the Pharisees and Sadducees.
+
+Literature. The information necessary to understand these topics may
+be found in any one of the better Bible dictionaries, in Josephus and
+more or less in text books on Biblical history such as Blakie.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XVIII.
+
+From the Birth to The Ascension of Jesus.
+
+The Four Gospels.
+
+The Story of this Period. It is common to designate this period as the
+"Life of Christ," meaning the time he spent on earth. There is,
+however, no scripture life of Jesus. The gospels do not claim to
+present such a life. They do, however, give us a vast amount of
+material and though different in purpose and consequently in content,
+they do present the same general picture of Jesus. The matter of
+arranging the material in an orderly way presents much difficulty. If
+a topographical outline is attempted it can only be approximately
+correct because at some points the gospels leave us in uncertainty or
+in ignorance. If a chronological outline is attempted there is no less
+of uncertainty.
+
+The following outline, however, may be accepted as a scheme of study
+for the period. (1) The childhood and youth of Jesus. From the birth
+of Jesus, B.C. 4 to the beginning of the ministry of John the Baptist,
+A.D. 26. (2) The beginning of Christ's ministry. From the beginning of
+John's ministry to Christ's first public appearance in Jerusalem, A.D.
+27. (3) The early Judean ministry. From his first public appearance in
+Jerusalem to his return to Galilee, A.D. 27. (4) The Galilean
+ministry. From the return to Galilee to the final departure for
+Jerusalem, A.D., 29. (5) The Perean Ministry. From the departure from
+Galilee to the final arrival in Jerusalem, A.D. 30. (6) From the final
+arrival in Jerusalem to the resurrection, April, A.D. 30. (7) The
+forty days. From the resurrection to the ascension. May, A.D. 30.
+
+The Childhood and Youth of Jesus. (1) _The long preparation for his
+coming_. The prophets had most emphatically proclaimed his coming and
+all things had from the beginning been divinely directed so that
+preparation might be made for his advent. His human ancestry had been
+selected and prepared. When the time drew near for him to appear, the
+coming of John the Baptist his forerunner, was announced to Zacharias
+his father (Lu. 1:5-25). This was quickly followed by the announcement
+of the birth of Jesus to Mary his mother (Lu. 1:26-38) and soon
+thereafter to Joseph, the espoused husband of Mary (Matt. 1:18-25).
+The beautiful story of his birth is told in the second chapter of
+Luke.
+
+
+(2) _The infancy_. Of Jesus infancy we have several facts and
+incidents, (a) The appearance of the angels to the shepherds and the
+shepherds' visit to the babe, Lu. 2:8-20. (b) The circumcision at
+eight days old, Lu. 2:21. (c) The presentation in the temple where he
+was recognized by Simeon, Lu. 2:22-32. (d) The visit of the wise men
+(Matt. 2:1-12) and (e) The flight into Egypt, Matt. 2:13-23.
+
+(3) _His boyhood and youth_. This is commonly called the years of
+silence: (a) We have the record of his parents' settlement in the city
+of Nazareth, Matt. 2:23; (b) We know that he had a normal growth, Lu.
+2:40; (c) At twelve years old he was remarkably developed and from his
+reply to his mother we may infer that he was conscious of his mission,
+Lu. 2:41-50; (d) From Luke 2:50 we may infer something of the spirit
+which possessed him during the rest of his private life; (e) We also
+know his occupation (Mk.6:3).
+
+_The Beginning of Christ's Ministry_. Here are several matters of
+importance. (1) _The ministry of John the Baptist_ (Matt 3:1-12; Mk.
+1:2-8; Lu. 3:1-18; John 1:6-33) who announced Christ's coming and
+prepared a people for him. This he did by preaching repentance and by
+baptising them as a profession of repentance and as a sign that they
+were forgiven. (2) _The Baptism of Jesus_. (Mt. 3:13-17; Mk. 1:9-11;
+Lu. 3:21-23; John 1:29-34.) At this time he put off the life of
+seclusion and entered upon his public career. He also received the
+Father's attestation to his sonship and the special equipment of the
+Holy Spirit for his work by which also John knew him to be the
+Messiah, John 1:33. By this act he also set the stamp of approval on
+John's work and showed that he was not in competition with John. (3)
+_The temptation of Jesus_ (Mt. 4:1-11; Mk, 1:12-13; Lu. 4:1-13). We
+are given the place and length of time of this temptation, also three
+of the temptations and how they were met. In Heb. 2:18 and 5:18 we
+have some light on the purpose of this trial. It is probable, however,
+that all the import of it cannot be fully understood. (4) _The work of
+Jesus begun_. Here it is necessary to study two things: (a) The
+winning of his first six disciples (John 1:35-51); (b) _His first
+miracle_ (John 2:1-11). At this point it will also be of help to call
+to mind that the method of Jesus was to preach, teach and heal (Mt.
+4:23). At the close of the marriage feast, which usually lasted six or
+seven days, Jesus went down to Capernaum (John 2:12).
+
+The Early Judean Ministry. The records of this period are very brief
+and may be studied under three heads, (1) _The incidents at Jerusalem
+during the first Passover of Christ's public ministry_. The two
+principal incidents were the cleansing of the temple (John 2:13-22)
+and the conversation with Nicodemus, Jno. 3:1-31. (2) _The work out in
+Judea_, where he won and baptized many disciples, whereupon John was
+led to make testimony to Jesus at Aenon, John 3:22-36. (3) _His
+successful work in Samaria_, concerning which there is given the story
+of his message to the woman at the well and of his two days' stay at
+Sychar. The period is made notable by two of the greatest discourses
+of all his ministry: (a) that to Nicodemus; (b) that to the woman at
+Jacob's well.
+
+The Gallilean Ministry. This is by far the longest and most important
+period of Christ's work. It is not wholly confined to Galilee. For
+during this time he certainly attends the feast at Jerusalem and also
+makes some excursions into the north country. If the study of the last
+period was embarrassed because of the scarcity of material, this one
+is all the more so because of the amount and variety of it. The
+following outline will, however, simplify the study. (1) _The
+beginning of his work in Galilee_. (Matt 4:12-25; 8:2-4, 14-17;
+14:3-5. Mk. 1:14-45; 6:17-18; Lu. 4:14-3; 16; John 4:43-54). In this
+section we have the account of (a) John's imprisonment and of Christ's
+arrival in Galilee; (b) of the healing of the nobleman's son, and his
+settlement at Capernaum; (c) of the call of four fishermen and many
+miracles wrought at Capernaum; (d) of his first brief tour of Galilee.
+
+(2) _The antagonism of the scribes and Pharisees_. (Matt 9:1-17,
+12:1-14; Mk. 2:1-3:6; Lu. 5:17-6:11; John ch. 5). The more important
+matters of this record are: (a) The healing of the paralytic; (b)
+Matthew's call and feast; (c) the healing of the man at the pool of
+Bethsaida; (d) the story of the disciples in the grain fields and (e)
+the healing of the withered hand. In all these there is indicated the
+rising hostility to Jesus and his method, especially as regards his
+claim of power to forgive sins and in his attitude toward the despised
+classes and toward the Sabbath.
+
+(3) _The organization of his kingdom_. (Matt. 12:15-21, 10:2-4;
+chs. 5-7; Mk. 3:7-19; Lu. 6:2-49.) The fame of Jesus began to spread
+and it became necessary for him to create an organization to carry
+forward his work. This was done by calling out his twelve apostles and
+outlining to them the principles of his kingdom. This he did in the
+sermon on the mount.
+
+(4) _The second tour of Galilee_. (Matt. 8:5-13; 11:2-30;
+Lu. 7:1-8:3.) The narration here gives the stories (a) of the
+Centurion's servant and the widow's son of Nain, (b) of John's last
+message and (c) of Jesus anointed by the sinful woman.
+
+(5) _His teachings and miracles by the Sea of Galilee_.
+(Matt. 12:22-13:53, 8:23-34, 9:18-34; Mk. 3:19-5:43; Lu. 8:4-56.) In
+this section we have a large group of parables with their varied
+teachings and four very interesting miracles: (a) The stilling of the
+tempest; (b) The healing of the Gadarene demoniacs; (c) The story of
+Jainus' daughter; (d) Two dumb and a blind man.
+
+(6) _The third tour of Galilee_. (Matt. 13:34-15:20, 9:35-11:1;
+Mk. 6:1-7:23; Lu. 9:1-17; John ch. 6.) Leaving Capernaum Jesus again
+came to his own city, Nazareth, where the people acknowledged the
+marvel of his wisdom and of his power but again rejected him-this time
+because of their knowledge of his lowly birth and unpretentious youth.
+Upon this rejection, Jesus and his disciples made another circuit
+amongst the cities and towns of Galilee. This tour is made notable by
+several incidents: (a) We have the sending out of the twelve on a tour
+of preaching, healing and raising the dead; (b) The story of the death
+of John the Baptist, who was the first New Testament person to suffer
+martyrdom for his conviction; (c) Two great miracles, that of feeding
+the five thousand and of walking on the sea; (d) Two great discourses
+of Jesus, that on "The Bread of Life" and on "Eating with unwashed
+hands."
+
+(7) _His first retirement into the north and return to the sea of
+Galilee_. (Matt. 15:21-16:12; Mk. 7:24-8:26). Jesus went up into the
+coast of Tyre and Sidon where he healed the daughter of the
+Syrophoenician woman. On the return trip he passed through Decapolis
+where he healed a deaf and dumb man and performed many other miracles.
+After his return we have the record of the feeding of the four
+thousand, of his encountering the Pharisees about his authority and
+the story of the blind man of Bethsaida.
+
+(8) _The second retirement to the north and return to
+Capernaum_. (Matt. 16:13-18 end; Mk. 8:27-9 end; Lu. 9:18-50). Jesus
+again journeys into the north and came into the parts of Caesarea
+Philippi where he drew from Peter the great confession, predicted his
+coming death, was transfigured before  the favored three and healed
+the lunatic boy. On his return, as he neared Capernaum, he again
+foretold his death and resurrection and after he arrived at Capernaum,
+we have recorded the story of the coin in the fish's mouth and his
+discourse on humility, offenses and forgiveness.
+
+(9) _Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles_. (John chs. 7-8). By this time
+the joyous season of the Feast of Tabernacles drew near and his
+brothers, who though they did not believe in his deity, seemed to have
+some pride in him and urged him to go up among the people and make a
+display of his power. This he refused to do but went up secretly,
+probably with the hope of escaping the antagonism that was now being
+manifested toward him. There was, however, great excitement at
+Jerusalem concerning him and he found it necessary to go into the
+temple and boldly proclaim the teachings of his kingdom. These
+teachings may be studied under four heads: (a) The teaching of the
+first day and the division of the Jews concerning him; (b) The story
+of the adulterous woman; (c) His teaching concerning himself as the
+"Light of the World." He probably looked upon the great light over the
+treasury of the Lord's house which burned each night in commemoration
+of the cloud of fire that always guided and lighted Israel in the
+wilderness and was reminded of his own service for humanity and was
+prompted to this discourse; (d) His discourse on spiritual freedom and
+true children of Abraham.
+
+
+
+The Perean Ministry. At the close of the Feast of Tabernacles Jesus
+returned to Galilee where he seems to have gathered around him a
+little company of loyal followers and made ready for his final
+departure to Jerusalem where he was to meat the death already
+foretold. The incidents of this period occurred during the journey.
+The material easily falls into three parts marking distinct sections
+of time. (1) _From the departure from Jerusalem to the close of the
+Feast of Dedication_. (Matt. 19:1-2, 8:18-22; Mk. 10:1; Lu. ch. 10;
+John ch.s 9-10). This is one of the most interesting sections of all
+and records several incidents of far-reaching importance: (a) The
+story of the healing of the man born blind and the investigation of it
+by the Sanhedrin; (b) The story of the sending out of the seventy and
+their return is told. As the Lord's work drew near its close, he felt
+hat others should be sent out to do a like work to his own; (c) The
+story of the Good Samaritan and of his visit to Martha and Mary; (d)
+The allegory of the Good Shepherd; (e) The report of his visit to the
+Feast of Dedication.
+
+(2) _From the Feast of Dedication to the withdrawal to Ephraim_. (Lu.
+11:1-17:10; John 11:1-54). This section of the period is even more
+crowded with activity than was the former one. It is very difficult,
+therefore, to refer here to anything like all that is recorded of the
+period. Among The subjects discussed the following are the most
+important: (a) The true nature of prayer and the follies and
+hypocrisies of the Pharisees, Lu. ch. 11; (b) The danger of hypocrisy,
+of denying Christ, of covetousness and of the judgments of Christ, Lu.
+ch. 12; (c) The need and nature of repentance, the proper use of the
+Sabbath, the number that shall be saved and the fate of Jerusalem, Lu.
+ch. 13; (d) The law of conduct in the matter of feasts and counting
+the cost of discipleship, Lu. ch. 14; (e) Three parables of grace and
+two parables of warning, Lu. chs. 15-16; (f) Forgiveness and faith,
+Lu. 7:1-10; (g) The raising of Lazarus and withdrawal to Ephraim, John
+ch. 11.
+
+(3) _From the withdrawal to Ephraim to the final arrival at
+Jerusalem_. (Matt. chs. 13-20; 26:8-13; Mk. ch. 10; 14:3-9;
+Lu. 17:11-19:28; John 11:55-12:11). This section is notable for the
+preponderance of teaching over the miracles reported. There are two
+miracles, that of healing ten lepers and the blind man of Jericho. The
+following show how large a place is given to teaching: (a) Concerning
+the coming of the kingdom; (b) concerning prayer, illustrated by the
+importunate widow and the Pharisee and publican; (c) Concerning
+divorce; (d) the blessing of little children; (e) the ambitions of
+James and John; (g) the visit to Zachaeus; (h) the parable of the
+pounds and the anointing of Jesus for burial.
+
+The Final Ministry in Jerusalem. Of all the periods of the life of
+Christ this is the most significant. The gospels put most stress upon
+it and particularly upon his trial and death. The disciples soon
+learned to triumph in the cross, the seeming defeat out of which
+Jesus, through his resurrection, snatched victory. Everything recorded
+of this period has a ring of the tragical and seemed a preparation for
+the coming doom he was soon to meet. The material readily divides
+itself into three sections or periods. (1) _From the final arrival in
+Jerusalem to the last hours of private intercourse with his disciples_.
+(Matt. 21:11-26:16; Mk. chs. 11-13; 14: 1, 2, 10, 11; Lu. 19:29-22:6;
+John 12:12 end). Like every other section of his active ministry among
+the people this has in it some teachings and some miracles. The
+greatest act of all was, perhaps, the triumphal entry of Jesus into
+Jerusalem as king of the Jews. In this act he openly accepted the
+position of Messiah.
+
+There is one important miracle, that of cursing and withering the fig
+tree. Some consider that a miraculous power was also used in the
+cleansing of the temple. The teachings may be grouped as follows: (a)
+The question about Christ's authority and his reply by question and
+the three parables of warning; (b) Three questions by the Jews and
+Christ's unanswerable question; (c) Seven woes against the scribes and
+Pharisees and the widow's mite; (d) The Gentiles seeking and the Jews
+rejecting Jesus; (e) a discourse on the destruction of Jerusalem and
+the end of the world; (f) the last prediction of his death and the
+conspiracy of Judas and the chief priests.
+
+(2) Christ's last hours with his disciples. (Matt. 26:17-35; Mk.
+14:12-31; Lu. 22:7 end; John chs. 13-17). Jesus has now withdrawn from
+the crowd and is alone with his disciples giving to them his final
+words of instruction and comfort. The whole of the material of this
+section seems to be surrounded by an atmosphere of sacredness that
+almost forbids our looking in upon its little company. This last
+evening that Jesus and the little group of disciples were together,
+is, however, so important that it is reported by the apostles. All the
+incidents of the evening seem to center around the institution of the
+last or Paschal Supper. But for the sake of study and as an aid to
+memory the events may be divided into three groups, (A) The supper.
+The order of events in connection with it seem to be: (1) the strife
+of the disciples for the place of honor; (2) the beginning of the
+Passover meal; (3) the washing of the disciples' feet; (4) the
+pointing out of the betrayer; (5) the departure of Jesus from the
+table; (6) the institution of the Lord's upper.
+
+(B) The final instructions to the disciples. It is difficult to
+analyze these discourses. There are running through them one thread of
+teaching and one of comfort. In some sections one element seems to
+predominate and in other the other, To illustrate; chapters 13 and 15
+of John seem to be more largely taken up with teaching, while chapters
+14 and 16 have a larger element of words intended to comfort them. The
+effort seems to be to convince them that it is better for them for him
+to go away, that their spiritual fellowship with him would be more
+complete and their understanding and power more perfect because of the
+Comforter whom he would send.
+
+(C) The final or intercessory prayer for them. With the close of this
+prayer, in which he prayed for their preservation, their preparation
+for service and their final union with him in his glory, and which he
+prayed that they might have fullness of joy (John 17:13) his ministry
+with them ended till after his death.
+
+(3) _Christ's suffering for the sins of the world_. (Matt. 26:36-27
+end: Mk. 14:32-15 end; Lu. 22:39-23 end; John chs. 18-19). From some
+good text on the Life of Christ or from the critical commentaries, the
+pupils can find a discussion of this section. The following outline
+will, however, be sufficient for our purpose here: (A) The agony in
+the garden and the betrayal and arrest. This picture of the suffering
+of soul experienced by the Savior in which he also yielded himself to
+the will of the Father stands out in blessed contrast against the
+weakness of his sleeping friends and the unspeakable criminality of
+the betrayer. Even in his arrest Jesus once more finds opportunity to
+show himself merciful in healing the ear of Malchus thereby,
+counteracting the injury caused by the folly or rashness of one of his
+friends.
+
+(B) The Jewish trial. The order of this trial seems to have been
+somewhat as follows: (1) A preliminary trial before Annus; (2) A trial
+before day with only part of the Sanhedrin present; (3) A trial before
+the whole Sanhedrin at daybreak. Knowing his rights Jesus several
+times refused to act. (1) He refused to bear testimony because no
+legal charge had been made against him. (2) He refused to testify
+against himself which was within his right. (3) He demanded that they
+bring witnesses because that was just according to law. These last
+three points at which Jesus claimed and acted upon his rights instead
+of upon their request shows the tendencies of the trial to be unfair
+and illegal. If one understands the Jewish law of trial it will be
+easy to see how glaringly out of harmony with the law this trial was.
+There are at least ten illegalities in it.
+
+(C) The Roman trial. This whole story abounds in evidences of the
+prejudice and moral degeneracy of the Jewish leaders. They hated Roman
+rule past all words to tell and yet would pretend loyalty to Caesar to
+carry out their wicked purpose. By this means they put Pilate in a
+position that to release Jesus would make him appear to be untrue to
+Caesar in releasing one announced to be Caesar's enemy. The trial may
+be studied in the light of the different ones before whom he was
+tried. (1) The public and private examination before Pilate. (2) The
+examination before Herod. (3) The second examination before Pilate.
+This also was partly private and partly public. Again, following he
+outline of John, we may consider the events as they happened
+alternately outside and inside of the praetorium.
+
+(D) The crucifixion. It would be difficult to exaggerate the cruelty
+and torture of crucifixion. "It was the most cruel and shameful of all
+punishments." The disciples, however, dwell most of all upon the shame
+of it. Such a death in the eyes of a Jew was the sign of the curse of
+God. Several things are of importance and should be remembered. (1)
+The throng that saw it. A few were friends, some were bitter enemies
+and many were curious on-lookers. Altogether there was a great crowd
+and Jesus was derided and mocked in his death. (2) The story of the
+two thieves who were crucified with Jesus and especially the
+conversion of the one who repented. (3) The seven sayings of Jesus
+while he is on the cross reveal his spirit and planning while
+undergoing this human outrage. They are worthy of careful study. (4)
+The miraculous occurrences of the day. There are three outstanding
+events that should be thought of as divine manifestations. They are:
+the darkness that covered the earth for three hours; the rending of
+the veil of the temple and the earthquake. The people were deeply
+moved by these marvelous signs. (5) The element of grace seen in it
+all. This is seen in the punishment of the innocent Jesus, while the
+guilty Barabbas went free; the saving of the guilty but penitent thief
+and several of the sayings of the cross.
+
+(E) The burial and tomb. The burial was very hurried, lest they should
+break a Jewish law. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus together took
+him from the cross and buried him and the officers made his grave as
+secure as possible and placed a guard over it. All this they did
+because of his saying that he would rise again in three days.
+
+The Forty Days. (Matt. ch. 28; Mk. ch. 16; Lu. 23:56-24 end; John chs.
+20-21; Acts 1:3-12; 1 Cor. 15:5-7.) It is hard to divide this period
+into sections in such a way as not to present many difficulties. The
+several events may, however, be grouped under the following heads. (1)
+The early morning. (2) The walk to Emmaus and appearance to Peter. (3)
+The appearance to the ten when Thomas is absent. (4) The appearance to
+the eleven, Thomas being present. (5) The appearance to seven
+disciples by the sea of Galilee. (6) Several other appearances
+mentioned by Paul. (7) The last appearance, when the commission was
+given and he ascended. The order of events as outlined cannot be
+assured with any certainty. Then, too, there are differences of detail
+as to the occurrences here outlined. Each of them, therefore, presents
+its own difficulties. The most perplexing of all these problems is the
+arrangement of the events of the resurrection morning and especially
+the movements of the various women mentioned.
+
+Touching the whole resurrection problem all of the gospels agree upon
+several important matters: (1) In giving no description of the
+resurrection itself; (2) that the evidence of it began with the
+women's visit to the sepulcher in the early morning; (3) that the
+first sign was the removal of the stone; (4) that they saw angels
+before they saw the Lord; (5) that manifestations were granted to none
+but disciples; (6) that the disciples were not expecting such
+manifestations; (7) that at first they received these manifestations
+with hesitancy and doubt; (8) that these appearances were made to all
+kinds of witnesses, male and female, individuals and companies; (9)
+that they were so convinced of his resurrection and appearance to them
+that nothing could cause them to doubt it.
+
+The resurrection was necessary to show that we had not a dead and
+suffering Christ but a living and triumphant one. "The ascension is
+the necessary completion of the resurrection" and is presupposed in
+all New Testament teaching. Jesus is everywhere thought of as having
+all power and is expected to return again from the presence of the
+Father with great glory.
+
+Teachings of the Period. The most of the emphasis is put on the final
+teachings in connection with his death and resurrection. It may be
+well, however, to gather together a few truths touching his whole
+career. (1) _Those concerning his humanity_: (a) He grew and developed
+as any normal child; (b) His education and work was that of any normal
+person; (c) But the whole of his childhood was set in divine
+manifestations; (d) In life he showed all the effects of hunger,
+sorrow, etc., found in any normal man. (2) Those concerning his
+super-human power. He exercised power over: (a) Physical nature; (b)
+sickness and physiological defects; (c) life and death; (d) demons and
+all spiritual powers; (e) over sin to forgive it. (3) _Those found In
+his general teachings_. There are many of these but the following are
+important to remember: (a) The truthfulness of the Old Testament
+scriptures; (b) The holiness and goodness and love of God; (c) The
+sinfulness of man and his need of salvation; (d) The value of
+repentance and faith as a means of bringing men into the favor of God;
+(e) His own duty and oneness with the Father; (f) The work and power
+of the Holy Spirit; (g) The purpose and work of his kingdom and
+church; (h) The power and nature of prayer; (i) The value of spiritual
+and the worthlessness of formal worship; (j) The true way to greatness
+through service.
+
+(4) _The teachings growing out of the crucifixion_: (a) It proves that
+God will forgive; (b) It shows the great evil of sin; (c) It shows the
+need of cleansing before we can enter heaven; (d) It shows God's value
+of the soul; (e) It shows the value of salvation and the worth of
+eternal life; (f) It furnishes a motive to turn from sin that so
+offends God and endangers us; (g) It brings hope of forgiveness and
+cleansing.
+
+(5) _The teaching of the resurrection and ascension_: (a) that Jesus
+is in truth God's son; (b) that there is another life; (c) that we
+shall also be resurrected; (d) that we shall know in the next life our
+loved ones of this life; (e) that our lives here have an influence and
+meaning beyond the grave.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) Master all the material as given in this
+chapter, looking carefully into scripture references. (2) Study the
+geography of the country. (3) List all the divine manifestations in
+connection with the birth and childhood of Jesus. (4) Outline the
+entire career of John the Baptist, beginning with the vision to
+Zachariah before his birth. (5) Study in outline the sermon on the
+mount. (6) Find examples showing Christ's power exerted in each of the
+five directions suggested in "2" of "the teachings of the period"
+given above. (7) Discuss any outstanding events in the life of Jesus
+and his disciples that seem to members of the class to be epoch making
+in their influence. (8) Read and discuss Jesus' farewell addresses to
+his disciples. (9) Study carefully the scriptures covering the trial
+and crucifixion of Jesus. (10) Study the scriptures covering the
+period and outline further the events and teachings.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XIX.
+
+From the Ascension to The Church at Antioch.
+
+Acts Chs. 1-12.
+
+The Book of Acts. The book of Acts is the only purely historical book
+of the New Testament. It is as a continuation of the gospel of Luke.
+It follows the fortunes of the infant church and gives us all the
+light we have in regard to its further organization and development,
+but it does not claim to be a complete history of the work of the
+early church. As a history it is as remarkable for what it omits as
+for what it narrates. The central theme is the triumph and progress of
+the gospel in spite of all the opposition and persecution which its
+advocates met. The chief purpose seems to be to show the progress of
+Christianity among the Gentiles and only so much of the work among the
+Jews is given as will authenticate the other. The whole book falls
+into three sections: (1) The church at work in Jerusalem, chs. 1-7.
+(2) The church at work in Palestine, chs, 8-12. (3) The church at work
+among the Gentiles, chs. 13-28.
+
+The material of the period which we are now to study includes the
+first two points and should be read in connection with the following
+outline:
+
+I. _The church at work in Jerusalem, chs_. 1-7.
+
+1. Preparation for witnessing, 1:1-2:4. Under this there is given: (1)
+Christ's last instructions and ascension and (2) The church in the
+upper room including the election of Matthias and the coming of the
+Holy Spirit.
+
+2. The first witnessing. Here are given 2:5-47: (1) The first
+witnessing, (2) the first message, (3) the first fruit of the
+witnessing.
+
+3. The first persecution 3:1-4:31. Here we have the first persecution
+and the occasion for it.
+
+4. The Blessed state of the church, 4:32-5 end   There is great love
+and unity and God indorses their work by the destruction of Ananias
+and his wife and by the release of apostles from prison.
+
+5. The first deacons, 6:1-7.
+
+6. The first martyr 6:8-7 end.
+
+II. The church at work in Palestine, chs. 8-12.
+
+1. Witnesses scattered, 8:1-4.
+
+2. Philip witnesses in Samaria and Judea, 8:5-40.
+
+3. The Lord wins new witnesses, 9:1-11:18. (1) Saul. (2) Aeneas, etc.
+(3) Dorcas, Mary, etc. (4) Cornelius.
+
+4. Center of labor changed to Antioch, 11:19 end.
+
+5. The witnesses triumph over Herod's persecution, ch. 12.
+
+The Principle Events of this Period. Many things which on the surface
+seem to be of little importance, contributed much toward shaping the
+destiny of the early church. The following, however, should be
+remembered as the great outstanding events of the time. (1) The
+ascension with the incidents connected with it. (2) The Baptism of the
+Holy Ghost with the consequent sermon of Peter and its results. (3)
+The first persecution of the Apostles, with Peter's sermon and the
+measures taken by the Sanhedrin to stop the movement. (4) The
+punishment of Ananias and his wife. (5) The appointment of the first
+deacons. (6) The martyrdom of Steven. (7) The work of Philip in
+Samaria and the conversion of the Eunuch. (8) The conversion of Saul
+of Tarshish. (9) The conversion of Cornelius with connected events.
+(10) The church's acknowledgement of the validity of this work among
+the Gentiles, Acts 11:18. (11) The great work at Antioch. (12) The
+martyrdom of James and the death of Herod.
+
+The Organization and Control of the Early Church. Jesus had set up his
+church and left it his final commission. Its organization was a matter
+of growth and was increased only as new conditions arose that made it
+necessary to the success and efficiency of their work. They elected,
+at the suggestion of Peter, Matthias to take the place of Judas as one
+of their witnesses. When conditions arose that threatened the success
+of their work, they elected deacons to assist the apostles in caring
+for the more temporal work of the church. In it all it is clear that
+the church as a whole transacted the business. The Apostles no doubt
+had a very good influence but did not assume to dictate to the church
+what did not "please the whole multitude" (Acts 6:5). All
+responsibility was put upon the church as a democratic and
+self-governing body.
+
+The Persecutions of the Church. In the persecutions which Jesus
+suffered the Pharisees took the lead, but the opposition met by the
+early disciples was led by the Sadducees. This was because of the
+doctrine of the resurrection, preached by the apostles. The
+persecutions deepened and widened very rapidly. (1) They were given
+public hearing, commanded not to teach in Jesus' name and after
+threatening were let go. (2) They were released without punishment
+only by the appeal of Gamaliel, a doctor of the law. (3) On account of
+the universal aspect of Christianity, preached by Steven, the
+Pharisees joined the Sadducees in opposing the Christians and their
+joint persecution led to the death of Steven and the scattering of the
+disciples from Jerusalem, 6:8-8:3. (4) The Romans who for the most
+part had been indifferent to the movement also joined the Sanhedrin in
+the attempt to suppress the brethren. Accordingly Herod Agrippa,
+hoping to gain the good will of the Jews, seized the apostle James and
+put him to death and seeing that this made him popular seized Peter
+and would have destroyed him but for divine intervention.
+
+In spite of all this persecution these early Christians made wonderful
+progress. They were unmoved in their purpose to establish their faith.
+They went everywhere preaching the gospel of the kingdom. They openly
+declared that they would not refrain from preaching what they
+conceived to be their duty to God. They boldly threw their doctrine
+into the teeth of their antagonists. Such courage was something new in
+the history of the Jews. They even "rejoiced that they were counted
+worthy to suffer dishonor for his name."
+
+Their Growth and Influence. The courage already mentioned could not
+fail to bear fruit. The second chapter tells of three thousand, added
+to them in one day and then of others day by day. In chapter five it
+is said a multitude of believers both men and women added to them.
+Chapter six says that "the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem
+exceedingly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the
+faith." The priests were for the moat part Sadducees and the fact that
+many of these who had been active in arresting the disciples now came
+to accept their teaching is highly significant touching the matters of
+their success.
+
+Extension of the Gospel to the Gentiles. One of the most interesting
+topics for study found in the records of this period is the way in
+which Christians gradually extended into the borders of the Gentiles.
+Many questions were raised that had to be solved-questions that had
+not been before raised among the followers of Jesus. (1) Philip went
+into Samaria and many of these half-bred Jews believed. Here he was
+following the steps of Jesus who had also met with success and
+introduced his teachings before going outside to those in no wise akin
+to the Jews. (2) Peter and John were sent to Samaria and not only
+approved the work of Philip but bestowed upon these Samaritans the
+Holy Spirit and themselves preached to many Samaritan villages. (3)
+Peter made a tour of certain Judean villages and came down to Joppa
+where he lodged with a tanner and would, according to Jewish law, have
+been unclean. This tends to show that he was coming to see that the
+ceremonial distinctions of the Levites were not so binding. (4) Peter
+preached to Cornelius a Gentile and he and his household received the
+Holy Ghost and baptism and spake with tongues. (5) Having heard
+Peter's explanation of his course the church glorified God and
+acknowledged that God had granted repentance and life to the Gentiles.
+(6) Paul the chosen vessel to bear the Gospel to the Gentiles was
+saved. (7) The work spread to Antioch of Syria and Barnabas was sent
+to investigate it and soon went to Cilicia and brought Paul to Antioch
+and the two labored there a year, then made a visit to Jerusalem to
+carry gifts to the poor and returned to Antioch bringing John Mark.
+This period closes with them still at Antioch.
+
+The Teachings of this Period. (1) Men can succeed in any right cause
+in spite of opposition. (2) Popularity is not required to give one
+success as a Christian work. (3) Small numbers are not a sign of
+weakness and do not foretoken defeat. (4) The gospel truth,
+courageously preached, can win its way into the hardest hearts. (3)
+Consciousness of duty, divinely imposed is the most powerful stimulus
+to action.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The Great Commission, ch. 1. (2) Peter's
+sermon on the day of Pentecost. (3) Stephen's address of defense. (4)
+The liberality of these Christians or their provision for the poor.
+(5) The place of prayer in the work of these disciples. (6) The
+references to the Holy Spirit and his work. (7) The teachings of the
+period concerning Jesus. (8) Concerning the resurrection. (9) All the
+events, persecutions, teachings, etc., mentioned above.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XX.
+
+From Antioch to The Destruction of Jerusalem.
+
+
+Acts 13-28 and all the rest of the New Testament except the  epistles
+of John and Revelation.
+
+The Changed Situation. We have now come to a turning point in the
+whole situation. The center of work has shifted from Jerusalem to
+Antioch, the capital of the Greek province of Syria, the residence of
+the Roman governor of the province. We change from the study of the
+struggles of Christianity in the Jewish world to those it made among
+heathen people. We no longer study many and various persons and their
+labors but center our study upon the life and labors of Paul.
+
+The Divine Call. Certain prophets of the church at Antioch were
+engaged in solemn prayer and worship when the Holy Spirit instructed
+them to send Paul and Barnabas to do the work to which they were
+called. Here, then, the Holy Spirit takes charge of the movement. He
+inaugurates, directs and promotes this work. When the call came it is
+probable that Paul had but little idea of the magnitude of the work
+which he was to do. He was not aware that his work and teaching would
+change the religion and philosophy of the whole world.
+
+The Time and Extent of Paul's Journeys. The most of his work was
+accomplished during three great missionary journeys. The time occupied
+for these great journeys with the distance traveled has been estimated
+as follows: the first journey 1400 miles and three years; the second
+journey 3200 miles and three years; the third journey 3500 miles and
+four years; or a total of 8100 miles representing ten years of labor.
+To this must be added his journey to Rome which required a whole
+winter and was about 2300 miles and many side trips of which we have
+no record. It is also commonly thought that he was released at the end
+of two years at Rome and again entered upon mission work that probably
+lasted four years and carried him again into Macedonia, Asia Minor,
+Crete and Spain.
+
+The First Missionary Journey. (Acts, chs. 13-14). The company
+consisted of Saul and Barnabas and John Mark. They went by way of the
+isle of Cyprus and at Paphos the capital of the island the governor
+was converted and Saul was afterward called Paul. They reached
+Pamphylia and Pisidia in Asia. John Mark left them in Pamphylia and
+returned home. In the cities of Pisidia Paul was persecuted and
+opposed. At Antioch he made a complete break with the Jews and at
+Lystra they stoned him until they thought he was dead. From Derbe the
+missionaries retraced their steps except that they did not go through
+Cyprus on the return to Antioch. Their stay at Antioch was marked by
+an important church council at Jerusalem, Acts 15:1-35. At this
+council it was decided that Gentile Christians were not bound by the
+requirement of the Jewish law. This decision was instrumental in
+determining that Christianity was not simply a new branch of Judaism
+but was a new religion.
+
+Second Missionary Journey. (Acts. 15:36-18:22). Paul proposed that he
+and Barnabas visit the brethren in every city "where he had already
+preached," but he declined to yield to the wish of Barnabas to take
+Mark with them and in consequence separated from Barnabas. He took
+Silas and went overland through Syria and Cilicia to the scene of his
+former labors. At Lystra he was joined by Timothy. He was restrained
+by the Holy Spirit from further work in Asia and called into Europe by
+the "Macedonian call" while at Troas. While in Europe he labored at
+several places, the most conspicuous service being rendered at
+Philippi, Thessalonica and Corinth. Strong churches grew up at each of
+these places to which he later wrote letters. He returned to Antioch
+by way of Ephesus where he spent a little time, and Caesarea, from
+whence he probably visited Jerusalem.
+
+While on this Journey during his long stay at Corinth Paul wrote First
+and Second Thessalonians and probably the book of Galatians also. If
+the time to be devoted to this course will allow, these epistles
+should be read at this point. The author's "The Bible Book by Book"
+will furnish an outline guide for such reading.
+
+Third Missionary Journey. (Acts. 18:33-21:17). How long Paul remained
+at Antioch at the close of the second journey is not known. But when
+he had finished his visit he set out again to revisit some of the
+places formerly touched and to cultivate some new fields. The outline
+and work of this journey may be put down as follows: (1) He passes
+through Galatia and Phrygia strengthening the disciples. (2) His work
+of nearly three years at Ephesus. (3) The trip through Macedonia and
+Greece. (4) The return trip through Macedonia to Jerusalem. Luke seems
+to desire to narrate only what is new and most important. He,
+therefore, goes fully into the work at Ephesus. (1) There was the
+incident of the work of Apollos and the baptism of some of John's
+disciples. (2) Three months work among the Jews. (3) Two years of
+teaching in the school of Tyrannus. (4) A "season" after he sent
+Timotheus and Etastus into Macedonia. The success of this work is seen
+especially in two incidents. (1) The burning of the books of the
+Jewish exorcists which were valued at over $31,000. (2) The checking
+of the sale of images of the idol, Diana, which resulted in a great
+tumult.
+
+After this tumult at Ephesus Paul departed into Macedonia and seems to
+have visited the principal cities and finally arrived at Corinth where
+a plot to kill him was formed. Upon discovering this plot he set out
+on his return trip to Jerusalem, going back through Macedonia. This
+trip is notable for several things. (1) The seven days stay at Troas
+which was significant because of an all night service and the accident
+to Eutychus. (2) The conference at Miletus with the Elders of Ephesus
+in which he reviewed his work among them and indicated to them that
+they would see him no more. (3) A week's stay at Tyre where he was
+persuaded not to go to Jerusalem. (4) Many days spent at Caesarea
+during which Agabus, who had formerly told them of the coming drouth,
+predicted that the Jews of Jerusalem would bind Paul and deliver him
+to the Gentiles. (5) The arrival at Jerusalem where he was kindly
+received by James and the elders.
+
+This journey also was marked by the writing of some of Paul's most
+notable epistles. (1) The First Letter to the Corinthians. He wrote
+this letter while at Ephesus just before leaving for Macedonia. (2)
+The Second Letter to the Corinthians. After Paul came into Macedonia
+he met Titus with tidings from the Corinthians whereupon he wrote them
+this second letter, probably from Philippi. (3) The Letter to the
+Romans. From Macedonia Paul went into Achaia where he stayed three
+months and while staying with Gaius in Corinth (Rom. 16:23; 1 Cor.
+1:14) he wrote this great epistle. The occasion, purpose, outline and
+other information concerning these epistles may be found in "The Bible
+Book by Book".
+
+At Jerusalem. Although Paul was received kindly by the brethren and
+although he took a certain precaution that he might not offend the
+many thousands of Jews that were in Jerusalem at the feast, some
+Asiatic Jews saw him and raised a great tumult. (1) They began to beat
+him and he would no doubt have been killed had he not been rescued by
+Roman soldiers. (2) As a prisoner he was being borne to the Tower of
+Antonia, but on the stairway asked and obtained permission to speak to
+the angry Jews. (3) When they would no longer hear him he was removed
+to the castle and ordered scourged. He saves himself from this by
+claiming his Roman citizenship. (4) He was brought before the Jewish
+Sanhedrin which he threw into confusion by expressing his belief in
+the resurrection and afterwards was put in prison. (5) On account of
+the plot to kill him which was discovered by Paul's nephew he was sent
+away under heavy guard to Caesarea.
+
+Paul at, Caesarea. When Paul reached Caesarea he was under Roman
+jurisdiction. He was allowed some privileges. The most important
+incidents of this two years' imprisonment may be put down somewhat as
+follows. (1) His trial before Felix during which he was prosecuted by
+Tertullus and he himself made a speech of defense. (2) His second
+hearing before Felix, no doubt in private, with his wife Drusilla
+after which he held him in the hope that he would bribe Felix. (3) His
+trial before Festus during which he claimed his right as a Roman
+citizen and appealed to Caesar. (4) He had a hearing before Festus and
+King Agrippa II during which Paul spoke.
+
+Paul's Six Last Addresses. In connection with the story of Paul in
+Jerusalem and Caesarea we have preserved for us six of his last
+addresses. In the light of his imprisonment and eminent danger they
+show his great faith and courage and are given here for study. (1) His
+Speech before the Jewish Mob, Acts 21:1-29. (2) His speech before the
+Jewish council. Acts 22: 30-23:10. (3) His speech before Felix. Acts
+24:10-22. (4) His speech before Felix and his wife Drusilla, Acts
+24:24-27. (5) His speech before Festus, Acts 25:7-11. (6) His speech
+before Festus and King Aggrippa II, Acts 26:1-32.
+
+Paul's Journey to Rome. Paul now takes up his long journey to Rome.
+The voyage consumes most of the winter and three ships are used to
+convey him. (1) From Caesarea to Myra, a city of Lycia. Their ship
+touched at Sidon where Paul was allowed to visit his friends. (2) From
+Myra to the Island of Malta. On this voyage they touched at Fair
+Havens, tried to reach Phenice and had fourteen days of storm. (3)
+They were cast the island of Malta, where they spent three months. (4)
+The journey completed to Rome, going by way of Syracuse, Rhegium,
+Puteoli, Apii Forum and Three Taverns.
+
+Paul at Rome. The Roman Christians came out to meet him at Apii Forum,
+forty-three miles from Rome. Several things should be noticed. (1)
+Paul after three days explained his situation to the Jews and planned
+another day when he would further address them. (2) Next he turned to
+the Gentiles and taught them. (3) He hired (rented) a house and for
+two years had liberty of speech and taught whoever would come to him.
+The story of Acts closes here, but it is commonly believed that Paul
+was released and visited Spain and Asia and later was rearrested and
+brought to Rome again where he was put to death.
+
+The Epistles of this Period. The epistles written during this period
+may be divided into two groups: (1) Those written by Paul; (2) Those
+written by others. Those written by Paul are the following: (1)
+Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians and Philemon. All of these were
+written from Rome during Paul's first imprisonment at Rome and would
+come in the years 62 and 63 A.D. (2) First Timothy and Titus. These
+were probably written in Macedonia about A.D. 66. This is on the
+supposition that Paul was released from the imprisonment at Rome and
+made other preaching tours. (3) Second Timothy. This was written from
+the Roman prison just before his death about A.D. 67 or 68. This would
+have been a second imprisonment and we know nothing of this except by
+tradition. (4) Hebrews. There are many eminent scholars who think some
+other than Paul wrote this book, but it is put down here because it
+was so long and so unanimously considered his and because the point
+against his authorship does not seem fully established. It was written
+some time before A.D. 70, as the temple and its worship were still in
+force.
+
+There are four other letters of the period. (1) The Epistle of James.
+This epistle was probably written about A.D. 50 but some think it was
+written as late as A.D. 62 and it is put in for consideration here
+because of the uncertainty. (2) The First Epistle of Peter, which was
+written about A.D. 66. (3) The Second Epistle of Peter, written about
+A.D. 67 and certainly before the fall of Jerusalem. (4) The Epistle of
+Jude, written about A.D. 66. "The Bible Book by Book" will furnish the
+student with a statement concerning the occasion, purpose, outline of
+contents and other introductory discussions.
+
+Lessons of the Period. (1) One man with proper consecration can be a
+blessing to all the world. (2) The same teaching sometimes wins one
+and repels another. (3) The fact that one is divinely led does not
+guarantee that one may not be wrongly treated by men. (4) Persecution
+can not destroy one's happiness if one is conscious of doing the will
+of God. (5) Strategic centers are the most fruitful fields of mission
+work. (6) False religious beliefs are less tolerant than the true. (7)
+God may save a whole company for the sake of one man. (8) No matter
+what calamity comes to us we may in the midst of it be a source of
+blessing to others.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) The countries visited by Paul. Draw maps
+and indicate his journeys. (2) The history and importance of the
+principal cities visited by him (make a list of them and consult the
+Bible dictionaries). (3) Paul's companions in the work (make a list of
+them and consult the Bible dictionaries). (4) The Apostle Paul
+himself: (a) His birth and childhood; (b) his education; (c) his
+conversion. (5) The persecutions of Paul. (6) The miraculous or
+superhuman element seen in this section. (7) The value of the Roman
+citizenship to Paul. (8) Paul's letters: (a) Name them and tell where
+in these journeys each comes in; (b) learn something of the occasion,
+purpose and outline of each. (9) The other epistles of this period.
+(10) The time and extent of Paul's journeys. (11) The church council
+at Jerusalem. (12) The Roman officers met in this narrative-what sort
+of men, etc. (13) Paul's speeches as given here.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter XXI.
+
+Destruction of The Temple to The Death of The Apostle John.
+
+Epistles of John and Revelation.
+
+The Period of History. This period begins with the fall of the city of
+Jerusalem, A.D. 70, and ends with the death of John, the last of the
+apostles. We have but little scripture touching the conditions of this
+period. Indeed, all of it is inferential so far as the scripture is
+concerned. We may, however, learn much from secular history and
+tradition.
+
+The Destruction of Jerusalem. Jesus had predicted the fall of this
+beloved city. Many frightful massacres of Jews had occurred in Judea
+before the end of the last period, but it was in A.D. 70, about two
+years after Paul's death, that Titus destroyed Jerusalem and the
+temple and Judaism had its downfall. After this the marks of
+separation between Christianity and Judaism became more and more
+distinct. From that time the Jewish religion has never gained
+ascendancy in any country.
+
+From A.D. 70 to A.D. 100. The general history of this period has in it
+little of interest. At the end of the very creditable reign of emperor
+Vespasian, who was on the throne of Rome when Jerusalem fell, Titus,
+called "The delight of the human race," reigned in his stead. During
+his reign occurred that awful eruption of Vesuvius that buried
+Pompeii. Titus was succeeded by his brother Domitian, who was one of
+the greatest tyrants that ever ruled in any country. It is generally
+supposed that John was banished to the Isle of Patmos during the reign
+of Domitian. After Domitian reigned Nerva and Trojan, the last of
+which showed great talent and brought back much of the early vigor to
+the empire. The cyclopedias and histories of Rome will give
+information about the period.
+
+The Literature of the Period. The history of the Christians in this
+period is very obscure because of the scanty literature produced in
+it. What literature we have of these years may be divided into two
+classes: (1) Scripture books. These are the three epistles of John,
+which were written at Ephesus a while before his banishment, probably
+about 80 or 85 A. D., and the Revelation, which was composed while in
+exile on Patmos about 95 or 96 A. D. (2) Some early Christian writings
+not included in the canon of the New Testament. Of this class of
+writings is the Epistle of Clement of Rome to the Corinthians, written
+about 96-98 A.D., and the Epistle of Barnabas and the Teaching of the
+Twelve Apostles, probably written sometime before A.D. 100. This then
+is a period of transition from the Canonical to the Patristic
+literature.
+
+Death of John and End of Scripture History. John was on the Isle of
+Patmos as an exile because of his testimony for Jesus. He seems to
+have lived until the end of the first century and is said to have met
+death in a cauldron of boiling oil. The last of the apostles being now
+dead the canon of the scripture is closed and the power of miracles
+removed and Christianity left to win its own way by means of the
+efforts and the prayers of the disciples and the grace which God
+ordinarily grants to them. Thus ends the scripture history-with a
+completed revelation and the Christian churches set up as a witness
+for Christ.
+
+Lessons of the Period. It is difficult to draw, from a period of which
+we know so little, any certain conclusions. We are perhaps safe in
+making some observations. (1) Christianity must always make its way
+against opposition. (2) The Christian faith gives courage and joy in
+the most trying circumstances. (3) Christianity will finally triumph
+over its enemies.
+
+For Study and Discussion. (1) From the Bible dictionaries,
+cyclopedias, etc., study the reigns of the different Roman emperors of
+this period. (2) Learn something of the nature and contents of the
+Patristic literature mentioned in this discussion. (3) The four New
+Testament books of this period.
+
+
+
+***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BIBLE PERIOD BY PERIOD***
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