October 13, 2009

Texts:
2 Samuel 21-22
2 Corinthians 12

Samuel:
David is not a 21st Century Protestant. Drought is on the land because of the sins of the now dead Saul. To appease God and bring the rains, David agrees to kill seven of Saul's grandchildren. While this makes no sense to us today in our context, it is connected to a world view that is still in effect in parts of the Middle East. The concepts of "honor" and "shame" are mutually exclusive. You either bring honor upon your entire family, or you bring shame. Have you read about "honor killings" in the Middle East?
Can you think of any examples of similar behavior in our own country?
In chapter 22, there is a reprint of Psalm 18. Compare the two. David was both a psalmist and a military strategist.

Corinthians:
Note that Paul is not a 21st Century Protestant either. He is a 1st Century Jewish Mystic. This chapter is not a metaphor. It is his world view and describes his experience. In verse 2, when he says "I know a person in Christ who was caught up to the third heaven..." he is talking about himself.

His near constant theme of strength through weakness and wisdom through foolishness is evident here as well. And the Cross event is the paradigm for our lives.