JEWS WHICH BELIEVE ACTS 21:20

GENTILES WHICH BELIEVE ACTS 21:24

1—Did the Lord approve of Paul’s two-fold position as set forth in I Corinthians 9:20 and 21 “And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the Law, as under the Law, that I might gain them that are under the Law; To them that are without the Law that I might gain them that are without Law”?

2—Compare this declaration of Paul with his condemnation of Peter in Galatians 2:11 to 15, especially these words of Paul to Peter. “I said unto Peter before all, if thou being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?” Tell the difference in the position of Paul and that of Peter.

3—According to the agreement, recorded in Galatians 2:7 and 9, what was to be the difference in the ministry of Peter, James and John on the one hand and Paul on the other?

4—In Galatians 1:17 and Galatians 2:6 we are informed that Paul did not receive either his authority or message from the twelve apostles, but directly from Christ in heaven. Galatians 1:12 and 16. Did the twelve apostles preach to the House of Israel the message of Galatians 3:6, which the risen Christ gave to Paul for the heathen or Gentiles?

5—If these heathen or Gentiles were not under the Law before they were justified, and Christians are not under the Law—according to Romans 6:14—did any one have Divine authority to entangle these justified heathen with any part of the program of the meats and drinks, carnal ordinances and divers baptisms which were imposed upon Israel until the time of the reformation? Hebrews 9:10.

6—What did James mean when he was moved by the Holy Spirit to speak those words recorded in Acts 15:19, “Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God?” Did he not mean that “Gentiles which believed” were not to practice the religious ceremonies which many of the “Jews which believed” were practicing years after Christ had blotted out the handwriting of ordinances, nailing it to His cross?

7—Why did Paul circumcise Timothy 20 years after the death of Christ and at the same time write to the Galatians severely criticizing and condemning them for submitting to circumcision? Galatians 5:3 and 6 and Galatians 6:12 . . . Acts 16:3.

8—James, Peter and others wrote a letter to the Gentiles, according to Acts 15:24, and told them that they were opposed to the Jewish preachers who were saying to justified heathen that they had to be circumcised and keep the law. “To whom we gave no such commandment.” What did the perverted gospel do to the soul?

9—Compare this emphatic declaration of James in the year 53 A.D. with his statement to Paul in the year 60 A.D., as recorded in Acts 21:20. “Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are zealous of the Law; And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after their customs.” Here then we observe one order for the Jews among the Gentiles and an entirely different order for the Gentiles among the Jews during the first 30 years after Pentecost.

10—In Acts 21:22 to 27, we have the record of Paul becoming a Jew in the Jerusalem temple for 7 days, in accordance with his declaration in I Corinthians 9:20. If he were out of the will of God, was he not most inconsistent in condemning Peter . . . Galatians 2:14 . . . and deceived when he said, “I. have fought a good fight”, etc.?

11—If Paul became a Jew for seven days at this time, to please James and others of the 12 apostles, were not all of the apostles out of the will of God, if Paul were acting in the flesh, as some would lead us to believe?

12—If Paul was trying to please the Jews by obeying their wishes at the suggestion of James, do you think he would have displeased them by defiling the temple, inviting Trophimus or any other Gentile to go into the temple during the time of their religious services? We note according to Acts 21:28 and 29 that this is what aroused the wrath of the Jews.

13—Now, if these religious Jews poured out their wrath upon Paul for his message, and James was living, with other apostles, in Jerusalem undisturbed, is this not proof positive that Paul’s commission from Christ and the message which came to him from heaven was different from the God-given ministry to Peter, James and the others?

14—Note Acts 21:23 the word “We”. “We” have four men which have a vow on them.” James is included in the “We”. If in the year 60 A.D. James compelled Paul to take a vow, shave his head, and become a Jew to please the Jews, was it not consistent of James, in his epistle which was addressed to the Twelve Tribes, to instruct the elders to anoint with oil? Is it not a fact that vows, shaving of heads, circumcisions and anointing with oil belong to the religion of Jews and not to justified Gentiles?

15—According to Ephesians 2:12 the past record of the Gentiles is set forth in this language: “Remember that ye in times past Gentiles . . . that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world.” Did the “Jews which believed” remain in the commonwealth of Israel after they were saved? Did the justified Gentiles enter the commonwealth of Israel at the time they were saved? Read Romans 11:11 to 20.

16—Read carefully in Ephesians 2:13 to 22 the unity of the Jew and Gentile in the body of Christ and state why this truth was withheld until the year 64 A.D. after Paul declared in Rome, “the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and they will hear it.” Would it have been consistent on the part of Paul to have become a Jew to the Jews after he declared the Ephesian truth?

17—During the years covered by the Book of Acts Paul wrote the following epistles: First and Second Thessalonians, First and Second Corinthians, Galatians and, last of all, Romans. If, during this period, we find that God’s order was “to the Jew first”, and also, that there was during those years one order to the “Jews that believe”, and another order to the “Gentiles that believe”—which orders did Paul ceased to recognize after he reached Rome—should we not expect to find—and do we not really find—marked difference in this respect between the epistles mentioned above and the following epistles which he wrote after he reached Rome, namely: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, First and Second Timothy, Titus and Philemon?

18—In Acts 23:5 we find recorded these words: “Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, “Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.” If you consider that Paul erred 27 years after the veil in the temple was rent from top to bottom, by reviling the high priest—in Acts 23:4 called “God’s High Priest”—on what grounds do you base your decision?

19—Is it not clear to you that during the Book of Acts, Peter and the eleven were ministers to Israel, under the Commission of the resurrected Christ in the Land of the Jews and the Apostle Paul a minister to the heathen or Gentiles with a commission and ministry from the risen Christ which superseded the commission of Christ to the twelve?

20—If God’s order, “To the Jew first”, ceased when Paul reached Rome, and the Jews require a sign, are we surprised to find no signs recorded in Paul’s last seven epistles? If signs, circumcisions, anointings, etc. ceased at that time, what do you believe to be the one baptism mentioned in Ephesians 4:4?

391. In which verse of the sixth Chapter of Joshua is the curse pronounced upon the man that, riseth up to built the city of Jericho?

392. Who went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, according to the tenth Chapter of Luke?.

393. Read the seventh Chapter of Joshua; how Joshua plead with God after the men of Ai had humiliated and defeated his soldiers. What did the Lord tell Joshua that Israel had done to bring this disgrace, according to Joshua 7:11? And who had committed the sin? Joshua 7:20 What did Israel do to him?

394. In the eighth Chapter of Joshua, we read of the conquest and destruction of Ai and its inhabitants by the Israelites, the hanging of the king of that city, after which Joshua built an altar unto the Lord. Then what did he read before all Israel?

395. In Chapters nine and ten, we read of Israel’s capture of the great city Gibeon, their victory over the Amorites and several other heathen nations. What was the secret of their victory, according to Joshua 10:42.

396. In what verse in the tenth Chapter do we find this statement; “And the sun stood still and the moon stayed until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies?”

397. Notice the list of Israel’s enemies in the 11th Chapter the Canaanite, the Amorite, the Hittete, the Perizzite the Jebusite and the Hivite; and Israel’s complete victory that God might fulfill His promise to give there this land as an inheritance. What are the closing words of Joshua 11:11?

398. According to Zechariah 14:3, the Lord is to go forth and fight again for Israel against the Gentiles. When shall the feet of the Lord stand in those days, according to the next verse? 399. The unpossessed land is described in the 12th Chapter of Joshua. Among how many tribes of Israel was Joshua told to divide the land, according to Joshua 12:7? Note Joshua 14:3 for the inheritance of how many tribes? Ephraim and Manasseh each received a portion, but none was given to the tribe of Levi.

400. In what verse do we find recorded the words of Caleb; “I wholly followed the Lord my God? What City, meaning “Fellowship” became Caleb’s inheritance?

401. How was Othniel related to Caleb, according to Joshua 15:17? How was Othniel related to Achsah, his wife, before they were married?

402. In this 15th Chapter is recorded the land given to Judah. Whose portion is mentioned in Joshua 16? Note their extra portion in Joshua 16:18.

403. According to Joshua 18:1, where did Israel set up the tabernacle?

404. In Joshua 18 and 19 we have the remaining seven tribes of Israel casting lots for their portion. Read Acts 13:19. Read also Acts 1:26 and state if the disciples were in the will of the Lord casting lots for an apostle.

405. In Joshua 20:7 and 8, we find recorded the six cities of refuge; Kelish, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth and Golan. If refuge in these cities meant deliverance from death, whom do they typify for the sinner today?

406. In Joshua 21, after the priestly tribe received their portion from the other tribes, note Joshua 21:44 and 50. What do these two verses prove concerning the promises of God?

407. In Joshua 22, we read that Reuben, Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh, who remained beyond Jordan, built an altar unto the Lord. Because they did not unite with the other tribes at Shiloh, they were accused of sinning against God. They were cleared of the charge. Note their confession in Joshua 22:29. What was the altar called according to Joshua 22:23?

408. In the 23rd and 24th Chapter of Joshua, this great man gave his last charge to Israel. You should read carefully these 16 verses. Learn the 11th verse. In Joshua 23:14 Joshua said “I am going the way of all the earth.” In I Kings 2:2, what great King spoke these same words right before his death?

409. In which verse of Joshua 24 are found the words, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve” and the people’s answer, “God forbid that we should forsake the Lord; to serve other gods? Read also Joshua 24:21.

410. What three burials are recorded in the last 5 verses of Joshua? What tribute would you pay to Joshua?

411. According to Acts 13:20, how long was Israel governed by judges? During this time the unseen Jehovah was their King. By what name do we sometimes call this commonwealth of Israel?

412. In what verse of Judges 2 do we read “The Lord raised up judges?” In what verse in Judges 3 do we read, “The Lord raised up Othniel” and how long did he judge Israel?

413. In Judges 3:11, we read that the land had rest during Othniel’s judgeship. According to this same Chapter, who were the second and third judges and what weapon did each use?

414. After Deborah, the prophetess, judged, she was succeeded by a valiant soldier who destroyed Sisera and his army. He judged with Deborah. What was his name? In what verse of the 11th Chapter of Hebrews is he mentioned?

415. To whom did Deborah and Barak sing praises after their victory? Notwithstanding this great song of thanksgiving, recorded in Judges 5, what did Israel do according to Judges 6:1?

416. According to, Judges 6:12 the angel of the Lord saluted the man who became Israel’s 6th Judge in these words” “The Lord is with thee, thou mighty man of valour.” Give his name.

417. Read Judges 6:36 to 40. After God had told this man of valor that he should smite the Midianites, and state whether this act was because of unbelief? Are Christians today to put out the fleece?

418. In what verse of Judges 7 do we read these words, “And they stood every man in his place?” Has every Christian a God appointed place for service?

419. In Judges 7 we read that God reduced Gideon’s army from 32,000 to 10,000, then to 300 and that these 300 were equipped with lights in an earthen vessel in their left hands and trumpets in their right hands and shouted “The sword of the Lord and Gideon.” In what verses II Corinthians 4 do we read of a light in the Christian’s vessel to give the world a much-needed message?

420. About what year B.C. did Gideon die? And in what verses of Judges 8 are recorded these words, “Gideon had 70 sons and he died in a good old age”?

421. After Gideon’s death Israel again worshipped Baalim. Gideon’s son, Abimelech, killed all his brethren, except Jothan, Abimelech and the people of Shechem, who conspired with Abimelech in his great crime. A certain woman cast a millstone upon Abimelech’s head to slay him. Before he died he asked his armour-bearer to slay him with his sword, lest it be said “A woman slew me.” Did the young man do it, according to Judges 9:54 What other Hebrew, when dying, made the same request and his armour-bearer refused? I Samuel 31:4.

422. In Judges 10 and 11, we have one who hid, Jotham, who pronounced a curse upon the records of Tola, Israel’s 7th judge, Jair, Israel’s 8th judge and of Jephthah, Israel’s ninth judge. In Judges 10:7 the anger of the Lord is manifested toward Israel in delivering them into the hands of the Philistines and Ammon for 18 years. What mighty man of valor delivered Israel from Ammon and made a vow, according to Judges 11 and why did this man lament his vow?

423. According to Judges 12:6, who could not pronounce Shibboleth?

424. In this Judges 12 we learn the names of Israel’s 10th and 11th and 12th Judges; Ibzan, Eton and Abdon and following their reign Israel continued in sin and in the hands of the Philistines 40 years. So when we read that God gave Israel judges by the space of 450 years, we must understand that there were uncounted years during this space when they were without judges. The 13th judge was a Nazarite to God. What was his name? This man had great strength. He slew a lion as he would have rent a kid. In what verse do we read that he slew 1000 Philistines with the jawbone of an ass? In what verse did he accuse the Philistines of ploughing with his heifer?

425. What woman told the Philistines the secret of Samson’s strength? In which verse is it recorded “the Philistines took him and put out his eyes” and “he did grind in the prison house”?

426. In which verse is it recorded concerning Samson “So the dead which he slew at his death were more than they which he slew in his life?”

427. In what verse of Judges 17 do we find the words “Every man did that which was right in his own eyes” ?

428. Give the name of the man who was foolish enough to believe that the blessing of God would come into his home because a Levite blessed his molten image?

429. What tribe of Israel worshipped this man’s image?

430. The last 3 Chapters of Judges contain the record of the confusion, the civil and religious wars. How many of the children of Israel were gathered together according to the Judges 20?

431. In what verse of the Judges 20 do we read that Israel smote 25100 Benjamites? And in what verse, after that they turned again and smote more of them with the edge of the sword?

432. In what verse in Judges 21 do we read “And the people repented them for Benjamin, because that the Lord had made a breach in the tribes of Israel’ Quote the last verse of Judges. About what year B.C. did this state prevail with Israel?

433. In the Book of Ruth we have the story of Elimelech (the King’s God) and his wife, Naomi (Pleasant) going out of their own land, because of a famine, into the land of Moab, the enemy’s territory. The husband died and left Naomi with two sons, Mahlon and Chilion. These two sons married Orpah and Ruth, women of Moab, and then the two sons died. When Naomi started back to her own country, she instructed her two daughters in law to return to their mothers. What did they do when she kissed them good-bye (Ruth 1:9)

434. Orpah kissed Naomi and went back to her people and her idols; but Ruth said “Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee; thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.” To what city did Naomi and Ruth go? (Ruth 1:19)

435. Naomi called herself Mara (Bitter) and blamed God for her afflictions, whereas it was her unbelief and backslidden state that brought her sorrows. She and Ruth reached the land in the time of barley harvest. In the field of what rich man did Ruth reap?

436. Boaz was Elimelech’s rich kinsman. In what verse is recorded Ruth’s question asked of Boaz. “Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” Also the question of Naomi of Ruth; “Where hast thou gleaned today?”

437. In what verse of Ruth 3 is recorded the pledge of Boaz to be Ruth’s kinsman in case her nearest kinsman refused? In what verse of Ruth 4 is recorded the inability and the unwillingness of this nearest kinsman to redeem Ruth?

438. In what verse is recorded the marriage of Ruth, the Moabitess, to her Redeemer-Kinsman, Boaz? In what connection is Ruth mentioned in Matthew: 1:5? Who is our Redeemer- Kinsman?

439. According to I Samuel 1, what woman met Eli, the Lord’s priest at Shiloh, when she went there to offer her sacrifice unto the Lord? Why did this woman name her son Samuel?

440. This mother’s great prayer and song is recorded in I Samuel 2:1 to 10. In what verse in this Chapter do we find the words, “And the child did minister unto the Lord before Eli, the priest?” And in what verse these words “And the child Samuel grew on and was in favor both with the Lord, and also with men?” Compare with Luke 2:52.

441. In I Samuel 3 we have the record of God’s revelation to Samuel. After Samuel had heard the voice of the Lord the third time he ran to Eli. Eli told Samuel if the Lord called him again to say “Speak, for thy servant heareth”. Did Samuel obey? What verse?

442. We have in I Samuel 4 the account of the battle between Israel and the Philistines. Israel brought the ark of the covenant from Shiloh and the Philistines cried. “God is come, into the camp.” What verse gives this information? Who gained possession of the ark that day?

443. That day Eli’s two sons died. Eli, at the age of 98, fell and brake his neck. A grandson was born and the name given him means, “the glory is departed from Israel.” What was his name?

444. In I Samuel 5, we have the record of the ark in possession of the Philistines, with God’s judgment upon their different cities into which the ark was carried, Ashdod, Gath, Ekron. In which verse is recorded their cry, “Send away the ark of the God of Israel and let it go again to his own place”?

445. How long was the ark in the possession of the Philistines according to I Samuel 6:1? How did they convey it to Joshua? Who conveyed the ark in the same manner, according to II Samuel 6:1 and got into serious trouble?

446. What tribe of Israel was to handle the ark and how was it to be carried? Who took down the ark from the Philistines’ cart? When the ark was brought into the house of Abimadab, in Kirzath-jearim, who was sanctified to keep it?

447. In what verse is recorded the petition of Israel to Samuel, “Cease not to cry unto the Lord our God for us, that He will save us out of the hand of the Philistines?” If Israel represents the people of God, the ark is the type of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Philistines the type of the Christian’s worldly enemies today, how are we to be delivered?

448. After Samuel had confessed for Israel and prayed for their deliverance, God sent a thunder storm and discomforted the Philistines. What was restored unto Israel, according to I Samuel 7:14?

449. Samuel took a stone and set it between Mizpah an Shen and named it the “Stone of help” because they said “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.” What was the name of that stone.?

450. In judging Israel, what three places were visited Samuel in his annual circuit, according to I Samuel 7:16.

451. In the opening verses I Samuel 8 we learn that the elders of Israel were displeased with the conduct of Samuel’s sons and they made a request of Samuel with which he was displeased. What was is it?

452. According to I Samuel 8:7, whom did Israel reject in answering for an earthly King? 453. In I Samuel 8:8 to 18 we read how Israel was warned of the results of their folly in choosing a King. What was their decision after this warning, according to the 19th verse?

454. In I Samuel 9:16, the Lord promised to send to Samuel a man of the land and tribe of Benjamin to be anointed as Israel’s King. What was his name?

455. In I Samuel 10:23 and 24, we read that Saul was a splendid man physically, that there was none like him among all the people. What did all the people shout when they saw him? (I Samuel 10:24).

456. In I Samuel 11:6 and 7, we read that the Spirit of God came upon Saul to deliver Israel; that the fear of the Lord fell upon the people so that 330,000 men responded to the call. According to verse 11, what people did they slay? What was the result of this victory? Verse 15.

457. What kind of a record did Samuel have as Israel’s prophet, priest and judge, according to I Samuel 12:3 to 5?

458. After Samuel preached his great sermon to Israel in I Samuel 12, what did God send to make the people greatly fear and confess their sin in asking for a King?

459. In I Samuel 13, we read that Saul intruded into the priestly duties; and in the 14th verse Samuel announced Jehovah’s rejection of Saul. What kind of man was God seeking?

460. According to I Samuel 14, upon whom did Jonathan, the son of King Saul depend for his great victory over the Philistines? (I Samuel 6:12 and 23).

461. In I Samuel 14:47 to 48, we learn that Saul fought against Moab, Ammon, Edom, Zobah, the Philistines and the Amalekites and delivered Israel. According to verse 52, how long did the war against the Philistines last?

462. In I Samuel 15:1 to 24, we read the account of Saul’s disobedience in not completely destroying the Amalekites and their property; his excuse and those words of Samuel in the 22d verse, “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice and to hearken than the fat of rams”. What reason did Saul give for his disobedience in verse 24?

463. Read I Samuel 15:35 and state who repented that he had made Saul king.

464. In I Samuel 16:1 to 13, we have Samuel’s visit to the house of Jesse in Bethlehem, with the horn of oil to anoint David to be Saul’s successor as King of Israel. How many sons of Jesse passed Samuel before David was chosen? In what verse is found the statement, “Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart”?

465. In I Samuel 16:14, we note that the Spirit of God departed from Saul and that his servants suggested that a musician be brought to him to calm him when possessed by an evil spirit. What musician came to Saul, according to the 21st verse? And what other position was given to David?

466. In I Samuel 17, we have the description of the Philistine giant, Goliath. What was the challenge of this heathen warrior to Israel?

467. According to I Samuel 17:10,11,24, how did Goliath’s “defy” affect King Saul and his people?

468. According to I Samuel 17:25 to 32, what reward was offered to the one who would accept Goliath’s challenge? Who accepted the challenge?

469. In I Samuel 17:40 to 51, we have the record of this Israelite’s victory over Goliath, first with his sling-stone and then with Goliath’s sword. To whom did he ascribe the victory and what was the effect upon the Philistines?

470. As a result of this victory and David’s report to King Saul, who entered into a love covenant with King David?

471. In I Samuel 18, we find that David was promoted to be the General of King Saul’s army, and as a result of his mighty victories, the women sang, “Saul has slain his thousands and David his ten thousands.” How did this react upon King Saul?

472. In this same Chapter we find that Saul’s first attempt to kill David was futile. Why was Saul afraid of David? What people loved David?

473. What motive prompted Saul to give his daughter Michal to be David’s wife? What did Saul first see in I Samuel 18:28, as a result of this union? Read I Samuel 18:9, I Samuel 18:29, I Samuel 19:10 and 11 and I Samuel 20:33, and state the feeling that continued in Saul’s heart against David.

474. In I Samuel 19, we find that Michal protected David’s life by deception and fled from Saul’s presence to dwell with one of God’s servants. Give the name of that servant.

475. In I Samuel 20, what friend of David’s protected his life and according to the I Samuel 20:20 to 36, what means did he employ to notify David of Saul’s relentless determination to smite him? Read I Samuel 20:17 to 42 and note the declaration by Jonathan and David of their mutual love. In whose name did they swear concerning a covenant of peace in their seed?

476. In I Samuel 21, we find David doing something that Christ mentioned eleven hundred years later in Mark 2:26. What was he doing?

477. When David fled from the house of Ahimelech, the priest, he went into the home of the King of Gath and because David was afraid of this King what did David feign?

478. In what verse in Hebrews 11: are Samuel and David mentioned among the heroes of faith?

479. In I Samuel 22:1 and 2, we read that the distressed, the discontented, and those in debt fled to hide in the cave of Adullam with David. How many men were with him?

480. According to II Samuel 2:3, how were these men afterward rewarded by David?

481. Who dwelt with the King of Moab while David was in hold, according to I Samuel 22:3 and 4?

482. How many priests were slain by the command of Saul when he learned that Ahimelech and his son Abiathar had given bread to David? I Samuel 22:11 to 23. Who escaped death?

483. In I Samuel 22 and 23, we note David’s wanderings to Mizpah, to Hereth, to Keilah, to Zeph. Whom did God tell him to smite at Keilah? Who fled with David?

484. Who warned David to escape from Saul to the woods of Zeph? And what true friend met him there to strengthen his hand in the Lord?

485. In I Samuel 23, who conspired with Saul to reveal David’s lurking place and what happened according to I Samuel 23:26? What caused King Saul to suddenly change his mind?

486. David had now fled to the wilderness of Engedi and upon the rocks of the wild goats. Saul, with 3000 men, sought David, and there in a cave had his opportunity to privily destroy King Saul. What did David do to Saul? Did David repent of this act?

487. When David explained to Saul why he did not kill him, what proverb did he quote in I Samuel 24:13, and in what verse is recorded Saul’s answer to David, “Thou art more righteous than I; for thou hast rewarded me good, whereas I have rewarded thee evil.” Note Saul’s assurance that David was God’s King for Israel in I Samuel 24:20 and Saul’s request and David’s promise in the next two verses.

488. According to I Samuel 25:1 all Israel lamented when Samuel died. Where was Samuel buried and where did David go at that time?

489. In I Samuel 25, we have the story of wicked Nabal and his good wife Abigail, who brought the peace offering to David and, persuaded him not to shed blood. In what verse did she say, “The soul of my Lord shall be bound in the bundle of life with the Lord thy God? After God smote Nabal, who became David’s wife?

490. When David and his friend found Saul and Abner asleep in their camp, in the wilderness of Zeph, and David’s friend wanted to smite Saul, why did David forbid, according to I Samuel 26: 11? What was the name of David’s friend?

491. When David went to the opposite hill and held up Saul’s spear, which he had taken, whom did he chide for not protecting the Lord’s anointed?

492. In what verse of this Chapter do we find Saul’s confession of sin, his promise to no more pursue David and his statement “I have played the fool and have erred exceedingly” ?

493. In II Samuel 1, we read that David ordered the death of the Amalekite messenger for reporting that he had responded to King Saul’s request to put him to death upon Mt. Gilboa. What did David call Saul in II Samuel 1:16?

494. In what verses in II Samuel 1 do we read, “Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon,” and David’s lamentation for his friend Jonathan in these words: “I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful: passing the love of women”?

495. In II Samuel 2 we read that Abner, the captain of Saul’s host made Saul’s son, Ishbosheth, King over Israel, and that he reigned two years, but David was anointed as King over the house of Judah and reigned seven and a half years at Hebron. Then Abner’s servants and David’s servants went to battle. Who was victorious according to II Samuel 2:17?

496. Whom did Abner slay with the hinder end of his spear?

497. According II Samuel 3, how many sons were born to David in Hebron and what son was Absalom?

498. In II Samuel 3 we have the record of Abner’s revolt to King David. Before he was able to fulfill his pledge to turn Saul’s friends to support King David, the brother of Asahel smote him under the fifth rib, unto death. What was the smiter’s name?499. David lamented and wept over the death of Abner. State the verse where these words of David’s are recorded: “There is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel.”

500. According II Samuel 4, how old was Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, when the fleeing nurse dropped him and he became lame on both his feet?

501. In this same Chapter we read that Rechab and Baanah beheaded Ishbosheth and thought they would gain the favor of King David by killing his enemy, and so they brought proof of their deed to him. What happened to these brothers by David’s command?

502. In II Samuel 5 we learn that the elders of Israel came to Hebron to make David King over all Israel. How old was he when he began to reign? How long did he reign over all Israel in Jerusalem?

503. Jerusalem, the stronghold of Zion, was taken from the Jebusites, and was called the city of David. David went on and grew great. For whose sake did the Lord exalt David’s kingdom? (II Samuel 5:12). What nation was overwhelmingly defeated by David according to the closing verses of this 5th Chapter?

504. In II Samuel 6 and also I Chronicles 13, we have the record of the transfer of the ark of the covenant from the house of Aminadab on an ox-cart. Uzzah was smiten to death by God for touching the ark with his hand and Obededom’s home was greatly blessed because of the presence of the ark. The Philistines method was the ox-cart. God’s command was that the ark should be borne with staves inserted in the rings at the corners and by Levites. David was displeased and afraid until after he heard of the blessing in Obededom’s home. Then what did he do according to II Samuel 6:12 to 16?

505. In the closing verses II Samuel 6, we find that David built a Tabernacle for the ark and Israel’s worship. But in II Samuel he 7 David thinks of his own elegant home, and the desire comes into his heart to build a fine house for God to dwell in. Through what prophet did God reveal his plan to David?

506. In II Samuel 7, we find recorded the Davidic covenant, the guaranty of God to establish the throne of David forever. In praising God for this promise, how many times did David use the expression “O Lord God” in this Chapter? Now compare this with I Chronicles 17.

507. According to Romans 1:3, Christ was the seed of David. According to Luke 1:32 and Acts 2:30, what was God’s purpose in the birth, as well as the resurrection of Christ?

508. In Isaiah 9:6 and 7, we have the titles of Christ in connection with his right to David’s throne. Which title suggests an earthly ruler?

509. What is the present condition of David’s tabernacle according to Acts 15:14 to 16. What is the future guaranty concerning the tabernacle? Read also Amos 9:11 to 15.

510. In II Samuel 8, we learn that David subdued the Kings and nations that were Israel’s enemies. In what verse do we read these words, “And David executed judgment and justice unto all his people?”

511. We have in II Samuel 9 the marvelous story of Grace. Mephibosheth, lame on both feet, of the house of David’s great enemy, Saul, in Lodebar (no pasture) brought by David (love) into his kingdom and house for the sake of Jonathan (Jehovah’s gift) to eat continually at the King’s table. In what verse are found Mephibosheth’s words: “What is thy servant that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I”? Note what is said about Mephibosheth during David’s absence from his throne in II Samuel 19:24 to 30.

512. In II Samuel 10, we find David’s offer of kindness to the children of Ammon spurned and their conspiracy and battle with the Syrians against David’s army. Who was David’s general, and how many Syrians were slain before they surrendered and agreed to serve Israel?

513. In II Samuel 11 is recorded the saddest story in David’s life, his double sin. In Psalm 51 we can read the anguish of David’s soul because of his great sin. In that Psalm he cried to God “against thee only have I sinned.” But against what man and wife did he commit this great sin?

514. In II Samuel 12 we have the story of the poor man’s one little ewe lamb, the parable of Nathan to bring condemnation to David and confession of his great sin. David truly repented but God caused David’s little baby, born to Bathsheba, to die. What verse contains these statements: Nathan to David: “Thou art the man”; “Thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of God to blaspheme” and David’s concerning the dead baby; “I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me”?

515. God, greatly loved the second son born to David, therefore Nathan called him Jedidiah (beloved of the Lord). What was the name given this child by his parents?

516. In II Samuel 13, we find the record of Ammon’s sin against Absalom’s sister, Tamar; and Ammon’s assassination by order of Absalom. What did King David and his sons do because of this tragedy Absalom fled to Geshur where he remained three years Did David want to go to him?

517. In II Samuel 14, we have the record of Joab’s scheme—through the feigning of a woman— to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem; the burning of Joab’s field by Absalom to force Joab to get him in the presence of King David. How long was Absalon denied the privilege of seeing his father, while he was in the same city?

518. Read II Samuel 15 and note how cleverly Absalom dealt with the people to win them favor, thereby causing David to flee with his household taking the ark of the covenant with him. In what verses do we find these statements: “So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel”; “Carry back the ark of God into the City”; and “Absalom came into Jerusalem?” According to II Samuel 16 who took a large supply of food to David? Who said to David, “Thou art taken in thy mischief because thou art a bloody man”?

519. In II Samuel 16 and 17 we read of the treachery and deception of Ahithophel, his foolish counsel to Absalom, and his suicide because it was not accepted. Over what river did David and his friends pass? What man of Lodebar helped to feed them?520. David organized his men for war with Absalom’s troops. In what verses II Samuel 18 do we read David’s command to Joab, “Deal gently for my sake with the young man, with Absalom” ? In what verse do we read that Absalom’s mule went under the oak and Absalom’s head was caught in the branches?

521. When the tidings of the slaying and burial of Absalom and the fleeing of his followers were brought to David, he asked this question, “Is the young man Absalom safe?” When he learned the sad news, in what verse is recorded his lamentation, “O my son Absalom, would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son?”

522. In II Samuel 19 is recorded Joab’s counsel to David, to do less weeping for Absalom, who rebelled against his father, and give his attention! to his loyal followers. In what verse is the question, “Why speak ye not a word of bringing the King back?” They sent word to David: “Return thou, and all thy servants; “and then we read the account of the King’s return from beyond Jordan; his farewell to those of Gilead, who had protected him and provided for him; of the joy of Mephibosheth; of King David’s refusal to kill his enemy; and the strife between Judah and Israel. Whom did Israel follow according to II Samuel 20:2?

523. In II Samuel 20, we have the record of Amasa’s death at the hands of Joab, and Joab’s victory over the leader of Israel’s rebellious forces. In what verse do we read that Joab was over all the host of Israel?

524. In II Samuel 21, we have a record of a three years famine in David’s land because of Saul’s sin against the Gibeonites; their demand for the death of seven descendants of Saul as the price of atonement. Then David gathered the bones of Saul and Jonathan and had them buried in the sepulchre of Saul’s father in Zelah, the country of Benjamin. Then God was entreated for the land. In the closing verses II Samuel 21 we have the record of several battles with the Philistines, in which the mighty men of this heathen nation were slain. In what verse are recorded these words, spoken to David, “Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle that thou quench not the light of Israel” ?

525. Read David’s wonderful song of praise in the II Samuel 22 and read with it the following: Psalms 7 – Psalms 29 – Psalms 34 – Psalms 64 – Psalms 74 – Psalms 97 and Psalms 116. In what verse II Samuel 22 are these words of David, “He teacheth my hand to war”? and “Thou hast also given me the neck of mine enemies”? How many mighty men are mentioned in II Samuel 24?

526. How many men of Israel were numbered by Joab at the command of David? In what verse of II Samuel 24 is recorded the confession of David’s sin for numbering Israel; and his second confession and pleading for the innocent sheep? In what verse are the words of David. “Let us fall now into the hand of the Lord; for his mercies are great: and let me not fall into the hand of man”?

527. In I Kings 1 we read how Adonijah, the son of Haggith and David plotted with the aid of Joab and Abiathar to seize David’s throne and how Nathan and Zadok aided Bathsheba, another wife of David, to secure the throne for their son Solomon. In which verses do we find these words: “Cause Solomon my son to ride upon mine own mule”; and “Behold, Adonijah feareth King Solomon”?

528. In I Kings 2, we have the record of David’s death and burial in the city of David. Before his death, he warned Solomon against Joab and Shimei and demanded their death. In this Chapter we find Abiathar, the priest, removed from office and the execution of Adonijah and Shimei by Benaiah. He also executed another man and then succeeded him as captain of the host. What was this third victim’s name?

529. In I Kings 3, we have the statement that Solomon loved the Lord; the record of God’s gracious answer to Solomon’s prayer for understanding, to judge Israel right; “I will give thee a wise and understanding heart.” According to the next verse, what did God also bestow upon Solomon? What was Solomon’s first act to display his wise judgment; in which two mothers were involved?

530. In I Kings 4 Solomon is organizing his government. According to verse 21, he reigned over all kingdoms from the river to the land of the Philistines and into the border of Egypt. God gave Solomon great wisdom, exceeding the wisdom of all the wisdom of other rulers, so that he spake 3000 proverbs (I Kings 4:32). Did Solomon collect these proverbs before or after he became king?

531. In what verses of I Kings 4 do we find recorded: “And Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man under his vine and fig tree,” and, “There came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth?”532. In I Kings 5 a league is made between Solomon and the King of Tyre, Hiram, who was ever a lover of David. As Solomon said, because wars were about David on every side, he could not build God’s temple and now that God had given Solomon rest on every side, he would begin the building. Hiram was to furnish the timbers. How many labourers did Solomon put to work, according to the I Kings 5:15?

533. In I Kings 6:7, we are told that the stones for the temple was made ready before they were brought to the building. Compare this with Ephesians 2:19 to 22 and I Peter 2:5 to 8. In I Kings 6:21 we read that the whole house was overlaid with gold, also the floor, (I Kings 6:30). According to this Chapter, how long was Solomon in building this house for God to dwell in?

534. Solomon; spent thirteen years building his own house as described in I Kings 7 and then in I Kings 8 we read that the ark of the covenant, with the mercy seat, was placed by the priests in the most holy place in the temple, at which time the shekinah-glory of the Lord filled the house. From verses I Kings 8:12 to 21, Solomon’s sermon is recorded; from I Kings 8:22 to 53, his prayer; from I Kings 8:54 to 61, his blessing; from I Kings 8:62 to 66, his sacrifice and rejoicing. In what verse do we read, “But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee?” and these words, “So the king and all the children of Israel dedicated the house of the Lord.”

535. In I Kings 9 we read that Solomon built a navy of ships on the shore of the Red Sea and brought gold from Ophir. In what verse are we told that he offered sacrifices on the temple altar three times each year? What queen, according to I Kings 10, after be holding the glory of Solomon, said: “the half was not told me”? We also read in this verse that Solomon’s gold income was 666 talents; that he possessed 1400 chariots and 12000 horsemen. In what verse do we read, “King Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth for riches and for wisdom?” In what Chapters of Ecclesiastes does Solomon sum up his works and riches?

536. Solomon’s decline begins in I Kings 11, about 990 B.C. He had seven hundred wives, according to I Kings 11:3, and they caused him to worship their gods. “The Lord was angry with Solomon” (I Kings 11:9). For his sin God declared the kingdom would be divided, but that one tribe, (Judah) would be put under Solomon’s son, for David’s sake, for Jerusalem’s sake (I Kings 11:13). The prophet tore a garment into twelve pieces. To whom did he hand ten pieces to indicate that he would rule over ten tribes of Israel? How long did Solomon reign and where was he buried?

537. If Solomon collected the Proverbs before his great mistakes, it seems that he did not practice what he preached. For instance, Proverbs 1:10: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not,” or Proverbs 9:13: “A foolish woman is clamourous: is simple and knoweth nothing.” Did King Solomon do what the king of Proverbs 20:8 was supposed to do?

538. Now compare I Kings 2:12 to I Kings 11:43 with II Chronicles 1:1 to I Kings 9:31 and you will read virtually the same history of Solomon. With what does the Lord Jesus compare Solomon’s glory in Matthew 6:29 and Luke 12:27?

539. What was the first great sin of Jeroboam, after he built Shechem in Mount Ephraim; according to I Kings 13:28? Note this announcement: “Behold thy goods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.” What happened to Jeroboam’s altar as Jehovah’s sign that Josiah would arise to offer the heathen priests? (I Kings 12:5).

540. Jeroboam persisted in evil doing and he sent his wife, disguised, to Shiloh, to ask Ahijah, the prophet, concerning their sick child. The child died, as the prophet foretold. Then Jeroboam died. In what verse of the 14th Chapter do we read: “And he shall give Israel up because of the sins of Jeroboam, who did sin and who made Israel to sin”?

541. Read I Kings 15:30 – I Kings 15:34 – I Kings 16:26 and II Kings 10:29 and 31 – II Kings 13:2 – II Kings 13:6 – II Kings 13:11 – II Kings 14:24 – II Kings 15:9 – II Kings 15:18 – II Kings 15:24 – II Kings 15:28. In these verses, how was Jeroboam known?

542. Jeroboam reigned over the ten tribes twenty two years (I Kings 14:20). Nahab reigned two years (I Kings 15:25). Baasha slew Nahab and reigned over Israel twenty four years (I Kings 15:33). Elah reigned over Israel two years (I Kings 16:8) Zimri killed Elah and reigned seven days (I Kings 16:15). Omri reigned seven years (I Kings 16:23 and I Kings 16:29). Omri removed Israel’s capital to Samaria, named for Shemer (I Kings 16:24). Omri did worse than all that were before him. Now what wicked man succeeded Omri as Israel’s king? How long did he reign? Who was his wicked wife?

543. What city was rebuilt in the days of this wicked king in fulfillment of Joshua 6:26? (I Kings 16:34). Who was God’s great prophet to this wicked king, his wife and their people?

544. In Zarephath, (or Sarepta), this prophet entered the widow’s house where she and her son were ready to die of starvation. What miracle did the prophet of God perform, according to I Kings 17:12 to 16? When was Christ when he referred to this miracle in Luke 4:26?

545. When Elijah raised this widow’s son from the dead note his prayer: “O Lord, my God, I pray thee, let this child’s soul come into him again”? (I Kings 17:21). Does this not prove that soul and body do not remain together after death? Read I Kings 17:22.

546. In I Kings 18, Elijah meets Obadiah, the man of God who was hiding from wicked queen Jezebel In which verse is recorded Ahab’s question of Elijah, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” Elijah persuade: Ahab to hear Elijah’s challenge. “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” Elijah was against 450 prophets of Baal. In which verse do we read that the people fell on their faces and said: “The Lord He is God” when Elijah triumphed in the name of Israel’s Jehovah?

547. What encouragement should the Christian today receive, according to James 5:17 and 18, because God withheld rain for three and a half years and then sent rain? Read I Kings 18:4 to 46. When Jezebel swore to kill Elijah at Jezreel, to what place did Elijah flee?

548. In I Kings 19 is recorded Elijah’s prayer, that he might die; his forty days journey to Horeb, the still small voice of God, telling him to anoint Hazael to be King over Syria, Jehu King of Israel, and Elisha to succeed Elijah as prophet. In which verse do we read “I have left me 7000 in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal?”

549. Elijah found Elisha plowing with twelve yoke of oxen. Elijah cast his mantle upon Elisha, who left all and followed Elijah. In I Kings 20 we have God’s favor shown toward Ahab in his two great victories over the Syrians and then the pronouncement of Ahab’s doom for not utterly destroying the Syrian King, Benhadad. In what verse do we read: “And the children of Israel slew of the Syrians 100,000 footmen in one day”?

550. In I Kings 21, we have the record of the wickedness of Jezebel in having Naboth stoned to death under a false charge, the theft of his vineyard. God sent Elijah to confirm the sentence of death for his outrage against Naboth. Then God’s grace was extended toward Ahab because of his repentance. In what verse are found Ahab’s words: “Hast thou found me, O mine enemy?”

551. In I Kings 22 is recorded Jehoshaphat’s alliance with Ahab in his final battle against the Syrians; Micaiah’s prophecy, and the slaying of Ahab. Jehoshaphat began his righteous reign over Judah in the fourth year of Ahab’s reign over Israel. Ahaziah, Ahab’s son, reigned two years over Israel. In what verse do we read God’s statement through his prophet: “I saw all Israel scattered as sheep, that have not a shepherd”? What similar statement is found in Matthew 9:36 and Mark 6:34?

552. Israel’s Kings: Jereboam, Nahab, Baasha, Elah, Zimri, Omri, Ahab and Ahaziah reigned over a period of 81 years. During this same period Judah’s Kings were as follows: Rehoboam, 17 years, I Kings 14:21. He did evil. Abijam reigned 2 years, I Kings 15:2. Asa reigned 41 years, I Kings 15:10. In what verse of this Chapter do we read: “And Asa did that which was right in the eyes of the Lord”? Jehoshaphat, Asa’s son, died in the year 897 B.C. How old was he when Ahab died? I Kings 16:29 and I Kings 22:41 and 42.

553. In II Chronicles, Chapter 15 to 20, we have the record of the good reigns of Asa and his son, Jehoshaphat, over Judah. Jehoshaphat was succeeded by his wicked son, Jehoram, who walked as did the ungodly kings of Israel. He reigned eight years in Jerusalem. Whom did he marry, according to II Chronicles 21:6? How many of his six brothers did he slay?

554. In the 1st Chapter of II Kings is recorded Ahaziah’s sin as King of Israel, inquiring of other gods as to his recovery to health; Elijah’s announcement of his death; and the fire from heaven consuming Ahaziah’s troops because they were trying to lay hold upon Elijah. In what verse is Elijah described as “An hairy man and girt with a girdle of leather about his loins”? Compare this with the description of John the Baptist in Matthew 3:4, and read also Matthew 17:11 to 13.

555. What two apostles said to Jesus, “Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” Luke 9:54. Read about ‘fire from heaven’ in Genesis 19:24. Deuteronomy 4:11. II Chronicles 7:1. Job 1:16. Luke 17:29. II Thessalonians 1:7. Revelation 13:13 and Revelation 20:9.

556. In II Kings 2, we read of Elijah’s translation by the whirlwind into heaven, after Elijah and Elisha had been parted by the chariot and horses of fire. What waters were divided by smiting with Elijah’s mantle? In which verse is Elijah’s prayer recorded, “Let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me?”

557. Elijah means, “the God of Jehovah”; Elisha means, “the God of Supplication.” In II Kings 2 we have the record of Elisha at Jericho, at Bethel, at Mt. Carmel and back to Samaria. Fifty men sought three days for Elijah, while Elisha remained at Jericho. There Elisha put the cruse of salt into the waters which healed them. How many children were torn by the two she bears for mocking Elisha?

558. In the II Kings 4, Elisha disapproves of the alliance of Jehoshaphat with Jehoram, King of Israel, and the King of Edom. Nevertheless, for Jehoshaphat’s sake, after instructing Jehoram to appeal to the gods of his wicked parents, he assures complete victory over the Moabites. What miracle did Elisha perform according to II Kings 4:1 to 7 ?

559. Four other miracles are recorded, in II Kings 4, two for the benefit of a great woman in Shunem, who furnished room and board for Elisha. A son was born to her and that same son was raised from the dead by the man of God. Then the casting of meal into the poison pottage, and the miraculous feeding of 100 men. What faithful servant worked with Elisha and how many times is Elisha called, ‘man of God’ in this Chapter? What miracle is found in the following verses: Mark 5:41 and 42. Luke 7:11 to 15. John 11:43 to 45. Acts 9:39 to 42. Acts 20:9 to 12 and I Kings 17:21 and 22 and II Kings 4:34 to 36?

560. According to II Kings 5, Naaman was a mighty man of valor, but he was a leper. When he obeyed Elisha and dipped seven times in Jordan, he was completely healed. He was angry when first told to do this, saying that the Syrian rivers, Abna and Pharpar, were better than the waters of Israel. Who said to Naaman, “My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it?” What might the waters of Israel represent, according to John 4:22 and Romans 3:1 to 2 and Romans 9:4 and 5?

561. What other miracle of Elisha is recorded in II Kings 6:1 to 7? In Chapters 6 and 7, are recorded God’s miraculous preservation of Elisha and Israel against the invasion of the Syrians under King Benhadad; and the wisdom of the four lepers that led to the capture of the food in the Syrians’ tent, to feed the Israelites. These lepers reasoned well, that if they stayed without, they would starve, if they should enter the city and find famine, they could fare no worse. If they surrendered to the Syrians, and were put to death, it would amount to the same thing, but there was the possibility of being spared by the Syrians. How were they rewarded according to II Kings 7:8 and 9?

562. In II Kings 8, Elisha’s prediction of the seven years famine, comes true. Then he sent word to sick Benhadad that he would die, but Hazael, who took the message, lied to him. Elisha wept when he told Hazael of the great sin he would commit against Israel when he succeeded Benhadad as King of Israel (II Kings 8:11 and 12). Then notice, that for several years, Jehoram, King of Judah, and Jehoram, King of Israel, were contemporaries. Note the death of Jehoram of Judah, and the alliance of his successor, Ahaziah, with wicked Jehoram of Israel, against the Syrians, under Hazael. Whom did Elisha anoint to be King of Israel and to destroy the house of Ahab, according to II Kings 9:1 to 10?

563. In II Kings 9:11 to 37, we have the death of the King of Israel, Jehoram; the death of Ahaziah, the King of Judah, and wicked Jezebel, the wife of Ahab, by the hand of Jehu. How did Jehu drive his chariot according to II Kings 9:20? In what verse in II Kings 9 do we find these words, “In the potion of Jezreel shall dogs eat the flesh of Jezebel?” In what verse of II Kings 10 do we read “So Jehu slew all that remained of the house of Ahab in Jezreel” ?

564. Jehu reigned 28 years over Israel, according to II Kings 10:36. He departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, and because of his sins God troubled Israel with Syria. In II Kings 11 is recorded the wickedness of Athaliah, who slew all of the royal seed of Judah, except one little baby, who was hidden with his nurse in the house of the Lord for six years. What was this little boy’s name and how old was he when he began to reign over the house of Judah? What priest directed the slaying of Athaliah?

565. This priest instructed the young king and enabled him to do the work of the Lord, repairing the temple. The king was slain by the sons of his servant. He was succeeded by Amaziah. Jehu, King of Israel, was succeeded by Jehoahaz, who was delivered into the hands of the King of Syria because of his great sin. He was succeeded by his son Jehoash, who began to reign while the other Jehoash was still King of Judah. The prophet Elisha was visited by the King of Israel when the prophet was dying and by means of the arrow, Elisha foretold the defeat of Syria by Israel, which defeat is recorded in II Kings 13:25. In which verse do we read the words of the King, spoken to the sick prophet, “O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof?” Read the revival of the man that touched the bones of Elisha, in verse 21.

566. Amaziah, King of Judah, killed the sons of his father’s servant that had killed his father. He did right in the sight of God. Amaziah was defeated by Jehoash, King of Israel, who took the gold and silver and the vessels from the house of God to Samaria. Fifteen years after Jehoash died, Amaziah was slain when he fled from Jerusalem, but he was brought back to Jerusalem for burial. Before he died Jeroboam had been made King of Israel. While Jeroboam was King of Israel, Amaziah’s successor took the throne of Judah and reigned longer than any king had reigned over either Israel or Judah. What was his name and how long did he reign? II Kings 15:1 and 2. With what disease was he smitten?

567. Before this King of Judah had died several other Kings had reigned and died in Israel; namely, Zachariah for six months; (II Kings 15:8): Shallum for one month; (II Kings 15:13): Monahem for ten years; (II Kings 15:17): Pekahiah for two years; (II Kings 15:23). Then before King Azariah (or Uzziah) died, Pekah began to reign in Samaria over Israel; and while he was reigning Jotham succeeded Azariah as King of Judah. In what verse II Kings 16 do we read that after Jotham’s death his wicked son who reigned over Judah in his father’s place made his sons to pass through the fire, according to the abominations of the heathen? What was his son’s name? With what nation did this king enter into an alliance to assist Judah in defeating Syria and Israel, according to II Kings 16:7?

568. In II Kings 17 we read that Hoshea, the King of Israel, was conquered by Shalmaneser, King of Assyria, and became servant to him and then his prisoner. In the ninth year of Hoshea’s reign this King of Assyria took Samaria and took the Ten Tribes of Israel away into Assyria. In this chapter the reason for this disgrace is told in these words: “They would not hear, but hardened their necks, like to the neck of their fathers, that did not believe in the Lord their God.” In what verse are these words found? Compare with Acts 7:51 to 55.

569. Every one of Israel’s kings walked in the way of Jeroboam who caused Israel to sin. Through His holy prophets God sent His message of warning to the Ten Tribes before He finally delivered them into the hands of Assyria. Obadiah prophesied in the year 887 B.C. Hosea prophesied from 785 B.C. to 725 B.C. Amos prophesied in the year 787 B. C., about 100 years after Obadiah. Were there any major prophets among these? Joel prophesied in 800 B.C. His message was concerning Judah and Jerusalem.

570. Obadiah’s message is given in one chapter. This prophecy is God’s complaint and judgment announced against Edom or Esau. Read these 21 verses and tell in which verse are found these words: “The house of Jacob shall possess their possessions;”?

571. The Prophecy of Joel 1 shows the devastation of Israel’s land by the Gentile nations. This might be considered a type of the coming Tribulation. In which verse are found words, in the first chapter: “Alas for the day: for the day of the Lord is at hand, and as a destruction from the Almighty shall it come?” In the second chapter the Great Tribulation is predicted. Compare the expression, “There hath not been ever the like”, in Joel 2:2, with Jeremiah 30:7 and Matthew 24:21. In what verse of Joel 2 are found these words concerning Israel’s God: “He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him of the evil?”

572. In the latter part of Joel 2 is recorded the promise of Israel’s Jehovah to bring blessing after judgment. The millennium reign of Christ, with Israel in their own land, though yet future, is guaranteed in Joel’s Prophecy. In which verse of the second Chapter is the Former Rain and The Latter Rain promised for Israel’s land? Compare with Deuteronomy 11:14. Jeremiah 3:3. Hosea 6:3. Zechariah 10:1 and James 5:7. In what verses of the 2nd Chapter of Acts do we find the words of Peter and the eleven in which they quoted Joel 2:28? Joel 2:30 and 31?

573. Note the opening verse of Joel 3, “I will bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem.” In which verse does the Lord say to the Gentiles, “Prepare for war”? “Beat your plowshares into swords?” In which these words? “But Judah shall dwell for ever and Jerusalem from generation to generation?”

574. Hosea began his prophecies about the time Amos prophesied. Note Hosea 1 foretells the captivity of the Ten Tribes in the symbolic name of Hosea’s first born, a daughter, Loruhamah. His second born was “Lo-ammi”, meaning “Not my people”, Hosea 1:9. Note in the 2nd Chapter that Israel is likened unto an adulterous wife. In Hosea 2:14 to 23, Jehovah promises to restore His wife. In which verse are these words found: “I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness: and thou shalt know the Lord?”

575. In Hosea 3:4, the Lord prophesied, through Hosea, that Israel was to abide many days without a king, but afterward they would return and seek the Lord their God and David their King and would fear the Lord and His goodness in the latter days, Hosea 3:5. Compare with Ezekiel 34:23 and 24 and Ezekiel 37:25, and tell when this is to be fulfilled. Read also Isaiah 9:6 and 7 and Acts 15:16 and 17.

576. In which verse of Hosea 4 are these words: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge?” “In which verse of Hosea 6, these words: “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord?” In which verse in Hosea 8, the words: “For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind?”

577. In what verse in Hosea 9 are found these words: “I found Israel like grapes in the wilderness?” In the Hosea 10, these words, “Israel is an empty vine?” “Ye have plowed wickedness, ye have reaped iniquity?” What experience of Jacob is referred to in Hosea 12:2 to 4? In, which verse of Hosea 13 is found these words: “I gave thee a king in mine anger and took him away in my wrath?” Who was this king?

578. In what verse of Hosea 12 are found these words: “I will ransom them from the power of the grave. I will redeem them from death?” And in Hosea 14 these words of Jehovah, “I will heal their backsliding. I will love them freely?”

579. What was the occupation of Amos, the Prophet? In Amos 1 his prophecies are against the people surrounding Jerusalem. This continues in Amos 2. Beginning with Amos 2:4, judgments are pronounced upon Israel and Judah. In which verse is found this complaint of the Lord, “Ye gave the Nazarites wine to drink; and commanded the prophets, saying ‘prophesy not?’” In Amos 3 Jehovah’s complaint is against the whole family which He brought up from the land of Egypt. In which verse of Amos 3 are found these words: “Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but He revealeth His secret unto His servants the prophets.” In which verse of Amos 4, these words: “Prepare to meet thy God, O Israel?”

580. In which verse of Amos 5 are found these words: “Seek the Lord, and ye shall live,” also “Seek good and not evil, also, “Therefore will I cause you to go into captivity beyond Damascus.” In which verse of Amos 6 are found these words: “Woe to them that are at ease in Zion?”

581. According to Amos 7:8, what did the Prophet see? What did he see, according to Amos 8:2? In which verse of Amos 8 are found these words of Jehovah: “I will send a famine in the land, not a famine for bread nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord.” Read Amos 8:12. In which verse of Amos 9 do we find these words: “I will sift the house of Israel among all nations.” Read Amos 9:11 to 15 with Acts 15:14 to 18, and state whose tabernacle is yet to be rebuilt and what nation is still to occupy and possess Canaan in uninterrupted peace.

582. Now before Israel’s captivity there was a Prophet with a different ministry. His name was Jonah. Read what Christ said about Jonah in Matthew 12:39 to 41. Read II Kings 14:25 concerning the fulfillment of a prophecy by Jonah, who prophesied in 862 B.C. Who was king of Israel at that time? Where did God send Jonah to preach? Were the people of that city Jews or Gentiles?

583. Jonah disobeyed God and went by ship, headed for another city, Tarshish. Jonah, in the first Chapter, told the shipmaster that he was responsible for the storm and damage to the ship. In which verse is Jonah’s confession recorded; “I know that for my sake this great tempest is upon you.” What effect did their experience have with the other men on board the ship?

584. We read that God prepared a great fish to swallow Jonah, that in the belly of that fish Jonah spent three days and three nights, a figure of the Lord Jesus in the earth for three days and three nights after His death on the cross. In which verse of Jonah 2 are recorded the words: “Salvation is of the Lord”. What difference is there between Jonah 1:2 and Jonah 3:2? Jonah cried to Nineveh, “Yet 40 days and Nineveh shall be overthrown”, and the people of Nineveh repented. What did Christ say about this in Luke 11:32? Jonah was displeased. God prepared a gourd to teach Jonah a lesson.

585. In II Kings 17, 18, and 19 we have the record of the righteous reign of good King Hezekiah. None of the kings before or after him was so good in the sight of the Lord, so far as doing that which was right was concerned. He was menaced by the threats of the King of Assyria who had conquered many nations. To what Prophet of God did King Hezekiah send for godly counsel?

586. As the result of God’s intervention in behalf of the King and his people, how many of the Assyrians under King Sennacherib were smitten by the angel of the Lord, according to II Kings 19:35?

587. In II Chronicles 32:27 we are told something about the riches of King Hezekiah; that God made him very rich. He fell sick. At first God sent word to King Hezekiah by Isaiah that his sickness was unto death. But after the King had wept sore and pray to Jehovah, his life was prolonged. Read II Kings 20:6 and tell for how long?

588. During his sickness from what country did representatives visit him and take an inventory of all of the King’s do later on with these possessions in Jerusalem, and also Judah’s sons and daughters?

589. Presently we shall study the prophecies of Isaiah and Jeremiah, but turn now to Isaiah 39:3 to 8, and compare with II Kings 20:14 to 18 and state what you find in common.

590. Hezekiah was succeeded by the most wicked king that ever reigned over Judah; in fact more wicked than the kings of Israel. This king was Manasseh; he reigned 55 years in Jerusalem, according to II Kings 21. In which verse do we find the record that Manasseh seduced them to do more evil than did the nations whom the Lord destroyed before the children of Israel?

591. Manasseh was succeeded by a wicked son, Amon, who reigned in Jerusalem for two years, walking in his father’s steps. But a good king then followed this wicked king. God told this new king that because of the sin of Manasseh the destruction of Jerusalem and the captivity of Judah would surely come to pass, but because of the righteous reign of this new king, God would withhold judgment until he should pass away. What was the name of this good king? Read also II Kings 23:36 and II Kings 23:27.

592. What feast of Jehovah did this good king cause Judah to observe in a great way, according to II Kings 23?

593. Compare II Chronicles 35:21 to 24 and note how this good king died and state what great prophet lamented for him?

594. Jehoahaz, the son of Josiah, reigned but 3 months in Jerusalem. Pharaoh of Egypt dictated his successor, putting on the throne Eliakim, whose name Pharoah changed to Jehoiakim. This man reigned under Egyptian authority. How many years?

595. Jehoiakim did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord. What king came from Babylon and made him servant 3 years and then rebelled against him, according to II Kings 24:1 to 3. For what wicked king’s sake was this done?

596. According to II Kings 24:6 Jehoiachin succeeded Jehoiakim, reigning but 3 months. At that time took place the first invasion of the Babylonians, the sieging of the City of Jerusalem, about 606 B.C. Then Nebuchadnezzar put another king over Jerusalem. What name did Nebuchadnezzar give to this king? Read Matthew 1:12 to 14, and see how many of the last five kings are mentioned among the ancestors of Joseph, the carpenter?

597. When Nebuchadnezzar came against Jerusalem in the 11th year of King Zedekiah there was no bread for the people of the land. II Kings 25:3. The Chaldees pursued after Judah’s King and men of war and overtook and defeated them in the plains of Jericho. II Kings 25:6. What did they do to King Zedekiah, according to II Kings 25:7? Then notice that Jerusalem was again invaded by Nebuchadnezzar’s army and that they burned the Lord’s house, and the homes of the great men of Judah, including the King’s. What did they do with the remnant of the people?

598. The poor of Judea and Jerusalem were left to be vinedressers and husbandmen. II Kings 25:11. Nebuchadnezzar in the year 588, left Gedaliah to be ruler. II Kings 25:22. Whose prison garments were changed and what was he permitted to do all the remaining days of his life?

599. Certainly Jeremiah was God’s prophet concerning Babylon’s capture of Jerusalem and Judah; for “Babylon” is mentioned just 160 times in the Prophecy of Jeremiah? Read Jeremiah 20:5 and 6. God’s Word concerning this Babylonian judgment. Then turn to the last Chapter of Jeremiah, read Jeremiah 52, and tell how many times the word “Babylon” occurs there. “Babylon” occurs 36 times in Jeremiah 51. What words found in Jeremiah 52 are also found in II Kings 25?

600. Read carefully Jeremiah 25:8 to 11, and tell in which verse God calls Nebuchadnezzar His servant, and in which verse God declares this Babylonian captivity shall last 70 years

In the following Scriptures which we present concerning “Peace on Earth,” to the superficial student of the Word of God there may seem to appear one of the supposed-to-be contradictions of the Bible.

To ignore the principle of dispensational divisions in Bible study is a serious blunder. Imaginary contradictions will be one of the unprofitable results of this serious blunder. But now for the three verses

Luke 2:14

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth PEACE, good will toward man.”

Luke 12:5

“Suppose ye that I am come to give PEACE on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division.”

Revelation 6:4

“And there went out another horse that was red; and power was given to him that sat thereon to take PEACE from the earth, and that they should kill one another; and there was given unto him a great sword.”

More than thirty years after the angels brought to the shepherds that heavenly message concerning earthly Peace in connection with the birth of Christ the Lord in the City of David, it was that Christ who spake these words:

“Think not that I am come to send Peace on earth: I came not to send Peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. Does it not here appear on the surface that one statement of the Bible plainly contradicts the other? But we shall see by rightly dividing the Word of truth that this seeming contradiction will disappear. Both declarations are from the unerring Spirit of truth. Just before Christ left this earth to go back to Heaven by the way of Calvary, He said to His disciples: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you.” John 14:27. Now this Peace was not a universal guarantee. It was by no means pledged to Christ’s own nation, Israel. His Peace was left with as many as had received Him by faith, who had thereby become the children of God. “Therefore being justified by faith we have Peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1. Peace during the “Church” dispensation is for the individual disciple of Christ. World Peace belongs to a different age; namely the “Kingdom” age. The “Prince of Peace” age.

Just before the same Christ shall come again to be King over all the earth, the selfsufficient Christless rulers of this world shall say: “Peace and safety then sudden destruction cometh upon them; and they shall not escape.” I Thessalonians 5:3. It is then that the rider of the red horse shall make his appearance for a great time of blood-shed, with his great sword. He shall take Peace from the earth.

Before this “war” horseman shall take Peace from the earth, the Lord Jesus Christ shall take from this earth every individual who has by faith in Him entered the spiritual Kingdom of God, which is righteousness, Peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.

After the days of His indignation, during which God will scourge rebellious humanity, because they know Him not and obey not the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, the government will be transferred to the shoulder of the Prince of Peace.

Let us read together that glorious prophecy found in Isaiah 9:6 and 7:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of His government and Peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.”

Surely no King with any such titles has ever occupied an earthly throne. The Person described in this prophecy is to be the unique combination of Deity and humanity. He is to be the only one of His class; therefore, called Wonderful; a child and mighty God.

The prophecy concerning such an one is in itself wonderful. The fulfillment of the prophecy will be even more wonderful. Almighty God is to be born as a child. He is to be the Prince of Peace, a Governor. He is to be an heir to the throne of David. He is to enjoy a peaceful reign; that is, a reign of uninterrupted, ever increasing, never ending peace. The seat of government is to be David’s throne. David’s throne was an earthly, visible, material throne. That throne is now fallen down; but David’s Lord is coming to build it again. Read that promise in Acts 15:16. These words of Isaiah’s prophecy should banish any doubt that you may have as to its literal fulfillment; “The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will perform this.” Certainly the Lord of Hosts is able to perform anything and everything that He undertakes to perform.

This peaceful reign is to be here on this earth. When? When the Prince of Peace shall be occupying the throne of David. The world is now enjoying comparative Peace in some parts; but as David’s throne is now vacant and the Prince of Peace is now absent, we have no assurance of uninterrupted Peace in any part of this earth. It is altogether too uncertain. In Luke 19:12 this Prince of Peace pictured Himself as a Nobleman. He said, “A certain Nobleman went into a far country to receive for Himself a kingdom, and to return.”

Now we know this Wonderful Prince of Peace has already visited this earth. Yes, the Son has been given. The Child has been born. You are familiar with the story of the Birth of the Holy Child born of the Virgin Mary. About seven hundred years before she gave birth to that Holy Child, which was conceived by the Holy Spirit, God spake by the pen of Micah, the Prophet, in these words:

“Out of thee, Bethlehem, shall He come forth unto me that is to be ruler (or governor) in Israel; whose goings forth have been from, of old, from everlasting.” Micah 5:2.

Christ came as a fulfiller of this prophecy. Matthew 2:6. Some, with Nathaniel, said unto this Divine-human Governor; “Thou art the King of Israel.” But for the most part, His nation cried; “We will not have this man to reign over us.” “Away with Him, Crucify Him.” “He came unto His own and His own received Him not.” Surely He was despised and rejected; the man of sorrows, acquainted with grief; even the grief of Gethsemane, the crown of thorns and the Cross of Calvary. In His humiliation and sorrow He fulfilled the fifty-third Chapter of Isaiah as Israel’s suffering Messiah.

According to God’s more sure Word of prophecy, there will be no world Peace as long as David’s throne is unoccupied.

Now let us turn to Luke’s record and read the account of the birth of the Child, “Wonderful”. According to Luke 2:4 to 11, He was born in the city of David, of the house of David, the son of Mary, the Son of God, the Seed of David. And according to Luke 1:32, this Holy Child Jesus was born to occupy the throne of David. There is not the slightest suggestion in Luke 1:32 and 33 that Jesus was born to be the Head of the Church. No, He was born to reign over the house of Jacob for ever. He was likewise raised from the dead to occupy the throne of David. Acts 2:30 and 31.

Christ is now the glorified God-man in Heaven. Now He is the invisible Head. He reigns over His spiritual house, which is His Body. In so doing, He is not fulfilling this declaration by Gabriel: “He shall reign over the house of Jacob forever.” The Body of Christ is not the house of Jacob. Neither is the individual human heart, that is surrendered to Christ, the throne of David. Every individual who permits the Lord Jesus Christ to reign in his or her heart is conscious of the indwelling Peace of God. But the “Peace on earth”, as announced by the angels of the Lord to the shepherds who were keeping their flocks by night, is the Peace that was prophesied in Isaiah 9:6 and 7, the never-ending Peace of the Prince of Peace sitting on the throne of David.

The Wonderful Child of Isaiah’s prophecy has been born. He was God manifest in the flesh. But the prophecy of Isaiah concerning the glorious reign of the Prince of Peace is still unfulfilled.

In that same prophecy or Isaiah we find many references to that glorious reign of Peace on this earth; such as the second Chapter, the eleventh Chapter and the four closing Chapters.

Christ was born as King of the Jews. He was the Seed of David, born to occupy the throne of David. He did not fulfill, at His first advent, this prophecy: “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.” Jeremiah 23:5. “They shall serve the Lord their God, and David their King, Whom I will raise up unto them.” Jeremiah 30:9.Read also Jeremiah 33:21 to 26—Amos 9:11 to 14. Read also Ezekiel 34:23 and 24 Ezekiel 37:21 to 28 and be assured that the kingdom and throne of David are going to be restored.

“Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the Lord their God, and David their King; and shall fear; the Lord and His goodness in the latter days.” Hosea 3:5.

The Peace of the world must begin with the Peace of Jerusalem. The Prince of Peace came to Jerusalem nineteen hundred years ago and offered Peace to the inhabitants of that city of the Great King. His own people cried, “We have no King but Caesar.” Because they knew not, they crucified the Lord of Glory. Instead of crowning Jesus as their King, Israel crowned Him with thorns. Instead of welcoming Him to David’s throne, they nailed Him to a tree. Before this final, murderous deed, their King had perceived the wickedness of their evil hearts and had gradually withdrawn His offer to the nation. With the mutual rejection of Israel and their Messiah, came His announcement of the postponement of their Messianic Kingdom, which included the postponement of world Peace. There also came the declaration of division instead of Peace. Notice these three significant words; “For from henceforth” Luke 12:52.

“Suppose ye that I am come to give Peace on earth? I tell you, Nay, but rather division:— For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three,” etc. Luke 12:51 and 53.

Certainly this condition prevails in this year, 1931, A.D., and the earth does not yet enjoy even household Peace, while at the same time, optimistic Religious and Political Rulers are promising World Peace.

The rejected Prince of Peace, made Peace by the blood of His cross. Colossians 1:20. This Peace is available for any one and every one who will have it by faith; but Alas! the people of the twentieth century are like the Jews of the first century. The Jews would not then receive their Messiah and King and the masses today will not receive the same Christ as Saviour and Lord. And God declares there is no Peace for the wicked.

Ere long Peace will be taken from this earth for a short time and then poor blind suffering Israel will realize and confess their awful sin. Then with open hearts they will welcome their Divine Deliverer who shall come out of Zion to save them from the hands of their enemies. Then they shall see Him and know Him as the King of Glory, sitting upon His throne on the holy hill of Zion, they shall know Him to be the same Messiah who suffered when they pierced His hands and feet. “The sufferings of Christ and the Glory that should follow.” I Peter 1:11.

Oh, think of the folly of the Postmillennialists’ interpretation of the Word of God, confusing Israel’s Kingdom and their earthly promises, with the Church or Body of Christ with her heavenly promises. The Church will not usher in the millennium Kingdom. While the Kingdom of Heaven is in abeyance, the Church is being called out. Before the Kingdom shall be established on earth the Church shall be caught up. Peace will come when the King of Glory comes to earth. Christ on earth 1900 years ago preached to Israel “Repent the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” “The Kingdom of Heaven will be at hand again soon and then universal Peace. But this is the “Church” age. Salvation by grace for individual sinners. With this salvation Peace with God and the Peace of God.