WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:06.400 Please turn with me in the Word of God to Psalm 81, 00:00:07.360 --> 00:00:13.140 the first half of which we've just sang, Psalm 81. 00:00:14.240 --> 00:00:15.820 Let us hear God's own Word. 00:00:17.960 --> 00:00:23.240 Sing aloud to God our strength, shout for joy to the God of Jacob. 00:00:24.000 --> 00:00:28.460 Raise a song, sound the tambourine, the sweet lyre with the harp. 00:00:28.460 --> 00:00:33.939 Blow the trumpet at the new moon, at the full moon on our feast day. 00:00:34.780 --> 00:00:38.840 For it is a statute for Israel, a rule of the God of Jacob. 00:00:39.679 --> 00:00:43.780 He made it a decree in Joseph when he went out over the land of Egypt. 00:00:44.500 --> 00:00:46.799 I hear a language I had not known. 00:00:47.900 --> 00:00:50.079 I relieved your shoulder of the burden. 00:00:50.840 --> 00:00:52.840 Your hands were freed from the basket. 00:00:53.500 --> 00:00:56.060 In distress you called and I delivered you. 00:00:56.060 --> 00:00:59.260 I answered you in the secret place of thunder. 00:00:59.820 --> 00:01:02.400 I tested you at the waters of Meribah. 00:01:03.440 --> 00:01:06.219 Hear, O my people, while I admonish you. 00:01:06.719 --> 00:01:09.799 O Israel, if you would but listen to me. 00:01:10.700 --> 00:01:13.140 There shall be no strange God among you. 00:01:13.620 --> 00:01:16.060 You shall not bow down to a foreign God. 00:01:16.540 --> 00:01:20.560 For I am the Lord your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. 00:01:21.680 --> 00:01:24.280 Open your mouth wide and I will fill it. 00:01:24.280 --> 00:01:27.760 But my people did not listen to my voice. 00:01:27.920 --> 00:01:29.739 Israel would not submit to me. 00:01:30.260 --> 00:01:34.879 So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own counsels. 00:01:35.700 --> 00:01:37.680 O that my people would listen to me. 00:01:37.920 --> 00:01:40.040 That Israel would walk in my ways. 00:01:40.760 --> 00:01:45.859 I would soon subdue their enemies and turn my hand against their foes. 00:01:45.859 --> 00:01:49.480 Those who hate the Lord would cringe toward him. 00:01:49.780 --> 00:01:51.620 And their fate would last forever. 00:01:52.439 --> 00:01:55.239 But he would feed you with the finest of the wheat. 00:01:55.680 --> 00:01:59.400 And with honey from the rock I would satisfy you. 00:02:01.000 --> 00:02:02.939 So far the reading of God's word. 00:02:02.939 --> 00:02:09.139 I don't know if you've ever given much thought to Psalm 81. 00:02:09.699 --> 00:02:13.879 It's the kind of psalm we might be inclined to pass over rather quickly. 00:02:15.039 --> 00:02:21.520 It doesn't quite fit very neatly our normal or familiar categories for the Psalter. 00:02:21.520 --> 00:02:25.480 It's not a psalm of lament or a penitential psalm. 00:02:26.000 --> 00:02:30.120 It's not a psalm of praise or a wisdom psalm. 00:02:30.400 --> 00:02:36.200 But I would suggest to you that it is a psalm which explains the whole history of redemption. 00:02:37.040 --> 00:02:38.740 Certainly the history of Israel. 00:02:39.879 --> 00:02:44.780 The tragedy and the hope of the ages and the appeal of God to his people. 00:02:44.780 --> 00:02:50.879 At the outset we might think of Psalm 81 as a New Year's psalm. 00:02:51.360 --> 00:02:54.620 That may have struck you when we read verse 3 of our text. 00:02:55.379 --> 00:02:57.340 Blow the trumpet at the new moon. 00:02:57.780 --> 00:02:58.719 At the full moon. 00:02:59.219 --> 00:03:00.319 On our feast day. 00:03:01.699 --> 00:03:06.080 Now all of you careful students of Israel's history and law will know. 00:03:06.560 --> 00:03:08.819 That there was only one month of the year. 00:03:08.819 --> 00:03:12.759 When the trumpet, the ram's horn, was to be sounded. 00:03:12.759 --> 00:03:17.219 Both on the first day and the 15th day of the month. 00:03:18.099 --> 00:03:23.199 And that was the month that was marked by the new year in Israel's history. 00:03:23.739 --> 00:03:27.560 On the first day of that month, strangely enough from our reckoning, 00:03:28.120 --> 00:03:32.599 the seventh month of the year was their New Year's beginning. 00:03:33.239 --> 00:03:35.579 So you can read this in Leviticus 23. 00:03:35.580 --> 00:03:43.520 So this is a psalm in verse 3 that talks about blowing the trumpet on the day of the new moon. 00:03:43.600 --> 00:03:49.480 On the first day of the month, which was the new year for Israel in the liturgical calendar. 00:03:49.760 --> 00:03:52.140 This was a psalm for the new year. 00:03:52.820 --> 00:03:54.280 Not only for the new year. 00:03:54.820 --> 00:03:58.380 It's also a psalm for the feast of booths or tabernacles. 00:03:58.379 --> 00:04:04.579 That was celebrated on the 15th day of the month, that same month, for a week. 00:04:05.740 --> 00:04:12.259 So this was a psalm appointed by God to aid the people in their celebration of the new year. 00:04:12.759 --> 00:04:16.600 And in their celebration of this important feast of tabernacles. 00:04:17.279 --> 00:04:19.719 A feast which remembered the harvest gathered. 00:04:20.300 --> 00:04:25.360 And a feast which remembered that it was the Lord who had fed his people faithfully in the wilderness. 00:04:25.360 --> 00:04:32.280 They dwelt then in tents as a sign that all that they had came from God's hand. 00:04:33.220 --> 00:04:38.780 So this was a psalm appointed both for the new year and for the festival of tabernacles. 00:04:39.400 --> 00:04:44.879 And it's a psalm that then celebrated God and encouraged God's people to come to the Lord. 00:04:45.100 --> 00:04:46.420 To listen to the Lord. 00:04:46.580 --> 00:04:49.360 To be faithful to the Lord their God. 00:04:49.780 --> 00:04:55.100 So this psalm is an important psalm in the calendar of Israel. 00:04:55.360 --> 00:05:01.240 But it's also an important psalm in the structure of the book of psalms. 00:05:01.800 --> 00:05:07.120 As some of you will know, the book of psalms is divided into five books. 00:05:07.379 --> 00:05:11.680 Which makes the third book the central book of the Psalter. 00:05:12.639 --> 00:05:15.180 And this psalm is in that third book. 00:05:15.540 --> 00:05:21.620 In fact, this psalm is the central psalm of that central book of the Psalter. 00:05:21.620 --> 00:05:30.579 So there's a special kind of spotlight that scripture itself puts on this psalm as the central psalm of the Psalter. 00:05:30.699 --> 00:05:31.579 Not numerically. 00:05:32.019 --> 00:05:35.540 We can't divide 150 by 2 and get 81. 00:05:36.240 --> 00:05:40.699 But central in terms of the way the Psalter itself is divided. 00:05:40.699 --> 00:05:49.120 And it's further interesting to note that not only is this the central psalm in the central book of the Psalter. 00:05:49.479 --> 00:05:52.519 But that the central verse of this psalm. 00:05:53.060 --> 00:05:54.959 The second half of verse 8. 00:05:55.719 --> 00:06:01.339 Focuses our attention on one of the great statements of God's truth. 00:06:01.339 --> 00:06:05.419 If my people would but listen. 00:06:06.199 --> 00:06:09.259 If Israel would but listen. 00:06:10.259 --> 00:06:12.899 And in that statement there is an echo. 00:06:13.099 --> 00:06:20.159 A repetition almost of what Israel regarded as the single most important verse in their law. 00:06:20.319 --> 00:06:21.519 The great Shema. 00:06:22.379 --> 00:06:24.739 That verse from Deuteronomy chapter 6. 00:06:24.739 --> 00:06:26.579 Hear, O Israel. 00:06:27.199 --> 00:06:29.039 The Lord your God. 00:06:29.339 --> 00:06:30.939 The Lord is one. 00:06:32.000 --> 00:06:37.560 And this psalm then picks up that theme at the beginning of the new year for God's people. 00:06:38.099 --> 00:06:39.019 And says to them. 00:06:39.179 --> 00:06:39.639 Israel. 00:06:40.099 --> 00:06:41.459 If you would but listen. 00:06:41.859 --> 00:06:43.779 If you would but open your ears. 00:06:43.959 --> 00:06:45.179 If you would but hear. 00:06:45.560 --> 00:06:47.199 If you would but follow me. 00:06:47.599 --> 00:06:48.839 How I would bless you. 00:06:49.379 --> 00:06:50.979 How I would encourage you. 00:06:51.359 --> 00:06:52.699 How I would meet with you. 00:06:54.079 --> 00:06:57.279 And this truth for the new year for Israel. 00:06:57.279 --> 00:07:00.279 Takes on a special pointedness. 00:07:00.279 --> 00:07:02.819 A special meaning for us. 00:07:02.899 --> 00:07:06.099 As we remember that book three of the Psalter. 00:07:06.500 --> 00:07:09.959 Is a book of a crisis of God's people. 00:07:09.959 --> 00:07:14.180 It's a book that particularly focuses upon the exile. 00:07:14.180 --> 00:07:16.859 Upon the destruction of the land. 00:07:16.859 --> 00:07:18.859 The destruction of the temple. 00:07:18.859 --> 00:07:20.959 On the loss of the kingship. 00:07:20.959 --> 00:07:24.259 On the apparent failure of the promise of God. 00:07:24.259 --> 00:07:27.719 That David's sons would ever sit on David's throne. 00:07:27.720 --> 00:07:31.340 And so in the midst of their crisis. 00:07:31.340 --> 00:07:32.860 The enemy surrounding. 00:07:32.860 --> 00:07:34.140 The enemy conquering. 00:07:34.140 --> 00:07:37.760 The enemy carrying the people away from the land of promise. 00:07:38.140 --> 00:07:39.220 Destroying the temple. 00:07:39.420 --> 00:07:40.700 Destroying the kingship. 00:07:41.480 --> 00:07:44.620 Comes this pointed word from the Lord. 00:07:45.280 --> 00:07:46.740 At the center of the Psalter. 00:07:47.300 --> 00:07:50.140 If Israel would but listen. 00:07:50.139 --> 00:07:53.419 So it seemed good to me tonight. 00:07:53.419 --> 00:07:55.039 That we as God's people. 00:07:55.039 --> 00:07:58.219 Would reflect upon this call of our God. 00:07:58.219 --> 00:07:59.240 To listen. 00:07:59.500 --> 00:08:00.680 To listen to his word. 00:08:00.819 --> 00:08:02.000 To treasure his word. 00:08:02.339 --> 00:08:03.539 To follow his word. 00:08:04.879 --> 00:08:07.360 And so in this central Psalm. 00:08:07.639 --> 00:08:09.699 We see this central proclamation. 00:08:10.139 --> 00:08:13.279 That we are called to be a people of the word. 00:08:13.979 --> 00:08:15.639 A people who treasure the word. 00:08:15.740 --> 00:08:17.000 Who listen to the word. 00:08:17.099 --> 00:08:18.459 Who hide it in our hearts. 00:08:18.459 --> 00:08:21.159 Who are eager to study and know the word. 00:08:21.439 --> 00:08:22.519 And to grow in it. 00:08:23.819 --> 00:08:26.939 And here that proclamation of the word. 00:08:26.939 --> 00:08:29.259 Reminds us in the first place. 00:08:30.000 --> 00:08:33.340 That the word of God is a word of deliverance. 00:08:34.439 --> 00:08:38.259 God here reminds his people of how gracious he's been to them. 00:08:38.579 --> 00:08:40.980 How kind he's been to them. 00:08:41.100 --> 00:08:43.399 How wonderfully he's provided for them. 00:08:43.819 --> 00:08:46.559 Especially in rescuing them from Egypt. 00:08:46.740 --> 00:08:48.360 From the house of bondage. 00:08:48.460 --> 00:08:50.759 When they were enslaved. 00:08:51.460 --> 00:08:54.600 When their life seemed so futile. 00:08:54.940 --> 00:08:55.860 And meaningless. 00:08:56.740 --> 00:08:59.040 When they seemed far from God. 00:08:59.100 --> 00:09:00.980 And far from the land of promise. 00:09:01.340 --> 00:09:02.560 God came to them. 00:09:02.800 --> 00:09:04.100 And he rescued them. 00:09:04.620 --> 00:09:05.980 He delivered them. 00:09:06.620 --> 00:09:08.300 He reached out his hand. 00:09:08.460 --> 00:09:09.840 To a slave people. 00:09:10.160 --> 00:09:11.500 And he saved them. 00:09:11.500 --> 00:09:14.039 So he wants his people. 00:09:14.039 --> 00:09:16.460 To listen to that word of salvation. 00:09:16.460 --> 00:09:18.159 That word of promise. 00:09:18.720 --> 00:09:20.659 Spoken so poetically. 00:09:20.940 --> 00:09:21.779 So beautifully. 00:09:21.779 --> 00:09:23.740 In this psalm in particular. 00:09:24.679 --> 00:09:26.019 God says to his people. 00:09:26.500 --> 00:09:28.320 I removed the burden. 00:09:28.320 --> 00:09:29.360 From your shoulder. 00:09:30.179 --> 00:09:31.940 I removed the basket. 00:09:31.940 --> 00:09:33.000 From your hands. 00:09:34.279 --> 00:09:35.600 Israel had labored. 00:09:35.820 --> 00:09:36.799 To build bricks. 00:09:36.799 --> 00:09:38.659 To make bricks. 00:09:38.659 --> 00:09:40.120 To build Pharaoh's monuments. 00:09:40.859 --> 00:09:42.419 And the burden on their shoulders. 00:09:42.699 --> 00:09:43.959 And the burden of their hands. 00:09:43.959 --> 00:09:45.219 Was heavy upon them. 00:09:46.099 --> 00:09:48.079 And God came and rescued them. 00:09:48.439 --> 00:09:49.219 Rescued them. 00:09:49.359 --> 00:09:51.759 From what seemed to be the most powerful force. 00:09:51.759 --> 00:09:52.899 On the face of the earth. 00:09:53.599 --> 00:09:55.059 But God displayed. 00:09:55.059 --> 00:09:56.919 That he was the great power. 00:09:57.919 --> 00:09:59.139 It was not Pharaoh. 00:09:59.139 --> 00:10:01.199 Whom the Egyptians thought of. 00:10:01.360 --> 00:10:02.460 As a living God. 00:10:02.580 --> 00:10:03.879 Who had power on earth. 00:10:04.240 --> 00:10:06.399 But it was the Lord God of Israel. 00:10:06.980 --> 00:10:08.600 The creator of heaven and earth. 00:10:08.879 --> 00:10:10.439 The rescuer of his people. 00:10:10.840 --> 00:10:12.399 Who was the great power. 00:10:13.439 --> 00:10:15.480 And so the Lord reminds his people. 00:10:15.720 --> 00:10:17.720 With this word of deliverance. 00:10:18.100 --> 00:10:19.480 I am the Lord your God. 00:10:19.679 --> 00:10:20.620 Who brought you up. 00:10:20.879 --> 00:10:21.699 Out of Egypt. 00:10:22.960 --> 00:10:25.080 And then that word of deliverance. 00:10:25.340 --> 00:10:25.639 Says. 00:10:26.480 --> 00:10:28.299 As I acted to save you. 00:10:28.299 --> 00:10:29.659 And to deliver you. 00:10:29.839 --> 00:10:31.899 And to show you mercy in the past. 00:10:32.339 --> 00:10:33.839 So I will in the future. 00:10:33.979 --> 00:10:35.899 If you will but listen to me. 00:10:36.939 --> 00:10:39.719 I will soon subdue your enemies. 00:10:40.279 --> 00:10:42.019 He says in verse 14. 00:10:42.939 --> 00:10:45.620 I will feed and satisfy you. 00:10:46.240 --> 00:10:47.979 He says in verse 16. 00:10:48.919 --> 00:10:51.059 The people who had been hungry. 00:10:51.299 --> 00:10:51.919 In Egypt. 00:10:52.479 --> 00:10:54.579 The people who had been deprived. 00:10:54.579 --> 00:10:55.379 In Egypt. 00:10:55.819 --> 00:10:57.079 He says to them now. 00:10:57.080 --> 00:10:58.500 I will feed you. 00:10:58.620 --> 00:11:00.280 With the finest of the wheat. 00:11:00.680 --> 00:11:01.680 I will feed you. 00:11:01.820 --> 00:11:03.040 With honey from the rock. 00:11:03.259 --> 00:11:04.879 I will satisfy you. 00:11:05.759 --> 00:11:07.020 That's the deliverance. 00:11:07.160 --> 00:11:08.320 That I promised to you. 00:11:09.400 --> 00:11:10.520 It's the deliverance. 00:11:10.700 --> 00:11:12.460 That we see in our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:11:12.520 --> 00:11:13.020 Isn't it? 00:11:13.379 --> 00:11:15.040 He's the one who rescued us. 00:11:15.040 --> 00:11:16.400 From the house of bondage. 00:11:16.400 --> 00:11:16.940 To sin. 00:11:17.340 --> 00:11:18.980 He's the one who took from us. 00:11:19.060 --> 00:11:19.540 The burden. 00:11:19.860 --> 00:11:20.780 Of our shoulders. 00:11:21.240 --> 00:11:21.900 Our sin. 00:11:22.060 --> 00:11:23.060 The yoke of the law. 00:11:23.680 --> 00:11:25.460 He's the one who freed our hands. 00:11:25.460 --> 00:11:26.280 To serve him. 00:11:26.759 --> 00:11:28.980 He's the one who has delivered us. 00:11:29.620 --> 00:11:32.040 And he's the one who promises us. 00:11:32.040 --> 00:11:34.400 That there is a great deliverance to come. 00:11:35.080 --> 00:11:36.240 He's the one who says. 00:11:36.440 --> 00:11:37.620 There is a new heaven. 00:11:37.620 --> 00:11:38.700 And a new earth. 00:11:38.860 --> 00:11:39.940 That awaits us. 00:11:40.540 --> 00:11:43.879 There is a place in which righteousness dwells forever. 00:11:44.560 --> 00:11:46.940 And in which we will dwell in glory. 00:11:47.940 --> 00:11:49.560 And if we are a people who listen. 00:11:49.559 --> 00:11:53.519 We will know that deliverance from sin today. 00:11:53.779 --> 00:11:56.099 And from all sorrow tomorrow. 00:11:56.839 --> 00:11:59.179 When the glory of our Lord is revealed. 00:11:59.779 --> 00:12:01.359 He wants us to listen. 00:12:01.779 --> 00:12:04.859 To embrace that word of deliverance. 00:12:06.139 --> 00:12:10.019 He also wants us to listen to a word of direction. 00:12:10.719 --> 00:12:11.959 And that's our second point. 00:12:11.960 --> 00:12:14.080 This psalm reminds us. 00:12:14.259 --> 00:12:15.780 That God gave to his people. 00:12:16.180 --> 00:12:16.660 Statutes. 00:12:17.360 --> 00:12:17.879 Decrees. 00:12:18.180 --> 00:12:18.820 Laws. 00:12:19.180 --> 00:12:20.940 For the way that they were to live. 00:12:21.840 --> 00:12:24.040 The direction guided their worship. 00:12:24.280 --> 00:12:25.639 It guided their calendar. 00:12:25.900 --> 00:12:27.200 It guided their lives. 00:12:27.580 --> 00:12:28.820 They were to listen to him. 00:12:28.980 --> 00:12:29.860 And to follow him. 00:12:30.660 --> 00:12:32.759 They were to follow the God who speaks. 00:12:33.220 --> 00:12:34.379 Who reveals himself. 00:12:34.519 --> 00:12:35.519 Who tells the truth. 00:12:35.780 --> 00:12:38.100 Not to follow the false gods of the nations. 00:12:38.100 --> 00:12:41.259 So we read in our text. 00:12:41.420 --> 00:12:42.740 This direction from God. 00:12:43.460 --> 00:12:44.340 Keep the new moon. 00:12:44.480 --> 00:12:45.300 And the full moon. 00:12:45.620 --> 00:12:47.019 The feast of tabernacles. 00:12:47.779 --> 00:12:48.620 Blow the trumpet. 00:12:49.360 --> 00:12:51.180 It is a statute for Israel. 00:12:51.700 --> 00:12:53.440 It is a decree in Joseph. 00:12:55.500 --> 00:12:57.860 But what we find in this direction. 00:12:58.540 --> 00:13:01.139 Is in fact a complaint about worship. 00:13:02.139 --> 00:13:04.779 Is Israel busy on the new moon? 00:13:04.779 --> 00:13:08.240 Do the priests not have a trumpet? 00:13:09.000 --> 00:13:10.879 That sounds absurd on the face of it. 00:13:10.919 --> 00:13:11.419 Doesn't it? 00:13:11.779 --> 00:13:13.459 But this is the charge of God. 00:13:13.720 --> 00:13:16.139 That his people have not kept his commandments. 00:13:16.980 --> 00:13:18.339 Time and time again. 00:13:18.500 --> 00:13:20.480 Israel is unwilling to obey. 00:13:20.819 --> 00:13:23.100 Even the most straightforward commands. 00:13:23.299 --> 00:13:24.139 That God gives. 00:13:25.100 --> 00:13:26.740 So he tells them again. 00:13:26.839 --> 00:13:28.120 Like he told Moses. 00:13:28.339 --> 00:13:29.799 Who summoned all of Israel. 00:13:30.360 --> 00:13:30.899 And says. 00:13:31.059 --> 00:13:32.139 Hear Israel. 00:13:32.139 --> 00:13:32.179 Hear Israel. 00:13:32.720 --> 00:13:33.659 The decrees. 00:13:33.899 --> 00:13:34.480 The laws. 00:13:34.600 --> 00:13:36.519 I declare in your hearing today. 00:13:37.059 --> 00:13:37.679 Learn them. 00:13:38.120 --> 00:13:38.799 Follow them. 00:13:39.179 --> 00:13:40.519 I am the Lord your God. 00:13:40.600 --> 00:13:42.259 Who brought you out of slavery. 00:13:43.399 --> 00:13:45.980 You shall have no other gods before me. 00:13:46.720 --> 00:13:49.919 You shall not make for yourself any image of me. 00:13:50.100 --> 00:13:53.259 But you shall worship me as I direct you. 00:13:55.019 --> 00:13:56.659 And what do the people do? 00:13:58.139 --> 00:14:00.379 They wander after false gods. 00:14:00.379 --> 00:14:03.439 They turn themselves to idols. 00:14:04.360 --> 00:14:07.200 They show that recurring human tendency. 00:14:07.200 --> 00:14:11.519 To think that somehow we can improve on God's ways. 00:14:13.100 --> 00:14:16.980 They think as the Heidelberg Catechism puts it so pointedly. 00:14:17.419 --> 00:14:19.860 That they can be wiser than God. 00:14:20.720 --> 00:14:22.360 And they stumble over that. 00:14:22.419 --> 00:14:23.299 Again and again. 00:14:23.679 --> 00:14:26.580 Stopping up their ears to live by their own wisdom. 00:14:26.580 --> 00:14:31.200 So God brings this word of direction to His people. 00:14:31.320 --> 00:14:32.240 That they would listen. 00:14:32.639 --> 00:14:33.460 In their lives. 00:14:33.540 --> 00:14:33.740 Yes. 00:14:33.840 --> 00:14:35.379 But first of all in their worship. 00:14:36.200 --> 00:14:37.460 God says to His people. 00:14:37.580 --> 00:14:39.840 If you don't listen to me in my presence. 00:14:40.180 --> 00:14:41.940 When you come to meet with me. 00:14:42.040 --> 00:14:43.259 And fellowship with me. 00:14:43.620 --> 00:14:45.820 How will you listen when you're somewhere else? 00:14:48.120 --> 00:14:49.600 And that comes then. 00:14:49.820 --> 00:14:53.180 As a question that we should also ponder in our hearts. 00:14:53.179 --> 00:14:56.219 Individually and as the people of God together. 00:14:57.000 --> 00:14:59.039 Do you long to hear God's word? 00:14:59.339 --> 00:15:00.819 Do we long to know it? 00:15:00.979 --> 00:15:01.819 And to follow it? 00:15:02.259 --> 00:15:06.539 Is it the desire of our hearts to live as God would have us to live? 00:15:07.939 --> 00:15:10.199 So as we contemplate this text. 00:15:10.379 --> 00:15:11.979 Let's examine our hearts. 00:15:12.620 --> 00:15:15.039 Let's listen to this direction from the Lord. 00:15:15.039 --> 00:15:17.120 That we should listen to Him. 00:15:17.459 --> 00:15:22.039 And commit ourselves anew in earnestness to listening to Him. 00:15:22.039 --> 00:15:28.419 There's also at the center of this psalm a somber word. 00:15:28.860 --> 00:15:31.860 A word of destruction for the enemies of God. 00:15:31.959 --> 00:15:33.139 A word of judgment. 00:15:33.939 --> 00:15:34.819 Our third point. 00:15:36.379 --> 00:15:39.120 This psalm reminds us that there is a judgment coming. 00:15:40.559 --> 00:15:44.480 In the day of judgment the world will be divided into two. 00:15:45.599 --> 00:15:47.679 There will be the godly and the wicked. 00:15:47.679 --> 00:15:51.939 Those who have been delivered and those who are lost. 00:15:52.319 --> 00:15:55.859 Those who have listened to God and those who have rejected God. 00:15:56.219 --> 00:16:00.299 Those who have worshipped God and those who have worshipped false gods. 00:16:01.059 --> 00:16:04.819 In the last day there will be only two groups of humanity. 00:16:05.219 --> 00:16:06.399 Only two camps. 00:16:06.399 --> 00:16:10.959 And this psalm challenges us to ask ourselves. 00:16:11.319 --> 00:16:13.439 Where will we stand on that great day? 00:16:14.379 --> 00:16:15.980 Will we stand in Christ? 00:16:16.699 --> 00:16:17.860 As His people. 00:16:18.000 --> 00:16:20.100 As those who have listened to Him. 00:16:20.220 --> 00:16:21.079 And served Him. 00:16:21.199 --> 00:16:21.819 And worshipped. 00:16:21.939 --> 00:16:22.759 And trusted Him. 00:16:23.039 --> 00:16:24.120 Above all things. 00:16:25.059 --> 00:16:26.939 Or will we stand with the wicked. 00:16:27.779 --> 00:16:29.399 And face eternal loss. 00:16:29.399 --> 00:16:35.559 That's what this psalm calls us to think about with this word of destruction. 00:16:37.579 --> 00:16:41.340 But as we see this central proclamation of the psalm. 00:16:41.439 --> 00:16:42.919 This word of deliverance. 00:16:43.079 --> 00:16:45.419 This word of direction. 00:16:45.659 --> 00:16:47.019 This word of destruction. 00:16:47.779 --> 00:16:50.679 We also see a great problem. 00:16:51.000 --> 00:16:51.439 Don't we? 00:16:52.100 --> 00:16:53.699 That God declares. 00:16:54.179 --> 00:16:56.399 My people have not listened to me. 00:16:56.399 --> 00:17:00.959 That's the tragedy of the time in which this psalm was written. 00:17:01.480 --> 00:17:02.079 Verse 11. 00:17:02.539 --> 00:17:04.599 But my people did not listen to me. 00:17:04.960 --> 00:17:06.980 Israel would not submit to me. 00:17:08.319 --> 00:17:13.579 And while we know that may have been particularly true of Israel at the time of the exile. 00:17:14.139 --> 00:17:18.180 It was true of Israel over and over and over again. 00:17:19.839 --> 00:17:22.759 Moses prophesied it at the end of Deuteronomy. 00:17:23.500 --> 00:17:25.440 That the people would not listen. 00:17:26.400 --> 00:17:28.300 That in the days of prosperity. 00:17:28.900 --> 00:17:30.759 The people would be forgetful. 00:17:31.140 --> 00:17:32.000 And lack gratitude. 00:17:32.960 --> 00:17:34.820 And in the days of difficulty. 00:17:35.220 --> 00:17:37.200 The people would complain and grumble. 00:17:37.860 --> 00:17:39.880 That they would not listen to God. 00:17:41.160 --> 00:17:43.540 So there is a huge problem here. 00:17:43.600 --> 00:17:44.160 Isn't there? 00:17:44.480 --> 00:17:48.180 The problem is that God promises blessings to those who listen. 00:17:48.180 --> 00:17:50.120 But the people don't listen. 00:17:50.440 --> 00:17:52.340 You and I don't listen the way we should. 00:17:53.060 --> 00:17:55.160 We don't always love the Lord. 00:17:55.380 --> 00:17:56.320 And serve Him. 00:17:56.400 --> 00:17:59.180 We are too prone to turn aside. 00:17:59.180 --> 00:18:08.100 One of the particularly powerful ways in which God expresses this failure on our part. 00:18:08.099 --> 00:18:09.679 Is in verse 12. 00:18:10.059 --> 00:18:11.319 Where God says. 00:18:11.619 --> 00:18:14.759 So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts. 00:18:14.919 --> 00:18:17.099 To follow their own counsels. 00:18:18.619 --> 00:18:21.079 This is a terrible thing to have happen. 00:18:22.359 --> 00:18:24.139 To get what you want. 00:18:24.879 --> 00:18:27.119 When we follow our own wisdom. 00:18:27.119 --> 00:18:29.899 Think about Israel for a moment. 00:18:29.899 --> 00:18:30.119 Think about Israel for a moment. 00:18:30.119 --> 00:18:31.779 As it was coming out of Egypt. 00:18:32.399 --> 00:18:37.399 What was the repeated desire of their heart whenever any trouble came along? 00:18:37.799 --> 00:18:40.739 Whenever there was any shortage of water to drink. 00:18:40.959 --> 00:18:43.459 Whenever there was any shortage of food to eat. 00:18:43.899 --> 00:18:45.500 What was their counsel? 00:18:45.719 --> 00:18:48.519 What was the desire of their heart at that moment? 00:18:48.519 --> 00:18:51.799 Oh, let's go back to Egypt. 00:18:51.799 --> 00:18:51.879 Egypt. 00:18:51.879 --> 00:18:51.920 Egypt. 00:18:51.920 --> 00:18:52.000 Egypt. 00:18:52.000 --> 00:18:52.480 Egypt. 00:18:52.480 --> 00:18:53.879 Where we had it so good. 00:18:53.879 --> 00:18:57.019 Where we had meat in the pot. 00:18:57.440 --> 00:19:00.319 Where we had leeks and garlic. 00:19:00.319 --> 00:19:01.900 Let's go back to Egypt. 00:19:01.900 --> 00:19:02.019 Egypt. 00:19:02.019 --> 00:19:02.119 Egypt. 00:19:02.119 --> 00:19:06.639 And we stand back and say. 00:19:06.639 --> 00:19:09.279 How could any people be so foolish. 00:19:09.279 --> 00:19:13.500 As to think they had it good as slaves in Egypt? 00:19:14.720 --> 00:19:17.099 But that was the lie they told themselves. 00:19:17.579 --> 00:19:20.420 That was the delusion they visited upon themselves. 00:19:20.759 --> 00:19:22.859 And what a terrible judgment it is. 00:19:22.859 --> 00:19:28.019 For God to give foolish sinners over to the devices of their own hearts. 00:19:29.119 --> 00:19:31.079 May that never happen to us. 00:19:31.220 --> 00:19:33.440 May we never experience that judgment. 00:19:35.399 --> 00:19:38.220 But this is the problem of the people of God. 00:19:39.279 --> 00:19:42.019 That over and over again we drift away. 00:19:43.019 --> 00:19:45.019 We drift away from the truth. 00:19:45.660 --> 00:19:48.279 We neglect such a great salvation. 00:19:48.819 --> 00:19:51.799 As the book of Hebrews cautions us against. 00:19:52.519 --> 00:19:54.700 We grow cold in our love. 00:19:55.000 --> 00:19:56.240 Or at least lukewarm. 00:19:56.460 --> 00:19:59.339 As the book of Revelation cautions us against. 00:20:00.819 --> 00:20:03.000 This is the great problem we face. 00:20:03.200 --> 00:20:04.500 If God will bless us. 00:20:04.539 --> 00:20:05.619 If we listen to him. 00:20:05.819 --> 00:20:08.759 But as a people we are not inclined to listen to him. 00:20:08.759 --> 00:20:11.359 That we so often drift away from him. 00:20:11.359 --> 00:20:12.940 What will become of us? 00:20:14.420 --> 00:20:16.140 We have to ask ourselves. 00:20:16.339 --> 00:20:17.740 What will become of us? 00:20:18.460 --> 00:20:19.539 What is our hope? 00:20:19.920 --> 00:20:21.779 In a situation where God says. 00:20:22.319 --> 00:20:23.819 If you listen I'll bless you. 00:20:24.160 --> 00:20:26.119 But that the history of God's people. 00:20:26.500 --> 00:20:28.619 Is that we are not very good listeners. 00:20:28.619 --> 00:20:35.039 The solution I think only hinted at. 00:20:35.039 --> 00:20:36.219 In this psalm. 00:20:36.219 --> 00:20:37.919 Is that we need someone. 00:20:37.919 --> 00:20:39.879 Who will listen in our place. 00:20:41.319 --> 00:20:42.719 It's interesting then. 00:20:42.839 --> 00:20:44.599 How Psalm 81 begins. 00:20:46.000 --> 00:20:46.899 Sing for joy. 00:20:47.139 --> 00:20:49.019 To God our strength. 00:20:49.979 --> 00:20:51.919 Who will fight for us. 00:20:52.279 --> 00:20:53.939 Who will listen for us. 00:20:54.039 --> 00:20:55.099 Who will save us. 00:20:55.539 --> 00:20:56.639 Who will deliver us. 00:20:56.640 --> 00:20:57.960 Only God. 00:20:57.960 --> 00:20:59.320 Our strength. 00:21:00.380 --> 00:21:01.759 He's our only hope. 00:21:03.100 --> 00:21:04.540 And if we turn back. 00:21:04.660 --> 00:21:05.420 To Psalm 80. 00:21:05.940 --> 00:21:07.060 Part of the context. 00:21:07.220 --> 00:21:08.080 For Psalm 81. 00:21:08.800 --> 00:21:09.480 We find. 00:21:09.900 --> 00:21:10.960 There a great prayer. 00:21:10.960 --> 00:21:11.880 For deliverance. 00:21:12.000 --> 00:21:13.720 A prayer that God would act. 00:21:13.980 --> 00:21:15.480 That God would restore. 00:21:16.440 --> 00:21:17.780 And how will God act. 00:21:18.040 --> 00:21:19.960 How will God restore. 00:21:21.020 --> 00:21:22.020 Turn again. 00:21:22.180 --> 00:21:22.780 We read. 00:21:22.900 --> 00:21:23.960 In verse 14. 00:21:23.960 --> 00:21:24.720 Of Psalm 80. 00:21:25.279 --> 00:21:25.980 Turn again. 00:21:26.079 --> 00:21:27.079 O God of hosts. 00:21:27.640 --> 00:21:28.759 Look down from heaven. 00:21:28.759 --> 00:21:29.440 And see. 00:21:30.039 --> 00:21:31.640 Have regard for this vine. 00:21:31.880 --> 00:21:32.559 The stock. 00:21:32.680 --> 00:21:33.960 That your right hand planted. 00:21:34.440 --> 00:21:35.360 For the son. 00:21:35.680 --> 00:21:37.200 Whom you made strong. 00:21:37.340 --> 00:21:38.180 For yourself. 00:21:39.860 --> 00:21:41.779 And in verse 17. 00:21:42.140 --> 00:21:42.940 Of Psalm 80. 00:21:43.420 --> 00:21:44.340 Let your hand. 00:21:44.420 --> 00:21:45.180 Be on the man. 00:21:45.240 --> 00:21:46.299 Of your right hand. 00:21:46.700 --> 00:21:47.759 The son of man. 00:21:47.860 --> 00:21:49.519 Whom you have made strong. 00:21:49.740 --> 00:21:50.680 For yourself. 00:21:50.680 --> 00:21:54.539 Israel needs a redeemer. 00:21:55.539 --> 00:21:57.500 Israel needs a son of man. 00:21:57.980 --> 00:21:59.240 Israel needs God. 00:21:59.480 --> 00:22:00.140 To arise. 00:22:00.320 --> 00:22:01.500 And provide a savior. 00:22:01.500 --> 00:22:02.100 For them. 00:22:02.480 --> 00:22:03.660 In their hopelessness. 00:22:05.060 --> 00:22:05.880 And so. 00:22:06.039 --> 00:22:06.539 This people. 00:22:06.740 --> 00:22:07.180 In the midst. 00:22:07.299 --> 00:22:08.019 Of a crisis. 00:22:08.019 --> 00:22:09.019 Of kingship. 00:22:09.400 --> 00:22:10.580 Need to look forward. 00:22:10.799 --> 00:22:11.600 To a king. 00:22:11.900 --> 00:22:13.700 Who will be God's strength. 00:22:13.820 --> 00:22:14.660 For his people. 00:22:16.660 --> 00:22:17.660 It's intriguing. 00:22:17.820 --> 00:22:18.740 That Hebrew word. 00:22:18.840 --> 00:22:19.519 For strength. 00:22:19.519 --> 00:22:20.599 Is found. 00:22:20.599 --> 00:22:21.299 In the name. 00:22:21.299 --> 00:22:23.460 Of one of Israel's own kings. 00:22:24.539 --> 00:22:25.059 Uzziah. 00:22:26.379 --> 00:22:26.900 Uzziah. 00:22:26.900 --> 00:22:27.220 Uzziah means. 00:22:27.359 --> 00:22:27.960 The strength. 00:22:28.059 --> 00:22:28.660 Of Jehovah. 00:22:30.180 --> 00:22:31.240 But Uzziah. 00:22:31.379 --> 00:22:31.779 Of course. 00:22:31.839 --> 00:22:32.539 Was a failure. 00:22:32.539 --> 00:22:33.359 As a king. 00:22:33.799 --> 00:22:34.420 He died. 00:22:34.519 --> 00:22:34.980 A leper. 00:22:35.139 --> 00:22:36.220 Because he did not. 00:22:36.299 --> 00:22:37.279 Listen to the Lord. 00:22:38.740 --> 00:22:40.099 But in a real sense. 00:22:40.180 --> 00:22:40.700 We can say. 00:22:40.819 --> 00:22:42.119 That the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:22:42.240 --> 00:22:42.940 Is the true. 00:22:43.200 --> 00:22:43.720 Uzziah. 00:22:43.960 --> 00:22:45.200 He's the true strength. 00:22:45.200 --> 00:22:45.700 Of God. 00:22:45.759 --> 00:22:47.180 The true son of David. 00:22:47.559 --> 00:22:48.259 The true one. 00:22:48.259 --> 00:22:48.859 Who comes. 00:22:48.940 --> 00:22:50.140 To rescue his people. 00:22:50.140 --> 00:22:51.619 To be the strength. 00:22:51.619 --> 00:22:52.680 Of God for us. 00:22:52.680 --> 00:22:53.900 When we are weak. 00:22:53.900 --> 00:22:54.740 In ourselves. 00:22:56.359 --> 00:22:57.519 And what is. 00:22:57.640 --> 00:22:58.319 The great. 00:22:58.740 --> 00:22:59.700 Or one of the great. 00:22:59.799 --> 00:23:01.099 Essential truths. 00:23:01.099 --> 00:23:02.920 Of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:23:03.599 --> 00:23:04.940 He always. 00:23:05.039 --> 00:23:05.799 Listened. 00:23:06.079 --> 00:23:06.819 To his father. 00:23:07.819 --> 00:23:08.779 His father. 00:23:09.000 --> 00:23:09.599 Always. 00:23:10.000 --> 00:23:10.920 Could say of him. 00:23:11.640 --> 00:23:13.420 This is my beloved son. 00:23:13.420 --> 00:23:14.259 In whom. 00:23:14.259 --> 00:23:14.279 In whom. 00:23:14.380 --> 00:23:15.720 I am well pleased. 00:23:17.320 --> 00:23:18.820 It was Jesus Christ. 00:23:18.820 --> 00:23:19.759 Who came and said. 00:23:20.180 --> 00:23:21.720 I have come to do your will. 00:23:21.940 --> 00:23:23.279 And he did it perfectly. 00:23:23.480 --> 00:23:24.960 Because he always listened. 00:23:26.680 --> 00:23:28.400 We can see that wonderfully. 00:23:28.560 --> 00:23:29.039 Can't we? 00:23:29.400 --> 00:23:30.480 In the temptations. 00:23:30.480 --> 00:23:31.360 Jesus faced. 00:23:31.460 --> 00:23:32.000 At the beginning. 00:23:32.120 --> 00:23:33.380 Of his public ministry. 00:23:34.660 --> 00:23:35.680 There he was. 00:23:35.720 --> 00:23:36.279 In the wilderness. 00:23:36.640 --> 00:23:37.440 Forty days. 00:23:38.360 --> 00:23:38.880 Hungry. 00:23:39.720 --> 00:23:40.240 Weakened. 00:23:40.240 --> 00:23:41.940 And the evil one. 00:23:42.059 --> 00:23:42.640 Came to him. 00:23:42.779 --> 00:23:43.579 And tempted him. 00:23:43.660 --> 00:23:44.220 By saying. 00:23:44.620 --> 00:23:45.680 Turn these stones. 00:23:45.680 --> 00:23:46.359 Into bread. 00:23:47.440 --> 00:23:48.480 He had a right. 00:23:48.559 --> 00:23:49.000 To eat. 00:23:49.940 --> 00:23:50.859 It seemed. 00:23:50.960 --> 00:23:51.660 In some ways. 00:23:51.779 --> 00:23:53.099 A reasonable request. 00:23:54.059 --> 00:23:55.099 But how does. 00:23:55.220 --> 00:23:56.380 Our savior respond. 00:23:56.720 --> 00:23:57.700 How does God. 00:23:57.779 --> 00:23:58.620 Our strength. 00:23:58.779 --> 00:23:59.339 Respond. 00:23:59.420 --> 00:24:00.319 How does the true. 00:24:00.319 --> 00:24:01.220 King of David. 00:24:01.220 --> 00:24:01.900 Respond. 00:24:02.519 --> 00:24:03.140 He says. 00:24:03.960 --> 00:24:04.359 Man. 00:24:04.579 --> 00:24:05.539 Shall not live. 00:24:05.720 --> 00:24:06.500 By bread alone. 00:24:07.259 --> 00:24:08.359 But by every. 00:24:08.640 --> 00:24:09.120 Word. 00:24:09.359 --> 00:24:10.039 That proceeds. 00:24:10.240 --> 00:24:11.120 From the mouth. 00:24:11.120 --> 00:24:11.880 Of God. 00:24:12.819 --> 00:24:13.380 Jesus. 00:24:13.380 --> 00:24:14.480 In the temptation. 00:24:14.480 --> 00:24:15.740 Was a listener. 00:24:16.059 --> 00:24:16.559 To God. 00:24:17.299 --> 00:24:18.740 And because he stood. 00:24:18.880 --> 00:24:19.799 In that temptation. 00:24:20.460 --> 00:24:21.579 God also gave him. 00:24:21.660 --> 00:24:22.400 Bread to eat. 00:24:23.539 --> 00:24:24.680 And then the second. 00:24:25.079 --> 00:24:25.960 Temptation comes. 00:24:26.339 --> 00:24:26.799 And the devil. 00:24:26.940 --> 00:24:27.400 Wants him. 00:24:27.519 --> 00:24:28.339 To throw himself. 00:24:28.460 --> 00:24:29.440 Down from the temple. 00:24:30.019 --> 00:24:30.539 And the devil. 00:24:30.539 --> 00:24:31.599 Quotes the scripture. 00:24:31.839 --> 00:24:32.279 And says. 00:24:32.779 --> 00:24:33.799 He'll give his angels. 00:24:33.960 --> 00:24:34.759 Charge over you. 00:24:34.880 --> 00:24:35.980 Lest you dash your foot. 00:24:36.019 --> 00:24:36.819 Against the rock. 00:24:38.039 --> 00:24:39.000 And how does. 00:24:39.079 --> 00:24:40.039 Jesus respond. 00:24:40.039 --> 00:24:41.980 He responds. 00:24:41.980 --> 00:24:43.200 By quoting the scripture. 00:24:43.500 --> 00:24:43.960 And saying. 00:24:44.599 --> 00:24:45.759 Do not put the Lord. 00:24:45.859 --> 00:24:46.359 Your God. 00:24:46.460 --> 00:24:47.159 To the test. 00:24:48.680 --> 00:24:49.599 It's a reference. 00:24:49.599 --> 00:24:50.599 To that incident. 00:24:50.920 --> 00:24:51.920 That the Old Testament. 00:24:51.920 --> 00:24:53.200 Scriptures refer to. 00:24:53.299 --> 00:24:54.019 Again and again. 00:24:54.379 --> 00:24:54.899 Isn't it? 00:24:55.319 --> 00:24:56.759 Israel at Rephidim. 00:24:57.500 --> 00:24:58.539 Exodus 17. 00:24:59.319 --> 00:25:00.220 Referred to here. 00:25:00.279 --> 00:25:00.980 In our text. 00:25:01.099 --> 00:25:01.940 In Psalm 81. 00:25:02.500 --> 00:25:03.139 Verse 7. 00:25:04.079 --> 00:25:05.099 Where Israel. 00:25:05.099 --> 00:25:05.980 Grumbled. 00:25:05.980 --> 00:25:07.059 Against God. 00:25:07.059 --> 00:25:08.679 Where Israel. 00:25:08.839 --> 00:25:09.299 Doubted. 00:25:09.379 --> 00:25:10.240 God's presence. 00:25:10.879 --> 00:25:11.219 Doubted. 00:25:11.279 --> 00:25:12.039 God's provision. 00:25:12.039 --> 00:25:12.799 Of water. 00:25:13.179 --> 00:25:14.339 To quench their thirst. 00:25:14.779 --> 00:25:15.819 When he brought them up. 00:25:15.939 --> 00:25:16.619 Out of Egypt. 00:25:17.339 --> 00:25:17.980 That place. 00:25:18.099 --> 00:25:18.819 Finally called. 00:25:18.919 --> 00:25:19.319 Massa. 00:25:19.439 --> 00:25:19.919 And Meribah. 00:25:20.339 --> 00:25:20.939 The place of. 00:25:21.139 --> 00:25:21.719 Complaining. 00:25:21.919 --> 00:25:22.799 Against God. 00:25:23.480 --> 00:25:24.599 But Israel. 00:25:24.599 --> 00:25:25.539 Who had seen. 00:25:25.599 --> 00:25:26.319 God's power. 00:25:26.319 --> 00:25:27.379 Over the Red Sea. 00:25:27.939 --> 00:25:28.339 Israel. 00:25:28.500 --> 00:25:29.259 Who had seen. 00:25:29.339 --> 00:25:30.099 God's power. 00:25:30.219 --> 00:25:30.980 Turning the Nile. 00:25:31.039 --> 00:25:31.559 To blood. 00:25:32.019 --> 00:25:33.139 Israel was stupid. 00:25:33.139 --> 00:25:33.799 To think. 00:25:33.919 --> 00:25:34.440 That God. 00:25:34.720 --> 00:25:35.279 Didn't think. 00:25:35.379 --> 00:25:36.240 Far enough ahead. 00:25:36.519 --> 00:25:37.179 To realize. 00:25:37.299 --> 00:25:37.819 His people. 00:25:38.000 --> 00:25:38.279 Would need. 00:25:38.419 --> 00:25:39.299 Water in the desert. 00:25:41.819 --> 00:25:43.259 Israel was thirsty. 00:25:43.440 --> 00:25:44.059 In the wilderness. 00:25:44.399 --> 00:25:45.019 And complained. 00:25:45.159 --> 00:25:45.940 Against God. 00:25:47.379 --> 00:25:47.940 Jesus. 00:25:48.200 --> 00:25:49.179 Was thirsty. 00:25:49.339 --> 00:25:49.940 In the wilderness. 00:25:50.440 --> 00:25:51.200 But he said. 00:25:51.200 --> 00:25:52.220 I will not. 00:25:52.339 --> 00:25:52.819 Put the Lord. 00:25:52.919 --> 00:25:53.359 My God. 00:25:53.460 --> 00:25:54.059 To the test. 00:25:54.639 --> 00:25:55.759 I trust God. 00:25:55.879 --> 00:25:56.899 I listen to God. 00:25:57.000 --> 00:25:58.519 I rely upon God. 00:25:59.039 --> 00:25:59.379 And so. 00:25:59.500 --> 00:26:00.419 God gave Jesus. 00:26:00.599 --> 00:26:01.240 What he needed. 00:26:01.240 --> 00:26:01.859 To drink. 00:26:02.259 --> 00:26:03.019 Having withstood. 00:26:03.160 --> 00:26:03.599 The test. 00:26:05.519 --> 00:26:06.720 And this psalm. 00:26:06.839 --> 00:26:07.339 Interestingly. 00:26:07.599 --> 00:26:08.500 Promises us. 00:26:08.700 --> 00:26:09.059 Something. 00:26:09.059 --> 00:26:09.940 From the rock. 00:26:10.079 --> 00:26:10.279 Too. 00:26:10.420 --> 00:26:11.339 Not just water. 00:26:11.460 --> 00:26:11.980 But honey. 00:26:12.599 --> 00:26:13.380 Something better. 00:26:13.579 --> 00:26:14.839 Something more glorious. 00:26:15.519 --> 00:26:17.079 He will satisfy you. 00:26:17.140 --> 00:26:17.980 Is the promise. 00:26:17.980 --> 00:26:18.740 In our Lord. 00:26:18.839 --> 00:26:19.640 Jesus Christ. 00:26:19.980 --> 00:26:21.279 Because Jesus Christ. 00:26:21.779 --> 00:26:22.319 Always. 00:26:22.740 --> 00:26:23.059 Listen. 00:26:24.920 --> 00:26:25.920 And in the third. 00:26:26.259 --> 00:26:26.640 Temptation. 00:26:26.720 --> 00:26:27.480 The devil said. 00:26:28.180 --> 00:26:28.779 Bow down. 00:26:28.920 --> 00:26:29.660 And worship me. 00:26:29.799 --> 00:26:30.579 And I will give you. 00:26:30.579 --> 00:26:31.419 All the kingdoms. 00:26:31.419 --> 00:26:31.439 All the kingdoms. 00:26:31.439 --> 00:26:32.139 Of the world. 00:26:33.519 --> 00:26:34.059 And Jesus. 00:26:34.220 --> 00:26:34.759 Once again. 00:26:34.759 --> 00:26:35.480 Quoted from. 00:26:35.599 --> 00:26:36.119 Deuteronomy. 00:26:36.279 --> 00:26:37.059 Chapter 6. 00:26:37.179 --> 00:26:37.619 And said. 00:26:38.439 --> 00:26:39.279 Worship the Lord. 00:26:39.339 --> 00:26:39.899 Your God. 00:26:40.000 --> 00:26:41.019 And serve him. 00:26:41.240 --> 00:26:41.579 Only. 00:26:42.859 --> 00:26:43.419 Jesus. 00:26:43.599 --> 00:26:43.939 Listen. 00:26:45.000 --> 00:26:45.379 Jesus. 00:26:45.379 --> 00:26:46.439 Was faithful. 00:26:47.119 --> 00:26:47.379 Jesus. 00:26:47.779 --> 00:26:48.240 Served. 00:26:48.359 --> 00:26:48.720 Only. 00:26:48.859 --> 00:26:49.500 His father. 00:26:49.899 --> 00:26:50.740 And his father. 00:26:50.960 --> 00:26:51.439 Gave him. 00:26:51.559 --> 00:26:52.019 The kingdoms. 00:26:52.179 --> 00:26:52.699 Of the world. 00:26:54.240 --> 00:26:55.220 That's the savior. 00:26:55.359 --> 00:26:56.240 You and I have. 00:26:56.240 --> 00:26:57.420 That's the savior. 00:26:57.420 --> 00:26:58.900 Who has listened for us. 00:26:59.279 --> 00:26:59.920 Perfectly. 00:27:00.039 --> 00:27:00.720 And completely. 00:27:01.200 --> 00:27:02.700 So that we don't have to be. 00:27:03.059 --> 00:27:04.620 Fearful of the father's wrath. 00:27:04.779 --> 00:27:05.380 Against us. 00:27:05.460 --> 00:27:07.279 Because Jesus has taken it all. 00:27:09.500 --> 00:27:10.299 Do you know that. 00:27:10.660 --> 00:27:12.019 Between new year's day. 00:27:12.460 --> 00:27:13.960 And the feast of tabernacles. 00:27:14.220 --> 00:27:15.539 In the Israelite calendar. 00:27:16.000 --> 00:27:17.819 There was another important feast. 00:27:18.819 --> 00:27:20.500 On the first day of the month. 00:27:20.700 --> 00:27:22.740 Was the new year's celebration. 00:27:22.740 --> 00:27:24.799 On the 15th day of the month. 00:27:25.099 --> 00:27:27.420 Began the feast of tabernacles. 00:27:27.880 --> 00:27:28.400 Celebration. 00:27:28.940 --> 00:27:30.720 But on the 10th day of the month. 00:27:31.220 --> 00:27:32.599 Was the day of atonement. 00:27:33.660 --> 00:27:36.099 When God provided a substitute. 00:27:36.579 --> 00:27:38.539 For the sins of his people. 00:27:39.460 --> 00:27:41.779 When God was the strength. 00:27:42.039 --> 00:27:42.900 For his people. 00:27:44.120 --> 00:27:46.000 And Jesus Christ is our substitute. 00:27:46.480 --> 00:27:47.660 Is our strength. 00:27:47.880 --> 00:27:49.819 Is our sin bearer. 00:27:49.819 --> 00:27:53.059 Now that doesn't mean that. 00:27:53.279 --> 00:27:54.460 Because Jesus listened. 00:27:54.579 --> 00:27:55.679 We don't have to listen. 00:27:57.799 --> 00:27:59.240 Because Jesus listened. 00:27:59.359 --> 00:28:00.740 And he is our strength. 00:28:00.839 --> 00:28:01.980 And we are in him. 00:28:02.179 --> 00:28:03.819 We should desire to listen. 00:28:03.899 --> 00:28:04.720 Out of gratitude. 00:28:05.000 --> 00:28:05.799 And thanksgiving. 00:28:06.179 --> 00:28:08.000 We should yearn for the word of God. 00:28:08.059 --> 00:28:09.879 To be more alive in our hearts. 00:28:10.679 --> 00:28:12.099 But as we listen. 00:28:12.639 --> 00:28:13.740 And as we confront. 00:28:13.740 --> 00:28:15.460 Our own dullness of hearing. 00:28:16.059 --> 00:28:17.259 And our own sinfulness. 00:28:17.259 --> 00:28:19.980 We can rejoice in the fact. 00:28:20.460 --> 00:28:21.839 That the imperfections. 00:28:22.039 --> 00:28:22.819 Of our listening. 00:28:23.359 --> 00:28:23.960 Are covered. 00:28:24.500 --> 00:28:25.299 By the perfection. 00:28:25.799 --> 00:28:26.819 Of Christ's listening. 00:28:28.720 --> 00:28:30.140 As we read this psalm. 00:28:30.240 --> 00:28:32.000 We should long to do God's will. 00:28:32.140 --> 00:28:33.980 Should be eager to serve the Lord. 00:28:34.319 --> 00:28:35.740 According to his word. 00:28:36.079 --> 00:28:37.420 We should spend our time. 00:28:37.640 --> 00:28:38.279 And energy. 00:28:38.460 --> 00:28:39.259 To know that word. 00:28:39.379 --> 00:28:40.519 To hide it in our hearts. 00:28:40.619 --> 00:28:42.119 To treasure it in our lives. 00:28:42.879 --> 00:28:44.279 But as we struggle. 00:28:44.480 --> 00:28:45.640 To do that faithfully. 00:28:45.640 --> 00:28:47.100 We can rejoice. 00:28:47.100 --> 00:28:48.740 That we have a great king. 00:28:48.860 --> 00:28:50.600 Who listened perfectly. 00:28:51.380 --> 00:28:52.580 Who assures us. 00:28:52.620 --> 00:28:53.480 As his people. 00:28:53.880 --> 00:28:55.220 That we will not be numbered. 00:28:55.340 --> 00:28:56.100 Amongst the wicked. 00:28:57.020 --> 00:28:58.380 But if we are in Christ. 00:28:58.740 --> 00:28:59.820 If we've known him. 00:28:59.940 --> 00:29:01.140 If we've trusted him. 00:29:01.259 --> 00:29:02.480 And relied upon him. 00:29:02.800 --> 00:29:03.580 We will know. 00:29:03.780 --> 00:29:04.780 That he has listened. 00:29:05.220 --> 00:29:05.820 Perfectly. 00:29:06.780 --> 00:29:08.320 That he was the lamb of God. 00:29:08.400 --> 00:29:10.160 Who took away the sins of the world. 00:29:10.759 --> 00:29:11.759 And that in him. 00:29:12.240 --> 00:29:13.060 We have life. 00:29:13.380 --> 00:29:14.240 And we have hope. 00:29:14.240 --> 00:29:18.200 Are you in need. 00:29:18.700 --> 00:29:19.620 Of encouragement. 00:29:20.620 --> 00:29:21.559 Are you discouraged. 00:29:21.559 --> 00:29:23.380 By the difficulty you face. 00:29:23.700 --> 00:29:24.559 In our culture. 00:29:24.940 --> 00:29:26.259 To hear the word of God. 00:29:27.420 --> 00:29:28.680 Are you tired. 00:29:28.839 --> 00:29:30.140 From the constant struggle. 00:29:30.400 --> 00:29:31.259 Against the world. 00:29:31.400 --> 00:29:31.960 And the flesh. 00:29:32.319 --> 00:29:32.900 And the devil. 00:29:33.620 --> 00:29:34.500 Are you in need. 00:29:34.579 --> 00:29:35.400 Of refreshment. 00:29:35.500 --> 00:29:36.299 For your soul. 00:29:37.440 --> 00:29:38.980 Oh if my people would. 00:29:39.160 --> 00:29:39.839 But listen. 00:29:40.160 --> 00:29:40.900 Says the Lord. 00:29:40.900 --> 00:29:43.400 Jesus listened. 00:29:44.300 --> 00:29:44.860 And therefore. 00:29:44.860 --> 00:29:46.019 He earned the right. 00:29:46.019 --> 00:29:46.920 To say to you. 00:29:47.280 --> 00:29:48.080 Come to me. 00:29:48.140 --> 00:29:48.600 All you. 00:29:48.759 --> 00:29:49.480 Who are thirsty. 00:29:50.019 --> 00:29:50.640 Come to me. 00:29:50.700 --> 00:29:51.140 All you. 00:29:51.280 --> 00:29:51.940 Who are hungry. 00:29:52.720 --> 00:29:53.660 Open your mouth. 00:29:53.840 --> 00:29:54.259 Wide. 00:29:54.680 --> 00:29:55.880 And I will fill it. 00:29:56.640 --> 00:29:58.000 I will feed you. 00:29:58.000 --> 00:29:59.420 With the finest of wheat. 00:29:59.420 --> 00:30:00.620 And with honey. 00:30:01.019 --> 00:30:01.780 From the rock. 00:30:02.120 --> 00:30:03.600 I will satisfy you. 00:30:03.599 --> 00:30:07.599 May that be the experience. 00:30:07.599 --> 00:30:08.759 Of every one of us. 00:30:08.839 --> 00:30:09.480 Here tonight. 00:30:10.439 --> 00:30:11.659 That we would find. 00:30:11.799 --> 00:30:12.659 Our satisfaction. 00:30:13.079 --> 00:30:13.599 In Christ. 00:30:15.299 --> 00:30:15.779 Amen. 00:30:16.259 --> 00:30:16.939 Let us pray. 00:30:21.419 --> 00:30:22.199 Oh Lord. 00:30:22.259 --> 00:30:22.719 Our God. 00:30:22.799 --> 00:30:23.219 How we do. 00:30:23.339 --> 00:30:23.740 Thank you. 00:30:23.839 --> 00:30:24.579 For your word. 00:30:24.919 --> 00:30:26.199 In which you have revealed. 00:30:26.339 --> 00:30:27.179 Your holy will. 00:30:27.859 --> 00:30:28.619 That will. 00:30:28.699 --> 00:30:29.819 Which is good for us. 00:30:30.019 --> 00:30:30.740 And directs us. 00:30:30.819 --> 00:30:31.939 In the paths of life. 00:30:31.940 --> 00:30:33.320 That word. 00:30:33.320 --> 00:30:34.460 Which calls us away. 00:30:34.460 --> 00:30:35.200 From the company. 00:30:35.200 --> 00:30:35.820 Of the wicked. 00:30:36.420 --> 00:30:37.320 And the mockers. 00:30:37.640 --> 00:30:38.420 And the scoffers. 00:30:39.019 --> 00:30:39.980 And calls us to be. 00:30:40.200 --> 00:30:41.100 Those blessed ones. 00:30:41.100 --> 00:30:42.460 Who walk in your way. 00:30:43.960 --> 00:30:45.220 But we do confess. 00:30:45.220 --> 00:30:45.820 Before you. 00:30:45.900 --> 00:30:46.299 Oh Lord. 00:30:46.380 --> 00:30:47.200 That we are often. 00:30:47.299 --> 00:30:48.320 Those who are dull. 00:30:48.500 --> 00:30:48.860 Of here. 00:30:49.980 --> 00:30:51.320 That we are inclined. 00:30:51.320 --> 00:30:52.360 To the foolishness. 00:30:52.360 --> 00:30:53.460 Of our own ways. 00:30:54.500 --> 00:30:55.360 So we do. 00:30:55.480 --> 00:30:56.480 Thank and praise you. 00:30:56.720 --> 00:30:57.840 That you have provided. 00:30:57.840 --> 00:30:58.320 For us. 00:30:58.380 --> 00:30:59.000 In our need. 00:30:59.100 --> 00:30:59.980 A great king. 00:31:00.320 --> 00:31:01.380 A mighty savior. 00:31:01.380 --> 00:31:02.940 One who is strong. 00:31:02.940 --> 00:31:03.680 Over sin. 00:31:04.080 --> 00:31:05.240 One who is strong. 00:31:05.240 --> 00:31:06.000 Over the devil. 00:31:06.460 --> 00:31:07.740 One who is strong. 00:31:07.740 --> 00:31:08.700 In his listening. 00:31:09.040 --> 00:31:10.200 And in his obedience. 00:31:11.580 --> 00:31:12.720 We do thank you. 00:31:12.780 --> 00:31:13.660 For Jesus Christ. 00:31:13.660 --> 00:31:14.200 The righteous. 00:31:14.900 --> 00:31:16.100 For Jesus Christ. 00:31:16.600 --> 00:31:17.500 Our strength. 00:31:18.660 --> 00:31:19.600 And we pray. 00:31:19.600 --> 00:31:20.720 That we would be a people. 00:31:20.900 --> 00:31:22.320 Who grow in a love. 00:31:22.520 --> 00:31:23.140 For your word. 00:31:23.480 --> 00:31:24.320 But even more. 00:31:24.580 --> 00:31:25.700 That we would be a people. 00:31:25.700 --> 00:31:26.940 Who grow in dependence. 00:31:26.940 --> 00:31:27.920 Upon Jesus. 00:31:28.720 --> 00:31:29.840 In faith in him. 00:31:29.839 --> 00:31:31.459 In love for him. 00:31:32.240 --> 00:31:33.579 And it is in his name. 00:31:33.699 --> 00:31:34.240 That we pray. 00:31:35.119 --> 00:31:35.500 Amen.