Day 141 One Year Bible Read Along

1 Chronicles 13-15

Chapters 13 to 15 of 1 Chronicles focus on the efforts of King David to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.

In Chapter 13, David consults with his commanders, leaders, and the people to bring back the Ark, which represents God's presence and favor. As they transport the Ark on a new cart, Uzza, one of the drivers, reaches out to steady it when the oxen stumble, and he is struck dead by God. This incident reveals the sacredness of the Ark and the severe consequences of mishandling it.

Following Uzza's death, David, in Chapter 14, secures his kingdom, establishes his royal city, and receives God's blessing in the form of many children. David also inquires of God before going into battle and receives victories over the Philistines, highlighting his reliance on God's guidance.

In Chapter 15, after understanding the proper handling of the Ark from the Law of Moses, David organizes a grand procession to transport the Ark to Jerusalem. The Ark is carried by the Levites, as stipulated by the Law, and the event is marked by music, sacrifices, and jubilation, showcasing the reestablishment of correct worship and the importance of the Ark in Israel's religious life.

Key People/Places/Events: David, Uzza, the Ark of the Covenant, Jerusalem, the Levites, Philistines.

Questions to Consider:

1. Why is the Ark of the Covenant significant in Israel's religious life and history?
2. How does Uzza's death underscore the importance of respecting sacred objects and adhering to God's commandments?
3. How do David's actions in these chapters reflect his faith and dependence on God?
4. How does the correct transportation of the Ark to Jerusalem symbolize the reestablishment of proper worship in Israel?

John 7:1-27

In this passage from John's Gospel, Jesus goes to Jerusalem to attend the Feast of Tabernacles. Initially, he travels in secret because the Jewish leaders in Judea are seeking to kill him, but he later appears publicly in the temple to teach.

His brothers, who do not believe in him, mockingly suggest that he should go to Judea to show his disciples his works. However, Jesus responds by stating that his time has not yet come, showcasing his awareness of God's timing.

During the Feast, he starts teaching in the temple, astounding the crowds with his knowledge, given his lack of formal education. When questioned about his authority, Jesus says that his teaching is not his own but comes from the one who sent him.

The crowd is divided in their opinions about Jesus. Some think he is a good man; others believe he is leading people astray. When some in the crowd claim he cannot be the Messiah because they know where he comes from, Jesus responds by stating that while they may know him and where he comes from, they do not know the one who sent him.

Key People/Places/Events: Jesus, his brothers, the Jewish leaders, the crowd, the Feast of Tabernacles, Jerusalem.

Questions to Consider:

1. Why do you think Jesus's brothers reacted the way they did? What does this say about their understanding of Jesus?
2. What does Jesus's response to his brothers tell us about his understanding of his mission and God's timing?
3. How does the crowd's confusion about Jesus's identity reveal the various expectations of the Messiah in Jesus's time?
4. How does Jesus's teaching in the temple challenge the religious authority and understanding of his listeners?
5. How does the concept of divine origin and authority shape Jesus's teachings and actions in this passage?