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Psalms 127:1
Verse
Context
Sermons
Charles Price
John Piper
Jack David Daniels
Denny Kenaston
Joe FochtSummary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The poet proves that everything depends upon the blessing of God from examples taken from the God-ordained life of the family and of the state. The rearing of the house which affords us protection, and the stability of the city in which we securely and peaceably dwell, the acquisition of possessions that maintain and adorn life, the begetting and rearing of sons that may contribute substantial support to the father as he grows old - all these are things which depend upon the blessing of God without natural preliminary conditions being able to guarantee them, well-devised arrangements to ensure them, unwearied labours to obtain them by force, or impatient care and murmuring to get them by defiance. Many a man builds himself a house, but he is not able to carry out the building of it, or he dies before he is able to take possession of it, or the building fails through unforeseen misfortunes, or, if it succeeds, becomes a prey to violent destruction: if God Himself do not build it, they labour thereon (עמל בּ, Jon 4:10; Ecc 2:21) in vain who build it. Many a city is well-ordered, and seems to be secured by wise precautions against every misfortune, against fire and sudden attack; but if God Himself do not guard it, it is in vain that those to whom its protection is entrusted give themselves no sleep and perform (שׁקד, a word that has only come into frequent use since the literature of the Salomonic age) the duties of their office with the utmost devotion. The perfect in the apodosis affirms what has been done on the part of man to be ineffectual if the former is not done on God's part; cf. Num 32:23. Many rise up early in order to get to their work, and delay the sitting down as along as possible; i.e., not: the lying down (Hupfeld), for that is שׁכב, not ישׁב; but to take a seat in order to rest a little, and, as what follows shows, to eat (Hitzig). קוּם and שׁבת stand opposed to one another: the latter cannot therefore mean to remain sitting at one's work, in favour of which Isa 5:11 (where בּבּקר and בּנּשׁף form an antithesis) cannot be properly compared. Sa1 20:24 shows that prior to the incursion of the Grecian custom they did not take their meals lying or reclining (ἀνα- or κατακείμενος), but sitting. It is vain for you - the poet exclaims to them - it will not after all bring hat you think to be able to acquire; in so doing you eat only the bread of sorrow, i.e., bread that is procured with toil and trouble (cf. Gen 3:17, בּעצּבון): כּן, in like manner, i.e., the same as you are able to procure only by toilsome and anxious efforts, God gives to His beloved (Psa 60:7; Deu 33:12) שׁנא (= שׁנה), in sleep (an adverbial accusative like לילה בּּקר, ערב), i.e., without restless self-activity, in a state of self-forgetful renunciation, and modest, calm surrender to Him: "God bestows His gifts during the night," says a German proverb, and a Greek proverb even says: εὕδοντι κύρτος αἱρεῖ. Bttcher takes כּן in the sense of "so = without anything further;" and כן certainly has this meaning sometimes (vid., introduction to Psa 110:1-7), but not in this passage, where, as referring back, it stands at the head of the clause, and where what this mimic כן would import lies in the word שׁנא.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it,.... Whether it be understood literally of an artificial house, as Solomon's own house; or the house of the Lord, or any other: let a man be ever so bent upon building one, or have ever so much skill in drawing the plan of it, or be ever so well provided to go through the expense of it, or have ever so many hands employed in it, yet, if the Lord does not give success, it will all be in vain; the building will fall down, or be consumed by fire before it is finished; or by one providence or another he will be obliged to desist from it, as in the case of the builders of the tower and city of Babel. Or whether it be understood of a family, which is built up by an increase and multiplication of children; so Leah and Rachel built up the house of Israel, Rut 4:11; this depends upon the providence of God; for, as it is after said, "children are an heritage of the Lord", Psa 127:3. Or whether it be understood, figuratively and mystically, of the church God, the house of the living God; the house of Christ, a spiritual one; a Gospel church, whose materials are lively stones, or true believers. Now there are builders in this house, some indeed very bad ones; and it is no wonder that they labour in vain, who reject and lay aside the foundation and corner stone, Christ; who deny his deity, despise his righteousness; or mix grace and works, law and Gospel, together, and pluck down with one hand what they build with another: and though there are others that are good ones, and lay the foundation, Christ; and build on this foundation precious truths, comparable to gold, silver, and precious stones; minister the word, and administer the ordinances, truly and faithfully; and in all direct to Christ for grace, strength, peace, comfort, and eternal life; speak to edification, and are the means of reviving the graces of God's people, and of establishing their souls; as well as of the conversion of sinners, whereby the house of God is built up; yet if the Lord does not prosper their work, all is in vain. For the principal builder is God, Father, Son, and Spirit; this is mostly applied to the second Person, the Word and Wisdom of God, Pro 9:1; but not to the exclusion of the Father, who has laid in Zion a foundation, a precious corner stone, and builds souls on it; nor of the Spirit, through whom saints are built up an habitation for God, Isa 28:16. The Targum here is, "if the Word of the Lord does not build the city.'' It follows, except the Lord keep the city; the city Jerusalem, as the Targum; who also here makes mention of the Word of the Lord: or any other city: God, with the Heathens (t) was called the keeper of cities; this title is given to Minerva by Pindar (u), and is one of Jupiter's titles (w); the watchman waketh but in vain; to preserve it from riots, robberies, fires, &c. This may be applied to the church of God, the city of the living God, of which saints are fellow citizens: now in this city there are watchmen, some indeed that are blind and asleep, and so quite unfit for this office; but there are others who are awake and diligent, and watch in all things; and for the souls of men, and the good of the city, the church, to prevent heresies, errors, and immoralities; and yet all their watchfulness is in vain, unless the Lord keep it, who watches over his people for good, and that none hurt them; he wakeful, never slumbers nor sleeps, and constant night and day; and keeps his people by his power, and as tenderly as the apple of his eye. (t) Aristotel. de Mundo, c. 7. Apuleius de Mundo, prope finem. Phurnutus de Natura Deor. c. 9. (u) Olympiad. Ode 5. (w) Pausaniae Attica, sive l. 1. p. 43, 53. Vid Theoph. ad Autolye. l. 1. p. 76.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We are here taught to have a continual regard to the divine Providence in all the concerns of this life. Solomon was cried up for a wise man, and would be apt to lean to his own understanding and forecast, and therefore his father teaches him to look higher, and to take God along with him in his undertakings. He was to be a man of business, and therefore David instructed him how to manage his business under the direction of his religion. Parents, in teaching their children, should suit their exhortations to their condition and occasions. We must have an eye to God, I. In all the affairs and business of the family, even of the royal family, for kings' houses are no longer safe than while God protects them. We must depend upon God's blessing and not our own contrivance, 1. For the raising of a family: Except the Lord build the house, by his providence and blessing, those labour in vain, though ever so ingenious, that build it. We may understand it of the material house: except the Lord bless the building it is to no purpose for men to build, any more than for the builders of Babel, who attempted in defiance of heaven, or Hiel, who built Jericho under a curse. If the model and design be laid in pride and vanity, or if the foundations be laid in oppression and injustice (Hab 2:11, Hab 2:12), God certainly does not build there; nay, if God be not acknowledged, we have no reason to expect his blessing, and without his blessing all is nothing. Or, rather, it is to be understood of the making of a family considerable that was mean; men labour to do this by advantageous matches, offices, employments, purchases; but all in vain, unless God build up the family, and raise the poor out of the dust. The best-laid project fails unless God crown it with success. See Mal 1:4. 2. For the securing of a family or a city (for this is what the psalmist particularly mentions): if the guards of the city cannot secure it without God, much less can the good man of the house save his house from being broken up. Except the Lord keep the city from fire, from enemies, the watchmen, who go about the city, or patrol upon the walls of it, though they neither slumber nor sleep, wake but in vain, for a raging fire may break out, the mischief of which the timeliest discoveries may not be able to prevent. The guards may be slain, or the city betrayed and lost, by a thousand accidents, which the most watchful sentinel or most cautious governor could not obviate. 3. For the enriching of a family; this is a work of time and thought, but cannot be effected without the favour of Providence any more than that which is the product of one happy turn: "It is vain for you to rise up early and sit up late, and so to deny yourselves your bodily refreshments, in the eager pursuit of the wealth of the world." Usually, those that rise early do not care for sitting up late, nor can those that sit up late easily persuade themselves to rise early; but there are some so hot upon the world that they will do both, will rob their sleep to pay their cares. And they have as little comfort in their meals as in their rest; they eat the bread of sorrows. It is part of our sentence that we eat our bread in the sweat of our face; but those go further: all their days they eat in darkness, Ecc 5:17. They are continually fell of care, which embitters their comforts, and makes their lives a burden to them. All this is to get money, and all in vain except God prosper them, for riches are not always to men of understanding, Ecc 9:11. Those that love God, and are beloved of him, have their minds easy and live very comfortably without this ado. Solomon was called Jedidiah - Beloved of the Lord (Sa2 12:25); to him the kingdom was promised, and then it was in vain for Absalom to rise up early, to wheedle the people, and for Adonijah to make such a stir, and to say, I will be king. Solomon sits still, and, being beloved of the Lord, to him he gives sleep and the kingdom too. Note, (1.) Inordinate excessive care about the things of this world is a vain a d fruitless thing. We weary ourselves for vanity if we have it, and often weary ourselves in vain for it, Hag 1:6, Hag 1:9. (2.) Bodily sleep is God's gift to his beloved. We owe it to his goodness that our sleep is safe (Psa 4:8), that it is sweet, Jer 31:25, Jer 31:26. God gives us sleep as he gives it to his beloved when with it he gives us grace to lie down in his fear (our souls returning to him and reposing in him as our rest), and when we awake to be still with him and to use the refreshment we have by sleep in his service. He gives his beloved sleep, that is, quietness and contentment of mind, and comfortable enjoyment of what is present and a comfortable expectation of what is to come. Our care must be to keep ourselves in the love of God, and then we may be easy whether we have little or much of this world. II. In the increase of the family. He shows, 1. That children are God's gift, Psa 127:3. If children are withheld it is God that withholds them (Gen 30:2); if they are given, it is God that gives them (Gen 33:5); and they are to us what he makes them, comforts or crosses. Solomon multiplied wives, contrary to the law, but we never read of more than one son that he had; for those that desire children as a heritage from the Lord must receive them in the way that he is pleased to give them, by lawful marriage to one wife. Mal 2:15, therefore one, that he might seek a seed of God. But they shall commit whoredom and shall not increase. Children are a heritage, and a reward, and are so to be accounted, blessings and not burdens; for he that sends mouths will send meat if we trust in him. Obed-edom had eight sons, for the Lord blessed him because he had entertained the ark, Ch1 26:5. Children are a heritage for the Lord, as well as from him; they are my children (says God) which thou hast borne unto me (Eze 16:20); and they are most our honour and comfort when they are accounted to him for a generation. 2. That they are a good gift, and a great support and defence to a family: As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man, who knows how to use them for his own safety and advantage, so are children of the youth, that is, children born to their parents when they are young, which are the strongest and most healthful children, and are grown up to serve them by the time they need their service; or, rather, children who are themselves young; they are instruments of much good to their parents and families, which may fortify themselves with them against their enemies. The family that has a large stock of children is like a quiver full of arrows, of different sizes we may suppose, but all of use one time or other; children of different capacities and inclinations may be several ways serviceable to the family. He that has a numerous issue may boldly speak with his enemy in the gate in judgment; in battle he needs not fear, having so many good seconds, so zealous, so faithful, and in the vigour of youth, Sa1 2:4, Sa1 2:5. Observe here, Children of the youth are arrows in the hand, which, with prudence, may be directed aright to the mark, God's glory and the service of their generation; but afterwards, when they have gone abroad into the world, they are arrows out of the hand; it is too late to bend them then. But these arrows in the hand too often prove arrows in the heart, a constant grief to their godly parents, whose gray hairs they bring with sorrow to the grave.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Ps 127 Blessing and protection come from God. Without his presence, there is no success (127:1-2). This is particularly true for children, who are God’s gift (127:3-5). 127:1-2 Unless: These conditional sentences emphasize the positive idea that the Lord will protect the city (cp. 124:1-2). • Human effort is futile unless the Lord blesses it (see 44:3). • from early morning until late at night: This depicts an aggressive and competitive lifestyle. • God’s loved ones enjoy a quiet night’s sleep (3:5; 4:8).
Psalms 127:1
Children Are a Heritage from the LORD
1Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain. 2In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for bread to eat— for He gives sleep to His beloved.
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(Godly Home) Part 18 - Three Mysterious Influences in the Home
By Denny Kenaston3.8K41:35Godly Home SeriesDEU 6:6PSA 1:2PSA 112:1PSA 127:1PRO 22:6MAT 6:33EPH 6:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living in vital reality with God in a home. He uses the analogy of a willow tree planted by a watercourse to illustrate the abundant growth and prosperity that comes from being connected to God. The speaker shares a story of a young boy who, through the prayers of his devoted mother, experiences a powerful conversion and becomes a testimony for God. The speaker also addresses the question of how to encourage children to engage in spiritual disciplines like fasting and prayer, emphasizing the importance of making it a voluntary choice rather than imposing laws.
No Formula for Revival
By Charles Price3.3K03:13PSA 127:1PRO 3:5MAT 6:33JHN 15:5JAS 4:8
This sermon addresses the tendency of the Church to rely on programs and formulas rather than seeking God's presence and guidance. It highlights the danger of trying to replicate past revivals without God's involvement, leading to a mere imitation of spiritual experiences. The message emphasizes the importance of not reducing God's work to a formula or manual but instead seeking a genuine relationship with Him.
Canadian Christian Heritage Under Fire #1 - Christian History of Canada
By Ian Goligher2.1K49:20GEN 1:1PSA 72:8PSA 127:1MAT 6:33JHN 1:1ACT 16:301CO 10:31In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for Christians to be awakened to the battle for the hearts and minds of Canadians. He highlights the importance of glorifying God and enjoying Him forever as the central agenda of Christianity. The preacher also shares the story of a man named Tilley who was deeply impacted by witnessing a tragic event and became involved in the temperance movement and politics. Despite his success in politics, Tilley voluntarily stepped down to continue his Christian mission work. The sermon concludes by highlighting the importance of following the example of individuals like Tilley who dedicated their lives to serving and ministering the gospel.
God Created Us for His Glory
By John Piper1.9K25:34PSA 127:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Psalm 127, specifically verses 1 and 2. The main point of the text is that unless the Lord is involved in our endeavors, our labor is in vain. The speaker emphasizes the importance of not engaging in anxious toil and instead trusting in God's provision. He shares a personal illustration of a time when he struggled with sleeplessness and found comfort in imagining Jesus calming the storm and assuring him of his care. The sermon concludes by highlighting the potential futility of our efforts if they are not aligned with God's plans.
Family
By Jack David Daniels1.9K1:26:34FamilyPSA 127:1EPH 5:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in our homes and families. He highlights the need for God's involvement in the building process, stating that without the Lord's guidance, our efforts will be in vain. The preacher also addresses the role of husbands in loving their wives sacrificially, drawing inspiration from Jesus' love for the church. He warns against the negative influences of society, Hollywood, and worldly entertainment, urging listeners to remove such influences from their homes. The sermon concludes with a reminder to flee from all appearances of evil, as stated in 1 Thessalonians 5:22.
The Old-Fashioned Christian Home
By Denny Kenaston1.9K1:18:45Christian HomeDEU 6:6PSA 127:1PSA 127:3PRO 22:6PRO 31:10ACT 16:25EPH 6:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of returning to the old-fashioned Christian values and practices in order to build strong and successful families. He highlights the fast-paced and instant nature of modern society, contrasting it with the slower and more intentional approach of the past. The preacher calls for fathers, mothers, and children to come together in prayer and unity, supporting and submitting to one another. He also emphasizes the need to teach children the value of hard work and the importance of the work ethic in order to avoid a materialistic and self-centered mindset. The preacher encourages a return to the old-fashioned order and values, emphasizing the need to prioritize spiritual growth and family unity.
(Genesis) Genesis 10-11
By Joe Focht1.8K1:01:22GenesisGEN 9:26GEN 11:5GEN 12:1PSA 127:1JHN 3:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of the Tower of Babel from the Bible. He highlights how the people of Babel were united in language and purpose, seeking to build a world empire and a new world order. However, God intervened and confused their language, scattering them across the earth. The speaker emphasizes that unless the Lord is involved in our endeavors, our efforts are in vain. He also draws parallels to the present day, urging listeners to seek God's guidance and not settle for less than His best.
That He Might Fill All Things - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K49:22Jesus ChristGEN 22:17GEN 32:282SA 7:8PSA 127:1MAT 6:33EPH 4:10HEB 11:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of emptying oneself and allowing God to work in their lives. He uses the example of Joseph, who started off as a conceited young man but went through a process of emptying and suffering in order to fulfill God's purpose. The speaker encourages listeners to learn from their own trials and adversities, allowing Christ to fill their lives. He also highlights the significance of Jesus filling all things, emphasizing the greatness of the Lord and the ultimate fulfillment of His purpose.
When Jesus Calls You
By Jack David Daniels1.6K55:21Following ChristJOS 24:15PSA 127:1MAT 6:33LUK 19:1LUK 19:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the personal call of Jesus to individuals. He uses the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector, as an example of someone who was called by Jesus and responded joyfully. The preacher encourages the congregation to rejoice when someone comes to faith in Jesus, regardless of their past sins or reputation. He also challenges the idea that one must clean up their life before coming to Jesus, emphasizing that salvation is a gift that transforms lives. The preacher concludes by urging the listeners to respond to Jesus' call and to trust in Him for salvation.
Recovery - Part 2 of 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K54:18Recovery1CH 29:28EZR 7:6EZR 7:9PSA 127:1MAT 7:13JHN 6:60REV 21:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being committed to God's purpose. He highlights the need for a specific and personal vision of God's plan in the present time. The speaker references the story of Nehemiah and how his heart committal to God's purpose brought God into evidence and led to the fulfillment of His plan. The sermon also emphasizes the sovereignty of God and how He takes the initiative to see His purpose through, even in the face of opposition.
Dependence on the Lord - Alternate 1
By K.P. Yohannan1.6K25:59Dependence2CH 16:9PSA 127:1PRO 16:5ISA 64:6MAT 6:331CO 3:13JAS 4:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of keeping our actions separate from our identity. He warns against using our positions or accomplishments to make ourselves feel important or special, as God is the one who truly exalts us. The speaker also highlights the significance of our motives and intentions, stating that God is more concerned with why we do things rather than just the external results. He shares a story about William Carey, a missionary whose printing press was destroyed, but who continued to serve the Lord with unwavering commitment and dependence on Him. The lesson is that our dependence should be on God, not on our own abilities or achievements.
Building a Godly Home (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.5K1:02:11PSA 127:1PRO 17:22PRO 22:6PRO 31:10EPH 5:25COL 3:13
This sermon emphasizes the importance of building strong, godly homes as the foundation for a healthy church. It highlights the need for husbands and wives to have a good relationship, appreciate each other, and encourage one another in faith. The speaker encourages parents to pray with their children, be honest about their mistakes, and create a joyful atmosphere in the home by sharing jokes and laughter.
How to Comment Spiritual Suicide
By Charlie Orr1.5K43:44Suicide1SA 31:3PSA 127:1MAT 6:33JHN 15:5JAS 4:6In this sermon, the preacher discusses the topic of spiritual suicide and how it can lead to physical suicide. He uses the story of Saul from the book of 1 Samuel as an example. Saul was a handsome and gifted man who was anointed to be king of Israel. However, he squandered this opportunity and took steps towards spiritual suicide. The preacher outlines ten steps that Saul took, starting with unrepentant sin.
(2 Samuel) a Tale of Two Houses
By David Guzik1.4K28:092SA 7:102SA 7:271CH 17:9PSA 37:4PSA 127:1MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of believers going above and beyond in their relationship with God. He encourages listeners to outdo one another in acts of love and service towards God. The speaker highlights the power of reminding God of His promises and boldly asking Him to fulfill them. He uses the example of David shaking God's promise before Him and urging Him to fulfill it. The speaker also warns against passivity in the Christian life and encourages believers to actively claim and pray for the promises of God.
Building - the Heavenly Pattern
By Stephen Kaung1.2K1:05:58PSA 127:1MAT 16:181CO 3:9HEB 8:5HEB 11:10HEB 11:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for humility before God and the importance of seeking more light from Him. He warns against the danger of becoming proud when we have some understanding of spiritual matters. The speaker uses the example of a blind man who initially saw people as trees, but with a second touch from the Lord, his vision was fully restored. The sermon also references Hebrews 8:5, which speaks of the representation and shadow of heavenly things, and Psalm 127, which highlights the importance of God's presence in our lives. Overall, the message encourages believers to continually seek God's guidance and to build their lives upon the foundation of Jesus Christ.
Ravi-Pride
By Compilations1.2K04:12CompilationsDEU 8:17PSA 127:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the changing nature of ministry and the mindset of today's ministers. He contrasts the dedication and sacrifice of historical figures like Henry Martin and C.T. Stud with the current focus on personal benefits and rewards. The speaker also highlights the danger of forgetting God's grace and becoming self-sufficient. He concludes by sharing the inspiring words of King George VI and a testimony of commitment from Charles Wesley.
Christian Missions to the Communist World International - Pt4
By Richard Wurmbrand1.1K1:04:52MissionsPSA 127:1PSA 127:3ISA 44:1ISA 44:3In this sermon, the preacher starts by asking for an extra 5 minutes to speak. He then describes a vision of radiant beings that will stand before people when they are judged by God. These beings are described as more beautiful than movie stars. The preacher emphasizes the importance of being like Jesus and being a Christian. He then reads from Isaiah 44, highlighting God's promise to pour out his spirit and blessings on those who are thirsty and in need. The sermon concludes with the preacher affirming his belief in Jesus and his identity as a believer.
07. Pictures of Promise in the Bible
By Denny Kenaston1.1K48:13PSA 127:1PSA 128:3PSA 144:1
This sermon delves into Psalms 144, exploring the unique combination of war and a burden for the home that David expressed in his writing. It emphasizes the importance of God's involvement in building a household, highlighting the need for God's presence and guidance in raising children. The sermon paints a vivid picture of nurturing children as 'olive plants' and building a strong, godly foundation for future generations.
God's Mercies - Part 3
By Joshua Daniel1.0K05:19PSA 115:1PSA 127:1PRO 3:5
This sermon emphasizes giving all glory to the Lord for the accomplishments and provisions in life, acknowledging that it is God who enables and provides for us. It highlights the humility in recognizing God's hand in all things, from the construction of buildings to the blessings in our lives, and the importance of maintaining a grateful heart and not being prideful. The speaker expresses a desire to see more of God's works and acknowledges the greatness and power of God in every aspect of our lives.
Don't Eat the Bread of Anxious Toil
By John Piper1.0K25:34PSA 127:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Psalm 127, specifically verses 1 and 2. The main point of the text is that unless the Lord is involved in our endeavors, our labor is in vain. The speaker emphasizes the importance of not engaging in anxious toil and instead trusting in God's provision. He shares a personal illustration of a time when he struggled with sleeplessness and found comfort in imagining Jesus calming the storm and assuring him of his care. The sermon concludes by highlighting the potential futility of our efforts if they are not aligned with God's plans.
Nehemiah 6 - Part 7
By Joshua Daniel98006:16PSA 25:4PSA 127:1PRO 19:21ISA 9:6ISA 44:5
This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking the stamp and work of God in our lives, rather than relying on human efforts or worldly counsel. It calls for surrendering to the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit and allowing the seal of the resurrected Savior to be upon us. The speaker acknowledges the need for divine guidance, the counsel of the Almighty, and the conquering power of God to overcome worldly temptations and build God's kingdom instead of our own.
Tracing Communism Through History - How Communism Operates (Reading)
By Richard Wurmbrand9051:08:48CommunismPSA 127:1HOS 4:6MAT 6:33ACT 4:34ACT 4:37EPH 6:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the horrors of communism and the need to fight against it. He emphasizes the importance of helping those who are enslaved by communism and calls for prayer for the work being done. The speaker also urges the audience to turn to Jesus Christ and accept Him as their Lord and Savior. He believes that with God's blessing and national repentance, the battle against communism can be won. The sermon also briefly mentions historical events related to communism, such as the Brotherhood of Peace in France and the influence of J.J. Rousseau. The speaker concludes by highlighting the need for knowledge and understanding in order to effectively combat communism.
God as the Constructor of the Church
By Stephen Kaung8971:14:06PSA 127:1MAT 6:33MAT 16:18EPH 5:27HEB 11:102PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man who stumbled upon a book in his brother's shop and discovered it was the book of Psalms. This encounter led the man to start reading the Bible and he was convicted of his sins. The speaker emphasizes that God tests us to reveal our true nature and bring us to a place of surrender. He also highlights the importance of being transformed by God's grace in order to be used as material for building the church. The sermon concludes with a reference to the crucifixion of Jesus and how his sacrifice provides forgiveness of sins and new life for believers.
Revival in the Book of Ezra - Part 5
By Roy Hession76054:48RevivalPSA 127:1ISA 61:4ZEC 4:6MAT 16:181CO 3:16EPH 2:221PE 2:5In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of the prophet Zachariah and the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. The speaker emphasizes the importance of the walls, which were still broken down and the gates burnt with fire. The speaker mentions that while the temple had been rebuilt, the walls remained in ruins. The sermon highlights the hope and faith of the Jews during their captivity in Babylon, as they waited for the prophesied 70 years to pass. The speaker also emphasizes the need for personal repentance and the rebuilding of our own spiritual temples.
The Delapitated House
By Jenny Daniel61041:55Godly HomePSA 127:1ECC 10:18EZK 3:27EZK 8:12MAT 5:16MAT 7:22LUK 15:10EPH 4:32In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the state of a house that was once a shining example of God's creative power. The house, which represents our testimony as believers, is described as dilapidated and neglected, a far cry from its former glory. The speaker emphasizes the importance of windows in a house, as they bring in light and expose what is inside. However, if the house is not properly maintained and repaired, cracks will appear and the testimony will be damaged. The sermon serves as a reminder to take care of our spiritual houses and protect our testimonies from neglect and decay.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The poet proves that everything depends upon the blessing of God from examples taken from the God-ordained life of the family and of the state. The rearing of the house which affords us protection, and the stability of the city in which we securely and peaceably dwell, the acquisition of possessions that maintain and adorn life, the begetting and rearing of sons that may contribute substantial support to the father as he grows old - all these are things which depend upon the blessing of God without natural preliminary conditions being able to guarantee them, well-devised arrangements to ensure them, unwearied labours to obtain them by force, or impatient care and murmuring to get them by defiance. Many a man builds himself a house, but he is not able to carry out the building of it, or he dies before he is able to take possession of it, or the building fails through unforeseen misfortunes, or, if it succeeds, becomes a prey to violent destruction: if God Himself do not build it, they labour thereon (עמל בּ, Jon 4:10; Ecc 2:21) in vain who build it. Many a city is well-ordered, and seems to be secured by wise precautions against every misfortune, against fire and sudden attack; but if God Himself do not guard it, it is in vain that those to whom its protection is entrusted give themselves no sleep and perform (שׁקד, a word that has only come into frequent use since the literature of the Salomonic age) the duties of their office with the utmost devotion. The perfect in the apodosis affirms what has been done on the part of man to be ineffectual if the former is not done on God's part; cf. Num 32:23. Many rise up early in order to get to their work, and delay the sitting down as along as possible; i.e., not: the lying down (Hupfeld), for that is שׁכב, not ישׁב; but to take a seat in order to rest a little, and, as what follows shows, to eat (Hitzig). קוּם and שׁבת stand opposed to one another: the latter cannot therefore mean to remain sitting at one's work, in favour of which Isa 5:11 (where בּבּקר and בּנּשׁף form an antithesis) cannot be properly compared. Sa1 20:24 shows that prior to the incursion of the Grecian custom they did not take their meals lying or reclining (ἀνα- or κατακείμενος), but sitting. It is vain for you - the poet exclaims to them - it will not after all bring hat you think to be able to acquire; in so doing you eat only the bread of sorrow, i.e., bread that is procured with toil and trouble (cf. Gen 3:17, בּעצּבון): כּן, in like manner, i.e., the same as you are able to procure only by toilsome and anxious efforts, God gives to His beloved (Psa 60:7; Deu 33:12) שׁנא (= שׁנה), in sleep (an adverbial accusative like לילה בּּקר, ערב), i.e., without restless self-activity, in a state of self-forgetful renunciation, and modest, calm surrender to Him: "God bestows His gifts during the night," says a German proverb, and a Greek proverb even says: εὕδοντι κύρτος αἱρεῖ. Bttcher takes כּן in the sense of "so = without anything further;" and כן certainly has this meaning sometimes (vid., introduction to Psa 110:1-7), but not in this passage, where, as referring back, it stands at the head of the clause, and where what this mimic כן would import lies in the word שׁנא.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it,.... Whether it be understood literally of an artificial house, as Solomon's own house; or the house of the Lord, or any other: let a man be ever so bent upon building one, or have ever so much skill in drawing the plan of it, or be ever so well provided to go through the expense of it, or have ever so many hands employed in it, yet, if the Lord does not give success, it will all be in vain; the building will fall down, or be consumed by fire before it is finished; or by one providence or another he will be obliged to desist from it, as in the case of the builders of the tower and city of Babel. Or whether it be understood of a family, which is built up by an increase and multiplication of children; so Leah and Rachel built up the house of Israel, Rut 4:11; this depends upon the providence of God; for, as it is after said, "children are an heritage of the Lord", Psa 127:3. Or whether it be understood, figuratively and mystically, of the church God, the house of the living God; the house of Christ, a spiritual one; a Gospel church, whose materials are lively stones, or true believers. Now there are builders in this house, some indeed very bad ones; and it is no wonder that they labour in vain, who reject and lay aside the foundation and corner stone, Christ; who deny his deity, despise his righteousness; or mix grace and works, law and Gospel, together, and pluck down with one hand what they build with another: and though there are others that are good ones, and lay the foundation, Christ; and build on this foundation precious truths, comparable to gold, silver, and precious stones; minister the word, and administer the ordinances, truly and faithfully; and in all direct to Christ for grace, strength, peace, comfort, and eternal life; speak to edification, and are the means of reviving the graces of God's people, and of establishing their souls; as well as of the conversion of sinners, whereby the house of God is built up; yet if the Lord does not prosper their work, all is in vain. For the principal builder is God, Father, Son, and Spirit; this is mostly applied to the second Person, the Word and Wisdom of God, Pro 9:1; but not to the exclusion of the Father, who has laid in Zion a foundation, a precious corner stone, and builds souls on it; nor of the Spirit, through whom saints are built up an habitation for God, Isa 28:16. The Targum here is, "if the Word of the Lord does not build the city.'' It follows, except the Lord keep the city; the city Jerusalem, as the Targum; who also here makes mention of the Word of the Lord: or any other city: God, with the Heathens (t) was called the keeper of cities; this title is given to Minerva by Pindar (u), and is one of Jupiter's titles (w); the watchman waketh but in vain; to preserve it from riots, robberies, fires, &c. This may be applied to the church of God, the city of the living God, of which saints are fellow citizens: now in this city there are watchmen, some indeed that are blind and asleep, and so quite unfit for this office; but there are others who are awake and diligent, and watch in all things; and for the souls of men, and the good of the city, the church, to prevent heresies, errors, and immoralities; and yet all their watchfulness is in vain, unless the Lord keep it, who watches over his people for good, and that none hurt them; he wakeful, never slumbers nor sleeps, and constant night and day; and keeps his people by his power, and as tenderly as the apple of his eye. (t) Aristotel. de Mundo, c. 7. Apuleius de Mundo, prope finem. Phurnutus de Natura Deor. c. 9. (u) Olympiad. Ode 5. (w) Pausaniae Attica, sive l. 1. p. 43, 53. Vid Theoph. ad Autolye. l. 1. p. 76.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We are here taught to have a continual regard to the divine Providence in all the concerns of this life. Solomon was cried up for a wise man, and would be apt to lean to his own understanding and forecast, and therefore his father teaches him to look higher, and to take God along with him in his undertakings. He was to be a man of business, and therefore David instructed him how to manage his business under the direction of his religion. Parents, in teaching their children, should suit their exhortations to their condition and occasions. We must have an eye to God, I. In all the affairs and business of the family, even of the royal family, for kings' houses are no longer safe than while God protects them. We must depend upon God's blessing and not our own contrivance, 1. For the raising of a family: Except the Lord build the house, by his providence and blessing, those labour in vain, though ever so ingenious, that build it. We may understand it of the material house: except the Lord bless the building it is to no purpose for men to build, any more than for the builders of Babel, who attempted in defiance of heaven, or Hiel, who built Jericho under a curse. If the model and design be laid in pride and vanity, or if the foundations be laid in oppression and injustice (Hab 2:11, Hab 2:12), God certainly does not build there; nay, if God be not acknowledged, we have no reason to expect his blessing, and without his blessing all is nothing. Or, rather, it is to be understood of the making of a family considerable that was mean; men labour to do this by advantageous matches, offices, employments, purchases; but all in vain, unless God build up the family, and raise the poor out of the dust. The best-laid project fails unless God crown it with success. See Mal 1:4. 2. For the securing of a family or a city (for this is what the psalmist particularly mentions): if the guards of the city cannot secure it without God, much less can the good man of the house save his house from being broken up. Except the Lord keep the city from fire, from enemies, the watchmen, who go about the city, or patrol upon the walls of it, though they neither slumber nor sleep, wake but in vain, for a raging fire may break out, the mischief of which the timeliest discoveries may not be able to prevent. The guards may be slain, or the city betrayed and lost, by a thousand accidents, which the most watchful sentinel or most cautious governor could not obviate. 3. For the enriching of a family; this is a work of time and thought, but cannot be effected without the favour of Providence any more than that which is the product of one happy turn: "It is vain for you to rise up early and sit up late, and so to deny yourselves your bodily refreshments, in the eager pursuit of the wealth of the world." Usually, those that rise early do not care for sitting up late, nor can those that sit up late easily persuade themselves to rise early; but there are some so hot upon the world that they will do both, will rob their sleep to pay their cares. And they have as little comfort in their meals as in their rest; they eat the bread of sorrows. It is part of our sentence that we eat our bread in the sweat of our face; but those go further: all their days they eat in darkness, Ecc 5:17. They are continually fell of care, which embitters their comforts, and makes their lives a burden to them. All this is to get money, and all in vain except God prosper them, for riches are not always to men of understanding, Ecc 9:11. Those that love God, and are beloved of him, have their minds easy and live very comfortably without this ado. Solomon was called Jedidiah - Beloved of the Lord (Sa2 12:25); to him the kingdom was promised, and then it was in vain for Absalom to rise up early, to wheedle the people, and for Adonijah to make such a stir, and to say, I will be king. Solomon sits still, and, being beloved of the Lord, to him he gives sleep and the kingdom too. Note, (1.) Inordinate excessive care about the things of this world is a vain a d fruitless thing. We weary ourselves for vanity if we have it, and often weary ourselves in vain for it, Hag 1:6, Hag 1:9. (2.) Bodily sleep is God's gift to his beloved. We owe it to his goodness that our sleep is safe (Psa 4:8), that it is sweet, Jer 31:25, Jer 31:26. God gives us sleep as he gives it to his beloved when with it he gives us grace to lie down in his fear (our souls returning to him and reposing in him as our rest), and when we awake to be still with him and to use the refreshment we have by sleep in his service. He gives his beloved sleep, that is, quietness and contentment of mind, and comfortable enjoyment of what is present and a comfortable expectation of what is to come. Our care must be to keep ourselves in the love of God, and then we may be easy whether we have little or much of this world. II. In the increase of the family. He shows, 1. That children are God's gift, Psa 127:3. If children are withheld it is God that withholds them (Gen 30:2); if they are given, it is God that gives them (Gen 33:5); and they are to us what he makes them, comforts or crosses. Solomon multiplied wives, contrary to the law, but we never read of more than one son that he had; for those that desire children as a heritage from the Lord must receive them in the way that he is pleased to give them, by lawful marriage to one wife. Mal 2:15, therefore one, that he might seek a seed of God. But they shall commit whoredom and shall not increase. Children are a heritage, and a reward, and are so to be accounted, blessings and not burdens; for he that sends mouths will send meat if we trust in him. Obed-edom had eight sons, for the Lord blessed him because he had entertained the ark, Ch1 26:5. Children are a heritage for the Lord, as well as from him; they are my children (says God) which thou hast borne unto me (Eze 16:20); and they are most our honour and comfort when they are accounted to him for a generation. 2. That they are a good gift, and a great support and defence to a family: As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man, who knows how to use them for his own safety and advantage, so are children of the youth, that is, children born to their parents when they are young, which are the strongest and most healthful children, and are grown up to serve them by the time they need their service; or, rather, children who are themselves young; they are instruments of much good to their parents and families, which may fortify themselves with them against their enemies. The family that has a large stock of children is like a quiver full of arrows, of different sizes we may suppose, but all of use one time or other; children of different capacities and inclinations may be several ways serviceable to the family. He that has a numerous issue may boldly speak with his enemy in the gate in judgment; in battle he needs not fear, having so many good seconds, so zealous, so faithful, and in the vigour of youth, Sa1 2:4, Sa1 2:5. Observe here, Children of the youth are arrows in the hand, which, with prudence, may be directed aright to the mark, God's glory and the service of their generation; but afterwards, when they have gone abroad into the world, they are arrows out of the hand; it is too late to bend them then. But these arrows in the hand too often prove arrows in the heart, a constant grief to their godly parents, whose gray hairs they bring with sorrow to the grave.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Ps 127 Blessing and protection come from God. Without his presence, there is no success (127:1-2). This is particularly true for children, who are God’s gift (127:3-5). 127:1-2 Unless: These conditional sentences emphasize the positive idea that the Lord will protect the city (cp. 124:1-2). • Human effort is futile unless the Lord blesses it (see 44:3). • from early morning until late at night: This depicts an aggressive and competitive lifestyle. • God’s loved ones enjoy a quiet night’s sleep (3:5; 4:8).