Psalms 78:71 KJV

From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance.

Previous Verse
« Psalms 78:70
Next Verse
Psalms 78:72 »

Psalms 78:71 Bible Commentary

Psalms 78:71 - Commentary Summary

Verse: "From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance." (Psalms 78:71)

Contextual Overview

This verse is situated within a lengthy historical reflection on Israel's past, emphasizing God's providence and guidance throughout their journey. It specifically accounts for the selection of David as a leader from a humble background, setting the stage for a significant transition in Israel's history.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the lowly beginnings of David's appointment as king of Israel. David was chosen from the ordinary task of tending sheep, which Henry notes illustrates God's way of calling leaders from humble origins. The act of bringing David from the pastoral role to shepherd God's people signifies the divine selection, bestowing upon him a greater responsibility.

Henry draws attention to the metaphor of the "ewes great with young," indicating David's care and nurture, which parallels his future responsibilities as a king. This reflection leads to the understanding that God equips those He calls, as David's early life sowed the seeds of his leadership qualities.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes provides a detailed examination of the historical narrative behind this verse. He points out that David's earlier life in the fields prepared him not only with skills but also with deep compassion and understanding of the needs of the people he would later govern. Barnes notes that this passage reinforces the idea that God does not look on outward appearances but rather on the heart.

Moreover, Barnes highlights the significance of feeding "Jacob" and "Israel," representative terms that allude to God's covenant people. This dual naming underlines the importance of the identity of Israel in the grand scope of their destiny, with David serving not just as a king but as a nurturing shepherd who would lead them towards a deeper understanding of God's purposes.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides an insightful interpretation that centers on the nature of leadership and divine providence. Clarke asserts that God's choice of David from the humble position of shepherd emphasizes the divine principle that leadership arises from service. He reflects on the metaphor of sheep as not merely animals to be herded, but as a symbol of God’s people who need guidance and protection.

Additionally, Clarke discusses the implications of “to feed” both literally and spiritually. He connects the pastoral imagery to the responsibilities of spiritual leaders present in the Church, reminding readers that feeding can signify the teaching and nurturing role leaders have over their congregations, akin to shepherding the flock of God.

Theological Implications

The biblical passage demonstrates multiple layers of theological insights relevant for pastors, theologians, and students of the Bible:

  • Divine Sovereignty: God’s initiative in picking leaders reinforces His sovereignty in the lives of individuals and nations.
  • Humility and Call: The call of David from the sheepfold signifies that God often chooses the unlikely for greatness, highlighting humility as a precursor to divine purpose.
  • Identity and Responsibility: By referring to “Jacob” and “Israel,” the text speaks to the covenant relationship which demands responsibility from those in leadership to nourish their communities spiritually.
  • Model of Leadership: David’s journey from shepherd to king serves as a paradigm of servant leadership, establishing the importance of care and guidance in pastoral roles.

Practical Applications

The commentary on Psalms 78:71 provides several practical applications for contemporary ministry:

  • Recognizing God’s Call: Encourages individuals to consider their own backgrounds and how God might be preparing them for leadership roles.
  • Servant Leadership: Calls leaders to embrace a posture of servitude, reflecting the care that a shepherd has for his sheep.
  • Importance of Nurturing: Reminds leaders that they are to feed their communities with teaching, love, and guidance—ensuring that spiritual growth thrives.
  • Trust in God’s Plan: Inspires faith that God uses every situation, even mundane tasks, to prepare individuals for His purposes.

Conclusion

Psalms 78:71 not only chronicles the selection of David as king but also opens up profound theological reflections on God’s provision, the nature of leadership, and the importance of humility. The insights gleaned from the public domain commentaries enrich our understanding of this pivotal moment in Israel's history and serve as a reminder of the continuous call for leaders to reflect Christ's shepherding heart.