Psalm 78. This is a Psalm of a repetitive theme within the O.T. in particular of God's longsuffering from the time of the Exodus until the time of Israel's peak (in this case; under David's leadership as per verse 70). We should be reminded of Joshua 5:14 in regard to the Angel of the Lord being on "the Lord's side".
God had established a covenant with Abraham in Genesis 15 (after initial promises in Genesis 12 and the circumcision rite in Genesis 17 setting His people apart. some 450 years before Moses and the predicted diaspora that occured in Exodus.
Verses 4 through 8 show how the children were to be taught the Word so that they would not forget the promises to their fathers and of course to worship the one true God. In the case of Ephriam; it is not clear from my study where they failed; but it is clear here that they didn't keep the covenant of God (verse 10). This could certainly be attributed to not destroying enemies as commanded. In any event; verses 11 through 55 show God finally bringing the descendants of the Exodus into the Promised land after multiple rebellions. When they were there they continued to serve false gods (v. 56-59). Thus; GOd once again brought severe judgment. In fact; verse 65-66 could mean that God destroyed "enemies" both within and without once He finally judged whatever nations are referred to here. It is clear from scripture that many died when people presumtously fought without seeking God or sin was in the camp. Verses 68-72 shows at least temporary respite with David and the tribe of Judah being chosen. This would be shortly before the dividing of Israel after Solomon's reign became complete. Ultimately all the Covenant blessings go to God's true remnant but the rest have greater judgment having known God and rejected Him.
God had established a covenant with Abraham in Genesis 15 (after initial promises in Genesis 12 and the circumcision rite in Genesis 17 setting His people apart. some 450 years before Moses and the predicted diaspora that occured in Exodus.
Verses 4 through 8 show how the children were to be taught the Word so that they would not forget the promises to their fathers and of course to worship the one true God. In the case of Ephriam; it is not clear from my study where they failed; but it is clear here that they didn't keep the covenant of God (verse 10). This could certainly be attributed to not destroying enemies as commanded. In any event; verses 11 through 55 show God finally bringing the descendants of the Exodus into the Promised land after multiple rebellions. When they were there they continued to serve false gods (v. 56-59). Thus; GOd once again brought severe judgment. In fact; verse 65-66 could mean that God destroyed "enemies" both within and without once He finally judged whatever nations are referred to here. It is clear from scripture that many died when people presumtously fought without seeking God or sin was in the camp. Verses 68-72 shows at least temporary respite with David and the tribe of Judah being chosen. This would be shortly before the dividing of Israel after Solomon's reign became complete. Ultimately all the Covenant blessings go to God's true remnant but the rest have greater judgment having known God and rejected Him.
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