First Lesson: 2 Samuel 6:1-15

Theme: The awesome power of God

Exegetical Note
This account of David’s bringing of the ark to Jerusalem reveals two very different sides of Jahweh’s power, both of which are well documented in the Old Testament. On the one hand, the well-meaning Uzzah is killed because he touched the ark; on the other, Obededom and his household were blessed by its presence. The whole story is reminiscent of Rudolf Otto’s contention that "the Holy" is a mystery that is at once compellingly attractive and fearsomely dangerous. Popular religion tends to forget or ignore that latter aspect, the "Uzzah factor."

Call to Worship
Leader: Ours is a God of awesome power, and should not be taken lightly.
People: GOD’S POWER HAS BEEN KNOWN TO BLESS AND TO CURSE, TO SAVE AND TO DAMN.…