Psalm 68:18
You have ascended on high; You have led captives away. You have received gifts from men, even from the rebellious, that the LORD God may dwell there.
You have ascended on high
This phrase speaks to the triumphant ascension of God, which is a prophetic foreshadowing of Christ's ascension into heaven. The Hebrew root for "ascended" is "עָלָה" (alah), which means to go up or to rise. In the historical context, this imagery would resonate with the Israelites, who were familiar with the idea of a king ascending to his throne after a victory. In the New Testament, this is fulfilled in Christ's ascension, as described in Acts 1:9-11, where Jesus is taken up into heaven, signifying His victory over sin and death.

You have led captives away
This phrase indicates a victorious procession, where captives are led away as part of the spoils of war. The Hebrew word "שָׁבָה" (shabah) means to take captive or to lead away. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a conquering king would parade his captives as a demonstration of his power and victory. Spiritually, this is seen in Christ's victory over the spiritual forces of darkness, as He leads captivity captive, liberating those who were once bound by sin.

You have received gifts from men
Here, the focus is on the tribute or offerings given to a victorious king. The Hebrew word "לָקַח" (laqach) means to take or receive. In ancient times, it was customary for the conquered peoples to bring gifts to their conqueror as a sign of submission and acknowledgment of his authority. In the New Testament, this is reflected in Ephesians 4:8, where Paul interprets this as Christ giving gifts to men, emphasizing the grace and spiritual gifts bestowed upon the Church.

even from the rebellious
This phrase highlights the extent of God's sovereignty and victory, as even those who were once rebellious are brought into submission. The Hebrew word "סָרַר" (sarar) means to be stubborn or rebellious. Historically, this would include those who opposed the king but were now subdued. Spiritually, it signifies the transformative power of God's grace, which can turn even the hardest hearts towards Him.

that the LORD God may dwell there
The ultimate purpose of this victory and the receiving of gifts is so that God may dwell among His people. The Hebrew word "שָׁכַן" (shakan) means to dwell or abide. This reflects the desire of God to be present with His people, as seen in the tabernacle and later the temple. In the New Testament, this is fulfilled in the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within believers, making them the temple of God. This dwelling signifies peace, communion, and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.

Persons / Places / Events
1. God (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, depicted as a triumphant king who ascends on high, leading captives and receiving gifts.

2. Captives
Those who were once in bondage, now led away by God, symbolizing victory and liberation.

3. Men (Humanity)
Those who give gifts to God, including the rebellious, indicating God's sovereignty over all.

4. The Rebellious
Represents those who were once opposed to God but are now subject to His rule.

5. The LORD's Dwelling
The ultimate purpose of these actions is that the LORD God may dwell among His people, signifying His presence and reign.
Teaching Points
Christ's Victory and Ascension
Just as God ascended and led captives, Christ's ascension signifies His victory over sin and death, offering freedom to believers.

Gifts for Service
The gifts received by God, even from the rebellious, highlight the transformation and service expected of believers, who are called to use their gifts for God's glory.

God's Sovereignty Over All
The inclusion of the rebellious in giving gifts underscores God's authority over all creation, inviting everyone to submit to His rule.

The Purpose of God's Actions
God's ultimate aim is to dwell among His people, emphasizing the importance of His presence in our lives and communities.

Living in Light of God's Presence
As God dwells among us, we are called to live in holiness and obedience, reflecting His character to the world.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the imagery of God leading captives in Psalm 68:18 enhance our understanding of Christ's work in Ephesians 4:8?

2. In what ways can we offer our gifts to God, even if we have been rebellious in the past?

3. How does recognizing God's sovereignty over all people, including the rebellious, impact our approach to evangelism and discipleship?

4. What practical steps can we take to cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our daily lives?

5. How can the concept of God dwelling among His people influence our interactions within our church community?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Ephesians 4:8
Paul references this verse to describe Christ's ascension and His giving of gifts to the church, drawing a parallel between God's victory in the Old Testament and Christ's triumph in the New Testament.

Colossians 2:15
This verse speaks of Christ disarming the powers and authorities, making a public spectacle of them, which echoes the imagery of leading captives in triumph.

Exodus 15:17
Describes God bringing His people to His holy dwelling, similar to the purpose of God's actions in Psalm 68:18.

Numbers 8:19
Discusses the Levites as gifts to Aaron and his sons, illustrating the concept of receiving gifts for service in God's dwelling.

Revelation 21:3
Speaks of God's dwelling with humanity, fulfilling the ultimate purpose of His redemptive work.
Ascension DayHenry J. Swallow.Psalm 68:18
Gifts Received and Gifts MinisteredDean Vaughan.Psalm 68:18
Gifts Received for the RebelliousJohn Newton Psalm 68:18
New Testament DonationsC. Jordan, M. A.Psalm 68:18
Our Lord's Triumphant AscensionPsalm 68:18
The AscensionW. Forsyth Psalm 68:18
The Ascension of ChristR. Davies, M. A.Psalm 68:18
The Exaltation of the SaviourR. Balmer, D. D.Psalm 68:18
The Ark and ChristW. Forsyth Psalm 68:1-35
The Progress of HumanityHomilistPsalm 68:7-18
People
Benjamin, David, Naphtali, Psalmist, Salmon, Zalmon, Zebulun
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Ascend, Ascended, Captive, Captives, Captivity, Dwell, Dwelling, Elohim, Gifts, Hast, Jah, Leading, Led, Mount, O, Offerings, Power, Prisoners, Rebellious, Received, Receiving, Refractory, Rest, Seat, Taking, Train, Yah, Yea, Yes
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Psalm 68:18

     2018   Christ, divinity
     2366   Christ, prophecies concerning
     2372   Christ, victory
     2505   Christ, ascension
     5246   captivity
     5325   gifts

Library
The Burden-Bearing God
'Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits.'--(A.V.). 'Blessed be the Lord, who daily beareth our burden.' --PSALM lxviii. 19 (R.V.). The difference between these two renderings seems to be remarkable, and a person ignorant of any language but our own might find it hard to understand how any one sentence was susceptible of both. But the explanation is extremely simple. The important words in the Authorised Version, 'with benefits,' are a supplement, having nothing to represent them
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Publication of the Gospel
The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it [or of the preachers] P erhaps no one Psalm has given greater exercise to the skill and patience of commentators and critics, than the sixty-eighth. I suppose the difficulties do not properly belong to the Psalm, but arise from our ignorance of various circumstances to which the Psalmist alludes; which probably were, at that time, generally known and understood. The first verse is the same with the stated form of benediction
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

Gifts Received for the Rebellious
Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: Thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them. W hen Joseph exchanged a prison for the chief honour and government of Egypt, the advantage of his exaltation was felt by those who little deserved it (Genesis 45:4, 5) . His brethren hated him, and had conspired to kill him. And though he was preserved from death, they were permitted to sell him for a bond-servant. He owed his servitude,
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

Rejoicing Before God.
(Preached on the Anniversary of the Battle of Leipsic, October 18th, 1818.) TEXT: PSALM lxviii. 3, 4. ANY one who had heard our last hymn without knowing the occasion of to-day's festival might suppose that we seemed more like entering on a day of supplication in regard to the future, than on what it really is, a day of thankful remembrance of the great and divine deliverance wrought for us in the immediate past. But can we, or ought we, to separate these? God's kindness and grace always anticipate
Friedrich Schleiermacher—Selected Sermons of Schleiermacher

Daily Blessings for God's People
"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. He that is our God is the God of salvation, and unto God the Lord belong the issues from death."--Psalm 68:19-20. WE observe that this Psalm is a very difficult one. One of the ablest commentators calls it a titanic Psalm. It is truly a giant Psalm, and to master it means much labour. Yet it is by no means difficult to understand when it comet to practical duties, and to those doctrines which are vital. For instance,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 62: 1916

That it is Profitable to Communicate Often
The Voice of the Disciple Behold I come unto Thee, O Lord, that I may be blessed through Thy gift, and be made joyful in Thy holy feast which Thou, O God, of Thy goodness hast prepared for the poor.(1) Behold in Thee is all that I can and ought to desire, Thou art my salvation and redemption, my hope and strength, my honour and glory. Therefore rejoice the soul of Thy servant this day, for unto Thee, O Lord Jesus, do I lift up my soul.(2) I long now to receive Thee devoutly and reverently, I desire
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

The First Part
Of the Apocalyptical Commentaries, according to the Rule of the Apocalyptical Key, on the First Prophecy which is contained in the Seals and Trumpets; with an Introduction concerning the Scene of the Apocalypse. As it is my design to investigate the meaning of the Apocalyptical visions, it is requisite for me to treat, in the first place, of that celestial theatre to which John was called, in order to behold them, exhibited as on a stage, and afterwards of the prophecies in succession, examined by
Joseph Mede—A Key to the Apocalypse

And That, Being Raised from the Dead, He was to Ascend into Heaven...
And that, being raised from the dead, He was to ascend into heaven, (Ps. lxviii 17) David says thus: The chariot of God (is) ten-thousandfold, thousands are the drivers: [263] the Lord (is) among then in Sinai in (his) sanctuary. He ascended up on high, he led captivity captive: he received, he gave gifts to men. And by captivity he means the destruction of the rule of the apostate angels. [264] He declares also the place where He was to ascend into heaven from the earth. For the Lord, he says, from
Irenæus—The Demonstration of the Apostolic Preaching

The Ascension of Christ
It seemed expedient for him to stay, to accomplish the conversion of the world. Would not his presence have had an influence to win by eloquence of gracious word and argument of loving miracle? If he put forth his power the battle would soon be over, and his rule over all hearts would be for ever established. "Thine arrows are sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; whereby the people fall under thee." Go not from the conflict, thou mighty bowman, but still cast thine all-subduing darts abroad.
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

Twentieth Day for God's Spirit on the Heathen
WHAT TO PRAY.--For God's Spirit on the Heathen "Behold, these shall come from far; and these from the land of Sinim."--ISA. xlix. 12. "Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall haste to stretch out her hands to God."--PS. lxviii. 31. "I the Lord will hasten it in His time."--ISA. lx. 22. Pray for the heathen, who are yet without the word. Think of China, with her three hundred millions--a million a month dying without Christ. Think of Dark Africa, with its two hundred millions. Think
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession

That to Him who Loveth God is Sweet Above all Things and in all Things
Behold, God is mine, and all things are mine! What will I more, and what more happy thing can I desire? O delightsome and sweet world! that is, to him that loveth the Word, not the world, neither the things that are in the world.(1) My God, my all! To him that understandeth, that word sufficeth, and to repeat it often is pleasing to him that loveth it. When Thou art present all things are pleasant; when Thou art absent, all things are wearisome. Thou makest the heart to be at rest, givest it
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

Of the Three Woe Trumpets.
There still remain three trumpets, the greatest and most grievous of all, and therefore discriminated from the former by the appellation of Woes. For after the conclusion of the fourth trumpet, "I saw and heard," says he, "an angel flying in the midst of heaven, and saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabitants of the earth, by reason of the other voices of the trumpets of the three angels, which are yet to sound." Also, c. ix. v. 12, and c. xi. v. 14. Doubtless, since the Christian
Joseph Mede—A Key to the Apocalypse

Letter Xlii to the Illustrious Youth, Geoffrey De Perrone, and his Comrades.
To the Illustrious Youth, Geoffrey de Perrone, and His Comrades. He pronounces the youths noble because they purpose to lead the religious life, and exhorts them to perseverance. To his beloved sons, Geoffrey and his companions, Bernard, called Abbot of Clairvaux, wishes the spirit of counsel and strength. 1. The news of your conversion that has got abroad is edifying many, nay, is making glad the whole Church of God, so that The heavens rejoice and the earth is glad (Ps. xcvi. 11), and every tongue
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

Epistle xxvi. To Theoctista, Patrician
To Theoctista, Patrician [1704] Gregory to Theoctista, &c. That your Excellency, though placed in so great a tumult of affairs, is full of the fruitfulness of the sacred word, and incessantly pants after eternal joys, for this I give great thanks to Almighty God, in that in you I see fulfilled what is written of the elect fathers, But the children of Israel walked on dry land through the midst of the sea (Exod. xv. 19). But on the other hand, I am come into the depth of the sea, and the storm hath
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Epistle vii. To Anastasius, Patriarch of Antioch .
To Anastasius, Patriarch of Antioch [1310] . Gregory to Anastasius, &c. I have found what your Blessedness has written to be as rest to the weary, as health to the sick, as a fountain to the thirsty, as shade to the oppressed with heat. For those words of yours did not seem even to be expressed by the tongue of the flesh, inasmuch as you so disclosed the spiritual love which you bear me as if your soul itself were speaking. But very hard was that which followed, in that your love enjoined me to
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

The Exile --Continued.
There are many echoes of this period of Engedi in the Psalms. Perhaps the most distinctly audible of these are to be found in the seventh psalm, which is all but universally recognised as David's, even Ewald concurring in the general consent. It is an irregular ode--for such is the meaning of Shiggaion in the title, and by its broken rhythms and abrupt transitions testifies to the emotion of its author. The occasion of it is said to be "the words of Cush the Benjamite." As this is a peculiar name
Alexander Maclaren—The Life of David

Book iii. The Ascent: from the River Jordan to the Mount of Transfiguration.
{hebrew} In every passage of Scripture where thou findest the Majesty of God, thou also findest close by His Condescension (Humility). So it is written down in the Law [Deut. x. 17, followed by verse 18], repeated in the Prophets [Is. lvii. 15], and reiterated in the Hagiographa [Ps. lxviii. 4, followed by verse 5].' - Megill 31 a.
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Letter Xlv (Circa A. D. 1120) to a Youth Named Fulk, who Afterwards was Archdeacon of Langres
To a Youth Named Fulk, Who Afterwards Was Archdeacon of Langres He gravely warns Fulk, a Canon Regular, whom an uncle had by persuasions and promises drawn back to the world, to obey God and be faithful to Him rather than to his uncle. To the honourable young man Fulk, Brother Bernard, a sinner, wishes such joy in youth as in old age he will not regret. 1. I do not wonder at your surprise; I should wonder if you were not suprised [sic] that I should write to you, a countryman to a citizen, a monk
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

Epistle v. To Theoctista, Sister of the Emperor.
To Theoctista, Sister of the Emperor. Gregory to Theoctista, &c. With how great devotion my mind prostrates itself before your Venerableness I cannot fully express in words; nor yet do I labour to give utterance to it, since, even though I were silent, you read in your heart your own sense of my devotion. I wonder, however, that you withdrew your countenance, till of late bestowed on me, from this my recent engagement in the pastoral office; wherein, under colour of episcopacy, I have been brought
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Memoir of John Bunyan
THE FIRST PERIOD. THIS GREAT MAN DESCENDED FROM IGNOBLE PARENTS--BORN IN POVERTY--HIS EDUCATION AND EVIL HABITS--FOLLOWS HIS FATHER'S BUSINESS AS A BRAZIER--ENLISTS FOR A SOLDIER--RETURNS FROM THE WARS AND OBTAINS AN AMIABLE, RELIGIOUS WIFE--HER DOWER. 'We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.'--2 Cor 4:7 'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.'--Isaiah 55:8. 'Though ye have lien among the
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Nature of the Renderings
From the text we now turn to the renderings, and to the general principles that were followed, both in the Old and in the New Testament. The revision of the English text was in each case subject to the same general rule, viz. "To introduce as few alterations as possible into the Text of the Authorised Version consistently with faithfulness"; but, owing to the great difference between the two languages, the Hebrew and the Greek, the application of the rule was necessarily different, and the results
C. J. Ellicott—Addresses on the Revised Version of Holy Scripture

The Christ Crowned, the Fact
"When God sought a King for His people of old, He went to the fields to find him; A shepherd was he, with his crook and his lute And a following flock behind him. "O love of the sheep, O joy of the lute, And the sling and the stone for battle; A shepherd was King, the giant was naught, And the enemy driven like cattle. "When God looked to tell of His good will to men, And the Shepherd-King's son whom He gave them; To shepherds, made meek a-caring for sheep, He told of a Christ sent to save them.
by S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks on the Crowned Christ of Revelation

Of the Last Resurrection.
1. For invincible perseverance in our calling, it is necessary to be animated with the blessed hope of our Savior's final advent. 2. The perfect happiness reserved for the elect at the final resurrection unknown to philosophers. 3. The truth and necessity of this doctrine of a final resurrection. To confirm our belief in it we have, 1. The example of Christ; and, 2. The omnipotence of God. There is an inseparable connection between us and our risen Savior. The bodies of the elect must be conformed
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Mothers, Daughters, and Wives in Israel
In order accurately to understand the position of woman in Israel, it is only necessary carefully to peruse the New Testament. The picture of social life there presented gives a full view of the place which she held in private and in public life. Here we do not find that separation, so common among Orientals at all times, but a woman mingles freely with others both at home and abroad. So far from suffering under social inferiority, she takes influential and often leading part in all movements, specially
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life

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