Thrive: Deeper: Recent Episodes
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An ongoing conversation with Dr Matthew Jacoby, author of the Thrive Bible reading guides, teaching pastor, and leader of the Psalmist band Sons of Korah. Join us as we go deeper into the Bible, discussing the passages as we read them together with Thrive.
Acts 1 stands at a crucial turning point in the biblical story. It gathers together the resurrection of Jesus, the expectation of the kingdom of God, the promise of the Holy Spirit, the ascension of Christ, and the calling of the apostles to bear witness to the ends of the earth. The chapter is not merely a historical bridge between the Gospel of Luke and the birth of the Church at Pentecost; it is a theological foundation for Christian mission, hope, leadership, prayer, and dependence on the Spirit.
Luke presents the risen Jesus as the continuing Lord of the story. The work of Jesus did not end with his death, resurrection, or ascension. Acts begins by reminding us that the Gospel was only the account of what Jesus “began” to do and teach. The implication is profound: in Acts, Jesus continues his work from heaven through the Holy Spirit, through his apostles, and through the witnessing community he sends into the world - His church.
Climax of Luke’s Gospel: Jesus’ royal arrival, His prophetic warnings, His final teachings, His sacrificial death, His victorious resurrection, and His ascension. The theological centre of these chapters is the revelation of Jesus as the Messianic King, the Suffering Servant, and the Risen Lord who fulfils Scripture and inaugurates God’s saving reign.
- The Jewish War: Josephus
Luke 16–18 belongs to the great travel section of Luke’s Gospel, where Jesus is moving resolutely toward Jerusalem. In this part of the narrative, Jesus forms his disciples for life under the reign of God. The emphasis is not merely on private spirituality but on a whole reordering of values: money, status, religious confidence, justice, marriage, gratitude, prayer, and discipleship are all brought under the searching light of the kingdom.
These chapters are held together by a repeated contrast between appearances and divine reality. The wealthy man appears secure, but is exposed as spiritually bankrupt. The beggar Lazarus appears forsaken, but is carried to Abraham’s side. The Pharisee appears righteous, but the tax collector goes home justified. The rich ruler appears obedient, but his possessions reveal a divided heart. Children, widows, lepers, and the blind become signs of the kingdom because they receive mercy rather than claim entitlement.
Luke gathers four chapters of Jesus’ teaching that move like a spiritual journey: awakening, repentance, costly discipleship, and the joy of being found. Jesus exposes false securities, dismantles religious pretence, reveals the Father’s heart, and invites 'those who have ears to hear' into a kingdom that is both fiercely demanding and overwhelmingly gracious. These chapters show Jesus at His most urgent and His most tender — confronting the proud while lifting the broken.
Jesus reveals himself as the Messiah, then immediately destroys every false expectation: he will suffer, die, and call his followers to do the same. Glory appears on the mountain, but the message is not comfort—it is listen to him and follow him down the hard road. Again and again, Jesus exposes weak faith, pride, and divided loyalty, showing that discipleship is not admiration from a distance but costly surrender.
Then he turns his fire on false religion. The outsider becomes the true neighbour, the listener is praised above the busy performer, prayer is raw dependence, and neutrality toward Jesus is exposed as impossible. By the time he confronts the Pharisees and lawyers, the point is unmistakable: God is not impressed by polished religion that hides greed, pride, and resistance. Jesus is forcing a choice—repent, or be exposed.
Luke 6–9 presents Jesus teaching the radical values of God’s kingdom and then proving His authority in every sphere. He blesses the poor and persecuted, warns the comfortable, commands love for enemies and generous mercy, and insists that true disciples show their faith by their fruit. He then backs this up with power: healing the sick, freeing the demon‑possessed, calming a storm, raising the dead, forgiving notorious sinners, and even feeding five thousand with a few loaves and fish.
Luke 1–5 introduces the gospel by grounding God’s salvation in real history and in the fulfilment of Old Testament promise. Luke begins with a stated purpose: to provide “certainty” about what has been accomplished among God’s people (1:1–4). The early chapters emphasise divine initiative—God acts, speaks, and keeps covenant—through the births of John and Jesus, the virgin conception by the Holy Spirit, and Spirit-filled prophetic songs that interpret these events. Major themes already appear: God’s mercy, the forgiveness of sins, and the “great reversal” in which God lifts the lowly and confronts human pride.
In Luke 3–5, Jesus is publicly identified and authorised as the Spirit-anointed Son, then revealed as the Messiah whose kingdom comes through word and deed. His baptism and genealogy frame him as the representative, obedient Son, and his wilderness testing shows faithfulness where others failed. Jesus then announces good news and demonstrates authority over sin, sickness, and evil—calling people to repentance, extending forgiveness, and forming a new community around himself (including those considered outsiders). These chapters set expectations for the rest of Luke: salvation is holistic, centred on Jesus’ authority to forgive, and it creates disciples who respond in faith and follow him.
- Get the Thrive Bible Reading Guide - Companion to this PodCast
In this episode, we’re exploring Deuteronomy 16–34—the second half of Moses’ final covenant address. We’ll follow how worship, leadership, and everyday justice are ordered under God’s covenant, hear the blessings and curses that seal it, and see the surprising promise that lasting obedience requires hearts changed by God. We’ll close with Moses handing leadership to Joshua, singing his witness song, blessing the tribes, and dying within sight of the land—reminding us that Israel’s hope rests in God’s faithfulness.
Deuteronomy 1–15 shows Moses renewing God’s covenant with Israel, retelling their history to teach that God is faithful despite human failure, and calling them to love the LORD wholeheartedly. The laws given—about worship, justice, generosity, and care for the vulnerable—show that true faith involves both the heart and everyday life, shaping a community centered on absolute and complete surrender to God.
These chapters remind us that obedience flows from grace, not earning: God redeems first, then calls his people to faithful living. The core principles remain—loving God fully, resisting idolatry, remembering God in prosperity, and expressing faith through justice, generosity, and compassion in daily life.
- Thrive Bible Reading Guide
- Get the Thrive Bible Reading Guide - Companion to this PodCast
We turn to Numbers chapters 19 through 35—a stretch of Scripture that sits quietly in the wilderness, yet speaks profoundly about life, death, holiness, and hope. These chapters unfold as Israel stands between graves and inheritance, between judgment already delivered and promise not yet fulfilled. Here we encounter enigmatic rituals, failed leaders, unexpected blessings, moral collapse, and surprising mercy. As we explore these texts, we’ll discover that the wilderness is not wasted space—it is where God forms a people capable of dwelling with him.
- Get the Thrive Bible Reading Guide - Companion to this PodCast
The book of Numbers (Hebrew Bemidbar, beh-mid-BAR, ‘In the wilderness’) narrates Israel’s journey from Mount Sinai toward the Promised Land. Numbers 1–18 forms a coherent theological unit describing Israel’s organization as the covenant people of YHWH, their rebellion, and God’s reaffirmation of divinely appointed leadership and holiness.
Leviticus 18–27 forms a distinct theological unit often called the Holiness Code. Its central refrain is unmistakable:
“You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.”
What is striking here is who is addressed. In earlier chapters of Leviticus, holiness is largely concentrated in sacred space—the tabernacle—and sacred people—the priests. In these chapters, all Israel is called to holiness, and the entire land becomes morally and spiritually responsive to human behaviour.
Holiness is not merely ritual purity, but a whole-of-life response to the presence of a holy God dwelling among His people.
This is the heartbeat of Israel’s worship—priests being set apart, sacrifices taking shape, blood and holiness woven into every detail. It’s gritty, it’s symbolic, and it’s shockingly relevant. Because underneath all the rituals is a God drawing near, teaching His people how life with Him actually works. These chapters aren’t dusty rules; they’re a roadmap to a different kind of life—one shaped by presence, purity, and a love that refuses to stay at a distance.
Thrive Bible Reading Guide
In this episode, we journey into the rich and symbolic world of Leviticus 1–7—a section of Scripture that lays the foundation for Israel’s worship and relationship with God. In these chapters, we explore five major offerings: the Burnt Offering, Grain Offering, Peace Offering, Sin Offering, and Guilt Offering—each revealing something profound about devotion, gratitude, reconciliation, repentance, and justice.
Together, we’ll uncover how each of these offerings points forward to Jesus Christ—His complete sacrifice, His role as our peace, and His work in bringing forgiveness and restoration. Whether you’re new to Leviticus or rediscovering it, this episode will help you see these ancient practices with fresh eyes and appreciate their ongoing relevance for faith and worship today.
In this episode, we dive into the Song of Solomon—a striking collection of ancient Hebrew love poetry. Unlike any other book in Scripture, it boldly celebrates desire, beauty, and mutual delight, giving voice to both lovers and inviting us to see human intimacy as something sacred and good. We’ll explore how its vivid garden imagery, themes of equality, and the refrain “Do not awaken love before its time” offer wisdom for relationships and intimacy today. Join us as we discover why this poetic book still speaks powerfully to questions of love, longing, and the sacredness of sexuality.
In this episode, we step into the heart of Ecclesiastes, where the Teacher holds nothing back. He names the world as it really is—full of injustice, envy, fragile systems, and the relentless march of time. Wisdom helps, but it can’t shield us from life’s contradictions. Death comes to all. Our striving slips through our fingers. Control is an illusion.
And yet, right in the middle of this stark realism, a surprising melody rises: joy as gift. The Teacher invites us to receive the simple, sacred pleasures of life—work, food, friendship, love—not as achievements but as grace. He urges us to live generously, embrace risk, remember our Creator, and walk with reverence in a world we cannot master. Ecclesiastes 4–12 doesn’t offer easy answers; it offers something better: a way to live meaningfully in the mystery.
Ecclesiastes 1-3 reflects on the fleeting nature of life, declaring that all human pursuits—wisdom, pleasure, and achievements—are ultimately temporary and unsatisfying. The Teacher, traditionally identified as Solomon, emphasizes that everything “under the sun” is transient, and true fulfilment cannot be found in material things.
Although we might consider this to be a 'dark' somewhat pessimistic view of life, it's actually an important corrective to our persistent thinking and striving to build our own little 'paradise' in this life.
Out of the whirlwind, God finally answers Job, not with explanations but with questions that unveil the vastness of creation and the limits of human understanding. He speaks of the foundations of the earth, the boundaries of the sea, the mysteries of light and darkness, and the wild creatures that roam beyond human control. Job is confronted with the reality that the world is sustained by a wisdom far greater than his own, a wisdom that governs both order and chaos.
Humbled, Job confesses his ignorance and retracts his complaints, acknowledging that he spoke of things too wonderful for him to grasp. In repentance, he bows before God’s majesty. The Lord restores Job, rebukes his friends for misrepresenting Him, and grants Job renewed blessing—double his former wealth, restored family, and a long, full life. The story closes with Job reconciled to God, living in awe and trust, his suffering transformed into deeper understanding and restored joy.
Job’s friends break the silence.
Eliphaz: “Suffering proves guilt—repent and God will restore you.”
Bildad: “Tradition says the wicked perish, the righteous endure. Seek God.”
Zophar: “Your words are empty. Hidden sin explains your pain. Turn back.”
But Job refuses their easy answers. He cries out in anguish: “I am innocent. My suffering is not proof of sin.” He challenges their wisdom, points out that the wicked often prosper, and longs for a voice to plead his case before God.
Hope flickers: “I know my Redeemer lives.” Yet defiance holds: “Till I die, I will not deny my integrity.”
The debate spirals—friends accuse, Job resists. Their words expose the limits of human wisdom, setting the stage for God’s reply.
The Heavenly Challenge and Earthly Calamity.
Today, we step into the opening chapters of Job—a cosmic courtroom drama where faith collides with suffering. Job is blameless, upright, and blessed… until the Accuser challenges everything. In a single sweep, wealth, family, and health are stripped away. Yet the real question isn’t what Job loses—it’s whether his trust in God can survive when the foundations of life collapse. Buckle up: This is the story of a man tested to the core, and a God whose purposes run deeper than our pain.
Revelation 21 and 22 form the grand finale of the entire Bible.
These two chapters describe the new creation — the new heaven and new earth, the New Jerusalem, and the eternal state of redeemed humanity with God.
Chapters 19 and 20 come after a series of judgements upon the earth and the fall of Babylon (symbolising the world’s corrupt systems). These chapters move from the celebration in heaven to Christ’s victorious return, the binding of Satan, the millennium, and the final judgement.
Ezekiel 12-20 Chapter 12:
- Ezekiel symbolizes the people's exile by moving his belongings at night.
- The exiles doubt the prophecies, but God confirms their fulfillment. Chapter 13:
- False prophets are rebuked for spreading deceitful messages.
- God will punish false prophets who give false hope. Chapter 14:
- Elders come to Ezekiel for guidance, but their hearts are still attached to idols.
- God's judgment will be severe, even sparing only a remnant. Chapter 15:
- Jerusalem is compared to a useless vine, only fit for burning.
- God's judgment is like fire consuming the unfruitful branches. Chapter 16:
- Jerusalem's history is depicted as an abandoned baby who grows into a beautiful woman.
- Jerusalem's unfaithfulness to God is likened to prostitution and idolatry.
- God will punish Jerusalem for her sins, but will also restore her in the end. Chapter 17:
- A parable of eagles and a vine is used to describe the political alliances of Jerusalem.
- Despite making alliances, Jerusalem will face consequences for her rebellion against Babylon.
- God will plant a new, humble cedar tree representing a future restored Israel. Chapter 18:
- The concept of personal responsibility for sin is emphasized.
- Each individual is accountable for their actions, and righteousness can change one's fate.
- The proverb about sour grapes is corrected; each person bears their own guilt. Chapter 19:
- A lamentation for Israel's princes is presented in the form of a poem.
- Israel's leaders are compared to young lions, caught in traps by foreign powers.
- The leaders' downfall is attributed to their unfaithfulness and reliance on alliances. Chapter 20:
- Elders inquire of Ezekiel about seeking God. They are reminded of their ancestors' idolatry in Egypt.
- God's patience and desire for Israel's obedience are highlighted throughout history.
- Despite rebelliousness, God will ultimately restore Israel for the sake of His name.
In the midst of the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel, a prophet and captive in a foreign land, is chosen to bear witness to remarkable visions and profound messages. The initial vision paints a vivid tableau of a stormy whirlwind, from which emerges a wondrous entity comprising four living beings with human, lion, eagle, and ox-like features. This enigmatic being supports a platform bearing a throne upon which God's radiant presence materializes. In this breathtaking spectacle, Ezekiel witnesses God's sovereignty, His mobility, and a glimpse of the heavenly realm.
God calls Ezekiel into service, entrusting him with the pivotal role of a watchman, charged with alerting the sinful Israelites of their transgressions. To underscore the seriousness of his mission, Ezekiel is instructed to consume a scroll symbolizing God's words, signifying the intimate connection between the prophet and his divine message.
Ezekiel constructs a model representing Jerusalem and stages a portrayal of its impending siege. This physical enactment becomes a visual metaphor for the city's impending doom, a consequence of its rebellion against God's commandments.
In a haunting vision, Ezekiel beholds the gradual departure of God's glory from the temple—an ominous sign of Israel's spiritual deterioration.
The narrative progresses with a sobering portrayal of the city's leaders engaged in corrupt practices, provoking God's wrath and condemnation. However, amid the gloom, a ray of hope pierces through. God pledges a future renewal—a transformation of hearts, a promise of a new beginning, and restoration for the faithful remnant.
Within these chapters, a tapestry of themes emerges—God's sovereignty, the impending judgment due to disobedience, the prophetic mission, and the resilient assurance of eventual redemption. Through Ezekiel's visions and oracles, the exiled Israelites are confronted with both warning and solace, a call to reflection and repentance amidst the impending trials.
Jeremiah chapter 41 to 52, covers the period following the fall of Jerusalem, with a focus on the events that occurred in the aftermath of the city's destruction. We see the chaotic situation in Judah, the assassination of Gedaliah, the fear of reprisals from the Babylonians, and the eventual escape of some Judeans to Egypt against Jeremiah's warnings. The section also includes prophecies and messages from the prophet Jeremiah to the exiled Judeans, encouraging them to accept their fate and trust in their hope for a future restoration. Tragic time in the history of ancient Israel, the beginning of the Babylonian exile, which would last for 7 decades.
The overall context of Jeremiah 33-40 is one of impending doom and captivity for the people of Judah, as well as the prophet Jeremiah's steadfast proclamation of God's judgment, restoration, and hope amidst challenging circumstances. In 605 BCE, the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar II launched the first of several campaigns against Judah, leading to the subjugation of the kingdom. Over a span of approximately ten years, Nebuchadnezzar conducted multiple sieges and deportations, culminating in the complete destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE. The Babylonians razed the city walls, burned the temple, and carried off a significant portion of the population into exile in Babylon. Lamentations reflects the aftermath of this catastrophic event. A series of poetic lamentations or dirges, expresses the profound grief, sorrow, and anguish over the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of its inhabitants. The author, Jeremiah, mourns the loss of the city, the desolation of the temple, and the harsh realities faced by the survivors.
In these chapters, Jeremiah confronts the false prophets who have been deceiving the people with their misleading words. He denounces their lies and condemns their actions, warning of the dire consequences that await them. Amidst this criticism, Jeremiah emphasises the sovereignty of God and the importance of true prophetic messages. He assures the people that God is aware of the deceptive practices and will bring judgment upon the false prophets. Jeremiah contrasts these false shepherds with the true Shepherd, who will come in the form of a righteous leader from David's line – pointing forward to Jesus. Jeremiah also stresses the significance of repentance. He urges the people to turn away from their wickedness and return to the ways of the Lord. He warns that the destruction of Jerusalem is imminent due to the people's disobedience and lack of repentance. Despite the impending judgment, Jeremiah offers hope and reassurance. He prophesies a future restoration, where God will gather His scattered people from exile and bring them back to their land. He speaks of a new covenant that God will establish with His people, one that will surpass the previous covenant and be characterised by a deep personal relationship with God.
Judgment and Consequences: Jeremiah proclaims that God will bring upon them severe punishment, including famine, warfare, and exile, as a result of their persistent rebellion.
False Religion and Idolatry: Jeremiah denounces the worship of false gods and the practices associated with idol worship, highlighting the people's unfaithfulness to the true God.
The Role of the Prophet: Jeremiah's calling as a prophet and the challenges he faces are explored in these chapters. He encounters opposition, rejection, and persecution from both the people and the ruling elites. Despite the hardships, Jeremiah remains steadfast in his mission to deliver God's messages, even when they are unpopular and provoke hostility.
Social Injustice and Corruption: Jeremiah denounces the exploitation of the poor, oppression of the vulnerable, and dishonesty among the leaders. Jeremiah emphasizes the need for justice, righteousness, and fairness in society, calling for repentance and a return to God's ways.
The Deceptive Nature of False Prophets: Jeremiah contrasts his own prophetic message with that of the false prophets who deceive the people with false assurances of peace and prosperity. He exposes their lies and warns of the dire consequences that will follow their false prophecies. Jeremiah urges the people to discern the truth and not be swayed by these deceptive voices.
The Promised Restoration: Jeremiah also speaks of a future time when God will gather His people from the lands of their exile, restore them to their land, and establish a new covenant with them. This theme of restoration points towards a future redemption and renewal for the people of Judah.
Personal Suffering and Lamentation: Jeremiah expresses his deep anguish over the people's disobedience and the impending judgment. Jeremiah's personal struggles and his identification with the pain of his nation highlight the emotional depth of his prophetic calling.
The book of Hosea is mostly written in the form of Hebrew poetry. Hosea actually means ‘Salvation’ in Hebrew. Hosea was a contemporary of Isaiah and Micah – at the time of Israel (Northern Kingdom) ruler Jeroboam 2. 750-722 BC. Hosea is one of the most autobiographical of the prophetic Books in that the opening account of Hosea’s own marriage and family actually formed a vital part of his message. The people of Israel (Ephraim) placed false hope in their own remedies. Like farmers trying to sow in the wind. The seed would blow away and foreigners would take it. Their idols, temples and fortresses would be destroyed and military alliances would drain them dry, enslave them, and carry them away. Because of their rebellion and wickedness in trusting in the fertility cult of Baal, the Lord would reject them and make the people barren.
A Life that pleases God:
- Sow righteousness
- Reap unfailing love
- Seek the Lord
BUT . . . God stands ready to forgive and restore those who turn to Him in repentance.
In this episode we cover the books of Jonah and Amos, both written about the same time period during the rule of Jeroboam 2 one of Israel’s worst Kings.
The story of Jonah, is probably one of the most well known Bible stories. In many ways, it is holding up a mirror to our own disfunction when it comes to understanding God’s ways and in particular His unmerited grace. Are we OK with the fact that God loves our enemies? Do we let our pride get in the way of our joy as God redeems people to Himself?
Amos was called by God to head north into Israel to preach Gods truth to the people. The book is a collection of visions, poems, prayers etc from Amos that were compiled at some later stage – all with the intent of presenting a clear message to the evil northern Kingdom – a message we still need to hear today. He accuses Israel’s wealthy of ignoring the poor and of grave injustice to the people. Here we see the relationship between God’s justice and His mercy. He must judge and punish injustice and evil, but His ultimate plan is redemption – to restore Gods covenant family.
Written to Christians in the Roman province of Galatia. (In the center of modern Turkey). Capital of Galatia at the time was Ancyra. Written about the same time as Corinthians or alternate view is that this was Pauls earliest letter. The Christians in this province came manly from a Gentile background. They were relatively new believers (most likely only a matter of 2 or 3 years).
Paul wrote to respond to issues that had arisen after he left the Galatian church, where there were people saying that Christianity had to be a sect that sat within Judaism. Essentially Gentiles had to become Jews – and follow the Mosaic laws (circumcision, diet etc.), before they would be accepted as part of Gods people. These false teachers were called Judaizers.
We don’t belong to Gods family because of our behaviour, following ‘rules’ or even good works. We can’t make ourselves ‘righteous’ with God. We can only be righteous with God because of what He did for us in sending Jesus to die for our sin and brokenness.
We have to remain and grow in sensitivity to the leading of the Spirit so that we stay in step with God’s good and perfect way to live.It’s through the Spirit that Jesus can make us into the people God created us to be, we can live lives loving God and others and in this way we still fulfill the Torah of the Messiah. We need to be thankful that we are free from the burden of having to earn God’s love and approval.
Love is BigHearted NOT Big Headed. Legalism condemns, whilst Grace restores. We impress others with what we know. We impact others with how we love.
The Apostle Paul teaches about the spiritual war that the children of God are engaged in. He defends himself against those who oppose him. He recounted how he was caught up into the third heaven and described how his weaknesses proved to be a blessing. Before ending his epistle, Paul exhorted the Saints in Corinth to examine themselves and prove their faithfulness. In last part of 2 Corinthians we learn that Paul gloried in the Lord and taught that his own weaknesses should not be used to justify not listening to him. Paul mentioned additional ways Satan seeks to corrupt our thoughts and lead us away from Jesus Christ, including the use of false Christs and false apostles. Paul recounted the suffering he had endured as a true Apostle of the Saviour.
The church at Corinth had recently been struggling with divisions and quarrels which Paul had dealt with in his first letter. Now in this second letter, Paul felt the need to articulate a defense of his apostleship and his message. Some in the church had apparently taken his meekness among them to be a sign of moral weakness or lack of authority. Paul argued that he was of equal stature and importance as the other apostles, that he had deep knowledge of the Christian faith, that he had suffered profound physical punishment in the name of Christ, and that he had received visions and revelations from God. The message for us today is clear: living in unity requires us to humbly forgive one another and to follow our leaders. Second Corinthians reminds us that even as Christians, we hurt each other and need to forgive those who wrong us.
Love is the greatest gift of all. After Paul has said that the Corinthian church should eagerly desire the greater gifts, he then tells them what the greatest gift of all is. LOVE Paul says that Love should be the priority over ALL other aspects of life in the Spirit. BUT still the greatest of these is LOVE. So whilst the church had struggles around many issues internally – worship, prophecy, tongues, the highest priority for Paul was that they pursued LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER – above all these things.
Jesus placed “love your neighbor as yourself” second only to :”love the Lord your God” The command to love one another is the 2nd most important law in scripture.
1 Corinthians 8-12 We cover an enormous amount of territory through these chapters as Paul unpacks so many of the issues facing the early Corinthian church, but with very relevant lessons for us today! • Eating food sacrificed for other gods. • Freedom and Rights - Christian freedom grows as Christian understanding grows • Old Testament Lessons – Idolatry • Honoring Others in Worship • The Lords Supper • Spiritual Gifts in Worship • Unity and Diversity We need to restrain our freedoms if it will harm others. Knowledge should not overshadow love for brothers and sisters in the Lord. The good of others should always take priority over our own rights!
1 Corinthians 1 – 7 Corinth was a vey strategic city – center for trade as a port city. Paul spent 18 months living in Corinth as a missionary, getting to know people (networking), and so many people came to know Jesus and hear about Jesus. They formed a church community. You can read more about this initial ministry of Paul’s to Corinth in Acts 18. Paul moved on of course to start churches in other cities – he planted churches all over the Mediterranean world - and just a few years after moving on from Corinth, Paul starts to hear reports about some of the challenges within the relatively new church including a letter from the Corinthian Church asking questions about issues and division within the church. Paul responds to each of these issues with a reflection on the Gospel message of Jesus. Drawing comparison between what they say they believe and how they actually live.
Judah has reached the end of the road. The final 4 kings turned away from the exclusive worship of God that Josiah had practiced. In a series of attacks, Jerusalem is captured and totally destroyed and the people taken into captivity in Babylon.
God’s Prophets in the last days of the Southern Kingdom – Judah. Habakkuk – prophesied the Babylonian invasion soon after Josiah’s death as judgement from God on his sinful people. Daniel – Taken captive to Babylon during the reign of Jehoiakim. Lived most of his adult life in Babylon. Ezekiel – Taken captive to Babylon during Jehoiachin’s reign. His prophecy directed mainly at the people in exile. Jeremiah – Lived in Jerusalem during the destruction and then was taken with the final refugees to Egypt. Prophesied against the sins of the last 4 kings of Judah and the people.
City completely destroyed. Only the poorest left to look after the land. One of which was Jeremiah. After the Babylonian appointed ‘governor’ Gedaliah is assassinated, everyone flees to Egypt in a seeming reversal of the Exodus.
Jehoiachin (from the true Messianic line) was released by Babylonian King Evil-Merodach (Awil-Marduk) son of Nebuchadnezzar and allowed to live freely in Babylon and appears to have been treated as an important person by the king.
Hezekiah When there was finally a Godly King in Judah – Hezekiah – they find themselves facing the greatest threat the nation had ever known – the attack of Assyria. Without adequate resources to defend Jerusalem, Hezekiah casts himself in faith upon the Lord and receives not only the promise of victory through God’s prophet Isaiah, but also experiences God’s victory through the Lord’s intervention.
Manasseh Worst King ever to rule in Judah. Longest reigning Judean King - 55 years. He adopted a pro-Assyrian policy. Killed the prophet Isaiah. Rebuilt high places. Introduced pagan astral worship – popular with the Assyrians. Destruction of Jerusalem and Judah now inevitable.
Josiah Good in the sight of the Lord Book of the Law found in the temple. Covenant Renewal. Notably he tore down the Golden Calves altars that Jeroboam had made. Passover was re-instated nationally – first time since the Judges had reigned. About 500 years.
Jehu – Israel (Northern Kingdom) - Anointed as King by Elisha in secret and given the task to destroy the house of Ahab. Jehu is the only king of the Northern Kingdom (Israel) to have been anointed Carried out God’s requirement and prophesy to eliminate Ahab’s complete family line including Jezebel. Jehu eliminated Baal worship from Israel, but he continued to allow the worshipping of the Golden Calves.
Athaliah Usurps the Throne (Judah – Southern Kingdom). She annihilated all the royal heirs. King Jehorams daughter rescued Joash (son of Ahaziah) when he was just an infant. Athaliah overthrown after 6 years.
Jehoida (High Priest) made reforms. Tore down the temple of Baal. Joash anointed king of Judah (only 7 years old) (Only survivor of the Davidic line after all his siblings are murdered by Athaliah) Reigned for 40 years. Joash did what was right in the sight of the Lord, but the High Places were not taken down and the people continued to sacrifice on the high places. (Only one ‘high place’ where God had authorised sacrifices which was the Temple in Jerusalem). Joash recovered and restored the worship of the Lord and repaired of the Temple. Joash stayed on track with God under the supervision of the High Priest Jehoiada, but when Jehoiada died, Joash fell back into evil ways. He turned back to idolatry. Joash was assassinated when he had reigned for 40 years.
King Jehoahaz (Israel) did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. Continued with the sins (Idol worship) of Jeroboam. Israel accelerating it’s downhill slide to a day of reckoning.
Azariah King of Judah. Did what was right in the Lords sight. (Reigned for 52 years). Still however the High Places were NOT taken down.
The cost of Syncretism!
2 Kings 2 - 2 Kings 8 As we head into 2 Kings, we see Jehoshaphat become King of Judah (the southern Kingdom) and the writer states he ‘did what was right in the eyes of the Lord’ We’ll here more about Jehoshaphat as we move forward, but we can find out some key aspects to Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 17-20. • Jehoshaphat was a King with a passionate personal commitment to God. • Jehoshaphat was committed to the centrality of the word of God in such a way that he ordered his reign as King around Gods word. • He was determined to trust the Lord – not man! As we move into 2 Kings, we see that it was time, within God’s sovereign purposes, for Elisha to succeed Elijah. This transition takes place in a supernatural way.
We then hear of a number of miracles performed by Elisha as he obeys the Lord, and we are introduced to Naaman whose disease is healed. Again, as we look at these stories, we see the faithfulness of God and his willingness to come to the aid of His people when they turn to him . . . even just a little! There is some much to give us encouragement and hope here.
1 Kings 16 leading into 17 – we see the House of Omri take reign of Israel (the northern Kingdom) and his son Ahab. During Ahab’s 22 year reign he consolidated his fathers achievements and expanded Israel’s influence. Secular historians would tend to speak highly of the accomplishments of Ahab. But the Bible has a different perspective. It was the worst of times for the northern Kingdom – Israel. Ahab did more evil than any before him.
Ahab was a polytheist – claiming to follow the Lord, but also serving Baal. Israel was now in a place where worshipping many gods was the norm. The most powerful influence in his life was his wife Jezebel. Under Ahab and Jezebel, Baal worship became the state religion of Israel.
Then enters Elijah. From this point forward until well into 2 Kings, the central focus of the writer of Kings is not on the Kings, or armies, or an organised rebellion to oppose an evil King, but 2 men armed the Word of God. Elijah lived his life under the authority of Gods word in total dependence on God. God was demonstrating to Elijah that HE was the God of all – including nature – not Baal and he would provide all that Elijah needed to survive. This was crucial preparation for what we see happen at Mount Carmel.
We then meet Obadiah – ‘Keeper of Ahab’s Palace’. Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord BUT, was balancing loyalties.
Then we see the powerful story of Elijah on Mount Carmel. Elijah’s prayer to God was simple compared to the elaborate rituals of the Baal prophets. “ . . . so these people will know that you, oh Lord, are God.” God answered instantly . . . the people cried out The Lord he is God!
But then we see that Elijah is on the run again. He flees into Judah (Beer-sheba). Elijah is led by the Lord to Mount Horeb – also known as Mount Sinai where God had revealed himself to Moses. Elijah too will hear from God.
In this episode of Thrive Deeper we continue our study through the Kings of Israel and Judah. We find the story of Asa in 1 Kings 15, starting in verse 9. We can also find more detail around his reign in 2 Chronicles 14. According to these accounts, the land of Judah experiences peace for 10 years under the reign of Asa. During this time, Asa eradicates anything pagan or idolatrous in the land and they rebuild Judah. Even when an army led by a man named Zerah tries to wage war against him (because of the city’s prosperity, and because Asa calls upon the Lord for help) they win against the Ethiopian army. Asa continues to produce religious reforms, by destroying idols, repairing the altar to God, and removing his evil grandmother from her position of influence over the land. Nevertheless, Asa runs out of steam toward the end of his reign and begins to fall away from the path of righteousness. He stops relying on God and tries to solve the challenges he faces in his own way. Sadly, having started so well, Asa doesn’t turn back to God even when his life depended on it. There is much to learn from King Asa about the legacy we leave from our lives for the future generations.
Books of 1 and 2 Kings are shaped around 4 significant events:
- 967BC David's son Solomon united Israel and began to build the temple
- 931BC nation split in two. 10 nations formed a new kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam (considered a rebel), and Judah was the other kingdom under the Davidic King Rehoboam.
- 722 The nation of Israel (10 northern tribes) were attacked and destroyed by the Assyrians and vanish as a nation at that stage in history.
- The nation of Judah continued until about 587 BC until it was destroyed by the Babylonians and the people were taken in captivity.
So these books written from captivity in Babylon to warn the people against repeating the same sins again.
As we enter Chapter 11 of Kings, we are at the end of Solomon’s life and reign. As king he had sown seeds of self-indulgence and so Solomon ends his life in spiritual rebellion, under the judgement of God, with his kingdom beginning to unravel. His failure will haunt the nation for the rest of it’s history.
We look at the first 2 Kings – Rehoboam Southern tribes – Judah) and Jeroboam Northern tribes – Israel. Rehoboam did not listen to the people or to God. This was the essence of his foolishness. Rehoboam ended his rule after 17 years leaving a legacy of conflict and decline. Jeroboam established his authority as King of the Northern Tribes (Israel). Jeroboam had an amazing promise from God, and it was fulfilled in him being appointed King of Israel. This was by God’s grace not through any political manoeuvrings. Jeroboam would rather trust his own instincts than the word of God, even though he had witnessed the power of God with his own eyes! Jeroboam reigned for 22 years.
As we move into these last 5 chapters of Romans, the Theology that Paul has presented in Romans Chapter 1- 11, is what informs the actions we see Paul speak to now in Chapters 12-16. This is where Paul demonstrates that Doctrine is not separate from practical Christianity. Rather it is the force behind it. In light of what God has done, here is how we should live.
Chapter 12:1-2 – Personal sacrifice. Chapter 12:3-8 – Sacrifice in the Church. Chapter 12:9-21 – Sacrifice in Relationships. Chapter 13: 1-14 – Understanding the times in which we live. Chapter 13:8-10 – Understanding leads to love for one another. Chapter 13:11-14 – Understanding leads to pleasing God. Chapter 14 - Unity in the church. Unity is more important than agreement on nonessential matters in the Christian life. Unity reveals LOVE as this is the only things that can bring together people who differ.
Chapter 15 - We see Paul as a builder of the church, servant of the church, shepherd of the church, and Apostle of the church.
Romans Chapters 9-11 In this episode Matt and Stu will discuss:
- The Gospel and the Intersection between Responsibility (Human) & Sovereignty God (9:1-5)
- Gospel has always been based on election. (9:6-13)
- Gospel has always been based on Justice and Mercy (9:14-18)
- Gospel has always been based on God’s Sovereignty. (9: 19-29)
- The Pursuit of Righteousness based on merit. (9:30 – 10:4)
As we move into Chapter 11, we see Paul shift from, what might seem a discouraging assessment of the Israel’s past and present spiritual life – to a amazingly positive assessment about Israel’s future – all Israel will be saved!
- Paul (New Testament) and the remnant of Israel (Old Testament) shows that God has NOT rejected his people. (11:1-10)
- God has delivered the Gospels to the Gentiles. (11:11-22)
- Praise is the natural response to God’s merciful plans for the salvation of the human race. (11:33-36)
God is willing to harden the heart of those who are disobedient to his revelation - equally - God is willing to create conditions that motivate the wayward person to desire him.
- Life in the Spirit makes us able to understand and endure suffering in our current context.
- Paul’s analysis of the present suffering and our future glory makes it clear that these cannot be compared to each other.
- All of creation is awaiting and anticipating this coming glory. We also groan and wait with perseverance for the coming glory.
- God’s help through the Spirit is available to us now.
- God’s help is an enduring promise; He has the ability to work all things for good and to see us through to the end of this age.
- The triumphant victory of life in the Spirit. We can know our future. We have the ‘verdict’ now. We can be certain of our salvation in Christ.
- The evidence that God is for us is the gift of Jesus Christ.
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
In this episode Matt takes us through the first part of Chapter 8 – vs 1-17.
Paul’s letter to the Romans can be divided into three major parts: a presentation of the gospel (chapters 1-8), the place of Israel in God’s plan (chapters 9-11) and exhortations for Christian living (chapters 12-15). Chapter 8 comes near the end of Paul’s explanation of the gospel. It is the climax, and the truths that Paul shares here are so significant - No condemnation! / Life in the Spirit / Our response.
When our lives are placed in Christ, then we share in his life, both the good and the bad. We share in his sufferings, in his death, in his righteousness and in his resurrection. As God’s children, we are co-heirs with Christ, sharing in who he is and what he has done.
We continue in the book of Romans working through Chapters 4-6.
We cover: • The grace we receive because of God’s just faithfulness • Adams sin and how it resulted in us all being guilty before God • How the law showed (and shows) us the nature of sin more clearly • The difference between Adam and Jesus • God’s grace • How we can be set free from the hold of sin
Romans 5:18-19 The result of one man’s sin was that everyone became guilty. So the result of one righteous act is that everyone can become righteous. And everyone can receive eternal life. Many people became sinners because one man did not obey God. So many will become righteous by the one man who obeyed God.
The book of Romans is the longest of the Apostle Paul's letters and is regarded by many people as his greatest. Romans contains Paul’s most complete explanation of the doctrine of justification by faith in Jesus Christ rather than by the law of Moses. Romans was most likely written while he was in Corinth on his third missionary journey, in A.D. 57 In this episode we cover:
- The Gospel as the Revelation of God’s Righteousness
- God’s Righteousness in His Wrath against Sinners
- The Saving Righteousness of God
This week, Matt takes a look at 1st Kings as we close out the reign of David and he hands on the throne of Israel to Solomon his son. In this episode we cover a lot of ground but focus on: Solomon building the temple . . . and also his palace. Through this time, David’s son Solomon, leads Israel to greatness and to a period of peace and prosperity. But, because he didn't obey God and got drawn away from the ways of God - even to the point of idol worship - he ends up leading Israel to a civil war and ultimately towards destruction and exile.
This week, Matt takes a look at 2nd Samuel as we pick up again our journey through the books of 1 & 2 Samuel.
In this episode we cover a lot of ground but focus on: David's lament over the death of Saul, his crowning as King and then his triumphs as he takes back Jerusalem and reigns over all Israel. This is where the new dynasty begins and (in Chapter 7) we see the Davidic covenant, where God promises an everlasting Kingdom through the line of David.
We also cover David's significant short-comings and sin. The denunciation from Nathan, and then the ongoing consequences of his sin throughout his family.
Blessings or consequences follow every action, and this is clearly demonstrated here throughout 2nd Samuel.
The Complete C S Lewis Signature Classics (7 Volume Set) – ThriveToday Offer ONLY AVAILABLE TO SHIP WITHIN AUSTRALIA A beautiful compilation of inspirational writings, featuring seven classic works in one box set. The box set includes:
- ‘Mere Christianity’
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- ‘Surprised by Joy’
- ‘The Four Loves’
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- ‘The Great Divorce’
- ‘Miracles’
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1st Samuel Chapters 15 - 22: We see Israel's first king Saul slowly decend into a dark madness, while similtaneously we see a young annointed shepherd slowly start his journey to the throne. In chapter 15 the Lord eejects Saul and Samuel executes King Agag. Chapter 16 Samuel anoints David as the next king. 1st Samuel chapter 17 has to be one of the most famous chapters in the Old Testament: David kills Goliath. In chapters 18 to 20 we see the complicated relationships between Saul's children and David. David runs from King Saul in chapter 21 and then finally in chapter 22 Saul hits an all time low in the slaughter of the Priests.
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We continue through 1st Samuel: Chapter 8: Israel Requests a King & Samuel Warns against a Kingdom. Chapter 9: Saul Meets Samuel. Chapter 10: Samuel Anoints Saul as King, Samuel’s Signs Are Fulfilled & Saul Is Acclaimed King. Chapter 11: Saul Defeats the Ammonites. Chapter 12: Samuel’s Farewell Address. Chapter 13: Continued War with Philistia, Saul’s Disobedience and Samuel’s Rebuke & Israel’s Military Disadvantage. Chapter 14: Jonathan’s Daring Plan, Israel Defeats the Philistines, Saul’s Foolish Oath & Saul’s Military Successes.
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The book of 1st Samuel! Samuel the priest prophet and final judge - roughly 1100BC -1000BC The books of 1st and 2nd Samuel are not chronological. Themes of Samuel: 1} Davidic Covenant - Anointed king 2} God is in control 3} Power of the Holy Spirit 4} Sin & Consequences
Also watch out for contrasts and comparisons of people and tribes....
As usual we recommend The Bible Project's short video overview of the book: https://youtu.be/QJOju5Dw0V0
Chapter 1 Elkanah the Levite and His Family Hannah & Peninnah Hannah’s Prayer for a Son Samuel’s Birth and Dedication
Chapter 2 Hannah’s Prayer of Praise Eli’s Wicked Sons A Warning for Eli’s Family
Chapter 3 The Lord Speaks to Samuel Samuel Speaks for the Lord
Chapter 4 The Philistines Capture the Ark The Death of Eli
Chapter 5 The Ark in Philistia
Chapter 6 The Philistines Return the Ark The Ark Moved to Kiriath-Jearim
Chapter 7 Samuel Leads Israel to Victory
RUTH! A great overview by The Bible Project https://youtu.be/0h1eoBeR4Jk
The 8th book of the Old Testament, during the time of the Judges. 1300 to 1200 BC Ruth is a "Moabitess" - what does that mean? Moab and Ammon were born to Lot and Lot's elder and younger daughters, respectively, in the aftermath of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The Bible refers to both the Moabites and Ammonites as Lot's sons, born of incest with his daughters (Genesis 19:37–38).
Balak & Balaam Numbers 22 - 25
Deuteronomy 23:3 Those Excluded from the Assembly “No Ammonite or Moabite may enter the assembly of the Lord. Even to the tenth generation, none of them may enter the assembly of the Lord forever...
The book of Zephaniah states that Moab would become "a permanent desolation".
Besides Ruth we have the following characters: NAOMI the Israelite widow BOAZ the Israelite Kinsman redeemer - "Man of Noble Character" Boaz is the son of Salmon and Rahab. Ruth and Boaz have Obed. Obed has Jesse. Jesse has King David - the great grandson of Ruth!
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Hang on to your hats and grab a thermos! We have a longer than usual episode this fortnight! Matthew and DJ go through the book of Judges covering the major "judges": Gideon, Jephthah and Samson, before finally covering the dark post judges period at the end of the book.
Remember we cannot keep making these podcasts without your generous support! 1} Pray! Pray for God's blessing and direction. 2} Share! Please share your favourite episodes with someone who would be encouraged. 3} Give! Head over to our SUPPORT page and become a monthly supporter Along with helping us keep your favourite podcasts "on the air" you will also be invited to our exclusive private Facebook Supporters Group.
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JUDGES! The 7th book of Old Testament - 21 chapters. Covers around 350 years: 1380BC to around 1050BC Scholars don't know who the authors or who compiled the book. The Hebrew word JUDGE - “SHOPHET”.
Judges 21:25 " In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit."
Remember we cannot keep making these podcasts without your generous support! 1} Pray! Pray for God's blessing and direction. 2} Share! Please share your favourite episodes with someone who would be encouraged. 3} Give! Head over to our SUPPORT page and become a monthly supporter Along with helping us keep your favourite podcasts "on the air" you will also be invited to our exclusive private Facebook Supporters Group.
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JOSHUA!
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Joshua or Yehoshua (1355-1245 BC) functioned as Moses' assistant in the books of Exodus and Numbers, and later succeeded Moses as leader of the Israelite tribes in the Hebrew Bible's Book of Joshua. His name was Hoshea (הוֹשֵׁעַ Hōšēaʿ) the son of Nun, of the tribe of Ephraim, but Moses called him "Joshua", the name by which he is commonly known in English.
Chapter 1 The Lord’s Charge to Joshua. Joshua’s Charge to the Israelites. Chapter 2 Rahab Protects the Spies. Chapter 3 The Israelites Cross the Jordan. Chapter 4 Memorials to the Jordan Crossing. Chapter 5 Israel Reestablishes Covenant Ceremonies. The Lord’s Commander Confronts Joshua. Chapter 6 The Fall of Jericho. Salvation of Rahab and her relatives.
Remember we cannot keep making these podcasts without your generous support! 1} Pray! Pray for God's blessing and direction. 2} Share! Please share your favourite episodes with someone who would be encouraged. 3} Give! Head over to our SUPPORT page and become a monthly supporter Along with helping us keep your favourite podcasts "on the air" you will also be invited to our exclusive private Facebook Supporters Group.
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Remember we cannot keep making these podcasts with your generious support! 1} Pray! Pray for God's blessing and direction. 2} Share! please share your favourite episodes with someone who would be encouraged. 3} Give! Head over to our SUPPORT page and become a monthly supporter, besides the tangible benefit of keeping your favourite podcasts "on the air" you will also be invited to our exclusive private Facebook Supporters Group. Yay!
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ACTS 21 Paul’s Journey to Jerusalem Paul Arrives at Jerusalem Paul Is Arrested Paul Speaks to the Crowd . . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 22 Paul’s testimony Paul Reveals His Roman Citizenship Paul before the High Council . . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 23 Paul Slapped! The Plan to Kill Paul Paul Is Sent to Caesarea . . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 24 Paul Appears before Felix {gives his life background} . . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 25 Paul Appears before Festus Paul Speaks to Agrippa . . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 26 Testimony before Agrippa . . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 27 Paul Sails for Rome The Storm at Sea The Shipwreck . . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 28 Paul on the Island of Malta Paul Arrives at Rome Paul Preaches at Rome under Guard
THE END????
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THE BOOK OF ACTS - part 5 of 6.
Paul and Barnabas Separate
. . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 16 Paul’s Second Missionary Journey A Call from Macedonia Lydia of Philippi Believes in Jesus Paul and Silas in Prison
. . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 17 Paul Preaches in Thessalonica Paul and Silas in Berea Paul Preaches in Athens
. . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 18 Paul Meets Priscilla and Aquila in Corinth Paul Returns to Antioch of Syria Apollos Instructed at Ephesus
. . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 19 Paul’s Third Missionary Journey Paul Ministers in Ephesus The Riot in Ephesus
. . . . . . . . . . . ACTS 20 Paul Goes to Macedonia and Greece Paul’s Final Visit to Troas Paul Meets the Ephesian Elders
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Acts 12 James Is Killed and Peter Is Imprisoned Peter’s Miraculous Escape from Prison The Death of Herod Agrippa
Acts 13 Barnabas and Saul Are Commissioned Paul’s First Missionary Journey Paul Preaches in Antioch of Pisidia Paul Turns to the Gentiles
Acts 14 Paul and Barnabas in Iconium Paul and Barnabas in Lystra and Derbe Paul and Barnabas Return to Antioch of Syria
Acts 15 The Council at Jerusalem The Letter for Gentile Believers
This fortnight Matthew and DJ go through three very important chapters of ACTS- plus they get a question from YOU! "In Acts 8 - Were they converted already? Is receiving the Holy Spirit an experiential thing? Don't we automatically receive the Spirit when we believe? So how to interpret this?" ACTS 8: Persecution Scatters the Believers Philip Preaches in Samaria Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch ACTS 9: Saul’s Conversion Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Dorcas ACTS 10: Cornelius Calls for Peter Peter Visits Cornelius The Gentiles Hear the Good News The Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit . Please visit is at www,ThriveToday.tv
The Acts of the Apostles chapters 3 to 7. ACTS 3: Peter & John Heals a Crippled Beggar & Peter Preaches in the Temple. ACTS 4: Peter and John before the Council, The Believers Pray for Courage & The Believers Share Their Possessions. ACTS 5: Ananias and Sapphira, The Apostles Heal Many & Meet Opposition. ACTS 6: Seven Men Chosen to Serve, Stephen Is Arrested ACTS 7: Stephen Addresses the Council & is thh First Martyr.
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Hold on to your hats! We jump ahead from the time of Moses to the birth of the Church in book of Acts. We cover the first two chapters of Acts The Promise of the Holy Spirit The Ascension of Jesus The Holy Spirit Comes Peter Preaches to the Crowd These New Jewish Believers Form a New Community
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The first five books of the Old Testament are also called:
- The books of Moses
- The Pentateuch
- TheTorah
- The Law
and today we finish the books of Moses!
Make sure you subscribe to Thrive Perspectives and suppoert our guest Bernie Power.
Deuteronomy! The final stage of the life of Moses. The final part of the "TORAH" or the "Pentateuch". We have been loving LISTENING to the AUDIO version of this book: Matthew recommends The Complete NIV Audio Bible: Read by David Suchet. DJ recommends the app {for both Android and Apple} Dwell. https://dwellapp.io/
To get in contact with the Thrive team please head to www.thrivetoday.tv
On this fortnights episode Matthew and DJ hurtle through the final 20 or so chapters of Numbers!
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The book of Numbers! The 4th book of Moses' 5 books. As per usual, we appreciate the work of The Bible Project and their video overview: https://youtu.be/zebxH-5o-SQ
Make sure you become a supporter of THRIVE by March 26th to join in on our first LIVE Q and A session! https://thrivetoday.tv/
Mark your calendar: Friday March 26th {probably in the middle of the day} Matthew and DJ will be doing a LIVE Q and A with everyone who is a current SUPPORTER of Thrive. Please consider becoming a financial supporter today: https://5iveonline.com/product/thrive-today-podcast-crowd-support/
Leviticus Part 3: Laws and rules on Blood, Sexuality, Slavery, Land, Holiness. The seven festivals for the Israelites.
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The book of Leviticus 10 to 16: The Sin of Nadab and Abihu. Instructions for Priestly Conduct Ceremonially Clean and Unclean: animals, skin diseases, bodily discharges, birth and sex. The Day of Atonement
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We begin a three episode run on Leviticus - the central book in the first five books of Moses in the beginning of the Old Testament.
In particular we look at the FIVE types of sacrifices the Isralites were to make to be right with God.
- The Burnt / Attonemnet Offering
- The Grain / Meal Offering
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- The Peace / Fellowship Offering
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- The Sin / Purification Offering
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- The Trespass / Guilt Offering
If you want to go into a little bit of a summary - with a cool old school bible chart you can look here.
If you want to go into a LOT more depth and read an amazing series on the offerings you can go to this amazing resource here.
We also recommend taking a few minutes and looking at the TWO videos The Bible Project have made on youtube: The original old school overview: https://youtu.be/IJ-FekWUZzE
and the new-er modern themed version overview: https://youtu.be/WmvyrLXoQio
HANG ON TO YOUR SEATS! This episode covers the final SIX chapters of the Gospel of Luke, and Matthew and DJ deliver a longer than usual episode as they wrap it all up. Our home online - https://thrivetoday.tv Please take a moment and financially support Thrive!
LUKE: 19 Jesus and Zacchaeus Parable of the Ten Servants Jesus’ Triumphant Entry Jesus Weeps over Jerusalem Jesus Clears the Temple
20 The Authority of Jesus Challenged Parable of the Evil Farmers Taxes for Caesar Discussion about Resurrection Whose Son Is the Messiah?
21 The Widow’s Offering Jesus' prophecy about the destruction of Jerusalem
22 Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus The Last Supper Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial Jesus Prays on the Mount of Olives Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested Peter Denies Jesus Jesus before the Council
23 Jesus’ Trial before Pilate & Herod The Crucifixion The Death of Jesus The Burial of Jesus
24 The Resurrection The Walk to Emmaus Jesus Appears to the Disciples The Ascension
The Gospel of Luke - Chapters 15 to 18 cover:
- The Parable of the Lost Sheep
- The Parable of the Lost Coin
- The Parable of the Lost Son
- The Parable of the Dishonest Manager
- The Rich Man and Lazarus
- Warnings from Jesus
- Ten Men Healed
- The Coming of the Kingdom
- The Parable of the Persistent Widow
- The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
- Blessing the Children
- The Rich Young Ruler
- Possessions and the Kingdom
- The Third Prediction of His Death
- A Blind Man Receives His Sight
DJ highly recommends the novel - "Book of God: The Bible as a Novel -1998 - by Walter Wangerin https://www.amazon.com.au/Book-God-Bible-As-Novel/dp/0310220211
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Merry Christmas and Season Greetings! For this our final episode for 2020 Matthew and DJ Paine cover Jesus' public ministry in Luke chapters 12 to 14. www.thrivetoday.tv
Sons of Korah {the band of Matthew Jacoby} has an incredible new app! visit www.sonsofkorah.com today and download it!
This fortnight Matthew Jacoby and DJ Paine fly through five dense chpaters of the gospel of Luke. Luke Chapter 7 The Faith of a Roman Officer. Jesus Raises a Widow’s Son. Jesus and John the Baptist. Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman. ... Luke Chapter 8 Women Who Followed Jesus. Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed. Parable of the Lamp. The True Family of Jesus. Jesus Calms the Storm. Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Man. Jesus Heals in Response to Faith. ... Luke Chapter 9 Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples. Herod’s Confusion. Jesus Feeds Five Thousand. Peter’s Declaration about Jesus. Jesus Predicts His Death. The Transfiguration. Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy. The Cost of Following Jesus . ... Luke Chapter 10 Jesus Sends Out The 72. Jesus’ Prayer of Thanksgiving. The Most Important Commandment. Parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus Visits Martha and Mary. ... Luke Chapter 11 Teaching about Prayer. Jesus and the Prince of Demons. The Sign of Jonah. Receiving the Light. Jesus Criticizes the Religious Leaders. ...
DON'T FORGET TO DOWNLOAD THE SONS OF KORAH APP! - www.SonsOfKorah.com
The Gospel of LUKE - this is the second episode that our guides Matthew Jacoby and DJ Paine are taking us through this amazing book. This week we look at the early public minsitry of Jesus:
- The overlap of John the Baptist's ministry and Jesus's.
- The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness.
- Jesus' rejection in his home town.
- The acceptance of His ministry in the Galilee region.
- The first disciples and many miracles.
- The calling of the 12 Apostles
- The rejection of the religious leaders.
It's a crammed episode! So grab your bibles and your copy of THRIVE!
www.thrivetoday.tv
The Gospel of LUKE - the only Gospel written by a Gentile.... If you were to judge book length based on the number of chapters, you'd walk away thinking that Matthew and Acts are longer than Luke. After all, they both have 28 chapters and Luke's Gospel only contains 24. But with a word count of 19,482, Luke's is actually the longest. Acts has 18,450 Greek words, while Matthew's contains 18,346. In fact, even though Paul wrote the most books in the New Testament (13) followed by John (5), Luke is actually the New Testament's most prolific author by sheer volume.
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The Song of Songs - otherwise known as the Song of Solomon. The Bible Project's Overview: Song of Songs https://youtu.be/4KC7xE4fgOw
The history and influence of the book here on wikipedia.
Matthew mentions the work of Old Testament scholar Iain Provan
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Matthew and DJ conclude their look into the book of Ecclesiastes - will they find meaning and purpose in the middle of the smoke and vapour?
Matthew recommends - https://www.bestcommentaries.com/
We also like - as a basic overview - the two Bible Project videos on Ecclesiastes: https://youtu.be/lrsQ1tc-2wk https://youtu.be/VeUiuSK81-0
We also recommend listening to the Thrive Perspectives episodes with Dr Clay Jones - Part one is here and Part two is here - about Death and Immortality.
Head over to our website for all the ways to contact us and also to support what we do https://thrivetoday.tv/
Ready for a really personal episode of your favourite Bible podcast? Because as Matthew and DJ get into the book of Ecclesiastes some very "existential" thoughts and feelings bubble up.... which is pretty much exactly where the Book of Ecclesiastes wants to put you.
We recommend listening to the Thrive Perspectives episodes with Dr Clay Jones - Part one is here - about Death and Immortality.
Head over to our website for all the ways to contact us and also to support what we do https://thrivetoday.tv/
Our third and final part {for now} of a three part series on the book of JOB.
We recieved such a great "question" from a wonderful listener Meg that we decided to use it as the frame for the first half of the episode. Meg writes in part: "The entire premise of Job occurs because God and Satan basically had a bet going about how righteous Job was and how much crap they could throw at him to test this out. Like some sick experiment. It seems to me that not only was it senseless suffering, which is hard enough to deal with on its own, but feels like it was even encouraged by God. .... And then when Job finally gets to ask God why (and honestly sometimes it doesn’t even matter why, it’s an expression of angst) he basically gets told off by God and his pitiful insignificance pointed out by the Loving Just Father who was basically the cause of it all in the first place. How was any of it just? God didn’t need to prove Job’s faithfulness to Satan. He’s God for crying out loud! I’ve just always struggled with the notion of who God appears to be in Job, it seems to be in complete conflict with a God that apparently loved the world so much he sent his only son to die for it.... And it just all makes me wonder if all the suffering we all go through in our lives is actually just God playing games with his children that ‘he so loves’ and maybe what I’ve been taught my whole life about God through the bible and church and my own apparent relationship with him is wrong. It’s the first thing you learn as a kid: God loves you. And yet he didn’t really love Job all that much to treat him like that...It was cruel..."
Our very own DJ has prepared a simple Book of Job outline - you can download the PDF here.
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the book of JOB - Part 2. Chapters 3 to 37!
Download the overview here.
www.ThriveToday.TV
Our 1st part of a three part series on the book of JOB.
A lot of people have BIG questions about the book of Job! - if you have any questions please ask them here!
Our very own DJ has prepared a simple Book of Job outline - you can download the PDF here.
The Bible Project team have two very good videos on Job. The 1st is their book overview: https://youtu.be/xQwnH8th_fs The 2nd is the book of Job as "Wisdom Literature": https://youtu.be/GswSg2ohqmA
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On this episode DJ and Matt finish the Bible! ....well sort of! Our intrepid readers finish the last two chapters of Revelation, the last book in the Bible.
Please consider becoming a THRIVE ministry partner - support this ministry for just a few dollars a month - you can do that here.
We are also heading into a new edition of the Thrive daily reading guide - you can purchase your own copy here.
EPISODE 100! We started this podcast on July 9th 2018... two years later and 100 episodes in, we decided to celebrate this milestone with a "LIVE VIDEO"! You can watch it here: https://youtu.be/00URco45Hl0
We answer a few of YOUR questions and then head into Revelation chapters 19 and 20!
Make sure you check out the all new www.ThriveToday.TV - we now have an exciting way that YOU can support us financially in our ministry. You will see that and some great looking new pictures.
Episode 99! There were THREE major hurdles that our two podcasters had to leap over on this episode: Could they get through FIVE - 5! chapters of the book of Revelation?? Could they record an entire episode in a studio that was about 9 degrees celcius? And could they do an episode LIVE - unedited - like a radio show? ... well let us know what you think?
Chapters & Topics: Revelation 14-TheLamb and the 144,000 / The Three Angels / The Harvest of the Earth Revelation 15 & 16-The Song of Moses and of the Lamb / The Seven Bowls of the Seven Plagues Revelation 17-The Great Prostitute Revelation 18-The Fall of Babylon
We dive deeper into the book of Revelation! HOLD ON BECAUSE THIS IS A WILD RIDE! Chapters 6 to 9 The Lamb Breaks the First Six Seals. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. God’s People Will Be Preserved. Praise from the Great Crowd. The Lamb Breaks the Seventh Seal. The First Four Trumpets. The Fifth Trumpet Brings the First Terror. The Sixth Trumpet Brings the Second Terror.
Revelation chapters 3 to 5. The Seven letters to the churches. The Message to the Church in Laodicea. Worship in Heaven. The Lamb Opens the Scroll.
Make sure you subscribe to Thrive: Perspectives. CLICK: https://plinkhq.com/i/1499079973?to=page
Are you ready for the book of "THE REVELATION OF JESUS"?
on episode 95 we go back to 95AD and the apostle John!
https://youtu.be/5nvVVcYD-0w
We finish the book of Exodus. Introduced to Joshua. Moses and Aaron and the Golden calf.
On this episode Matthew and DJ answer YOUR questions. You can ask them here: https://www.thrivetoday.tv/contact/
And they cover Moral Law and Civil Law in the last half of the book of Exodus.
Exodus 20 The Ten Commandments
And God spoke all these words:
2 “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
3 “You shall have no other gods before me.
4 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.
7 “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
8 “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
12 “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.
13 “You shall not murder.
14 “You shall not commit adultery.
15 “You shall not steal.
16 “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
17 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”
Exodus chapter 13 to chapter 19
Dedication of the Firstborn The Egyptians Pursue Israel Escape through the Red Sea The FIRST recorded song in the Bible: A Song of Deliverance Bitter Water at Marah Manna and Quail from Heaven Water from the Rock Israel Defeats the Amalekites Jethro’s Visit to Moses and his Wise Advice. The Lord Reveals Himself at Sinai....
The 10 Plagues of Egypt & The Passover https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plagues_of_Egypt
- Water to Blood: Ex. 7:14–24
- Frogs: Ex. 7:25–8:15
- Lice or gnats: Ex. 8:16-19
- Wild animals or flies: Ex. 8:20-32
- Pestilence of livestock: Ex. 9:1–7
- Boils: Ex. 9:8–12
- Thunderstorm of hail and fire: Ex. 9:13–35
- Locusts: Ex. 10:1–20
- Darkness for three days: Ex. 10:21–29
- Death of firstborn: Ex. 11:1–12:36
Exodus 4 - 7 Moses Returns to Egypt Moses and Aaron Speak to Pharaoh Making Bricks without Straw The LORD's Promises of Deliverance Aaron’s Staff Becomes a Serpent
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We begin EXODUS! Here is the Bible Project's great video on the beginning of Exodus: https://youtu.be/jH_aojNJM3EWe
LOVE YOUR questions! You can send them to us directly at http://www.thrivetoday.net.au/
ANDY sent us his note: "First of all I have to say that I'm really happy with the way the podcast is going. It continues to be a fantastic source of insight and inspiration for me. Just a minor question: I'm always a little surprised that Potiphar sent Joseph to prison because I would have thought that he would have had the power to have Joseph killed. Is this an example of the Lord's protection of Joseph through Potiphar really liking Joseph too much to see him dead? Cheers and blessya all Andy"
Also head over to http://www.thrivetoday.net.au/ and use the code "THRIVETODAY" to get $10 off your subscription!SEE YOU IN A FORTNIGHT!
All good things must come to an end... and this week Thrive: Deeper finishes the book of Genesis. Matthew and DJ cover the last three chapters:
Genesis 48 Jacob Blesses Manasseh and Ephraim
Genesis 49 Jacob’s Last Words to His Sons Jacob’s Death and Burial
Genesis 50 Joseph Reassures His Brothers The Death of Joseph
Also don't forget the special coupon code "thrivetoday" to get 50% your Thrive daily reading guide subsciption!
Grab the tissues! This one is an emotional roller coaster!
Genesis 42 Joseph’s Brothers Go to Egypt
Genesis 43 The Brothers Return to Egypt A Feast at Joseph’s Palace
Genesis 44 Joseph’s Silver Cup Judah Speaks for His Brothers
Genesis 45 Joseph Reveals His Identity Pharaoh Invites Jacob to Egypt
Genesis 46 Jacob’s Journey to Egypt Jacob’s Family Arrives in Goshen
Genesis 47 Jacob Blesses Pharaoh Joseph’s Leadership in the Famine
We try to cover some of your Genesis questions this week!
From Jack S: ...regarding Jacob and whom he shall marry... he cannot marry the Canaanite women as the children/offspring would then not be Jewish. The Jewishness comes from the mother and the name/family comes from the father. If a non-jewish man marries a Jewish woman, the children will be Jewishand conversely if a jewish man marries a non-Jewish woman the children are non Jewish. still to this day.
From Benjamin: Man's days will be 120 years. In listening to the podcast it sounds that this has been understood as shortening the maximum lifespan of people. (This comes across clearly in the NLT translation). I used to understand it that way However other translations like ESV are less clear and it seems more likely in context to be meaning 120 years until the flood comes?
3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit will not put up with humans for such a long time, for they are only mortal flesh. In the future, their normal lifespan will be no more than 120 years." NLT
3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years.” ESV
From Natalie B: I want to say how profound the space (thrive deeper podcast) is providing for me. You bring such honest knowledge, both studied and personal, with humility and kindness. Building faith in Jesus and expanding my understandings, my questioning. Bringing clarity of heart and mind. Thank you.
From Corey Sleap: Abrahams faith in the God that resurrects made him righteous. see Romans 4:17 As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.” He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed—the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not. | New International Version (NIV)
Who was resurrected between adam and Abraham? What example of resurrection is Abrahams faith based on?
A brand new year and a brand new recording set up!
We continue through Genesis and we are introduced to JOSEPH.
Genesis 35: Jacob’s Return to Bethel The Deaths of Rachel and Isaac
Genesis 36: Descendants of Esau & the Rulers of Edom.
Genesis 37: Joseph’s Dreams & Being Sold into Slavery
Genesis 38: Judah and Tamar
Genesis 39: Joseph in Potiphar’s House & Joseph Put in Prison
Genesis 40: Joseph Interprets Two Dreams
Happy New Year! 2020! Matthew and DJ continue through Genesis this week covering chapters 32 to 34.
Genesis 32: Jacob Sends Gifts to Esau Jacob Wrestles with God
Genesis 33: Jacob and Esau Make Peace
Genesis 34: Revenge against Shechem {Simeon and Levi avenge their sister Dinah}
Matthew and DJ finish up 2019 by looking at Genesis 28 to 31. The boys start off the show by looking at end of year / new year traditions and then move seemlessly into the lives of Jacob and his family.
This week, Matthew and DJ trek through Genesis chapters 23 to 27!
Genesis 23 The Burial of Sarah
Genesis 24 A Wife for Isaac
Genesis 25 The Death of Abraham The Birth of Esau and Jacob
Genesis 26 Isaac Deceives Abimelech Isaac's Covenant with Abimelech
Genesis 27 JAcob Steals Esau's Blessing from Isaac
This week, Matthew and DJ absolutely fly through Genesis chapters 18 to 22. GENESIS 18 THE VISITORS Son Is Promised to Sarah Abraham Intercedes for Sodom
GENESIS 19 Sodom and Gomorrah Destroyed Lot and His Daughters
GENESIS 20 Abraham Deceives Abimelech
GENESIS 21 The Birth of Isaac Hagar and Ishmael Are Sent Away Abraham’s Covenant with Abimelech
GENESIS 22 Abraham’s Faith Tested
NOTE: Matthew notes the book by Søren Kierkegaard: "Fear and Trembling"
Rembrandt "Abraham and Isaac" 1634
Questions: from the thriving facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thrivedeeper/
Kellyanne C. "Catching up on podcasts from a few weeks back. Matt’s sermons on Genesis say we are created in God’s image and this alludes to us being God’s children. I’m confused- are all human beings God’s children? Or only those who come to faith in Christ? Why would the New Testament say we (believers) have been adopted into God’s family if we already belonged to God’s family?"
Cheryne B. "What is light? It was created before the sun so it isn't really physical light. In the past when I read 1st John - I assumed that light is God, but if God created light then it isn't God is it? What is it exactly? Like I understand what it is to live in the light and what it is to live in darkness, but it is something God created and it kind of puzzled me a bit."
Kristi B. "Did Adam and eve ever eat from the tree of life? Genesis 2:9 and Genesis 3:22"
Meg T. "A) were we, in fact, actually made flawed? We had a choice to eat from the wrong tree or not, and we were so weak that on first temptation we folded and gave in to the temptation. So were we made flawed? Weak? God knew we were going to do it, why? Did we ever stand a chance or did we always have evil in us? How can something God made be inherently evil from the very Beginning? In that case, what is the point of anything? B ) would anything have happened differently if Adam and Eve had if owned up to God the instant they sinned? Or would things have still unfolded the same way because man was so weak and hid?"
And an announcement that we will be starting a new podcast in 2020 "Thrive: Topics"!
Genesis 9 right through to Genesis 15.
From after the flood to the tower of Babel to the introduction of God's covenant with Abram and Sarai.
With a special mention of Melchizedek.
This week, Matthew Jacoby and DJ Paine head into Genesis chapters two and three.
The themes of Order and Chaos keep re-occuring.
Matthew is back from Europe and talked about his highlight of Sacred Convent of St. Francis in Assisi
and the moving art of Giotto di Bondone
Matthew Jacoby is BACK after his European trip and we jump back behind the microphones and get into GENESIS!
https://youtu.be/GQI72THyO5I
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https://youtu.be/6UoCmakZmys The Bible Project's overview of JUDE.
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Thrive: Deeper on 1st John.
DJ talks about his upcoming trip to the SPARC conference. https://youtu.be/uQe6dvg8woI
The Bible Project's overview video on the letters of John, which breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. https://youtu.be/l3QkE6nKylM
Matthew mentions "The Hidden Face of God: Science Reveals the Ultimate Truth" by Schroeder Ph.D., Gerald L.
Our two intrepid explorers dive into 2nd Peter. The show ends very differently as DJ talks about a song that he loves.... {with lyrics from Peter} Chalie Peacock The song DJ quotes is "Dear Friend" from 1989's The Secret Of Time album. We highly recommend you dig into his albums! https://youtu.be/pOB5ZuLGLnI
Matthew and DJ kick off the episode by talking about some of Matt's favourite international films: The Russian Andrey Zvyagintsev The Austrian Michael Haneke The French Dardenne Brothers. While DJ yet again filters the Bible through movie news. In this case Mel Gibson's Passion of the Christ part 2 and Jesus in Hell?
What some people have called "The Harrowing of Hell"
The book of 1st Peter - Chapters 1 and 2. As always we love the Bible Project's overview: https://youtu.be/WhP7AZQlzCg
We also have a very special offer for Sons Of Korah fans: Go to the Sons of Korah website – www.sonsofkorah.com -and click on SHOP at the top of the page. Then go to the ONLINESTORE. Select the items you want from Sons of Korah, add them to your cart and then proceed to checkout. At checkout you will see where you can enter a DISCOUNT CODE, and this is where you’ll need a pen and paper, the code to enter is thrivetoday50 Once you’ve applied the code, you’ll receive 50% discount off any Sons of Korah items in your cart! A couple of other key things to note – you can only use this coupon once! So make sure you maximise your discount value, AND the offer expires on Friday October 25th 2019
On this week's packed episode we cover the final two chapters of James - one of the most beautiful books in the new testament. But to kick things off DJ surprises Matthew with this podcast's chart positions on iTunes, and then Matthew surprises DJ with a subject completely off our notes - public believers walking away from the Faith - see Joshua Harris and Marty Saampson from Hillsong.
- Special Offer - 50% off ANY purchase of Sons of Korah music from their online store.
You can buy 1 CD or 10 – you’ll get 50% off the total value of your order for Sons of Korah Music. It even applies to downloads! Go to the Sons of Korah website – www.sonsofkorah.com -and click on SHOP at the top of the page. Then go to the ONLINESTORE. Select the items you want from Sons of Korah, add them to your cart and then proceed to checkout. At checkout you will see where you can enter a DISCOUNT CODE, and this is where you’ll need a pen and paper, the code to enter is thrivetoday50 Once you’ve applied the code, you’ll receive 50% discount off any Sons of Korah items in your cart! A couple of other key things to note – you can only use this coupon once! So make sure you maximise your discount value, AND the offer expires on Friday October 25th 2019
At the top of the show DJ talks about the christian actress Shari Rigby - an amazing lady.
The SOns of Korah Special Offer! 50% off ANY purchase of Sons of Korah music from their online store. You can buy 1 CD or 10 – you’ll get 50% off the total value of your order for Sons of Korah Music. It even applies to downloads, if you prefer to download your music – again you will receive 50% discount off 1 download or the entire catalogue. Now this offer is only being promoted through our Thrive Deeper PodCast – to you our valued listeners – anywhere in the world! So, you’re going to need to follow these instructions to take advantage of this offer. Go to the Sons of Korah website – www.sonsofkorah.com -and click on SHOP at the top of the page. Then go to the ONLINESTORE. Select the items you want from Sons of Korah, add them to your cart and then proceed to checkout. At checkout you will see where you can enter a DISCOUNT CODE, and this is where you’ll need a pen and paper, the code to enter is thrivetoday50 Once you’ve applied the code, you’ll receive 50% discount off any Sons of Korah items in your cart! A couple of other key things to note – you can only use this coupon once! So make sure you maximise your discount value, AND the offer expires on Friday October 25th 2019
Matthew and DJ get into the new testament book from Jesus' own half brother James it is about belief & doubt, Listening & doing Faith & favouritiusm
https://youtu.be/qn-hLHWwRYY
We recommmend two brilliant resources:
https://www.streetlightsbible.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCHRlahR6yaGbanFSsUg_Ew https://music.apple.com/au/artist/streetlights-bible/959689207 https://open.spotify.com/artist/6JrmofdhxBatsnpTA10CHB?si=Kq4I8zakQpmkUXVDLTxTOg
https://thebibleproject.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/jointhebibleproject/ https://youtu.be/1fNWTZZwgbs
Herbrews Chapters 5 to 9. See Genesis 14: Melchizedek Blesses Abram 17 After Abram returned from his victory over Kedorlaomer and all his allies, the king of Sodom went out to meet him in the valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley). 18 And Melchizedek, the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High, brought Abram some bread and wine. 19 Melchizedek blessed Abram with this blessing: “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. 20 And blessed be God Most High, who has defeated your enemies for you.” Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of all the goods he had recovered. 21 The king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give back my people who were captured. But you may keep for yourself all the goods you have recovered.” 22 Abram replied to the king of Sodom, “I solemnly swear to the Lord, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, 23 that I will not take so much as a single thread or sandal thong from what belongs to you. Otherwise you might say, ‘I am the one who made Abram rich.’
See Psalm 110 A psalm of David.
1 The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit in the place of honor at my right hand until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet.” 2 The Lord will extend your powerful kingdom from Jerusalem; you will rule over your enemies. 3 When you go to war, your people will serve you willingly. You are arrayed in holy garments, and your strength will be renewed each day like the morning dew. 4 The Lord has taken an oath and will not break his vow: “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.” 5 The Lord stands at your right hand to protect you. He will strike down many kings when his anger erupts. 6 He will punish the nations and fill their lands with corpses; he will shatter heads over the whole earth. 7 But he himself will be refreshed from brooks along the way. He will be victorious.
Matthew recommends the book "Turning Points: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity." by Mark A. Noll. Book. Audiobook.
Matthew and DJ go through the last two chapters of the first gospel we have in our New Testaments.
DJ and Matt sit down and go through Matthew chapter 26: The Plot to Kill Jesus Jesus Anointed at Bethany Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus The Last Supper / PASSOVER Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial Jesus Prays in Gethsemane
"The Cup Of Suffering" - What does this mean? Read Jeremiah 25 : 15 - 29 Read Isaiah 51 : 21 -23
Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested Jesus before the Council Peter Denies Jesus
Matthew Jacoby and DJ Paine move through the Gospel of Matthew. Come and discuss this episode with other listeners over st https://www.facebook.com/ThriveTodayPage/
A brand new year sees us revamp the podcast sound a little bit. What do you think? Send us a message over at www.thrivetoday.net.au
This episode is brought to you by DEEPER PLACES - the book on the Psalms by Matthew Jacoby has a revision and a new video series coming very soon - head over here for more details.
This week on this .... very.... special... episode..... Matthew Jacoby and DJ Paine make their way through the gospel of Matthew chapters 18 and 19. Some hard teaching from Jesus here!
If you have been a part of the show sonce the beginning and listened to all 57 episodes - please contact DJ on any social media - just search for @djpaine and you will find him!
Matthew Jacoby is the teaching pastor at OneHope Baptist Church. You can find the church's sermond podcast here on iTunes. https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/onehope-baptist-church/id1457917039
DJ Paine does breakfast radio every weekday on Geelong's 96three FM. You can stream the show live anywhere in the world! https://www.96three.com.au/96three-online-player/
We begin the episode with a behind the scenes look at the new Deeper Places video series coming very soon! http://www.thrivetoday.net.au/deeper-places-video-resource/
Then into Matthew chapter 14 where we see Jesus retreat from the coming persecution.... for now.....
After a heart felt apology from Matthew about DJ's Midnight Oil medley last week, our boys dive into Matthew chapter 13. Why did Jesus start using the power of the parable?
parable /ˈparəb(ə)l/ noun a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson, as told by Jesus in the Gospels. synonyms: allegory, moral story, moral tale, fable, lesson, exemplum; "the parable of the prodigal son"
We also get a great Søren Kierkegaard quote about being a christian... http://www.cliffordwilliams.net/kierkegaardcrowdchristianity
Matthew and DJ cover the Gospel of Matthew chapters 11 & 12.
Matthew just loves the band Midnight Oil song snippet played" "US Forces" 1982 "Beds Are Burning" 1987 "Blue Sky Mining" 1990 "Power and the Passion" 1983 "Forgetten Years" 1990
In Chapter 11 the boys talk about John the baptist "The Subversion of Our Expectations" Jesus' intimate Prayer
Chapter 12 The Sabbath The Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew and DJ get raw and honest in the exploration of faith and Jesus as they continue through the gospel of Matthew.
As this episode goes LIVE {end of May 2019} his band Sons Of Korah are playing concerts in NSW Australia. If you are around - go see Matt! https://sonsofkorah.com/events/
Matthew and DJ hurtle through the highlights of Matthew chapters 5, 6 and 7: looking at what this Kingdom of Heaven is all about...
'Blessed are the poor in spirit’. Our Lord Christ being to raise an high and stately fabric of blessedness, lays the foundation of it low, in poverty of spirit. But all poverty is not blessed. I shall use a fourfold distinction." - Thomas Watson
https://banneroftruth.org/us/search?s=thomas+watson
This week, [Matthew Jacoby], and [DJ Paine] go through chapters 3 and some of 4 of the Gospel of Matthew.
This week, [Matthew Jacoby], and [DJ Paine] cover the first couple of chapters of the Gospel of Matthew.
This week as Matthew and DJ wrap up the Proverbs topics, they get into the concept of Spiritual Disciplines.... there are lots of various lists and descriptions online and in books - here is a loose list that DJ found:
List of Spiritual Disciplines
- Fasting
- Prayer
- Reading the Bible
- Studying the Bible
- Memorising the Bible
- Meditating on the Bible
- Journaling
- Learning
- Simplicity
- Solitude
- Frugality or Good Stewardship
- Chastity
- Secrecy
- Sacrifice
- Rest and Observing the Lord’s Day
- Submission
- Service
- Applying Scripture
- Giving
- Evangelism or Discipline Making
- Hearing God’s word
- Confession
- Worship
- Spiritual Guidance
- Celebration
- Fellowship
- Accountability
Matthew and DJ start the episode talking about music.
Matthew is loving the endless catalogue of ECM Records. https://www.ecmrecords.com/home https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ECM_Records
DJ is thrilled with the new Kings Kaleidoscope album "ZEAL" https://www.kingskaleidoscope.com/ https://youtu.be/5ldbggv2zaQ
Then our boys get down to business talking honestly about the journey of SELF DISCIPLINE.
And then they tackle YOUR questions on disciplining our children.
Proverbs 13:34 Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.
Proverbs 23 13 Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die. 14 Punish them with the rod and save them from death.
Stick around after the end credits for a film review and some funny outtakes!
We mention The Christian Calendar - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liturgical_year
Personal Conflicts.
Bonus discusion: "Christians Like Us" SBS TV special. Watch it here. Read up on it here.
Proverbs and the "GREY AREAS" of christian living.
one man's liberty is another man's stumbling block.
Matthew and DJ mention these "arty" film makers:
Michael Haneke
Lars von Trier
Andrey Zvyagintsev
On their 43rd episode Matthew and DJ get very conversational about the Proverbs and the Bible's concepts about making decisions and taking responsibility for them.
But first- is DJ bragging on himself on how he surpised his wife Benita for her 40th birthday?
And Nigel Lane has a question about the Psalms being included in the Thrive readins but then left out of the podcast?
Guidance in Proverbs.
Matt and DJ start by talking about a movie they saw: Capernaum https://youtu.be/ULUo0048xZE
Matthew and DJ start by talking about new work brewing for Matt's band Sons Of Korah
Then they look at the questions: "There’s a lot of ‘my child’ / 'my sons' going on. Is this God talking to Solomon or is Solomon talking to someone? If it’s the latter, then who? - Meg Thompson
"Today’s Thrive message being about generosity reminded me that being generous with money is one thing but being generous with your time & none monetary resources is another, and not often commented on. Some of the most generous people I know give of their time & resources. ie they use their home to host people, they transport people in their car to events or medical appointments etc. should we tithe our time & resources? I know of a service club that is known as a cheque book club in that they generous give money but its members are known for not willing to give of their time. Are they generous?" - Chris Maddock
Matthew references the books "The Fourth Industrial Revolution" by KLAUS SCHWAB
"The Future: Six Drivers of Global Change" by Al Gore
This week's podcast is probably one not suitable for the younger kids because as we head into Proverbs, the first few chapters dive right into Sex, Sexuality and right relationships. So Matthew overlays these truths with modern culture's Pornography Addiction.
Matthew references the book "The Porn Myth" from Ignatius Press
We recommend the christian ministry of Triple X Church: https://www.xxxchurch.com/
There is some incredible software for those that want to live free from a Church culture: https://x3watch.com/
And some resources from non-religious organisation: https://fightthenewdrug.org/
An Introduction to the book of PROVERBS.
**NOTE - DJ makes a mistake right at the beginning and introduces this episode as "episode 36" - Sorry! He meant to say Episode 37. Thanks and sorry for any confusion.
What is Wisdom?
https://youtu.be/AzmYV8GNAIM
Part Two of our look at the history in the "Intertestamental Period"
Galatians 4:4-5 (ESV)
"But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons."
We are expanding on "THE FULLNESS OF TIME"
Your Questions and then the trek into the period between the Old and New Testaments.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intertestamental_period
Matthew Jacoby and DJ Paine conclude 2018 by wrapping up Ezra and beginning Nehemiah....
Matthew and DJ have some follow up questions for Esther and then conclude the book of Ezra and his decrees of divorce!
Matthew and DJ race through the roller coaster ride that is the last half of the book of Esther.
Matthew and DJ chat about the season of Christmas before getting into the first few chapters of the book of Esther!
This week Matthew and DJ tackle some of your questions about the book of Zechariah. But before they dive into that, the dynamic duo jump into a discussion about the controversial "THE PASSION TRANSLATION" {TPT} of the Bible...
You can read more about that discussion here:
http://themelios.thegospelcoalition.org/article/burning-scripture-with-passion-a-review-of-the-psalms-passion-translation
https://www.gotquestions.org/Passion-Translation.html
https://thinktheology.co.uk/blog/article/whats_wrong_with_the_passion_translation
This week Matthew and DJ head through the rest of the book of Zechariah. Pull out that Bible and open it up to the book because you want to foillow along!
We also discuss Matthew's upcoming yearly trips to Israel.....
This week Matthew and DJ start out by candidly discussing how DJ has learnt how to speak the language of Matthew Jacoby....
and then pausing in the Ezra narrative to look at two prophets who were speakingh to the Jewish people at that time.... the short Haggai and they begin the longer Zechariah....
Enjoy as our duo pull out the appocalyptic threads and the application we have today.
Ezra 1 to 6.
https://youtu.be/MkETkRv9tG8
Stay listening for some bonus, heartfelt "thinking out loud" about Halloween.
For those who want some bonus reading about Halloween, DJ found this article very interesting: https://calvinistinternational.com/2013/10/30/halloween-creation-recreation/
Bonus! Covering off Titus and Philemon in the last edition. And starting the new edition with an overview of Ezra.
Matthew and DJ follow up on last episode with this question: "What about a woman who God has given the gift of teaching? Should she just ignore this based on what Paul says? I've always struggled with this....." - MEG T.
Then they look through the leadership qualifications from 1 Timothy chapter 3.
A quick look at Paul's thoughts on the last days and what the church will be like in those days.
And then a final wrap up on Paul's last letter before his death - 2 Timothy.
Matthew and DJ present this special episode dedicated to these 8 verses in 1Timothy Chapter 2:
"8 Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing. 9 I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, 10 but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.
11 A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner. 15 But women will be saved through childbearing — if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety."
Finally Matt and DJ are back in the studio!
Questions:
-
During the Thessalonians discussion Matt mentioned how the book was one of Paul early letters (I think he said Galatians might have been first). That got me pondering Paul’s spiritual growth (stay with me here). We are encouraged and exhorted to keep growing and revising our views ("if it’s alive it grows" I think MJ says). I know my views and opinions have changed enormously over my Christian journey. Things that took up a lot of my time (and caused unnecessary anxiety) when I was a young Christian seem irrelevant now. So did Paul’s views change as he matured? Is there clues of this in his letters? If not – why not?
- PAUL S.
-
Reading 1 Thess 2:17-3:13 - just wondering about Paul - her persecution/trials - and he speaks of being destined for them in 3:3. My bible had a cross reference to Acts 9:16 - it got me thinking - and my question is - Is Paul’s persecution - “how he must suffer for my name” ... is it Gods justice - the scales being balanced - Paul (Saul) persecuted the christians and therefore persecuted God (acts 9:4). And then God selects him to be his chosen instrument and therefore suffers for his name. It almost seems like a kind of sowing and reaping,(Gal 6:7) he sows persecution and therefore reaps persecution. And I can see that he also is tremendously blessed after his transformation from Saul to Paul, but it just made me wonder because God is a just God.
-
CHERYNE
-
my question was related to 1 Timothy 1:5 - I was just wondering about what the significance of “heart” is in the bible - why do christians/the bible speak of “pure heart”, matters of the heart etc - some religions talk about 3rd eyes, etc why to do we speak about the heart, I’m assuming it’s not the actual organ in our body. Why is love related to the heart? I’d like to know a bit of background about the word heart as used in the bible please.
-
ANON
-
I’d like some explanation of 1Tim 4:10 “we put our hope in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, especially of those who believe”. This seems to imply that everyone will be saved, especially those who believe! Is this the basis of the (errant) doctrine of Christian Universalism? What does it mean?
-
PAUL S.
-
1 Timothy 5 - does anyone know what vs 23 is all about? It just seems rather random. “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.” Is this a metaphor or is Paul speaking literally?
-
C. BIRD.
Matthew mentions: The Nicene Creed - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicene_Creed and The Athanasian Creed - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athanasian_Creed
Matthew and DJ get a wonderful piece of feedback from a Sydney based listener: Marcello "Oakbridge" Encina has subtitled the show "The theological Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis."
- photoshopped photos that can illustrate that are more than welcome!
Matthew references "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man" by James Joyce.
2nd Letter from Apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Epistle_to_the_Thessalonians
https://youtu.be/kbPBDKOn1cc
Matthew and DJ have a question from avid listener Corey Sleap. It is basically about the definition of the word "Evangelical" in light of different culture's views of the word... DJ and Matt go on to talk about these four words:
- "Evangelical"
- "Reformed"
- "Fundamentalist"
- "Orthodoxy"
Matthew references these books:
Martin Lloyd Jones' book "What is an Evangelical?"
G.K. Chesterton's book "Orthodoxy"
Rodney Stark's "The Triumph of Christianity: How the Jesus Movement Became the World's Largest Religion"
Harold Lindsell's "The Battle for the Bible"
For more information about what "Reformed" is: https://www.challies.com/articles/what-it-means-to-be-reformed/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calvinism
For more information on Fundamentalist Christianity: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Christian-fundamentalism
The dictionary definition of Orthodoxy: orthodoxy - noun UK the generally accepted beliefs of society at a particular time. the traditional beliefs of a religious group or political party. the degree to which someone believes in traditional religious or political ideas.
How the Orthodox Christians define themselves: https://orthodoxwiki.org/What_is_Orthodoxy
Intro to 1 Thessalonians Assurance of judgement and hell. The man of lawlessness.
Matthew and DJ wrap up the book of Colossians.
They talked about the false teachers and false teaching that was circling the church back then {and still does today!}
Here is a quote from Bible teacher Myke Harbuck:
"The Colossian heresy, as it is called by many, involved many false teachings at the church of Colossae. It was a mix of Jewish legalism, Greek philosophic speculation, and Oriental mysticism. It has been speculated that the location of Colossae played an important part in the mixed character of the false teachings in the church. This may be true since most of the beliefs and features appear later in Gnostic philosophy and in Greek and Oriental mystery religions. Paul uses the epistle of Colossians to combat this heresy and to set the church on the right track.
One can conclude from the counter-emphasis of Paul that the Colossian heresy involved first the diminishing of the person of Christ. Paul countered this false teaching by stressing the preeminence and realness of Christ the person. In Colossians 1:15, Paul says, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.” (HCSB).
The next issue of the Colossian heresy involves the emphasis on human philosophy. Paul fought the human philosophy which taught that human speculation was divorced from divine revelation. Paul boldly and with accurate precision counteracted these human philosophies with Colossians 2:8, which says, “Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on elemental forces of the world and not based on Christ” (HCSB).
Paul also used Colossians to counteract elements of Judaism. These elements included circumcision, rabbinic traditions, dietary regulations, and Sabbath and festival observations. Paul addressed these problems by enlightening the Colossians on spiritual circumcision and spiritual liberty.
Next Paul addresses problems of false humility and the worship of angels. Those who taught this false humility and angelic worship assumed that the angels were intermediaries between them and God. Paul commands against such a belief in a visionary realm and states that such a person does not “hold on to the head, from whom the whole body, nourished and held together by its ligaments and tendons, develops with growth from God” (Colossians 2:19 HSCB).
Finally, Paul counteracts the idea that Christianity is exclusive or secret. Some of the Colossians flaunted an air or secrecy and of superiority. Paul emphasizes the all inclusiveness of Jesus and the gospel by stressing that Christ is all and in all."
Check out a definition of Gnosticism on Wikipedia
And even the Wikipedia for Colossians covers some interesting points.
Dr Matt Jacoby and his old side kick DJ Paine dive right onto the book of Colossians. After a quick introduction the two make their way through the first two chapters and end up in a very personal place about the difference between having to always "be Right" and "righteosuness"....
This week there a multiple people who were still not exactly clear about the role of the Apostle that was brought up in the book of Ephesians a few episodes ago so Matthew and DJ take another swing at that one. For further reading on Apostles please go here:
Then our two friends look at the final two chapters in the book of Philippians.
This week Matthew Jacoby and DJ get started into the book of Philippians. They cover the historical birth of the church as seen in Acts along with the circumstances around Paul writing this letter. They also get very personal about how Paul's attitude about the gospel getting preached by people who's motivations were not pure has made them reflect on their own mindsets.... Send us your questions!
Matthew and DJ get into the final part of Ephesians. They kick off the episode with a listener question! They need your questions! Submit them today at www.ThriveToday.net.au They then head to the world of submitting wives and loving husbands and can we even discuss this topic in today's world of gender roles? Then they look at this world of demons and angels and spiritual warfare! Thanks again for downloading and listening! Please tell your friends about this show.
Matthew and DJ get into the second half of the Book of Ephesians where the rubber really hits the road. They get into: the two halves of the book. why God has called us to a community. the beauty and thhe issues of "one body" one church. the gift of the Apostles. the old man and the old flesh. and more!
This week DJ Paine and Dr Matthew Jacoby catch up over the incredible letter to the Ephesians. They look at: the background of the area as told to us in Acts 18 - 20. the concept of predestination as mentioned by Paul. the jew and the gentile and the church. and much more.
This week Matthew and DJ finish off the last edition of Thrive with a brief look at the book of Obadiah. A succint and interesting read about the traditions and stories around this prophet can actually be found on Wikipedia here.
Then it is into an all new edition of Thrive and into the book of Ephesians. Since this is the first time in this series that Matthew and DJ have spoken about the Apostle Paul, they spend some time looking at his life, especially his circumstances in writing this book.
Music as always provided by the amazing Rod Gear.
This week on episode 8 of Thrive: Deeper Matthew and DJ cover the second half of the book of Daniel. The languages and style change half way through then book. The focus being on the incredible Chapter 9; the first half of that chapter is an incredible prayer. The second half is Daniel's 70th Week...
Further Study: The Tyndale Old Testament Commentary The Word Biblical Commentary The New American Commentary
In this, our their episode on Ezekiel we go deep on the themes of forgiveness and restoration.
This is the second epsiode of THRIVE DEEPER! Your host DJ Paine and Matthew Jacoby cover Ezekiel and his visions.
We mention the amazing resource that The Bible Project is: https://thebibleproject.com/
and their excellent video about God's name "YHWH" or "LORD" https://youtu.be/eLrGM26pmM0
This is the very first epsiode of THRIVE DEEPER! Your host DJ Paine and Matthew Jacoby cover Ezekiel Part 1