Bible Studies by the Good Friar: Recent Episodes
Patrick L. Francis
Chapter-by-chapter, verse-by-verse bible studies for the masses. With these studies there is no false preaching, only good teaching. The Good Friar's goal is to simply read the word as it is written, explain things in a clear manner, and have some fun! :)
Christ talks about worrying, and we even read a bit from the story about the Queen of Shebaπ
In the beginning of Chapter 06, Christ teaches us not to give for the adornment of man, but the approval of God, and to do so in secret.
Christ teaches us to love our enemies. Something that is rarely taught today, but important as Christ commands it, and it is a symbol of our Spiritual growth.
Christ continues His Sermon On The Mount with excellent teachings about our responsibility to exceed The Law to serve Him, and His desire for us to seek a life of righteousness. Excellent Episodeπ
Christ teaches us about divorce. This is a subject difficult for many people to hear, but I give you an introductory explanation right out of scripture in a clear and concise mannerπ
This is actually an excellent episode, as we learn not only about adultery of the heart, but how we must train ourselves to resist temptation to in our lives, as Christ demands it of those who wish to enter His Kingdom π
Christ teaches us about anger, resentment, and murder... and how in His kingdom, demands of the heart exceed the law. Great teaching :)
Wonderful episode! Often forgotten, not taught, or taught properlyπΆ. Christ teaches how The Law (From Exodus, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy) is still valid today, and He commands us to follow it. It will not pass away "until everything is accomplished (NIV) [or till all be fullfilled (KJV)]." π
Do yourself a favor, and listen to the entire episode π We cover two more beatitudes, and the "Salt and Light;" but I also cover some important issues at the end. Don't skip anything! π
Today we cover the beginning of the Sermon On The Mount, and the first three Beatitudes!π
The three temptations of Christ, plus the beginning of Christ's ministry in Matthew's Gospel (but there is a year missing, that is covered in John).
The three temptations of Christ, plus the beginning of Christ's ministry in Matthew's Gospel (but there is a year missing, that is covered in John).
John the Baptist is introduced in this chapter, and he baptizes Jesus marking the beginning of Jesus' earthly ministry. Great little chapter! π€ β
John the Baptist is introduced in this chapter, and he baptizes Jesus marking the beginning of Jesus' earthly ministry. Great little chapter! π€ β
In Chapter 02 of the Gospel of Matthew, Levi tells the "famous" story of the three wise men (magi -- probably Zoroastrians from Persia). Great little Chapter! π€ β
In Chapter 02 of the Gospel of Matthew, Levi tells the "famous" story of the three wise men (magi -- probably Zoroastrians from Persia). Great little Chapter! π€ β
Chapter 01 of the Gospel of Matthew introduces us to the supernatural nature of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the conflict that presented to Joseph, and outlines the royal lineage of Christ (as compared to the natural lineage we covered in the Gospel of Luke). βοΈπ
Chapter 27 of Acts is a short chapter covering Paul's voyage from Ceasarea to Rome, but he doesn't quite make it because they are hit by a raging typhoon and spend fourteen days being thrust about in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea!! π±β
Acts Chapter 26 is a great little chapter! Remember previously Paul was tried by Governor Felix, who kicked the can down the road to Governor Festus, and now we have the Apostle Paul defending himself before King Agrippa II!π€ Paul recounts his conversion on the road to Damascus and communicates Christ's task for him quite succinctly. He even backs the king into a corner.. listen to learn more!! β
Acts Chapter 25 is a small chapter that introduces Festus as Governor replacing Felix. Governor Festus spends some time in Jerusalem where the Jewish leaders ask that he transfer Paul to them, but instead the new Governor said that if they wish to present their case to him, they may do so in Caesarea. Important to remember is that Paul had been incarcerated for two years so far, without a conviction. King Herod II is introduced in the last part of the chapter. β
In Acts Chapter 24, we have Paul's trial before Governor Felix. They wait five days for the accusers to arrive from Jerusalem, and they bring with them Tertallus, an orator (or attorney), to prosecute the charges against Paul, who is left to defend himself. The trial is obviously a sham, but the Governor is afraid to offend the Jews so he orders Paul held until the commander arrives to provide his testimony (which he already did in the form of a letter, it is a delaying tactic as I explain in the episode). Paul is held for two years, until Governor Felix is succeeded by a new governor Porcius Festus that ends the chapter. π€ β
Acts Chapter 23 opens with the Apostle Paul addressing the Sanhedrin (Jewish High Council at the time) and the corrupt High Priest Ananias. Paul realizes that he will likely not win in a debate with the corrupt official, and begins a theological debate between the Sadducees (only believe in the Pentateuch) and Pharisees (believe in resurrection, Angels, and spirits) about resurrection. Chaos ensues, so the roman commander rescues Paul and writes a letter to Governor Felix about the issue, and sends Paul to him.
Chapter 22 in Acts is a continuation of Chapter 21, where Paul defends himself against the false accusations of the Judaizers. He repeats his Testimony of conversion on the road to Damascus, and the vision Christ gave him on his mission. After Paul mentions that Christ ordered him to bring the Good News to the Gentiles, the crowd erupts again ordering him killed. The Roman officer nearly scourges Paul, until he finds out that Paul is a Roman citizen, then they become nervous and make plans to bring him before the Jewish High Council (at the time called the Sanhedrin). Great Chapter! βπ€
In chapter 21 of Acts of the Apostles, Paul leaves the Ephesian elders at Miletus, and boards a small ship for a quick jaunt around the coastline to Tyre, and then leaves for Caesarea. Paul is met warmly by the Christians and James (brother of Jesus, not the James that was martyred with a sword by King Herod) with the church elders in Jerusalem. However the Judaizers (those that believed Gentiles must strictly adhere and adapt to the laws of Moses if they are to be followers of Christ) once again falsely accuse Paul and he is imprisoned. At the end of the chapter Paul asks permission from the Roman commander to address the people, and he does so in Aramaic.
Acts Chapter 20 begins with Paul traveling to Macedonia, Greece, and Troas; and by the end of the chapter requesting the Ephesian elders to meet with him, because he knew by the Grace of The Spirit he would never see them again. Paul left them with two important concepts:
- Love of money is a hallmark of false teachers.
- The Bible is The Word and the Source for Spiritual Growth
I provide some explanation and sample accompanying verses to enhance these concepts, because many people have lost their way, and remember "The Way" was the name Disciples of Christ gave to themselves (because Christ called Himself The Way), so it is important to remember where we were, who we are, and where we "should" be going.
Love of money is a hallmark of false teachers: Isaiah 56:11 New Living Translation (NLT) 11 Like greedy dogs, they are never satisfied. They are ignorant shepherds, all following their own path and intent on personal gain.
Jeremiah 6:13 New Living Translation (NLT) 13 βFrom the least to the greatest, their lives are ruled by greed. From prophets to priests, they are all frauds. Micah 3:11 New Living Translation (NLT) 11 You rulers make decisions based on bribes; you priests teach Godβs laws only for a price; you prophets wonβt prophesy unless you are paid. Yet all of you claim to depend on the Lord. βNo harm can come to us,β you say, βfor the Lord is here among us.β
Titus 1:11 New Living Translation (NLT) 11 They must be silenced, because they are turning whole families away from the truth by their false teaching. And they do it only for money. 2 Peter 2:3 New Living Translation (NLT) 3 In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money. But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed.
The Bible (Word) is the source for spiritual Growth 1 Thessalonians 2:13 New Living Translation (NLT) 13 Therefore, we never stop thanking God that when you received his message from us, you didnβt think of our words as mere human ideas. You accepted what we said as the very word of Godβwhich, of course, it is. And this word continues to work in you who believe.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 New Living Translation (NLT) 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 1 Peter 2:2 New Living Translation (NLT) 2 Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment,
The church is the pillar and foundation of the Truth 1 Timothy 3:15 New Living Translation (NLT) 15 so that if I am delayed, you will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.
Great Episode! π€ β
In this chapter we are told the story of Paul's third missionary journey, his time in Ephesus, and the riots in Ephesus caused by Demetrius and his monetary concerns over his manufacturing of idols for Artimus.! Great Episode!π€ β
Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos are introduced in this chapter!!! Plus, another 'uprising' is thwarted by the Governor of Corinth! πβ
In this episode Paul and Silas preach to the Athenians, and debates with Epicurean and Stoic Philosophers. It's kind of fun! Great Episode! Β π€ β
Acts Chapter 16 introduces "Timothy," who will later become Paul's right-hand man. They meet Lydia, who works with purple cloth and after her conversion she invites them to stay for awhile. Paul and Silas are illegally beaten and jailed. β
Acts Chapter 15 is Awesome! π Luke introduces the concept of "Judaizers," or basically new Jewish converts to "The Way" (or Christianity) near the time of Christ. Judaizers believed that to be a disciple of Christ, one must follow the Laws of Moses (Jewish Law) as well, including circumcision which Gentiles found repulsive. So a meeting of the Elders was convened in Jerusalem, and established the new Gentile converts need follow only four requirements, here is a quote from the NLT (Acts 15:28-29): "For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay no greater burden on you than these few requirements: You must abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. If you do this, you will do well. Farewell."
I explain each of these in great detail for you, and remember, Jews for generations had to learn and obey many laws, so having the new Gentiles file no laws "seemed unfair" to them. π€ β
Paul and Barnabas preach in Iconium, Lystra and Derbe, Paul is stoned by rebellious Jews and believed to be dead (though of course he was not, as his time had not yet come), then Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch of Syria to let the believers know of their good news. π€ β
Chapter 13 is a transition in Acts, where the first 12 chapters focus on Simon Peter, and the balance Saul who is Paul. Here Dr. Luke transitions Saul's name (his Jewish name) to Paul his Gentile name), as his ministry transitions to the Gentile world. In this chapter we meet the sorcerer who is punished by God, and we see Paul and Barnabus convert many Jews, who are then chased away to begin their Gentile ministry. Paul gives a great oratory on the history of our faith, and tying it together with how Jesus fulfills the prophecy of the Messiah. Great chapter!. π€ β
In Acts Chapter: 12 King Agrippa I (Grandson of Herod the Great) makes a brief appearance as he has James killed with a sword, and incarcerates Simon Peter. We then have an Angel of the Lord Rescue Simon Peter, and the death of Agrippa as he accepts worship from his people instead of extending that worship to God. Great Episode! π€ β
In Acts Chapter 11 we have one of the most shocking admissions in Jewish history, that Gentiles can now enter the eternal kingdom quote (verse 18): "We can see that God has also given the Gentiles the privilege of repenting of their sins and receiving eternal life." Simon Peter relates the story of Cornelius and their respective visions, and Barnabas goes to Tarsus to find Saul (Paul) (who had been disinherited by his family for believing in Christ). Excellent Episode! π€ β
Cornelius, a Roman Centurion, receives a visit from an Angel, and Simon Peter is given a vision from Heaven that is a transitional period in our Faith from Judaism through the New Covenant in The Way.... It's a great story! π€ β
Acts Chapter 09 tells the story of Saul's conversion, when he eventually becomes Paul and writes 2/3 of the New Testament! Another beautiful story in Chapter 9 is Simon Peter's resurrection of Tabitha! Great Chapter! π€ π½
Chapter 08 of Acts opens with Saul (who later becomes Paul) witnessing (and agreeing with) the murder of Stephen, who was stoned at the direction of the Sanhedrin (High Council) and other Jewish leaders. We then witness Simon the sorcerer showing his false faith and desiring to commercialize the Holy Spirit, then Phillip teaches and baptizes the Ethiopian eunuch and is miraculously transported away! Great Episode! π€ β
Chapter 07 in The Acts of the Apostles is a masterful defense by Stephen (the first Christian Martyr) of the Christian Faith from the Old Testament. Great Episode! π€ β
We see our first "disharmony" of new believers in Chapter 06 of Acts, and the establishment of an administration to deal with the problem. Stephen, one of the new chosen disciples is filled with the Holy Spirit and performs many miracles, which of course, results in the Sanhedrin arresting him. Teenie-tiny chapter! π€
Here we learn the punishment for hypocrisy in the early church, where Annanias and Saphira attempt to deceive the Holy Spirit π² Then we see Simon Peter and Paul hauled in front of the "High Council" again, and flogged. Why? For healing the sick, making the lame walk, the blind see, exorcising demons from the tormented, and teaching the Truth of Jesus Christ π€ β
In chapter 04 of Acts, Simon Peter and John are arrested and brought before the council of Sanhedrin. Of course, there is little the council could do to Peter and John for healing a lame man, so the council let them go. A wonderful episode of prayer and the Holy Spirit is presented, and the early Church lives for each other instead of material things... Great Episode! π€ β
In this chapter Simon Peter and John heal a man at the Temple that was lame from birth. Since this man was well known from years of being a beggar at the Temple, Peter used the opportunity to preach a sermon at the Temple. One important message within the sermon was that the Nation of Israel must βRepent, therefore, and turn to God.β Since they were sinners, and literally crucified their prophesied prophet and Savior, what were they to do about their sin? Simon Peter used scriptural proofs that God fulfilled the messianic prophecies, in Christ. Therefore, they must renounce their former life open their minds to a new way of thinking. They needed not to worship the law or their ceremonies, but hear the message of the Cross and salvation through Jesus Christ. True repentance affects the core of humanity by reaching into the inner depths of your soul and guiding you to loving relationships with others, even those that persecute you. To repent is to admit that you are a sinner and renounce your sinful ways. True Faith is having repented, you turn to God through the love and guidance of the gift of His spirit, and attempt to live a life of righteousness.
Acts Chapter Two is the day of Pentecost! The Holy Spirit flows from Heaven with the roar of a mighty wind, settling on the Apostles like tongues of fire π Filled with the Spirit, Peter preaches to a crowd in the first sermon of Christianity where 3,000 are baptized in mikvahs (baptismal baths) at the temple, and the believers form a community selling all of their worldly possessions and sharing completely with one another. If only we lived in the same manner today! π€ β
Luke opens Acts with Jesus promising the Holy Spirit. Then Jesus ascends, and the apostles cast lots to determine who will replace the betrayer of Christ, Judas Iscariot. Matthias was chosen. π€ β
Chapter 24 in the Gospel of Luke covers the Resurrection of Christ, the Road to Emmaus, and His Ascension! Great Chapter! :)Β
Luke Chapter 23 covers the trial of Jesus before Herod Antipas and Pontius Pilate, the Crucifixion, Death, and Burial of Jesus. β
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 22, Judas betrays Jesus... Jesus shares the Passover meal and Last Supper with His disciples, and Christ is arrested...β
Chapter 21 of the Gospel of Luke contains one of my favorite little stories in the New Testament (The Widow's Mites / Offering), then of course one of Christ's Prophetic discourses (not the Olivet Discourse, but close!)... Hopefully you will love the insight I share, and find it useful! Great Chapter!! π€ πβ
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 20, Christ is tested by the teachers of religious law, and of course prevails! He share the parable of the evil farmers, discusses the resurrection and taxes, and asks whose son He is. Great Chapter! π€ πβ
The Gospel of Luke Chapter 19 covers the story of Jesus and Zacchaeus, the Parable of the Ten Servants, Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, His lamentation, and clearing the Temple (for the 2nd time). Great Chapter!! π€ πβ
In the Gospel of Luke chapter 18, Jesus teaches the parable of the persistent widow, the parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector, tells the story of the rich man, blesses the children, heals a blind beggar, and prophecies His death. Great Chapter! π€ πβ
In the Gospel of Luke chapter 17, Christ teaches about forgiveness and faith, heals ten men of leprosy, and teaches about the coming kingdom. Great Chapter! π€ πβ
Jesus teaches the Parable of the shrewd (crooked) manager, and the story of the rich man and Lazarus. Great Chapter!! πβπ€
One of my favorite chapters in scripture is the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 15. Christ tells three parables: The Lost Sheep, The Lost Coin, and the Lost (or Prodigal) Son. Great Stuff! πβπ€
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 14, Jesus heals on the sabbath again, teaches about humility, shares the parable of the Great Feast and expounds on the true cost of being His disciple. Great Chapter! πβπ€
Chapter 13 in the Gospel of Luke is another good one! Christ presents a call to repentance for all who wish to enter the kingdom, and explains in detail that "narrow is the door" that leads to salvation. Not everyone will be able to enter! Great Chapter! πβπ€
Jesus warns against hypocrisy in the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 12, shares the Parable of the rich fool, the meaninglessness of material things, Β and living a life of "Expectancy" -- or living as if He could return at any minute (which he can!!). Great Chapter! πβπ€
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 11, Jesus teaches about Prayer, the Prince of Demons, the Sign of Jonah, the Light, and criticizes the religious leaders. Great Chapter! πβπ€
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 10, Christ sends out "the seventy," teaches the most important commandment, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and visits the home of Martha and Mary. Great Chapter! πβπ€
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 09, Jesus sends out His disciples on their first ministry, Jesus feeds the 5,000, meets Moses and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration, predicts His death, and explains the cost of being His disciple. Great Chapter! πβπ€
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 08, Jesus teaches about parables and why he uses them. Tells the parable of the Farmer Sowing Seed and the Parable of the Lamp, defines the true family of Christ, calms the storm, heals a demon possessed man, the woman suffering from bleeding, and raises the daughter of Jairus from the dead! Great Chapter! :)
In the Gospel of Luke Chapter 07, Jesus is impressed with the faith of a Roman Officer, gives an update and encouragement to John the Baptist, and is anointed by a sinful woman. Great Chapter!Β πβπ€
In the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 06, Christ teaches about the Sabbath, and the "Sermon On The Plain" (Beatitudes and Woes, loving your enemies, not judging, and building your faith on a solid foundation).Β
In Chapter 05 of the Gospel of Luke, Christ chooses His first disciples (the fishermen Simon Peter, James, and John as well as Levi who is known as Matthew), heals a man with leprosy and a paralyzed man, and teaches the Parables of the New Dispensation (or new covenant) when also teaching about fasting. Great Chapter!πβπ€
Chapter 04 of the Gospel of Luke deals with the Temptations of Christ, His rejection at Nazareth, and healing many in Galilee, including the mother-in-law of Simon Peter (yes an Apostle of Christ was married!).
Here in Episode #169, Dr. Luke introduces John the Baptist, who Jesus describes as: "among those born of women there is no one greater than John" -- he then shares the Baptism of Christ, and His genealogy. Great Chapter! βοΈ
In Episode #168 I share a secret story about a sign I received βοΈ, and we cover Chapter 02 of the Gospel of Luke. Here Luke concentrates on the birth of Jesus, His presentation at the Temple, the prophecies of Simeon and Anna, and Jesus talking with the teachers at the Temple. Great Chapter! :)
Here in Episode #167 we begin with The Good Friar 2.0! I was gone for awhile during the pandemic due to health reasons, and am hopefully well enough to begin again! In this episode I give a brief synapsis of how we are approaching our new evolution, and we start off with the wonderful Dr. Luke! The Gospel of Luke Chapter 01 foretells the birth of John the Baptist and Jesus, includes two visits by the angel Gabriel, the Magnificat (Mary's Song of Praise) and Zechariah's prophecy. This introduction, as well as Chapter 02 is not available in the other Gospels, so we are presented additional insight! Great Chapter!