Baldhead Bible Podcast: Recent Episodes
Dr. John Katsion
Most of the Bible is in story form, and my goal is to keep the power of the story while applying the truths of scripture. If you want to hear stories of great men and women from the Bible, with an application that is relevant to your life, then this is the podcast for you. New episodes will be added every Friday. If you wish to contact us, feel free to email us at baldheadbible@gmail.com
Well, it's a new beginning for Baldhead Bible podcast, and as such, I thought we would redo some of the best stories from the Bible. And what better place to start than with the story that began the great story of scripture: Creation. Turn to Genesis One to follow along.
In this chilling fourth chapel session of summer 2025, we delve into the harrowing story of the demon-possessed man from the Gadarenes, a man consumed by multiple demons, illustrating the stark battle between good and evil. We explore the biblical account of his encounter with Jesus, the powerful exorcism that followed, and the profound lesson about the dangers of dabbling in the supernatural. This sermon underscores the importance of true faith, prayer, and scripture in accessing the divine realm, while warning against engaging with dark spiritual forces. The message culminates with a significant choice: to embrace change and share the gospel as the freed man did, or to reject the transformative power of Jesus.
In today's episode, we explore the compelling story of Jesus walking on water and rescuing His disciples amid a terrifying storm. This narrative, filled with moments of fear and faith, serves as a profound reminder of God's presence and control in our lives, even during tumultuous times. Join me and my dog Pepper as we delve into the significance of trusting Jesus, who promises to never leave us or forsake us, and who calms the chaos with His divine authority. Whether you're facing personal battles or wondering where God is amid your challenges, this story offers encouragement and a powerful message of hope. Discover why keeping your eyes on Jesus can make all the difference.
I am continuing my series on the messages I delivered at various camp chapels this summer. Throughout the season, I shared stories from Jesus' life and explored what it means to be a disciple. This week, we focus on the idea that being a disciple requires us to rely on Jesus to meet all of our needs. Drawing from the story of the feeding of the 5,000 found in the gospels, we observe how Jesus, upon learning about the death of His friend John the Baptist, was moved by grief. Despite His sorrow, He saw the people as sheep without a shepherd and chose to address their spiritual and physical needs. The story culminates in the miraculous event where Jesus feeds thousands with just five loaves of barley and two fish. How did He accomplish this? Tune in to this week's podcast to find out.
Hey Baldhead Bible Friends,
Today I am taking a short break from the Acts series and instead posting what I am preaching at the various camps I have the privilege of speaking at this summer. I am focusing on stories from the life of Jesus and challenging the kids with Jesus' call to radical discipleship. I recorded this first sermon while walking some of the trails at Trout Creek Bible Camp in Corbett, OR. In this first sermon, I challenge the kids to hear God's call to be a disciple and to "Come Follow Me." Turn to Luke 5 to follow along in your Bibles.
In this episode, we delve into the journey of Paul as he begins his third missionary journey. Right away, he faces a riot in Ephesus, a major influential city in ancient Asia Minor. We explore Paul's encounters with Apollos, an eloquent speaker who learns about the complete baptism in Jesus, and with disciples of John who realize they need to understand who Jesus truly is. The episode also covers a dramatic story involving the sons of Skiva, who fail in their attempt to use Jesus’ name to exorcise demons, highlighting the power and supernatural nature of Paul's ministry. Lastly, we witness the profound impact of the gospel on the city, leading to the public burning of valuable pagan artifacts and causing significant unrest among the devotees of Artemis. Turn to Acts 18 and 19 to follow along.
In this episode, we explore Paul's transition from preaching in Athens to his missionary work in Corinth. We delve into his initial strategies to reach the Athenian intellectuals and his subsequent efforts to spread the gospel among the pleasure-seeking Corinthians. Paul’s journey also highlights the significance of his work as a tent maker, which provided both income and opportunities to engage with the local community. Additionally, this episode examines the challenges Paul faced, including opposition from synagogues and legal confrontations, which ultimately helped legitimize Christianity in Roman law. This week, we learn the need to evangelize through everyday work, the importance of community in ministry, and the sovereign role of God in reaching His people. So, join us as we unpack the lessons from Paul's missionary endeavors and learn how to apply them to our own lives. Turn to Acts 18 to follow along.
We are BACK. We were away for a month, but now we're back and moving on with the story of the church in the Book of Acts.
This week, we are examining how the Apostle Paul preached the gospel in the highly religious and philosophically diverse society of Athens. This video explores Paul's strategies for sharing the message of Jesus with Jewish people in synagogues and with pagan Greeks in the marketplace. Discover how Paul used cultural touchstones, such as idols and local philosophies, to contextualize the gospel in a theological vacuum. Learn how Paul's approach can serve as a model for preaching in today's spiritually disconnected culture. Turn to Acts 17 to follow along.
In this episode, we follow Paul, Silas, and Timothy as they spread the gospel from Philippi to Thessalonica and beyond. From freeing a demon-possessed girl to igniting a cultural revolution in Thessalonica, witness how their teachings on Jesus as the Messiah disrupt societies and "turn the world upside down." Then follow Paul as he heads to Athens and finds a city full of idol after idol, and is invited to address the great Athenian thinkers of his day with this new philosophy founded by a man they had never heard of before... Jesus. Join us as we go from Phillipi to Thessalonica, Berea, and then Athens. Turn to Acts 17 to follow along.
In this episode, we recount the story of Paul and Silas in Philippi, focusing on their imprisonment and the miraculous events that unfolded. Despite being beaten and thrown into the depths of a grim Roman prison, Paul and Silas turn to prayer and hymns, demonstrating unwavering faith. Their responses lead to an earthquake that opens their prison doors and the conversion of the jailer and his entire household. This story highlights the power of joy and faith in adversity, and how God's work can transform lives and build communities of faith. Turn to Acts 16 to follow along.
Join us as we delve into the inspiring and challenging journey of Paul and Silas in Philippi. From their encounter with Lydia, a wealthy businesswoman, to a transformative moment with a demon-possessed slave girl, this story highlights the power of the gospel to change lives. Witness Paul and Silas' unwavering faith despite severe persecution and explore the early expansion of Christianity into Europe. Learn important lessons on the dangers of demonic influences and the enduring power of Christ's name. Turn to Acts 16 to follow along.
In this episode, we explore the poignant story of Paul and Barnabas, two early church leaders whose sharp disagreement caused them to part ways. The disagreement over John Mark leads to their separation, but we do see that these three men always leave room for reconciliation. So, now, a new partner in ministry joins forces with Paul, and his name is Silas. Together Paul and Silas begin the second missionary journey to visit the churches they had just planted. Along the way, they encounter a young man named Timothy, who joins them in the work, and finally, the author of the book of Acts, Luke, joins them as well. In this episode, we will hear about the great sacrifices some made to spread the gospel. We also see how God leads his people through a combination of the Holy Spirit and circumstances to affect His will. And finally, we see the gospel expanding westward into Europe for the first time. God is doing incredible work through Paul and Silas. Turn to Acts 15 and 16 to follow along.
Join us as we delve into Acts 15, where the early church faces its first major doctrinal dispute: How is one saved? Understand how the church leaders, including Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James, debated the necessity of Jewish law for salvation and ultimately confirmed that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone. Learn about the cultural and religious tensions and how the early church addressed and resolved critical theological issues, setting a precedent for doctrinal clarity and church unity. Turn to Acts 15 to follow along.
The Book of Acts so far has followed the birth of the church and focused on Peter and the activities of the disciples in establishing the church in Jerusalem. But starting in Acts 13 we see a new focus, a focus on Paul, previously called Saul, and his work of spreading the gospel to the Gentiles. This week, we are telling the story of Paul and Barnabas and the exciting adventures they experienced during their first missionary journey. Turn to Acts 13 and follow along as we begin this first great missionary adventure.
In today's episode, we see Peter pulling another miracle escape. But it's not because he is an early Harry Houdini. No. It is because Peter serves a miracle-producing God. We hear the story of his escape, but then we also hear of the tragic death of Herod Agrippa the First. Who instead of giving glory to God, decided to take it all for himself and paid the ultimate price. Listen to this weeks episode to hear of the last great adventure of Peter recorded in the Book of Acts, and the reintroduciton of Saul of Tarsus after disappearing from the story for over 12 years. But now, the story will center on him and his missionary work. Turn to Acts 11 and 12 to follow along.
This week we hear about the conversion of a man named Cornelius and a whole bunch of animals on a bedsheet. Now how are those two things connected, and what does that have to do with the gospel? Turn to Acts Chapter Ten to follow along.
We now come to the first recorded resurrection in the Book of Acts. And it happens to one of the worst-named women in the Bible. Yes, you guessed it: Dorcas. But before Dorcas is raised, we meet another poorly named disciple named Aeneas. Listen to this week's story to hear more about these two and hopefully come away with a greater appreciation for the power of the gospel. Turn to Acts Chapter Nine to follow along.
We are sharing the story of Saul of Tarsus, who was once a persecutor of Jesus' followers but has now been radically transformed by faith. The gospel has changed him from a persecutor into a believer. If you have ever wondered about the power of the gospel to change someone’s life, please take the time to listen to today's story and be encouraged. The gospel is real, and lives can be changed—even those who seem most hardened to it. If you'd like to follow along, please turn to Acts 9.
This week, we tell the story of Paul's conversion. He went from persecuting those who followed Jesus to becoming a disciple of Jesus himself. Turn to Acts chapter nine to follow along.
We are currently studying the Book of Acts and have reached chapter 8. Last week, we discussed the story of Simon the Magician and his response to the gospel. This week, we encounter another man who was exposed to Jesus and the gospel, but his reaction was very different from Simon's. This prompts us to consider: How will we respond when we encounter Jesus? If you'd like to follow along, please turn to Acts chapter 8.
In today's story, we meet a man named Phillip. We also hear of believers being severely persecuted for their faith led by a man named Saul. But they stand firm and continue proclaiming Christ no matter the cost. Phillip is one of them who, because of the persecution, has to leave Jerusalem, and he eventually arrives in an area called Samaria. There, he encounters a dark spiritual force led by Simon the sorcerer. What will happen? Who will win this spiritual battle, the forces of darkness or the forces of Jesus? Turn to Acts chapter 8 to follow along.
In this episode, we will tell the story of Stephen. The Bible describes him as a man full of faith who was a powerful preacher and debater. He was so skilled at defending the faith that everyone who debated with him would lose. Stephen played a significant role in turning Jerusalem upside down and bringing in many converts. However, the Sanhedrin was determined to stop this and was willing to go to great lengths, including killing him, to do so. Would they succeed? Tune in to this week's episode to find out. You can follow along by turning to the book of Acts, chapters 6-8.
We took a break for over a month and couldn't post any content because we went on a vacation to Rome, Italy, and then on a ten-day cruise. It was pretty hectic before we left, and I barely had any time to post content for our podcast. But now we're back, and we're hoping to start posting content weekly. This week, we're continuing our series in the Book of Acts. We're picking up the story right after the events surrounding the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira. When news of their deaths and the reasons behind them spread, a great sense of fear fell upon many people. At the same time, great signs and wonders were happening among the people, and many in Jerusalem were turning to follow "The Name." This made some people very jealous, which led to the arrest of all 12 disciples. Turn to Acts 5 as we continue the story.
It has been a while since I last posted. I have been speaking non-stop at camps for the past three weeks, but finally, I could carve out some time to record a podcast while speaking at Trout Creek in Oregon. This week's episode is a sad one. Ananias and Saphira are found lying to God and paying the ultimate price with their lives. But we also meet a new character in the story of Acts, a character introduced for the first time, but one that will play a significant role in the story of the growth of the church moving forward. His name is Barnabas. Hear his story and that of Ananias and Saphira in this week's podcast.
Jesus. Some people use it as a swear word, others use it only at Christmas or Easter, while others use it when talking about the man they worship and serve. In today's story, we will look at the power of the name of Jesus. In today's story, we meet a man who was healed simply because of the name of Jesus. And we will also learn the importance of talking and sharing His name. There is immense power for a Christian to simply talk about Jesus and to boldly proclaim Him as Lord. So, who was the man who was healed, how did it happen, and what kind of power can be found in Jesus' name? Listen to find out, and turn to Acts chapters 3 and 4 to follow along.
Jesus told the disciples to wait in Jerusalem after He left. To wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit. And so, as we turn to Acts chapter two, that is exactly what we find: the disciples waiting and praying, and praying. And then they are still waiting when they find themselves in the middle of the Feast of Pentecost. And then it happens. One of the most glorious events during one of the most glorious Jewish festivals of the season. What was that event? Listen to this week's podcast to find out.
We are going to tell the story of the birth of the church. From its early days in Jerusalem to its final expansion through the work of the Apostle Paul, we see it all unfold in the book of Acts. The whole book is the story of the early church, and we will follow the adventure of the gospel spreading forth as we tell the story found in the book of Acts. First, we begin with an ending of sorts: the end of Jesus' time here on earth and His ascension to be with His Father. But before He left, He left the apostles with a mission: to spread the gospel's good news and make disciples. Listen to part one of the exciting story in the Book of Acts.
At last, we have arrived at the end of Matthew's story. However, this is just the beginning of a greater and more marvelous story. Matthew concludes his account of Jesus' life with the starting call of the ongoing, unending tale of God's glorious love for us who acknowledge Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Jesus calls all His followers to go out and make more disciples, but what does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus? How can one know if they are truly a disciple? To find the answers, let's turn to Matthew 28 and follow along.
The Bible sometimes has peculiar little-known stories that many people skip over on the way to the really important stuff. One such story is found in Matthew 27. It's a story I like to call the time Jesus met some Zombies. But they weren't Zombies, no these were people coming out of graves, but they weren't half dead, half alive monsters. No, they were resurrected saints proclaiming the victory of Jesus over death. Who were they? And what story am I talking about? Turn to Matthew 27 to find out.
We now come to Friday of Jesus' last week on earth. It is one of the saddest stories in the Bible and one full of hope because of what Jesus accomplished. This is a story of two Marys and their devotion to Jesus. This is a story of betrayal, abandonment, and denial. But it is also a story of hope, loyalty, and spiritual power. It is the end of one story and the beginning of a more glorious one. Read on and learn more about Jesus's death and burial and how all the disciples abandoned Him except for two women named Mary. Turn to Matthew 26 - 28 to follow along.
Jesus had just spent the evening celebrating the Passover meal with the disciples. Jesus introduced the New Covenant and gave His disciples a new perspective on the Passover meal. A new perspective that they were to do from now on "in remembrance of Him." But now, as they began to ascend the Mount of Olives, I believe the burden of what He was about to bear on the cross became real to Him. Maybe it's too real. And this is where Jesus finds a quiet place to beg His Father to take this cup of wrath from Him. Will the Father do it? Listen to this week's episode to find out. Turn to Matthew 26 to follow along.
The disciples are eating the Last Supper in the upper room. They are enjoying their time together as they reflect upon Yahweh's faithfulness in leading the people of Israel out of Egypt. But then Jesus makes an announcement: one of them sitting right there will betray Him. The disciples look at each other in fear and begin shouting: is it I, Lord? But there was one who was silent, plotting and scheming, and was glad to be rid of this imposter Messiah. Who it was and what happened next, listen to todays episode to find out.
We are coming down to the end of Jesus' earthly ministry. We are in the middle of passion week. It's Wednesday. But I wonder if the knowledge of what He is about to go through on Friday begins to weigh on His shoulders and begins to color everything that He sees and tastes. Remember, Jesus is 100% God, but He was also 100% man and lived and felt the things any human would feel during His time on earth. And I cannot imagine the feelings He must have felt knowing what He was about to go through. But I think one caring soul did sense the deep sorrow that Jesus was feeling, and she did something about it. She celebrated who Jesus was. How? Listen to this week's story and turn to Matthew 26 to follow along.
It is the Tuesday of Holy Week, the week Jesus went to the cross to die and then 3 days later defeated sin and death by resurrecting from the grave. But before that Friday, Jesus still had a lot to do. His Father had much for Him to accomplish on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. One of those jobs was to confront the Pharisees and Sadducees, to warn them of the peril they were in and to offer redemption. Confront their hypocrisy and call them to repentance. Listen on to find out what happens on Tuesday. You can also turn to Matthew 23 to follow along.
It is now Tuesday of Holy Week and Jesus is heading back into Jerusalem. He is about to encounter a group of men who will hound His every move, looking for any opportunity to discredit His ministry and arrest Him. These men were part of a powerful religious organization called The Sanhedrin who are afraid of Jesus and His attack on their power and prestige. They were beginning to fear Jesus, and they were looking for ways to try to take Him down. Listen on to hear how Jesus fights these attacks and along the way teaches us how to be better disciples.
It is now Monday of passion week, the week Jesus will die for the sins of the whole world. But that is on Friday, and there is still Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday to come. Today is full of service, ministry, healing, and teaching. But before all that starts, Jesus and His disciples need to eat some breakfast. A nice juicy fig will do. So, as they walk towards Jerusalem, Jesus spots a fig tree. What happens next will be an opportunity for us all to learn more about faith and what it means to be a true disciple of Christ. Turn to Matthew 21 to follow along.
This is a beautiful day and the beginning of the final week in the earthly life of Jesus. It is a Sunday, and what will happen today will fulfill an ancient prophecy Daniel and other Old Testament prophets foretold. Today will be a day that will introduce Jesus as King to His people. Sadly, they will ultimately reject Him, but today they are shouting Hosanna, today they are praising His name, calling Him King. Today is a good day.
Jesus is about to enter the period where He begins His long march to the cross and crucifixion. But before that, He has a lot of teaching and warning and encouragement for the disciples. He does not want them to lack knowledge and the spiritual fortitude to take on the evil forces amassing all around them. And one group in particular He wants to warn them about. Listen to this week's story as we hear our Savior warning His disciples of the leaven of the Pharisees. Turn to Matthew 16 to follow along.
Now, that is quite a provocative title. Can you imagine! There is a story in the Bible where Jesus compares a woman to a dog. But He also heals her daughter, feeds 4,000 people, and, by the end of the story, provides blessings upon blessings to people who do not deserve it. Why would Jesus compare a woman to a dog? And how does this lead to blessings? Turn to Matthew 15 and listen on.
This week's story focuses on the importance of handwashing. While it may not seem like the most captivating topic, it carries significant religious questions and practical applications for living a life of faith. To read more, turn to Matthew 15.
O you of little faith, why do you doubt? That is the message I want all of us to learn after listening to this week's story: we should never doubt that God will provide for our needs. Listen to this week's story and be encouraged in your faith. Be encouraged that if Peter can walk on water, we can trust that Jesus will provide for us. To follow along, turn to Matthew 14
Jesus has learned that John the Baptist was beheaded and martyred for his faith. Jesus escapes the crush of the crowd in order to be alone, but soon the crowd follows and they find Him. And in His compassion, Jesus leaves His grieving to minister among them and to heal their sick and to cure the blind. Jesus performs miracle after miracle, but then the evening begins to draw near, and the people do not have enough food to eat. How are Jesus and the disciples going to feed all these people? Listen on to find out. To follow along in the Bible turn to Matthew 14.
When Jesus heard that His friend John the Baptist had died, Matthew writes that Jesus went to a remote place to be alone. John the Baptist was killed for standing up for the truth. He was killed because he wasn't afraid to confront those in power with their sin. But he paid a high price for doing what was right. From a human perspective, it was a terribly sad moment, and I believe Jesus felt the deep grief and injustice of that moment. I wonder if the way John died bothered Jesus because the way he was murdered was bizarre and horrific. Turn to the book of Matthew, chapter 14, to follow along.
Jesus is beginning to teach in parables as an act of condemnation upon the people of Israel for not accepting Him as King and believing He is the Messiah. But what about His own family? Wouldn't it be hard to take if your own family didn't believe you were the Messiah, and some of your brothers tried to kill you at one point? This week we hear the story of Jesus' brothers and how they refused to believe that their older brother Jesus was, in fact, God in flesh. This week we learn more about Jesus and His immediate family and how Jesus turned their cold hearts from unbelief to belief.
This week we tell the story of Jesus beginning to speak and preach in parables. What would cause the son of God to begin speaking in stories and illustrations with deeper spiritual meanings? Why would Jesus speak in obscure ways? Wouldn't Jesus want to be as clear as possible, so He can tell as many people as He could about the Kingdom? Well, there was a reason found in the prophecies of Isaiah. Listen to this week's podcast to find out more. To follow along turn to Matthew 13.
Are you a follower of Jesus who likes the show and the rituals? You like the fact that going to church pleases your grandma and that you are a better person because you obey the basic principles found in the Bible. But you don't really believe what the Bible says, and you are not really sure if Jesus was God or just a good man. But you like your church and eating out afterward for Sunday dinner. But whether you genuinely want to follow Jesus is still up in the air. Well, if that is you, I want to say: this week's story contains a warning for you. Listen to learn more about Jesus and the danger of a Swept Out Soul. To follow along, turn to Matthew chapter 12.
We continue working our way through the book of Matthew and his telling of the story of the life of Jesus. In today's episode, we hear about a sin that is so bad and horrible that Jesus says it's unforgivable. If you commit this sin, it can never be forgiven. But I thought God died for all sins, and there is no condemnation in Christ. So how can there be an unforgivable sin? And if there is an unforgivable sin, have I committed it? Great questions, and in this episode, Jesus answers each one. Turn to Matthew 12 to follow along.
Jesus takes on the Pharisses through a series of Sabbath controversies. On one Sabbath He eats some grain, which to a Pharisee is fine. It was the plucking of the grain that got Him in trouble because that was work. Later on, Jesus performs a miracle and heals a man on the Sabbath, which to the Pharisees who were scrutinizing His every move, it was too much. Why is doing good getting Jesus in so much trouble? Because the Pharisees are forgetting that people are more important than sheep and that God wants mercy more than sacrifice. Listen to this week's story to find out about how Jesus took on the religious establishment and showed the true heart of the Father for people. Turn to Matthew 12 to follow along.
Have you sometimes doubted whether Jesus is real? Have you ever wondered if another religion has it right, and we followers of Jesus are wrong? What if we are wrong? What if Jesus is not the way to Heaven? If you have ever doubted, I want to say that others have doubted before you. One of them was John the Baptist. Listen to John's question, but also listen to Jesus' resounding answer. We do not have it wrong. Jesus is the Messiah, and we can be confident in that fact no matter our circumstances. Turn to Matthew 11 to follow along.
With this episode, we come to chapter ten in the book of Matthew, and here we meet the twelve disciples by name. We learn how Jesus commissioned them and sent them as "sheep among wolves." And so, in their final pep rally, before Jesus sends his workers out into the harvest, Jesus tells them some exciting news and reminds them of a sober reality. His words are important for all of us to hear as we work to harvest in the field God has called us. To follow along, turn to chapter ten in the book of Matthew.
So what do you accomplish in an average day? How much do you get done? Well with this week's story, we catch a glimpse into an average day for Jesus, and you might be surprised at how much Jesus did in an average day. According to Matthew 9, Jesus taught, Jesus healed, Jesus raised people from the dead, and yet Jesus' day wasn't yet finished. I hope with this week's story you come away with a better appreciation for what Jesus did during His time on earth, and that He lived with compassion for the "distressed and dejected" people around Him. If you would like to follow along please turn to Matthew 9.
With this episode, we continue with the telling of the conversion of Matthew. Now that Matthew is a follower of Jesus, he wants others to hear about Jesus, so he invites all his friends to one big party—a party where they could meet with Jesus and decide whether they should follow Jesus. But the thing is, Matthew was an outcast in Jewish social circles, and because of that, many of his friends were outcasts as well. People shunned by polite society, are now coming to Jesus, to be saved and to follow Him. This sounds all good, right? But to some people, this was the worse thing imaginable. Listen to this week's episode to hear more about Matthew and all his friends. To follow along, turn to Matthew 9.
What is your spiritual story? When did you get saved? How did you come to faith? In this week's story, we hear the call of Matthew by Jesus to follow Him. We hear the beginning of his spiritual story and the healing by Jesus of a paralyzed man. But Jesus did not just heal this paralyzed man but also forgave his sins. And when He said that, some scribes in the audience began to cry blasphemer, heretic. Why would that cause these men to accuse Jesus of such a thing? Isn't forgiving sin a good thing? Well, listen to this week's episode to find out more. To follow along, turn to Matthew Nine.
Can you imagine asking God to leave because He is doing too much good? Well, that is what the townsfolk of Gaderene asked Jesus to do. To go, get out of town, leave before you do too much good. Jesus had faced two men who were demonically possessed, who had threatened and hurt their people, and He defeated them. He cast the demons out of these two men, and for His good work, the people asked Him to leave. Why? Why did they do that? Well, you better listen to this week's episode to find out. Or turn to Matthew 8 to follow along.
This is the exciting story of Jesus and the disciples caught in a terrible storm on the Sea of Galilee. It is a story where Jesus demonstrated His power over nature, and it is the moment some of the disciples finally realized that Jesus is God. This is also a story about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus and what it takes to follow Him. To follow along, turn to Matthew 8.
Jesus gives the greatest sermon of all time. We know it as the Sermon on the Mount. This week, we touch on this sermon, but we mainly tell the backstory of what happened after Jesus preached. We give you the story around the sermon and tell the miraculous story of the faith of a Roman Centurion. It was faith in Yahweh that the Bible says amazed even Jesus. Turn to Matthew 5 - 8 to follow along.
Jesus triumphed over Satan and his temptations, and now Jesus is ready to continue His earthly ministry. He was preaching and teaching in Nazareth, but then Jesus heard that John the Baptist was arrested. And so for His own safety, Jesus leaves Nazareth and heads north to a small fishing village called Capernaum. There Jesus begins to preach the same message that John the Baptizer preached: "Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near." And while preaching, teaching and healing, and calling for repentance, Jesus also calls four disciples to leave all they had to find life and come follow Him. Listen to this week's story to find out who those disciples were, and what it means to repent and follow Jesus. Turn to Matthew 4 to follow along.
Jesus had just been baptized. He had heard His Father say to the world how proud He was of His son. This must have been a wonderful moment for Jesus during His short time here on earth. But now we see Jesus facing one of the darkest chapters of His life. During the next 40 days, Jesus is asked by His Father to go without food, to face wild beasts, and to wander in a hot and dangerous desert. And then, at the end of it, Jesus would have to face one of His greatest tests: He would have to face being tempted by Satan. How Jesus handles Satan's onslaught is a perfect example for us today of how to handle our daily temptations and should make us love our Savior even more. Turn to Matthew chapter four to follow along.
Who was John the Baptist? How did his ministry relate to the life and ministry of Jesus? And if Jesus was God, why did He have to be baptized? Today we tell the story of John the Baptist and the incredible honor and privilege he was given when he was chosen to baptize the son of God, and we also wrestle with the question as to why Jesus needed to be baptized by John. Listen to this week's episode to find out more. Turn to Matthew 3 to follow along.
This week we tell the story of the angelic announcement to the Shepherds of the arrival of the Messiah. How would you react if suddenly a glowing figure appeared before you? How would you handle it if all of a sudden, the place where you were standing was full of other supernatural beings all glowing with a great fire, proclaiming that a miraculous event had occured? How you would handle it,? Well, these shepherds were afraid enough that the main angel had to tell them to stop being afraid. They had good news of greaforjoy for all people. And you want to know what it was? Well, listen to this week's story and follow along in Luke chapter two to find out.
Matthew tells the story of Mary and Joseph and the virgin birth of Jesus. Now he moves on to establish that Jesus is the heir to the throne of David. He clarified that earlier when he shared the genealogy of Jesus, but now he confirms it when he tells the story of the Magi from the East who came to see the new King, and they honored Jesus as King. Listen as I share how tough it must have been for Joseph and Mary to raise Jesus in first-century Palestine. But then moments like this, meeting the Magi who came to see their little King, reminded them of the specialness of their little boy and the importance of Jesus' mission here on earth. If you want to follow along in your Bible, turn to Matthew chapter two.
What was it like to be Joseph and to hear your beloved wife-to-be tell you that she was pregnant and that the Father was God almighty? What must that have been like? I think I would not have believed her either, and instead of putting her away privily as my King James Version says, I would have divorced her loudly. But Joseph wasn't like you or me. Instead, he was a righteous man, and a loving man, and a man of great faith. Hear the story of Joseph and what he went through and what we can learn from him about how to live righteously in our chaotic, confusing times.
Moses has led the people of Israel from their mighty exodus out of Egypt to where they are now: about to enter the Promised Land. But Moses cannot lead them into the land. Because of what happened at the waters of Meribah and the act of outright rebellion against God committed by Moses, he was no longer allowed to go into the Promised Land. He had to die and go to be with Yahweh. And so Moses dies at the age of 120. In this episode, we briefly sum up his life, and we also sum up this series. In the end, the writer of Deuteronomy sums up Moses' life this way: No prophet has arisen again in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face. 11 He was unparalleled for all the signs and wonders the Lord sent him to do against the land of Egypt — to Pharaoh, to all his officials, and to all his land— 12 and for all the mighty acts of power and terrifying deeds that Moses performed in the sight of all Israel. -- Deuteronomy 34:10-12 (CSB)
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Balaam was a prophet for hire, and he had just lost a lot of money because of Israel and their God, Yahweh. For which he was angry at Israel and their God. So, as he was heading home penniless, growing angrier and angrier with each passing mile, I believe Balaam hatched a plan to get back at the people of Israel for all the money he had lost and to stick it to the God of Israel. What was that plan? Listen to this week's podcast to learn about faithful Phineas and his action that stopped a plague in its tracks. To follow along in the Bible, turn to Numbers 25.
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Israel is winning battle after battle led as they are by Yahweh, the God of Israel. They are camped in the Moabite region, across the Jordan river from Jericho. The promised land is just around the corner, the people are about to see the promise God made to Abraham and Jacob fulfilled. But there is one King who is not happy. One King is hoping to stop their advance with a curse delivered through a mysterious prophet named Balaam, who says he talks to Yahweh on a regular basis, and who promises to be able to divine the very mind of God. Will this curse work? Will this curse stop Israel in its tracks? And how does a talking donkey factor into this story? Listen to this week's episode to find out. To follow along turn to Numbers 22 as that is where the story begins.
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Moses and the people of Israel are getting closer to entering the Promised Land. God led them and watched over them as they took their winding, wandering route to finally end up in the land of the Moabites, home to the Amorite Kings: Sihon and Og. But these weren't just your ordinary Kings. No, these two were powerful, and also they had a bloodline that could be traced back to one of the scariest moments in human history. What was that moment, and what in particular made them so frightening? And why were they both giants? Listen to this week's fascinating story about how God used the people of Israel to defeat these powerful giant Kings on their way to the Promised Land. To follow along, turn to Numbers 21.
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This week we hear the story of Moses rescuing the people of Israel with a snake. Now a snake was the shape Satan took in the garden when he deceived Eve, and generally speaking, a snake is a bad thing, but here God commands Moses to use a snake to save the people of Israel from certain death. Jesus later uses this passage from the book of Numbers to help explain what it means to be born again. If Jesus used it, then this must be a pretty important story. Listen to this week's episode to discover how snakes, Moses, and Jesus are connected, and point to a great salvation offered in Christ. Turn to Numbers 21 to follow along.
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Moses and the people of Israel are back. God had commanded them to wander in the desert for 40 years until the faithless generation died, and now their children were ready to inherit the Promised Land. They were back at the southern border. But you know what else was back? Fear. Complaining. Faithlessness. The people again cried out to Moses about the lack of water to drink. They were complaining just like their parents about how they were all going to die, and if they had just stayed in Egypt, they would all have been eating well and drinking all the water they wanted. And so Moses approached Yahweh and asked for help. And God gave him an answer, and Moses pretty much obeyed every command God gave him. Except for one very vital command. And disobeying in that one area would cost Moses dearly. Do you want to know what it was? Listen to this week's episode to find out and learn that complete obedience matters to God.
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The Jewish people were at the border of the Promised Land and had to turn around. They saw the grapes that were so big they had to be carried on poles. They also saw giants and became afraid for their very lives. So they ran rather than trusting in Yahweh, and for that, they paid a very heavy price: they were forced to wander in the desert for 40 years until everyone over 20 died. Unhappy with God's will, some men decided to rebel and lead a coup to try to take the leadership of the country away from Moses and Aaron. But in rebelling, they weren't simply rebelling against Moses; they were ultimately rebelling against Yahweh and His choice and will for Israel. Korah has two prominent leaders of Israel on his side and over 250 tribal leaders backing his bid for control. Things are looking bleak for Moses, and his leadership of Israel seems to be hanging in the balance. But then, the order is restored through a miraculous intervention by Yahweh. Listen to this week's episode to find out how. And to follow along, turn to Numbers 16 and 17.
Have you ever sung that Sunday School song about the twelve spies? If you have, you know ten were bad, and two were good. But you don't realize from that song how bad the ten other spies were. They forgot about Yahweh's promises and His miracles and chose instead to focus on the reality around them. And what you also don't realize from that famous Sunday school song is how terrifying a prospect it was to take on the giants in the land. These were not just tall people; these were giants who were the descendants of the Nephilim. And for the average Jew, the Nephilim represented a supernatural evil that would have been truly frightening. Listen on to find out the fear displayed by the ten spies and the faith demonstrated in the face of evil by Joshua and Caleb. To follow along, turn to Numbers 13 and 14.
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Moses gets attacked by his sister Miriam and his brother Aaron in this week's story. But it's not Moses' fault. The man did nothing wrong, and the Bible even says in Numbers 12 that Moses was the meekest man to ever walk the face of the earth. So you know he didn't pick the fight. So what made Miriam so mad? Why did she try to tear Moses' leadership down and why did Aaron join in? Sadly, it all came down to one ugly word: jealousy. See how it started and the miraculous way that Yahweh stopped Miriam and Aaron dead in their attempt at a hostile takeover. Turn to Numbers 12 to follow along with this week's story.
Moses and the people of Israel spent roughly a year at Mount Sinai meeting with God and receiving the 10 commandments and directions on how to build the tabernacle. But now they are on the move on their way to the Promised Land with Yahweh and the Ark of the Covenant leading the way. But along the way, there arises a group of people the Bible calls riffraff, a rabble, and they begin to complain about how the LORD is treating them, particularly in what they are eating. They crave something more than manna, what they desire is meat, and they begin to question the goodness of God in not satisfying their cravings. What happens next is a good reminder of the tragedy that comes when we live by our appetites rather than the word of God. To follow along, turn to Numbers 10 - 11.
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The day has finally arrived. Roughly eight months after arriving at Mount Sinai, the Tabernacle is ready to be built. It took 80 days of listening to specific directions from God on the exact dimensions of each piece of furniture, how each covering was to look, and how all the objects in the courtyard were to look. It was time to put all the various parts together and build the Tabernacle where Yahweh would come to reside to be with His people. Listen to this week's podcast as we recount the story of the Glory of the Lord filling the Tabernacle and as Moses remembers the blessings of Yahweh as we wrap up the book of Exodus. Join us by turning to Exodus 40 and following along.
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Moses is desperate. Yahweh is so fed up with the people of Israel that He will not allow His presence to be with them anymore. He is afraid they are so stubborn and sinful that His anger will break out and kill them. So Yahweh has decided not to lead the people of Israel into the promised land anymore. The people are devastated when they hear the news: God almighty will no longer be with them. What are they going to do? How can the people possibly take on the powerful tribes around them and the giant clans that await them in the promised land without the presence of God with them? They can't, and they know it, and Moses knows it. So Moses goes to the tent of meeting to intercede for the people. Will Yahweh listen? Will Moses find favor in the eyes of the Lord and change the mind of God so that He is willing to lead them and be with them once again? Listen to this week's story from Exodus 33 and 34 to find out.
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Moses had been gone for a very long time. He had been gone for forty days and nights, for over a month, and the people wanted a leader. They wanted a god like the ones they left in Egypt. They were probably starting to doubt the love of Yahweh for them, and maybe some of them tried to take control of the nation, and now that Moses was gone, perhaps some of them saw their chance. So they confronted Aaron, and they demanded a new god. And so Aaron gave them a god. And what is about to happen next will lead to many deaths and nearly destroy them as a nation.
It has been three months since Israel crossed the Red Sea and left Egypt behind. It has been three months following Moses and the cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. It has been three months of seeing Yahweh work miracle after miracle every day. It has been three months since the gift of manna was provided for them every day so they could eat in the desert. It has been three months of being tested by God to prepare them for this moment: the moment they meet God on Mount Sinai. Listen to this week's podcast to hear the exciting story of Yahweh descending on the mountain to meet Moses and to give Moses something that will change Israel and the history of the world forever. Turn to Exodus 19 and 20 to follow along.
I will admit this next story is not full of battles between Israel and a clan of giants, or there aren't any miraculous moves of God to amaze. Instead, this is a simple story of Moses being stuck with a difficult task to perform and his father-in-law Jethro coming up with a brilliant solution. But this seemingly simple story is also about pride versus a teachable spirit and how willing we are to accept and listen to criticism. If you find criticism hard to take and would like to become better at taking feedback, then today's story is for you. To follow along, turn to Exodus 18.
I am unable to put out a podcast this week on our new series of Israel and their years of wandering in the desert. I am unable to because I am at one last camp for the summer season of 2022. This summer I told the story of Kings Joash and Josiah, and how their lives teach us many things. Some bad from Joash and some really good things from Josiah on how to live a life devoted to the Lord. I took those sermons and mushed them into one sermon when I have been asked to speak at churches this summer. Here is that sermon. I hope you find it encouraging and that it gives you practical ways to live courageously for the Lord in times of moral fog, or what I call cultural chaos. This sermon is taken mainly from 2 Chronicles 23,24,33,34 and 35.
Israel is on the move, all 2 million souls. They are following Moses and Yahweh as they lead them away from Egypt towards the promised land. They move in stages, from one oasis to the next, making their way towards Mount Sinai. It felt like aimless wandering to the average Israelite but not to Yahweh. He had a purpose and a plan for this journey from the Red Sea to Mount Sinai and the giving of the Law. That purpose was to reveal the hearts of the Israelite people. To reveal whether they had soft hearts ready to obey or hard, selfish hearts bent on pleasing themselves. This week we hear the miraculous story of God giving His people water from a rock and how, in the end, the people proclaimed Yahweh-Nissi: The Lord is our Banner. To follow along, turn to Exodus 17
This week we are going to start a new series. We are going to tell the story of Israel and its desert wanderings. We are starting today where the desert wanderings began: right after the victorious high of experiencing the miracle of crossing the Red Sea. Moses then leads roughly 2 million people to their first stop or station on the way to Mount Sinai to receive the Law. In today's story, we will hear the miracle of salty water turning sweet and bread falling from the sky. Listen to this week's episode to find out more. Turn to Exodus 15 and 16 to follow along.
We come to the end of the story in Nehemiah, but sadly for Nehemiah, the obstacles he faces are not over. He is about to meet one of his most significant obstacles, one of the tallest mountains he has ever had to climb. King Artaxerxes called Nehemiah back to be his cupbearer once again, and for two years, he left to serve the King. But then he returned to Jerusalem, and the thought he was returning to a people reinvigorated to serving Yahweh. But instead, what he found was something completely different and some significant challenges. Listen to this week's podcast to find out. To follow along in your Bibles, turn to Nehemiah 12 and 13.
The walls are built, and the people are moving into Jerusalem to live safely behind the new walls. Things are going exactly to plan. And then Ezra reads the law. He reads the Pentateuch for 6 hours as the people stand and listen. And what happened next will shock you, but it will also remind you of the power of hearing scripture and how simply hearing God's words can change a life and a whole culture. To follow along, read Nehemiah Chapters 7 - 12.
Nehemiah, and the people of Judah, finally complete the wall. And they meet it in record time. They completed the wall in only 52 weeks. What a fantastic feat, and it shows the brilliance of Nehemiah, but it also indicates that the hand of God was with Nehemiah. One way the hand of God was revealed was through saving the life of Nehemiah again and again. Listen to this week's podcast to hear how God rescued His servant Nehemiah from certain death and how Nehemiah was able to complete the wall. To follow along in your Bible, turn to Nehemiah 5 and 6.
Nehemiah is an organizational genius. He not only had to come up with a way to rebuild a wall nearly 2 miles long and 30 - 40 feet high, but he also had to come up with a way to build it under the threat of constant attack. How is he going to do that? How can he organize the people so they can overcome these obstacles and at the same time give glory to God while fighting to defend their homeland? Listen to this week's episode to understand that the genius behind Nehemiah was the fact that he relied on God to accomplish the task to which God called him. You can follow along by turning in your Bibles to Nehemiah 2 - 5.
Nehemiah wept over the state of the wall in Jerusalem. He was grieved to hear of the city's danger and the failure of the returned exiles to complete the job of establishing Jerusalem once again. Nehemiah felt that he had to do something. He felt God calling him to holy action. And so, his first step was also one of the most dangerous steps: he had to ask the King for help. But King Artaxerxes had recently decreed for all of the work to stop in rebuilding Jerusalem. And now Nehemiah had to go ask this same King to allow him to return, and not only that, Nehemiah had to ask for physical and financial help from this same King. What if the King got mad? He could lose his life just for the asking. Listen on to find out what Nehemiah does and how the hand of the LORD was with Nehemiah every step of the way. To follow along, turn to Nehemiah chapter 2.
The book of Ezra introduced us to the exiles' journey back home to the Promised Land after a 70-year absence and all that the exiles went through attempting to rebuild the Temple. Finally, the Temple was built, and Ezra worked hard preaching and teaching the Law to the people. But now we run into a problem: the Temple is rebuilt, but the people are not moving forward. Jerusalem's walls are in ruin, and the Jewish people are fading into the culture around them. Enter Nehemiah. He sees the problem, and he weeps for his people and yearns for the safety of his people in Jerusalem. But he is an influential man stuck back in Susa, the Persian capital. What can he do about it? How can he help the people in Jerusalem? Listen to this week's podcast to find out. Turn to Nehemiah Chapter 1 to listen.
This week we meet Ezra, the man the book is named after. We also come to the end of the story. Ezra was a man dedicated to three things: studying the Word of God, obeying the word of God, and teaching the word of God. Those three things were the dominant theme of his life and ministry, and they are on full display in this story. Because of those things, in just five months, Ezra causes a nation to realize something dreadful: they have broken their covenant with Yahweh and are in danger of judgment. What will happen? Will the nation be judged once again by Yahweh? Listen to this week's episode to find out. To follow along turn to Ezra chapters 7 - 10.
The people gave up. For over 15 years, the Jewish people quit building the temple. They were threatened by the people of the land, who did not want them to continue the rebuilding. The Babylonian authority told them to stop. Everything was working against them, and in many ways, the Jewish people just gave up. But then God sent two prophets to wake the people up. Who were they, and what happened next? Listen on to find out. Turn to Ezra 5 and 6 to follow along.
Zerubbabel is forced to stop building the Second Temple. Jeshua and Zerubbabel had done so well. They had led the people back to the promised land, and they had made a new altar and begun daily sacrifices again to Yahweh. After a silence of 80 years, sacrifices were once again being offered to Yahweh. Progress was being made. But there was an enemy present. One who did not want to see God's people back and one who wanted to see all this progress come to a screeching halt. But how? How could they stop the work of God? Listen to this week's podcast to learn what they did and how Zerubbabel and Jeshua kept moving forward despite the opposition. Turn to Ezra chapters 3 - 5 to follow along.
This week we start a new series on the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. Many believe they were originally one book later split into two, and that idea makes sense when you realize their story focuses on the same overall event: the return of the exiles to the promised land. The return of the Jewish people to their homeland occurred in three waves. Today's story focuses on the first wave led by Prince Zerubabbel and the decree of King Cyrus, allowing the people of Israel to return and rebuild the temple. But we begin by telling the story of Daniel. Now, what would Daniel have to do with this story? Listen on to find out. To follow along in your Bible, turn to Ezra 1.
We last left Jesus in the garden, praying, begging for this cup of suffering to pass from him. But in the end, Jesus knew it was His cup to bear, His cup to drink, and with His final conversation with His Father, He stood up ready to face the coming onslaught. And there was very little time for Him to reflect on the coming ordeal because right away, what He saw coming towards Him would have terrified the average person, but for Jesus, instead, He saw an end and a beginning. The end of His ministry on earth, but the beginning of His future glory. What did He see coming towards Him? Listen on to find out. Turn to John 18, Luke 22, Mark 14, and Matthew 26 to follow along.
In this week's snapshot, we see the humanity of Jesus on full display. Remember that Jesus was 100% man and 100% God all simultaneously. And many times, we forget that Jesus was fully man and suffered in very human ways down here on earth. Sadly, in the garden, we see Jesus overwhelmed with the horror of the coming cross. Where others saw a beautiful garden, Jesus saw a beckoning sorrow, and with that, he began to weep. How did Jesus handle the emotions that were threatening to overwhelm Him? Listen to this week's podcast to find out and learn ways to make it through the trials you face. Turn to Mark 14 and Luke 22 to follow along.
In the next couple of episodes, we will look at snapshots from the life of Jesus. From the last supper to His triumphant resurrection. We begin with looking at graduation day for His disciples. Jesus had been honing and shaping them in the Jesus school of ministry for the past three years, and now they were ready. Graduation day had come. So what was Jesus going to say? As the graduation speaker, what were the words of encouragement He wanted to send His disciples? We know exactly what He said, and it's found in John 13. Listen to this week's story to hear His stirring words that still encourage those who call Him Lord and Master today.
This is the final episode in the Jeremiah series, and this is the last day he gets to spend in Jerusalem. Nebuchadnezzar has sacked Jerusalem and burned it to the ground. And now the people of Judah are being deported to Babylon, and Jeremiah is being dragged along with them and his trusty sidekick Baruch. These were two men who tried to live for Yahweh, who did their best to obey His commands, yet they still had to suffer the consequences alongside those who chose to disobey. Is that fair? How do we make sense of that? Why do good people suffer along with the bad? Is there an answer? Listen to this week's episode to find out the answer we find in the story of Jeremiah. To follow along, read Jeremiah 38 - 45.
It had to be dark in that pit as Jeremiah slowly sank into the mud. As he stood there, he must have felt himself sinking further down into the mud at the bottom of this nasty, stinky cistern. How did Jeremiah end up there? Why did Jeremiah end up there? What could have been so bad that he deserved being shoved into a deep, dark mud hole? If you have ever sometimes wondered where God is in the middle of your pit of despair, well, this is a story you have to hear. Turn to Jeremiah 37 and 38, and Lamentations 3 to follow along.
Jeremiah is a wanted man. King Jehoiakim of Judah wants Jeremiah gone, dead, killed off. Yet God commands Jeremiah to go and read all the prophecies of doom and destruction that God has given to Jeremiah over the last 25 years, to go and have them read to Jehoiakim, the very man who is trying to kill him. How is Jeremiah going to do that? First, he has to write them down and then read them to the King. Enter the scribe, Baruch. Listen to this week's story to hear about Baruch and the reaction of King Jehoiakim to the reading of the scroll. Turn to Jeremiah 36 to follow along.
We go back and look at two more visual parables this week. God would use any method He could to reach His people Israel. Sometimes he asked His prophets to portray His message to His people visually. Last time it was dirty underwear and broken clay pots. This week it is a yoke and buying a field. How will God use these images, these visual parables, to reach His people? What messages is He trying to send? Listen on to this week's podcast to find out. To follow along in your Bible turn to Jeremiah 27 and 32.
What was it like for Jeremiah to preach? This week, we look at a scene from Jeremiah's life showing the challenges he had to face every time he preached. And one of his greatest challenges was that he spoke under the threat of imprisonment and the grave possibility of death every time he preached. And yet he still preached and warned his fellow Israelites of God's coming judgment, but also he told them about God's offer of grace. Finally, we hear the story of a contemporary of Jeremiah: the prophet Uriah. He preached the same message that Jeremiah preached, but he ended up paying the ultimate price for his devotion and obedience to God's calling on his life. Listen to this week's podcast to learn more about Jeremiah, Uriah, and the high cost of discipleship. Read Jeremiah 7 and 26 to follow along in your Bibles.
In the Bible, God would use any means to reach His people Israel. He would send prophet after prophet to warn His people, or He would send plague, disaster, or some other act of judgment to try to wake His people up. And sometimes, if the people were unwilling to listen, God would use symbolic action, or a visual parable, to try to help his people understand and get them to listen. In the next couple of episodes, we will hear four of them. Today we are going to listen to the first two. And this first one is quite the doozy. Turn to Jeremiah 13 and Jeremiah 18 and 19 to follow along.
This week we are starting a new series on the book of Jeremiah. We will be focusing on specific scenes from the life of Jeremiah, the prophet. Jeremiah was called by God to speak, to preach, to weep over a crumbling culture slowly drifting away from the worship of Yahweh. I believe there are things that we can learn from Jeremiah's life, from his story, to help us live a faithful witness in the middle of our own drifting culture. This week we learn about the call of God on the life of Jeremiah. God called him to stand up, speak out, and call the people of Judah back to God. What does God's call look like today? Do followers of Jesus have a similar call like today? If we do, what can we learn from the call Jeremiah experienced? Listen to this week's podcast to find out. Turn to Jeremiah 1 to follow along.
We come to the end of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, and boy is it a sad ending. King Josiah led Judah towards a godly future. One where the people of Judah were once again in covenant with Yahweh. But then he died, and his sons were left to run the country, and unlike their Father, they had no interest in having a heart after Yahweh. Instead, they led Judah back to its idolatrous ways, and we come to the final chapter in the story of Israel. We also meet a prophet named Jeremiah, who though he weeps over his people's sin, leaves us with a glimmer of hope. The tragic story that is about to unfold may have a happy ending after all. Listen to find out more. To follow along in your Bible, turn to 2 Kings 23 - 25 and 2 Chronicles 36.
Josiah is a fabulous King in the eyes of the LORD. He has a heart wholly devoted to him and is busy tearing down high places and removing idolatrous practices from the nation of Judah. He began to rebuild the broken parts of the Temple to restore the site dedicated to the worship of YAHWEH. The High Priest Hilkiah was busy cleaning and ordering the temple treasury when he saw the edge of something sticking out in the corner. It looked like a scroll, probably some scroll that tallied the gold, silver, or other things stored here. But when he pulled it out and rolled out the scroll, and began to read it, he discovered something incredible. Something amazing. What was on this scroll? Listen to this podcast to find out. Read 2 Kings 22 - 23 and 2 Chronicles 34 and 35 to follow along.
As King of Judah, can an 8-year-old child be the Greatest Of All Time? The greatest king Judah, and in fact, all of Israel ever had? The writer of 2 Kings thinks so. He wrote of this 8-year old King that "Neither before nor after . . . was there a king like him who turned to the Lord as he did—with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses" (2 Kings 23:25). Who was this fantastic elementary school kid? What was the name of this child King that put the adults around him to shame? Listen on to find out. Turn to 2 Kings 23 and 2 Chronicles 34 - 35 to follow along in your Bible
Hezekiah was a good King who followed Yahweh with all his heart. Though he did not end his reign on a high note, overall, he was a King who pleased God. And for eleven years his son Manasseh co-reigned with him, learning from his Dad how to lead the nation in a way that pleases God. And when his father died, at the age of twelve, Manasseh became the sole ruler of Judah. And you know what he did when he was finally on his own? He became one of the vilest, evil kings Israel and Judah had ever known. Why? What caused him to forsake everything his father stood for? And would he reject Yahweh for all of his reign? Listen to this week's story to find out. To follow along in the Bible turn to 2 Kings 21 and 2 Chronicles 33.
This week we come to the end of Hezekiah's story. The GOAT of Judah, one of the greatest Kings Judah ever had, is coming to the end of his days. He is dying, and the prophet Isaiah has shown up to tell him that God wants him to get his house in order because he will die. But Hezekiah is not ready to die. He still wants to live, so he pleads to the Lord for life, to not die, and to live longer. He prays for God to remember all he has done for Him and to give him more time on this earth. And then God answers. What is the answer God gives him? You will have to listen to this week's episode to find out. Turn to 2 Kings 19, 2 Chronicles 30 - 31, and Isaiah 39 to follow along.
The great Assyrian King was threatening the very walls of Jerusalem. He had marched throughout the Samaritan region, destroying nations and taking many captive and exiling them to Nineveh and the cities of his Assyria. And he had one prize left, the city of Jerusalem, and he was primed to siege and take it and wipe out the nation of Judah forever. Judah's King at the time was King Hezekiah, and he had to face the threat of Sennacherib and his vast army. But how? Where is Judah's, God Yahweh? When will Yahweh show himself powerful and defend His people? Hezekiah cries out to God in desperation. Will He listen? Will he save the people of Judah from King Sennacherib? Listen to this week's story to find out. To follow along in your Bible turn to 2 Kings 18 and 19, 2 Chronicles 32, and Isaiah 36 and 37.
King Hezekiah is the ruler of the southern Kingdom, known as Judah or southern Israel. Last week, Hezekiah cleansed the temple, reformed and reordered the priesthood, and now he calls all of Israel to come to the temple in Jerusalem to rejoice and worship the one true God Yahweh. He calls all that is left of the northern Kingdom to come and celebrate. Will any of them come? Will the Lord accept their worship? What will this celebration look like? Listen to this week's podcast to find out. Read 2 Chronicles 30 to follow along.
The greatest of all time, otherwise known as the GOAT. This week we meet for the first time the GOAT of the Kings of Judah, and his name is Hezekiah. Now it is not me making this claim of goatness for him, it is the Bible. Scripture says that there was no better King before or after him. And what made him so great? Well, for one thing, he was not afraid to take on super secret serpent cults. Listen to how he dealt with the cult of Nehushtan, and reigned in such a way that the Bible called him the greatest King of all time. To follow along turn to 2 Kings 18 and 2 Chronicles 28 and 29.
The end, That's all, folks. And they lived happily ever after. All stories come to an end, a conclusion. And we hope they are happy endings, that the story ends with the hero riding into the sunset having vanquished all their foes. But other stories end badly; they end on a sad note. And this week, we hear one of those stories. The end of Northern Israel does not end well. Their story concludes ugly, painful, and the worst part about it is that it could have all been avoided if the people of Israel had done one simple thing: obeyed. Hear the end of their story, and may it be a reminder to us all that the only path to joy is trusting and obeying Jesus. To follow along in your Bible, turn to 2 Kings 17.
This week we look at the story of King Ahaz and the famous prophecy that "A virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Immanuel." This prophecy was pronounced by Isaiah to King Ahaz and later used by Matthew to help explain the virgin birth of Christ. How can a prophecy of judgment against a rebellious King of Judah be applied to the birth of Jesus? Listen to this week's episode to find out. Turn to 2 Kings 16 and 2 Chronicles 28 to follow along.
One theme that keeps coming up as I tell these stories is the theme of obedience. God expects His children to obey His commands. And if we do obey Him, God promises that He will bless us. In this week's story, we hear the story of King Jotham and his choice to obey and to not waver in that obedience. By doing so, God blesses him and, by extension, the kingdom of southern Israel. Hear his inspiring story and the call God gives to all his children to live a life of obedience. Read 2 Kings 15 and 2 Chronicles 27 to follow along.
Pride is the original sin, and led to the downfall of Lucifer as he wanted to be like "the most High." From Lucifer's first prideful desires, humanity has always struggled with pride and its various sinful manifestations. In this week's story, we hear about two Kings, who let their pride rob them of the joy of following God, but it also led to their personal ruin and destruction. their stories are a warning to our culture of the proper place of pride and how the greatest remedy to pride is found in giving God all the glory. You can follow the story by turning to 2 Kings 14 and 2 Chronicles 26.
King Amaziah is a fool. The Bible says the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and fools despise wisdom and instruction. Well, King Amaziah was a fool because he followed God, but not wholeheartedly, and in that, he was a fool. Amaziah came to the throne at the age of 25, taking over from his murdered father, Jehoash. He had the chance to do what was right and to obey Yahweh and follow him all his days. But instead, Amaziah chose to imitate his father's heart and follow the LORD a little bit, but mainly with very little loyalty. What will happen to him and southern Israel? Listen on to find out. To follow along, turn to 2 Kings 14 and 2 Chronicles 25.
This week we say goodbye to the prophet Elisha. After 56 years of serving Yahweh, he finally gets to go home and be with the LORD he loves forever. But even on his deathbed, Elisha continues to minister and try to call the people of Israel back to the service and worship of Yahweh. He calls for the young apostate King of Northern Israel Jehoash and offers to bless him with a bow and arrows. Listen on to hear more of Elisha's final hours and the miracle Elisha performs even after death. To follow along go to 2 Kings 13 in your Bible.
Joash was rescued from certain death by the heroics of Jehosheba and Jehoiada. Without their intervention, he would have indeed died. And then they instructed Joash in the things of the Lord and raised him to be a godly King once he took back the throne from the wicked Queen Athaliah. Joash even demonstrated his faith by caring enough to prioritize rebuilding the temple of the Lord. Joash loved Yahweh and was going to be a godly King the rest of his days. But then Jehoiada died, and Joash now had to be King and follow God on his own. He would do great because he demonstrated faith in God already. Or would he? This week's story is a warning for our age and anyone who cares about their children's faith. Do they own their faith, or is it all outwardly expressing love for you, but not for God? Read 2 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 24 to follow along.
Jehosheba is a name that I want you to remember. I hope her name goes down in history as one of the great women of faith. Because without her choice to stand up to evil, we wouldn't have the Messiah, the Davidic line would have been lost forever. Who is she and what is her story? Listen to this week's podcast to hear more about her and her courageous act. If you want to follow along turn to 2 Kings 11 and 2 Chronicles 22.
We are in a cosmic battle. The forces of darkness versus the forces of light. Yahweh versus Satan. And you are part of this great battle. Our story this week makes the case that God will use you to accomplish His will on earth. And when He does use you, will you follow the call and be fully surrendered to His will? Or will you be like Jehu and instead offer an "incomplete obedience"? Listen on to hear the rest of the story of Jehu.
This story is found in 2 Kings 10.
Elisha sends one of the sons of the prophets to find Jehu, a commander in the army of Northern Israel, and to anoint him the new King of Israel. The only problem is that Israel already has a King, and his name is Jehoram. And Jehoram and the King of Judah, Ahaziah, are friends who will work together to help each other maintain their throne. But this command to anoint Jehu King of Israel came from God through Elisha. How is this going to happen? How will God affect His will against two powerful Kings? Listen on to find out and to find out how Jezebel finally gets the punishment she deserves for all her wickedness. This week's story is found in 2 Kings 9 and 2 Chronicles 22.
What would you like to have put on your tombstone at the end of your life? What would you want God to say about your life, its work, and whether your life was worthy of praise? Would you want God to say he died to no one's regret? Well, God did say that about someone, and this week we will learn more about this man and the sad cautionary tale that his life takes. To follow along read 2 Kings 8 and 2 Chronicles 21.
The writer of 2 Kings loves to talk about the wonders of Yahweh, especially as seen through the work and ministry of the Prophet Elijah. We have been hearing about some of his stories that are found in 2 Kings. This week we get to hear two of them: one good and one bad. Both of them show God working in mysterious ways, and both involve our man Elisha. Listen on to find out what happens. Follow along at 2 Kings 8.
This week we tell one of the saddest and most horrific stories in the Bible. It reveals the depths of depravity that humanity can fall too, while also revealing the miracle-working God that Elisha serves. I want to warn parents and younger listeners that this week's episode contains material that might be too scary and emotional for younger children and some adults. So please read the end of chapter six in Second Kings first before proceeding.
Have you ever asked the Lord for help over something that you feel is too trivial a concern for the God of the whole universe? Well, in this week's story, we hear a cry for help that seems pretty mundane: I lost my friend's ax. But how God responds, through His servant Elisha, is an encouraging story to make all our requests known to God. And then we end with one of the best demonstrations of the supernatural world written in the Bible. So this week, we go from the commonplace to the sublime, and along the way, we also learn a little more about the wonderful God we serve.
Elisha was the man, the new prophet of Israel. And God has been using him and working miracle after miracle through Elisha's ministry. Alongside him, this whole time, was his servant Gehazi. He was there when they met the Shumannite widow; he was there when God raised her son back to life. But along the way, there have been some troubling signs that Gehazi is not all that he pretends to be. And with this week's story, Gehazi's true colors are revealed. Listen on to find out and be reminded of the tragic consequences of serving the Lord out of improper motives. You can follow along by turning to 2 Kings 5.
Elisha is establishing himself as the prophet who now speaks for Yahweh. With miracle after miracle, Elisha proves that God is working through him, and the writer of 2 Kings wants his readers to see that as well. This week we see Elisha used by God to perform a miracle without even meeting or touching the healed person. It is the story of Naaman, and if you have ever faced suffering and wondered how to make sense of it all? Well, this week's episode is an important one for you to hear. It is a story of healing, faith, and, most importantly, seeing how great God is. Turn to 2 Kings 5 to follow along.
The work of Elisha, and the miracles he performs, continue to amaze and reaffirm that Elisha truly is God's man. He is enjoying time alone on Mount Carmel, worshiping God, and studying. But his peace is interrupted by the arrival of a woman and her desperate plea. What is so terrible that it would make her travel 4 - 5 hours to find Elisha? And how does Elisha help a widow and her children who are facing tragedy and abandonment? Listen on to find out. If you would like to follow along in the Bible, both stories today are out of 2 Kings 4.
A three King alliance comes to Elisha for help. They are dying from thirst in the desert as they march towards a battle with the Moabite King Mesha. If they don't get water to their troops, many of their fighting men will perish right there in the desert, and they will certainly lose the battle. They have come to Elisha to find out whether their current calamity is the will of the Lord and if Yahweh's desire is for them to fail in their mission. Elisha knows the answer and the wonderful way God will provide. Do you want to know as well? Listen to this week's episode to find out.
This week I am sharing a sermon I gave yesterday at Bennington Bible church in Bennington, KS. I have just finished a week of camp at East Iowa Bible Camp and a weekend speaking at Bennington Bible Church. So, needless to say, I am exhausted and have run out of time to produce a new episode for this week. What I am sharing this week is a sermon I gave at Bennington Bible on the life of King Asa and what we can learn from his life to serve Jesus better today. I hope this sermon gives you a glimpse of what a typical sermon using a narrative approach sounds like, and I hope and pray it is a blessing for you this week. To follow along turn to I Kings 15 and 2 Chronicles 14 - 16.
Elisha just saw his mentor taken up to heaven in a whirlwind with a fiery chariot trailing right behind. Elijah did leave one thing behind: his cloak, his mantle, the sign that Elisha is now the new Prophet of Israel. The spirit of God now rests on Elisha. But how is Elisha going to prove it? Will God work through Elisha as He did with Elijah? Listen to this week's podcast to discover how God demonstrates to a watching world that Elisha is now His man. All of this can be found in 2 Kings Chapter 2
This is it. This is Elijah's final day on earth before he gets to be with Yahweh forever. And this is also the day Elisha takes the mantle of head prophet, and the spirit of God will now rest on him. This is a big day for both of them and a wonderful story to tell. Listen on to find out what happens next. To follow along, turn to 2 Kings, chapters 1 and 2.
King Jehoshaphat was Asa's son and became King of Southern Israel after the death of his father. Jehoshaphat was a good King and walked in the ways of the Lord and kept covenant with Yahweh. Here is a part of his story from 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Hopefully, it will be a reminder not to be afraid but instead to trust in the Lord. There was a long pause at the beginning of the previous Jehoshaphat recording, so this is the new one.
My wife Peggy and I just got back from speaking and ministering at Stoney Point Camp. As part of our ministry there I gave a devotional every morning during counselor in training (CIT) week. This weeks podcast is a recording from one of those devotionals. Part narrative, part traditional sermon, I hope it gives you a better sense of my heart for camp ministry and also a better understanding of how you can live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. I am speaking out of Philippians 1 and Acts 16.
This week is a live recording of chapel from Stoney Point camp. The recording may be a little rough but I hope you catch a sense of the excitement and energy found in an average chapel at camp. There is no beginning music or jingle. Instead you are dropped straight into the fun and energy of chapel. This week we are going through the life of Asa.
I am at camp for the next two weeks, so I will not put out my regular podcast. Instead, I will be sharing live recordings of what a Baldhead Bible chapel is like. This week I am sharing the last chapel in a series on the life of Jacob that I did at Trout Creek Bible Camp back in 2019. By experiencing a whole chapel from Bible quiz time all the way to the final prayer, I hope that you will get a better understanding of what our ministry is like at summer camps and what the Baldhead Bible experience is all about.
The final days of King Ahab are an interesting glimpse into how the natural and supernatural worlds intermingle. King Ahab of Northern Israel and King Jehosophat of Judah decide to take back Ramoth-Gilead from Ben-Hadad II, the King of Syria. Before they decide to go into battle, Jehosophat asks for a prophet of Yahweh to seek the Lord. What happens next is God pulling back the veil and showing us just a glimpse of the supernatural world. Listen to this week's podcast to find out more about how God works between these two domains: the natural and the supernatural.
Have you ever seen a grown man throw a fit and pout and sulk around like a bratty little kid? Well, I have, and it might have been me and it was not pretty. This week, we hear a story from the life of King Ahab where he did not get what he wanted, so he threw a fit and cried on his bed. But you know who saw it? Do you know who came to Ahab and told him there was a way to work all of this out? Well, listen to this week's podcast to find out and how God used it all to accomplish His will in the end.
We take a break from the story of Elijah to follow some events from the life of King Ahab. We are working our way through the book of First Kings, and the writer of First Kings stops the story of Elijah to look at another dumb move from Ahab. It involved a guy named Ben-Hadad the II and one of the Sons of the Prophets getting punched in the face. Listen on to find out more about this unique story and another important lesson on the sovereignty of God. Go to First Kings 20 to follow along.
Elijah just defeated 450 prophets of Baal; he just ran 30 plus miles in the power of the Lord and outran Ahab's chariot. He saw the Lord rain down fire from heaven, he saw the Lord raise a young lad from the dead, and he saw the Lord provide rain, gallons of it as His word. But when he receives a threat from Queen Jezebel, it makes him so afraid he begins to run and run and run in fear. Why? What is it about Jezebel's threat that makes Elijah so fearful? Listen to this week's episode to find out. To follow along, turn to I Kings 19.
This story recounts Elijah taking on the prophets of Baal. On the outside, that is all it looks like: a struggle between Elijah and 450 prophets of Baal. But in reality, it is a clash of supernatural forces, and it reveals the bigger struggle of Yahweh against the forces of darkness that strive to destroy all that is good and holy. Listen on as we see this grand battle play out at this decisive moment in the grand narrative of God working the long plan of salvation out in the lives of His people.
Elijah is living with a widow and her son. He is enjoying the family life and the endless pancakes. But then tragedy strikes. In the middle of this tragedy, God works a miracle through Elijah, reminding those who listen that God should always get the glory even in the middle of difficult times. To follow along for this week's story turn to I Kings 17 and 18.
Elijah is on the run, being hunted by Ahab and Jezebel. Where is he going to hide for three years until this famine ends? Where in Northern Israel can he go not to be found? Well, maybe the Lord knows the best place to send him is not somewhere in Israel but somewhere outside of Israel. Gentile territory. And who better to take care of Elijah than the poorest member of society at that time. Man, when God works, He likes to work in ways that give Him the glory. And in this week's story, there is no way a man could have thought this up. Listen on to hear more of the miraculous story of God's provision for Elijah and this poor widow.
Elijah. One of the great heroes of the Bible. We have done a four-part series on Elijah before, but we would like to look at his story afresh. A verse by verse retelling of the whole of Elijah's story. It also is an important part of the story of I Kings and the story of Israel in general. Elijah is a man that God asked to stand up against a culture going in the opposite direction of where Yahweh wanted his people to go. And yet, he had the bravery and determination to do what God asked him to do, no matter the cost. We need more Elijah's today.
The Kingdom of Israel is divided between Judah in the Southern half and Israel in the North. Judah is a mixed bag of King's: some good and some bad. But Northern Israel has nothing but bad Kings. They all did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. And they did it continuously. Culminating in the worst of the lot so far: King Omri. The Bible says he did more evil than all who went before him. So that is it. The worst. The Moat (Mostevil of all time). Except Omri wasn't the worst. Oh no. The worst, the King who took Israel to the greatest depths of depravity they had ever known, took the throne after his father Omri died. And this week, we meet him and his cruel and evil wife. The Bible states that King Ahab and Queen Jezebel did more evil than all who went before them, and they established Baal worship in Northern Israel to such an extent that the worship of Yahweh nearly became extinct. The future for righteousness and good and for following Yahweh seem bleak. The outlook is less than rosy. What will happen, and who exactly are Ahab and Jezebel? Listen on to find out. Turn to I Kings 16 - 17 to follow along in the Bible.
Five Kings of Northern Israel, and five Kings that it was said of them that they did evil continuously. What sins do you have to commit that the Lord writes EVIL over your story? It comes down to one basic thing, and you know what it is? Well, listen to this week's podcast to find out. To follow along go to I Kings 15.
This week we get to learn about a King called Asa. We nearly named one of our sons after him and his inspiring story. I hope this week's story will encourage you to not give up on doing what is right, even though no one around you wants to. You can easily get discouraged when you feel you are the only one trying to live for the Lord. I hope Asa's story will encourage you to keep doing the hard work of righteousness and NOT GIVE UP.
Two Kings who had every chance to do great. They were given blessing upon blessing by God. All they had to do was follow God and Him alone, and their thrones and reigns would be established forever. But their choices revealed their true hearts, and at the end of their lives, they were known as men who did evil in the sight of the Lord. Why? What was their great downfall? Listen on to find out.
Rehoboam is the King of Judah; Jeroboam is the King of Northern Israel. Sadly, Jeroboam is leading the 10 northern tribes away from the worship of Yahweh towards worshipping false gods. He began his own priesthood and his own sacred and high places. He created two golden calves where the people of Northern Israel came to pay homage to these false gods. Today's story shows God's grace to call His people back, but it also shows how quickly a people can choose to apostatize. Ultimately, Jeroboam is left with the choice: listen to the Lord and live, or listen to the voice of men and die. Which will Jeroboam choose? And what does a Lion have to do with it? Listen on to find out.
Rehoboam is the son of King Solomon and has inherited the throne from Father. At the age of 41, he ascends the throne and is now King of Israel. He heads to the town of Shechem to be crowned, but waiting for him is his Father's adversary: Jeroboam. Jeroboam has a proposal for him, and answering Jeroboam will change the course of both their lives. Listen on to find out how.
King Solomon has been granted wisdom from God. God has also blessed him with wealth beyond comprehension and success on every front for the nation he rules. God has rewarded him again and again, giving Solomon blessing upon blessing. So what does Solomon do in response? He starts worshipping other gods. Why did he do that? And how dumb can the wisest man in the world be? Listen on to find out.
Solomon is now the ruler of Israel. He inherits a kingdom that has its problems, but he also inherits a kingdom on the verge of breathtaking prosperity. Solomon sees the task before him, and it must seem daunting. But what is he to do? How is he to manage it all? He goes to sleep, overwhelmed by the thought of ruling as King, and then something happens. Something truly amazing. What is it? Listen on to find out. This weeks story is found in I Kings 3 - 11.
This is the final chapter in David's story here on earth. The man who went from shepherd boy to King, from the sweet psalmist of Israel to murderer. He was a complicated individual. But through it all, this one thing was constant, he was passionately loyal to one God and one God only: Yahweh. As usual, David cannot just go quietly into that good night. Hear the exciting last days of David on this week's podcast.
David is near the end of his life as we come to the end of 2 Samuel. In this story, we hear about David's last great transgression against the Lord, that of taking a census improperly. But there are some fascinating dimensions to this story that you have to hear, such as why the Lord incites David to sin by taking this census? Why is it the Lord inciting David in 2 Samuel, but in the parallel passage in I Chronicles 21, Satan is doing the inciting? And how did the Angel of the Lord factor in carrying out God's judgment against Israel? Make sure to listen to find out.
David is nearing the end of his life, and he is officially getting old. As David comes to the end of his life, he wants to remind the world of the 37 mighty men that helped him rise to power and his battles against Saul and later the Philistines. Who were these mighty men? What did they do? Listen on to hear stories of some of their exciting exploits. Turn to 2 Samuel 23 to follow along.
We are nearing the end of the life of David. In many ways, his story is coming to an end. The writer of 2 Samuel now pulls some exciting moments from David's life and places them in conjunction with a beautiful Psalm written by David. One of those moments that the writer picks is David and his men fighting giants named Goliath and Ishbi Benob. And one unusual giant who could probably type this summary a lot faster than me. Turn to 2 Samuel 21 - 22 to follow along.
David won and defeated Absalom. He is now KIng, for a second time. Great. But now what? How will David retake the throne? Will Israel accept him back with open arms? Is there another usurper around the corner waiting to try to stab David in the back? Listen on to this week's episode to find out.
David has to fight. Absalom has amassed his army of 12,000 soldiers and is ready to take on David's army of only 2 - 4,000 men. Vastly outnumbered, David will surely lose this battle. Or will he? David is considered a military genius, and he has a plan. Plus, he has Yahweh on his side; could he ever lose? Listen on to find out what happens. To follow along, turn to 2 Samuel 17, 18, and 19.
Hope. This week's episode is all about two perspectives on hope: one man in the depths of despair that still has some, and the other, at the top of the power structure, next to the King, who has none. How can this be? And who are they? Listen to this week's episode to find out. Read 2 Samuel 16 and 17 to follow along.
David and Absalom are finally reconciled . . . or are they? Absalom is working behind David's back, building a coalition of the discontented. And now is the time to spring the trap. WIll Absalom be successful? Will David lose his throne to his son? Listen on to find out. This story is found in 2 Samuel 15.
It looks like Amnon, the Crown Prince of Israel, got away with a heinous crime committed against his half-sister Tamar. It was a travesty that his father, King David, did nothing to enact some sense of justice in the situation. Amnon got off scot-free . . . or did he? There was someone watching; it was Tamar's brother Absalom. And he knew what happened. And like a patient hunter stalking his prey, he was waiting for the perfect moment to pounce. Here what happened next on this week's episode.
WARNING: THIS EPISODE HAS ADULT LEVEL CONTENT. Sadly, I have to use that disclaimer at the front, but it also reminds me once again of how scripture does not pull any punches. It tells the best and the worst of the people that inhabit its pages, and here is an example of the worst of humanity. This is one of the saddest stories in the Bible and one that I wish had never occurred. But it is also a story that we, as a culture, need to heed. It is a story that we, as parents, need to listen to, and it is a story that any young man or young woman today, needs to learn from.
David has just had committed adultery with Bathsheba, had Uriah the Hittite murdered, and now has a new beautiful wife and bouncing baby boy to boot. All looks great in the David household. But then, God comes to Nathan the prophet and tells him a story that he wants told to David. What is that story? Turn to 2 Samuel 12, and then listen to this podcast to find out.
This week's episode marks a turning point for the story of David. At this point, before he goes on the roof of his house, before he makes bad choice after bad choice, things are going great for David. God has just promised that from him would come a kingdom that would last forever, he was at rest from his enemies on all sides, and he had acquired so much territory for Israel that it was the largest it would ever be. Things are awesome. But in a moment, with just one immoral choice, David begins a downward spiral for his house and family that he will never recover from. And that slide downwards begins here, at this moment, and it has so much application for today and the sins that we struggle with as a culture.
David is now King and has rested for himself and Israel from their enemies. So as David has to do less running and less fighting, he has time to sit, and quite often, he sat before the Lord. One day he came up with a brilliant idea: to build a temple for Lord. Why should David have such a great house, yet the Ark of God is still housed in a tent? So he asks Nathan, the prophet, can he build the Lord a temple? Hear the Lord's reply through Nathan, and also what it means to talk to God.
David has just been crowned King. In his first days on the throne, he has to fight the Philistine army TWICE, and we get to see how Yahweh moves in miraculous ways on his behalf. He then decides to bring the Ark of the Covenant back to the center of Jewish life. He wants to bring the Ark to Jerusalem. It sounds simple enough, or is it? Listen to this week's episode to find out triumph and tragedy awaiting David.
In this episode, David is finally crowned King of all Israel. Samuel anointed him as the new King 15 years earlier, and now, at the age of 30, David becomes Israel's new king. But it wasn't easy, and it was quite a bloody affair. Hear how it all happened in today's podcast.
We start a new series on the life of David as King. What was it like to be King of Israel? How did David do as King of Israel? What were his successes, and what were his failures as King? To be King, you have to rise to become King, so we start in 2 Samuel with David as he begins his rise, and it all starts with one of the strangest battles you've ever heard. Turn to 2 Samuel chapters 1 and 2 to follow along.
He started so well, but in the end, it was said of him that the Lord killed him because of his "breach of faith" and because "he did not seek guidance from the Lord." How did Saul die, and how did he end up in such a sorry state? Listen to today's episode and determine not to end up like Saul. Make sure to read I Samuel 31 and I Chronicle's 10 to follow along.
It is a bad day for David. First, he was about to battle with the Philistines against his hometown people, the Israelites. Then he gets back home and what they discover makes his valiant men want to stone him. What has happened, and where is God in the middle of all this? Listen to this week's podcast to find out.
In this episode, we see David and Saul make some terrible decisions, but as always, there is something we can learn from them looking back. David's choice leads him to the precipice of having to go to war against Israel, his very own people. While Saul, well, he continues down a long road to the dark side and asks for help from a witch. How did we get here? What turn in the road led to here? Listen on to find out. This story is found in I Samuel 27-28.
David is hiding in the desert, still on the run from Saul. Well, guess who sells him out to Saul again: the mean old Ziphites. So Saul heads to the wilderness of Ziph with 3,000 of his troops to take on David and his 600 warriors with credit card debt. Who is going to win? How will David defeat Saul? Is this the end for him? Listen to this week's episode to find out what happens.
Road rage. Blowing your top. Being triggered. All different ways to talk about anger management issues. This week, we see David at one of his worst moments; he suffers from anger management problems. A guy named Nabal definitely triggered David, and now he is out not just to kill Nabal, but instead to wipe out his whole clan. That is, until a beautiful, intelligent, discerning woman steps in and saves the day. Who was it? Well, if your name is Abigail, you might want to listen to this week's episode and meet someone who should be your role model.
This episode usually is only available to our podcast subscribers, but I felt that this one should be heard by a larger audience because Ben has some great things to say about theology and art. Christian art is often lamented as being inferior, but as believers, we should have some of the best art. Well, that is what Ben, and I, feel. And I think Ben does a great job in revealing the way the Bible supports the arts, and that Christians are needed to make a difference in a wide array of artistic expression. Ben also shares the ways he brings his faith into the choices he makes as a professional actor. All good stuff, and only 10 - 14 minutes long. Well worth a listen.
David trusts God, even though his circumstances seem grim. Saul pauses to relieve himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. David has the opportunity of a lifetime to rid himself of his nemesis, but he chooses instead to honor God's anointed.
Have you ever felt deathly afraid? I mean that feeling in the pit of your stomach that something horrifying is about to happen? Well, this whole episode is full of fear: David is afraid of Saul, he's scared of King Achish, and sadly, in the end, David is scared of the growing insanity of King Saul. But behind it all, David trusts in God. Read Psalm 34, which David wrote probably during or soon after the events in this week's story, to see the faith David always carried even in the middle of his darkest moments.
In this week's Waxing the Dome aftershow, I am interviewing the program director of Trout Creek Bible Camp, Ben Tissell. In this episode, we find out his camp name, the fact that his name is entirely made up, and other interesting stuff. I am making it free this week, but usually, this episode is only available to Baldhead Bible podcast subscribers. Why not become a supporter for only $1 a month and never miss an aftershow.
David is going to be the new King. God has chosen him and rejected Saul, yet Saul is desperate to hang on to the Kingdom, even as he sees Ayhweh favoring David. Saul begins to be jealous of David, and his jealousy leads to anger, and it then leads to rage: a rage that is bent on killing David. Will he succeed? What will happen? Listen to this week's story to find out.
David has been anointed King and is asked to come to play the lyre to calm the King's nerves. Why is King Saul so upset? Well, he is dealing with a demonic spirit and he is losing a battle to someone named Goliath. What is he going to do? Find out what happens by listening to this week's episode.
We begin this story with Samuel grieving over the failure and rejection of Saul. But God says to quit grieving and go to Bethlehem because He has found a new King and one that is truly devoted to Him. And you know who that is? Listen on to find out.
To obey is better than sacrifice, that is the truth Saul learns this week. But the sad thing is he learns it the hard way, and the kingdom is ripped from him and given to someone else. Hear this tragic story, and may we all learn from it.
Jonathan is brave and successful in battle. He eats honey not knowing it was against a new law Saul had rashly made. Jonathan is to be put to death, but his soldiers stand up for him.
Jonathan is the son of Saul and a man that we met for the first time in last week's episode. This week we begin to see the great faith that Jonathan had, especially in comparison to his father King Saul. It was a faith that made Jonathan climb a cliff and take on a whole army by himself. It is a faith from which we can learn a lot. The story is found in I Samuel chapter 14.
Saul gets impatient and doesn't wait for Samuel to make the Sacrifice before the battle. Saul just does it himself, and God is displeased. Saul's troops desert and Saul is humiliated in battle.
Samuel may have doubted Saul's kingship abilities initially, but when the Spirit of the Lord comes upon Saul, he becomes a force to be reconned with. Nahash, "the Snake" is afraid of no one until he meets Saul in battle. Tune in to hear this amazing account of God's mighty power, and Samuel's farewell.
So Israel finally has a king, their first one. What is his name? And have you heard the tribe he's from? Are we sure a human king can do better at being King than Almighty God? These are all the questions facing King Saul. Hear the unique way he found out he was going to be King, and how a man who could barely herd donkeys properly ended up the most powerful man in Israel.
Samuel has been a good judge over Israel, and as he gets older, you think he could ride off into the sunset with some honor and glory coming his way. But sadly, all is not well in Israel, and some of it falls at the feet of Samuel, but a lot of it comes from the people's desire to have a King. But they have a King, don't they? Listen to this week's episode to find out what happens.
Welcome to our latest aftershow. This week I am chatting with my good friend and spiritual mentor, Randy Miller. He is a graduate librarian at the Jerry Falwell Library at Liberty University. We talked about how we met, and also the unique way he ended up as a librarian. These aftershows are me chatting with unique individuals that I feel give some excellent insights on scripture, life, or they just are fun to talk with. This week this episode is free, but it usually is only available to our supporters. Check out how you can become a supporter for only $1 a month over at patreon.com/baldheadbible
National revival, what will it take? Do we want to see our country turn to the God of the Bible, to be a nation that calls Jesus their Lord? Well, the book of First Samuel has just such a story, and it shows us the possible way to see revival. And it begins with something called lamentation.
In this episode, we see Yahweh go to war, and he is fighting Dagon, the god of the Philistines. Who is going to win, and what do tumors have to do with it all? Listen on to find out.
Samuel's mother devoted him to the Lord's service and brought him to the temple where he is to be raised by Eli, the priest. Eli and his sons Hophni and Phineas, are corrupt and allowing the temple of Yahweh to fall into disrepute. What will happen to Samuel? Will he follow suit and be just like Eli and his sons? Listen to find out what happens.
I want to share the first episode in our newest waxing, the dome series on the book of Joshua. I will be interviewing Dr. Jeff Diedrich Assistant Pastor at Abundant Life Baptist Church in Washington, PA, for the next three aftershow episodes. I wanted to share the first one for free this week, but to hear the rest, you need to become a supporter of the Podcast for only $1 a month. Go to our Patreon page to find more details: patreon.com/baldheadbible.
This week we begin a new series on First Samuel, and right off the bat we are introduced to a little known biblical character, but someone you need to get to know better. Her name is Hannah, and the obedience she demonstrates is a model of what it means to walk by faith for believers of all ages.
This episode usually is only available to our podcast supporters. Still, since this podcast was more about Todd and his ministry, I felt it was worth offering free for everyone to hear. Todd and I had been discussing the book of Ruth, and I would encourage you to become a supporter for only $1 a month to listen to those, as Todd gave some great insights. But make sure to listen to this free episode of Waxing the Dome to hear about Todd and his call to minister in the rural heartland of Kansas.
This is the final episode in the series on the book of Ruth. In this episode, we see how God turned Naomi and Ruth's sadness into joy, and how their story is symbolic for what God can do in the lives of those who choose to be loyal to Him.
Ruth and Naomi are back in Bethlehem, home for Naomi, but foreign territory for Ruth. Naomi is happy but sad to return "empty" to the place she left ten years ago. How will these two make it in a society where they are dangerously close to being in financial and physical peril? Plus, this was the time of the Judges where people were even less concerned about the poor, the widowed, the marginalized. See how God takes care of these two women, and along the way, learn something about God's grace toward us.
I am making this week's Baldhead Bible Aftershow: Waxing the Dome available to everyone as I want to introduce you to Pastor Todd Burrow of Bennington Bible Church. This week we are talking about the book of Ruth as that is the new series that we are starting this week. This aftershow episode is free this week, but normally the waxing the dome conversations are only available to our supporters. So if this episode has piqued your interest and you would like to gain regular access to the aftershow, please consider being a supporter of Baldhead Bible Podcast for only $1 a month. By becoming a supporter at that level you will be able to listen to these 10 minutes or so aftershow podcasts where I talk theology and other stuff with my friends. Go check out the various levels that you can support the podcast at patreon.com/baldheadbible.
Welcome to the new series on the book of Ruth. This is a wonderful story of how God is with His people, and He rewards those who choose Him in the middle of a corrupt society. We begin by meeting Naomi and Ruth at one of the darkest moments in their lives when all hope seems lost. Will God protect His people, how will Yahweh provide for them? Listen on to find out.
WARNING: THIS STORY CONTAINS ADULT CONTENT. I would encourage all parents to listen to this podcast before deciding whether to let their child listen to this week's episode. It is one of the saddest and most brutal stories in the Bible. If it were a movie it would be rated R. But it is also a story that ends the book of Judges, and the writer put it there to make a point. And it is a timely reminder to our contemporary society as well: of what happens to a culture that decides to live by "doing what is right in their own eyes."
Things were bad during the period of the Judges. Israel turns more and more towards apostasy and away from Yahweh. The writer of Judges wants to give us examples of what life was like during this time, and so for the final chapters of the book, we will hear tragic stories of people turning from God. Sad stories, but meaningful stories that we can learn a lot from even today.
This is the final installment in the Samson part of the book of Judges, and boy does Samson go out with a bang. Sadly, it does not end well for Samson, but if he is going down, he is going to take a bunch of Philistines with him.
Welcome to a new show for Baldhead Bible Podcast. It's called Baldhead Bible Aftershow: Waxing the Dome. This is where I chat about stuff that intrigues me in the story I just told, or I share extra content that I was not able to include because of time, or I interview unique and interesting people that can give some insight on the book or character we are currently studying. For the premiere episode of Waxing the Dome, I am interviewing one of my best friends, Pastor Chad Wagner, and I am getting his take on the book of Judges. In this episode, we learn the judge with whom Chad would choose to hang out at a coffee shop, and Chad's love for crunchy peanut butter. Baldhead Bible Aftershow: Waxing the Dome is free this week, but, starting next week, it will only be available to our BHBP supporters. To find out more, go to https://www.patreon.com/baldheadbible
Everyone is beginning to know the name of Samson. In this episode, we hear about three exploits of Samson that were so amazing, so miraculous, that the Philistines began to fear his name. What were those fantastic feats that struck fear in the hearts of every Philistine? Listen on to find out.
Samson is a young adult now, and he has decided to get married. A time for rejoicing, right? Well, as we will see with Samson, he tends to live for himself, and this is no different. He's breaking the heart of his parents by marrying a Philistine woman, and he is continually breaking his Nazarite vow with seemingly no notice of God in his life. Yet God chooses to use him despite his failures, and this story is as much a story of the grace of God as it is of Samson. Listen to hear more.
Now we begin the story of probably the most famous Judge of them all. He was big, he was brawny . . . or was he? What does the Bible tell us about the man Samson? This week we learn about Samson's birth and the encounter his parents had with the pre-incarnate Jesus.
Jephthah defeated the Ammonites, and with it, he saved Israel from years of oppression. Great news, he's a hero, and all of Israel should spend some time rejoicing and celebrating this victory. But no sooner had Jephthah secured the victory, than a group of whiners and complainers more concerned about their pride and recognition showed up. What's Jephthah going to do? This group was so full of anger that they threatened to burn Jephthah's house down. What is Jephthah going to do?
Abimelech is dead, but the land of Israel remains in a chaotic mess. And this week we meet a judge who ends up adding to the confusion. But before that, we meet two Judges who made a positive difference: Tola and Jair. So, listen on this week to hear about two positive Judges, followed by Jephthah the judge who should have just kept his mouth shut.
As the book of Judges moves forward, we will begin to see the country of Israel begin to spiral further and further down into apostasy. The end of Gideon's life was problematic, and now we see the fruits of his bad behavior manifest themselves in the life of his son Abimelech. This is a sad story, but one that should be a good reminder of what it means to pass on a godly heritage to your children and to those you influence.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint, and Gideon's life demonstrates this fact. He started so well and demonstrated a weak faith at first that slowly grew stronger and stronger as he continually put his faith in Yahweh. And then he triumphs in battle with a small force of Israelites, against a massive army of the Midianites. You would think after seeing Yahweh provide for him and his people, that Gideon's faith would never falter, that he would always remain loyal to God. But in the end, the life of Gideon demonstrates that starting well does not mean you will end well.
Gideon is now ready to take on the Midianite army. He is hopelessly out-manned, the odds are stacked against him, he probably is left with the worst fighters of the bunch, and yet this is exactly where God wants him to be. Why? Listen to find out why. To follow along in your Bible go to Judges chapter Seven.
Gideon is now ready to fight, and he is prepared to take on the Midianite army. The odds are stacked against him, but Gideon has decided to trust in God anyway and to step out in faith boldly. But God says, not yet Gideon. I have one more set of circumstances I need to take you through. I need you to understand that I want to get all the glory for this victory, Gideon, not you. So what is God going to do? How is he going to stretch Gideon's faith, while accomplishing the triumph? Find out by listening to this week's podcast in our ongoing series on the book of Judges.
Gideon has been called by God to lead his people in battle against the Midianites. He is called to be a Judge, what an exciting honor. But for Gideon, it is a scary proposition, because one of the first things he has to do is to tear down the altar his father built to the Midianite god Baal. Will he do it? Will Gideon step out in faith and obey God, even at his home? And what if he doesn't? What if he fails the test? Listen to this week's episode to find out what happens next as we work our way through the book of Judges.
This is a repost of an earlier Podcast on the character of Gideon. I did not want to jump to the next Judge and it seemed fitting to republish that earlier podcast to keep the continuity going through the book of Judges.
The Jewish people rally under the leadership of Ehud, but the minute he dies, they are off pursuing other gods again. So God sends a Canaanite King to oppress His people for twenty years, to bring them back to Him. God also uses two women of faith to do His will and to accomplish one of the most significant military victories of the day. Listen on to hear the exciting story of Deborah, Barak, and Jael
As Israel begins to slide into apostasy, God sends them oppressors to bring them back to him. The first of these oppressors is a King with the dubious title of King of Double Wickedness. Things are pretty bad, and the people of Israel begin to suffer, so who will save them? Enter the Judges. Listen on to hear the story of the first three Judges, and what some have called the first-ever locked room mystery.
The nation of Israel has taken back the Promised Land, all that is left is to remove the pockets of Canaanite resistance, and the land is theirs. Joshua reminded the people, as did Moses before him that the key for taking back the land is always to love Yahweh, never to stop following Him. Sounds easy, right? Be utterly devoted to God, and you will be unstoppable. No problem. But as we shall see, the people of Israel found this command much harder to accomplish, and the book of Judges is all about the spiritual death spiral that the Jewish people proceeded to enter. It is a sad story of apostasy and of pursuing other gods besides the one true God. But it will also be full of exciting stories of the men and women God raised to protect His people and to bring them back to Him ultimately.
The final perspective we are going to look at within the Christmas story is that of the Magi and King Herod. Who were the Magi? Where did they come from? What was the star? And how was it in the East, but the wise men then went West? And who is King Herod? How evil was he? And how does this all relate to the story of the birth of Jesus? Listen to this week's new episode to find out.
So while Mary was giving birth, there were a bunch of shepherds watching over their flock's by night. Just your run of the mill scruffy shepherds. Or were they? Listen to this episode to find out more about them and how these shepherds were part of a much bigger story than you could ever expect. Make sure to follow along in Luke Chapter Two as you listen to this weeks episode.
Joseph and Mary heading to Bethlehem to register to be taxed, and sadly the town of Bethlehem has no room for them at their average motel, so Mary has to give birth to Jesus in some ratty old stable somewhere far from home. This is the traditional story, but is this what happened, is this the story told in scripture? Join us this week for part two in the nativity story and find out the real story. Turn to Luke chapter 1 and 2 to follow along, as well as Matthew chapter 1.
This series will follow the Christmas story as found in the book of Luke but will sprinkle in other facets of Jesus' birth from the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. We begin the story of the birth of Jesus with hearing the fantastic story of the miracle of John the Baptist's birth and how Zechariah and Elizabeth came to understand more intimately than ever before the truth that with God, "nothing is impossible."
Joshua is on his death bed at the advanced age of 110. He calls for all of Israel to come and hear his last words. He has important things to say, important truths that Yahweh wants him to pass on to His people, and by extension, to pass on to us today. What were those truths? Well in many ways his two farewell speeches could be summed up in one idea. Find out what that eternal truth is by listening to this weeks episode.
As we near the end of the series on Joshua, we are going to hear the story of how the Promised Land was divided. You would think that after fighting the Canaanites together that sharing the land up would be easy for the Jewish nation, but human nature being what it is, this ended up being no easy task. Hear the story of how each tribe got its allotment and how civil war nearly broke out. But ultimately hear the story of a God who keeps His promises despite the failings of His people.
How long would you be willing to wait on and trust in the promises of God? How long would you be willing to wait for God to fulfill a direct promise that He made to you? A year, a decade, how about fifty? This week we come to the conclusion of the series on Joshua, and we get to see two old friends reunited, and we get to hear the story of Caleb, a man who personifies what it means to live by faith in the promises of God while patiently learning to wait on God.
Do you believe in miracles? Well, do I have a miracle for you. This week we get to hear the exciting story of Joshua leading his army into battle but then asking Yahweh to intervene in a dramatic and miraculous way. What was that way? Listen on to find out, and believe once again in the power of almighty God to accomplish what He desires, even the most majestic of miracles. Read Joshua chapter 10 to follow along.
Joshua and the Israelite's have had success in battle after battle. Clearly, the Lord is on their side as they break the back of the Canaanite resistance. But often when we have success, something else can come along, and its called pride. And when pride rears its ugly head, all sorts of problems can occur. Hear how the Gibeonite's took advantage of the arrogance and pride of Joshua to seal for themselves the deal of the century, while Joshua has to eat a lot of humble pie.
At this point in the conquest of Canaan, the people of Israel are discouraged. They just found out one of their own was working to bring sin and defeat to the nation, they had just been humiliated in the first battle for Ai, and now what? What does God want them to do next? Is God even on their side anymore? Hear what happens next and to find out about our loving, redemptive God who always gives His people a second chance.
The Israeli army is moving from victory to victory, seeing the hand of Yahweh fight on their behalf over and over again. So, with the city of Ai as their next target, why should they be afraid? Its smaller than Jericho, and they cannot lose with God on their side. Or can they? What could remove the blessing of God from their nation? Listen to the tragic story of Joshua and Achan to find out.
So here, Joshua faces his most significant test: how is he supposed to penetrate the impregnable fortress called the City of Jericho? How is he supposed to lead his army against those mile-high impenetrable walls surrounding the city? How? As Joshua pondered the difficult task ahead of him, God showed up just at the right moment to encourage him and to prepare him for battle. How did God show up, and what was the crazy battle plan that He laid out for Joshua? Listen to this week's episode to find out.
Joshua hears a good report from the two spies and is instructed by God to begin the march into the Promised Land and war. But to begin the battle, they have to cross the river Jordan, which in the Spring is at flood stage and a treacherous, raging river. How is he supposed to get 2 - 3 million people across? Listen on to this weeks episode to find out.
Joshua is about to begin the conquest of Canaan land. So he sends out two spies to check out the land and in particular to find out more about the city of Jericho. Listen on to find out what happens next.
Joshua is asked by God to be strong and courageous. Why? Joshua has to lead the nation of Israel into a holy war of immense proportions, and he has to follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest men to ever walk the face of the earth, that being Moses. Can he do it? Can he accomplish the great task God has set before him? Listen to this weeks episode to find out.
The flood is over, and Noah and his family have been given a new mandate from God. To go forth and fill the earth with the glory of the Lord. Sadly, very quickly, sin reared its ugly head, and the descendants of Noah did not follow God and chose to rebel. Hear what happens next in this weeks episode.
Noah and his family were the only ones alive after the flood came. Of a population numbering in the billions, there are only 8 left. What was it like being on the Ark during the storm, how long were they on the boat. Listen to this week's episode and find out.
Sin is rampant in the earth, to the extent that the Bible says the thoughts of humanity were nothing but continually evil. And on top of all that the earth was reeling from the sons of God and their divine rebellions. And when God saw this, He knew He had to take drastic action to save the planet; He knew He had to wipe all of humanity out except for one man and his family. Listen on to hear the exciting story of Noah and the Ark.
This week we look at one of the most challenging passages of scripture in the Bible, but also one of the more fascinating stories as well. We hear the story of a divine transgression and a growing rebellion against God. What will happen? Listen on to find out. This story is found in Genesis 6.
With the death of Abel, Cain is cursed to wander by God. He tries to overcome the curse by creating a city and by producing children of his own. Eve gets pregnant again and delivers another boy named Seth. And with the birth of Seth, people begin to call upon the name of Yahweh for the first time. The families that come from Cain and the ones that come from Seth: both include some amazingly talented people, but spiritually they are headed in entirely different directions. Listen to this weeks episode to hear more about these two families, and what they mean for the world before the flood.
This series tells of the antediluvian people, and Cain and Abel illustrate how quickly sin spirals.
Jacob is about to meet his family for the first time in years, but that also means meeting his brother Esau. Jacob thinks this will be his hardest challenge yet, but little does he know that he is going to come head to head with an even greater opponent: God Himself.
Jacob is blessed b God and, begins to be very wealthy and prosperous. He learns that his in-laws have started to resent him for it, and has to flee once again. Will his wives cooperate, or will they foil his plan.
What would you do if you met the love of your life? Would you be willing to work seven years just for the right to marry her? And what if when the wedding day came, your father in law played a horrible trick on you? Amazingly, the Bible contains a story that has all these elements and more. Listen to this weeks story to hear all the exciting details.
Have you ever had a dream so wonderful, so awesome that it changed your life? This week we get to hear the story of God coming to Jacob in a dream, to let him know in a powerful and dramatic way, that He promises to never leave him and to encourage Jacob just when he needs it the most.
He knew from early on he was to lead, that he had a special call from God. But it looked like his Dad was going to give it all away, to his older brother who didn't deserve it and certainly wouldn't follow God with it. What is Jacob going to do? He needed that blessing, he wanted it more than anything, and he would stop at nothing to obtain it. Listen on as we begin the first episode in a new series on the life of Jacob.
Last time we left Paul, he was a prisoner of Julius the centurion sent to bring Paul as a prisoner to Rome to face trial. But we left them on the Isle of Crete, about to set sail in scary waters. They wanted to get down the coast to a better town to spend the winter before continuing on to Rome. Paul says to stay where they are, but the ship's Captain says to sail on. Who will Julius listen to? Listen on to find out.
Paul was called by God to preach to Caesar himself, and so he was determined to go to Rome, Italy. Hear the story of his arrest and his sailing to Rome. Will he get there safely, will he preach to Caesar? Listen on to find out.
Paul and Silas are now in the city of Philippi and have begun to spread the gospel into Greece and outside of the Middle East for the first time. They preach the gospel and begin to see souls saved in the town, but Satan is hostile to the spread of the good news and sends a demon-possessed girl to disrupt the gospel's advance. Listen to this weeks episode to find out what happens next.
Many people are looking to kill Saul. After his miraculous conversion, Saul is now a disciple of Jesus, a follower of The Way. Saul has to get out of Damascus, but how will he do it? The only entrances to the city are heavily guarded, but he needs to get back to Jerusalem to meet with the head disciples. How is he going to do that? Listen to this weeks episode to discover how.
Saul is trying to destroy all the followers of the Way, and he was successful to the point where many believers had to flee Jerusalem. As part of his persecution of Jesus followers, he went to Damascus to wipe out any believers that were there. But little did he know that God was going to meet him and completely change his life in a dramatic way.
This week we start a new series on the life of Paul. We begin where we first hear the future Paul mentioned when he was known as Saul and as he was orchestrating the death of Stephen the first Christian martyr. Turn to Acts Chapter 6 and 7, and join us as we begin the story of Paul and we meet a remarkable man named Stephen.
Haman thinks he has won the day and is about to see the extermination of the Jewish people, and also the death of his mortal enemy Mordecai. But God is on the move, and He has a plan to use Esther to protect his chosen people. Listen to today's episode to find out how.
This week we meet the sinister Haman the Agagite for the first time. Haman is a powerful official in the court of King Xerxes, and he hates Mordecai for not bowing down to him, and also because Mordecai is a Jew. So he seeks to not only kill Mordecai but to wipe all of the Jewish people off the face of the earth. Will he be able to accomplish his nefarious deed? Listen to this weeks episode to find out more.
Esther stands on the threshold of being elevated to a position of prominence in the Persian empire or about to be forgotten, remembered no more, just one of the thousands of Xerxes concubines. What will happen? Will she be chosen, or forgotten? Turn to Esther chapters 3 and 4 and listen to today's story to find out.
This week we begin the story of a young girl named Esther. We meet Esther as she is about to join a group of women who have the chance to become the next Queen of Persia or spend the rest of their days housed in essentially a women's prison. How did Esther get here and why is the King looking for a queen? Join us this week as we dive into the exciting story of Esther and see how God takes care of His people and keeps His promises.
The final, dreadful plague causes the Pharaoh of Egypt to finally let the people of Israel go. Moses leads the people out of Egypt as they begin to head towards the Promised Land, but sadly, Pharaoh changes his mind and tries to chase them down. Moses sees the approaching chariots of Egypt on one side and the Red Sea on the other. He has nowhere to go. Why would God work in miraculous ways to get Pharaoh to let His people go, only to have them slaughtered in the desert? What will happen? Listen to this weeks episode to find out what happens and how God protects His people and has Moses leads the people through the Red Sea.
In this episode we will see God's call to Moses through the burning bush, Moses performing miracles in front of Pharaoh to confirm his call, and the plagues Moses calls down upon Egypt so that they will let his people go. There is a lot of exciting stories and information to learn about in today's episode, so lets jump right in.
This week we continue the story of Moses. He rises to power in the Egyptian court, but then murders a man to help his Hebrew brothers. Moses is now on the run, but what will become of him? If you have ever made bad choices and wonder where God is in the middle of that, then this weeks story is for you. Be encouraged that even in the middle of grave mistakes, God still moves.
Turn in your Bibles to Exodus chapters 1 & 2 and follow along as we begin a new series on Moses. Imagine yourself as a 4th-6th grade camper at Trout Creek Bible Camp and enjoy this live recording.
Daniel is now in the court of King Darius, and once again he rises to the top. He so impresses the King that he is put in charge of everyone, second in command to only the King himself. This does not sit well with the other officials in the Kingdom, and so they set about trying to find a way to ruin Daniel. Will they be able to do it, will Daniel be brought down and destroyed? Listen on to find out . . .
Daniel is now in his 80's, and he is once again called in to decipher what the God of Heaven is trying to tell a prideful, pagan King. But this is not a dream, or a vision, instead, this King saw something terrifying. What is it? Listen on to this weeks episode to find out.
King Nebuchadnezzar was one of the most powerful Kings of all time. He once ruled all of the known world; millions cowered in fear at his name. But God wanted this proud King to know where his power came from and he gave him a dream so scary, so earth-shattering, that the only one able to interpret it was Daniel. What was this dream? Listen to this weeks episode to hear how God used Daniel to help remind the King that all glory should be given to God.
In this episode, Daniel interprets a dream and then watches as his friends Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego are threatened to be thrown into a fiery furnace unless they bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's idol. Man, this is a lot for Daniel to handle, but listen on to hear how God works on behalf of His children and be encouraged.
Daniel finds himself in Babylon and the court of King Nebuchadnezzar. He has excelled in all the learning of the Chaldeans and risen to become part of the wise men class of Babylon. But now that class is under threat of being wiped out by King Nebuchadnezzar, he has called for the extermination of all the wise men in Babylon, and that includes Daniel and his three friends. Why? Well listen on and to find out why, and to hear the exciting story of Daniel and how God used him to show that He is sovereign over all.
Your city is being besieged by the most powerful King on the planet. That same King eventually takes and rips you from your family, your friends, and all that you know, and takes you 500 miles away to his capital Babylon. This King and his culture hate your God, despise your faith, and now seek to change you from following the one true God Yahweh to one of their false idols. WIll you do it? After all their offering you wealth, success and all the finest things their culture has to offer. All you have to do is obey and follow their god. Would you do it? Welcome to the story of Daniel and his four friends. We start this week looking at one of the best examples in scripture of what it means to live by courageous faith. May we learn to have that same faith today, and to dare to be a Daniel.
The final installment in the Gideon series where we see God give the victory to Gideon over the Midianites. But how? How does a small band of 300 men win the day against an army of 135,000? Listen on to find out how and to hear this miraculous story and to be encouraged that we still serve that same God today.
So God has called Gideon to lead His people in the fight against the oppressive force of the Midianites. Gideon passed the test of faith in destroying his Father's idol center to Baal. But God has another test for him, a test that will show Gideon that it is important for God to let His people know that their life and future are in His hands and that we should do all things for the glory of God.
Gideon was called by God to lead his people to overthrow the Midianites, to be the next Judge to free Gods people. But before he can lead, he has to pass a test, a test of faith. God calls Gideon to tear down his father's worship center in his own home town. Will he do it, will Gideon follow God and pass the test? Listen to this weeks episode and find out.
In Judges 6 we meet the character of Gideon. When we meet him, he is very afraid, and wondering whether God had abandoned His people Israel as they were currently under the oppressive thumb of the Midianites. But instead of abandoning His people, God had a specific plan to restore the fortunes of His children, and that plan included Gideon leading the way on an adventure like no other. Listen to this week's podcast to hear all about Gideon and the call of God on his life.
Finally, Jonah is ready to go to Nineveh and prophecy on behalf of Jehovah. He survived being swallowed by a great fish, and now he heads to one of the greatest cities in the Assyrian empire, an empire which was also one of Israel's greatest enemies. How will he be received? Will the Ninevites listen, or will they turn in anger and kill him? Join us this week for the exciting conclusion to the story of Jonah.
Jonah in a fit of selfish pride asked to be thrown overboard from the ship, rather than witness to the sailors onboard, or even obey God and head for Nineveh. In Jonah Chapter Two we find that Jonah gets his wish, and he is now swimming for his life in the middle of the Mediterranean Ocean. What will happen to him, will God fulfill His plan for Jonah's life? Join us this week as we find out the next step in the life of Jonah.
Last week God called Jonah to preach to the Ninehvites, but then he runs in the opposite direction. We find him this week at the port of Joppa desperately trying to leave God behind him. So Jonah thinks, to get away from God, I need to get as far from Israel as possible. Will he accomplish this, will he continue to run from God? Join us this week as we learn more truths from the story of Jonah.
This week we will be in the book of Jonah as we here his story as Jonah hears from God for the first time in a long while, but what he hears does not please him, and so Jonah begins to run from the call of God on his life. Will he succeed, and what is it about the prophecy God wants him to proclaim that bothers him so much. Join us this week as we find out more about the amazing story of Jonah.
In this final episode we see Elijah stand for Yahweh and defeat the 450 prophets of Baal, but then run in fear from a threat from one solitary Queen. Why? Where did his faith go? Join us this week as we see that Elijah is a flawed human being, yet God still chooses to use him to accomplish great things. If you want to follow along in your Bible, turn to I Kings chapter 19 as we see that Elijah is human after all, and how sometimes, the best thing people need is a good nights sleep.
Elijah was one prophet against 450 prophets of Baal. Elijah, one farmer, turned prophet against King Ahab and all the might of Israel. It looks hopeless, surely one man can't beat 450 other men? Well, listen on this week as we hear the exciting story from I Kings 18, who will win? Let's find out. But in reality, this is not a battle against flesh and blood, but instead, it is a battle between Yahweh and Baal, and a struggle for the soul of the nation of Israel.
Last week I introduced you to the character of Elijah and how he was called by God to confront the wicked King Ahab and then how God took care of him through the miraculous means of the Ravens. In this weeks episode, Elijah is still on the run from the evil King Ahab and his Queen Jezebel. To keep him safe God sends Elijah to the country of Sidon and the home of the widow of Zarephath. Will Ahab and Jezebel find him? How will God provide for Elijah this week? Join us this week as we continue the story of Elijah in Kings 17.
We begin a new series on the life of the prophet Elijah. Elijah worked as a farmer until he was called by God to confront a mighty King. Join us this week as we peek into the life of Elijah and see what God can accomplish through a life wholly devoted to Him. As we navigate the life of Elijah, we will see the fantastic adventure God takes Elijah on, including miracles and incredible acts of God that demonstrated Elijah was indeed a man called of God.
We finally get to hear the conclusion to Joseph's story. From humiliation to honor, from poverty to prosperity, we get to see how the whole time there was God working all things for Joseph's good and ultimately for His glory.
Have you ever wondered what God is doing in your life when the story your living seems to make no sense? When turn after turn of your journey seems to end up in failure or another discouraging dead end? Well, Joseph knows how you feel, but it is also through his story that we can learn to trust in God, not lose faith, to hope that even though it makes no sense to trust and believe that God is working out something beautiful in your life.
Abandoned, sold into slavery, entirely forgotten by his brothers., what will happen to Joseph now? Join us this week as we continue the story of Joseph as he works for Potiphar, has to fend off temptation, and in the end, we see God working behind the scenes to accomplish His will in Joseph's life. To follow along in the Bible, turn to Genesis 39.
We meet Joseph at the bottom of a well, left for dead. How did he get there? Earlier Joseph was on top of the world, the favorite of his father Jacob, the new owner of a beautiful, expensive, coat of many colors. But now, what will happen to him? Tune in and listen to the beginning story of a new series on the story of Joseph. If you want to follow along in the Bible, turn to Genesis 37 as we dive into the story.
In the final episode of the series on the life of Abraham, we see God putting Abraham through one final test of faith, but this test is the biggest one yet. Yahweh asks Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac as a burnt offering to him. Will Abraham do it, will Abraham walk by faith and obey God even though what He asks seems to make no sense? This week we will be delving into Genesis 22 and the story of Abraham offering his son Isaac as a burnt offering to the Lord. We will learn a lot from the story on what it means to walk by faith in the promises of God, especially when obedience seems to make no sense.
The Bible says that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6) and this week we get to hear the story of a time in Abrahams life when he may have been tempted to give up on the promises of God and to quit walking by faith. But then God asks him the question "Is there anything too hard for the Lord?" Join us this week as we jump to Genesis 18 and discover more of what it means to trust God, even when we face impossible odds.
Abraham steps out in faith and follows God to the promised land, but when he gets there he meets famine and hardship. Was he right to follow God, would Yahweh keep his promises to Abraham? Listen on to find out what happens as Abraham and Sarah are forced to head to Egypt.
This week we start a new series on the life of Abraham and it is an exciting one. Abraham is a prime example throughout scripture of what it means to live by faith, and this week we get to learn who he is, where he came from, and what it took for him to step out in faith and follow God.
Last week we left you on a cliffhanger: will Eve eat the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil or will she obey God instead? This week we're going to find out what happened and we get to learn more about God's plan of redemption and how He's going to redeem a people for Himself. So get ready for the final sermon of the series The Creation and the Fall.
This week we have an exciting story as we learn about two special trees in the garden and also what the serpent was and who the supernatural being is confronting Eve. We get to tackle some tough issues such as where did sin come from, what to do when we are tempted to sin, and how to trust the promises of God. Get ready for an exciting story as we dive further into the story of the Creation and the Fall.
Last week I left you on a cliffhanger as God came to the pinnacle of His creation, and you know what it was . . . ? Well listen on and find out.
This is the first podcast, and so we might as well start right at the beginning, where it all began. Get ready for part one of a four-part series telling the exciting story of the creation and fall of mankind. In this episode, we'll find out who created us, why we're here and why worldviews matter. If you want to follow along make sure to turn to Genesis chapter one.