Biblical Literacy Podcast

Mark continued in Romans 4:1-9 with Paul's focus on righteousness. Mark begins with Paul's background, training, and the origin of the Pharisees. The sect was formed to ensure the preservation of the Jewish temple and religion. Romans 4:1-9 Abraham was justified by faith apart from the law, so none get to boast. Jesus didn't come to abolish the Torah, but to help others understand it. God does the impossible Justifies the ungodly. God did not forgive the ungodly but transferred the guilt to Jesus. We are forgiven when we believe in Jesus' resurrection.   Rejoicing with King David   David speaks of the blessing of the one whom God counts as righteous.   Abraham was the father of all who believed, circumcised or uncircumcised.  Points for home •   The Bible speaks to our present age •   We worship a God who does the impossible •   We rightly rejoice Listen to Mark explain why Paul should stun us all because of his grace, humility, and love of Christ. He made a 180 degree turn from the traditional practices of the Pharisees to an apostle.

Mark interviewed a special guest during today's class: Dr. W. Scott Sager, minister, professor,speaker,community leader,and author based in Nashville,TN. Scott first shared some general background. He grew up in Fort Worth, Texas in a Christian family.His dad was a church song leader. He attended Abilene Christian University, studied at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, received his doctorate at Southern Methodist University, and currently teaches at Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN. He's married with two children. The Bible and teaching: Scott has a heart for campus ministry and previously worked as the Campus Minister at the University of Texas in Austin. He is currently preaching a year long series on di fferent characters of the Bible. Scott is an author, and his favorite hymn is “Great is Thy Faithfulness.” Listen to Mark dialogue with Scott about his growing up years through life today. Tune in to learnabout Scott‘s book and author recommendations. He has a fascinating analysis of Jacob in the Bible and what that means to us today.

Mark continued in the book of Romans with an emphasis on verses 3:20-31 through 4:1. The theme of today's lesson was based on the many Bible translations or interpretations today, especially focused on words in Romans 3:23-24. Faith and Christ Works will not justify us in God's covenant of faithfulness. The passage can read faith in, of,from,or through the saving work of Jesus Christ. Mark provides 5 criteria that translators use to argue the meaning of these verses. Boasting The best we have is not enough to qualify us for the kingdom of God. We can only boast of God's saving work for us. We are saved by faith. Boast only in the cross of Christ. Faith and Abraham God had our salvation planned before humans were formed in the Garden of Eden. His promise extended to Abraham a sinner, but one who trusted God and deemed righteous. Points for home: Be blessed, thankful, and grateful Listen to Mark give us a deeper understanding of these Roman verses according to various Biblical translations. Jesus Christ lived in covenantal purity. We will reach the same place even with different emphasis or views along the journey. Sin is worse than we think, and it requires God to deal with it. God is the Saver, and Jesus is the Savior.

5-25-25 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the study of Romans with a focus on the “gold" in Paul's words. This week Mark first provided some background and context, expanding on things shared from previous lessons, and then focused on Romans 3:21-26. Background and context: The Roman church was not full of lightweights. Paul produces a masterpiece with rhetorical features. Paul's letters are longer than typical at the time. Powerful and detailed to an audience who were sophisticated in biblical matters. Romans 3:21-26 But now: the righteousness of God has been manifested. We have all sinned and are justified by faith as a gift. Propitiation means to appease God's wrath. Numerous references to the mercy seat of the ark of the covenant. Sin must be punished. We have redemption in Jesus. Points for Home Can we talk about the awesomeness of God? Who can refuse? Blessed, thankful, grateful. Listen to Mark review the first three chapters of Romans, explain the tenses of Greek words that Paul used to show how the past influences the present. Righteousness looks to the past, applies to the present and the future. The cross is where God's justice and mercy are validated

5/18/25 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the book of Romans with insights into Romans Chapter 3:21-26 with an exploration into the Greco Roman language vs English. He divided the lesson as follows: 1. Explore the word group  Ancient Greek origin of “dike” which means, right, justice, punishment.  Translated into English it uses various words from other language origins.  Paul is using one word that means various English meanings: courtroom verdict, covenantal faithfulness, conforming behavior, or setting right what is wrong. 2. Work thru the passage  Greek concise argument of the power of the Gospel in saving sinful man.  The righteousness of God saves us. Dramatic intervention but not an afterthought. Plan from the beginning.  God is: all the meanings of “dike." 3. Work thru the harmony with points for home  Can we talk about the awesomeness of God?  Can we talk about what He has done for us?  Who can refuse? Learn from Mark's study how the Greek translation of Paul's letter has much deeper meaning to the reader. God cares about justice, mercy, and paid the price for us as illustrated in the Gospel-death, burial & resurrection of Jesus

05-11-25 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the study of Romans with an exploration Romans 2:12 - 3:21. Paul used his lawyer background consisting of a 3-pillar approach of persuasion: ethos, pathos, and logos to provide information to the Greco-Roman culture. His flow of logic included a power statement and logically or methodically based statements that were brief, complete, and concise to show God's judgment. Romans 2:12 - 3:21 All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory: without the law or under the law. No hope without God. We are saved by faith in Jesus Christ and belief in the Gospel or the Good News. Points for home: There but for the grace of God go! The Gospel is the power of God for salvation for those who believe. Listen to Mark show how Paul used the art and science of persuasion to show how we are saved from God's judgment. Praise to the Lord Almighty.

5-4-25 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued a study of Romans with a focus on Chapter 2:1-11, highlighting God's Principles of Judgment. The lesson was divided to discuss: 1. Paul's legal background as a Pharisee -Jewish legal background. Had their own court system based on the Torah. The great Sanhedrin was considered the Jewish Supreme Court. -Roman background. Citizen of Rome granting Paul considerable rights in the Roman court and recognized throughout the Roman Empire. 2. Romans 2:1-11 - Uses Legal Terms -People have no excuse or defense for committing sin and wrong to judge others. -God will dispense justice according to what they earned and render a verdict. -God shows no partially. The righteousness of the Good News. The Gospel of death, burial, and resurrection. 3. Points for home -I can't judge anyone -The Gospel is the power of God to save Listen to Mark teach about Paul's legal background, his knowledge of Roman and Jewish law, and those who influenced his life. Kindness, forbearance and patience rule the Christian life

4-27-25 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued the study of Romans with a focus on The Wrath of God. The lesson was divided to include: Ancient Greco-Roman thought at the time of Paul's writing the letter to the Romans  We naturally use our culture to understand the world around us.  They taught that moral blindness and error caused by the gods.  Paul can quote Greco-Roman philosophers who believed in many gods. Contrast Paul's text  People suppress the truth and not the gods.  The wrath of God is true, genuine, without excuse, and there is cause and effect.  Root cause is rebellion against God. Points for home  God longs for our redemption.  Awesome power of God. Listen to Mark show how Paul was informed about and contrasted ancient culture with the truth of the Gospel: death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of our sins. Paul is not ashamed of the Gospel. It brings the power of salvation and righteousness

04-13-25 Biblical Literacy  Marks continued the study of the book of Romans by focusing on Chapter 1 vs 16 & 17 and Paul and his family life long movements and the influence that each of the places he lived and the influences each location had on his life, his person and influences on his character. God died for our sins. The most simple thing about the Gospel is Christ Died for our sins. The most profound thing about the Gospel is Christ died for our sins. Paul grew up in Tarsus, which was a major intellectual center and traveled the area as a child and as a God- fearing adult. Those travels shaped his persona and his deep belief and praise for the Christ that he came to know beyond well. Mark focused On:  The literary context of Romans 1:16-17 Dissecting Romans 1:16-17  The Impact of Romans 1:16-17 Good writing habits were discussed relative to the introduction content, omit needless words, brevity, completeness, conciseness, while focusing on each word. The lesson continues with the techniques that are needed to deliver an argument that is clear and lucid, briefly set forth in a methodical way, and have the following qualities, brevity, completeness and conciseness. Mark discusses, in detail, the use of the key words in Romans 1:16 & 17, Gospel, Power and Righteousness. Get Ready for Easter Weekend;  “For the word of the Cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being Saved it is the POWER OF GOD” 1-Cor 1:18

4-6-25 Biblical-Literacy Mark taught the second lesson in Romans with an emphasis on the beginning verses of chapter one. Paul wrote Romans around 55AD. Mark breaks down the lessons: Paul's Salutation to the Romans He is a servant of Jesus Christ. Called to be an apostle to share the Gospel. Grace and peace.  Paul's Prayer Thank God for the Romans' faith and prays for their strength.  Paul's Theme Paul is not ashamed of the Gospel: the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. It is the power of God for salvation. Mark will devote next Sunday's lesson to expanding on Paul's theme. Points for home: There is a lot to be praying about in this world Amazing news of the Gospel That is worth singing about Listen to Mark review lesson 1 and share insights into today's lesson. Paul's opening shows his humility, love for God and the Romans, and his commitment to spreading the Gospel.

3-30-25 - Biblical-Literacy Mark Lanier began a new series on Romans. Today's focus merged how to study an Epistle and began an introduction into the book of Romans. 1. How to study Romans, an Epistle, in 8 basic steps.  Historical context  Literary context  Textual analysis  Paragraph exegesis  Theological analysis  Application  Mix-in others  Constant ongoing reflection 2. The occasion of the letter - Mark explains historical context that result in the church in Rome consisting of both Jewish and Gentile Christians with an appeal for unity. 3. The opening of Romans - Learn how Romans differs from Paul's other epistles in his introduction which includes the author, recipients and a greeting. Points for home  God works through history  Gospel is amazing news  You are loved, called, and forgiven

Mark taught lesson 2 on How to Study the Bible with a focus on the genre of Poetry. The lesson's three points: 1 A little Bible background: Old Testament written mostly in Hebrew. New Testament written mostly in Greek. Afterward and primarily due to the dominant language of the Roman Empire the scriptures were translated into Latin. 2. Reading different passages: Psalms are various styles of poetry or songs. Learn about the types of parallelism and how they help in understanding poetic scripture. 3. Points for home in reading the Psalms Think about it Pray about it Enjoy the banquet Listen to Mark expound the history of the Bible, and the origin of the reference Old Testament and New Testament and our privilege to access the Bible. Enjoy the Psalms, the power of a repetition and the beauty of language.

The Bible states we should study the Bible to know Scripture and the power of God. Mark then spent time in 1. What's are we doing when we study the Bible? God entrusted His Words through people: Scripture is inspired by God. There are 2 types of critical studies described as: Lower criticism which is foundational. Then Higher criticism follows. Mark cautions us not to rely on only one Scripture translation, commentary versions, the internet, or linguistic substitutions. 2. How do we study the Bible? This will be covered next week. 3. Point for home - Explore the riches of God's Word. Listen to Mark explain that the prophets or speakers of God inspired by the Holy Spirit wrote the scrolls that make up books of the Old Testament. Listen to Mark explain that the prophets or speakers of God inspired by the Holy Spirit wrote the scrolls that make up books of the Old Testament. The New Testament took form again from Holy Spirit inspired men and later confirmed thru Church councils again guided by the Holy Spirit.

3-9-25 Biblical-Literacy Listen to Mark expound on The Strange Woman and its meaning. Our choices impact our relationship with God, Family, Community as well as ourselves.. Mark taught the final lesson in the Lesser-Known Women of the Bible series with a focus on The Strange Woman and similar to Lady Widsom, this employs personification as a literary device. The lesson in 3 parts: 1. The Path Metaphor - Scripture teaches of good and bad paths, and those paths compete for our souls.Wisdom is the window into the character of God.mmThe early church is called the way. 2. The Deceptive Beauty - Contrasted with Lady Wisdom is The Strange or Foreign Woman/Way who is evil, folly, stupid, smooth words, attractive, seductive, and flatters lives outside the people of God. 3. The Consequences - Life, Death Points for home 1. Choose wisely 2. You get to pick 3. Daily choice

3-9-25 Biblical - Literacy Mark Lanier taught the final lesson in the Lesser-Known Women of the Bible series with a focus on The Strange Woman and similar to Lady Widsom, this employs personification as a literary device. The lesson in 3 parts: 1. The Path Metaphor Scripture teaches of good and bad paths, and those paths compete for our souls. Wisdom is the window into the character of God. The early church is called the way. 2. The Deceptive Beauty Contrasted with Lady Wisdom is The Strange or Foreign Woman/Way who isevil, folly, stupid, smooth words, attractive, seductive, and flatters lives outside the people of God. 3. The Consequences Life Death Points for home 1.Choose wisely 2.You get to pick 3.Daily choice Listen to Mark expound on The Strange Woman and its meaning. Our choices impact our relationship with God, Family, Community as well as ourselves.

03/02/25 Bib-Lit.docx Mark interviews three well known biblical scholars. Dr. Steve Ortiz Dr. John Manson Dr. Lawson Younger We are looking at our guests to enlighten us through scripture on: 1. How we See the World 2. How we See Scripture 3. How we See God Dr. Ortiz Grew up in LA and moved to Arizona with his wife and two children. He lived in Isreal and then back to New Orleans. He then left New Orleans and attended South Western Baptist Seminary and after that accepted a position as a Professor at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. John Manson was Born in Zaire which was the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 1971 to 1997. It was a country in Central Africa. He received hi PHD from Harvard University. Dr. Lawson Younger was a math major in college and following the words of 1 John 5:13 he suddenly realized that he could have eternal life, he changed his focus to learning Latin, Greek and Hebrew. All of this helped him understand the context of how scriptures were developed. They discussed how Burial was achieved in the Old Testament of the Bible. The belief was that the flesh decayed, along with it the sins of the dead and your spirit was raised into Gods Kingdom after that. It should be noted that Jesus raised from the dead in full body since he was without sin. Each of the guest were asked to talk about how their academic discipline enriched scripture in ways that can transform our lives. A great discussion took place concerning Tihlath-Pilser5 III, King of the Neo-Assyrian Empire from 745 BC to his death in 727. His reign marked the true transition of Assyria into an empire.

Mark Lanier 02/23/2025 Mark takes us on a very different experience in our study of Lessor Known Women in the Bible. Mark asks the question? Who am I ? 1. I help a King Rule Justly 2. I cried out in the streets and raised my voice in the Public Square 3. I was there when God set the heavens into place Wisdom: Wisdom in Hebrew is a feminine word and this realization shaped and framed the balance of the lesson. Lady Wisdom in the bible stands out from all other cultures. The lesson is delivered in three parts 1. The Literary devises of personification 2. Wisdom's role in Creation- Go back before creation 3. Wisdoms Public Call Mark goes through an in depth look at “Women” or it might be said the feminine gender of the Hebrew language in Proverbs chapter 8:3,4,15,22,24,26-33,34-36 + Mark's closing encouragement was to read the book of Proverbs one chapter a day until you have finished the book.

2-16-25 Biblical-Literacy Mark taught Lesser-Known Women of the Bible with an emphasis on unnamed but significant women. Anonymity can sometimes speak volumes. Why no name? Various reasons: to prevent embarrassment, the person is unknown or sometimes used as a literary device. Examples of the later could be to 1) elevate a universal significance as with the Shuminite woman, which provided a lesson in hospitality, 2) bring divine action to the foreground or 3) deliver a dose of irony. Today's lesson focused on 3 unnamed women in the Bible: Lot's wife: turned into a pillar of salt. She made a choice that had consequences. Luke 17:32-33 Jephthah's daughter: a rash vow causes his daughter to be a burnt offering. The widow of Nain: Jesus demonstrated compassion for her situation. Points for home: Remember Lot's wife Pursue God Don't be an idiot Never doubt the compassions of God Listen to Mark teach insights into unnamed women in the Bible. Listen to him share the power of faith in the affairs of life. This world is not our home

2-9-25 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued the series: Lessor Known Women of the Bible. This week's lesson focused on Job and his daughters. The lesson had three sections: 1. The journey through suffering - Job, a righteous man whom God had blessed with divine provision lost everything, including his children, health, and relationships. God responds to Job's questions by asking questions. 2. The significance of restoration - When Job prayed for his friends, he was restored. He received double portions as God's favor. The three daughters are named, described, celebrated. Names were prophecies in antiquity. -Jemimah. New beginning like dove after flood -Kezia. Valuable and beauty -Keren-happuch True beauty is a divine blessing Points for home:  We don't understand suffering  Be patient until the end  Suffering can transform Listen to Mark teach the wisdom of God exceeds our understanding. True wisdom often begin with humility. We will never understand God fully, but we can understand him truly. Faith first, then recovery. God's restoration exceeds our expectations.

2-02-25 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Capes led another lesson of Lessor Known Women ofthe Bible with an interview of Dr. Nancy Dawson, author of All the Genealogies of the Bible. Dr. Lawson received her doctorate in biology and always held an interest in theology. In this lesson she focused on three of the five women named in Matthew 1 who are part of the line of Jesus' genealogy. These three woman held the genealogy line for Judah: Tamar: Gentile not a Jew. Rahab: Gentile not a Jew Bathsheba: Jew and wife of Uriah. She held a special place in both the paternal/legal and biological genealogies of Jesus. Listen to Dr. Dawson explain the culture and customs of the times that placed these women in Jesus's genealogy with stories of repentance and symbolism. Points for home: God works through all things to complete His purpose. We must have faithful hope in God's plan. We are the privileged people to study God's word and live for Him.l

Dr. David Capes interviewed Dr. Federico Villanueva, regional commissioning editor for Langham Publishing and scholar care coordinator for current Langham Scholars in Asia. He teaches at the Asia Graduate School of Theology and Loyola School of Theology in Manila, Philippines, and is known for his focus on the church knowing the importance of lament as in the Psalms, Lamentations, and other areas of the Bible. Dr. Villanueva grew up in the Philippines. He is married with two children. He shared that lament comes from experiencing difficult situations and rises out of an intimate relationship and need for God. Without expressing lament, we risk losing our faith unless God steps in. The church needs both praises and laments / cries of the people. One should never become used to suffering in the world. During life, we experience a cycle of three seasons: orientation - when life is generally good, disorientation - when experiencing a tragedy, and then new orientation - thanksgiving. Listen to Dr. Federico Villanueva share his heart on how we are to bring our laments to God as prayers for help. There is room to be not-OK in our relationship with God. If we don't express our lament to God and trusted others, we can stifle our growth and intimacy with God and others.

Mark Lanier continued his series on Lesser-Known Bible Women with a study of Jael - Courage in a Crisis, from Judges 4:2 - 5:27. Mark divides the lesson into: 1. Context and Characters:  Israel is under oppression from the Canaanite army led by Sizer who has control of the Jezerel Valley. The people are regulated to the mountains where it is not suited for agriculture and the trade routes are blocked. Deborah was Israel's prophet and judge who commands Barak to lead Israelites into battle and defeat Sisera. Jael was a woman from a tribe friendly to the Canaanites who drives a tent peg into Sisera's temple. The Narrative Tension: Describes one story from 2 perspectives in Judges 4 and 5. 3. The theological implications (Take Home Points): God can use unexpected deliverers 2. God uses the everyday stuff 3. Have courage Listen to Mark teach how God works thru everything. He still rescues and provides for us despite time, culture, and circumstances.

Mark continued the series on The Lesser-Known Bible Women by focusing on Zipporah, Moses's wife, as found in Exodus 4:24-26. He unpacked the meaning behind her striking statement: “You are a bridegroom of blood.” The Context In Moses's time, culture dictated every aspect of life. Mark began by revisiting the pivotal moment of the burning bush, where God called Moses to lead His people out of slavery in Egypt. The Story Mark contrasted Moses's two departures from Egypt. The first time, Moses left alone, desperate, and powerless. The second time, God had provided for every need, equipping Moses for the mission ahead. Zipporah's act of circumcising her son reflects the covenant of blood—a foreshadowing of Jesus's ultimate sacrifice. Points for Home God is with you! God is with you in power! God is with you in covenant! Listen as Mark delves into the murky waters of Moses's life and culture, revealing how God made Himself known and displayed His immeasurable power. Don't miss this insightful message!

In this first lesson of 2025, Mark continues the Lesser Known Women of the Bible series by exploring the intriguing reference to the “elect lady” in 2 John.  Who is the lady? - A majority of scholars interpret the “elect lady” as a metaphor for the local church - the unified body of Christ chosen by God, living in truth and love. Central Theme: truth in Christ - Mark traces the overarching biblical narrative of God dwelling with humanity: from Eden to the Tabernacle, the Temple, the Church as Christ's body, and within each believer as His image-bearer. Truth is God's authentic and revealed word, never hidden but always genuine. Love and truth both originate from God's divine nature. Modern Application or Take home points:  The importance and power of community. Reflect on the lengths God goes to dwell with us. Are we walking with Him? Hold fast to truth and love in our daily lives. Discover how we are part of the “elect lady” and explore God's profound love and desire to dwell with us as we grow in His truth through His Word.

Mark taught the last class of 2024 which concluded the series of Lesser Known Women of the Bible using a passage in Luke 2 with a focus on 3 witnesses of Jesus's birth. -Witnesses of the Shepherds: Those who were of the lowest social standing, outcasts. Even the line of priests who raised lambs for the temple sacrifice were considered untrustworthy. -Witness of Simeon: God promised that Simeon would not see death until he saw Jesus. Simeon was in the temple when Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus for circumcision on the eighth day. -Witness of Anna the Prophetess: An elderly widow from the tribe of Asher, one of the lost tribes of Israel. A rare prophetess dedicated to God and His purpose. Take homes: Marvel at God's work Wait with patience Be a witness Listen to Mark offer insight into the lives and background of unlikely witnesses to the baby Jesus and how God used them including a lesser known woman of the Bible to proclaim the Messiah's birth.

Pastor Brent Johnson continued with the series, Lesser-Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist from Luke 1. Brent taught three points: 1. Aaron: Zachariah and Elizabeth were from the Levite clan. 2. Baron: Although righteous, Elizabeth was advanced in age, and felt shame and inadequacy in that culture. 3. Errand: Elizabeth served God by greeting Mary, acknowledging Mary's pregnancy, spoke of God‘s blessings and shared blessings for Mary. Take home: 1. Assembly required for the Christian 2. Be a blessing to others 3. God is at work 4. No excuses Listen to Brent teach about Elizabeth's difficult struggle with barrenness. Also listen to Holly Johnson speak about her personal experience with infertility and her faith journey. God sometimes works through impossible situations to accomplish His purposes.

Mark continued the series Lesser-Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Shiphrah and Puah, two of God's unlikely heroes. The Crisis: Egypt enslaved the Israelites when their increasingly large population became a threat. Pharaoh ordered the midwives to kill all newborn male babies.  The Courage: Midwives Shiphra and Puah faced the choice of living or killing the babies. They chose life and feared God. The Blessings: God gave the midwives families. Point for home: God often works through the smallest things to accomplish His purposes. Listen to Mark teach the new era of Egypt in which the Pharaoh did not know Joseph or care about the Israelites. Humanity tends to establish their own plans against God's will. This results in deliberate rejection not just lack of knowledge. Shiphrah and Puah are the first historical instance of civil disobedience.

Mark continued the series Lesser-Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Shiphrah and Puah, two of God's unlikely heroes. The Crisis: Egypt enslaved the Israelites when their increasingly large population became a threat. Pharaoh ordered the midwives to kill all newborn male babies.  The Courage: Midwives Shiphra and Puah faced the choice of living or killing the babies. They chose life and feared God. The Blessings: God gave the midwives families. Point for home: God often works through the smallest things to accomplish His purposes. Listen to Mark teach the new era of Egypt in which the Pharaoh did not know Joseph or care about the Israelites. Humanity tends to establish their own plans against God's will. This results in deliberate rejection not just lack of knowledge. Shiphrah and Puah are the first historical instance of civil disobedience.

11-24-24 Biblical-Literacy Pastor David Fleming continued in the series of Lesser Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Vashti from Esther Chapter 1. Dr. Fleming's roadmap for the lesson included: 1. Context: King Xerxses held a massive feast for seven days to show his wealth and power. Queen Vashti and ladies left, but other women joined the king and his guests. 2. Vashti's story: The king ordered Vashti to attend on day seven in a degrading fashion. She refused and the king responded by removing her as queen. We don't know if she was killed. She had dignity, self-respect, respect of others, and a place in history. 3. Points for Home / Application:  Identity core convictions  Find the courage to stand  Be confident in God's plan Listen to Pastor David provide the background to the culture and insight to the deprivation of King Xerses, Vashti's refusal, and why the book of Esther begins with Vashti. Pastor David challenges us to know who we are in Christ. It is not about us.

11-17-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark Continued in the Lesser-Known Women of the Bible series with a snapshot of the daughters of Zelophehad, five sisters from the tribe of Manasseh who changed the law. The story is from Numbers 26 and 27. 1. The story: Zelophehad had no sons, and his daughters ask Moses for their father's land. The Lord agrees. 2. The context. A person's name in the OT days was an identifier, character and actions, continuity of being or existence, community memory/placement, and spiritual: place in God's covenant. Land: theological significance. God's fulfillment of Abrahamic promise, a divine inheritance. The land ties the people to God. Economic reality. 3. The application. Points for home: 1) Reflect the name of Jesus. Our name is more than an identifier, It is our character and actions should reflect Jesus. 2) Our inheritance isn't land but in the saints and riches in Christ. Listen to Mark teach the courage and boldness of the five daughters of Zelophehad, the significance of names, the meaning of land, and the archeological proof of the sisters' existence and impact.

11-10-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the series Lesser-Known Women of the Bible. Today's woman was a "wise woman” from 2 Samuel 20, who helped save her city by turning over Sheba to Joab and his army. The storyline: Sheba was a worthless man who encouraged the northern tribes of Israel to rebel against King David. Worthless in those days meant not living for God, did not know God, and didn't use what he had to honor God. The woman termed wise was shrewd, crafty, and cunning. The contrast: Worthless leads to death, and wise leads to life. Points for home included these three passages: Prov 10:8 Prov 12:18 Prov 14:16 Listen to Mark teach on the culture and setting of this lesson's time. The nation under King David was a loose confederation of twelve tribes, not united. Mark's explanation of worthless and wise show us a better understanding of the people then and how we should live today.

Pastor David Fleming taught Lesser Known Women of the Bible with focus on Lydia from Acts 16 during Paul's second missionary trip. Pastor David share three areas of focus: 1. Story before the story: Paul was called from a dream to Macedonia. In Philippi, which had no synagogue, he and Silas gathered to pray outside the city gates by a body of water in prayer house. Paul found only women and met Lydia, who was a God worshipper. 2. Story of conversion: God opened Lydia's heart to pay attention, and she became a believer. 3. Story still being written: Lydia was baptized along with her household. She invited Paul and Silas to stay with her. They encouraged Lydia and all the new followers before leaving. Points for home: Lydia's story should challenge us. Lydia's story should inspire us. Lydia's story should encourage us. Listen to Pastor David provide insights into the culture and tradition of the time regarding women, and what it means for Lydia to be the first convert in Europe. Jesus radically transformed the role of women, and Paul followed in His footsteps. Women were vital in growing the first century church.

10-27-24-Biblical-Literacy Mark picked back up with the series: Lesser-known Bible Women with a focus on Judges 19. Mark shared some context for the storyline, what went wrong and some application points for home. Storyline: 1200 BC to 1040 BC. Israel is in the promised land. No earthly kings yet. A young woman of the Levite tribe is brutally murdered in the area of the Benjaminites. Her body is cut into twelve pieces and sent to the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. Eleven tribes war against the tribe of Benjamin. All the women and children are killed with unrighteousness actions and results and blame God for the situation! What went wrong: God was supposed to be king, but not in the eyes of the Israelites. Points for home Is God your King? I hate sin! How are you treating those on the edges of society? Listen to Mark teach the challenges of culture and timing when understanding stories of the Bible.He shares the status and meaning of a pilegesh or what has been translated in English as concubine during the times of Judges. This story shows what happens when God is not King, and everyone does what they believe is right in their own eyes.

10/13/2024 Bib-lit Class Synopsis Dr. Esau McCauley Mark interviewed Dr. Esau McCauley, an incredibly focused and jovial Messenger of God's word. Dr. McCauley is a Professor at Wheaton College. He discusses his child hood growing up in a God loving home and learning about the Bible from a “Cartoon Bible” which he read with great diligence. He was born in 1979 and he was raised in Huntsville Alabama. His mom taught him that he could be whatever he wanted to be and he chose a Christ filled life. He discussed, in detail, the impact the Bible has on living a Christian life and how he studied the various languages the Bible were written in such as Greek, Hebrew and Aramaic. He attended Gordon Conwell Theology Seminary in Massachusetts to achieve this study. Dr. McCauley discusses how he was separated from his wife Navy Capt. while she was deployed during the pandemic. He had to deal with the needs and education of 4 children 16,14,10 and 8 (two boys and two girls). He discusses writing children's books which were influenced by his own children, writing a children's book about each one. Other books he discusses are a Children's Bible, and a book about interracial marriage. Dr. McCauley is a passionate follower of Christ and it is reflected in his writings and his day-to-day life. You don't want to miss this interview. As a short but incredible interlude, a young man from Korea, born in Jamaica, joined Mark and Esau on stage and discussed a 700,000 member church in Korea that has 60-70,000 people attending a prayer meeting at 05:30 in the morning.

10-6-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark completed A Study of Revelation with a focus on The Great News in Revelation 22.  This final lesson closed out the study of Apocalyptic Literature and recapped the 7 vignettes each covering a segment of the age of the church to the 2nd coming. Mark revisited the 7th vignette acknowledging varied interpretations of the millennium, the binding of Satan, and Jesus' 2nd coming where He will judge all humanity on the Great White Throne and create a new heaven and a new earth. Points for Home: 1. Revelation speaks to us. 2. Live in Faith. 3. What a great ending. Listen to Mark read Revelation 22 with insight and wisdom concluding with “Surely I  am coming soon.” Amen.  Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all.  Amen

9-29-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued A Study of Revelation acknowledging controversial viewpoints about the tribulation with a focus on the seventh or final vignette from Revelation 20:1-6. The context deals with Satan and his symbolic “binding” for a thousand years. We hear about 3 views of the Millennium, premillennial, postmillennial, & amillennial which is described as Satan bound for church age, a coming tribulation, and a 2nd coming. Points for home: Regardless of our millennial view, we should 1) live like the redeemed, 2) spread the word and 3) be confident that Glory is assured. Listen to Mark review the history of apocalyptic literature written in cycles and symbolism for all time, the advent of Jesus in a dark world and why Satan can never destroy the church

9-22-24 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Capes interviewed Dr. Amy Orr Ewing, writer, scholar, and evangelist who shared her life and passion for transforming lives for Jesus. Dr. Ewing relayed her family background and how she and her parents came to know Jesus. Amy holds a doctorate (DPhil) in Theology from the University of Oxford, and serves as Honorary Lecturer in Divinity at the University Aberdeen. She has influenced the Kingdom all over the world as evidenced with numerous accolades during her 25+ year career. Listen to Dr. Ewing offer scriptural insights from her years of study and application of apologetics and evangelism to believers and unbelievers all over the world.In

9-15-24 - Biblical-Literacy Mark returned to the Study of Revelation starting with a fast but important review of chapters 1-16 noting that we need to go back in time to fully understand the writings. Understanding the aspects of apocalyptic literature changes how we read & understand Revelation. Marks explains it as a series of vignettes that reflect the age of the church to the second coming. Mark then shifted attention to some highlights of the ending chapters asking the question: So how do we live? With open eyes With godliness Remember who wins See what awaits the family of God See what awaits the world Points for home See truth Live right Don't lose heart Listen to Mark show how Revelation is written like Daniel and the vignette's meanings. We can be confident that Jesus is coming back, and He wins.

Dr. David Fleming taught the 2nd class in Lesser Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Joanna from the Gospel of Luke. She was the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager. David's discussion was divided into: Context: Joanna's religious and social context as a wealthy woman. Jesus' respect and affirmation of Joanna and women. Content: Joanna had a personal encounter with Jesus. She became a follower, disciple, and financially supported Jesus. She was there for Him at His crucifixion. Contributions: Joanna was among those who were first to see Jesus at His resurrection. Points for Home What is, & am I, a disciple of Jesus? Am I living/working with and for Jesus? There's no such thing as lesser known to God. Listen to dr. Fleming teach about Joanna, her unlikely conversion, and what it means to follow Jesus today. You cannot stay where you are and follow Jesus. Your name is known to God.

Dr. David Fleming taught the first lesson in the "Lessor Known Women of the Bible" series. The focus today was on Achash, Caleb's daughter and subsequent wife of Othniel, from Judges 1. Our roadmap: Context—Caleb ensured the right man for his daughter, a man to provide for her, and to strengthen their family. Conduct—Achash respectfully trusted her father, not passive, encouraged her husband, and made a bold request from her father. Contribution—Achash's family got what they needed to thrive in the land. Points for home: A Lesson on trust and obedience A lesson on faith and obedience that leads to action. A lesson on who God uses. Listen to Dr. Fleming teach the value of trusting God and believing in His provision. God is good. God never fails. Choose God and live. Sometimes God will choose you for a very important job.

August 25,2024 Traits of God, The Holy Spirit Mark Lanier Mark asks three questions: 1. What is the Holy Spirit? 2. What does the Holy Spirit do? 3. How do we see the Scripture? Mark addressed these questions: 1. What is the Holy Spirit? Holy: 1. Connected with God or a particular Religion 2. Good in a moral and religious way Spirit: 1. The part of a person 2. The soul thought of as separate from the Body Ghost: Soul Mark explains in some detail from, verses in Scripture, the Difference between Spirit and spirit. 2. What does the holy spirit do? Ref: John 14-16, John 14-17 1.The Spirit will indwell in the believer 2.The Spirit will teach and remind 3.Bear witness to Jesus(w/apostles) 4.Convict of sin 5.Glorify Jesus 3. How do we see this in scripture: Ref: Acts 2:4, 5:32, 7:55, 10:38 and 1Cor 3:15 Homework: checkout OT and NT pre-Pentecost Take home: Affirm the Spirits work, Glorify Christ, and Pray for the Spirit's work

8-18-24 Biblical-Literacy Brent Johnson provided insight into the Attributes of God with a focus on Jesus Incarnate reflected who God is and what God wants through His teachings, commands, actions, and parables. Brent has three focus areas: 1. Why does Jesus matter? He is the Word, God, and eternal life. 2. Ethics of Jesus as seen in the 4 Gospels and themes: Matthew: The kingdom of God - Organization Mark: Radical fellowship - Reliance on God Luke: Status & expectations Reversed - Servant leadership John: Love ethic - Beloved disciple 3. Jesus shows love Concerns and priorities Power over the world and people Power over the demonic Power over death Listen to Brent's review on the Traits of God and the attributes of Jesus as God as shown in the Gospels.

8-11-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued teaching on The Attributes of God asking the question: How do we understand God? Three areas of focus to understand God include: 1. Words—God's name is more than a label but who He is and what He does. His majesty & power are reflected in I Am. LORD, Yahweh, and Jehovah. 2. Socially—Through relationships we see God is our Good King, Father, Husband, Mother, Shepherd, Judge, and Teacher. 3. Attributes—As presented in the Westminster Confession of Faith. Points for home •Find God •Honor God •Dwell with God Listen to Mark teach how we can better understand God by studying His name, social relationship and attributes. Be still and know He is God.

8-4-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued teaching The Attributes of God using this outline: 1. The importance of Knowing God and understanding God is Truth. Mark shows how Truth has shaped and reshaped over the years through views of faith, theology, science, history, and reason. 2. The Westminster Confession of faith was written before the enlightenment. This doctrine of faith shows how God reveals Himself in the Bible. 3. Points for home Let's get strong Let's go for the gold Let's follow His path Listen to Mark explain the issues of knowing God today, the mystery of God's emotions, and how thinking about God humbles and expands our knowledge of Him.

7-28-74 Biblical-Literacy Mark Lanier returned from vacation to teach a lesson from the summer series - The Attributes of God. Practical life experiences with insight helps us understand the God who never changes. Mark's three points: 1. The Importance of knowing God Eternal life starts now Thinking of God humbles the mind 2. The Westminster Confession of Faith Background for the statement of faith at the time. Calvinistic with a Puritan spin 3. Points for home Let's get strong Let's go for the gold Let's follow his path Listen to Mark share the importance of considering when the Bible was written, the original audience's life experiences, combined with cultural differences to more fully understand God's message. What does God say in a life that's painful and confusing? The unity of God. There is only one God. Who is faithful and true.

July 21, 2024 Dr. Capes discusses in detail “Favorite Attributes of God” as documented in Ephesians Chapter 1-6. He begins by citing the “anchor verse” of the lesson: Ephesians 1; Anchor Verse Blessed be the God and Father of our Lard Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ Every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be Holy and blameless before him. He continues by elaborating what spiritual blessings are, referencing Psalms 103 and 104. The lesson goes into great detail as to who God is, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost and what He expects from us as believers. DR. Capes further explains, in detail, what our relationship with God should be as a saved believer and what God's relationship with us and the world will be as a result. The lesson goes into detail as to what our relationship should be with God and how God views us and how we can be a part of God's Forever Family. We learn that God is creating a family, God's Forever Family, and the family comes into being through Jesus the Messiah. Points for Home: 1. Decide to follow Jesus. Eph 1:13 2. Through worship cultivate a new identity. Eph 1:12 3. Recognize that we occupy two times and two places. Eph 1:3 4. Rejoice in the blessings that come through Christ. Eph 1:6 5. Celebrate: Eph 1:3-6. The gracious purpose of God the Father Eph 1: 7-12 Redemptive work of Christ the Son Eph 1:13-14 The promised inheritance through the Spirt

7-7-24 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Fleming continued in summer series of The Attributes of God from the Bible using The Westminister Confession of Faith as a guide. This week David reflected on God as Incomparable, Incomprehensible & Indescribable and a focus of His Aseity. The lesson had three points: 1. Aseity of God - the belief that God doesn't not depend on any cause other than himself for his existence. Self-existent Self-sufficient Self-satisfied 2. What does that say to me? Comforted Encouraged Set free 3. Points for home. How do I take this? Not about me I am free Response of love and devotion Listen to Pastor David explain the “I Am” attribute of God. He is self-sufficient and all-sufficient. God doesn't need us, but we need God.

6-30-24 Biblical-Literacy Brent Johnson taught a new summer series: Favorite Attributes of God -based on The Westminster Confession of Faith. Brent selected "Working all things according to the council of his immutable and righteous will, for his own glory.” Brent started by sharing some background on the confession which was drafted in Westminster Abbey and published in 1647 providing an overview of the Bible and ultimately influential in Protestant Christianity. .Brent proceeded by digging deeper into the meaning of the selected attribute including:: -Gods will and Sovereignty: God is at work in everything: both believers and pagans.. -Your trust in peace: The power of prayer for peace that we do not understand. Points for home •Resist Satan •Stand firm in your faith •God will restore Listen to Brent teach of God's sovereignty by pointing out in Scripture who He is, His glory, His work, His attributes, and our resulting confidence.

6-23-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued A Study in Revelation with lesson 18 in this series. As an intro to the lesson, Mark shared a rendition of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” whose lyrics, written by Julia Ward Howe, were partially based on passages from Revelation. Mark then continued the lesson with three parts emphasizing the fundamental and biblical truth that Jesus will come again! 1. Earlier Vignette's - a recap from Revelation: 1-16 show the age of the church to the second coming. Themes include: The world is in darkness; The church is light; Jesus is ever present; live like it. The church is persecuted by the world, but God wins in the end. Warnings to the world of coming judgment to cause repentance. There's a spiritual war ongoing. 2. The 7th Bowl - an angel poured out His bowl of wrath followed by Jesus's return. 3. Points for home: Trust and obey Wait in hope God will finish His work Listen to Mark expound on Revelation 1-16, referring to apocalyptic writings from 4th Ezra and Biblical Scripture.

Mark continued in his Study of Revelation with lesson #18 with a refresher of material covered to-date. The setup: Review of the previous lessons, Revelation 1-14, from the age of the church to the second coming in parallel series of vignettes. The text: Chapters 15-16 mirror Exodus when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt. God is full of righteousness and wrath. Points for home: God's works are great, amazing, awesome, and wonderful God judges as The King of nations Who are you listening to? Listen to Mark teach how Revelation 1-16 shows how the church age through the second coming parallels the book of Exodus with the Lamb of God as the victor.

6-9-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued with lesson 17 in his Study of Revelation starting with a reference to The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis which shows how Satan instructs his demon with eight ways to shake and destroy our faith. Satan uses the church, ourselves, Christian life, prayer, focus, all to pull us away from God. Mark then expanded on this from Revelation 12 - 14. 1. The Reality of Satan's Assaults - We learn: He is real and hides himself. Can be a frontal attack or more subtle. We are part of an ongoing war. The mark of the beast - 666, is the number of man. 2. Placed into Revelation's Larger Context - We learn: All the visions and vignettes begin and end with Jesus. The blessedness of the redeemed. The warnings of humanity. The harvest of mankind. Listen to Mark teach how Satan (Dragon) has been trying to destroy Christ and His people since Christ entered the world and will continue until the second coming. Beware of false teachers and false teachings that are not from God. Anything that puts something other than God on the throne leads to death. Points for Home: God keeps all his people. We sing a new song.