Commuter Bible

Today, the kingdom of Israel falls with finality as for the longest time they have denied the ways of the Lord that would make them distinct from the surrounding nations. After spiraling madly away from the Lord for decades, the Lord allows the king of Assyria to conquer Israel and deport it's people to foreign lands. In his quest to conquer nation after nation, Sennacherib sets his sights on Judah, and sends messengers to demand submission and to arrogantly proclaim Judah's impending doom. King Hezekiah turns to the Lord in his time of trouble, and speaks through the prophet Isaiah to bring good news to the king.2 Kings 17 – 1:08 . 2 Kings 18 – 10:12 . 2 Kings 19 – 19:32 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The kings of Israel have fallen so far from the way of life that the Lord had called them to follow, that by this point they are completely unrecognizable from the nations around them. As we read, notice that as the kings move further away from the Lord and his statutes, the more violent, unpredictable, and selfish they become. While Judah's kings continuously neglect the high places of idol worship, most of them still continue to serve God themselves. And if you're curious about anything else these kings did, good luck finding the Historical Record of Israel's and Judah's Kings.2 Kings 14 - 1:11 . 2 Kings 15 - 7:54 . 2 Kings 16 - 16:11 . Psalm 103 - 20:52 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, we'll hear the account of King Joash, the infant heir to the throne who was rescued from a royal slaughter and raised in the temple of God. With guidance from Jehoiada the priest, Joash is inaugurated as a child king over Judah, and he begins the work of repairing the temple. Hazael has become the king of Aram just as Elisha had prophesied, and the army of Jehoahaz, king of Israel is almost completely wiped out. Jehoahaz's son Jehoash visits Elisha before he dies of illness, where Elisha has a final prophecy for Israel's king.2 Kings 11 - 1:12 . 2 Kings 12 - 5:51 . 2 Kings 13 - 11:07 . Psalm 102 - 17:22 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In today's episode, Elisha acts through messengers and servants to accomplish kingdom-altering acts. First, the king of Aram sends his servant Hazael to ask Elisha if the king will recover from his sickness. While speaking with him about the matter, Elisha sees Hazael's future, which one of terrible power and destruction. Later, Elisha sends a young prophet to anoint Jehu, an army commander, to be king over Israel. With a number of cunning strategies, Jehu overthrows the house of Ahab, kills Jezebel, the prophets of a Baal, and avenges the blood of Naboth the Gileadite on behalf of the Lord, who predicted Ahab's fall through Elijah.2 Kings 8 - 1:11 . 2 Kings 9 - 8:32 . 2 Kings 10 - 18:28 . Psalm 100 - 27:07 . Psalm 101 - 27:52 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

On today's episode, an Aramean army commander comes to Elisha to be healed, but when Elisha doesn't give him the respect he thinks he deserves, he almost rejects the offer out of hand. Later, the Arameans try to capture Elisha but he diffuses them with hospitality. Not long after, the Arameans lay siege to Israel, surrounding Samaria in order to cause a famine, and the people take desperate measures. The king of Israel becomes enraged and sends for Elisha that he might kill him. When the messenger arrives, Elisha declares that a miraculous turn of events is just a day away.2 Kings 5 - 1:22 . 2 Kings 6 - 9:12 . 2 Kings 7 - 17:03 . Psalm 99 - 22:37 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We continue in our timeline of the kings of Israel and the kings of Judah today. Remember that King Ahab has died, but at this point Elijah is still alive. Ahab's son Ahaziah is now on the throne, but he won't outlive the Lord's prophecy against Ahab which says that his family line would come to an end in the next generation. King Jehoshaphat continues to reign in Judah and partner with the kings of Israel, pointing each king to consult the Lord through his prophets. And speaking of the prophets, in today's episode Elijah passes his mantle to Elisha who receives a double portion of Elijah's spirit.2 Kings 1 - 1:13 . 2 Kings 2 - 5:45 . 2 Kings 3 - 12:21 . 2 Kings 4 - 18:26 . Psalm 98 - 27:28 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today we'll read the account of Jonah, the reluctant prophet. The Lord commands Jonah to go to Ninevah and warn them of their impending destruction. Jonah turns to go in the completely opposite direction, later saying that he didn't want to go because he knew the Lord would have compassion on those whom Israel saw as detestable adversaries. As you hear this account, keep in mind that in the end it is most likely that Jonah is the one recording what happened, revealing that he was eventually aware of his sinful heart toward those living in ignorance of the Lord's ways.Jonah - 1:11 . Jonah 2 – 5:00 . Jonah 3 – 6:56 . Jonah 4 – 8:59 . Philemon - 12:21 . Psalm 96 - 16:13 . Psalm 97 - 18:08 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, Ahab struck a deal with Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram instead of destroying him, but because the Lord had set him apart for destruction, an unnamed prophet pronounces judgment on Ahab. Some time passes, and Ahab sets his sights on a field that belongs to another man. After he refuses to sell it, Ahab pouts in his room until Jezebel hatches a scheme to murder him and take his land. Elijah appears to prophecy his demise, and remarkably, Ahab responds with humility. Later, the prophet Micaiah shares a vision of the Lord's throne room where God permits a lying spirit to bring about Ahab's demise. 1 Kings 21 – 1:07 . 1 Kings 22 – 7:42 . Psalm 95 – 18:41 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After experiencing the power and authority of the God of Israel on top of Mount Carmel, where fire fell from heaven to consume Elijah's sacrifice, the prophet runs to Jezreel ahead of King Ahab. Upon hearing Jezebel's threats to execute him, Elijah then flees in despair to a distant mountaintop. Later, King Ahab of Israel goes to battle with Ben-Hadad of Aram. The Lord sends an unnamed prophet to alert Ahab that the Lord will win the battle for Israel so that Ahab will know that He alone is God over the whole earth. Then, when Ahab disobeys the Lord's command and spares Ben-Hadad instead of destroying him, the Lord sends another unnamed prophet to pronounce judgment.1 Kings 19 – 1:09 . 1 Kings 20 – 6:35 . Psalm 94 – 18:23 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The string of men who reign as king over the ten tribes of Israel continue to get worse and worse, each king being more corrupt than the last. King Ahab should be worshipping the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God who brought Israel out of Egypt, but instead he marries a Baal worshiper, turns to serve Ball himself, then builds a temple to Baal in Samaria. Elijah boldly confronts the king in the name of the Lord of Armies. God works wonders through Elijah, and by God's strength, Elijah performs miraculous signs. 1 Kings 16 - 1:09 . 1 Kings 17 - 8:14 . 1 Kings 18 - 12:43 . Psalm 92 - 23:49 . Psalm 93 - 25:38 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Now that King Solomon has died, the prophecies of God spoken through his prophet Ahijah have come to fruition. In our last episode, Ahijah tore a new robe into 12 pieces and gave 10 pieces to Jeroboam, symbolizing the number of tribes he would rule over. Remember that Solomon's son Rehoboam insults Jeroboam, who formerly worked under Solomon as a supervisor over forced labor. After Jeroboam led a revolt, he became king over those 10 tribes. Despite the Lord's kindness to Jeroboam, he also turned away from God and immediately set up two sanctuaries, each with a golden calf. Today, God's wrath and impending destruction are announced by an unnamed prophet.1 Kings 13 – 1:09 . 1 Kings 14 – 9:06 . 1 Kings 15 – 16:06 . Psalm 91 – 22:20 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Even though Solomon's life is marked by the goodness and grace of God, even though Solomon has built the Lord's temple in Jerusalem, and even though Solomon's wisdom is unsurpassed, his devotion to the Lord and to his statutes wanes in his latter years. Why? Because in his power and in his lavish wealth, he has accumulated hundreds of wives for himself. In marrying wives from surrounding nations, he has disobeyed the direct command of the Lord and fallen into idolatry. As such is the case, the Lord vows to take the kingdom away from Solomon's family after he is gone. Sadly, the wisdom that Solomon had passed on to his sons doesn't take root, as the foolishness of his son Rehoboam causes a revolt and a division in the nation of Israel.1 Kings 10 - 1:10 . 1 Kings 11 - 7:31 . 1 Kings 12 - 17:08 . Psalm 90 - 24:30 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today's reading contains the second-longest chapter in all of Scripture, which is 1 Kings chapter 8, and it's long for a great reason: King Solomon gets excited and is full of prayer and praise as he conducts the first worship gathering at the Lord's temple. Though the tabernacle existed before the temple, this is the first permanent structure built for the worship of God in a particular geographic location. As you can imagine, it's a pretty big deal. The party lasts for two full weeks, after which the Lord appears to Solomon a second time echoing both the blessings and curses he gave to Moses before him.1 Kings 7 - 1:05 . 1 Kings 8 - 10:13 . 1 Kings 9 - 24:08 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As always, the Lord God makes good on His promises, and Solomon flourishes under the Lord's lavish provision. Blessed with peace on every side and abundant wealth, Solomon does not kick back and take it easy; instead, he sets His mind on things above and gets to work. Knowing that the Lord had promised David a son who would come from his family and would establish God's house forever, Solomon builds a center of worship for God that reflects the plans for the original tabernacle. In work, wealth, and worship, Solomon is a foreshadow of the Son of David who would establish a greater kingdom where God is worshipped by the nations and the people dwell with Him in peace.1 Kings 4 - 1:12 . 1 Kings 5 - 6:13 . 1 Kings 6 - 10:41 . Psalm 88 - 17:18 . Psalm 89 - 19:39 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

With King David on his death bed, the royal family knows that the time to transfer power is drawing near. David's oldest son, Adonijah, gains support for himself from well-known leaders like Joab and Abiathar, calling Judah together for a feast to celebrate his bid for kingship. Nathan the prophet catches word, and teams up with Bathsheba to alert the king. Later, the Lord appears to King Solomon in a dream, and instead of asking for wealth or long life, he asks the Lord for wisdom to lead God's people. This pleases the Lord, who promises blessing upon Solomon's reign.1 Kings 1 - 1:15 . 1 Kings 2 - 12:49 . 1 Kings 3 - 23:28 . Psalm 87 - 29:00 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Paul catches word from fellow workers in the Gospel that the church at Colossae is wrestling with some false teaching that had entered their church. While the heresy is not fully identified, we gather that it had an inferior view of Christ, involved worship of angels and asceticism, and promoted man-made traditions. Paul directs their hearts and minds to give glory to Christ and to seek the things that are above, where Christ is. He is Lord over all Creation, and therefore, no elemental, created thing could be as glorious or as powerful as Him.Colossians 1 - 1:11 . Colossians 2 - 5:49 . Colossians 3 - 10:47 . Colossians 4 - 14:39 . Psalm 85 - 17:45 . Psalm 86 - 19:22 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Now that the account of King David has essentially come to a close, the author recording the account looks back on David's life to record some of the events that happened during David's lifetime that were not included in the chronological story line. These accounts include the execution of members of Saul's family, battles against the giant descendants of Goliath, a song of David, the exploits of David's best warriors, and the census that David ordered to survey his kingdom. While imperfect, David is sensitive to his sin to the end, seeking repentance when he realizes his error.2 Samuel 21 – 1:14 . 2 Samuel 22 – 7:16 . 2 Samuel 23 – 13:53 . 2 Samuel 24 – 21:18 . Psalm 84 – 27:15 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

On our last episode we followed the trajectory of David's son Absalom, a handsome young man who had won the hearts of Israel by deception, telling those who came to King David that the king had no time for them. Absalom devises a coup to overthrow David, but his father catches wind of his plot and flees before he arrives. Today, David's men prepare for battle and meet the forces of Absalom's Israelite troops. The forest itself claims more lives than the sword, and Absalom meets his end at the hands of Joab. Later, David is restored as king, but not without personal turmoil.2 Samuel 18 - 1:16 . 2 Samuel 19 - 9:41 . 2 Samuel 20 - 19:59 . Psalm 83 - 25:38 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After killing his brother at a family dinner, Absalom fled to another country, and was only brought back after Joab convinced David to do so by way of a theatric analogy. Today, Absalom begins a plan to win the hearts of the people and turn Israel against his father, the king. Learning of this impending insurrection, David flees Jerusalem with all of his people, save a handle of men who serve as spies. Nathan prophesied that the Lord would bring disaster on David from his own family, and that another man would sleep with his wives before Israel in broad daylight. David's own son, Absalom, is that man. 2 Samuel 15 - 1:12 . 2 Samuel 16 - 9:44 . 2 Samuel 17 - 15:01 . Psalm 81 - 21:26 . Psalm 82 - 23:30 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When we last left King David, he had slept with another man's wife, and when it came to light that she was pregnant, he designed a conspiracy to kill Uriah in order to cover up his own adultery. Today Nathan comes to David with a word from the Lord. Because of his sin, the Lord says that he will take David's wives and give them to another before all of Israel, and by the end of our next reading, that prophecy comes true. David's sons begin to perpetuate their father's wickedness, as Amnon lusts after Tamar, his own half-sister. When David discovers that Tamar has been raped by Amnon, he is furious, but does nothing to intervene.2 Samuel 12 - 1:17 . 2 Samuel 13 - 9:01 . 2 Samuel 14 - 18:10 . Psalm 80 - 25:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Throughout the Old Testament, we meet men of varying backgrounds who set out to obey the Lord and deliver God's people. Time and again, God's people rejoice and revel in their hero, but inevitably, these men fall and are shown to be sinful. There is none righteous, no not one. David is no exception, and his lust for another man's wife begets more and more sin. Luxury and boredom turn into lust, which turns to an abuse of power, then adultery, then deception, then second-hand murder. Though he tries to hide his sin by sinning further, the Lord will not allow the sin of Israel's king to go unpunished.2 Samuel 9 - 1:12 . 2 Samuel 10 - 4:06 . 2 Samuel 11 - 9:26 . Psalm 79 - 15:17 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Now that David has been recognized as king, it's time for him to begin to establish his kingdom. David consults the Lord before he goes into battle, and prioritizes the worship of the Lord as a matter of great importance. With much fanfare, he moves the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, and worships in a very un-regal fashion. King David expresses his desire to make a house of worship for the Lord, rather than a tent. God, who has never needed a house, says that rather He will build a David's house, establishing the kingdom of the Son of David forever. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After Saul's death, an Amalekite man comes to David claiming that he is the one who killed Saul, thinking he will be rewarded for his deed since Saul pursued David for so long. To say that David is displeased with this report, however, is an understatement. After a period of mourning for the house of Saul, David is anointed king in Judah, but Abner, the commander of Saul's army, has other plans. He crowns Saul's son Ish-bosheth as king, accumulates power for himself, and fights against David's soldiers. Eventually, Abner concedes, but not without gaining a few enemies within David's camp.2 Samuel 1 - 1:08 . 2 Samuel 2 - 6:08 . 2 Samuel 3 - 13:37 . 2 Samuel 4 - 22:53 . Psalm 77 - 26:00 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Paul's letter to the church at Philippi is full of love and instruction for the Lord's church. He rejoices that the gospel is moving forward even while he is in prison, and encourages the church to endure suffering, to be united in love, and to serve one another sacrificially, looking to the King of Kings who humbled Himself even to death on a cross. Our boast is no longer in the flesh, but in the cross of Christ. Paul had much to boast about before surrendering to Christ but he says he now counts at all as loss in comparison to knowing Christ. Knowing that the Lord is near, we should be anxious for nothing, opting instead to pray and to consider the goodness of God.Philippians 1 - 1:11 . Philippians 2 - 5:42 . Philippians 3 - 11:08 . Philippians 4 - 14:57 . Proverbs 31 - 19:01 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, Saul set his sights on David once more, bringing three thousand men with him, but David again has compassion on him. David and his men defect from Israel and escape to Philistine territory, where the king gives him the city of Ziklag. Later, as Saul faces the Philistine armies, he becomes fearful and tries to consult the Lord, but God does not respond. Being more concerned for himself than for God's glory, Saul consults a medium, and in a totally backwards way, attempts to consult the man of God who had anointed him as Israel's king so many years ago. In the end, the Philistines claim victory over Saul and his sons, and after being mortally wounded, Saul takes his own life.1 Samuel 26 - 1:12 . 1 Samuel 27 - 7:12 . 1 Samuel 28 - 10:39 . 1 Samuel 29 - 16:05 . 1 Samuel 30 - 18:34 . 1 Samuel 31 - 24:44 . Proverbs 30:18 - 27:19 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In a paranoid rage, Saul has slaughtered a city of priests and their families. One man has escaped from that raid and joined David's ranks; his name is Abiathar and he has come with a priestly ephod in hand. At every turn, it seems that Saul is hot on David's tail until, at long last, he unwittingly happens upon the cave where David is hiding. However, he doesn't realize David and his men are there, and when he goes in to relieve himself, David takes advantage of the opportunity, but not in the way you might expect from someone who is being hunted down by the ruler of a kingdom.1 Samuel 23 - 1:13 . 1 Samuel 24 - 7:53 . 1 Samuel 25 - 12:38 . Proverbs 30 - 23:48 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, King Saul's jealousy and hatred for David began to grow as David successfully conquered the Philistines in battle time after time. Saul began plotting David's demise, but his plans to see him killed were all foiled. Today, Saul's rage becomes clear to everyone, and David flees from the king's presence. As he takes shelter in a distant cave, his family catches word and they join him, along with other men who seek escape from Saul's reign. Later, Saul starts to crack under pressure and he begins to imagine that David could strike at any moment. In a rage, he puts a city of priests and their family to the sword.1 Samuel 19 - 1:10 . 1 Samuel 20 - 5:50 . 1 Samuel 21 - 15:10 . 1 Samuel 22 - 18:18 . Proverbs 29:15 - 24:43 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When the subject of a historical account like this one tells you the reason why he will be victorious before he achieves his victory, we should probably pay attention to that right? So often when someone references David & Goliath, they frame it as if it's about a big guy versus small fry, and the underdog wins the day because of his ingenuity. Let's just make this clear: you are not David and this account is not about facing your giants. If anything, we are the cowering Israelites who cannot face our foe; we need a champion, a savior, to step forward in the power of God and rescue us from sin and death.1 Samuel 16 - 1:10 . 1 Samuel 17 - 6:03 . 1 Samuel 18 - 18:28 . Proverbs 29 - 24:20 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

At the end of our last episode, Saul had just been appointed as king in Gilgal. Samuel gave him instructions to wait for him there, but when he feels like he is pressed for time he assumes that it will be best to make the burnt offering himself. Saul, however, is not a part of the priesthood, and while he is king, it doesn't mean that he can do whatever he wishes, especially if it means going against the Lord's statutes. As we'll find out today, Saul's tendency to pay little attention to God's instructions has huge ramifications on his life and his reign as king.1 Samuel 13 - 1:12 . 1 Samuel 14 - 5:52 . 1 Samuel 15 - 18:45 . Proverbs 28:15 - 26:10 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, the nation of Israel asked an aging Samuel to appoint a king over them before his death. Samuel warned them about what a king would demand from them, but the people urged him all the more. Ultimately, the concern is not so much that they want a king, but that they were looking to have a human king as a source of strength, protection, and provision. All throughout their history, God had been their strength, their protection, and their provider, but they failed to trust in Him. As Samuel installs Saul as king in today's reading, take note of Samuel's longing for the good of his people and for the glory of God.1 Samuel 9 - 1:10 . 1 Samuel 10 - 7:27 . 1 Samuel 11 - 13:02 . 1 Samuel 12 - 17:15 . Proverbs 28 - 22:32 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When Israel went to battle against the Philistines they assumed that they could bring out the ark of the covenant to the battlefield, and that it's presence would either oblige God to win the battle for them or that the object itself had some kind of mystical power. They were sorely mistaken, and the Philistines promptly defeated them captured the ark. Assuming that their victory is a victory over Israel's God, the Philistines place the ark in Dagon's temple. Time and again, however, the Lord silently causes destruction, catastrophe and misery for the Philistines wherever the ark is taken, until finally, they become so desperate they put it on a cart and send it back where it came from. 1 Samuel 5 - 1:10 . 1 Samuel 6 - 3:44 . 1 Samuel 7 - 8:39 . 1 Samuel 8 - 13:05 . Proverbs 27 - 16:43 .   :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The instructions that the Lord has given to his people concerning justice, holiness, and priesthood have all been shattered in the time of the judges. It seems like all is lost for Israel, but even here we can see foreshadows of the Christ who has yet to come. There is a woman incapable of having children who is faithful to the Lord. In His providence, kindness and mercy, the Lord raises a prophet and priest from the barren womb of this woman, who had promised the Lord that her son would serve God all the days of his life. This young boy is at home in the Lord's service and eventually replaces sinful men and intercedes between God and His people. One day, Samuel will usher in a new kingdom, though he himself will not be king.1 Samuel 1 - 1:13 . 1 Samuel 2 - 6:21 . 1 Samuel 3 - 15:12 . 1 Samuel 4 - 19:10 . Proverbs 26:13 - 24:40 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As we open Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus it becomes immediately clear that Paul is overflowing with joy in Christ. The source and origin of this joy is Christ Himself, whom Paul notes as the one who is responsible for our salvation. Take note of how often Paul uses the phrase “In Him” or “In Christ”. He goes on to make clear that it is not our works that bring such blessing and righteousness, but free grace through faith. Having received this gift, Paul then encourages the church to live worthy of God's calling. Though we may often fail, we should make it our aim to grow into maturity, submitting to the order of King Jesus.Ephesians 1 – 1:14 . Ephesians 2 – 4:46 . Ephesians 3 – 8:17 . Ephesians 4 – 12:05 . Ephesians 5 – 16:40 . Ephesians 6 – 21:05 . Proverbs 26:1-12 – 24:52 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

It seems like so much has been lost in the time of the judges, but the author of Ruth gives us a glimmer of hope. In a season of drought, a family leaves Israel and moves to Moab hoping to find relief, but instead they find sorrow. The wife, Naomi, becomes a widow without family to help her. Her daughter-in-law, a foreigner, commits to love her and care for her, returning with her to the people of Israel. There, she meets Boaz, a family redeemer who honors Ruth, cares for her, and in obedience to the Lord, redeems her into his own family. Ruth is part of a bigger story of redemption, as her lineage will include not only King David, but Jesus the Christ. Ruth 1 – 1:12 . Ruth 2 – 5:33 . Ruth 3 – 11:18 . Ruth 4 – 14:49 . Proverbs 25 – 19:45 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The call to love one another continues as Paul encourages church members not to quarrel over opinions. From one believer to the next, you'll find that Christians have varying convictions about what is acceptable concerning things like dietary restrictions or celebration of particular days, and Paul says that's OK. Let each one be convinced without quarreling with one another. Moreover, if your actions make another brother or sister stumble, you shouldn't let your preferences take precedence over the good of your brother or sister. Paul ends by sending affectionate greetings to specific believers he knows.Romans 13 - 1:11 . Romans 14 - 3:56 . Romans 15 - 8:38 . Romans 16 - 13:55 . Proverbs 24 - 18:02 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When we consider that God “hardens hearts,” our minds may try to conceive of a defense for God or fight against the idea that the Lord would direct our steps in such a way. Paul recognizes this instinct and asks, “Is there injustice with God?” Absolutely not! If we have earned or merited anything in this life, Scripture says that our proper wages are only sin and death. We praise God that He has mercy on anyone, for what we deserve is hell and separation from a holy God for rebelling against Him. The free gift, that which is entirely undeserved, is to be made right before God the Father through Jesus Christ, our Lord.Romans 9 - 1:11 . Romans 10 - 7:45 . Romans 11 - 11:19 . Romans 12 - 18:10 . Proverbs 23 - 21:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

True righteousness comes by faith in Jesus Christ, not by the works of the flesh. Paul has masterfully explained that Abraham is the father of all who come to faith in Christ, both Jew and Gentile, as by faith he received the promise before the institution of circumcision and then received circumcision as a seal of that faith. Today he explains that while Adam's sin brings death to all, Christ's obedience brings life to all who trust in Him. In this new life, we called to offer up every part of our being to God, rejecting sin at every turn. Having been redeemed you can walk confidently in obedience, for the Lord watches over your life.Romans 5 – 1:08 . Romans 6 – 4:55 . Romans 7 – 9:37 . Romans 8 – 14:44 . Proverbs 22 – 21:31 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Paul's letter to the house churches of Rome is full of rich, theological truth, often presenting ideas that are both mind-boggling and comforting all at once. In today's passage, Paul begins to present his case for a righteousness that comes by faith. He begins by explaining that the world rejects God because they love their unrighteous behavior more than their Creator. There is no one righteous and no one who seeks God, for all have sinned and fall short of His glory. The good news is that if we, whether Jew or Gentile, have faith in Christ Jesus, we will be declared righteous in God's sight.Romans 1 - 1:12 . Romans 2 - 7:37 . Romans 3 - 12:28 . Romans 4 - 17:58 . Proverbs 21 - 22:53 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

At this point in the narrative of Judges, the Lord is surprisingly absent from the life of Israel. It seems like nobody knows how any of this covenant stuff works, even in the slightest. It becomes so bad that a Levite is involved in a scenario almost identical to that of Sodom & Gomorrah, only this time, those who are intent on sexually assaulting the town's visitors are successful because the Levite betrays his concubine. Though he is not supposed to touch a dead body, he then mutilates her corpse just to make a point. Time and again the author captures this darkness by stating that there was “no king in Israel” for Israel had rejected their Lord.Judges 17 - 1:14 . Judges 18 - 3:34 . Judges 19 - 10:26 . Judges 20 - 17:19 . Judges 21 - 25:51 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In short, Samson is a picture of Israel in one person. Meant to be set apart and holy, he instead takes his vows and his God lightly, defiling himself over and over. A Nazirite was supposed avoid dead bodies, yet he eats honey from a lion's carcass and uses a jawbone for a weapon. A Nazirite was supposed to abstain from wine, yet Samson threw a drinking party for the Philistines. The last vow to go is that of not cutting his hair, which he hands over to a Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil. In the end, the angel's prediction is true: he will begin to save Israel from the power of the Philistines.Judges 13 – 1:14 . Judges 14 – 6:20 . Judges 15 – 10:52 . Judges 16 - 15:52 . Psalm 75 - 23:30 . Psalm 76 – 24:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Two judges of Israel follow the death of Abimelech, and we know little about them, except that they each judged Israel for over 20 years with no ruckus to speak of. When Israel turns to idols yet again, they suffer under the Philistines & Ammonites. They cry out to the Lord, but he rejects their pleas. When they confess sin and burn their idols, God begins to become weary of their misery. Later, God appoints a ne'er-do-well named Jephthah to deliver Israel from the Ammonites. Sadly, Jephthah doesn't truly know the Lord or His commands, and he makes a vow to the Lord that is abominable in the Lord's sight, standing in direct conflict with the statutes handed down through Moses. Thinking that he is being faithful to the Lord, he makes a heartbreaking decision.Judges 10 – 1:15 . Judges 11 – 4:56 . Judges 12 – 13:24 . Psalm 74 – 16:27 :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When we last left Gideon and his army, he had attacked the forces of Midian with 300 hundred men. Though he and his small band had already killed 120,000 men, there are still 15,000 left. We begin with a discussion between Gideon and the men of Ephraim who have just killed the two princes of Midian as Gideon's men routed them from battle. They're upset that they weren't called to fight, but Gideon basically tells them their leftovers are better than the full harvest of what his men have reaped. After securing victory, Israel tries to make Gideon their leader, but he refuses and says that the Lord should lead them. Then, strangely he makes an ephod out of gold, which becomes a snare of idolatry.Judges 8 – 1:12 . Judges 9 – 8:36 . Psalm 73 – 20:00 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Our reading today begins by wrapping up the account of Deborah and Barak after Sisera's defeat. It's not long, however, before Israel turns, once again, to worship idols. The false gods of Baal and Asherah were meant to bring fertile crops and prosperity, but they only bring despair and a fractured relationship with the One True God. During a period of oppression by the Midianites, the Lord speaks to a young man named Gideon and calls upon him to destroy his father's idolatrous altars. Later, the spirit of the Lord envelops Gideon as he gathers troops for battle. The Lord then reduces the number of men who will go to battle to just 300 so that Israel will not forget the power of God and His merciful deliverance.Judges 5 – 1:13 . Judges 6 – 7:22 . Judges 7 – 16:49 . Psalm 72 – 23:15 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Under the rule of Joshua, Israel was doing well and was off to a good start in obeying the Lord's commands. Not long afterward, however, they begin to intermarry with the Canaanites, signaling, not only an apathy toward God's commands, but an acceptance of the gods that the Canaanites worshiped. God declares that he will no longer drive out the Canaanites before Israel, and he leaves them in the land to test Israel's faithfulness to His commands. When their foes rise to power and they cry to the Lord for help, he raises up judges to fight for them.  Judges 1 - 1:11 . Judges 2 - 7:38 . Judges 3 - 12:43 . Judges 4 - 19:19 . Psalm 71 - 24:26 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In Matthew's very Jewish-oriented account we have seen Jesus lauded as the coming King, we have seen the builders reject the cornerstone, and today we will see the Lamb of God who brings a greater Passover and a greater deliverance. Like Abraham's firstborn, the Son of God is offered to God as a sacrifice, but he also the substitute offered so that we might live. A Jewish audience would have heard and understood all the parallels to Psalm 22, and recalled from Isaiah that the wounds of the suffering servant bring healing. Thankfully, his crucifixion is not the end. Jesus rises from the grave, just as he had said.Matthew 26 – 1:06 . Matthew 27 – 13:43 . Matthew 28 – 23:58 . Psalm 70 – 27:24 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

There are aspects of tension, excitement, and confusion as Jesus continues to teach in Jerusalem following his triumphal entry. The Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes, and other experts of the law have already tested him with their inquisitions, but he didn't fumble with answers in the slightest. On the contrary, his answers left the crowd in awe and wonder at his wisdom and judgment. Today, Jesus returns the favor by declaring seven woes upon the hypocrites who elevate themselves but weigh down others. Later, the disciples have questions about the future, and Jesus calls them to faithfulness and expectancy while waiting for His return.Matthew 23 – 1:12 . Matthew 24 – 8:14 . Matthew 25 – 15:48 . Psalm 69 – 23:16 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The prophecies of the Son of David predict that a king will rise to power to shepherd the people of Israel. Jesus fits this description, and after waiting for centuries for this King, the people rejoice at the thought of a King rising to power to conquer their foes. What they don't realize is that Jesus won't conquer Rome or other nations, but He will instead conquer far greater foes like sin and death. The leaders despise Jesus and the praise He receives from the crowd. With jealousy in their hearts, they make every attempt to discredit the authority of Jesus.Matthew 20 - 1:09 . Matthew 21 - 6:32 . Matthew 22 - 16:26 . Psalm 68 - 23:08 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org