Commuter Bible OT

God's people are precious in his sight, so much so that has given up other nations in order to ransom them from destruction. Though a time of judgment is coming upon them, the Lord assures them that he will protect his faithful ones in their time of distress. Time and again, God's people have forsaken him for other gods, but there is no Savior besides him, and no other god has proven his power, might, and foreknowledge like the God of Israel. Idols and those who fashion them are put to shame, for the one whom makes them and bows down to them also uses the same wood to cook his dinner. Later, Isaiah prophesies of a king not yet born, King Cyrus of Persia. This king does not know the Lord, and yet God will call him by name to be used as an instrument of redemption for his people.Isaiah 43 - 1:07 . Isaiah 44 - 7:23 . Isaiah 45 - 14:56 . Psalm 150 - 21:07 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

You'll recall in our last episode that Hezekiah flaunted his wealth to Babylonian messengers, and although the exile will not take place for another 80-100 years, it is at this point in time that Isaiah begins predicting the future exile of Israel with great clarity. Even so, today's reading begins with a proclamation of comfort for those who trust in the Lord, He who sits enthroned above the circle of the earth. There is no other god from any other nation who compares with the God of Israel. He not only has strength and power to do as he pleases, but he also gives strength to the faint and to the powerless. Israel need not fear, for God is with them and will hold on to them with his righteous right hand. Isaiah 40 - 1:07 . Isaiah 41 - 8:04 . Isaiah 42 - 14:54 . Psalm 149 - 20:16 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, the Lord God turned away the messengers of King Sennacherib of Assyria and his armies, sending his angel to strike down 185,000 in their camp. Sometime during those days of the Assyrian threat, Hezekiah became terminally ill. After Isaiah prophesies that his illness will end in death, Hezekiah prays to the Lord and the Lord hears, granting him another 15 years of life. It's not long, however, before Hezekiah gets cocky and shows off his sweet digs to his neighbors, the Babylonians. Of course, we know that won't end well. Isaiah tells Hezekiah that some of his descendants will be taken captive to Babylon, but that matter much to Hezekiah; he's just glad it won't happen during his lifetime. Isaiah 38 - 1:10 . Isaiah 39 - 6:29 . 2 Kings 20 - 8:52 . 2 Chronicles 32:20 - 13:59 . Psalm 148 - 17:24 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The readings from today's chapters are near perfect parallels, with only minor differentiations between them. After hearing the report about the royal messenger who insulted the Lord God and the people of Judah, Hezekiah immediately expresses a sense of mourning and loss by covering himself in sackcloth and ashes. He sends directly for Isaiah, who reports that the Lord will soon turn them around. After a second threat spoken from the Assyrian spokesman, Hezekiah heads to the temple and prays to God. Isaiah, who apparently is elsewhere, sends a message of hope from the Lord to Hezekiah, promising that Assyria will go back the way they came. Isaiah 37 - 1:07 . 2 Kings 19 - 10:44 . Psalm 147 - 19:27 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Over the next few days we'll be reading regularly from three books, 2 Chronicles, 2 Kings, and Isaiah, as we continue pursuing a fairly linear chronological reading of the Old Testament. At the point in the history of God's people, Hezekiah is on the throne in Jerusalem and Isaiah is simultaneously prophesying in Judah. The kings of Assyria are knocking on the front door, taunting those in power. This not only includes the king and his officials, but God himself, whom they mock and equate to the gods of other nations. Today, you'll hear the account of Sennacherib's royal spokesman who seeks to insult, discourage and dishearten the men of Judah before their impending military confrontation. 2 Chronicles 32:1-19 - 1:09 . 2 Kings 18 - 5:29 . Isaiah 36 - 14:50 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Recall that in our timeline of Judah's kings the most recent king was Ahaz, who proved to be the most evil in king in Judah's history up until that time. He not only worshipped other gods, but sacrificed his children to them as an act of pagan worship. When his son Hezekiah comes to power, he literally cleans house, restoring the temple of the Lord so that all Israel could be called back to worship the God of their ancestors. The priests and the Levites are called upon to consecrate themselves for worship, and they do everything by the book. When the temple has been made ready, they celebrate the Passover early because the people had not done so in a long time. Scripture records that nothing like this has happened since the days of King Solomon. 2 Chronicles 29 - 1:06 . 2 Chronicles 30 - 9:49 . 2 Chronicles 31 - 16:08 . Psalm 146 - 21:09 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Israel has sought out the men of Egypt for help against their foes, but they have not sought the Lord their God. When God's people turn back to him, Assyria will fall by the sword of the Lord. A righteous kingdom is announced where rulers will rule justly, the fool will no longer be called a noble, and the Spirit will be poured out on the people. Next, woe is pronounced on the destroyer who is never destroyed, which is likely a reference to Sennacherib. In an upcoming episode we'll hear the account of his messengers mocking the God of Israel and taunting King Hezekiah. Finally, we'll read a poetic prophecy that envisions Bozrah, the capital city of Edom, as a ghost town, totally abandoned by people and home only to wild animals. We'll end with a prophecy about a Holy Way. Isaiah 31 -  1:07 .  Isaiah 32 - 3:31 .  Isaiah 33 - 7:06 .  Isaiah 34 - 12:55 .  Isaiah 35 - 16:39 .  Psalm 144 - 18:57 .  Psalm 145 - 21:09 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After a brief excursion in the book of the prophet Hosea, we are back in the book of Isaiah. This episode begins with a proclamation of woe against Samaria, called Ephraim in this prophecy. Specifically, they are chastised for being drunk all the time, having no vision, clarity, or wisdom to give to others on behalf of the Lord. Shifting away from the northern kingdom of Israel, he then chastises Judah for making deals with Assyria, or “Death” as they are called poetically here. Jerusalem, referred to as “Ariel”, will be burned and destroyed, for they have refused to open their eyes to the Lord's commands. Finally, Isaiah condemns Jerusalem's alliance with Egypt, most likely a reference to King Hezekiah's reign. Isaiah 28 - 1:03 .  Isaiah 29 - 8:18 .  Isaiah 30 - 13:33 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Israel has taken the lavish blessings of their God and given those gifts to the calf idols of Baal, turning away from the covenant love of the God who redeemed them in order to love other gods. Therefore, in accordance with curses of the covenant he made with them at Sinai and for the sake of His holy name, the Lord will discipline his people for their rebellion. Through Hosea, God remarks that he raised Israel like a father raises children and laments the calamity that will come upon them. With this love in mind, He promises that He will not release His full wrath upon them. The book of Hosea ends with a call to repentance. If God's people will turn back to Him, they will flourish once again. Hosea 10 - 1:04 .  Hosea 11 - 4:37 .  Hosea 12 - 8:13 .  Hosea 13 - 10:32 .  Hosea 14 - 13:42 .  Psalm 143 - 15:57 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Hosea continues to prophesy against the house of Israel which often referred to as “Ephraim” in today's text. Our passage begins with Hosea calling for repentance, knowing that the Lord forgives. The Lord laments that Israel's love is fleeting like the morning mist, for they are not faithful to the Lord. Instead, they are promiscuous, going after foreign gods through pagan rituals involving threshing floors or self-mutilation. Because of this, the glory of the Lord God will leave them and they will be taken captive into Assyria and into Egypt. Their leaders will fall by the sword because of their rebellion against the Lord's covenant. Hosea 6 - 1:03 .  Hosea 7 - 2:58 .  Hosea 8 - 7:16 .  Hosea 9 - 10:03 .  Psalm 142 - 14:04 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Hosea was a contemporary of Amos whose ministry of prophecy lasted around 40 years, beginning during the reign of King Jeroboam II and ending during Hezekiah's reign, who Judah's next king in our chronological reading. Like Amos, Hosea spoke to the nation of Israel, often referenced as “Ephraim” in this book, under a time of lavish wealth and disparate poverty. Israel was being unfaithful to their God, and like the unfaithful nation the Lord has committed himself to love, Hosea is commanded to marry an unfaithful woman. Hosea's pursuit of his unfaithful wife serves a parallel to God's pursuit of unfaithful Israel, who loves foreign gods and decadent foods like raisin cakes more than the God of Israel. Hosea 1 - 1:08 .  Hosea 2 - 3:30 .  Hosea 3 - 9:17 .  Hosea 4 - 10:13 .  Hosea 5 - 13:46 .  Psalm 141 - 16:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We begin with a pronouncement against Tyre, an island city that served as profitable port which traded in luxurious goods. Tyre established a trading colony called Tarshish (thought to be in modern-day Spain) which boasted impressive ships. Assyria attempted to take Tyre a number of times, but it was Nebuchadnezzar who first infiltrated the island city, followed by Alexander the Great who destroyed it. The following chapters in this episode concern God's judgment of the whole earth, a judgment brought about by the sin of mankind. Though celebration will come to an end for a time, God will eventually prepare a feast for the peoples of earth and death will be destroyed forever. Keep your ears open for messages of resurrection as we read. Isaiah 23 - 1:03 .  Isaiah 24 - 4:30 .  Isaiah 25 - 9:16 .  Isaiah 26 - 11:58 .  Isaiah 27 - 16:00 .  Psalm 140 - 19:08 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today's reading includes pronouncements against the nations of Cush (which we now call Ethiopia) and Egypt. The Cushites will be judged by the Lord and left for dead, but after this judgment they will bring tribute to the Lord of Armies at Mount Zion. Egypt will be judged by God through a civil war, and neither idols, nor spiritists, nor wise men will save them from the Lord's hand. One day in the future, however, some Egyptians would worship the God of Israel, a dramatic turn of events given that Egypt had always been superior in military might with deep cultural ties to it's own gods. Pronouncements on other cities and nations follow, including Babylon, Dumah, Arabia, Jerusalem (called the Valley of Vision, here) and Shebna. Isaiah 18 - 1:03 .  Isaiah 19 - 2:53 .  Isaiah 20 - 7:50 .  Isaiah 21 - 10:03 .  Isaiah 22 - 13:17 .  Psalm 139 - 18:18 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We are back in the book of Isaiah, and as you'll hear the prophet himself mention, we are in the time period surrounding the death of Ahaz, that wicked king of Judah who not only created an idolatrous altar and set it up adjacent to the altar of God, but who sacrificed his own children to the gods of foreign nations. We begin with a pronouncement against Babylon, which contains assertions that they are God's chosen weapon of wrath against his disobedient people, AND that they will become desolate for their actions. Israel will return to the land and the king of Babylon will fall. Pronouncements against Philistia, Moab, and Damascus follow, and we'll conclude with a prophecy of judgment against Israel. Isaiah 13 - 1:03 .  Isaiah 14 - 5:34 .  Isaiah 15 - 13:15 .  Isaiah 16 - 15:13 .  Isaiah 17 - 18:21 .  Psalm 138 - 21:39 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We have completed the prophet Micah and we're moving back into the historical narrative to cover Judah's King Ahaz, a notably evil and idolatrous king who went so far as to even sacrifice his own children to foreign gods. After seeing an impressive altar in another nation, he has Uriah (one the priests of the Lord) build a replica of it. Rather than doing everything that the Lord has commanded Uriah to do, Scripture notes that “Uriah did everything King Ahaz commanded.” Finally, 2 Kings records the fall of Israel when King Shalmaneser of Assyria captures the capital city of Samaria. Why would God allow that to happen? Our reading from chapter 17 gives us a lengthy explanation. 2 Chronicles 28 - 1:05 .  2 Kings 16 - 7:10 .  2 Kings 17 - 12:44 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As we finish out the second half of the book of Micah, we'll immediately see another crystal clear prophecy; this one predicts that the coming Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, a small town that was unlikely to have anything significant take place within it. God promises that one day he will remove those earthly and idolatrous occupations which keep his people from worshipping him rightly, asserting that nations who have not obeyed him will receive his anger and wrath. Finally, Micah looks past the coming destruction of Israel to declare the future hope of redemption for those who repent from their sin and serve the Lord. Micah 5 - 1:06 .  Micah 6 - 4:11 .  Micah 7 - 8:46 .  Psalm 135 - 13:50 .  Psalm 136 - 16:29 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Given the time frame established by the prophet himself, Micah's prophecies are astoundingly clear and accurate, as he clearly pronounces the fall of Samaria, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the coming captivity in Babylon. The people had grown comfortable in religious activity but they were excusing sin and denying the possibility of judgment. He urges God's people to consider the nature and character of God Himself, and in so doing, they ought to repent in light of his justice and holiness. Micah 1 - 1:06 .  Micah 2 - 4:27 .  Micah 3 - 8:20 .  Micah 4 - 10:58 .  Psalm 134 - 14:35 .  Psalm 135 - 15:01 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We begin today's reading with a brief historical account from the book of 2 Chronicles covering the reign of Uzziah's son, King Jotham of Judah, before jumping back into Isaiah. Isaiah chapter 9 begins a prophecy about the birth of the Prince of Peace, a passage that many of us read in our church services during Advent or Christmas. In stark contrast, Isaiah moves on to consider the coming of Assyria, the instrument of God's wrath against his people. Remember that earlier in our reading plan, God's covenant at Mount Sinai with the people of Israel came with abundant blessings through obedience, or with dreadful curses for ignoring God's statutes. In chapter 11, Isaiah prophesies of a shoot that will grow from the stump of Jesse, pointing both to the judgment of God against Israel and a Messianic promise. 2 Chronicles 27 - 1:06 .  Isaiah 9 - 2:55 .  Isaiah 10 - 7:44 .  Isaiah 11 - 15:05 .  Isaiah 12 - 18:34 .  Psalm 133 - 19:58 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Recall from our last episode that Amos is a blue collar guy who was sent from Judah to prophesy against Israel. During a time of wealth, the rich had grown greedy, proud, and complacent, assuming that no harm could befall them. In their pride, they failed to consider the Lord, righteous conduct, or just dealings, opting instead to oppress those of lower status and lounge in luxury. Through Amos, the Lord calls Israel to live a life of justice and righteousness, but because they are hard of heart, the Lord's justice will pour out from upon those who have profaned God's holy name. Amos 6 - 1:06 .  Amos 7 - 3:58 .  Amos 8 - 8:19 .  Amos 9 - 11:08 .  Psalm 131 - 14:51 .  Psalm 132 - 15:32 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Amos was a prophet from Judah who travelled away from his homeland to prophesy against Israel. As his introduction states, Amos was a shepherd by trade, but he received instruction from the Lord to go north to Samaria around 760 BC. It was a time of great prosperity for Israel, but many farmers had been reduced to poverty. The wealthy gave them loans that they could not repay, forcing these debtors into slavery whereby the aristocrats seized their lands. They felt that their city walls and citadels would keep them safe and secure from danger, but the God of Israel sees all and will exact justice on those who have neglected his statutes. Amos 1 - 1:03 .  Amos 2 - 4:11 .  Amos 3 - 7:21 .  Amos 4 - 11:09 .  Amos 5 - 14:07 .  Psalm 130 - 19:13 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The signs, visions, and prophecies included into today's reading span from the death of King Uzziah into the beginning of Ahaz's reign, who continues the lineage of Davidic kings. In chapter 6 we get an awe-inspiring sneak peek into the throne room of God. Isaiah senses that he is unfit to be in God's presence, but an angel approaches to cleanse him in a unique way. After this, the Lord God commissions Isaiah to be his messenger. In chapter 7, Isaiah prophesies to King Ahaz of a virgin who conceive and give birth to a son and name him Immanuel. This prophecy had an immediate fulfillment, as a statement about the amount of time which would pass between then and the invasion of the Assyrian king, but it has it's ultimate fulfillment in the birth of Christ. Isaiah 6 - 1:06 .  Isaiah 7 - 4:16 .  Isaiah 8 - 9:44 .  Psalm 128 - 14:10 .  Psalm 129 - 15:00 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Judah has made the mistake of trusting in the armies of men, rather than trusting in God. As such is the case, the Lord God of armies will be removing every kind of security from Judah, which includes some securities which would be considered blessings from God, and some securities which would have been sinful and earthly. The righteous will eat the fruit of their labor, but the wick will only harvest judgment. Even in this bleak forecast, the Lord proclaims that those who survive will see the beautiful and glorious Branch of the Lord. Later, Isaiah writes a song about a vineyard that yields worthless grapes as a parallel to Jerusalem and Judah. Isaiah 3 - 1:05 .  Isaiah 4 - 5:14 .  Isaiah 5 - 7:21 .  Psalm 126 - 14:02 .  Psalm 127 - 15:00 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

So far in our chronological reading we've read two of the minor prophets, those being Obadiah and Jonah, and in today's episode we'll begin to read from our first major prophet, the prophet Isaiah. If you're familiar with the overall arch of Israel, Judah, and the prophets, you know that there were prophets before, during, and after the exile to Babylon. Starting with this episode, the majority of our reading for the rest of the year will be from the major and minor prophets with sections from history books interspersed as history moves along. Today we'll learn about King Uzziah of Judah from 2 Chronicles, where we are also briefly introduced to Isaiah before proceeding to the first two chapters of that book. 2 Chronicles 26 - 1:06 .  Isaiah 1 - 8:07 .  Isaiah 2 - 15:16 .  Psalm 124 - 19:34 .  Psalm 125 - 20:27 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

You might have missed it, but in our last episode, the writer of 2 Kings mentioned the fulfillment of prophecy through the prophet Jonah back in chapter 14. We have every reason to conclude that this prophet is the same Jonah sent to Ninevah in the minor prophet book by the same name. Instead of obeying the Lord, Jonah turns to go in the completely opposite direction. 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 eventually became aware of his hard-hearted response. We'll end the episode with a single chapter from 2 Kings and two short Psalms. Jonah 1 - 1:06 .  Jonah 2 - 4:55 .  Jonah 3 - 6:51 .  Jonah 4 - 8:54 .  2 Kings 15 - 11:29 .  Psalm 122 - 18:53 .  Psalm 123 - 20:00 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, we considered the life of King Joash, the baby heir to the throne who was rescued from a maniacal monarch, raised in the temple, and brought to kingship by Jehoiada the priest. Joash began by rebuilding the Lord's temple, then he abandons both the Lord's temple and the Lord. The Lord therefore abandons him and he is later assassinated. Amaziah begins well, but surprisingly turns to worship the idols of those he has defeated, and soon thereafter becomes overconfident, challenging Israel to war. In our reading from 2 Kings we'll encounter a few Israelite kings who ruled Israel during Amaziah's reign, including Jehoash who plunders Jerusalem after being provoked by Amaziah. 2 Chronicles 25 - 1:07 .  2 Kings 14 - 8:35 .  Psalm 120 - 14:42 .  Psalm 121 - 15:29 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Interestingly, we saw a few foreshadows of Jesus in our last episode, as a child who was meant to be king was swept away from a murderous monarch only to emerge victorious later. Today we'll examine the rule and reign of Joash, that child who became king of Judah. It seems that early in his reign he sought to repair the temple, and no wonder! He grew up in the temple from infancy into early childhood. When the work stalls, the make a plan, but later, the wealth of Judah will be handed over to King Hazael, that same servant who murdered his king after Elisha prophesied would rule over Aram. Later, in 2 Kings, we'll briefly cover two of Israel's evil kings, Jehoahaz and Jehoahash. 2 Chronicles 24 - 1:08 .  2 Kings 12 - 7:27 .  2 Kings 13 - 12:34 .  Psalm 119:161 - 18:47 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, the military commander, Jehu, was anointed as king. He and his men set out immediately to put an end to the house of Ahab, and in the process, he also killed the king of Judah, the evil king Ahaziah. Today, Jehu continues his conquest with a number of cunning strategies, killing Ahab's wife Jezebel, overthrowing the house of Ahab, destroying the prophets of a Baal, and avenging the blood of Naboth the Gileadite on behalf of the Lord. Remember that the Lord predicted Ahab's fall through Elijah, who has since been taken up into glory. Finally, we catch up to our last reading from 2 Chronicles by returning to the kings of Judah, where we'll hear a parallel to that book's account of Athaliah and Jehoiada. 2 Kings 9:30 - 1:08 .  2 Kings 10 - 2:49 .  2 Kings 11 - 11:36 .  Psalm 119:145-160 - 16:26 :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When we last left our reading covering the kingdom of Israel, the Arameans had laid siege against Samaria, Israel's capital city. This means that they were blocking people from going in or out so that the people might starve. The king of Israel, most likely Joram, son of Ahab, sends a messenger to Elisha, threatening him with violence. Today, Elisha predicts that they will soon be so flooded with food and grain that it will be hard to sell at even a fraction of its cost. Later, Jehu (a military commander) will be anointed as the next king of Israel by decree of Elisha and by a messenger sent by the prophet to anoint Jehu with oil. The newly anointed king then sets out to put an end to the house of Ahab. 2 Kings 7 - 1:08 .  2 Kings 8 - 6:32 .  2 Kings 9 - 13:18 .  Psalm 119:129 - 20:17 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today's episode contains some particularly gruesome imagery for children; parental discretion is advised. The kings and kingdoms of the land are growing increasingly chaotic and tumultuous, but in the midst of the chaos, the Lord continues to work and speak through his prophet, Elisha. 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 evil & desperate measures to try and survive. 2 Kings 5 - 1:05 .  2 Kings 6 - 8:54 .  Psalm 119:113 - 16:03 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We've been going back and forth between the books of 1 & 2 Kings and the books of 1 & 2 Chronicles, because each of these books contains a history of kings in Judah and Israel. However, as some of you already know the books of 1 & 2 Chronicles are focused on the kings of Judah, while 1 & 2 Kings cover a broader history including those kings from Judah as well as those from Israel, with large portions devoted to the prophets Elijah and Elisha. We're still playing a bit of catch-up in 2 Kings, as we'll read about King Joram of Israel who reigned at the same time as Jehoshaphat, King of Judah. Later, we'll read about a number of miraculous signs performed through Elisha. 2 Kings 3 - 1:06 .  2 Kings 4 - 7:13 .  Psalm 119:97 - 16:17 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When we read from 2 Chronicles in our last episode, we covered Edom's rebellion against Judah during Jehoram's reign, wherein they separated from Judah and established their own king. Obadiah rebukes this nation for their rebellion in our first reading. A return to the book of Kings, now in the second part, means a little backtracking: in short, Jehoshaphat is king and Jehoram has not yet taken the throne. Ahab's son Ahaziah is now on the throne in Samaria of Israel, 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. Last but not least, the prophet Elijah passes his mantle to Elisha who receives a double portion of Elijah's spirit. Obadiah - 1:03 .  2 Kings 1 - 6:10 .  2 Kings 2 - 11:43 .  Psalm 119:81 - 17:31 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode we covered the life of King Jehoshaphat who was faithful to the Lord, but in today's episode we witness the beginning of the end for the kings of Judah. Jehoshaphat's son, King Jehoram is straight-up Je-horrible and when he dies from a horrific intestinal disease, Scripture records that he “died to no one's regret.” Ouch. His son, Jehoahaz, whom we should note is mainly called Ahaziah, takes the throne after him for only one year before he is killed. After his death, his mother Athaliah goes on a killing spree in order to take the throne, but an heir to the throne in David's lineage is waiting undercover to take back the kingdom. 2 Chronicles 21 - 1:01 .  2 Chronicles 22 - 5:32 .  2 Chronicles 23 - 9:16 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When we last read from the book of 2 Chronicles we were introduced to Asa's son, King Jehoshaphat, and as we've read from 1 Kings, we've heard an account of his partnership with King Ahab of Israel. We'll hear some parallels from the 1 Kings account today, but we'll hear more about King Jehoshaphat then Ahab. Remember that Asa, Jehoshaphat's father, failed to call upon the name of the Lord when there was threat of war, but by contrast, Jehoshaphat regularly calls upon the Lord throughout this narrative. Each time Jehoshaphat humbles himself and prays or calls a prophet to inquire of the Lord, the Lord is gracious and delivers him from trouble, blessing Israel with riches and peace. 1 Chronicles 18 - 1:01 .  1 Chronicles 19 - 9:20 .  1 Chronicles 20 - 11:59 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.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 pronounced 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 - 1:06 .  1 Kings 22 - 8:00 .  Psalm 119:65 - 19:20 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.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 - 1:06 .  1 Kings 20 - 6:29 .  Psalm 119:49 - 17:45 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The line of kings in Israel began with Jeroboam who built golden calves for a more convenient worship experience. After him came Nadab, Baasha, Elah, Zimri, and Omri, all of whom were evil in the Lord's sight. This brings us to King Ahab, who 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 Baal 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 17 - 1:06 .  1 Kings 18 - 10:18 .  Psalm 119:33 - 17:12 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last reading, we left off with two kings, King Baasha, who has just become king over Israel, and king Asa, who has ruled over Judah for three years at the time of Baasha's ascension to the throne. Baasha became king by force, killing Jeroboam's son Nadab as well as the rest of Jeroboam's family. Take note of the rotating door of kings who rule over Israel, leading up to King Ahab, who is incredibly wicked. Not only that, you'll also notice how long Asa rules in faithfulness to the Lord while Israel's kings come and go. Later in 2 Chronicles, we'll hear the account of Baasha declaring war against Asa, who fails to trust in the Lord, and calls upon the king of Aram instead. 1 Kings 16 - 1:07 .  2 Chronicles 16 - 8:13 .   2 Chronicles 17 - 11:13 .  Psalm 119:17 - 14:36 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Our readings today examine the lives of two descendants of David who each reigned as king over Israel. First, there's Abijah (or Abijam), who reigned for only 3 years, but who makes an impassioned speech against Israel's king Jeroboam, warning him that he should not wage war against the Lord and those who serve Him. Abijah's son Asa takes the throne after him, and Asa devotes himself to the Lord for most of his life. The Lord rewards Asa's faithfulness by blessing the nation of Judah with a long period of peace. In 2 Chronicles we'll also read about two of Israel's kings: King Nadab is the son of Jeroboam, but he and the rest of Jeroboam's lineage are cut down and destroyed in accordance with God's judgment. Baasha becomes king after killing Nadab, and reign for 24 years. 1 Kings 15 - 1:07 .  2 Chronicles 13 - 7:28 .  2 Chronicles 14 - 13:03 .  2 Chronicles 15 - 16:15 .  Psalm 119:1 - 20:03 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Our episode begins with a retelling of the insulting manner in which Rehoboam addresses Jeroboam, only this time the account is from 2 Chronicles rather than 1 Kings. Recall that it was the prophet Ahijah who tore a new robe into 12 pieces and gave 10 pieces to Jeroboam, symbolizing the number of tribes he would rule over. After Jeroboam leads 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. As we read from 1 Kings 14, the same prophet who once declared God's favor now declares God's wrath upon the house of Jeroboam, for the king has acted wickedly. 2 Chronicles 10 - 1:08 .  2 Chronicles 11 - 5:04 .  2 Chronicles 12 - 9:21 .  1 Kings 14 - 13:01 .  Psalm 118 - 20:04 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

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 vowed 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, and the foolishness of his son Rehoboam causes a revolt and a division in the nation of Israel. Today, we'll be introduced to Jeroboam, a man who Ahijah prophesies will rule over ten tribes of Israel. If Jeroboam walks in the ways of the Lord, God promises that he will be with him and build a lasting dynasty for him. Sadly, Jeroboam attempts to establish a center for worship outside of Jerusalem that is not ordained by God. 1 Kings 11:26 - 1:10 .  1 Kings 12 - 5:05 .  1 Kings 13 - 13:04 .  Psalm 116 - 20:36 .  Psalm 117 - 22:51 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Solomon is not only a king, he is a king among kings, whose wisdom and splendor became well known. As such, the queen of Sheba pays him a visit to see his kingdom. Not only that, but the text tells us that “all the kings of the world wanted an audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart.” The 2 Chronicles passage concludes with Solomon's death, but 1 Kings gives us other details about the end of Solomon's life before concluding. In his old age, Solomon was not wholehearted in his devotion to the God of Israel, and his many wives turned his heart away to follow other gods. As such, the Lord tells Solomon he will tear the kingdom away from him. 2 Chronicles 9 - 1:07 .  1 Kings 10 - 7:22 .  1 Kings 11 - 14:00 .  Psalm 115 - 19:25 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We're concluding the book of Ecclesiastes today which was written by King Solomon. Keep in mind that we are reading the Old Testament chronologically, and when we've finished this book, we'll be back in 2 Chronicles and 1 Kings, covering the rest of Solomon's life. As you may have already heard, two major themes of the book of Ecclesiastes are the ideas of futility and humility. Though Solomon had almost every resource at his fingertips, he could not do all the things he wanted and though he could find pleasure, he could not find ultimate fulfillment in the things of earth. In all his searching, he ultimately concludes that men should enjoy life, fear God and keep his commands. Ecclesiastes 8 - 1:03 .  Ecclesiastes 9 - 4:36 .  Ecclesiastes 10 - 9:44 .  Ecclesiastes 11 - 12:31 .  Ecclesiastes 12 - 14:17 .  Psalm 114 - 17:15 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As we continue our chronological reading of the Old Testament, we're spending some time in the book of Ecclesiastes which was written by King Solomon. With all of his wealth, fame and wisdom, Solomon discerned that these things could not ultimately extend one's life or even necessarily make it better. No matter what a person may accomplish, one day he will die. In today's reading Solomon considers the rhythms of life, the nature of death and eternity, justice and injustice, authentic religion, and wealth. Our reading concludes with wise sayings in chapter 7, including proverbs, meditations on moderation, and the limitations of wisdom. Ecclesiastes 3 - 1:04 .  Ecclesiastes 4 - 4:32 .  Ecclesiastes 5 - 7:24 .  Ecclesiastes 6 - 12:21 .  Ecclesiastes 7 - 14:49 .  Psalm 113 - 19:41 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, we're going to be in four different books of the Old Testament, which makes this episode the record-holder in number of places. Don't worry, though: it's not any longer than the average episode. In 2 Chronicles and 1 Kings we'll cover Solomon's imposition of forced labor over non-Israelites and the initial institution of worship in the Lord's temple. From there, we'll transition to the book of Ecclesiastes, a wisdom book written by King Solomon. In it, the king tests the bounds of all that could be seen as valuable to men, and finds them all to be empty without God at the center. Finally, we'll read a short Psalm. 2 Chronicles 8 - 1:07 .  1 Kings 9 - 4:44 .  Ecclesiastes 1 - 10:47 .  Ecclesiastes 2 - 13:40 .  Psalm 112 - 19:19 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Solomon has finished the work of building the temple and the ark of the covenant is now in the newly constructed room known as the most holy place. The priests have consecrated themselves and will worship the Lord through music. Solomon prays to the Lord before the nation of Israel, asking God to hear their prayers, reminding the people through his prayer that God resides in heaven, and is not confined to the walls of the temple. At the conclusion of his prayer, the temple fills with a cloud and with the Lord's glory to such a degree that the priests are not able to continue ministering. The Lord responds to Solomon by reaffirming his commitment to David's lineage so long as they are faithful to His statutes. 2 Chronicles 6 - 1:03 .  2 Chronicles 7 - 10:48 .  Psalm 111 - 17:00 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.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. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today we'll conclude our readings about the construction of the Lord's temple and the king's palace built under Solomon's rule, stopping short of the dedication of the temple which we'll begin in our next episode. Remember, before the construction of this temple, Israel had worshipped the Lord under the tabernacle, a mobile worship center comprised of varying poles, beams, curtains, cloths, and furniture that could be packed up and moved from site to site as they traversed the wilderness. This grand temple complex mirrored the layout of the tabernacle but was decidedly more permanent, marking a turning point in Israel's history. 2 Chronicles 3 - 1:05 .  2 Chronicles 4 - 4:04 .  1 Kings 7 - 7:56 .  Psalm 108 - 16:56 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org