Sauntering with Paul White

In the final sections of the masterpiece, Handel leads everything to a climax with the soprano solo voice, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" followed by the whole choir resounding with an anthem of praise echoing the choirs of heaven. Amen! Amen! Amen! Romans 8:31-34, Revelation 5:12-14 All musical samples are taken from: Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

The victory won by the Messiah means that death has been disarmed of its main threat - that of permanently isolating the human being from God's presence for ever. This is pretty important stuff and while Handel has our attention he makes sure he gives us the full message! 1 Corinthians 15:51-57 All musical samples are taken from: Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

Through the mouth of a gorgeous soprano soloist, Handel courageously grapples with the huge questions of death, bodily decomposition and resurrection. He takes the fashionable music-loving social elite on a thorough theological examination. Job 19:25,26, 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 All musical samples are taken from: Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

The most famous and instantly recognisable part of the whole Messiah - the Hallelujah Chorus. In many ways this is the defining moment in the Oratorio. We join the combined voices of every creature in heaven and earth worshipping God and the Messiah, the Lamb of God. We glimpse the great moment which will be the culmination of the great story of God and people, the Wedding Supper of the Lamb. Revelation 19:6, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 19:16 All musical samples are taken from: Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

In a world saturated with a non-stop flood of breaking news, current affairs and 24 hour global reportage it is easy to see world leaders as supersized characters competing like Titans on a huge stage. We clearly do see the effect of one nation's actions as it directly impacts our lives, but in this section Handel gives us a glimpse of another reality. Including something which God seems to find very amusing. Psalm 2:1-9 All musical samples are taken from: Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive  

We are inspired to become part of the great host of preachers with beautiful feet, prowling the good news of the Messiah!   All musical samples are taken from: Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

The scene changes dramatically from the suffering, despised and rejected Messiah, to the glorious conquering hero King. We see Jesus conquering the final enemy that faces each human being: Death. Psalm 24:7-10, Hebrews 1:5,6, Psalm 68:18 All musical samples are taken from Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

The human race has wandered away from the Shepherd and the Messiah will play the price to bring them back. All of the physical suffering of the Messiah is compounded by the staggering burden upon his shoulders, taking it far beyond that suffered by any other. Isaiah 53:6, Psalm 22:7,8, Psalm 69:20, Lamentations 1:12, Isaiah 53:8, Psalm 16:10 All musical samples are taken from Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

Part 2 of the Messiah leads with a significant plot twist - the shepherd who carried the lambs is now a Lamb. John the Baptist's words, "Behold the Lamb of God" set the tone for a more profoundly human and personal insight to the Messiah. This is a man familiar with suffering; the Saviour who takes the weight of sin and sorrow upon himself. This is one not to miss. John 1:29, Isaiah 53:3-5, Isaiah 50:6   All musical samples are taken from Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

Handel uses a classic test as to the authenticity of the Messiah, taken from Isaiah 35:5,6 - the blind are made able to see, the deaf to hear, the lame to walk and the mute to speak - all witnessed in Jesus by the gospel writers. This leads into the exquisitely tender, "he shall feed his flock like a shepherd" From Isaiah 40;11. Rejoice Greatly: Handel Advent Chamber Orchestra. Soprano Soloist, Cristina Piccardi. Wikimedia Commons   All other musical samples are taken from Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

Sleeping out under the stars a safe distance from civilised society, a cluster of shepherds are treated to a show like no other. They witness a one time in history display of heaven opened, and the sky filled with an angelic chorus who just cannot keep silent any longer! But why shepherds? All musical samples are taken from Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

Into a land of gross darkness, where God's people have gone far from him and are now consulting mediums and necromancers to find direction in life, God shines his light. He shines it specifically into the unpromising region of Galilee. Isaiah correctly identifies the epicentre of this event of global significance seven centuries before the Messiah is born. Also, Handel does a great job with the music! All musical samples are taken from Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

A wicked king is promised a sign from God that surely raised a few eyebrows: "Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son..." This prophecy was delivered seven centuries before Mary received her angelic message which launched what we now know as the Christmas story. Join me for another exciting episode opening the treasures of the Messiah. All musical samples are taken from Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive  

All musical samples are taken from: As his mental, physical and financial health all reach crisis point Handel finds the (supernatural) strength to pull off an absolute masterpiece in one month. We discover that the long-awaited Messiah will bring more than some bargained for - Who shall stand when he appears...? Haggai 2:6-7, Malachi 3:1-3 Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive  

The work opens with the sombre, moving but measured Overture. Part 1 begins with the Tenor: "Comfort ye". These are the words of the prophet Isaiah addressing the inhabitants of Jerusalem some 700 years before the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah. In this episode we see how often biblical prophecies have layers of meaning which speak to the contemporary listener, but also to successive generations. This is a tender, soulful opening to the Messiah which still speaks to an audience today.  All musical samples are taken from: Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive    

The magnificent Handel's Messiah is truly an artistic treasure itself, and it sparkles with the promise of yet more treasures to be opened and enjoyed. In this series we delve into the riches of the scripture texts which form the words, unearthing ancient prophecies which still speak powerfully today. Let your heart be stirred as we reflect again on the glorious gift of God in this run up to Christmas. All musical samples are taken from: Messiah by Handel; Jennifer Vyvyan; Norma Procter; George Maran; Owen Brannigan; London Philharmonic Choir; London Philharmonic Orchestra; Sir Adrian Boult London Records (XLLA-19) Contributor Internet Archive

A former IT installation consultant Brett Britton now serves others by rescuing wounded soldiers in Ukraine. As an ambulance crew medic he describes the challenges of supporting the seriously wounded on that critical journey from the front to the hospital. #wounded #warinukraine #volunteer #landmine #soldier #

2 Corinthians 13: Self Examination Paul comes in hot with some strong words of warning as he prepares the church for his third visit.  Check out the link for lots more content and my website https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=279d79eb-6042-43db-ab75-021b35066a54

2 Corinthians 12: Visions and Thorns Paul goes on presenting his credentials, against his better judgement, meanwhile we receive flashes of revelation that have become bedrock of Christian teaching. #apostle #thornintheflesh #visions #weakness #power Check out this link for loads more exciting content: https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=49b6c97b-f5bc-40b7-ada3-38911fd7bfb3

2 Corinthians 11: Real or Fake? Paul is jealous that the Corinthian church should remain faithful to Jesus. His fear is that they will be seduced by the fancy, but fake apostles trying to cash in on the success of the gospel. #fakeapostles For loads more content and details of my book check out https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=49b6c97b-f5bc-40b7-ada3-38911fd7bfb3

2 Corinthians 9: Beautiful Sowing This is such an exciting chapter where Paul unpacks the amazing secrets of generosity. We discover how to entrust our "seed" into the hands of God and watch what he does with it. This is all about increase and harvest. #harvest #increase #sowing https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c9097468-861c-4664-894e-000ce3e01937

2 Corinthians 8: Excellent Giving Paul is engaging in a little fundraising for the victims of a long famine impacting the believers at Jerusalem. The Macedonian believers have raised the bar by being super-generous in spite of their own poverty. #apostle #generosity  For loads more content check out https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=997d1634-1629-4348-a8f4-9dc8368fd020

2 Corinthians 7: No Regret Paul talks about a kind of sorrow which leads a person to Jesus. Jesus is the only one who offers complete forgiveness with no regret. #noregrets #apostle For loads more content https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=997d1634-1629-4348-a8f4-9dc8368fd020

2 Corinthians 6: Christ and Belial The message of Jesus and the Cross is a big enough stumbling block already without Paul causing an offence by the way he conducted his ministry. He also discusses picking a partner compatible with our call. #apostle #marriage #stumblingblock https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc200875-b88c-43a3-9578-0941d6c9ba3d

2 Corinthians 5 part 2: Ambassador The apostle is an ambassador of Christ entrusted with the business of reconciliation, made possible by Jesus. God is making his appeal to the human race through human ambassadors. #reconciliation #ambassador #apostle https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc200875-b88c-43a3-9578-0941d6c9ba3d

2 Corinthians 4 part 2: Glorified Mud Forget the container - look at the treasure. Paul continues to pull no punches about the sufferings he seems to live with - it's a sobering take on the life of a servant of Jesus. For loads more content: https://linktr.ee/paullwhite?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=84a8e5de-5591-44ad-bc31-ead53267d0ca

2 Corinthians 4 part 1: Disgraceful and Underhanded Disgraceful and underhanded ways, twisting the Word of God - all are anathema to the apostle. He renounces such manipulative tactics and promotes honest straightforward methods thereby winning the conscience of his hearers. For loads more content: https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

2 Corinthians 3 part 2: Ever Increasing Paul talks about the Law and the Old Covenant as a ministry that is fading out like the shining light on Moses' face. He tells how it has now been superseded by a ministry that just keeps becoming more and more glorious! For so much more content: https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

2 Corinthians 3 part 1: Policeman to Postman Paul makes some startling statements, bearing in mind his background as a conservative theologian. He defines the New Covenant as not dependant on laws inscribed in stone, but as the law of God encoded into our hearts - a miracle brought about by the Spirit.  https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

2 Corinthians 2: Painful Leadership Conversations The nature of leadership is taking people to a place where they are yet to be. This can sometimes require painful leadership conversations. The pain of not having the conversation may be that the church, family or company we love starts to slide, but sometimes having the conversation may lead to sorrow, too. For loads more content check: https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

2 Corinthians 1 part 2: Simplicity and Sincerity It seems there has been a slip in Paul's relationship with the church in Corinth after an extended period of his absence. Paul is writing as a reminder of what they have enjoyed together and rebuild the trust which has been lost. For social and loads more content https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

A Slow Saunter Through 2 Corinthians Chapter 1 part 1: Comfort and Squeezing Paul introduces God as the God of all comfort, then begins to describe the painful realities which come with the job of being an apostle!

How does a Muslim Turkmen boy growing up in a remote part of the atheistic Soviet Union end up as a disciple of Jesus? Listen as Ali shares his wonderful, but sometimes painful story. #turkmenistan #muslim #sovietunion #disciple #turkmen #grief #bereavement #atheism https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

Episode 3: Ultra Marathon. We look at the staggering possibility of a longterm friendship, not with some regular fellow human, but with Jesus Christ himself. We also ask: what does it mean to suffer with Jesus? #suffering #persecution #friendofgod #ultramarathon For loads more content, links and products https://www.paullwhite.com/ https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

Episode 2: Busy busy! When life is already at 100% pedal to the metal - raising children, working hard at a career, building a business, studying for exams - how can we have time for anything else? #busybusy #pedaltothemetal #overload #career #raisingkids #friendofgod https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

Episode 1 Start young. Gather an anthology of adventure stories. Start with lions and bears. #adventures #startyoung #pursuegod #friendofgod #david #goliath

The end of the world as we know it, the return of Jesus and the impending judgement - with that in mind, Peter instructs us on the kind of people we ought to be. 2 Peter 3. #endoftheworld #returnofchrist #endtimes #secondcoming  

False prophets and false teachers it seems are an inevitable interference to the spread of the beautiful good news of Jesus. Peter shares some helpful ways to identify them and reminds us of the awesome judgement of God that is coming to the world. #judgement #falseprophets  For loads more content visit https://www.paullwhite.com

Prophecy is a light shining in a dark place - Jesus is prophecy perfectly fulfilled. Peter also shares some useful insight into how the prophets received their messages from God. #prophecy #light #darkness #fulfilment #carriedalong For loads more great content, visit https://www.paullwhite.com  

Peter's second letter launches this most mind-blowing of concepts, that we get to become partakers of God's divine nature! 2 Peter 1 part 1 #divinenature #mindblowing #precious #excellence #dunamis #thechristing For more exciting content hit https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

Peter doesn't claim to be the Pope, the Senior Apostle or any other grand title, he writes to elders as a fellow elder. Here are some great guiding principles for leadership from one of Jesus' best friends. #elders #leadership #shepherd #flock #pastor #thechristing For loads more check out https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

By the way, don't be surprised! Encouraging words from Peter when we are going through fiery trails... 1 Peter 4 part 2

Peter hands us a weapon designed to bring down our enemy... 1 Peter 4 part 1 #weaponised #warfare #battle  For loads more content go to: https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

(Updated with correct audio) The power that is delivered by the words we let past our lips, sharing our love for Jesus with gentleness and respect, and loads more from the Apostle Peter! 1 Peter 3 part 2 #gentleness #respect #sharing #1Peter #thechristing #blessing #powerorwords For loads more content: https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

Peter now addresses wives and husbands, bringing our attention to the amazing heart of Jesus. We discover that God is very interested in what is going on in our marriages. 1 Peter 3 part 1 #submission #honour #marriage #1Peter #saunter https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

Some challenging stuff here - submitting to secular authority, suffering unjustly and following the example of Jesus. 1 Peter 2 part 2

Reject the worthless, choose the precious! 1 Peter 2 part 1

Peter makes some stark contrasts between what was before Jesus and what is now, after Jesus.

A brand new Saunter through the two letters of Peter - the guy who hid in the shadows, who then became the leading spokesperson for the first generation apostles. #peter #apostle #precious #sauntering #breakfastofchampions

When rocks are raining down on your head, not because of an avalanche, but because a lynch mob are trying to kill you, things are getting pretty tough. It's often hard to see what purpose is served by times of immense pressure or trials. The apostle Paul calls this process tribulation. It means being squeezed on all sides - like an baby being forced through the birth canal during labour... #tribulation #underpressure #squeezing #thechristing For loads more content, link to my website and how to by my book The Christing, click https://linktr.ee/paullwhite

How do we care for those approaching the end of life in such a way that maintains their sense of dignity? Ruth Mouton is a palliative care nurse working in Switzerland. She shares with me her beautiful heart of compassion for those who no longer have strength to care for themselves. #compassion #endoflife #switzerland #france #ukraine #palliativecare