The Context and Color of the Bible

Send us a textSamson did what was right in his own eyes.Now we will watch as the tribe of Dan does what is right in their own eyes.  When you read this chapter, it's easy to think they are doing what God wants because we see and read about religious items and God's name being used....but it's time to look deeper.  It's time to connect some dots in this story to see what's really going on.  This story has a surprising twist at the end as well.   Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textWe've finished judging the judges, but the story is not over.  It's time to start to wrap up the book by looking at the people and the Levites. Remember this chapter links back to Judges 2. Erika explains what is going on in this chapter and shows us who has been missing while we studied the judges.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textIn this episode we uncover the intricate dynamics between a mighty man brought low by his own vulnerabilities (WOMEN) and a cunning woman whose name echoes through history as a symbol of deceit. Children's Bibles would have you believe Samson turned to God in the end and God redeemed Samson's life through his death. BUT is that really what happened? Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textRevenge and retaliation would be a good title for Samson's encounters with the Philistines.  Upon learning his marriage is over, Samson seeks revenge.  When the Philistines see Samson's revenge, they retaliate.  Finally, the tribe of Judah gets involved just to maintain the status quo with the Philistines.  But it doesn't end there. Find out what happens as we set the stage for the next chapter.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textSamson - a man with muscles, long hair, and BRAINS.  As Erika unpacks Judges 14, we watch Samson "go down."  Not only does he go down in altitude, but also in character and choices. Samson is supposed to save his people from the Philistines, but he continually chooses what is right in his eyes. (We've known since Genesis 3 that is not a good idea.) Judges 14 sets up multiple ways we watch Samson choose what is right in his own eyes. Erika mentions the books series by Lynn Austin.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textIt's time for our last judge.  Samson is a known for his strength and long hair, but what can we learn from his birth story?Samson's parents were visited by an angel before he was born.  His mom probably handled the situation better than his dad.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textJoin us as we explore the dramatic conflict between Jephthah, judge of Israel, and the men of Ephraim, who have been key players in all our stories so far. Erika compares Jephthah's interactions with Ephraim to Gideon's interactions with them.  Once again, we see how each judge doesn't live up to the actions of his predecessor. We will also look at the three minor judges before we dig into Samson next week. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textAs we continue our descent in the cycle of the judges, things start to feel very shaky.  Was Jephthah chosen by God or did God use him because that's who the people picked?  Jephthah brought about an incredible victory for the Lord, but that victory gets overshadowed by his vow.  Even after he made that vow, did he have other options?  Erika digs deep into this chapter to help us make sense of things that don't sit well with us - spoiler it's not meant to sit well.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textTime for a deep breath while we look at two minor judges.  We can all wonder what the days were like during these judges because we hardly get any information. Reading about two minor judges signals to us it's time for step down in the cycle.  Therefore, Erika introduces the story of Jephthah even though he's not mentioned in chapter 10.  Remember to look back at the criteria we saw with Othniel and see what's missing in the story of Jephthah. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textBefore we can completely wrap up Gideon's story, we are going to look at the actions of his son Abimelek.  Abimelek isn't a judge but the way he conducts himself shows us how Gideon's sins were passed down to his children. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textGideon has won a massive victory but what happens afterwards? How does he lead the people?  Gideon started out his story hiding in winepress, but where does his story end?  (Spoiler alert - he's no longer hiding.)  Does the end of his story overshadow his victories? Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textA fun story to tell in Sunday School is Judges 7 when God whittles down Gideon's army to a very small group.  But what were the lessons from this?  What did is show us about Gideon's faith in God and God's incredible patience with Gideon?Are we going to see Gideon give God the credit for the victory (like Ehud and Deborah did) or watch this aspect of the story fade away?Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textWe've stepped down into the next downward spiral with the story of Gideon.  Parts of his story are familiar but maybe we need to change our perspective on them.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textParental Warning - Judges 5 refers to rape and Erika does address that in the last 10 minutes of the podcast. Our next judge is Barak.  Right away some people might disagree and think Deborah is the judge because Bible translators put her name in the heading. Not only does Erika tell us the story and walk through all the events, but she lays out reasons why Barak fits the pattern of the judge (and the downfall of each judge) more than Deborah.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textIt's time to look at the judges.  But before we do, Erika gives us the pattern to look for and explains why it's important when we don't see it.We start with the first cycle - two major judges and one minor judge.  Othniel and then Ehud.  Ehud was really good, but he wasn't Othniel.  When we start the next cycle, the judges will take a big step down. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textIf Judges 1 tells you the what, Judges 2 tells you the why.Once again, we start the story over with Joshua is dead.  This time we look at why things didn't go as well for the people.  Erika gives us two lessons we can learn from this chapter and how God writes a story with lessons that transcend time and space. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textThe book of Joshua is about great victories in battle, but Judges doesn't have the same tone.  Instead, in this book we will read about Israel's failure to claim the land and how that disobedience affects the people for 200ish years.  This first chapter is all about conquering (or not conquering) the land of Promise. As Erika walks us through this first chapter, she lays a foundation for the chapters 3-16. Warning - some chapters have violence so even though we don't give specific details, we do mention the violence that is done. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textBefore we jump into the book, Erika sets the stage.  That means we look back to Joshua to see what he told the people before he died.   Because this is more than a story with a lesson, we can't just read it and look for plot, conflict, climax, and resolution.  Erika provides the structure to the book, so we know what to look for as we read.  You need to finish the book with the desire to see what happens next and how will Israel get out of the mess she is in. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textErika finishes up Mary and Joseph's story as well as Herod's. Her final take away point is that God redeems pain and we see that even in the first Christmas.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textErika loves the story of Herod's family.  Herod's family has a lot of drama.In this episode, she gives Herod's backstory and helps us understand why Joseph and Mary would have fled to Egypt as well as why the wisemen proceeded with caution. For more on Herod's story, check out episode 70.  To understand the word "messiah" check out episode 203.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textErika takes us through the very familiar story of the birth of Christ and puts it back into its culture.  She talks about how Mary and Joseph would travel to Bethlehem and where they stayed.  Erika explains why scholars think Jesus was born in the fall and what Mary and Joseph did after he was born to show their obedience to God's Torah found in Leviticus. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/All our books are available on Amazon.

Send us a textErika digs into the lives of Mary and Joseph before the birth of Jesus.  She paints a more realistic picture of what life would have been like.  It's good reminder that the first Christmas had pain and heartache.In this episode, we talk about the cultural norms around engagement, marriage and divorce in first century Israel. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/All our books are available on Amazon.

Send us a textVeronica unpacks the meaning behind the Hebrew words for joy.  She points out that joy is more than a feeling or attitude.  Joy has actions - it is a physical experience.  The other lesson that goes along with joy is that is something you share with others.  It's not meant to be an individual concept. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/All our books are available on Amazon.

Send us a textIn our last episode Bryan randomly decided we needed to do an entire bonus podcast on one point because he wanted to follow a rabbit trail, and we are so glad he did!He showed us that Micah and the eleven other minor prophets all reference Exodus 34:6-7.  Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textAs the book of Micah comes to a close, we see connections being made back to the Joshua and the conquest of the land.  But then you can go even further back and see connections to the Exodus and the Song of Moses in Exodus 15. Looking back gives Micah and the people hope as they look at their present reality.  We can have that same hope because we find similarities in Revelation 15 that our future will have that same redemption story.  If you want that podcast Bryan mentioned about the minor prophets, it's episode #148.Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Check out Shannon Popkin's new book "Shaped By God's Promises."

Send us a textThe court case came to a close in chapter 6 and now it's time to see what happens. We watch as evil and suffering surround the people.  It's not a good time for Jerusalem.  BUT Micah makes a statement in verse 7 that we all need to say and remember.  Then in verses 8-10 he explains why he has hope.  Bryan called this an invitation for us to tell the world why we can hope in the midst of darkness.  Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Check out Shannon Popkin's new book "Shaped By God's Promises."

Send us a textThis court case is drawing to a close and it's time to hear the closing arguments and the punishment. The episode on 1 Kings 21 that Bryan referred to is #92.Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Check out Shannon Popkin's new book "Shaped By God's Promises."

Send us a textThere is so much tone and attitude in these verses.  You'll miss it though if you don't understand the context of the story.  Bryan compares this chapter to the closing argument of the courtroom drama.  God is pulling in His witnesses (the mountains), and the people are using logic fallacies when they don't want answer God's questions.  Ultimately, God tells the people exactly what He expects of them, and we would do well to listen and obey as well.Want to listen to the different series we mentioned at the end?  Here's the list of episodes so you can go back and listen.  Genesis episodes - 125-146Exodus episodes - 43-59Leviticus episodes - 183-195Ruth episodes - 31-36Covenants episodes - 166, 167, 168Chesed episode - 181Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Check out Shannon Popkin's new book "Shaped By God's Promises."

Send us a textThere is a remnant of Israel who will remain victorious to the end.  Micah compares them to dew on the grass - not a powerful image until you understand it - and a lion walking among the sheep.Yet there is a message here for the nations who are watching.  If God disciplines His own children, how much more will He discipline those who aren't His.Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Check out Shannon Popkin's new book "Shaped By God's Promises.Check out Shannon Popkin's new book "Shaped By God's Promises."

Send us a textA leader is coming to bring victory to Israel.  Who is this leader?  Where does he come from?  How is his story connected back to Genesis?  What images are used to describe him?Listen as Bryan unpacks the first six verses of Micah 5 and shows us why this chapter is still included in the "hope" cycle.Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Check out Shannon Popkin's new book "Shaped By God's Promises."

Send us a textIn the first half of chapter four, we saw the ultimate future of Jerusalem, but in this second half Micah is telling the people what is going to happen in their future.  While destruction and exile are coming, there is still a hope and a reversal no one saw coming. We do reference Studio C's Lady Shadow in this episode.  If you don't know what either of those are, we highly suggest looking "Studio C Lady Shadow" up on YouTube.  It's a clean and wholesome sketch.   Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Check out Shannon Popkin's new book "Shaped By God's Promises."

Send us a textYAY!!  It's time for hope! Bryan pointed out in chapter 3 that we left with Jerusalem destroyed and laying in ashes.  In the first half of chapter four though we see Jerusalem restored and everyone coming to see, learn and hear from her King.  When does that happen and what exactly does that mean?  Find out on this podcast.Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textBryan wants to take this rabbit trail from Micah 3 to Jeremiah 26:16-19.  Let's find out how these two prophets influenced each other and us today. Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textWe are starting the second cycle of doom and hope which means chapter 3 ends ends on a downer. In this chapter Micah is calling out the religious leaders for their sins and explains what God is going to do to them.  God will make sure the punishment will fit the crime.  Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textIn chapter one we learned that Lady Samaria and Lady Jerusalem are on trial for a breach in the covenant.   In chapter two Micah is bringing specific examples of the breach.  However, this chapter will also end the first cycle of doom and hope. Once again we referenced episode 92 (1 Kings 21 - Ahab and Jezebel), episode 148 (an overview of all the prophets), and episode 168 (the Davidic covenant). Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a textTime to set the stage for the book of Micah.  But it's not a stage.  It's a courtroom.  Who's on trial?  What's the crime?  What is Micah's role?  Bryan VanHaitsma is back and diving into the book of Micah.  On this episode he's going to lay the foundation for the entire book as well as walk us through the first chapter.  Bryan is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.In this episode we referenced episode 92 (1 Kings), episode 148 (an overview of all the prophets), episode 168 (the Davidic covenant), and episode 180 (digging into the word shema).Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.We are trying something totally new today. Erika and I recorded our zoom call with Rachel from Links to Messiah to find out about her ministry and how she is helping families bring the Bible to life.  To find out more about Rachel, her ministry and all that she offers, click on the link below.  Links To Messiah | Guiding Families from Genesis to Jesus

Send us a Text Message.Veronica and Erika share how they started studying the Bible on their own.  They want to encourage you, so you start studying the Bible on your own without a Bible study workbook.   Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Erika is expanding our understanding of the resurrection in the world to come.  She is pulling her ideas from D Thomas Lancaster, Gerald R McDermott's book "A New History of Redemption" and Dwight Pryor. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Erika is expanding our understanding of the word good news or gospel.  She is showing us the meaning and understanding from the Old Testament and the New Testament.  She also connects these words to salvation and Christ. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Jesus Christ is a common phrase we hear, but what do you think when you hear the word Christ?  Erika is telling us what expectations and outlooks should come when we hear the word Christ.  She also gives tips to how we can remind ourselves of these truths when we hear it and read it.If you want to listen to our episode on the Davidic covenant, that is episode #168.  If you want to listen to our episode on prophet, priest, and king, that is episodes #174 and #175   Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.What do you think when you hear the word "salvation?"  What images and ideas come to mind?  What does Scripture teach us about this word?Erika takes us back to the Bible so show us what salvation meant in the Old Testament and how that applies to the New Testament and to us today.  The word is bigger than you realize.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.In episode #197 Erika talked about blessing God.  Veronica decided to dig deeper into that so we could understand how we can actually bless God.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.In episode #199 Erika gave us four lessons about prayer and God that she learned from Genesis 18. This time she's showing Jesus interaction and conversation with a Gentile woman.  Join us to find the similarities as well as the lessons we can learn from this story.Erika gives a final purpose of prayer and this one she calls the ultimate purpose of prayer.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Erika gives us four lessons about prayer and God that she learned from Genesis 18 when the Lord and Abraham talk about Sodom and Gomorrah. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Erika finishes story in this episode as well as provides the third purpose.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Let's find out the second purpose of prayer Erika discovered in her studies.  She referenced 2 Chronicles 20.   Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's  website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Did you know Erika's a retreat speaker?  She was recently asked to speak on the topic of prayer. Erika also shares part of her story and how for many months her prayers felt like they bounced off the ceiling.  You'll have to come back to the next episodes to hear the end of her story.  In the episode she walks us through the first purpose of prayer she discovered in Scripture.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's  website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Yes we know...the sound isn't the best but we promise next week it gets better again.However, this is still a great podcast because Veronica helps make the connections between Leviticus and the prophets, the gospels, James and Hebrews.  She explains why she thinks Leviticus is that necessary foundation that gives more structure and understanding to the rest of Scripture. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's  website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Send us a Text Message.Let's address the big issue right away....yes we know the sound is off.  We fixed the problem after the podcast.  But the content was too good not to share so give us a little grace for this podcast and know the sound will get back to normal.This episode is wrapping up the book of Leviticus and the final three chapters.  Again there is so much more going on than a list of rules and regulations.  Veronica takes us deeper into the meanings and purpose of these rules. Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's  website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode let's look at a brutal story about a man who cursed the Lord.  Does the punishment fit the crime or seem extreme?  How does this story relate back to Leviticus 10?  Seven feasts ordained by God as a "set time" to meet with Him.  What do you know about those feasts?  We cover a few more things to know here but have several podcasts that go more indepth in episodes #14, 15, 30, 103, 105, and 172.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleErika's  website - www.erikavanhaitsma.comMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/