Podcasts about Aramaic

Prayer in Aramaic and String Theory, Canada controlled by ET's?, the movie The Matrix and mind control, your liver and Orion. :círculo_rojo: Watch this episode on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CD8k0vPM2ZI :delfín: www.francesfox.com :círculo_azul_grande: Follow our socials: Facebook: / francesfoxreveals TikTok: / francesfoxreveals Instagram: Mantrista Movement :sonido: PODCASTS FRANCESFOX NEWS FROM OTHER DIMENSIONS Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3klq8Gm Spotify: spoti.fi/2ztsttt Stitcher: bit.ly/ffstitcher

Romans 8:16 in the Peshitta reads, “And she the Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,” This Shavuot let's embrace the feminine nature of the Holy Spirit from the Hebrew and Aramaic traditions and gain comfort for our souls in a time when so many need love and comforting.

Retroactive Bracha !!?Thinking is speaking… Brachot in Aramaic??!Who should make the Bracha for everyone??!!Do I give the Bracha to my parent?Don't eat bread before the Ba'al Habayit!!!

Welcome back to the pod! Have you ever wondered how the Bible was written, and how exactly it's structured? Listen to today's episode as we talk about those things, as well as unpacking why it matter to us spiritually.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --How the Bible WorksToday we continue our How Stuff Works series with a topic that's both deeply theological and intensely practical: How the Bible Works. For Christians, the Bible is more than just a religious book—it's the inspired Word of God. But where did it come from? How is it structured? And how do we read it in a way that transforms our lives?These are big questions, and this summary explores three essential truths that come from our Bible Basics series:1. Where Did We Get the Bible?The Bible didn't fall from the sky, nor was it just a random collection of human wisdom. Scripture teaches that the Bible was inspired by the Holy Spirit.2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT) “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.”“Inspired” literally means “God-breathed.” That means the words of the Bible carry the very breath of God, and He speaks to us through its pages.Mark 12:36 (NLT) “For David himself, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, said…”Jesus affirmed the divine origin of the Old Testament scriptures. The human authors wrote using their own style and voice, but were guided by the Spirit of God.2 Peter 1:20-21 (NLT) “No prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet's own understanding... those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.”Verbal plenary inspiration means that the very words (verbal) and all parts (plenary) of Scripture are inspired by God. Though the original manuscripts were written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, God has preserved His message through faithful transmission and translation.Translation Types:Word-for-Word (Formal): ESV, NASBThought-for-Thought (Dynamic): NIV, NLTWhile only the original manuscripts are infallible, modern translations are trustworthy because of careful preservation, thousands of manuscripts, and the sovereignty of God.2. What Is the Structure of the Bible?The Bible is one book made up of 66 individual books, divided into two testaments:Old Testament (39 Books): Written over 1,000 years and originally part of the Hebrew Bible, it includes:Law (Genesis–Deuteronomy)History (Joshua–Esther)Wisdom/Poetry (Job–Song of...

(4:08) Bible Study: John 15:1-8 What does it mean to be pruned by God the Father? (19:24) Break 1 (20:19) Letters: A former Satanist baptized himself; is that possible? Does God eternally suffer in the crucifixion? Father answers these and other questions. Send him a letter at simon@relevantradio.com (33:15) Break 2 (33:50) Word of the Day Covenant (38:23) Phones: Alyssa - What does a priest do in an emergency scenario? Example, what do they do if someone has a heart attack? Connie - Husband has decided to become Catholic. They gave him the RCIA book, but doesn't start until fall. He thinks because he's a baptized Catholic, he doesn't have to take RCIA. Is that true? Teresa - What is the exact word Jesus would have said in Aramaic when he said, 'Do this in memory of me?'

Pastor Vera McEwen is incredibly excited to give an open welcome to all at Love God Ministries! An online community where all truly are welcome, Pastor Vera embodies the Love of Christ through witness and discipleship. She founded Love God Ministries because conversations with people revealed a need for a community of believers where it does not matter how you look but recognize that you are a child of God.Pastor Vera has been teaching and preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Word of God for over 30 years. Her primary emphasis is spreading God's Love by providing pastoral care, preaching God's Loving Word, teaching God's Light-Filled Word, and implementing God's Living relational group architecture via in home communities.She is currently reviewing the prospects of a doctorate in religious studies with an emphasis on Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic as encouraged by her professors at seminary. In addition to her vocation as Pastor she ministers as a certified professional and personal coach.With God's help, she implements 1 Thessalonians 5.11, motivating people to be and do their very best by building one another up. Pastor Vera is a joyous, ever singing sister in Christ who after years of being pursued by God, stopped running and answered the call, halleluiah, הַלְלוּיָהhttps://www.lovegod-ministries.org/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

In this episode, from a chapel service held on Tuesday 1 April 2025, Paul Williamson, Lecturer in Old Testament, Hebrew and Aramaic at Moore Theological College, speaks on Malachi 3:13-4:6 and Malachi's final appeal to turn back to God.Paul reminds us that the Day of the Lord is coming. Those who have placed their confidence in God and God alone have nothing to worry about. But those who fail to repent can expect to one day face the terrifying, all-consuming inferno of God's wrath.Listen to the rest of Paul's series on the Book of Malachi.For more audio resources, visit the Moore College website. There, you can also make a donation to support the work of the College.Contact us and find us on socials.Find out more about the 2025 Annual Moore College Lectures.Please note: The episode transcript provided is AI-generated and has not been checked for accuracy. If quoting, please check against the audio.

Friday Bible Study (5/9/25) // 2 Kings 18: 13-37 // Visit our website: https://mbchicago.org Follow us to remain connected: Facebook:   / mbc.chicago   Instagram:   / mbc.chicago   TikTok:   / mbc.chicago   Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others To support this ministry, you can donate via: Zelle to: info@mbchicago.org Website: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but... 2 Kings 18: 13-37 (ESV)Sennacherib Attacks Judah13 In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah, Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against all the fortified cities of Judah and took them. 14 And Hezekiah king of Judah sent to the king of Assyria at Lachish, saying, “I have done wrong; withdraw from me. Whatever you impose on me I will bear.” And the king of Assyria required of Hezekiah king of Judah three hundred talents[a] of silver and thirty talents of gold. 15 And Hezekiah gave him all the silver that was found in the house of the Lord and in the treasuries of the king's house. 16 At that time Hezekiah stripped the gold from the doors of the temple of the Lord and from the doorposts that Hezekiah king of Judah had overlaid and gave it to the king of Assyria. 17 And the king of Assyria sent the Tartan, the Rab-saris, and the Rabshakeh with a great army from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. And they went up and came to Jerusalem. When they arrived, they came and stood by the conduit of the upper pool, which is on the highway to the Washer's Field. 18 And when they called for the king, there came out to them Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, and Shebnah the secretary, and Joah the son of Asaph, the recorder.19 And the Rabshakeh said to them, “Say to Hezekiah, ‘Thus says the great king, the king of Assyria: On what do you rest this trust of yours? 20 Do you think that mere words are strategy and power for war? In whom do you now trust, that you have rebelled against me? 21 Behold, you are trusting now in Egypt, that broken reed of a staff, which will pierce the hand of any man who leans on it. Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who trust in him. 22 But if you say to me, “We trust in the Lord our God,” is it not he whose high places and altars Hezekiah has removed, saying to Judah and to Jerusalem, “You shall worship before this altar in Jerusalem”? 23 Come now, make a wager with my master the king of Assyria: I will give you two thousand horses, if you are able on your part to set riders on them. 24 How then can you repulse a single captain among the least of my master's servants, when you trust in Egypt for chariots and for horsemen? 25 Moreover, is it without the Lord that I have come up against this place to destroy it? The Lord said to me, “Go up against this land and destroy it.”'”26 Then Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Shebnah, and Joah, said to the Rabshakeh, “Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, for we understand it. Do not speak to us in the language of Judah within the hearing of the people who are on the wall.” 27 But the Rabshakeh said to them, “Has my master sent me to speak these words to your master and to you, and not to the men sitting on the wall, who are doomed with you to eat their own dung and to drink their own urine?”28 Then the Rabshakeh stood and called out in a loud voice in the language of Judah: “Hear the word of the great king, the king of Assyria! 29 Thus says the king: ‘Do not let Hezekiah deceive you, for he will not be able to deliver you out of my[b] hand. 30 #mbchicago #2kings | #BibleStudy | #DanielBatarseh | #mbchicago | #mbcchicago | #Bible | #livechurch | #churchlive | #chicagochurch | #chicagochurches | #versebyverse | #church | #chicago | #sermon | #bibleexplained | #bibleproject | #bibleverse #versebyverse #oldtestament

Creating Jesus is a book for general readers on the Gospel of Mark as the earliest surviving witness of the life of Yeshua ("Jesus" in Aramaic) of Nazareth. Dennis Kennedy applies his expertise in literary and performance studies to examining Mark as a literary and historical document and describes in straightforward style how it differs from the other Gospels, what it meant in its time, and how it has been used in history. He investigates the oral Jesus tradition before Mark, the radical act of writing about a crucified preacher from the hinterland, the expansion of the Messiah cult in the Roman Empire, and the character of the faith that the earliest Gospel proposes. Interspersed with incidents from Kennedy's own education, Creating Jesus seeks to reveal why Mark was written, the great influence it has had, and how it might question the nature of Christianity in the present.

#32 The Allegory Story (Spiritual Sabbath-Aramaic Style)

I was introduced to Tom by Thomas from Season 1. I dubbed Thomas, "Chosen Dad," because one of the key things that he shared with me was the concept of chosen family, the people who aren't biologically family to you but become your family through the power and constancy of their presence in your life. Tom and Thomas became chosen family to one another through Young Life, a Christian ministry for teens where Tom, in his capacity as Young Life staff, mentored Thomas. If you're confused at this point about which one's Tom and which one's Thomas, that's totally understandable. In fact, maybe that's the point, because their stories are like the shards of a once-broken object, their jagged, imperfect edges coming together to redeem the wasn't-supposed-to-be-this-way wounds of childhood into a meant-to-be miracle. In our conversation, Tom shares great wisdom and insight on two demographics that are especially pertinent to us dads: teenagers and middle-aged men, the two constituencies that he's ministered to in his 20-plus year career as a pastor. He also shares candidly about his pain from childhood, the healing he's received, and the growing up he still has left to do.One more thing to introduce this interview: I looked up the origin of the name Thomas and its shortened form, Tom, and it turns out that it's an Aramaic name that means "twin," so you might say that this episode pretty much named itself: Tom, Chosen Dad.Enjoy the transcript as well, specially prepared for clarity and impact.

Pastor Vera McEwen is incredibly excited to give an open welcome to all at Love God Ministries! An online community where all truly are welcome, Pastor Vera embodies the Love of Christ through witness and discipleship. She founded Love God Ministries because conversations with people revealed a need for a community of believers where it does not matter how you look but recognize that you are a child of God.Pastor Vera has been teaching and preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Word of God for over 30 years. Her primary emphasis is spreading God's Love by providing pastoral care, preaching God's Loving Word, teaching God's Light-Filled Word, and implementing God's Living relational group architecture via in home communities.She is currently reviewing the prospects of a doctorate in religious studies with an emphasis on Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic as encouraged by her professors at seminary. In addition to her vocation as Pastor she ministers as a certified professional and personal coach.With God's help, she implements 1 Thessalonians 5.11, motivating people to be and do their very best by building one another up. Pastor Vera is a joyous, ever singing sister in Christ who after years of being pursued by God, stopped running and answered the call, halleluiah, הַלְלוּיָהhttps://www.lovegod-ministries.org/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

Dan. 5:2, within the Aramaic portion of Daniel, has always been taken to refer to the king, his nobles, his wives, and his concubines, but a fresh look at the Aramaic and its context suggests that the last were female officials, not concubines. Dr. Aubrey Buster, who has been with us before, is Associate Professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College. Her publications include Remembering the Story of Israel: Historical Summaries and Memory Formation in Second Temple Judaism. She and John Walton are co-authoring a major commentary on Daniel (NICOT). The first volume on Daniel 1-6 is due out soon. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4m02lJy  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4jUhz0K 

TODAY'S TREASUREJesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!”Luke 23:16aSend us a comment!Support the show

Saturday, 10 May 2025   Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; Matthew 10:3   “Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew, the taxman. Jacob the ‘of Alphaeus,' and Lebbaios, having been denominated Thaddaeus” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus' apostles began to be listed. The next names in the list begin with “Philip.”   Philip has been with Jesus since the time He was in Judea, as is recorded in John 1. However, he is only first mentioned here in Matthew's gospel. This was a common Greek name, especially because of the founder of the monarchy of the Macedonians, Philip, the father of Alexander the Great.   The name is derived from philos, friendly, and hippos, a horse. As such, it signifies Lover of Horses. Next, it says, “and Bartholomew.”   This is not a given name, but signifies Son of Talmai. The word bar is the Aramaic word for son. Talmai would be the name of his father. It means Plowman. Hence, he is Son of Plowman. Bartholomew is believed to be the same as Nathanael.   If so, he was from Cana in the Galilee, as is recorded in John 21:2. The two were together in John 1:44. As such, it would make sense that they are listed together and probably were sent out together. Nathanael is from the Hebrew Nethanel. It means Given of God or God has Given. Next in the list is “Thomas.”   The name is derived from the Hebrew to'am, twin. As such, his name means Twin. He is also called Didymus, the Greek word for Twin. Next, it says, “and Matthew, the taxman.”   Matthew was introduced in Matthew 9:9. He is the tax collector called by Jesus, who is also known as Levi. In Mark and Luke, Thomas and Matthew are named in reverse order.   The seeming implication is that Matthew and Thomas are twins, with Matthew being the older. However, in his humility, he places his brother Thomas, the twin, first. Whereas the other two place him according to birth order. This is only speculation, but it does fit. Next, it says, “Jacob the ‘of Alphaeus.'”   Jacob is derived from the Hebrew Yaaqob, the meaning of which was explained in Matthew 1:2. His father is identified as Alphaeus. It is believed to be derived from the Hebrew name Heleph found in Joshua 19:33.   That comes from the noun kheleph, an exchange. In other words, “Your compensation for this will be this.” That comes from khalaph, a verb signifying to pass on or pass through. The sense is still of a change, though. Thus, the name means Change or Exchange. Next, it says, “and Lebbaios.”   This name is only found in some Greek texts. Others skip it and go straight to his other name. This name is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word lev, the heart. The extended word derived from that is levav. This gives the sense of courage (and in being heartened).   Therefore, the name probably means Heart, Courageous, Sentimental, or Lionlike. In other words, something to do with the condition of the heart. Of him, it says, “having been denominated Thaddaeus.”   In other words, this is a name bestowed upon someone. The name is believed to be derived from the Aramaic word tadday, the breast. As such, it may be a somewhat euphemistic way of calling him something like Breast Boy, meaning “mommy's boy.” It may speak of his immaturity or of his inability to break away from her control.   Life application: In these names, like in all things in the Bible, we are being given information about other things. Some of these names will make connections back to Old Testament passages so that when they are studied, typology will be revealed.   It is not wise to jump to sudden conclusions, making dubious connections until a thorough study of the words and names is made. This is especially true when using English translations. Quite often, people will read a passage that may have the same English word in the Old Testament that is found in a passage in the New Testament.   From there, a conclusion is made that there is a pattern or parallel. However, when the root words are studied, it is discovered that there is no etymological connection. In other words, a pretext was formed by wrongly associating two passages which had nothing to do with one another.   This is quite common, and it has led to piles and piles of incorrect deductions. However, once such incorrect connections are made, they quickly get passed on and become standard teachings, even though they are wrong. As such, it is always best to take patterns and parallels based on English words with a grain of salt until one is sure that the connection is valid. Therefore, be circumspect in what you accept.   Lord God, thank You for the challenge Your word presents us. We are given this treasure and should, therefore, handle it carefully. Help us to remember to do so at all times. May we never teach something that is not first checked out and substantiated to be correct. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

Friday, 9 May 2025   Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Matthew 10:2   “And the twelve apostles, the names, they are these: First, Simon, being called Peter, and Andrew, his brother. James the ‘of Zebedee,' and John, his brother” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus called His twelve disciples together and gave them power over spirits and sicknesses. Matthew continues his narrative with, “And the twelve apostles.”   The word apostolos, apostles, is introduced. It signifies a delegate or one who is sent. In this case, being apostles of Jesus, they are essentially ambassadors of Jesus for the mission of conveying the gospel. Understanding that, it next says, “the names, they are these.”   Matthew will give a list of the selected men. They are not the same names recorded in each gospel, but they are the same people, being described by the differing names each possessed, such as Simon being Peter. The names are recorded in Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, Luke 6:13-16, and Acts 1:13.   In all lists, Simon (Peter) is recorded first, while Judas the betrayer is listed last. Each time they are listed, they are divided into three separate groups of four each. However, the internal grouping of each group is not always the same.   For an extensive analysis of the patterns of groupings, names, and relationships of these apostles, consulting the commentary of Charles Ellicott will provide great detail. Of these men, the list begins with, “First, Simon, being called Peter.”   The name is derived from the Hebrew name Shimon, which, in turn, is derived from the verb shama, to hear. Thus, the name means Hearing or He Who Hears. Peter is derived from the Greek petra, a rock, and this is the meaning of the name. He is also called Kephas, the Aramaic name meaning Rock. Next, it says, “and Andrew, his brother.”   The name is derived from anér, a male human, a man, a husband. The meaning is Manly, but that can also be equated to Courageous or Brave. Next is “James the ‘of Zebedee.'”   Both names are given detailed explanations in the commentary on Matthew 4:21. The last name in this verse is given next, saying, “and John, his brother.”   The meaning of this name was also explained in Matthew 4:21.   Life application: It is not uncommon to see people on social media call themselves Apostle This or Apostle That. The implication is that they are to be likened to the apostles in the Bible.   There is a problem with this. The title, as noted above, signifies a delegate. One does not designate oneself a delegate or an ambassador. Rather, that appointment comes from the one they represent. In the case of an apostle of Jesus, it means a person must be appointed by Jesus.   There are certain qualifications for the position that are explained in the Bible, none of which apply today. Like the sons of Israel, there is a set number of apostles. In the case of the sons of Israel, there are the twelve born to Jacob through his wives Leah, Rachel, Zilpah, and Bilhah.   There are also the two sons of Joseph who were adopted by Jacob as his own, as is recorded in Genesis 48. This makes a total of fourteen sons. Likewise, there are the twelve apostles named by Jesus in the gospels. There is then Matthias, who was selected to replace Judas in Acts 1.   This is then followed by Paul, who was personally selected by Jesus, “as by one born out of due time” according to 1 Corinthians 15. Thus, there are fourteen named apostles. Like the sons of Israel, that is all there are. Therefore, to claim to be an apostle of Jesus is biblically incorrect and unacceptable.   Denominations, such as Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodox, Swedish Lutheran, Anglicans, etc., who claim apostolic succession do so without biblical support. There is no such thing.   Be careful to evaluate people in the ministry based on their adherence to Scripture, not on a title, degree, or capability (such as knowing Hebrew or Greek). Instead, what matters is how they handle Scripture.   The Bible designates the number of sons of Israel. It also designates the number of apostles of Jesus. In this process, God is providing us with information. Patterns are made for us to understand what is on God's mind and what He is doing in the stream of redemptive history. Pay attention to such things, and a greater understanding of the workings of God will be realized.   Lord God, how grateful we are to You for Your wonderful and amazing word. We stand in awe at the wisdom behind it. For thousands of years, man has been studying it. And yet, it continues to provide us with new information from day to day. Praise You for Your word! Amen.  

In this episode, I'm continuing a conversation that began last week, where I challenged the mainstream Christian view of spiritual concepts like energy, frequency, and Christ consciousness. As someone called to be salt and light, I believe it's essential to speak up when truth is being distorted. Jesus didn't call us to worship him passively but to follow him actively—something many modern believers seem to forget.To be like Christ is to vibrationally align yourself with divine love and coherence. Jesus's teachings in Aramaic reveal that loving God and neighbor isn't just moral advice—it's a call to fully merge your breath, soul, will, and energy with the Source. Christianity was never meant to be a religion of fear and control; it was a path of awakening, of becoming little Christs who live and love in divine resonance.Part of that alignment comes through remembering how different the male and female bodies are designed spiritually. We don't walk the same path to the divine as men do, and we shouldn't try. Where men find coherence through action and sacrifice, we find it through stillness, through feeling, through being. We must allow ourselves to return to the essence of our design. Jesus modeled this when he encountered women—he called forth their essence, healed them through recognition, not reprimand. Everything I teach pours from this deep remembering—that Christ is a frequency, and we are meant to carry it, not just believe in it. We are meant to become it. Tune in today to hear more! In this episode:[00:37] Welcome back to The Fully Nourished Podcast![01:38] A little review of what we talked about last week. [05:01] What is the Christ frequency?[09:16] What is the true meaning behind Matthew 22:37-39?[15:49] In Matthew 7:7, what does it truly mean to ask and receive?[19:38] When we are aligned, we are co-creators with the cosmos.[21:00] What does life look like when you are a member of the body of light? [24:10] Being a true Christian requires you to do the work. [25:38] What is the difference between the spiritual paths for men and women?[33:17] Jesus did not treat men and women equally. [40:37] Thanks for joining me on The Fully Nourished Podcast today!Links and Resources:Want to learn more about the Logos/Christ Frequency?Prayers of the Cosmos by Neil Douglas Klotz: https://amzn.to/3GvUJONFragments of Herclitus: https://amzn.to/4jtTH4dThe Jesus Way Podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKVRMm6i0kgiHUmAqKSDYbperFKgOX0ug&si=bZsUV_lp8cSWS1hqGet more info on Philosophia Society Here:https://www.jessicaashwellness.com/philosophia-societySubmit a Question for our Next Q&A:https://airtable.com/appoicByQy3UFoSXs/shrXwD7wQFJQr68NnSign Up for Sunday Tea Here: https://jessica-ash-wellness.ck.page/04f86a550fConnect with Jessica:Have Sunday tea with me! Sign-up for my Sunday newsletter where I share what's on my brain from the nutritional to spiritual: https://www.jessicaashwellness.com/email-subscribe. Join the Fully Nourished community! Follow me @jessicaashwellness on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicaashwellness/

The English Bible is a translation of manuscripts in Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic. How did we get the manuscripts that Bible translations use? Why do we see differences between different translations of the Bible, and should this concern us? Andrew Lamicela pulls from his experience as a teacher of biblical Greek to explore why biblical languages matter to us today.NET Bible: Biblical Language Center: biblingo: The Polis Institute: Episode on Bible Study: This is the 266th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

The IPS Morning Deprogram5/5/25 The IPS Morning Deprogram is planned to be a steady program beginning in 2025, operating in the mornings, with evening open phone sessions complementing it. The purpose of the Morning D program is to set the stage for later discussions. The host utilizes automations and AI agents in their workflow. The program is described as a "work in progress," not yet in its "final form".The core focus of the program is media analysis and propaganda analysis, covering information from both news and entertainment. The host positions the program's approach as philosophical, detached, and distinct from conspiracy theorists, mainstream news, activists, or QAnon. The goal is not to "wake people up" or "fight the deep state".The session begins with a discussion of a clip from an individual who worked in security for 15 years, commenting on the Trump assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, in July. The security expert suggests the attempt was staged because standard security protocol dictates keeping the target on the ground and shielded, not standing them upright for a "photo op". The host agrees that the event was staged but argues that the security expert's perspective is limited because he is "in the box" of mainstream mediation and mixes "real" and "fake" elements. This mixing of real and fake is labeled as "confusion," "MSM Plus," or a "normie take".The host contends that when someone believes an event is partially real (e.g., believing a shooter or victim died) while also seeing signs of fakery, they often invent complex explanations or conspiracy theories to reconcile the inconsistencies. Examples given include the idea that a "degenerate kid" was hired to shoot and miss but accidentally killed someone, or questioning how an AP photographer captured the bullet.The host's approach is informed disbelief and suspending judgment when consuming media. The principle is that "if there's any hint of fakery body count goes to zero" until an actual crime is proven. This contrasts with "conspiracy theorists" or "false flaggers" who might believe an event is a conspiracy but still accept that people died.A significant theme is the critique of the left-right political paradigm, which the host views as both sides colluding against the masses. Events are often presented as "bifurcated PSYOPs," where both sides agree the event happened but blame the other side for the cause. Examples include helicopter crashes (blaming DEI vs. funding cuts) and mass shootings (blaming gun culture vs. antidepressants).The session also discusses recent events framed as potential psyops or theater. The Austin Metcalfe stabbing and the Shiloh Hendricks incident are presented as being put in the same conversation, described as a "proxy race war" engineered psychological operation, potentially timed for the summer. The GoFundMe accounts associated with these incidents are seen as part of building a "race war narrative".Predictive programming and synchronicity between media/entertainment and real-world events are explored. Examples include parallels between Donald Trump and Hulk Hogan (blading technique), Nick Fuentes and David Duke, Elon Musk and a character in "the madness", Laura Loomer and a character named Laura Jennings, and the timing and imagery of the Trump assassination attempt aligning with scenes in Tim Burton's Beetlejuice. The Ave Maria performance at a Trump rally 84 days after the alleged shooting is highlighted as a parallel to the song sung by the Riddler in The Batman. The fact that both alleged Trump shooters appeared in BlackRock commercials is noted, which is seen by others as evidence of a "deep state" plot but by the host as evidence of individuals being within the "PSYOP entertainment complex" or "the club".Religious and symbolic themes are discussed, such as Pope Francis and Klaus Schwab stepping down on the same day at age 88, a number associated with twins and duality. The host questions if Pope Francis is truly dead or if the death was staged. Trump sharing an AI video portraying himself as Pope is mentioned, along with the QAnon belief that Trump is the new Pope. The Aramaic word "Abracadabra," meaning "I create as I speak," is discussed in the context of spellcraft, media, and shaping worldviews.Critiques are leveled against certain conspiracy theories, including the idea that reality is a simulation. The host argues that simulation theory is a "psyop" and "cognitive sabotage" designed to undermine the credibility of those who see through media manipulation. The host distinguishes their position, stating that reality exists and is objective, predictable, testable, and reliable, while media is not. Believing reality is fake because media is fake is seen as confusing the map with the territory.The host also critiques "truthers" who dismiss fake events entirely without analysis, viewing this as a form of "gaslighting" or "damage control" because fake events are precisely

The Lords Prayer in Aramaic by Teresa Bowen

TODAY'S TREASUREBut Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her. Luke 23:11-18Send us a comment!Support the show

MUSINGS

Pastor Vera McEwen is incredibly excited to give an open welcome to all at Love God Ministries! An online community where all truly are welcome, Pastor Vera embodies the Love of Christ through witness and discipleship. She founded Love God Ministries because conversations with people revealed a need for a community of believers where it does not matter how you look but recognize that you are a child of God.Pastor Vera has been teaching and preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Word of God for over 30 years. Her primary emphasis is spreading God's Love by providing pastoral care, preaching God's Loving Word, teaching God's Light-Filled Word, and implementing God's Living relational group architecture via in home communities.She is currently reviewing the prospects of a doctorate in religious studies with an emphasis on Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic as encouraged by her professors at seminary. In addition to her vocation as Pastor she ministers as a certified professional and personal coach.With God's help, she implements 1 Thessalonians 5.11, motivating people to be and do their very best by building one another up. Pastor Vera is a joyous, ever singing sister in Christ who after years of being pursued by God, stopped running and answered the call, halleluiah, הַלְלוּיָהhttps://www.lovegod-ministries.org/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

In the Aramaic idiom, weakness (ܟܘܪܗܢܐ, kūrḥānā) is not simply about physical or emotional frailty, but often symbolizes the place where human capacity ends and divine intervention begins. The cross—zqīpā ܙܩܝܦܐ—would be seen as the ultimate shameful death, yet Paul redefines it as the seat of ܚܝܠܐ ܕܐܠܗܐ (ḥaylā d'Alāhā), “God's power.” In the Semitic worldview, paradox is often embraced—a suffering servant can be victorious, a crucified one can be king. Paul, thinking in Aramaic, is expressing a mystical truth: God reverses expectations. What the world mocks as weakness, God exalts as strength. The phrase “the word of the cross” (ܡܠܬܐ ܕܙܩܝܦܐ, meltā d'zeqīpā) is folly (ܫܛܝܘܬܐ, shaṭyūtā) to Greeks, but salvation (ܦܘܪܩܢܐ, pūrqānā) to those who believe. Paul's logic echoes Hebrew prophetic tradition, where God lifts the lowly (cf. Isaiah 53). Divine power manifests not in domination, but in kenosis—emptying, humility, and suffering. Key Insight: Paul is not introducing a new theology but is drawing from Aramaic-Jewish roots: the God of Israel reveals His might not through empire, but through the broken body of the Messiah. In Aramaic thinking, this is not contradiction—it is divine mystery. For more in depth studies check our online courses: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

In this episode, from a chapel service held on Tuesday 25 March 2025, Paul Williamson, Lecturer in Old Testament, Hebrew and Aramaic at Moore Theological College, speaks on Malachi 3:6-12 and the promise of God's blessing on his people.He reminds us that we are no longer under the old covenant of Moses, but under the new covenant of grace, and therefore, we are free to excel in the grace of giving.Listen to the rest of Paul's series on the Book of Malachi.For more audio resources, visit the Moore College website. There, you can also make a donation to support the work of the College.Contact us and find us on socials.Find out more about Moore College's Open Events.Please note: The episode transcript provided is AI-generated and has not been checked for accuracy. If quoting, please check against the audio.

In today's episode, I'm stepping a bit outside the focus of this season, which has largely centered on the physical body, to address something I feel very strongly about: the misconception that energy is inherently “New Age,” satanic, or demonic.A big part of the problem is how people are reacting to anything involving universal architecture or spiritual concepts with the same fervor that echoes medieval religious extremism. There's a rising wave of people labeling ancient, natural practices—like astrology, crystals, or tarot—as uniformly demonic, satanic, or New Age, often without understanding the vast differences between those terms. What's happening now is part of a larger shift as we move from the Age of Pisces, defined by religious control and deception, into the Age of Aquarius, which is about awakening, truth, and spiritual sovereignty. In this transitional time, we must embrace paradox and complexity—two things can be true at once. At the heart of all this is our misunderstanding of Jesus's actual teachings and the spiritual architecture he spoke of. Jesus spoke Aramaic, a vibrational and deeply nuanced language, which communicates more than just information—it conveys energy. When he said, “The kingdom of heaven is within you,” he was referring not to a future place, but a present vibrational reality.This episode is not about abandoning faith; it's about reclaiming it in its fullest, most embodied form. This is the good news—that the Kingdom of Heaven is within reach, within you, and it's waiting for you to remember who you are. Tune in now to hear more about the correlation between energy and the Trinity!In this episode:[00:37] Welcome back to The Fully Nourished Podcast![01:12] We are revisiting concepts of energy today, so buckle up![02:32] The arbitrary term of “New Age.” [05:29] Wisdom almost always has two sides.[07:08] Understanding the architecture of our universe.[11:09] What did Jesus really mean by the Kingdom of Heaven? [13:47] What are the basics of the architecture of the universe? [25:02] What if the Trinity is more than a doctrine?[26:21] The correlation between the Trinity and energy.[28:54] How can we become attuned to the Kingdom of Heaven? [33:10] How can we help other women see a path to the Kingdom of Heaven?[36:38] Thanks for joining me on The Fully Nourished Podcast. See you next week!Links and Resources:Aramaic Words Mentioned to Look Deeper Into:Abwoon- Birther of the CosmosAbba- Father/SourceRucha- SpiritRuach Hakodesh- Holy SpiritMiltha- Word/VibrationBook Mentioned:Prayers of the Cosmos by Neil Douglas-Klotz - https://amzn.to/3GvUJONGet more info on Philosophia Society Here: https://www.jessicaashwellness.com/philosophia-societySubmit a Question for our Next Q&A: https://airtable.com/appoicByQy3UFoSXs/shrXwD7wQFJQr68NnSign Up for Sunday Tea Here: https://jessica-ash-wellness.ck.page/04f86a550fConnect with Jessica:Have Sunday tea with me! Sign-up for my Sunday newsletter where I share what's on my brain from the nutritional to spiritual: https://www.jessicaashwellness.com/email-subscribe. Join the Fully Nourished community! Follow me @jessicaashwellness on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicaashwellness/

What the Rabbis Know That I Never Learned in Church is an eye-opening examination of what Chris-tians can learn about God from the ones who call Him Adonai. Author Chaim Bentorah has spentforty years talking with, learning from, and studying with rabbis in order that Christians can experi-ence the Bible through a new lens. One of the key lessons he learned along the way? There are alwaysnew insights awaiting us in Scripture:“Rabbis have taught me that even though the Word of God is inspired, it has many layers of understanding.It is a miracle that humanity has a book that speaks to us all.”By unearthing historical and cultural contexts, introducing age-old concepts not often seen in mod-ern Christian sermons, and digging into the original Greek and Hebrew languages and their sub-tleties, readers will learn more about the God of the Bible and the language in it by the people whospend their lives studying it.Bentorah's book will inspire readers to break the invisible boundaries we set for ourselves and pas-sionately seek to uncover more and more of God's boundless wisdom. Chaim Bentorah Chaim Bentorah has a B.A. in Jewish Studies from the Moody Bible Institute, an M.A. in Old Testament and Hebrew from the Denver Seminary and a PhD in Biblical Archaeology. He taught Classical Hebrew and Old Testament for thirteen years at World Harvest Bible College and Modern Hebrew at the Christian Center High School. Chaim Bentorah is presently teaching Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek to lay Christian leaders and pastors in the Metro Chicago area as well as holding Saturday meetups at a local cafe in Oak Park, Illinois. He writes daily word studies on his blog at www.chaimbentorah.com. He speaks to church and para church groups about the nature and means of studying the Old Testament in the Original Hebrew. He is convinced that any Christian no matter their age, educational background or abilities can study the Word of God in the original languages using the resources that are available today online and through electronic media. He conducts classes in how to use these resources to their full advantage.WebsiteFacebook

John 20:1-18 Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.    Still Here.  Still His. You're not DEFINED by what was — you're being REFINED by the I Am. STAY while it's DARK.     2 So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!” 3 So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. 4 Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.  5 He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb.  He saw the strips of linen lying there, 7 as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus' head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.  8 Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. 9 (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.) 10 Then the disciples went back to where they were staying. 11 Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying.    STAY through the SILENCE STAY when others walk AWAY   As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. 13 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don't know where they have put him.” 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. 15 He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).   Don't just LOOK for Jesus.  LISTEN for Jesus.   17 Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'” 18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.   Be a FOLLOWER and a FORERUNNER   Jesus COMFORTS and COMMISSIONS.    Still here because He is! Still His because He said!

Shlama Friends!    I'm so excited to announce that my new book Aramaic 10-Day Journey in Israel  is now available on Amazon! If this book touched your heart  or opened your eyes to the treasures of Aramaic faith and culture, would you bless me by leaving a 5-star review?    Here's how you can help me step-by-step (and it will only take a minute  Step 1: Click this link:    Leave a Review Here    Step 2: Sign in to your Amazon account  if you're not already logged in.    Step 3:  Choose the 5 Stars rating. Write a few words — maybe what you enjoyed most about the journey! (Example: "This book brought the Aramaic world to life! A must-read for Bible lovers!")    Step 4: Click Submit  — and you're done!    Your review makes a HUGE difference! It helps more readers discover the beauty of our ancient faith  and supports my future work .   Here's the direct Amazon link to the book if you want to share it too:  Aramaic 10-Day Journey in Israel   Thank you so much for walking this journey with me! Together, we are restoring the voice of the East.    www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com/shop   With gratitude and blessings, Andre Moubarak  

John 19 told of Jesus' crucifixion. It followed brutal treatment at the hands of Pilate's soldiers including thrusting a crown of thorns upon his head and putting a purple robe on him in mockery. How apt that in his dying he would remove the curse brought by Adam upon the earth; and would be like the ram caught by his horns in Genesis 22. When Pilate heard their claim that Jesus was the Son of God his fear intensified and he sought the Lord's release. Jesus made it crystal clear to Pilate that Pilate was without power against Jesus and the great sin lay with the Jewish rulers. They clamoured even more that Pilate should cooperate with their designs. If not Caesar would hear of it. Pilate caved in under pressure and allowed Jesus to be led away to be crucified. “We have no king but Caesar”, they cried; and forty years later their king came and destroyed Jerusalem because of their blood guiltiness. The crucifixion occurred in the place of the skull – Golgotha (the location where David buried Goliath's skull, as told in 1 Samuel 17). He was crucified between two thieves- no doubt these were Barabbas' men. In the three languages operating in Judea at the Aramaic, Greek and Latin was inscribed on his cross, “Jesus of Nazareth, king of the Jews”. The Jews protested Pilate's writing; but he, no doubt, gloried in this small victory over them. The soldiers divided his clothes between them and they cast lots for his vesture in fulfilment of Psalm 22:18. The beloved women in his life eventually came near to see his death; and at this time he committed his mother into the care of his beloved Apostle John. He died with his final words being a citation of Psalm 31:5 the quotation being completed when he emerged from the tomb after three days. His side was pierced by a Roman spear and out came blood and water indicating he had died of a broken heart. Unlike the thieves not a bone of him was broken – he was the Passover Lamb of Exodus 12 and the subject of the prophecy in Psalm 34:20-22. And the Scripture in Revelation 1:7 will be true at his coming kingdom. Jesus' body was secured from Pilate by Joseph of Arimathea. Jesus' body was placed by Joseph and Nicodemas in a new and unused garden tomb owned by the rich man Joseph.

John 20: 1-18 - The Empty Tomb Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!” So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus' head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.) Then the disciples went back to where they were staying. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don't know where they have put him.” At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'” Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.

Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb. Both of them were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there, and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus' head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples went back to their homes.But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her.(English Standard Version)

John 20:1-20 The Empty Tomb1 Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. 2 So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!” 3 So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.4 Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.5 He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.6 Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there,7 as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus' head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.8 Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.9 (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)10 Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene11 Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. 13 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don't know where they have put him.” 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. 15 He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). 17 Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'” 18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.Jesus Appears to His Disciples19 On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. Acts 17:30-31 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”                  Fix Your Eyes Upon Jesus - The Resurrection of Christ                 1. The Resurrection Is God's Vindication of Jesus                 2. The Resurrection Declares That Jesus Is Lord                 3. The Resurrection Is God's Proof of Judgment                 4. The Resurrection Calls for Repentance                  5. The Resurrection Gives Hope for the Future                Our Response  

1. Mary was stuck in heartbreak John 20:11 Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb (NIV) John 20:13–17 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. 15 He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). 17 Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ (NIV) Psalm 34:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (NIV) 2. Peter was stuck in failure 3. Thomas was stuck in doubt John 20:27–28 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” 28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” (NIV)

Join host Carry Kim as she welcomes Neil Douglas-Klotz, a distinguished writer, researcher, and musician, to explore the untamed landscape of spirituality and its ancient roots from 2024. In this episode, Neil shares insights into how Western society has evolved through the cultural and spiritual extraction from the East, particularly focusing on the indigenous spirituality of the Middle East. Discover the profound impact of mistranslations in religious texts and the importance of reclaiming our spiritual heritage. Neil delves into the rich traditions of Southwest Asia, offering a fresh perspective on the teachings of Jesus, the importance of reconnecting with nature, and the wisdom of ancient nomadic cultures. This episode promises to challenge conventional beliefs and inspire a deeper understanding of spirituality in our modern world. For an extended interview and other benefits, become an EcoJustice Radio patron at https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio LINKS Neil Douglas-Klotz, Ph.D. [https://abwoon.org] is a renowned writer, researcher, teacher, and musician in the fields of Middle Eastern spirituality and the translation and interpretation of the ancient Semitic languages of Hebrew, Aramaic, and Arabic. Living in Scotland, he was for many years the co-chair of the Mysticism Group of the American Academy of Religion. A frequent speaker and workshop leader, he is the author of several books on the Aramaic spirituality of Jesus including Prayers of the Cosmos and Revelations of the Aramaic Jesus, as well as books on Native Middle Eastern spirituality and Sufism. Carry Kim, Co-Host of EcoJustice Radio. An advocate for ecosystem restoration, Indigenous lifeways, and a new humanity born of connection and compassion, she is a long-time volunteer for SoCal350, member of Ecosystem Restoration Camps, and a co-founder of the Soil Sponge Collective, a grassroots community organization dedicated to big and small scale regeneration of Mother Earth. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer and Intro: Jack Eidt Hosted by Carry Kim Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 240 Photo credit: Neil Douglas-Klotz

Jenn Schmidt from Intimate Covenant joins us to overcoming sexual abuse and building a healthy, intimate sex life with your husband. NOTE: J totally got the episode number wrong! Not the first time she's been wrong. ~wink~ Sponsor Visit Better Help to get matched with a therapist who shares your values and can address your issues. Use code 4CW to get 10% off your first month. From the Bible Praise the Lord, my soul,     and forget not all his benefits— who forgives all your sins     and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit     and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things     so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.The Lord works righteousness     and justice for all the oppressed. Psalm 103:2-6 Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?”“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.”Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. John 5:2-9a For your Maker is your husband— the Lord Almighty is his name— the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; he is called the God of all the earth. Isaiah 54:5 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 Resources Intimate Covenant Podcast Intimate Covenant Retreat Trapped by Trauma | The Forgiven Wife Mending the Remnants of Brokenness | The Forgiven Wife For My Sister Sexual Assault Survivors | The Forgiven Wife Your Wife Has Been Sexually Harassed - Hot, Holy & Humorous Episode 64: Healing from Sexual Abuse, with Mary DeMuth - Sex Chat for Christian Wives My Larry Nassar Testimony Went Viral. But There's More to the Gospel Than Forgiveness. - Christianity Today Triggers: What They Are, How They Form, and What to Do Box Breathing for Stress - CHI Health About EMDR Therapy - EMDR International Association The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. Is Your Wife a Survivor? - Knowing Her Sexually Thanks for joining us at the virtual kitchen table for another great chat! If you could, we'd appreciate you leaving a rating and/or review so that others can find the show. Please be sure to check out our website and webinars at forchristianwives.com. And visit our individual ministry pages for more resources as well: Strong Wives - Bonny Burns Honeycomb & Spice - Chris Taylor Hot, Holy & Humorous - J. Parker

Syriac Lexis and Lexica: Compiling Ancient and Modern Vocabularies (Gorgias Press, 2024) publishes the papers presented at the round table on Syriac lexicology and lexicography held at the 13th Symposium Syriacum (Paris, 2022). An international group of scholars approaches this field from several new angles and shows how much remains to be done, from the creation of new lexical databases to the update of previously existing ones and the study of new lexica that have been recently discovered. The multifocal approach adopted by the contributions to this volume testifies to the richness of this field, which offers several avenues for further inquiry. The volume is designed for scholars in Syriac, as well as for those interested in the contacts between Syriac and its neighboring languages from the past and the present, such as Greek, Arabic, Iranian languages and Neo-Aramaic varieties. New Books in Late Antiquity is presented by Ancient Jew Review. Mara Nicosia is a British Academy Newton International Fellow at Durham University (UK). Trained as a Semitic philologist, she earned her PhD from the University of Naples "L'Orientale" (2020). Her primary research focus is the development of rhetoric as an academic subject in Syriac schools, but she also works on the contacts between Greek and various types of Aramaic and on technical vocabularies in comparison. Michael Motia teaches in Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Syriac Lexis and Lexica: Compiling Ancient and Modern Vocabularies (Gorgias Press, 2024) publishes the papers presented at the round table on Syriac lexicology and lexicography held at the 13th Symposium Syriacum (Paris, 2022). An international group of scholars approaches this field from several new angles and shows how much remains to be done, from the creation of new lexical databases to the update of previously existing ones and the study of new lexica that have been recently discovered. The multifocal approach adopted by the contributions to this volume testifies to the richness of this field, which offers several avenues for further inquiry. The volume is designed for scholars in Syriac, as well as for those interested in the contacts between Syriac and its neighboring languages from the past and the present, such as Greek, Arabic, Iranian languages and Neo-Aramaic varieties. New Books in Late Antiquity is presented by Ancient Jew Review. Mara Nicosia is a British Academy Newton International Fellow at Durham University (UK). Trained as a Semitic philologist, she earned her PhD from the University of Naples "L'Orientale" (2020). Her primary research focus is the development of rhetoric as an academic subject in Syriac schools, but she also works on the contacts between Greek and various types of Aramaic and on technical vocabularies in comparison. Michael Motia teaches in Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Syriac Lexis and Lexica: Compiling Ancient and Modern Vocabularies (Gorgias Press, 2024) publishes the papers presented at the round table on Syriac lexicology and lexicography held at the 13th Symposium Syriacum (Paris, 2022). An international group of scholars approaches this field from several new angles and shows how much remains to be done, from the creation of new lexical databases to the update of previously existing ones and the study of new lexica that have been recently discovered. The multifocal approach adopted by the contributions to this volume testifies to the richness of this field, which offers several avenues for further inquiry. The volume is designed for scholars in Syriac, as well as for those interested in the contacts between Syriac and its neighboring languages from the past and the present, such as Greek, Arabic, Iranian languages and Neo-Aramaic varieties. New Books in Late Antiquity is presented by Ancient Jew Review. Mara Nicosia is a British Academy Newton International Fellow at Durham University (UK). Trained as a Semitic philologist, she earned her PhD from the University of Naples "L'Orientale" (2020). Her primary research focus is the development of rhetoric as an academic subject in Syriac schools, but she also works on the contacts between Greek and various types of Aramaic and on technical vocabularies in comparison. Michael Motia teaches in Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/language

Pastor Vera McEwen is incredibly excited to give an open welcome to all at Love God Ministries! An online community where all truly are welcome, Pastor Vera embodies the Love of Christ through witness and discipleship. She founded Love God Ministries because conversations with people revealed a need for a community of believers where it does not matter how you look but recognize that you are a child of God.Pastor Vera has been teaching and preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Word of God for over 30 years. Her primary emphasis is spreading God's Love by providing pastoral care, preaching God's Loving Word, teaching God's Light-Filled Word, and implementing God's Living relational group architecture via in home communities.She is currently reviewing the prospects of a doctorate in religious studies with an emphasis on Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic as encouraged by her professors at seminary. In addition to her vocation as Pastor she ministers as a certified professional and personal coach.With God's help, she implements 1 Thessalonians 5.11, motivating people to be and do their very best by building one another up. Pastor Vera is a joyous, ever singing sister in Christ who after years of being pursued by God, stopped running and answered the call, halleluiah, הַלְלוּיָהhttps://www.lovegod-ministries.org/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

Paul Wallis discusses the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing the discontinuity between Jesus' message and the laws of Yahweh. He highlights the significance of Aramaic phrases in Jesus' teachings and the absence of Yahweh's name in the gospels. Wallis argues that Jesus intended to free people from Yahweh's laws and introduces the concept of the "Eden Enigma," exploring ancient carvings in Turkey that suggest extraterrestrial intervention in human history. He also touches on the historical context of early Christianity, the role of Paul, and the possibility of Jesus' survival and travels, including to India and Japan. Paul Wallis discusses the importance of order, harmony, and love in the universe, emphasizing that love is a plural experience essential for community well-being, akin to sunlight for plants. He believes the ultimate purpose of life is to learn and practice love, as exemplified by his mother's eulogy. Wallis can be found on YouTube, his websites, and Amazon, where his book "The Eden Enigma" is available. He advises maintaining a positive emotional state amidst global uncertainties, suggesting intentionality in one's mindset each morning. Wallis encourages viewers to engage with his work and to be mindful of their emotional well-being.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/next-level-soul-podcast-with-alex-ferrari--4858435/support.

Today’s Bible Verse: ““Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha).” - John 19:17

Jesus often used parables in His teachings because many of His followers lacked knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures. Today, Pastor Mark explains that the general population during Biblical times spoke Aramaic, while the Scriptures were written in Hebrew. Even Jesus' disciples could not understand them. The disciples, lacking knowledge of the Bible, resembled new believers. Although they had been educated in religious practices, their teachers were priests who did not have a deep understanding of God. Like many people today, they followed religious traditions but lacked a relationship with God.

(4:01) Bible Study: Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41c-62 Don’t be carried away by wrath. Father explains John 8:12-20 Father explains the context of this reading in light of the woman caught in adultery. (21:10) Break 1 (24:31) Letters: Father talks about the life of the Church growing in Europe; He also answers a question on the topic of the sacrifice needed after the Messiah comes. Father answers these and other questions today. Send him a letter at simon@relevantradio.com (32:50) Break 2 (34:00) Word of the Day: Writing a List (34:59) Phones: Rebecca - friend says that when people struggle really hard that means they are 'anointed'. what does this mean? Bill - Aramaic language. how did parts of the Bible come to be written in Aramaic? can you give me some history of this. Ray - I make sign of cross. why don’t others do this during mass. friend wants to be baptized but has ADHD. Can stay in class and keep attention. how can I instruct him on faith? Colette - what does it mean to love God? Helen - original sin. not sure I still understand this. can you explain?

Pastor Vera McEwen is incredibly excited to give an open welcome to all at Love God Ministries! An online community where all truly are welcome, Pastor Vera embodies the Love of Christ through witness and discipleship. She founded Love God Ministries because conversations with people revealed a need for a community of believers where it does not matter how you look but recognize that you are a child of God.Pastor Vera has been teaching and preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Word of God for over 30 years. Her primary emphasis is spreading God's Love by providing pastoral care, preaching God's Loving Word, teaching God's Light-Filled Word, and implementing God's Living relational group architecture via in home communities.She is currently reviewing the prospects of a doctorate in religious studies with an emphasis on Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic as encouraged by her professors at seminary. In addition to her vocation as Pastor she ministers as a certified professional and personal coach.With God's help, she implements 1 Thessalonians 5.11, motivating people to be and do their very best by building one another up. Pastor Vera is a joyous, ever singing sister in Christ who after years of being pursued by God, stopped running and answered the call, halleluiah, הַלְלוּיָהhttps://www.lovegod-ministries.org/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

John 5:1-18,After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.2 Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Aramaic called Bethesda, which has five roofed colonnades. 3 In these lay a multitude of invalids—blind, lame, and paralyzed. 5 One man was there who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” 7 The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.” 8 Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” 9 And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked.Now that day was the Sabbath. 10 So the Jews said to the man who had been healed, “It is the Sabbath, and it is not lawful for you to take up your bed.” 11 But he answered them, “The man who healed me, that man said to me, ‘Take up your bed, and walk.'” 12 They asked him, “Who is the man who said to you, ‘Take up your bed and walk'?” 13 Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in the place. 14 Afterward Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you.” 15 The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him. 16 And this was why the Jews were persecuting Jesus, because he was doing these things on the Sabbath. 17 But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.”18 This was why the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God. One of the realities of our humanity is that we can be wrong sometimes.Being wrong, a lot of times, isn't a terrible thing, we know we don't always get it right — but there are some big things in life that we can't afford to get wrong because the stakes are too high. And Jesus targets one of those things in our passage today, John Chapter 5. It's all about the way that God works in this world. That's the focus in this passage — it's the activity of God, the power of God, the working of God in this world. We must get that right. And we find here two things it is not, and one thing it is. And that's the outline of this sermon. We're going to consider two misconceptions about God's work and then thirdly, we're gonna see how Jesus answers both.Father, the unfolding of your word gives light. This morning, we ask, that by the power of your Spirit, shine on our hearts, and speak to us, in Jesus's name, amen. 1. God's work is not impersonal to us. John starts in verse 1 with the setting of this story: Jesus is back in Jerusalem, and he's in a particular part of the city John describes for us. By the Sheep Gate (in the northeast part of the city) there was a pool called Bethesda.This pool would have been a pretty big rectangle — think the size of a football field — and then surrounding the pool is what verse 2 calls “five roofed colonnades.” This is a shelter held up by columns. There would have been a shelter surrounding the four sides of the pool, and then a shelter through the middle section, and verse 3 says that under this shelter, or in these colonnades, lay a “multitude of invalids—blind, lame, and paralyzed.” Keyword there is “multitude” — down in verse 13 John says that there was a crowd in the place, so we should imagine here:A long pool, surrounded by a swarm of people. And many of the people in this area would have been disabled folks, many of them were likely homeless and they found shelter here.So imagine this to look like a homeless encampment. There's lots of people who hang around here, and there's shopping carts scattered around and backpacks and pallets and stuff laid out.And one person in this multitude, verse 5 says, was a man who had been an invalid for 38 years. We don't know the exact details of his condition, but most likely he was paralyzed in some way.Everybody find verse 6 for a minute. There's an important detail to the story in verse 6 I want you to see. John 5, verse 6:“When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, ‘Do you want to be healed?'”Again, imagine what's going on here: It's a swarm of people. People everywhere. But Jesus saw this one man in the crowd and he knew he'd been there a long time — now how'd Jesus know that? We're not sure. Maybe he knew because he knows things, or maybe he asked around, either way, Jesus was interested in this man. He knew he'd been there a while, and he wanted to know what the man was looking for. So Jesus asked him, verse 6, “Do you want to be healed?”And this is when the action starts. Kind of like in Chapter 4 with the Samaritan woman, Jesus asks the questions and that's when things start to unravel … The Unraveling BeginsThe man responded to Jesus with an implied “Yes” but he jumped straight to the problem. Look at verse 7. The man said:“Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.”What in the world is he talking about? Again, there's some unraveling here …This is the situation that was going on: during this time in Jerusalem there was a superstition that God would occasionally send an angel to infuse these pools with healing power — the waters would apparently be stirred up — and whoever would get in the water first, would be healed. (So it was like part healing, part contest.)The reason the man had been there by the pool for a long time was because he was waiting for his moment — and apparently a lot of other people were doing the same. Remember it's a multitude of people. They're all looking for their chance. But each time the ‘magic' came, this man was too disabled to get himself in the water first. So he was constantly just missing out. So I think the man's reply to Jesus in verse 7 is an indirect request. Try to track with this: in verse 7 the man is telling Jesus his problem to see if Jesus would solve this problem by helping him get to the pool. Because this man thinks that's where the power of God is. He thinks God's work is in the pool, and he thinks his problem is that he doesn't have anyone to help him get access to where God works — and he's telling this to Jesus! Which is super ironic, isn't it? We're supposed to read this and be like Oh my goodness! We should think: This guy has it all wrong.He is complaining to Jesus about not having access to where he thinks God works.All he needs is for Jesus to say the word, like Jesus did in Chapter 4. He just spoke the word and 25 miles away the fever broke!The Vaguely SpiritualWhat this man gets wrong is that he thinks the work of God in the world is impersonal to us.According to how this man viewed the world: he believed that God was the one behind miraculous things — God was the one who made the water magic — but that's the thing: it was the water that became magic at random, arbitrary times, which means the power of God is disconnected from the person of God. This thinking disconnects the work of God from the will of God.And this kind of thinking, this misconception, still exists today in those who we could call the vaguely spiritual. That's the title I'm putting on this thinking. These are people who don't deny the existence of a higher power — they're not atheists — but they're also not committed to the God of the Bible. And you find this everywhere. I remember one Sunday I was talking with someone after the service and they were going on and on about Sedona, Arizona and this rock formation that has divine healing power. It's making the work of God impersonal to us. That's what the vaguely spiritual do. A lot of these people might even consider themselves to be Christians, but they really only appreciate the ‘inspirational' side of things. They only want the self-help stuff — which is an attempt to have blessing without relationship.And this is where we start to see that the belief that God's work is impersonal is not just something people get wrong, it's also a preference. People are very interested in the good God can do for them, but they're not interested in daily trusting him. A lot of people love the idea of ‘getting from God what we want without having to deal with God on his terms.' See, that prefers to keep things non-committal and vague.The vaguely spiritual are ‘spiritual' enough not to be atheist, but ‘vague' enough not to be subject to God's moral demands. But look: that's wrong … Wrong.That's not how God works. God's work is not impersonal to us. Here's the second thing we see about God's work in the world.2. God's work is not dictated by us. Jesus says the word, heals this man, and then John tells us, verse 9,“Now that day was the Sabbath.” Verse 9 is like a hard right turn that takes us into what seems like a whole different topic. We go from pool superstition to Sabbath controversy like this. Verse 10 says right away that the Jewish leaders said to the man who had been healed:“It is the Sabbath, and it is not lawful for you to take up your bed.” And it's interesting here how the man deflects the blame. He said he took up his bed because the man who healed him told him to. Baked into that statement is a recognition of authority. It's like the man is saying, I've been paralyzed for 38 years, and a man just showed up from this crowd and told me to get up, and I did. So yeah, I'm just gonna do whatever he says.Look how they respond, verse 12. Again, they just want to know who healed him and where he went — not so they can meet Jesus and be in awe of him, but because they want to correct him.And again, the irony here is thick. The only person who does not need to be corrected in this story is Jesus. That's how misguided these people are!And in case you were wondering, there's no law in the Old Testament that says you can't take up your bed on the Sabbath. The statement in verse 10 that it's not lawful is according to the Mishnah — that's Jewish oral tradition. A bunch of rabbis had analyzed the Sabbath command and came up with 39 categories of prohibited work, one of which included that on the Sabbath you can't carry anything from one place to another. That was their rule. So the Jewish leaders here are not trying to defend God's word, but this is their own word.Again, there's irony: they think they're defending God's law, but they're actually defending their misapplication of God's law in opposition to God himself!I wanna make sure you see what's going on here: These Jewish leaders meet this guy who has been paralyzed for 38 years and now he's not! He's up! He's walking! They don't give him a high-five! They're not amazed by the fact that this man has been healed! But instead they interrogate him because according to them the timing of his healing didn't make sense!For them, this healing, which was God's work, happened when it wasn't supposed to, and that became their concern. The Legalistic HenchmenWhat these Jewish leaders get wrong is that they think the work of God in the world is dictated by us. According to how these people viewed the world, they believed that God did miraculous things, but only so long as it fits with their expectations and their standards. The issue here is that they've disconnected the work of God from the word of God by making it subject to their own word. They've separated the power of God from the freedom of God by putting themselves in the place of God. And this kind of thinking, this misconception, still exists today in those who we could call the legalistic henchmen. That's the title I'm putting on this one. These are people who believe that God is at work in the world, but they've drawn very clear lines of where that work can happen and where it can't, and anything outside their lines is rejected. If it doesn't fit in their construct and conform to their rules then it's dismissed. And this is where we can see that this belief also — the belief that God's work is dictated by us — is not just something people get wrong, it too is a preference. Because it means that we as humans are the ones in control. The ‘legalistic henchmen', see, never get corrected, but they're always the ones doing the correcting, because “they're always right and they're the only ones who really do God's work.”Now there are very few people who would admit that they think this way, but it's out there. It's the inability to appreciate God's work in things you had nothing to do with. The legalistic henchmen are so blinded by their own man-made ideals that they miss the work of God when it's right in front of them. That's what's going on here. And it's wrong … Wrong.That's not how God works. God's work is not dictated by us. So let's just track what we've seen so far in the pool superstition and the Sabbath controversy. Two misconceptions:So far we know that God's work is neither impersonal to us nor dictated by us. We don't wanna be vaguely spiritual or legalistic henchmen — so how should we be?How should we understand God's work in the world?3. God's work in the world is what Jesus is doing, who is both personal and active. I want you to see how Jesus engages both of these misconceptions. First, let's go back to what Jesus said to the paralyzed man. This is for the vaguely spiritual. Jesus says to the man in verse 8,“Get up, take up your bed, and walk.”Verse 9: And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked.I want you to see here that there is a beautiful contrast between where this man was looking for healing and what he actually experienced.He is looking to somehow find his way into that pool because he thinks the work of God is impersonally connected to the water, meanwhile, the true work of God is in the person of Jesus Christ who finds his way to this man. In this crowd, Jesus saw him and learned about him and healed him.And look at verse 14. After the healing there was some commotion and Jesus withdrew from the crowd. But verse 14. Look at verse 14: “Afterward Jesus found him in the temple …”Not only did Jesus see him that once, and learn about him, but Jesus was looking for him again. How much more personal can this get?! Jesus found him again! Look, some of you in this room should know that the reason you're here today is because Jesus has been looking for you. Jesus has found you. Look what Jesus says in verse 9. He says, “See, you are well! [Yes, you're walking! I just hear the joy of Jesus in these words! … Then he says:] Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you.”Jesus here is calling this man to a new way of life. He's calling this man to true faith and repentance. What is worse than being paralyzed for 38 years is to be able to walk but still die in your sin. You know one thing about the Gospels and these stories is that they show us real-life people who encounter Jesus, which makes me think of other real-life people who have encountered Jesus. People at our church. This story makes me think of Jean Swenson, our dear sister. This man had been paralyzed for 38 years, and Jean has been there for 45 years (and she has an amazing testimony — if you've not heard it, Jean wrote something for our church I'm gonna share this week).Jesus has not healed Jean's body yet, but Jean has experienced the work of God in her life in the most important way. She has believed in the Lord Jesus Christ. She has been forgiven. And Jean has a perspective on life that we all need. She says, “My value lies in something that can never be taken away…and that's the fact that God loves me.” Do you hear that? “God loves me.” Jean knows: Jesus sees her, knows her, he found her.There's nothing impersonal about that. Jesus Is WorkingLastly, here, I want you to see what Jesus says to these Jewish leaders in verse 17. This is for the legalistic henchmen. Now John gives us a summary statement in verse 18 — the reason these Jewish leaders despised Jesus is not just because he was breaking their man-made rules about the Sabbath, but, end of verse 18, “he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.”Jesus was doing that in verse 17, when he said, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.”See, implied here is that God the Father is always working. God doesn't take breaks. He neither sleeps nor slumbers, Psalm 121. God is exempt from having to stop work on the Sabbath because we need him constantly to uphold the universe. We need God to always keep things in orbit and sustain life, and the Jewish worldview understood that. Jesus says, The Father is working until now — and they all would have been like, Yes, of course — but then Jesus says, and I am working. And they knew what he meant. Jesus was saying that his working, what he's doing, is what God is doing. What God is doing is what Jesus is doing. Jesus is not one of several different ways God works, but Jesus is the only way. God's work in the world is never apart from Jesus, but it's always through Jesus, centered on Jesus, lifting high Jesus. We will see more of this in the Gospel of John. Jesus will say in Chapter 14, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”That is the final answer to our question …God's work in the world is what Jesus Christ is doing, and he is both personal and active. Jesus finds us where we are, he calls us to himself, and he is doing this all the time. He's active every single day.Which means, as for God's work in the world, we should be neither vaguely spiritual nor legalistic henchmen, but we should be attentive to Jesus Christ. Focusing on Jesus Christ. Remembering Jesus Christ.And that's what brings us to the Table.The TableI'm convinced that the greatest need in the Christian life is to keep Jesus clear in our hearts. We need to remember his realness in all of life. And that's something we do on purpose together at this table each week. We remember that the definite work of God in the world was when Jesus died for us on the cross. Jesus was working then, and Jesus is working now by his Spirit every time the message of his cross is heard and shared and embraced. And that's what we're doing at the table. If you're not a Christian yet — if you've not put your faith in Jesus — this moment is an invitation for you. Trust in Jesus. That could look like a prayer of the heart that says:Jesus, I can't save myself and I'm done trying. You died on the cross to save me, and I trust you. Save me.And for those of us who have done that, who have trusted in Jesus, we receive this table with thankfulness, and we remember Jesus and his work in our lives, in our church, in this world. Rejoice in Jesus Christ.

As one reads the thoughts of Saint Isaac the Syrian the experience is almost like that of the disciples on the road to Emmaus: “Did our hearts not burn within us?” Isaac speaks to something so deep within the human heart that it ignites the very thing that he sets out to inflame: desire, wonder, awe at the love of God and the mystery of the Divine Life into which God invites us.  One of the great struggles that we have as Christians is that we approach the faith and the spiritual life in a common fashion.  In our reading of the Scriptures, we approach them in a reductive manner, dissecting the gospels; pulling out for ourselves bits of wisdom to help us get through life. Yet, Isaac understands that we cannot over-scrutinize the words that are written or spoken to us, but rather must immerse ourselves humbly in Divine Wisdom. Isaac tells us that those who are filled with grace are led by the light that is running between the lines. It is this humble and prayerful approach not only to the scriptures but to the faith as a whole that prevents the heart from being common and devoid of that holy power that “gives the heart a most sweet taste through perceptions that awe the soul.”  A soul that is filled with the spirit is going to run toward God, driven by an urgent longing for the fullness of life and love that He alone can satisfy. Not every soul is awakened to that sense of wonder yet it is the pearl of great price, the treasure hidden in the field, and the one thing necessary. May God fill our hearts with a holy desire. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:09:28 The Recovery Community Hub of PBC, Inc.: Hey everyone, in Christ, my name is Ian, I am only using my former workers Zoom platform 00:11:17 Myles Davidson: Pg. 116 “Just as the heaviness of weights…” 00:11:50 Vanessa: I'm in Ontario too. Blizzard is bad here. 00:12:18 Edward Kleinguetl: I lived in Toronto for a year! 00:12:46 Ben: Replying to "I lived in Toronto f..." I'm east of Ottawa. 00:14:16 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: When you desire to do something for the love of God, put death as the limit of your desire. In this way you will rise in actual deed to the level of martyrdom in struggling with every passion, suffering no harm from whatever you may meet within this limit, if you endure to the end and do not weaken.  ~ St Isaac the Syrian 00:20:34 Anthony: It appears Isaac uses "Liberty" of mind different than the Greek Fathers? 00:34:08 Ben: I remember reading "The Imitation of Christ" for the first time in my youth, and thinking, "Oh, boy, this totally demolishes everything we were ever taught about self-esteem!" 00:36:20 David: I am wondering if the Diatessaron which was the most common with Aramaic communities might have influenced idea of living the gospel instead of the legal way of the west? 00:38:06 David: St Emphrain wrote a discourse on that and I assume Issac was likely exposed where the separate gospels tend to compare and contrast and get far to analytical. 00:40:22 David: The other thing I find fascinating the Syrian fathers taught through poetry which moves emotions not just debates or arguments. 00:42:17 Anthony: Seeing the Word of God as the Divine Logos keeps us from the "fundamentalism" that makes categories of touchable and untouchable. 00:42:27 Jamie Hickman: Great podcast episode on the show Square Notes looking at Thomas Aquinas's poetry...too often he's only known by his Summas as though that's his only writing style 00:42:46 Jamie Hickman: hat tip to Fr. Innocent Smith, OP, for his contribution 00:43:11 Paisios: Next book/class should be Hymns on Paradise 00:44:14 Anthony: Reacted to Great podcast episod... with "❤️" 00:44:52 Paisios: yes 00:45:04 Zack Morgan: I feel like the over-scrupulous approach we are discussing works more towards an apologetic end than anything else.  We find it almost too easy to read the Gosepls and accept them in contrast to a world that wants to reject them, so we easily fall into the temptation to over-explain that which we have come to blieve by a gift of faith that is in contrast very simple. 00:50:04 Kate : Perhaps it is a lack of faith and trust in the grace of God and the workings of the Holy Spirit in the depths of the soul. 00:52:37 Jamie Hickman: In one of St Louis de Montfort's books on the Holy Rosary, he recounts that Our Lady apppeared to Saint Dominic and told him to preach a simple homily rather than the one he had prepared, which was super eloquent, because in his humility he would convert the souls in the church even though the academics wouldn't be impressed...apparently Our Lady told him to preach the same simple version repeatedly, which led many academics present to think less of him...I might have confused which Dominican, but I think it was Dominic and definitely it was a saint 00:52:40 Sr. Charista Maria: My experience in reading the desert Fathers has been that the purpose and heart of it all is an encouragement to strive to "become fire!" 00:56:53 lauren: Reacted to "My experience in rea…" with ❤️ 01:00:12 Elizabeth Richards: Reacted to "My experience in rea..." with ❤️ 01:06:37 David: "Virtue seen and lived inspires and virtue explained often makes others weary " was a saying of my grandfather. People were attracted to Christianity by seeing love among the followers not convincing arguments. My own path from being young and not sure of religion was seeing Christ along side me in my grandparents and parents living their faith in love and sacrifice. 01:11:20 Ben: I've thought of that... 01:12:18 Catherine Opie: ❤️

In this episode, we dive into John 20:11-16, where Mary Magdalene encounters the risen Jesus. Overwhelmed by grief and confusion, she initially fails to recognize Him. We reflect on our own struggles with loss and the longing for answers, and how Jesus gently calls us by name, transforming our sorrow into joy and despair into hope. Discover the profound truth that Jesus knows you personally and is always present, waiting for you to recognize Him. Join the Conversation:We want to hear from you! When have you felt like Mary, overwhelmed and searching for answers? Have you ever missed God's presence in your life? Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. Let’s support one another as we seek to recognize Jesus in our lives!

Join us for an enlightening episode as we welcome Jon D. Levenson, the esteemed Albert A. List Professor of Jewish Studies at Harvard University and author of several publications, including the books Resurrection and the Restoration of Israel: The Ultimate Victory of the God of Life, and The Love of God: Divine Gift, Human Gratitude, and Mutual Faithfulness in Judaism. Exploring both literary and theological dimensions, Professor Levenson unveils the rich tapestry of Judaism's history and its resonance across descendant religions. Bringing his expertise in Judaism, the Hebrew language, biblical interpretation, and rabbinic literature, he offers unparalleled insights into these subjects. Tune in to explore: The relationship between Aramaic and Hebrew A unique perspective on the difference between language and dialect Clarifications on Jewish perspectives regarding resurrection and the notion behind the immortality of the soul Press play now to hear the full conversation. For more on Levenson's work and publications, check out Jon D. Levenson | Harvard Divinity School (HDS). Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9 Upgrade Your Wallet Game with Ekster!  Get the sleek, smart wallet you deserve—and save while you're at it! Use coupon code FINDINGGENIUS at checkout or shop now with this exclusive link: ekster.com?sca_ref=4822922.DtoeXHFUmQ5  Smarter, slimmer, better. Don't miss out!