Podcasts about babylonians

Today's Scripture passages are 2 Chronicles 36:15-21 | Psalm 88 | Psalm 123 | Jeremiah 52:28-30 | Lamentations 1.Read by Christina Edmondson.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

From the acclaimed author of 1177 B.C., a spellbinding account of the archaeological find that opened a window onto the vibrant diplomatic world of the ancient Near East In 1887, an Egyptian woman made an astonishing discovery among the ruins of the heretic king Akhenaten's capital city, a site now known as Amarna. She found a cache of cuneiform tablets, nearly four hundred in all, that included correspondence between the pharaohs and the mightiest powers of the day, such as the Hittites, Babylonians, and Assyrians. Love, War, and Diplomacy: The Discovery of the Amarna Letters and the Bronze Age World They Revealed (Princeton University Press, 2025) tells the story of the Amarna Letters and the dramatic world of the Bronze Age they revealed. Blending scholarly expertise with painstaking detective work, Eric Cline describes the spectacular discovery, the fierce competition among dealers and museums to acquire the tablets, and the race by British and German scholars to translate them. Dating to the middle of the fourteenth century BCE and the time of Tutankhamun's immediate predecessors, Amenhotep III and his son Akhenaten, the Amarna Letters are the only royal archive from New Kingdom Egypt known to exist. In them, we learn of royal marriages, diplomatic negotiations, gift-giving, intrigue, and declarations of brotherly love between powerful rulers as well as demands made by the petty kings in Canaan who owed allegiance to Egypt's pharaohs. A monumental achievement, Love, War, and Diplomacy transports readers to the glorious age of the Amarna Letters and the colonial era that brought them to light and reveals how the politics, posturing, and international intrigues of the ancient Near East are not so unlike today's. Eric H. Cline is professor of classics and anthropology at George Washington University. Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

From the acclaimed author of 1177 B.C., a spellbinding account of the archaeological find that opened a window onto the vibrant diplomatic world of the ancient Near East In 1887, an Egyptian woman made an astonishing discovery among the ruins of the heretic king Akhenaten's capital city, a site now known as Amarna. She found a cache of cuneiform tablets, nearly four hundred in all, that included correspondence between the pharaohs and the mightiest powers of the day, such as the Hittites, Babylonians, and Assyrians. Love, War, and Diplomacy: The Discovery of the Amarna Letters and the Bronze Age World They Revealed (Princeton University Press, 2025) tells the story of the Amarna Letters and the dramatic world of the Bronze Age they revealed. Blending scholarly expertise with painstaking detective work, Eric Cline describes the spectacular discovery, the fierce competition among dealers and museums to acquire the tablets, and the race by British and German scholars to translate them. Dating to the middle of the fourteenth century BCE and the time of Tutankhamun's immediate predecessors, Amenhotep III and his son Akhenaten, the Amarna Letters are the only royal archive from New Kingdom Egypt known to exist. In them, we learn of royal marriages, diplomatic negotiations, gift-giving, intrigue, and declarations of brotherly love between powerful rulers as well as demands made by the petty kings in Canaan who owed allegiance to Egypt's pharaohs. A monumental achievement, Love, War, and Diplomacy transports readers to the glorious age of the Amarna Letters and the colonial era that brought them to light and reveals how the politics, posturing, and international intrigues of the ancient Near East are not so unlike today's. Eric H. Cline is professor of classics and anthropology at George Washington University. Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/military-history

From the acclaimed author of 1177 B.C., a spellbinding account of the archaeological find that opened a window onto the vibrant diplomatic world of the ancient Near East In 1887, an Egyptian woman made an astonishing discovery among the ruins of the heretic king Akhenaten's capital city, a site now known as Amarna. She found a cache of cuneiform tablets, nearly four hundred in all, that included correspondence between the pharaohs and the mightiest powers of the day, such as the Hittites, Babylonians, and Assyrians. Love, War, and Diplomacy: The Discovery of the Amarna Letters and the Bronze Age World They Revealed (Princeton University Press, 2025) tells the story of the Amarna Letters and the dramatic world of the Bronze Age they revealed. Blending scholarly expertise with painstaking detective work, Eric Cline describes the spectacular discovery, the fierce competition among dealers and museums to acquire the tablets, and the race by British and German scholars to translate them. Dating to the middle of the fourteenth century BCE and the time of Tutankhamun's immediate predecessors, Amenhotep III and his son Akhenaten, the Amarna Letters are the only royal archive from New Kingdom Egypt known to exist. In them, we learn of royal marriages, diplomatic negotiations, gift-giving, intrigue, and declarations of brotherly love between powerful rulers as well as demands made by the petty kings in Canaan who owed allegiance to Egypt's pharaohs. A monumental achievement, Love, War, and Diplomacy transports readers to the glorious age of the Amarna Letters and the colonial era that brought them to light and reveals how the politics, posturing, and international intrigues of the ancient Near East are not so unlike today's. Eric H. Cline is professor of classics and anthropology at George Washington University. Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

From the acclaimed author of 1177 B.C., a spellbinding account of the archaeological find that opened a window onto the vibrant diplomatic world of the ancient Near East In 1887, an Egyptian woman made an astonishing discovery among the ruins of the heretic king Akhenaten's capital city, a site now known as Amarna. She found a cache of cuneiform tablets, nearly four hundred in all, that included correspondence between the pharaohs and the mightiest powers of the day, such as the Hittites, Babylonians, and Assyrians. Love, War, and Diplomacy: The Discovery of the Amarna Letters and the Bronze Age World They Revealed (Princeton University Press, 2025) tells the story of the Amarna Letters and the dramatic world of the Bronze Age they revealed. Blending scholarly expertise with painstaking detective work, Eric Cline describes the spectacular discovery, the fierce competition among dealers and museums to acquire the tablets, and the race by British and German scholars to translate them. Dating to the middle of the fourteenth century BCE and the time of Tutankhamun's immediate predecessors, Amenhotep III and his son Akhenaten, the Amarna Letters are the only royal archive from New Kingdom Egypt known to exist. In them, we learn of royal marriages, diplomatic negotiations, gift-giving, intrigue, and declarations of brotherly love between powerful rulers as well as demands made by the petty kings in Canaan who owed allegiance to Egypt's pharaohs. A monumental achievement, Love, War, and Diplomacy transports readers to the glorious age of the Amarna Letters and the colonial era that brought them to light and reveals how the politics, posturing, and international intrigues of the ancient Near East are not so unlike today's. Eric H. Cline is professor of classics and anthropology at George Washington University. Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/archaeology

Fr. Mitch examines the lack of benefits the Egyptians, Assyrians and Babylonians gained from the subjugation and exile of the people of Israel, and to what this is testimony.

This weekend, Tyler led us in a Bible Study Weekend focusing on the book of Haggai and its timeless relevance for rebuilding our spiritual lives. Haggai, a post-exilic prophet, was tasked with motivating the Jewish people to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem after returning from Babylonian exile. The people had begun the work but became stagnant due to opposition and fear. Haggai's message addressed this spiritual stagnation, calling the people to: Restore the presence of God – Recognize that God's presence is central to life, not just religious ritual. Renew your hope in the future – Trust God's promises even when the work seems small or slow. Rededicate yourself to holiness – Align hearts with God's law, ensuring that actions are not corrupted by sin. God will reverse the curse – Obedience and faithfulness allow God to reverse the curse and restore His people. Tyler highlighted that Haggai's short, direct mission demonstrates a practical formula to reverse spiritual stagnation, applicable to modern struggles like sin, addiction, depression, or complacency. This timeless message finds its fulfillment in Jesus, who keeps God's promises, brings His presence into our lives, and frees us from the power of sin. Will you invite God to restore your heart, renew hope, and transform your life?

Theme: Restoration, Repentance, and Prophecy — God's Zeal for Zion and His Sovereign Plan Pastor Matthew continued the study in Zechariah chapters 8–9, emphasizing God's zealous love for Jerusalem, His plan to restore His people, and the prophetic revelation of Jesus' triumphal entry hundreds of years before it happened. The message blended historical restoration, end-time prophecy, and personal spiritual application about obedience, repentance, and loving truth. The Context of Zechariah's Message Zechariah ministered to the returning exiles who were rebuilding the temple and city after Babylonian captivity. His message: Repent and rebuild, learning from the failures of their fathers who disobeyed God. “The reason Jerusalem was run over and the walls were down was because their fathers decided not to obey God.” Pastor warned that disobedience in one generation damages the next, but also offered hope: “The Lord will restore everything the cankerworm has eaten… You can start over today because His mercies are new every morning.” God's Zealous Love and Protective Jealousy (Zechariah 8:1–3) God declares: “I am zealous for Zion with great zeal.” Pastor explained the difference between sinful jealousy (possessive, fearful) and God's holy jealousy (protective, loving). He illustrated this with a story of a discerning wife's protective instinct — likening God's jealousy to the kind that protects, not controls. Application: God's jealousy is a shield of love, not suspicion. He guards His people as a husband guards his bride. God's Promise of Restoration and Peace Zechariah's vision shows old men and women in the streets and children playing again — symbols of renewed peace. Pastor noted that this prophecy has a dual fulfillment: Immediate — Israel's physical return and rebuilding under Nehemiah and Zechariah. Future — The millennial kingdom, when Christ reigns and Jerusalem is finally at peace. “There's coming a day when Jerusalem will never be moved again. They'll suffer, but they're there to stay.” The Nations and Israel — God's Sovereign Control Pastor described how world events align with biblical prophecy: nations turning against Israel, yet unable to uproot her. He cautioned that the stage is being set for the end-times conflict when “all nations come against Jerusalem.” “They're not leaving. Russia's not pushing them out. Muslims aren't. America won't compromise them out. They belong to God.” He reminded the congregation that God owns every nation: “Israel belongs to God. So does Saudi Arabia, Iran, Russia, America, and China. The earth is the Lord's.” Key Point: The rise and fall of nations are under divine authority; human plans collapse, but God's purposes stand forever (Psalm 2). God's Call to Integrity and Truth (Zechariah 8:16–17) The Lord calls His people to: Speak truth to neighbors. Give just judgment. Avoid evil and deceit. Pastor explained that while we are no longer “under the law,” the Ten Commandments remain, summed up in Jesus' two greatest commandments: “Love the Lord your God… and love your neighbor as yourself.” He warned against loving lies and gossip, urging believers to love truth even when it hurts: “Love truth when it punches you in the face. It's your protector.” The Value of Correction and Loving Truth Pastor reminded that truth both encourages and rebukes: “One day truth pats you on the back, saying, ‘Keep going.' The next day it slaps you on the shoulder and says, ‘Stop being foolish.' We need both.” Truth guards against deception — echoing Paul's warning that in the last days, God will send strong delusion to those who reject truth (2 Thess. 2:11–12). Application: “Don't just love truth when it makes you feel good — love it when it corrects you. That's what keeps you safe.” Restoration of Joy and the Future Kingdom (Zechariah 8:19–23) God promised that Israel's fasts of mourning would become feasts of joy. People from many nations would say, “Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.” Pastor noted this points to both: Israel's national revival, and The global acknowledgment of God's presence among His people. He reminded the church that God reveals Himself to all nations and that no one is beyond His reach, citing: “The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.” (Titus 2:11) God's Sovereignty in Judgment and Mercy (Zechariah 9) Pastor transitioned into Zechariah 9, noting it shifts from restoration to prophecy and divine judgment. The Lord declares He will judge the surrounding nations (Tyre, Sidon, Gaza, Ashkelon, Philistia), showing He alone controls history. “Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. If He tells you to store up, do it. If not, don't worry — just obey Him.” Prophecy of the Messiah — The Triumphal Entry (Zechariah 9:9–10) One of Scripture's clearest messianic prophecies: “Behold, your King is coming to you… lowly and riding on a donkey.” Pastor showed how this prophecy was fulfilled exactly in Luke 19:28–40, 500 years later, when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a colt. He explained Jesus' deity through this miracle: He knew where the donkey was before the disciples arrived. The unbroken colt didn't resist because its Creator was riding it. “You don't buck the one who made you.” Key Revelation: Even creation recognizes the Creator. When the Pharisees told Jesus to silence His followers, He replied, “If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” Closing Reflections — God's Ownership and Faithfulness Everything in creation belongs to God and returns to Him. All life flows from Him — human, animal, or natural — and He sustains it all. Pastor closed personally, thanking the congregation for prayers during his recovery from hip pain, testifying how God used the trial to draw him closer: “If you'll just talk to God and open your life to Him, He'll use it. He knows how to do things right.” He reflected on Jacob's limp and said, like the patriarch, “God weakened my strength in the way” to prepare him for the next phase of ministry. Core Message God's jealousy is protective — His love guards His people. Love truth, even when it hurts. Israel's restoration and Christ's reign are certain. God's Word is precise — prophecy always fulfills perfectly. Every trial, every delay, every pain can be used by God for transformation.  

In this second episode on understanding Kaddish from the Prayer Podcast series, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the ancient prayer's origins, composed in Aramaic by the Men of the Great Assembly during the Babylonian exile. Kaddish serves to bring "Hashem awareness" into the lower worlds, bypassing angelic interference since angels don't understand Aramaic. Originally just a half-Kaddish recited seven times daily by the prayer leader, it has expanded to include versions for mourners, siyum completions, and gravesides. The core purpose is Kiddush Hashem—sanctifying God's name—ranging from ultimate martyrdom (like Rebbe Akiva or Rabbi Elchanan Wasserman) to everyday acts of prioritizing God's will over personal desires, such as reciting Kaddish or making Kiddush on Shabbos.Kaddish acts as a spiritual elevator between the four kabbalistic worlds: Asiyah (action, morning blessings), Yetzirah (formation, Pesukei Dezimra), Beriah (creation, Shema blessings), and Atzilus (emanation, Amidah). It solidifies God's presence in each world before transitioning, with no Kaddish between Beriah and Atzilus to avoid interrupting redemption and prayer. Responding with full intent to "Amen, Yehei Shemei Rabba" can nullify heavenly decrees by restoring sanctity removed through sin. The prayer's structure magnifies God's name across all worlds, with congregational responses affirming redemption, peace, and Mashiach's arrival. Numerical symbolism abounds: four opening words reflect God's four-letter name, 10 words spell it out further, and 28 letters/words equal "koach" (strength), emphasizing empowerment through praise.Ultimately, Kaddish empowers every individual to achieve greatness by bringing godliness into daily life, congregations, and the world. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes retraining ourselves to respond with focus, turning routine recitations into acts of profound devotion. The episode concludes with a teaser for next week's dive into Pesukei Dezimra, the verses of praise that "prune" spiritual blockages._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #41) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on November 4, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 7, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #Kaddish, #JewishPrayer, #Hashem, #RabbiAkiva, #Sanctification, #DivineCloseness ★ Support this podcast ★

In this second episode on understanding Kaddish from the Prayer Podcast series, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the ancient prayer's origins, composed in Aramaic by the Men of the Great Assembly during the Babylonian exile. Kaddish serves to bring "Hashem awareness" into the lower worlds, bypassing angelic interference since angels don't understand Aramaic. Originally just a half-Kaddish recited seven times daily by the prayer leader, it has expanded to include versions for mourners, siyum completions, and gravesides. The core purpose is Kiddush Hashem—sanctifying God's name—ranging from ultimate martyrdom (like Rebbe Akiva or Rabbi Elchanan Wasserman) to everyday acts of prioritizing God's will over personal desires, such as reciting Kaddish or making Kiddush on Shabbos.Kaddish acts as a spiritual elevator between the four kabbalistic worlds: Asiyah (action, morning blessings), Yetzirah (formation, Pesukei Dezimra), Beriah (creation, Shema blessings), and Atzilus (emanation, Amidah). It solidifies God's presence in each world before transitioning, with no Kaddish between Beriah and Atzilus to avoid interrupting redemption and prayer. Responding with full intent to "Amen, Yehei Shemei Rabba" can nullify heavenly decrees by restoring sanctity removed through sin. The prayer's structure magnifies God's name across all worlds, with congregational responses affirming redemption, peace, and Mashiach's arrival. Numerical symbolism abounds: four opening words reflect God's four-letter name, 10 words spell it out further, and 28 letters/words equal "koach" (strength), emphasizing empowerment through praise.Ultimately, Kaddish empowers every individual to achieve greatness by bringing godliness into daily life, congregations, and the world. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes retraining ourselves to respond with focus, turning routine recitations into acts of profound devotion. The episode concludes with a teaser for next week's dive into Pesukei Dezimra, the verses of praise that "prune" spiritual blockages._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #41) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on November 4, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 7, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #Kaddish, #JewishPrayer, #Hashem, #RabbiAkiva, #Sanctification, #DivineCloseness ★ Support this podcast ★

After 70 years of exile in Babylon Cyrus, the king of Persia, who had recently conquered the city of Babylon, decreed that the exiled Jews be allowed to return to Judea and to rebuild Jerusalem. The decree was made in BC 537. Read it aloud in verses 2-4 of Ezra 1. Two thousand five hundred and twenty years later the Embassy of the USA is relocated from Tel Aviv of Jerusalem and a coin is minted showing Cyrus on one side and the then American president, Donald Trump. The uncirculated coin - meaning the coin is not legal tender - is inscribed with the words from Ezra 1verses2. The gold and silver vessels of the former temple at Jerusalem which had been stored in the treasure house in Babylon are returned to the new temple that is to be built in Jerusalem. Chapter 2 of Ezra gives us an inventory of the vessels and speaks the faithful remnant who with Ezra the scribe. King Cyrus makes a generous donation towards the cost of rebuilding Jerusalem. The vessels represent the saintsverses Isaiah 22verses24; 2 Timothy 2verses20-21.Hosea 5 deals with the judgment to come upon faithless Israel and Judah. Yahweh would, like a lion, tear His people because of their rebellious ways firstly through the Assyrian lion who would carry Israel captive; and then Judah would experience a similar fate 120 years later at the hands of the Babylonians.Acts 21 records Paul's journey to Jerusalem. The Apostle comforts and encourages many groups of disciples as he heads to Jerusalem. An old prophet, named Agabus, attempts to persuade Paul to go no further. Paul will not, like his lord, be dissuaded from going. The first thing Paul does on his arrival is to see James who advises him of the best course of action to be taken so as to avoid trouble. The Apostle is advised to complete his Nazarite vow and to cover the expenses of four other brothers who are completing their vows. James reiterates to Paul that the only binding requirements on Gentile believers are the keeping of the four matters agreed upon at the Jerusalem Conference. However, Paul cannot peacefully complete his vow since he is arrested in the temple by Asian Jews. These hostile Jews mistakenly believe that Paul has profaned the temple by bringing Trophimus, a Gentile Ephesian into the temple. A Tribune from the Roman fort of Antonia rescues Paul and commands that he be chained. The crowd clamours for the Apostle's blood, just as they had for his Lord's some three and a half decades earlier. In the barracks Paul speaks with the Tribune dismissing many of the fanciful thoughts as to who Paul might be. Paul asks for permission to address the crowd from the steps of the fort and his speech is recorded in chapter 22. Paul gives his defence in Hebrew and initially the crowd pays close attention. The aged Apostle describes his own education in the Pharisaic tradition under Gamaliel and his zeal for the Law. After this he tells of his experiences on the Damascus road, his conversion to a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul says that he is warned by Jesus his Lord to immediately leave Jerusalem since his testimony will not be accepted. The Jews attentively listen until Paul speaks of being sent to the Gentiles. Once again uproar follows and the Tribune commands that Paul be scourged that the Tribune might understand why the multitude were so angry with the Apostle. Paul, on this occasion, uses his Roman citizenship to avoid a pointless flogging. The chapter concludes with the Tribune intending to have Paul examined by the Jewish Sanhedrin on the next day.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

After 70 years of exile in Babylon Cyrus, the king of Persia, who had recently conquered the city of Babylon, decreed that the exiled Jews be allowed to return to Judea and to rebuild Jerusalem. The decree was made in BC 537. Read it aloud in verses 2-4 of Ezra 1. Two thousand five hundred and twenty years later the Embassy of the USA is relocated from Tel Aviv of Jerusalem and a coin is minted showing Cyrus on one side and the then American president, Donald Trump. The uncirculated coin - meaning the coin is not legal tender - is inscribed with the words from Ezra 1verses2. The gold and silver vessels of the former temple at Jerusalem which had been stored in the treasure house in Babylon are returned to the new temple that is to be built in Jerusalem. Chapter 2 of Ezra gives us an inventory of the vessels and speaks the faithful remnant who with Ezra the scribe. King Cyrus makes a generous donation towards the cost of rebuilding Jerusalem. The vessels represent the saintsverses Isaiah 22verses24; 2 Timothy 2verses20-21. Hosea 5 deals with the judgment to come upon faithless Israel and Judah. Yahweh would, like a lion, tear His people because of their rebellious ways firstly through the Assyrian lion who would carry Israel captive; and then Judah would experience a similar fate 120 years later at the hands of the Babylonians. Acts 21 records Paul's journey to Jerusalem. The Apostle comforts and encourages many groups of disciples as he heads to Jerusalem. An old prophet, named Agabus, attempts to persuade Paul to go no further. Paul will not, like his lord, be dissuaded from going. The first thing Paul does on his arrival is to see James who advises him of the best course of action to be taken so as to avoid trouble. The Apostle is advised to complete his Nazarite vow and to cover the expenses of four other brothers who are completing their vows. James reiterates to Paul that the only binding requirements on Gentile believers are the keeping of the four matters agreed upon at the Jerusalem Conference. However, Paul cannot peacefully complete his vow since he is arrested in the temple by Asian Jews. These hostile Jews mistakenly believe that Paul has profaned the temple by bringing Trophimus, a Gentile Ephesian into the temple. A Tribune from the Roman fort of Antonia rescues Paul and commands that he be chained. The crowd clamours for the Apostle's blood, just as they had for his Lord's some three and a half decades earlier. In the barracks Paul speaks with the Tribune dismissing many of the fanciful thoughts as to who Paul might be. Paul asks for permission to address the crowd from the steps of the fort and his speech is recorded in chapter 22. Paul gives his defence in Hebrew and initially the crowd pays close attention. The aged Apostle describes his own education in the Pharisaic tradition under Gamaliel and his zeal for the Law. After this he tells of his experiences on the Damascus road, his conversion to a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul says that he is warned by Jesus his Lord to immediately leave Jerusalem since his testimony will not be accepted. The Jews attentively listen until Paul speaks of being sent to the Gentiles. Once again uproar follows and the Tribune commands that Paul be scourged that the Tribune might understand why the multitude were so angry with the Apostle. Paul, on this occasion, uses his Roman citizenship to avoid a pointless flogging. The chapter concludes with the Tribune intending to have Paul examined by the Jewish Sanhedrin on the next day. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

2 Chronicles 36 tells of the rapid disintegration of Judah after the death of Josiah. Jehoahaz, the son of Josiah becomes king at the age of 23 and rules for 3 months until he is deposed and taken to Egypt by Pharaoh Neco. Pharaoh Neco takes Jehoiakim (Jehoahaz's brother) and makes him king and changes his name to Eliakim. Eliakim is 25 years old when he becomes king and he reigns for 11 evil years practising wickedness in defiance of his God. The year is now about BC 607 and Nebuchadnezzar has just come to the throne of Babylon. The Babylonian king makes an incursion into Judah taking Jerusalem and carrying away many captives and several of Judah's princes including Daniel and his three friends. Additionally, the Chaldeans take away the vessels of the temple. Nebuchadnezzar has three further incursions into Judah until the final overthrow of Jerusalem in BC 587. Jehoiachin the son of Eliakim is placed upon the vassal throne. He is 18 years of age and rules for only three months and ten days until he, too, is taken to Babylon with the most precious vessels from the temple. And on this occasion another evil king is deposed. Zedekiah, the brother of Jehoahaz ascends the throne at the age of 21 and rules for 11 evil years. This last king of Judah is a vacillating, covenant breaking king who earns the wrath of Nebuchadnezzar. Ezekiel 21verses25-27 spoke of this final overthrowing of Judah's kingdom and saying that the throne would remain vacant until "he comes whose right it is" - because he is God's Son and David's righteous heir - and God will then establish Christ's throne forever. The book concludes with two significant events - one negative, one positive - the burning and destruction of Jerusalem; and the decree of Cyrus in BC 537 that sees the return of the exiles.Acts 20 records that after the riot Paul calls for and encourages the ecclesia before departing into Macedonian. Six brethren accompany him as the representatives of their ecclesias. These delegates are carrying relief funds for the poor believers in Judea who are suffering the effects of a great famine. The chapter says Paul stops at Miletus and asks the elders of Ephesus join him there where Paul gives the ecclesia final encouraging words and warning them of dangers which would arise after his demise. The Apostle gives a very long talk, and because of the poor ventilation in the room a young man named Eutychus falls asleep in the window and he falls three storeys to the ground and is pronounced dead.Paul miraculously raises Eutychus and continues preaching until sunrise. Paul's intentions of departing into Macedonia appear not to have been achieved and he is now hurrying to Jerusalem to arrive before the feast of Pentecost. The Apostle's speech to the Ephesian elders is recorded from verses 18-35. In summary he tells them of their solemn responsibilities, warning them of a decline due to those who would seek leadership for their own advantage. On the positive side, Paul, in verse 32, commends them to God and the Word of His grace - read aloud, pause and ponder. The Apostle also quotes some unrecorded words of our Lord Jesus Christ - "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (v35). The assembled group pray together on the beach and then an old prophet warns Paul of what would comeupon him from the time of his arriving in Jerusalem. They greatly sorrow that they will see his face no more, but they respect Paul's resolute courage.

After her whordom with the Babylonians she detested them, she loosed them from her mind.

2 Chronicles 36 tells of the rapid disintegration of Judah after the death of Josiah. Jehoahaz, the son of Josiah becomes king at the age of 23 and rules for 3 months until he is deposed and taken to Egypt by Pharaoh Neco. Pharaoh Neco takes Jehoiakim (Jehoahaz's brother) and makes him king and changes his name to Eliakim. Eliakim is 25 years old when he becomes king and he reigns for 11 evil years practising wickedness in defiance of his God. The year is now about BC 607 and Nebuchadnezzar has just come to the throne of Babylon. The Babylonian king makes an incursion into Judah taking Jerusalem and carrying away many captives and several of Judah's princes including Daniel and his three friends. Additionally, the Chaldeans take away the vessels of the temple. Nebuchadnezzar has three further incursions into Judah until the final overthrow of Jerusalem in BC 587. Jehoiachin the son of Eliakim is placed upon the vassal throne. He is 18 years of age and rules for only three months and ten days until he, too, is taken to Babylon with the most precious vessels from the temple. And on this occasion another evil king is deposed. Zedekiah, the brother of Jehoahaz ascends the throne at the age of 21 and rules for 11 evil years. This last king of Judah is a vacillating, covenant breaking king who earns the wrath of Nebuchadnezzar. Ezekiel 21verses25-27 spoke of this final overthrowing of Judah's kingdom and saying that the throne would remain vacant until "he comes whose right it is" - because he is God's Son and David's righteous heir - and God will then establish Christ's throne forever. The book concludes with two significant events - one negative, one positive - the burning and destruction of Jerusalem; and the decree of Cyrus in BC 537 that sees the return of the exiles. Hosea 4 presents a courtroom scene where Yahweh accuses Israel of their unfaithfulness to Him. All parts of nature and every creature is affected. The chapter's key verse is verse 6 - it should be read aloud and pondered. What a lesson for us! Never let us make light of the understanding of God's Word - for if we treat Yahweh's word with contempt the consequences will be disastrous to ourselves and to our families. Greed and covetousness were the measure of Judah's worship - if there was no profit to be made they weren't interested. But the time would come when they are captive in Babylon when they would rethink their ways and repent. Acts 20 records that after the riot Paul calls for and encourages the ecclesia before departing into Macedonian. Six brethren accompany him as the representatives of their ecclesias. These delegates are carrying relief funds for the poor believers in Judea who are suffering the effects of a great famine. The chapter says Paul stops at Miletus and asks the elders of Ephesus join him there where Paul gives the ecclesia final encouraging words and warning them of dangers which would arise after his demise. The Apostle gives a very long talk, and because of the poor ventilation in the room a young man named Eutychus falls asleep in the window and he falls three storeys to the ground and is pronounced dead. Paul miraculously raises Eutychus and continues preaching until sunrise. Paul's intentions of departing into Macedonia appear not to have been achieved and he is now hurrying to Jerusalem to arrive before the feast of Pentecost. The Apostle's speech to the Ephesian elders is recorded from verses 18-35. In summary he tells them of their solemn responsibilities, warning them of a decline due to those who would seek leadership for their own advantage. On the positive side, Paul, in verse 32, commends them to God and the Word of His grace - read aloud, pause and ponder. The Apostle also quotes some unrecorded words of our Lord Jesus Christ - "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (v35). The assembled group pray together on the beach and then an old prophet warns Paul of what would come   upon him from the time of his arriving in Jerusalem. They greatly sorrow that they will see his face no more, but they respect Paul's resolute courage. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

In this powerful message with Pastor Marcus, we dive deep into the ancient battle between Babylon and Jerusalem—the City of Man versus the City of God. Drawing from Daniel 1:1-5, we reveal how the Babylonian spirit still works in the world today, attacking families, morals, and freedom. Discover:- Why God will bless those who bless Israel- The true meaning of Babylon and its relentless agenda- How Babylon hates family and seeks to control the next generation- What it means to stand with GodEven if the world sees you as broken or rejected, God sees your value. Learn how to live with the mind of Christ, resist cultural pressure, and stand firm in your faith with humility, love, and truth.Babylon may try to silence you, but God has already given you a voice. This message is a call to action—pray, serve, and love like never before. Be part of the solution, not the problem.

Presented by Julie Busteed I'm looking at some strategies to help grow and build relationships—principles that apply at work, home, church—with everyone. The first two strategies I looked at were loving others and communication skills. I think integrity is also an important component in healthy relationships. Integrity really covers several qualities. It's being honest, having strong moral principles, and being trustworthy and reliable. A great example of integrity in the Old Testament is Daniel. He was taken into captivity from Israel to Babylon, and he became an adviser to the Babylonian kings because of his integrity and trust in God. For many, it's a familiar story but to recap: Daniel refuses to bow down and worship a man-made idol. He worships and prays to God. As a result, he is thrown into a literal lion's den. The next morning, he testifies that my God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight (Daniel 6:22a). Not only did God protect and preserve Daniel, but King Darius also decrees everyone in his kingdom must fear and revere the God of Daniel. Daniel's integrity and courage not only effected his own life, but the entire kingdom was now to fear God. He trusted and honored God in his actions, and his integrity was evident to his employer, resulting in a testimony to the entire kingdom. Integrity can also be something significant done privately, not for public recognition. A friend of mine recently showed a great example of integrity. She just published a book through a traditional publisher. Normally, when you work with a publisher, you receive an advance against future royalties—meaning you don't earn additional royalties until the book's sales cover that advance. And if the book doesn't sell enough to cover it, the author doesn't have to pay it back. That's completely normal. But my friend told me she wants to make sure her book's sales do reach that advance amount. She's putting in extra effort to promote and market her book because she doesn't want to be a burden to the publisher. She isn't required to do this—it's not part of her contract—but she feels it's the right thing to do. Quiet integrity. In both of these examples, integrity was a vital characteristic in dealing with others. Integrity directed how they should act in certain situations—be it life or death—or something that's not really seen by others. With faith in God and belief he is faithful, they lived out their lives in honor to him. Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out (Proverbs 10:9). When we live our lives with integrity, we can walk securely—quietly resting upon God's favor and gracious providence.

The Bible Study centers on the prophet Habakkuk, a questioning voice in a time of moral decay and impending judgment, who confronts God with honest doubts about divine justice and silence in the face of widespread wickedness. Through a dialogue between human perplexity and divine sovereignty, Habakkuk's initial lament—why God permits injustice—is met with a startling revelation: God will use the ruthless Babylonians to judge Judah, a response that challenges human understanding but affirms God's ultimate control and purposes. The message underscores that God's ways are higher than human ways, His timing is perfect, and His promises—though delayed—will surely be fulfilled, as seen in the historical fulfillment of prophetic judgment. The Bibel Study emphasizes trust in God's wisdom and justice, even when circumstances defy comprehension, and points to the broader biblical truth that God remains sovereign over all nations and histories. Ultimately, the passage calls believers to persevere in faith, recognizing that God's judgment is both righteous and redemptive, and that His word will never return void.

Land isn't just dirt under buildings—it's the world's oldest, strangest asset, worth an estimated $180T, quietly steering credit cycles, politics, and who gets to build the future. Economist editor and Money Talks host Mike Bird joins us to decode the “land trap”: why superstar cities underbuild, how mortgages turned banks into land-collateral machines, and what Japan's 1980s super-bubble can (and can't) teach us about China's managed deflation today. We trace ownership from Babylonian stone ledgers to modern cadastres, ask whether America ever ran a de facto “land standard,” and explore pragmatic exits: build where demand is, deepen capital markets so homes aren't the only savings vehicle, and tax land value uplift to fund infrastructure. ---

Habakkuk (embrace)According to the Smith's Bible Dictionary, Habakkuk means (embrace). This book would be the eighth, in order, of the Minor Prophets. Of the facts of the prophet's life, we have no certain information.One important aspect of the ancient Old Testament order of the Hebrew Bible is that the 12 prophetic works of Hosea through Malachi, sometimes referred to as the Minor Prophets, were designed as a single book called The Twelve. Habakkuk is the eighth book of The Twelve.Habakkuk lived in the final decades of Judah, Israel's southern kingdom. It was a time of injustice and idolatry, and he saw the rising threat of the Babylonian empire on the horizon. Unlike the other Hebrew prophets, Habakkuk doesn't accuse Israel or even speak to the people on Yahweh's behalf. Instead, all of his words are addressed to Yahweh. The book of Habakkuk tells us about Habakkuk's personal struggle to believe that Yahweh is good when there is so much tragedy and evil in the world.Habakkuk sees the darkness of the world as an invitation to have faith in Yahweh's promise to one day set things right. Living with such faith means trusting that Yahweh loves this world and works to one day eliminate all evil forever.In this chapter 2 we have an answer expected by the prophet (verse 1), and returned by the Spirit of Yahweh, to the complaints which the prophet made of the violence's and victories of the Chaldeans in the close of the prior chapter. The answer is,  I. That after Yahweh has served his own purposes by the prevailing power of the Chaldeans, has tried the faith and patience of his people, and distinguished between the hypocrites and the sincere among them, he will consider with the Chaldeans, will humble and bring down, not only that proud monarch Nebuchadnezzar, but that proud monarchy, for their boundless and greedy thirst after dominion and wealth, for which they themselves should at length be made a prey (verses 2-8). II. That not they only, but all other sinners like them, should perish under a divine woe.  1. Those that are jealous are greedy of wealth and honors (verses 9, 11).  2. Those that are harmful and oppressive, and raise estates by wrongful acts and the violent seizure of someone's property (verses 12-14).  3. Those that promote drunkenness that they may expose their neighbors' to shame (verses 15-17).  4. Those that worship idols (verses 18-20).1   Habakkuk resolutely waits for Yahweh's reply.watch = ‘mish-meh'-reth' watch-tower; referring to the place. set me = take my station. tower = fortress. watch = ‘tsaw-faw''look out; referring to the act = keep outlook. unto: = or, in.And watch to see what He will say unto me = Habakkuk has raised two important questions with Yahweh, yet he asked both with a proper attitude2   The Righteous Shall Live by His Faith verse 2-5; Woes against BabylonWrite the vision = which I am about to reveal to thee. Reference to the Old Testament (Deut. 27:8). ‘And thou shalt write upon the stones all the words of this law very plainly.'The true sense is, “so legible that whoever readeth it, may run to tell all whom he can the good news of the foe's coming doom, and Judah's deliverance.”“Run” is equivalent to announce the divine revelation (Jerm. 23:21); as everyone who becomes informed of a divine message is bound to run, that is, use all dispatch to make it known to others. Join me as we go Chapter by Chapter, Verse by Verse, Unraveling the Words of Yahweh!Have any questions? Feel free to email me; keitner2024@outlook.com

The year is 539 BC. The greatest city of the ancient world has fallen. Babylon has opened it's gates to a new conqueror: the mighty Persian king Cyrus the Great.In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined once again by friend of the show Professor Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones to uncover the dramatic fall of Babylon and the ascent of Persia's Achaemenid empire. From the final decades of Babylonian rule to Cyrus' blood-stained triumph and the city's remarkable survival under a new regime, they discover how one of history's most iconic capitals lost its crown - a seismic chapter in the tumultuous story of the Ancient Near East.Watch this episode on our NEW YouTube channel: @TheAncientsPodcastMORE:The Walls of BabylonCyrus the GreatPresented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Aidan Lonergan, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic SoundsThe Ancients is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this message, Minister Mark Ashton teaches what it means to live as exiles—people called by God to thrive in a world that isn't their home. From the Babylonian captivity to modern culture, this sermon unpacks how to live faithfully in the midst of pressure, isolation, and moral decline. Drawing from Daniel's courage, Jeremiah's wisdom, and God's promises in Jeremiah 29, Mark challenges us to build, plant, and seek the peace of the city—even when life feels far from where we hoped to be. Discover how God uses exile to refine His people, restore hope, and remind us that our true citizenship is in heaven.

Israel's Future in Bible Prophecy:  A Biblical Exposition   Introduction: The Setting from Luke 21 As we open our Bibles to the Gospel of Luke, chapter 21, we find Jesus standing on the Mount of Olives, overlooking the city of Jerusalem. His disciples marvel at the temple's grandeur, but the Lord turns their attention to far greater matters—the signs of the end times and the destiny of His people.    In Luke 21:20-24, Jesus declares: "And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.”   Here, the Lord Jesus foretells the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, a tragic fulfillment of judgment on unbelieving Israel.    Yet, notice the phrase "until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." This points beyond that historical event to a future restoration. The "times of the Gentiles" refer to the period when Gentile powers dominate Jerusalem, but it has an end. From this vantage, Jesus shifts in verses 25-28 to cosmic signs and His return:   "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”   Luke 21 sets the stage for our study: Israel's past rebellion, present trials, and glorious future under the Messiah's reign. God's Word promises that though Israel has stumbled, He will lift them up. Let us trace this thread through Scripture, seeing God's unchanging faithfulness to His covenant people. Israel's Past: From Abraham's Call to Repeated Rejection To understand Israel's future, we must first look back to her origins. God did not find Israel as a nation; He created her. In Genesis 12:1-3, the Lord calls Abram, a Gentile idol-worshiper from Ur of the Chaldees:   "Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.”   Abram—later Abraham—became the father of the Jewish nation through Isaac and Jacob, whom God renamed Israel (Genesis 32:28). This was no accident of history; it was divine election. God promised Abraham an everlasting covenant in Genesis 17:7-8:   "And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.”   This covenant is unconditional—based on God's promise, not Israel's performance. It includes land, seed, and blessing, and it stands today. God reiterated it to Isaac (Genesis 26:3-4) and Jacob (Genesis 28:13-15), forming the twelve tribes of Israel.   Yet, from the exodus onward, Israel repeatedly rejected her Creator. In the wilderness, they murmured against Moses and God (Exodus 17:3; Numbers 14:1-4). Entering the land, they turned to idols (Judges 2:11-13).    The kings, from Saul to the divided kingdom, led them into idolatry, culminating in Assyrian and Babylonian captivities (2 Kings 17:7-18; 2 Kings 25). Prophets like Jeremiah warned of judgment for covenant unfaithfulness (Jeremiah 3:6-10).   This pattern peaked in the rejection of the Messiah Himself. The Jewish leaders knew the Scriptures foretold His coming. Psalm 22:16-18 vividly describes His crucifixion:  "For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture.”   Isaiah 53:3-6, 9-12 paints the suffering Servant: "He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. ... And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth. Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”   Micah 5:2 pinpointed His birthplace in Bethlehem. Zechariah 9:9 described His humble entry on a donkey. The religious elite studied these texts daily. Yet, when Jesus fulfilled them—born in Bethlehem, riding into Jerusalem on a colt, bearing our sins on Calvary—they rejected Him defiantly, not blindly.   In John 1:11, we read: "He came unto his own, and his own received him not." They expected a conquering general to smash Rome, not a suffering Savior (Acts 1:6). But they knew. In Matthew 27:22-25, Pilate asks, "What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ?" The crowd cries, "Let him be crucified." When warned of innocent blood, they shout, "His blood be on us, and on our children." This was open defiance. Peter charges in Acts 2:23: "Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain."    And in Acts 7:51-52, Stephen indicts: "Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers.”   Israel's history is one of gracious election met with stubborn rebellion. Yet God, in mercy, preserved a remnant through exile and diaspora, never forsaking His word.   Israel Today: A Tiny Nation Amid Global Hatred and Fleeting Peace Fast-forward to our day. Ethnic Israel—the Jewish people descended from Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—numbers about 9.6 million worldwide, with roughly 7.3 million living in the modern State of Israel. This political entity, reestablished in 1948, occupies a land about 8,500 square miles—roughly seven times the size of Rhode Island, yet smaller than many U.S. states, squeezed between vast hostile neighbors. It's a miracle of survival: a people scattered for nearly 2,000 years, regathered to their ancient homeland against all odds.   But today, antisemitism surges like a tidal wave, especially in the United States. Reports show a 21% global rise in incidents in July 2025 alone, with the U.S. seeing nearly 70% of religion-based hate crimes targeting Jews. ADL surveys reveal antisemitism has woven into daily American Jewish life—on campuses, streets, and workplaces—spiking since recent Middle East conflicts. Why this hatred? Scripture unveils the roots.   First, it's divine judgment for rejecting the Messiah. In Matthew 27:25, their cry of "His blood be on us, and on our children" echoes through generations, as Jesus warned in Luke 19:41-44: "And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.”   This "visitation" was Christ, spurned. Zechariah 12:2-3 prophesies nations gathering against Jerusalem like a "burdensome stone," a future reality foreshadowed today.   Second, Satan fuels this enmity. As the father of lies (John 8:44), he hates Israel because through her seed comes the woman's offspring who crushes his head (Genesis 3:15). Revelation 12:13 depicts the dragon (Satan) pursuing the woman (Israel):    "And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child." Satan knows Israel's role in God's redemptive plan—birthplace of the Church, guardian of Scripture, and future throne for Messiah.   Why does God allow this? To humble His people, drive them to repentance, and fulfill prophecy. Deuteronomy 28:15, 64 warns of curses for disobedience:  "But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee. ... And the LORD shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone.”   Yet, this scattering has an end. God uses hatred to refine Israel, as Hosea 5:15 states: "I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.”   Amid this, Israel boasts more peace initiatives than any nation. The Abraham Accords under President Trump in 2020 normalized ties with Arab states, and in 2025, Trump unveiled a bold 20-point Gaza peace plan, signed in its first phase, aiming for enduring prosperity without forced displacements.    Trump's "peace through strength" approach—bolstered by U.S. resolve—has invitations from leaders like Egypt's el-Sisi for regional summits. Noble as these are, Scripture warns they are fragile. Daniel 9:27 foretells a future "prince that shall come" (the Antichrist) who "shall confirm the covenant with many for one week"—a seven-year peace deal with Israel, only to break it midway: "And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.”   No human accord can thwart God's timeline. These deals set the stage for the ultimate betrayal.     We must distinguish: Ethnic Israel is God's covenant people, the physical descendants of Abraham (Romans 9:4-5).    Political Israel is the modern state—a vessel for prophecy, but not the full spiritual fulfillment yet.  God preserves the nation, but salvation comes to individuals who repent.   God Is Not Done with Israel: Insights from Romans 9-10 Turn to Romans 9-10, where Paul, a Jew of Jews, wrestles with his people's unbelief. He affirms God's irrevocable gifts in Romans 11:29: "For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance." But chapters 9-10 explain the tension.   In Romans 9:1-5, Paul's anguish pours out: "I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.”   Israel has every advantage—covenants, law, promises—yet many reject Christ. Paul explains in Romans 9:30-33: "What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.”   Their zeal without knowledge (Romans 10:2) led to defiance.    Yet God hardens whom He will (Romans 9:18), not arbitrarily, but to fulfill mercy on both Jews and Gentiles (Romans 11:11-12, 25-27): "I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? ... For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.”   "All Israel shall be saved"—a national turning to Messiah at His return. Paul quotes Isaiah 59:20-21 and 27:9, confirming future restoration.     Beware of replacement theology, the dangerous error claiming the Church has permanently supplanted Israel in God's plan. It twists Romans 11 to say the "olive tree" is only the Church, erasing Israel's distinct promises. This denies the land covenant (Genesis 15:18), ignores prophecies like Ezekiel 37's dry bones reviving as a nation, and contradicts Paul's plea in Romans 10:1: "Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved."    This desire points future, not past. God has two programs: one for the Church (the body of Christ, Jew and Gentile in one, Ephesians 2:14-16), and one for national Israel. To merge them robs God of His faithfulness and fuels antisemitism by devaluing the Jewish people. Though Israel has defied Him—from golden calf to crucifying the King—God loves His covenant people. Jeremiah 31:3 whispers: "The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee."    He cannot break covenant; Numbers 23:19 assures: "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?”   Israel's Future: Tribulation, Invasion, and Glorious Restoration The road ahead is stormy, but victory dawns. Zechariah 12:10 promises: "And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.”   The Great Tribulation: Judgment and Awakening The Tribulation—a seven-year period of Jacob's trouble (Jeremiah 30:7)—brings global wrath, but especially on Israel. Why? First, to judge unbelieving Jews and the world for sin. Revelation 6-19 details seals, trumpets, and bowls of judgment. Second, to break Israel's defiance, as Zechariah 13:8-9 foretells:  "And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.”   Third, to prepare earth for Christ's return in Revelation 19:11-16, where He treads the winepress of wrath: "And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. ... And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”   During this horror, Israel becomes a focal point—and unwilling host to the world. Revelation 12:6 describes: "And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days." Multitudes flee to Israel seeking refuge, only to face Antichrist's fury. Yet, salvation breaks through. God seals 144,000 Jewish evangelists from the tribes (Revelation 7:4-8)—12,000 from each—to proclaim the Gospel worldwide.    Two witnesses in Jerusalem, empowered, most likely Moses and Elijah, prophesy for 1,260 days, calling fire from heaven and striking with plagues (Revelation 11:3-6): "And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. ... And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed. These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.” Their ministry awakens thousands. When slain, God resurrects them before a watching world (Revelation 11:7-12). Many Jews repent, fulfilling Romans 11:26. As Antichrist's abomination desecrates the temple (Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15), believing Jews flee to Petra (Bozrah), the rose-red city of Edom. Jesus urged in Matthew 24:15-21:  "When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: ... For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.”   God supernaturally protects them there for 1,260 days (Revelation 12:14), as Micah 2:12 gathers a remnant to "Mizpah"—a stronghold.   The Ezekiel 38-39 Invasion: Gog's Futile Assault Before or early in the Tribulation, a massive coalition attacks a seemingly secure Israel. Ezekiel 38:1-6, 8-9, 14-16 describes: "And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him, And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal: And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed with all sorts of armour, even a great company with bucklers and shields, all of them handling swords: Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya with them; all of them with shield and helmet: Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands: and many people with thee. ... After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword, and is gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them. Thou shalt ascend and come like a storm, thou shalt be like a cloud to cover the land, thou, and all thy bands, and many people with thee. ... Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say unto Gog, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In that day when my people of Israel dwelleth safely, shalt thou not know it? And thou shalt come from thy place out of the north parts, thou, and many people with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great company, and a mighty army: And thou shalt come up against my people of Israel, as a cloud to cover the land; it shall be in the latter days, and I will bring thee against my land, that the heathen may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.”   Gog (a title, perhaps Russia's leader) leads Magog (Russia), Persia (Iran), Ethiopia, Libya, Gomer (Turkey), and Togarmah. They invade for spoil, when Israel dwells "safely"—perhaps post-peace deal. God allows it to reveal His holiness (Ezekiel 38:16, 23).  But He intervenes supernaturally in Ezekiel 38:18-23; 39:1-6: "And it shall come to pass at the same time when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord GOD, that my fury shall come up in my face. For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel; So that the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the heaven, and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth, shall shake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground. And I will call for a sword against him throughout all my mountains, saith the Lord GOD: every man's sword shall be against his brother. And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone. Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD. ... Therefore, thou son of man, prophesy against Gog, and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal: And I will turn thee back, and leave but the sixth part of thee, and will cause thee to come up from the north parts, and will bring thee upon the mountains of Israel: And I will smite thy bow out of thy left hand, and will cause thine arrows to fall out of thy right hand. Thou shalt fall upon the mountains of Israel, thou, and all thy bands, and the people that is with thee: I will give thee unto the ravenous birds of every sort, and to the beasts of the field to be devoured. Thou shalt fall upon the open field: for I have spoken it, saith the Lord GOD. And I will send a fire on Magog, and among them that dwell carelessly in the isles: and they shall know that I am the LORD.”   Birds and beasts feast on the dead (Ezekiel 39:17-20), and it takes seven months to bury them (39:12).  God uses this to turn Israel to Him (39:21-22, 29): "And I will set my glory among the heathen, and all the heathen shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid upon them. So the house of Israel shall know that I am the LORD their God from that day and forward. ... Neither will I hide my face any more from them: for I have poured out my spirit upon the house of Israel, saith the Lord GOD.”   The Antichrist's Treachery and Christ's Victorious Return The Antichrist emerges as a false peace-broker, confirming that seven-year covenant (Daniel 9:27). But midway, he betrays: halting sacrifices, setting up his image in the temple (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4): "Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.”   He persecutes Jews savagely (Daniel 7:25: "And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High"), demanding worship (Revelation 13:15).   But Christ returns! In Revelation 19:19-21: "And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.”   He binds Satan (Revelation 20:1-3) and crushes Israel's foes at Armageddon (Zechariah 14:1-4, 9): "Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in thee. For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle. And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south. ... And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.”   The Millennial Restoration: Blessing Beyond Eden With enemies vanquished, Christ establishes His 1,000-year kingdom (Revelation 20:4-6). Israel, at last, fulfills her calling as head of nations (Isaiah 2:2-3). Zechariah 8:1-3, 7-8, 12-13 paints the joy: "Again the word of the LORD of hosts came to me, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I was jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and I was jealous for her with great fury. Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain. ... Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will save my people from the east country, and from the west country; And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness. ... For the seed shall be prosperous; the vine shall give her fruit, and the ground shall give her increase, and the heavens shall give their dew; and I will cause the remnant of this people to possess all these things. And it shall come to pass, that as ye were a curse among the heathen, O house of Judah, and house of Israel; so will I save you, and ye shall be a blessing: fear not, but let your hands be strong.”   The desert blooms (Isaiah 35:1-2: "The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing").    En-Gedi's shores overflow with fish (Ezekiel 47:8-10): "Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea: which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass, that every thing that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live: and there shall be a very great multitude of fish, because these waters shall come thither: for they shall be healed; and every thing shall live whither the river cometh. And it shall come to pass, that the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many.”   Israel becomes the world's economic powerhouse, exporting blessings (Zechariah 8:13). Nations stream to Jerusalem for instruction (Micah 4:1-2). The wolf dwells with the lamb (Isaiah 11:6-9), pre-Edenic harmony restored.   Beyond the Millennium, after final rebellion and judgment (Revelation 20:7-15), God creates new heavens and earth (Revelation 21:1-4; Isaiah 65:17; 66:22). No more curse—eternal joy, with redeemed Israel and Church worshiping the Lamb forever.   Beloved, Israel's story is God's story: rebellion met with grace. Though they defied Him, He pursues with everlasting love. As Luke 21 urges, when signs unfold, "look up"—redemption draws near. May we, like Paul, pray for Israel's salvation, standing firm on God's unbreakable Word. Amen.

This powerful exploration of Revelation 18 confronts us with an uncomfortable truth: the spirit of Babylon isn't just a future reality—it's alive in our hearts today. The passage presents Babylon as more than a geographical location; it represents a way of life that pursues pleasure, power, prestige, and prosperity at the expense of pursuing God. We're challenged to examine how easily we can become 'Babylonians' ourselves, orienting our lives around material possessions, luxury, and self-gratification rather than godliness. The devastating judgment that falls upon Babylon serves as a sobering reminder that everything we build apart from God will ultimately crumble. Yet there's profound hope in this message: while our sins are 'heaped as high as heaven,' God's mercy through Christ is higher still. The call is clear—we must neither abandon the world nor assimilate to it. Instead, we're to live distinct, godly lives that demonstrate Jesus is better than anything this world offers. Like the exiles in ancient Babylon, we're called to build houses, plant gardens, and seek the welfare of our communities while remaining unstained by worldly values. This isn't about physical removal from society but about pursuing holiness, generosity, and contentment in a culture obsessed with accumulation and self-promotion.

This profound exploration of Jeremiah 31:31-34 invites us to discover that God's faithfulness isn't just a theological conceptit's a living pattern woven throughout history. We journey from ancient campfires in Babylonian exile to the upper room where Jesus spoke of a new covenant, discovering that God's rescue mission has never changed. The exiles who sat in darkness heard a promise that seemed impossible: God would write His law on their hearts, forgive their sins, and restore their relationship with Him. What makes this message so compelling is realizing we're part of this same story. The new covenant isn't merely about Jesus fulfilling ancient prophecy; it's about God doing what He has always donerescuing people who cannot save themselves. We see shadows and echoes of God's redemptive work in the Exodus, in the return from exile, in Christ's sacrifice, and ultimately in the future restoration described in Revelation. The four promises Jeremiah proclaimedinternal transformation, intimate relationship, universal knowledge of God, and complete forgivenessare simultaneously fulfilled and still unfolding. We live in the 'already but not yet,' experiencing the Holy Spirit writing on our hearts while anticipating the day when God will fully dwell among us. This isn't just history; it's our story of grace, hope, and divine rescue. In what ways do you currently feel 'in exile' or distant from God, and how might Jeremiah's promise of a new covenant speak hope into that situation? How does understanding that God's rescue pattern repeats throughout historyfrom Egypt to Babylon to Jesuschange the way you view your current struggles? What does it mean practically for God's law to be 'written on your heart' rather than simply following external rules, and how have you experienced this transformation? The sermon mentions that Israel broke the covenant almost immediately after receiving it at Sinai. Why do you think we repeatedly fail to keep our commitments to God, and what does God's repeated forgiveness reveal about His character? How does recognizing that 'our future is determined not by who we are, but whose we are' shift your perspective on personal identity and security? Jeremiah was told to proclaim a message even though God warned him the people wouldn't listen. When have you felt called to faithfulness despite knowing the outcome might be discouraging? The sermon suggests we're living between the 'already' and 'not yet' fulfillment of God's promises. How does this tension affect the way you live today and hope for tomorrow? What does it mean that we still need to teach our neighbors about God if Jeremiah prophesied a day when everyone would know Him? How do we reconcile partial fulfillment with complete promise? How does the practice of communion help you remember and participate in God's ongoing story of rescue and covenant relationship? The exiles in Babylon told stories around campfires to remember who they were as God's people. What spiritual practices help you remember God's faithfulness when you feel captive or hopeless?

Theme: Judgment, Obedience, and the Centrality of God Pastor Matthew's study covered Zechariah chapters 6–7, drawing parallels between Zechariah's visions, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and God's eternal plan through Christ. The lesson highlighted how obedience, humility, and keeping God at the center are essential for both spiritual and national restoration. Context and Background Zechariah ministered during the time when Israelites were returning from Babylonian exile to rebuild the temple and the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah oversaw the wall; Zechariah encouraged the people spiritually. The prophet's visions often had dual meaning—addressing the present rebuilding work while also pointing forward to the coming Messiah and end-time judgment. Vision of the Four Chariots — Zechariah 6:1-8 Zechariah saw four chariots coming from between two mountains of bronze, symbolizing God's judgment. The red, black, white, and dappled horses represent divine forces sent throughout the earth—similar to the four horsemen in Revelation 6. Pastor Matthew explained the parallels: Red horse – war and conflict Black horse – famine and economic imbalance White horse – deception (often representing the Antichrist's early false peace) Pale horse – death and destruction The vision shows that God rules over all nations, directing both natural and spiritual forces to fulfill His plans. Application: Every believer will face judgment—not for salvation, which is secured in Christ—but for stewardship and obedience. “Think of judgment not as punishment,” Pastor said, “but as whether we've disappointed the One who's given us everything.” Spiritual Reality: The Host of Heaven Zechariah's vision reveals an unseen world—“the spirits of heaven”—at work on God's behalf. Pastor connected this to Jacob's vision at Mahanaim (“two hosts”) and Jesus' words about angels ascending and descending on the Son of Man. Believers are surrounded by heavenly hosts and benefit from their ministry, but only “in Christ”—our access point between heaven and earth. The Crowning of Joshua the High Priest — Zechariah 6:9-15 God commands the making of an elaborate crown to be set on Joshua the high priest, symbolizing restoration. Joshua foreshadows Christ, the true High Priest, called “the Branch”, who will build the spiritual temple of the Lord and reign as both King and Priest. Pastor explained that this prefigures Jesus as the eternal priest “after the order of Melchizedek,” whose covenant was established before the foundation of the world. Core truth: “As long as God stays at the center, everything else—children, crops, work—will be blessed. But when people place themselves in the center, things fall apart.” Obedience as the Condition for Blessing Zechariah 6:15 ends with a key phrase: “This shall come to pass if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God.” Pastor emphasized that: God's promises are certain, but our participation in them depends on obedience. Failure doesn't cancel grace—repentance restores relationship. David was contrasted with Saul: both sinned, but David repented, while Saul disregarded God's word and lost his kingdom. Willful disobedience—knowing God's command and ignoring it—invites discipline and loss. Practical Lessons — Zechariah 7 By Chapter 7, the teaching turned practical: People asked if they should continue fasting as before. God responded: “Did you fast for Me—or for yourselves?” Their rituals had become hollow habits. God desires obedience and sincerity over religious performance. Pastor quoted Samuel's reminder: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” The Heart of True Religion Zechariah 7:9–10 commands: “Execute true justice, show mercy and compassion, do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor, and let none of you plan evil against his brother.” Pastor expanded: When in doubt—have mercy, because “you're going to need it too.” God's longsuffering exceeds anything we could show others. Examples included the conversion of an abortion doctor and Joyce Meyer forgiving and caring for her abusive father—proof of the gospel's transforming power. True love does not ignore truth: “You don't have to compromise truth to love people; real love tells the truth.” The Danger of Refusal Israel's ancestors “stopped their ears” and “made their hearts like flint”, rejecting God's word. Pastor warned that when people repeatedly ignore God, He eventually allows them to experience the consequences of their choices. Cross-references included Proverbs 1:20–33 and 2 Thessalonians 2:10–12, showing how those who reject truth can fall into strong delusion. He cautioned America to heed this warning: “Our greatest danger isn't military or economic—it's turning our backs on God and Israel.” Closing Reflection God's mercy and truth work together. The goal is not religious performance but a surrendered, obedient life centered on God. The nation of Israel was restored through obedience; the same principle governs believers and nations today. Pastor closed in prayer, thanking God for His Word and declaring: “We love truth—even when it rebukes or corrects us—because the Spirit and the Word agree.” Core Takeaways Judgment is real, but so is grace. God must remain the center—life flourishes when we revolve around Him. Obedience outweighs ritual. Mercy triumphs over judgment. Truth without love is harsh; love without truth is hollow. A nation or believer that hardens its heart toward God risks losing His blessing.

Theme: Obedience, Trust, and Consecration — Lessons from Jericho and Ai Pastor Matthew continued his teaching series in the Book of Joshua, focusing on chapters 6 and 7—the fall of Jericho and the sin of Achan. The message contrasts the victory that comes through obedience with the defeat that follows disobedience. The Battle of Jericho — Obedience Brings Victory Text: Joshua 6 God commanded Joshua and the Israelites to march around Jericho once a day for six days and seven times on the seventh day, with seven priests blowing seven rams' horns before the Ark of the Covenant. Though God could have destroyed Jericho instantly, He required faithful obedience—teaching Israel to trust His word above their understanding. The people were instructed to remain completely silent until the final trumpet blast—a picture of disciplined obedience and dependence on God's timing. On the seventh day, after the final trumpet blast, the people shouted, and the walls of Jericho collapsed—a miraculous victory marking the Israelites' first conquest in the Promised Land. Key Lesson: Faith requires obedience even when instructions make no sense. The Israelites' victory came not by strength but by submission to God's word. The Principle of First fruits — The Tithe of Jericho Jericho represented the first fruits of the Promised Land; all spoils from the city were devoted to God as holy and untouchable. Joshua reminded the people that everything belongs to God, and the first portion of increase is His (Proverbs 3:9–10). This first conquest was to be fully dedicated to the Lord, symbolizing that everything that follows is blessed when the first portion is consecrated. God instructed that silver, gold, and bronze be placed in His treasury—no individual was to take from it. Application: The first belongs to God—whether it's time, talent, or treasure. Giving back to Him is not about pressure, but about trust and honor. The Fall at Ai — Disobedience Brings Defeat Text: Joshua 7 A man named Achan from the tribe of Judah secretly took a Babylonian garment, silver, and gold from Jericho, violating God's command. Because of this hidden sin, Israel was defeated at Ai, losing 36 men. Joshua fell before God in despair, questioning why the defeat happened, but God told him plainly: “Get up! Israel has sinned... They have stolen, deceived, and put it among their own stuff.” The nation's defeat was not due to lack of skill but due to sin in the camp. Until the accursed thing was removed, they could not stand before their enemies. Key Principle: Even private disobedience can bring corporate consequence. God's presence and power dwell with purity and obedience. The Judgment of Achan Achan confessed that he coveted and stole the forbidden items. He and his household were brought to the Valley of Achor (“trouble”) and were executed—serving as a solemn reminder that sin contaminates the whole body. The judgment restored Israel's standing before God and removed the curse from the camp. Spiritual Lesson: We must remove the “accursed things”—anything that dishonors God or competes with Him for first place in our lives. The Call to Generosity and Trust Pastor Matthew used the story of Achan to teach about honoring God with our resources: Tithing and giving predate the Law—first modeled by Abraham and Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18–20). Malachi 3:8–10 calls believers to “bring all the tithes into the storehouse” and test God's promise to open the windows of heaven. Luke 11:42 shows Jesus affirmed tithing while calling believers to practice it with justice and love. Hebrews 7:5–9 demonstrates that giving honors God across generations, as Levi was blessed through Abraham's obedience. He emphasized that giving is not about compulsion, but about faith and partnership with God's purpose. “You'll trust Him with your eternal salvation—why not trust Him with your finances?” Illustration: He shared a testimony of a man who began tithing in hardship and later prospered abundantly, learning firsthand that God honors faithfulness. Spiritual and National Lessons The defeat at Ai mirrors spiritual decline in modern times—a warning for America: great power and knowledge cannot replace obedience to God. Pastor urged believers to sanctify themselves and remove what is cursed—anything that keeps them from God's favor. He reminded that sin, disobedience, or misplaced loyalty (even cultural compromise) brings spiritual defeat, but repentance restores God's presence. Closing Application Check with God in everything—even after victory. Success can easily lead to complacency. Consecrate your life—make sure God is first in your time, finances, priorities, and heart. Trust God's Word, not your feelings. Faith grows when obedience is consistent. Remember that obedience brings blessing, while disobedience brings loss and distance from God. Core Takeaway Faith obeys when it doesn't understand. Victory requires consecration. Disobedience endangers everyone. God's power flows through purity, obedience, and trust.

Join Matt and Jake on Sabbath Lounge as they reflect on what happened at their Sukkot celebration — sharing family gatherings, meaningful new traditions, and timeless lessons from the Feast of Tabernacles. Together they explore the Gospel story behind the feast, uncovering deep spiritual truths found in Scripture and how they connect to the joy and meaning of Sukkot today. Watch to discover how faith, family, and biblical truth come together in this season of rejoicing.     #SabbathLounge #Sukkot #FeastOfTabernacles #BiblicalFeasts #TheGospelStory #FaithAndFamily #TorahLife     Find us on iTunes, Spotify, TikTok, and Podbean.   Gen 33:17 And Jacob journeyed to Succoth, and built him an house, and made booths for his cattle: therefore the name of the place is called Succoth. Root Word Suka The KJV translates Strong's H5521 in the following manner: tabernacle (12x), booth (11x), pavilion (5x), cottage (1x), covert (1x), tents (1x). thicket, covert, booth, thicket, booth (rude or temporary shelter) Plural Suka (Succoth) סוכות (succoth) broken down by letter: Samech, The root סכך (sakak) or שכך (sakak) speaks of the creation of a hedge of sorts from interwoven strands of sorts. It commonly describes how prickly branches interweave to create a defensive hedge to hide behind and to look intently out from     Jeremiah 35:5-10 5 Then I set cups and pitchers filled with wine in front of the family of Rechab. I said to them, “Drink some wine.”6 They answered, “We don't drink wine, because our ancestor Jonadab, Rechab's son, gave us this order: ‘You and your descendants must never drink wine. 7 Never build any houses or plant any fields or vineyards. You must never have any of these things. You must always live in tents so that you may live for a long time in the land where you are staying.' 8 We, along with our wives, sons, and daughters, have obeyed our ancestor Jonadab, Rechab's son, in everything he ordered us to do. We have never drunk wine, 9 built houses to live in, or owned vineyards, pastures, or grainfields. 10 We live in tents, and we have obeyed everything our ancestor Jonadab ordered us to do. 11 But when King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invaded this land, we said, ‘Let's go to Jerusalem to escape the Babylonian and Aramean armies.' That's why we are living in Jerusalem.” -Sucathites- A hedged in people From the root סכך(sakak), to weave a protection. Job 1:10 Names of God Bible 10 Haven't you put a protective fence around him, his home, and everything he has. You have blessed everything he does. His cattle have spread out over the land. Hosea 2:8 Names of God Bible 8 “She doesn't believe that I gave her grain, new wine, and olive oil.   I gave her plenty of silver and gold,  but she used it to make statues of Baal.   Ruth 3 Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, said to her, “My daughter, shouldn't I try to look for a home that would be good for you? 2 Isn't Boaz, whose young women you've been working with, our relative? He will be separating the barley from its husks on the threshing floor[a] tonight. 3 Freshen up, put on some perfume, dress up, and go down to the threshing floor. Don't let him know that you're there until he's finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, notice the place where he is lying. Then uncover his feet, and lie down there. He will make it clear what you must do.” 5 Ruth answered her, “I will do whatever you say.”   שוכתים- Verb סוך(suk) or סיך (syk) describes the administration of oil — apparently in the expectation that this would protect the recipient, since this two-faced verb may also be used to mean to hedge Noun אסוך ('asuk) means [oil-] flask. Noun מסכה (mesuka) means hedge and is obviously similar to משכה (mesukka) meaning hedge Ohel-The KJV translates Strong's H168 in the following manner: tabernacle(s) (198x), tent(s) (141x), dwelling (2x), place(s) (2x), covering (1x), home (1x). tent, nomad's tent, and thus symbolic of wilderness life, transience, dwelling, home, habitation, the sacred tent of Jehovah (the tabernacle) סוּךְ Transliteration sûḵ -Pronunciation-sook to anoint, pour in anointing (Qal) to anoint to anoint oneself to anoint (another) to be poured (Hiphil) to anoint   https://jacksontrailfarm.com/2025/10/05/gospelstoryofthefeast/   At Sabbath Lounge we are dedicated to eating clean, keeping the Feast, Sabbath, following Torah, and leading as many people out of Babylon as possible.   Find more information below:   www.sabbathlounge.com    https://linktr.ee/Sabbathlounge  

From Genesis to Geoengineering and the ancient law still controlling us connects Tesla's 3-6-9 sequence, the lost laws of the Elohim and the Babylonian debt system shaping our world today. Law, language and vibration form the invisible architecture of reality that can be bent for control. ☕ Buy a Double Espresso to Support Civilization Cycle Podcast

Ever wonder how God can work through imperfect people? Pastor Richard shares a powerful insight today, drawing from the Babylonians. They were used by God to fulfill His purposes, yet their ungodly actions weren't excused. It's a reminder that God can use anyone, even in their flaws, to accomplish His plans. You might be a vessel for His work, but being used by God doesn't give a free pass to live without righteousness.

In this jam-packed episode of Worldview Legacy, Joel Settecase explores the deep questions that define who we are and how we live. What does it mean to be made in the image of God? Why are young men in Gen Z facing a crisis of identity? And how do ancient flood myths from around the world support the Bible's historical truth?Joel begins with a moment of humble self-reflection, sharing why he took down a previous episode that didn't meet the Think Institute's high standards. Then he walks through the biblical case for why animals are not made in the image of God—and what makes human beings utterly unique in creation.You'll also hear Joel break down sobering new research on the identity crisis among Gen Z men, and how scripture engagement dramatically boosts confidence and purpose. Finally, he uncovers fascinating global flood legends—Aztec, Hindu, Chinese, and Babylonian—that actually confirm the biblical account rather than undermine it.In this episode, you'll learn:Why the Think Institute removed an episode about Pokémon and IsraelWhat it really means to be made in the image of GodWhy animals, though amazing, do not bear God's imageFrancis Schaeffer's powerful framework for understanding man vs. beastWhat's driving the Gen Z male identity crisis—and how to fix itHow knowing scripture transforms your view of yourselfWhy dozens of cultures around the world have similar flood storiesHow the Tower of Babel explains the spread of “myth”Why the biblical flood account is superior to all othersWhat Jesus and the apostles said about Noah's flood—and why it mattersTakeaways:You are not a beast. You are made in God's image.The Bible gives the clearest, truest picture of who you are.Identity isn't found in feelings—it's found in following Jesus Christ.The truth of scripture is not just spiritual—it's historical and global.Relevant Passages:Genesis 1:26–27, Psalm 139:13–14, 1 Corinthians 13:11, Proverbs 10:19, Romans 12:2, Matthew 24:37–39, 2 Peter 2:5Join the Hammer & Anvil SocietyIf you're ready to stop drifting and start building your life on the truth, join the discipleship community for men who want to lead in faith, family, and worldview.

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Unearthing Love: Discoveries in Babylon's Ancient Ruins Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2025-10-27-07-38-20-ja Story Transcript:Ja: バビロンの古代街の遺跡に、秋の金色の太陽が輝いていました。En: In the ruins of the ancient city of Babylon, the golden autumn sun was shining brightly.Ja: 石のジッグラトや道が、長い過去の物語をささやいています。En: Stone ziggurats and roads whispered stories of a long past.Ja: 石が積まれた発掘現場は、昔と今を混ぜ合わせるように影を落としていました。En: The archeological site, with its layers of stones, cast shadows mixing the past and present.Ja: ここに、日本から来た情熱的な考古学者・ハルトと彼の同僚みゆがいました。En: Here were Japan's passionate archeologist Haru and his colleague Miyu.Ja: ハルトは古代文明に夢中になっていました。En: Haru was fascinated with ancient civilizations.Ja: 特に、バビロンの文化がどのように社会を形作ったのかを知りたがっていました。En: Particularly, he was eager to understand how the culture of Babylon shaped its society.Ja: 彼の目標は、画期的な発見をして、自分の理論を証明することでした。En: His goal was to make groundbreaking discoveries and prove his theories.Ja: ある日、ナオという別の発掘チームの考古学者がハルトのキャンプにやってきました。En: One day, another archaeologist named Nao from a different excavation team came to Haru's camp.Ja: 彼女はハルトの情熱と知識に興味を持ちました。En: She was intrigued by Haru's passion and knowledge.Ja: ナオは仕事に対する献身と、ハルトへの興味の間で心が揺れていました。En: Nao felt torn between her dedication to her work and her interest in Haru.Ja: 時間と資源が限られている中で、ハルトの理論は周囲から懐疑的に見られていました。En: With limited time and resources, Haru's theories were met with skepticism from those around him.Ja: それにもかかわらず、彼は自分の直感を信じ、反対する声を押し切ってある場所を掘る決心をしました。En: Despite this, he trusted his intuition and decided to excavate a specific location, pushing through the opposing voices.Ja: ナオは、その彼の勇気に触発されました。En: Nao was inspired by his courage.Ja: そして、彼と一緒に掘ることにしました。En: She decided to dig alongside him.Ja: それはプロとしての批判を受けるリスクがありましたが、彼女は心を決めました。En: Although it risked professional criticism, she made up her mind.Ja: ハルトとナオは、ついにすばらしい発見をしました。En: Haru and Nao finally made a remarkable discovery.Ja: それは、古代バビロンのタブレットのセットでした。En: It was a set of ancient Babylonian tablets.Ja: そのタブレットは、ハルトの理論を裏付けるものでした。En: These tablets supported Haru's theory.Ja: 考古学のコミュニティの注目を集め、二人にプロフェッショナルな称賛をもたらしました。En: They drew attention from the archaeological community and earned both of them professional acclaim.Ja: この発見を通して、ハルトは自分の直感に自信を持ち始め、人間関係にも心を開くことができました。En: Through this discovery, Haru began to trust his intuition and opened his heart to human relationships.Ja: ナオは、自分の仕事に対する献身と人間関係の価値をバランスよく考えることを学びました。En: Nao learned to balance her dedication to her work and the value of personal connections.Ja: 二人の絆は深まり、発掘現場での共有した挑戦と思い出が彼らを結びつけました。En: Their bond deepened, as the shared challenges and memories from the excavation site brought them closer.Ja: こうして、バビロンの古代の遺跡の中で、ハルトとナオの物語が新たに始まりました。En: Thus, amid the ancient ruins of Babylon, the story of Haru and Nao began anew.Ja: 秋のそよ風が、静かに二人の成功と未来を祝福しているかのようでした。En: The autumn breeze seemed to quietly celebrate their success and future. Vocabulary Words:ruins: 遺跡ancient: 古代ziggurats: ジッグラトwhispered: ささやいてarcheological site: 発掘現場shadows: 影fascinated: 夢中civilizations: 文明society: 社会groundbreaking: 画期的なdiscoveries: 発見skepticism: 懐疑intuition: 直感excavate: 掘るopposing: 反対するcourage: 勇気criticism: 批判remarkable: すばらしいtablets: タブレットsupported: 裏付けるacclaim: 称賛human relationships: 人間関係dedication: 献身balance: バランスbond: 絆challenges: 挑戦success: 成功future: 未来passionate: 情熱的colleague: 同僚

In this episode of Nephilim Death Squad, the crew dives deep with Stephen of Biblical Hitmen to uncover the spiritual mechanics behind Mystery Babylon, the divine feminine, Luciferian doctrine, and modern Gnosticism. From the Tower of Babel to the infiltration of the Church, this conversation exposes how ancient Babylonian mysticism, Eastern mysticism, and Hollywood's obsession with the “Divine Feminine” intertwine in our world today. Stephen shares a chilling personal experience tied to his research into Mystery Babylon and discusses the spiritual warfare facing today's believers. The squad unpacks Gnosticism, the Demiurge, Sophia, and the merging of faith with political movements like Christian nationalism and new age theology. Filmed live from The Standard Coffee Shop, this one bridges theology, history, and supernatural warfare in a way only NDS can. Watch the full uncut episode + live aftershow on Patreon:

Daniel was an exceptional young man—intelligent, wise and spiritually attuned to the will and ways of God. He was an asset to the King of Babylon, who sought to use him for the purposes of his kingdom. However, Daniel did not waver in his faith and remained steadfast in his convictions to not follow the Babylonian ways, choosing not to eat the ‘royal food.' He knew what was at stake. Daniel had integrity and great courage (even shrewdness), and God was faithful to honor Daniel's loyalty.There is no compartmentalization for those who are in Christ, though we may often live like there is. This message challenges us with the question: Is He truly “Lord of All” in my life? And do I live like He is? 

Malachi 2:10-16 We are continuing in the book of Malachi. This morning we'll be covering chapter 2 verses10-16. Please turn there. You can find it on page 954 in the pew Bible. This is our fourth of eight sermons in Malachi. It's a short book. It only has 4 chapters, but as you have seen already, it packs a punch. Malachi's prophecy began with a reminder of God's electing love for Israel. But then God turns to the ways in which they have been unfaithful in response. The overall theme of the book is God's faithfulness and Israel's unfaithfulness. And we will see that clearly in our text this morning. The people were demonstrating a lack of faith in God because of unfaithfulness in their marriages. Reading of Malachi 2:10-16 Prayer There is one relationship in life that is more important than any other. This relationship requires dedication. It's a relationship built on forgiveness. It's one where if you are not seeking to honor the one with whom you are in this relationship with, then you will struggle. Your path will be filled with difficulty. This relationship is that important. I'm talking about your relationship with the Lord. Some of you probably thought that I was going to say, “your relationship with your spouse.” Right? After all, a marriage relationship is critically important. But your relationship with the Lord is more important. It's tempting to see our text this morning as only applying to marriage. After all, it has plenty to say about marriage, and we're going to get there. However, this passage is ultimately about your faith in the creator God. So, whether you are married or not, you are directed to draw near to the Lord by faith. I don't know if you noticed it, but the word “faithless” is used here 5 times. Look at verse 10. After asking a couple of rhetorical questions, which we'll get to, it says, “why then are we faithless to one another.” Then immediately in verse 11. “Judah has been faithless.” Judah was the southern kingdom which was exiled, some of whom had returned. So in other words, God was calling them faithless. Now go down to verse 14. In the middle there it says, “…the Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless.” That is repeated at the end of 15. “Let none of you be faithless to the wife of your youth.” In those instances, it is faithless to their spouse. And finally, this passage ends with this, “so guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not be faithless.” So, faithless. Their faithless actions and faithlessness in their marriages, displayed a faithlessness before God. To give a little structure this morning, we'll consider this in 4 points. 1. Faithless before a Faithful God (2:10–11a) 2. Faithless with a Faithless Bride (2:11b–12) 3. Faithless to a Faithful Bride (2:13–16) 4. Faithful despite a Faithless Bride Those may be hard to remember, but they are printed there on page 4. 1. Faithless before a Faithful God (2:10–11a) So again, #1, Faithless before a faithful God. Verse 10 and the first half of verse 11 begin by emphasizing their covenant relationship with God and therefore with one another. The two questions there in 10 direct them to God. Malachi asks “Have we not all one Father? Has not one God created us?” They already know the answer. Yes, he is God their Father. Yes, they are his children. And yes, he is their creator. Those questions are to remind them of who God is;  who they are; and the centrality of his relationship with them. You see, before God speaks into the tangled mess of their marriage relationships, he first directs them to himself. He also directs them to one another. That is because their faithless actions not only reflected their faithlessness before God. But it also reflected on their faithlessness with one another. In other words, because they were in a covenant relationship with God together, anyone who broke that covenant with God, was being faithlessness toward one another. And anyone breaking the covenant with one another, was being faithless before God. By the way, we are going to get very practical in just a couple of minutes. But before we get there, it's critical to first understand why breaking the covenant was an act of faithlessness. It says that by their actions, they were “profaning the covenant.” That's  a strong statement Let me say a couple things about it: ·      The reference to covenant here includes the promises that God made to Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David. God established a relationship with them as his people. He called them to be his. He gave them his law. He promised them a kingdom and that they would be a people as numerous as the sands of the sea. They were set apart by the God of all creation. It was a beautiful thing. ·      But they “profaned” the covenant relationship. They profaned it because they were dishonoring God by violating the relationship that he had established with them. They had been breaking his commands. Rather than acting in faith, some had been rejecting the covenant promises that God had given them. So, it was serious. That's why it says in 11 that they had been faithless. They had been faithless to God and faithless to one another. Now, I want to say one more thing before we get to the heart of this passage about marriage. In the middle of verse 11 it says that they profaned the “sanctuary of the Lord.” At the heart of the word translated “sanctuary” is the word set apart. Some believe this is a reference to God's covenant people. They were profaning one another. And I think that's right. It goes along with two things. First, verse 10 had just said that they were faithless to one another. And second, immediately after saying they had profaned the sanctuary, it says, “which he loves.” Remember from the opening verses of chapter 1. God loves his people. In summary, their sin broke faith with God and with one another. Sometimes we don't think about that. Our sin is not only a sin against God it is sin against the covenant community. No matter our sin, it affects the community, sometimes in a more direct way, which we will see here, or sometimes indirectly. Either way, it was breaking fellowship with God and with one another. Ok, then, but what was it? What sin had they committed which was an abomination to God and which was faithless to one another? Well, they had been violating God's sacred establishment of covenant marriage. They were violating it in two ways: First, many had been marrying people outside of the covenant. And second, many had been unlawfully divorcing their spouses. 2. Faithless with a Faithless Bride (2:11b–12) Which brings us to points 2 and 3 about those two things. About unholy marriage and unlawful divorce. Point 2 is this: Faithless with a Faithless Bride. They were being covenantally unfaithful because they were marrying outside of the faith. Right there at the end of 11. They had “married the daughter of a foreign God.” Verse 12 points the finger at some men who were doing this When the exiles were in Babylon, all around them were not just Babylonians but also other nations that Babylon had conquered and brought to Babylon. The temptation was to intermarry with those outside of God's covenant people. But even when they were back in Jerusalem, there were now people from other kingdoms. Part of the temptation was marrying into the people group who was in control in order to improve their plight. Now, whether it was just an attraction to someone outside of the covenant community or whether it was for economic gain, either way, it was an abomination, as God says. And let me be very clear. This is not about race. There is nothing in the Bible that prohibits marriage between people from different ethnic backgrounds or people groups. Rather, this is about marrying outside of God's covenant community. That is very clear at the end of verse 11, “the daughter of a foreign God.” Plus, we have several examples of women who were originally outside of God's covenant community, but who became part of the covenant, and then married an Israelite. Think of Ruth. Ruth was a Moabite woman who was joined the covenant community and then married Boaz. Rahab is another example. She was a Cannanite, whom God spared from the destruction of Jericho because of her faith. She married Salmon. The admonition for us is to only marry someone who shares our faith in Christ. Let me take a moment to speak to those of you who are not married – young and old. Not everyone is called to be married. The apostle Paul wasn't married, and he makes it clear that there are blessings to being single. But many of you have the desire to be married. Younger kids, I want to make sure you are listening as well. Marriage may be far from your mind right now. You may be thinking “eww, marriage.”  But that will likely change. So, listen as well. If you decide to get married, the most important thing is to marry someone who shares your faith in Christ. It's God's command to marry in the Lord. The world says that love is not a choice. It says that when love finds you, no matter with whom, you cannot say “no.” But don't buy the lie. Don't mix up attraction with love. Love is a choice. Yes, you should be attracted to someone you want to marry, but that person needs to share your faith and commitment to your Lord and Savior. There is no such thing as missionary dating. Do you hear me? You are playing with fire if you are dating someone who you think you can win over to Christ. It's the Holy Spirit job to change someone's heart. Don't go there. The most important relationship you have is with the Lord and if you can't share that with your spouse, it is difficult and comes with consequences. I know several godly people who are married to unbelievers, and they would confirm that struggle. Sometimes that happens because one spouse comes to faith in Christ after getting married. Praise the Lord. If that happens, the struggle is still there. If you are in that situation, stay married. As the Scriptures say, so that you may win over your spouse. But sometimes someone young in his or her faith marries an unbeliever. It's only later that the person realizes the sin of it and how difficult it is. God forgives and he helps. If that is you, stay married and continue to pray for your unbelieving spouse to believe. And we will pray along with you. But for those of you who are not married, I plead with you, if you marry, marry a Godly man or woman who loves the Lord and his Word. Not just someone who says they are a Christian, but someone who demonstrates their faith and Love for the Lord. These verses are saying that marrying outside of God's covenant community demonstrates faithlessness. The consequences are difficult. 3. Faithless to a Faithful Bride (2:13–16) Which brings us to the other thing that they were doing. Many were unlawfully divorcing their spouses. This is point 3. Faithless to a Faithful Bride. As we already saw, twice it mentions unfaithfulness to the wife of their youth. These men had made a covenant commitment to these women, yet they were walking away from their marriages. We're not told, but perhaps some of them were the ones who then married outside of the covenant community. Before I go on, I want to be sensitive to the burdens and pain in this room from past marriages. Some of you have endured difficult marriages that have failed. Perhaps your marriage failed because of your own sin or perhaps your spouse's or perhaps both of you. Whatever the situation, it's hard and there's often relational fallout beyond the breaking of that marriage covenant. But I want you to know that God is merciful and forgiving. As you look back and either recognize your own complicity or you feel the hurt of being sinned against, know that God forgives and ministers his grace. To be sure, God's mercy and forgiveness is never to be a justification for an unbiblical divorce. The Scriptures are clear about divorce. Jesus spoke of divorce being permissible when sexual infidelity has occurred. Elsewhere abandonment is included. I would include abuse as a form of abandonment. These grievous sins are the only grounds for divorce. What was happening in Jerusalem is that marriages were being annulled because a spouse no longer cared to be married. And because of it, God no longer heard them or received their offerings, verse 13. They were weeping because of God not receiving them. It was not a godly grief that led to repentance, but rather just a groaning because of the consequences. In verse 14, they ask, “why has he not?” Why does God no longer accept us? By the way, this is the Malachi pattern, remember. They were reaping the consequences of their sin but didn't acknowledge their sin. And so the hammer drops again. Two weeks ago the hammer dropped on their polluted offerings. Last week it dropped on the corrupt priests. And here, it's back to the people, some of whom were faithless by divorcing their spouses without warrant. But they had made a covenant with their spouse. The Lord was a witness to that covenant commitment. And look at verse 15. “Did he [that is, God] not make them one, with a portion of the Spirit in their union?” They were united to one another in marriage. It's a reference back to Genesis 1. God was actively present in bringing about that oneness. So by abandoning their marriage, they were abandoning God. And not only that, they were abandoning God's call for them to raise their children to know the Lord. As the middle of 15 says, God desires “Godly offspring.” It would be a downward spiral of faithless future generations. Now, not every husband or wife was walking away from their marriage. But even some who were still married were considering divorce. We know that because it says, “guard yourself in your spirit and let none of you BE faithless.” The verse before said some of them “have been faithless.” In other words, for the ones who were still in their covenant marriage, they were to guard their hearts and minds against going down the path of divorce. And, actually, did you notice that the phrase, “guard yourself in your spirit” is used twice. Once in verse 15 and second in verse 16. Ok, let me now speak to those who are married. Some of your marriages are struggling. And I probably only know the half of it. Every marriage has its ups and downs, but some marriages have acute struggles for a variety of reasons. And it is hard. What is supposed to be the most intimate relationship on earth, is sometimes fraught with tension and mistrust and heartache because of current sin or past sin... which can lead to more sin and cause more tension and more mistrust and more heartache. If that is you, I want to say two things: 1. As it says here, “guard yourself in your spirit.” Do not let yourself wander to thoughts of divorce. Don't let go of the covenant that you made to your spouse. Pursue your spouse again. Recommit yourself to your marriage. There's a warning here of faithlessness if you pursue unbiblical divorce. So, guard your thoughts and your heart. 2. Number 2. There is help and there is hope. There is not a single elder here unwilling to help if your marriage is struggling. Please reach out. I will meet with you and pray with you, multiple times if necessary. We can also find help outside of our church if you would be more comfortable with that. But please reach out. If you do not think your marriage needs help, but your spouse does, let me encourage you to honor and listen to your spouse. Set aside whatever is preventing you from getting help. And do not lose hope. We serve a God who is in the business of forgiving and reconciling. The forgiveness and reconciliation that he gives you, individually, is the basis for forgiveness and reconciliation in you marriage. 4. Faithful despite a Faithless Bride Which is a nice transition to point 4. Faithful despite a Faithless Bride I'm not talking about a marriage between a man and a woman here. I am talking about the marriage between Christ and his church. Despite the unfaithfulness of God's people, his bride, God has remained faithful. The marriage paradigm is the pattern that God uses all throughout Scripture to convey his faithfulness despite our unfaithfulness. And this goes all the way back to the garden of Eden. When Adam and Eve sinned against God, when they ate of the forbidden fruit, their sin was spiritual adultery. They had been in a covenant relationship with God. He promised them life, but they turned against his promise of blessing and instead ate that which was forbidden. That spiritual adultery theme continues throughout the Scriptures. God's people were betrothed to God, but they forsook his name and committed spiritual adultery against him by going after other so-called gods from the surrounding nations. But as we read in Hosea 2 earlier in the service, despite the people's unfaithfulness, God promised that he would be faithful. He promised to be their husband who would protect and lead them in righteousness and justice. They would once again be called his people and they would call him their God. This is the pattern over and over in the Old Testament. The people forgot the Lord. They acted in adulterous ways like the people here in Jerusalem. Yet God was merciful… and just like here, he called them back to himself. And the climax of this marriage paradigm in Scripture… is found in Christ. He not only sought his bride, the church, but as we read earlier in Ephesians 5, he died for her. There is no greater love. He sanctifies and cleanses her. By giving his church his righteousness, Christ presents her pure and spotless. SO not only is he faithful despite her unfaithfulness, he makes her faithful. And he nourishes and cherishes her and leads her. And all of that will come to full fruition when he returns for the consummation of the great spiritual wedding. He will usher his people, his bride, into the wedding supper of the Lamb forever. Beloved, this is the reason that marriage is sacred. Marriage on earth is patterned after the union between God and his people. It is why a Christian should only marry a Christian. It is why God hates divorce. It is why those who are married should fight for their marriage and not against it. It is why in a marriage relationship you should love and forgive just as Christ loved you and forgave you. It is why a husband has been called to be the spiritual leader in his marriage and home. It is a sacrificial leading. Again, as Ephesians 5 said, husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church and died for her. The people in Jerusalem didn't have this full picture, yet. They didn't yet know of what was to come. But as we will find out in these next 2 chapters, God is going to lift the curtain and give them a glimpse of what was soon to come for them. In the meantime, they were to return in faith to God by returning in faithfulness to their covenant marriages. For those who desire one day to be married, seek Godly spouses by faith in Christ. And for those who are married, pursue and love our spouses because God has pursued and loved you. For all of us, may we see the beauty and wonder of our bridegroom, Christ. And because of his love and faithfulness to us, may we seek to be faithful in return to him.  

Two ancient empires, Assyria and Babylon, repeatedly opposed God's people in the Old Testament, each representing different forms of evil. Assyria was a brutal war machine that loved violence and conquest, destroying the northern kingdom of Israel in 722 BC and scattering the ten tribes. Babylon, in contrast, was a sophisticated cultural center that prided itself on achievements like the Hanging Gardens, but their true danger lay in their arrogant self-sufficiency and belief that they were the center of the cosmos. While Assyria represents obvious evil through cruelty and violence, Babylon symbolizes the more subtle temptation of pride, cultural sophistication, and materialism. Both empires ultimately fell due to their opposition to God, teaching us that evil comes in different forms and that we must guard against both obvious sins and subtle pride in our own lives.https://www.ankenyfree.church

A Sermon for the Nineteenth Sunday after Trinity St. Matthew 9:1-8 by William Klock In our Gospel St. Matthew writes that “Jesus got into the boat and crossed back over to his own town.”  Back to Capernaum.  From the far side of the Sea of Galilee.  From that place where he'd been confronted by a man filled with demons and cast those demons into a herd of pigs.  You know the story.  The demon-possessed pigs promptly stampeded into the sea and drowned themselves.  And that left the pig farmer and the local townspeople none too pleased with Jesus.  They pleaded with him to leave.  So he and the disciples got back into their boat and sailed across the Sea of Galilee.  And now he's back home in Capernaum.  Matthew's version of this story is the shortest on details.  Mark's version implies that Jesus was tired.  He went home to get a break from the crowds and it took a few days before anyone realised that he was home.  But when they figured it out, the crowds were back.  Before he knew it, they'd let themselves into his house and he was preaching.  It was mostly just ordinary people, but there were some scribes and Pharisees there in that packed and crowded room.  They had to keep an eye—or an ear—on Jesus. And that crowd posed a problem to four friends.  They had a fifth friend who was paralysed.  When they heard Jesus was back in town, these four men went and got their friend and carried him, cot and all, to Jesus' house.  Jesus was healing everybody else.  Surely he would heal their friend.  If they could get to him.  And they couldn't.  I can imagine them trying.  Asking politely if people might get out of the way.  Looking to see if maybe they could squeeze through a back door or a window, then going back and trying to push some people aside to get to the front door—all to no avail.  There was no way they'd ever get their friend into that house.  And that's when they had an idea.  The roof!  In those days, in that place, roofs were flat—they served as extra living space when it was hot and you needed to get out into a cooling breeze—but more importantly, roofs were made of rush and palms plastered between beams.  So these men take their friend to the roof and they start jabbing at the roof with sticks and kicking at it with their heels and pulling it apart with their hands, until they'd made a hole big enough to lower their friend down to Jesus. Now imagine Jesus, in the house, preaching to the crowd while that was going on upstairs.  Loud scratching and thumping.  And pretty soon bits of plaster and rush start falling.  Before too long there's a hole in the roof and everyone sees these guys looking down—probably a little sheepishly.  I wonder what went through Jesus' mind.  He was tired.  His rest had been cut short.  The crowd was one thing, but he really didn't need some yahoos tearing up his roof.  “Great!  There goes the damage deposit,” he's thinking to himself.  But pretty quickly, as they lowered their friend to him, he saw what was going on.  And I think Jesus smiled. Why?  Because Matthew writes that Jesus saw their faith and if Jesus was anything like me and most of the other pastors I know, the exhaustion, the frustration of not having a break, the annoyance at having these guys destroy his roof, I think it all would have melted away, because seeing the faith of these men made it all worth it.  And looking down at the paralyzed man, Jesus says to him, “Have courage!”  Take heart!  In other words, “Don't be afraid.”  Because I imagine some people might be afraid if their friends just tore a hole in the Messiah's roof to get them inside.  Because even if Jesus was smiling, the people around him were looking shocked and outraged and angry.  “How dare you dig a hole in the Messiah's roof!”  And so Jesus looks at him and says, “Your sins are forgiven!” Now, that's not what we might expect Jesus to say to this man.  Judging by Jesus' other encounters, we'd expect him to say something like, “Get up and walk; your faith has made you well.”  But instead, he tells the paralysed man that his sins are forgiven.  That's nice, but he's still lying there paralysed on his cot.  So why would Jesus say, “Your sins are forgiven”?  Brothers and Sisters, Jesus found a teaching moment in everything.  He'd healed people more times than anyone could count at that point, and that was a sign that the Messiah had come and that God's kingdom was breaking into the world.  But what did that really mean?  Well, remember that everyone had their own ideas about the Messiah and about the kingdom—and, most important, how they could have a share in it.  The people needed more than just to see miracles.  They needed to know more than that the Messiah had come; they desperately needed to know what the Messiah had come to do.  Jesus saw that group of scribes there in his house that day and saw a perfect opportunity.  Maybe they were legitimately curious to hear what Jesus had to say or maybe they were there just to criticise or report back to the priests or the Pharisees, but, right on cue, they hear Jesus' words—“Your sins are forgiven”—and he can see their outrage.  He could see how they scowled as they grumbled to each other about how blasphemous this was.  “Who can forgive sins except God?” they howled in Mark's telling of the story. Just as Jesus could see the faith of the paralysed man's friends as they lowered him through the hole in his roof, he could see the opposite in the grumbling scribes.  And so he asks them, “Why are your hearts so intent on evil?”  Of course, that just made them angrier.  “We're not the evil ones!” they say back.  “You are…you…you…you blasphemer!”  But Jesus goes on with the teaching moment and says to them, “Which is easier to say, “Your sins are forgiven,” or to say, “Get up and walk?”  But so that you may know that the son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—and now he turns back to the paralysed man—“Get up, take up your cot, and go home.” And the paralysed man got up, took up his cot, and went home.  I think there was probably a little more to it than that.  He probably stretched a bit and moved his arms and legs around and maybe jumped up and down a few times.  I think he probably laughed and yelled and gave a hug and many thanks to Jesus, but Matthew doesn't get bogged down in those sorts of details, because his point is—as usual—that when Jesus healed the man, he was healed.  There was no struggle or delay.  This was the same word God spoke in the beginning when he said, “Let there be light!” and there was light.  When Jesus told the man to get up, to take his cot, and to go home, that's exactly what the man did.  In Jesus, God's new creation had come.  And if that's all that had happened, the scribes would have had nothing to complain about. What really stuck in their craw was Jesus declaring the man's sins forgiven.  That made them mad.  Even for the Messiah, as far as they were concerned, that was too big a claim.  To heal the paralysed man?  That was good.  But if he had sins to forgive, his friends should have taken him to the temple in Jerusalem for that.  The priests there were the only ones with the authority to offer sacrifices for sin and to declare someone reconciled to God.  But the crowd understood and Matthew makes a point of saying that the crowd was afraid—afraid in the sense that they were awestruck by what had happened and knew that somehow and in some way the God of Israel was at work in and through Jesus—as if they'd just witnesses one of those great and awe-inspiring events from the Old Testament that no one in Israel had seen in a thousand years.  Matthew says they saw what had happened and that they praised God for giving such authority to men. The story is sort of the whole gospel story in a nutshell.  Jesus teaches and he heals—he does the things the Messiah was supposed to be doing.  He even foreshadows the resurrection when he tells the man to “get up”—or better to “Rise up!”  That's resurrection language.  This is what Jesus promises for everyone who trusts in him: He forgives our sins, he raises us to new life, and he invites us home—to live as his new creation in the presence of God.  But as far as the scribes and Pharisees were concerned, Jesus did all this the wrong way and that made it blasphemy. But Jesus wasn't worried about that.  You know when you're accused of something bad by someone and you just want to say, “Man, look in the mirror!”  Or that old thing your parents used to tell you when someone insulted you, “Consider the source.”  Or that line from a certain cartoon character, “Your boos mean nothing to me; I've seen what makes you cheer.”  Jesus flips around the accusation.  He exposes the wickedness in the hearts of those scribes and he does it for everyone to see.  He discredits them and their accusations.  He leaves them fuming.  You can imagine their red faces and how their mouths are moving, but they can't say anything.  And Jesus is left standing there full of authority and life and power. I wonder if this teachable moment popped into Jesus' head as the plaster rained down on him and the man was lowered through the hole.  The paralytic probably had an apologetic look on his face—like, “I'm really sorry, Jesus, for the hole in your roof.  Please forgive me and my friends.”  And Jesus realised that this was the perfect moment to say something about forgiveness—because this man and his friends and, in fact, all of Israel, that's what they really needed: forgiveness, not for making a hole in his roof, but for far more serious sins—for idolatry and for greed and for faithlessness and for all the ways they'd failed to live out their covenant with the Lord.  Israel needed a lot of things—just like the paralysed man did—but most of all she needed forgiveness.  In that, the paralysed man represents Israel and all her wrong expectations of the Messiah.  The Jews wanted the Messiah to solve all their problems.  For some that was healing sickness, for others it was casting out demons, for some it was getting everybody to keep the law better, and for others it was bashing Roman heads and destroying the pagan gentiles.  But not very many people understood that none of these things was the real problem.  The real problem was sin.  Sin is why the world is in the mess it's in.  Sin was why Israel was estranged from God.  The people had been unfaithful to the Lord.  He'd called them to be light in the darkness, but they'd hid their light under a basket.  More than anything else, they needed forgiveness, because forgiveness is the start; it's what paves the way for everything else to be set to rights.  Forgiveness is the way to new creation. I think that's the part of the story that gets most of our attention.  But notice that what Matthew puts at the heart of this story isn't the healing or the announcement of forgiveness.  The heart of the story is Jesus statement that the son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins and then the response of the people.  We miss this because we're not thinking like First Century Jews.  When Jesus calls himself the “son of man”, he's drawing on an image from Daniel 7.  The book of Daniel is about faithfulness in the midst of exile.  Israel had been defeated and the people taken off to Babylon. Worse, some like Daniel, were pressured to compromise, to bow to a pagan king and to pagan gods—to give up on the God of Israel and to give up on his promises.  And some did just that.  But Daniel stood firm and the Lord gave him a vision of those pagan kings cast down, of the God of Israel taking his throne, and the son of man “coming with the clouds of heaven…to be given dominion and glory and kingship, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him” (Daniel 7:13-14).  And yet, when Daniel asks what the vision means, he is told that this kingship and dominion “shall be given”—not to a single person, but “to the people, the holy ones of the Most High; their kingdom shall be an everlasting kingdom and all dominions shall serve and obey them” (Daniel 7:27). The son of man in Daniel's vision was a symbol for the faithful remnant of God's people—for those who stood firm in their faith in the God of Israel, who remembered his covenant, and who refused to bow to pagan gods and kings.  So when Jesus referred to himself as the son of man, this is what the scribes (and everyone else) would have been thinking of.  And this is why Matthew says at the end that the people praised God that this authority has been given not to a man—Jesus—but to men, plural.  Because up to this point, Daniel's vision had yet to be fulfilled.  The Maccabees, for example, had claimed to be that faithful remnant, but their kingdom didn't last.  The people who were that faithful remnant—people like Zechariah and Elizabeth and Mary and Joseph and Simeon and Anna, although they were probably too humble to actually claim being the faithful remnant—people like them knew all too well that the Lord had yet to grant them anything like authority and dominion.  That's what Mary's song, the one we call the Magnificat, is all about.  But here Jesus identifies himself with that vision.  In him the son of man is finally being granted that authority and dominion—that kingship that everyone thought of in connection with God's kingdom and the world finally being set to rights—and Jesus isn't just saying it or claiming it.  He proves it when he tells the paralysed man to get up, take his bed, and go home.  For the people there that day, this was bigger than just the Messiah.  Jesus could claim to be the “son of man”, but the son of man wasn't just one person, the son of man represented the whole faithful remnant in Israel.  We need to grasp the enormous hope embodied in those words of Jesus about the son of man.  It's not just Jesus who will take his throne.  He will.  But that he will take his throne also means that all the faithful will be vindicated as their enemies are cast down, and that they will finally share in that God-given authority and dominion.  So the people in crowded in Jesus' house that day recognised that in Jesus the Messiah, God's kingdom had finally come and that they would be part of it—not just as subject, but as kings and queens themselves.  Or to borrow from C. S. Lewis, the day was coming when these sons of Adam and daughters of Eve would once again take their rightful place in creation set to rights. This makes sense of another passage that often confuses people.  Twice Jesus said to his disciples “whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven”.  The first is in Matthew 16, after Jesus praises Peter for his confession, “You are the Messiah, the son of the living God”.  Jesus says to him and the others, “I will give you the keys of heaven”.  And in Matthew 18, in that passage about what we call “church discipline” and dealing with an unrepentant person, he repeats this statement about binding and loosing.  This is all “son of man” stuff.  Jesus isn't giving special authority to Peter alone because he's going to be the first pope.  In fact, he's not giving any special authority just to the apostles.  No, this is a gospel authority given to all of the faithful remnant, to everyone who by faith identifies with the Messiah.  This is a people who are not only given dominion or kingship—to rule alongside the Messiah—but who also share in his role as prophet and priest.  That's what this binding and loosing language is about.  As prophets, Jesus' people were to speak out against the sins of Israel and to rebuke her faithlessness, and as priests they were called to mediate the saving, the forgiving message of the gospel to the nation—and eventually to the whole world. This was good news and it explains why the crowds wouldn't give Jesus a break.  Israel's scriptures were full of promises, but so many of them had yet to be fulfilled.  Promises like Daniel's vision of the son of man.  Promises of forgiveness and of restoration and of dominion and authority.  Time and again, things would happen and people would think, “Oh!  This is it!”  But it never quite happened.  The remnant returned from their Babylonian exile, but things were never as they had been.  The Maccabees defeated the Greeks and established Judah's independence.  And for a little while it looked like the Lord's promises were on track to be fulfilled.  And then it all fell apart.  But the people knew that the Lord is faithful.  Time and again he had shown his faithfulness in Israel's past and they knew he would be faithful in their future.  Every year they ate the Passover and remembered the Lord's promises and looked forward in hopeful anticipation.  And now, here was Jesus, and he was actually doing the things the Lord had promised and he was doing them like no one had before.  They had faith.  They would be forgiven, their enemies would be cast down, and the faithful remnant—who were now gathering around Jesus the Messiah—in them the people of God would be restored and made new and would be the people the Lord had promised—a people full of his life and a people for the life of the world—prophets, priests, and kings.  The sons of Adam and the daughters of Eve would be forgiven their sins and would take their thrones and all would once again be right with the world.  This was good news! And Brothers and Sisters, this is still good news for us—maybe even more than it was for the people crammed in Jesus house that day.  In Jesus we see the faithfulness of God.  They were still looking forward in anticipation, but we can look back and see the whole picture and how Jesus fulfilled the Lord's promises and that ought to strengthen our faith and ought to give us reason to look forward to our future in hope, knowing that what God has begun in Jesus he will surely finish.  The world is often dark, we can feel small and alone, sometimes it feels like we're fighting a losing battle, but we can look back and see what the Lord has done and trust that he is faithful.  He always has been and he always will be. And this is good news because it tells us who we are.  I think that too often we look at passages like this, where Jesus talks about himself as the son of man and we forget that it's not just telling us something about Jesus.  The son of man represents a whole people.  Because Jesus has fulfilled the role of the son of man, that means that we his people, through our union with him, we have been caught up in that son of man identity, too.  Jesus has been given power and authority and dominion forever, and you and I share that with him.  It's authority to live and to proclaim the good news that he has died, that he has risen, and that he has come again and that he brings forgiveness and life.  And it's also the authority to speak as prophets to the world, to call out sin, to remind the world that the Lord will come in judgement to cleanse his creation, and to call men and women to repentance.  And hand in hand with that role, we have the authority of priests.  We're not only prophets, but priests, mediating the good news of Jesus and the life of God's spirit—mediating the redemption Jesus has made at the cross—to a sick world, desperately in need of forgiveness and life. Brothers and Sisters, think about that as you come to the Lord's Table this morning.  The bread and the wine reminds us of the forgiveness and the life and the hope we find at the cross, but they should also remind us who we are in Jesus.  We are Daniel's son-of-man people.  We are prophets, priests, and kings and we have been made so for the life of the world.  Seeing the faithfulness of God revealed in Jesus ought to move us—like the people that day in Jesus' house—to give God glory and there is no better way to glorify him than to be the people he has made us in Jesus and the Spirit, a people who live and proclaim his good news so that the world might see and know his faithfulness and give him glory. Let's pray: O God, because without you we are not able to please you, mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts, that in his power we might be the gospel people who have made, that we might be faithful in making known your faithfulness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

"Mene, mene, tekel, parsin," meaning, "You kingdom has come to an end, you have been measured and found wanting." Join pastor Brian Pursley for the sobering conclusion of Daniel chapter 5. Pride positions us against God every single time, and Belshazzar was no exception to the rule. King Belshazzar has chased after pleasure and power while neglecting to honor the true King. Let us learn a solemn lesson from the mistakes of the Babylonian king Belshazzar, the man who neglected to honor God, despite being given every opportunity during his reign.

2 Chronicles 23 tells of the courage of Jehoiadah the high priest in supporting the coronation of Joash - aged 8 - in defiance of the wicked usurper, Athaliah. Armed Levites surround the young king as he enters the temple. Joash is crowned to the acclamation: "God save the king". When this happens the evil usurper Athaliah cries - "Treason". That wicked woman is taken from the temple precinct and summarily executed. Jehoiadah now begins many reforms. He purges the idols from the land and ensures that all the people of Judah worship Yahweh 'in the beauty of holiness'. In Daniel 4 we have the acknowledgment by Nebuchadnezzar of the Almighty's everlasting kingdom. The Babylonian king is given a second dream of the luxuriant and sustaining tree which is described in verses 10-18. In the dream the tree is cut down and bound with rings of bronze and iron for a period of 2,520 day/years. In verses 19-26 Daniel interprets the dream and tells Nebuchadnezzar that it contains a personal message for him. The Babylonian king's enemies would rejoice in the out working of the dream. The judgment of which Daniel spoke to the king could be averted by Nebuchadnezzar humbling himselfbefore the Almighty and repenting (v27). Twelve months later when the king of Babylon is glorying in his great accomplishments the sentence was carried out as his PRIDE vaunts itself. In that very hour Nebuchadnezzar is stricken with madness and for seven years the king is turned into a brute beast. Theking's malady is called lycanthropy. Nebuchadnezzar's sanity only returned when the king acknowledges that "The Most High rules in the kingdom of men and sets up over it whoever He chooses". Read aloud verses 34-37 - pause and ponder.Acts 2 speaks of the day that commenced Pentecost - literally 50 days after the waiving of the sheaf of the first fruits on the third day after the Passover. Pentecost is known by the Jews as 'The Feast of Weeks' (the day following the marking off of seven weeks from Passover). Multitudes from every known country in the Roman world had been in Jerusalem for Passover (Edersheim suggests that there may have been three and a half million people present at that time). It was the perfect day to start witnessing for Christ. The phenomenon of the pouring out and resting of the Holy Spirit, in the form of a mighty rushing wind and resting on the Apostles in the form of cloven tongues of fir, was witnessed by many. The Apostles then began to speak in the dialects of the visitors to Jerusalem - at least 15 are named - as a sign to the assembled multitude that what the multitude were witnessing was from God. Verses 6, 8 and 11 indicate that the miraculous event was that of hearing. The crowds thought that the Apostles were drunk. Peter says that this could not be the case, but rather the phenomenon was a fulfilment of the prophecy of Joel 2 verses 28-32. Read aloud those verses from Joel - pause and ponder. Peter preaches Christ as approved among them by God in the witness of miracles and a sinless and raised Saviour in the evidence of the empty tomb. Jesus is indeed the LORD's Holy One. A repentant response was needed from the conscience-smitten crowd and this is evident in their plea of verse 37. Peter instructs those seeking a covering for sins to repent and be baptised i.e. be fully immersed in water and they would receive thepromise of the spirit i.e. salvation (consider Joel 2 verse 32). Three thousand respond and join the community of believers who constantly met in fellowship and unity. The ecclesia's expectations are outlined in verses 42-47.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

* 2 Kings: The divided kingdom is symptomatic of Israel's separation from God. In the northern kingdom, the prophet Elijah passing on the mantle of his ministry, along with a double blessing from God, to Elisha. With the defeat of Moab, and the mocking of Syria's blinded army, God's covenant people had opportunity after opportunity to thrive. Instead, their sin brought judgment. Ahab's sons were killed after his wicked widow Jezebel was thrown out of a window to her death. In the southern kingdom of Judah, the sole surviving son of the royal family became king, but eventually Joash too was murdered. After Elisha died, Israel and Judah fought, with rampant paganism in the north so weakening the ten tribes that they were carried carried away captive by the Assyrians. Meanwhile down south, the more benevolent reigns of kings like Azariah, Jotham, Hezekiah, and Josiah only postponed God's judgment until Nebuchadnezzar carried away Judah in the Babylonian captivity. Lessons abound in Second Kings. Available on MP3-CD or download.   BEL SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please consider one of our monthly subscriptions that will not only help support BEL, but they also promote better understanding of the Bible and may equip you to more effectively reach those around you. Monthly Sermons: Enjoy all of Bob's sermons from the month on Sermon Video DVD, great also to watch with the family. Or, get these on Sermon Audio CDs which are standard audio Compact Discs that will play on any CD player including the one in your car. Or get them on a single Sermon MP3-CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer.Monthly Bible Studies: Enjoy the Scriptures with Bob's Monthly Bible Study DVDs, great too for a small group Bible study. Or get these teachings on a single Monthly Bible Study Audio MP3- CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer.Monthly Topical Videos: Coming to your mailbox, you'll get a Monthly Topical DVD to enjoy one of Bob's great videos specially selected to be entertaining and to teach about life from a biblical worldview.Monthly Best of Bob Shows: Every month our crew selects the eight best BEL shows of the month and for the folks who might have missed some of them, we mail them out on the Best of Bob MP3-CD.Monthly BEL TV Classics: Enjoy Bob Enyart's timeless, popular TV show delivered to your home on the Monthly BEL TV Classics DVDs with great audio and video clarity thanks to our state-of-the-art mastering from the studio-quality Sony beta tapes to DVD!Monthly Donation: For folks who just want to make sure that Bob Enyart Live stays on the air, please consider making a pledge in the form of a Monthly Donation.

Join Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore Jeremiah 29:1, 4-14 for Christ the King Sunday (November 23, 2025). This powerful episode examines Jeremiah's shocking letter to the Babylonian exiles, where God calls His people not to resist, but to settle down, build homes, and seek the welfare of the very city that conquered them. The hosts unpack the jarring nature of Jeremiah's message—marry, have children, pray for Babylon—in contrast to the rage expressed in Psalm 137. They explore how this ancient text speaks to anyone finding themselves in an unexpected place or life circumstance, offering hope through one of Scripture's most famous promises: "For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope" (Jeremiah 29:11). This episode offers fresh perspective on exile, hope, and what it means to live faithfully in a mixed society while maintaining covenant relationship with God. Perfect preparation for Advent's themes of hope and waiting. TIMECODES: 00:00 Introduction to Exile and Hope 03:00 Jeremiah's Message to the Exiles 06:01 Reorientation in Exile 08:59 Hope and Future in Exile

* 2 Kings: The divided kingdom is symptomatic of Israel's separation from God. In the northern kingdom, the prophet Elijah passing on the mantle of his ministry, along with a double blessing from God, to Elisha. With the defeat of Moab, and the mocking of Syria's blinded army, God's covenant people had opportunity after opportunity to thrive. Instead, their sin brought judgment. Ahab's sons were killed after his wicked widow Jezebel was thrown out of a window to her death. In the southern kingdom of Judah, the sole surviving son of the royal family became king, but eventually Joash too was murdered. After Elisha died, Israel and Judah fought, with rampant paganism in the north so weakening the ten tribes that they were carried carried away captive by the Assyrians. Meanwhile down south, the more benevolent reigns of kings like Azariah, Jotham, Hezekiah, and Josiah only postponed God's judgment until Nebuchadnezzar carried away Judah in the Babylonian captivity. Lessons abound in Second Kings. Available on MP3-CD or download.   BEL SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please consider one of our monthly subscriptions that will not only help support BEL, but they also promote better understanding of the Bible and may equip you to more effectively reach those around you. Monthly Sermons: Enjoy all of Bob's sermons from the month on Sermon Video DVD, great also to watch with the family. Or, get these on Sermon Audio CDs which are standard audio Compact Discs that will play on any CD player including the one in your car. Or get them on a single Sermon MP3-CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer.Monthly Bible Studies: Enjoy the Scriptures with Bob's Monthly Bible Study DVDs, great too for a small group Bible study. Or get these teachings on a single Monthly Bible Study Audio MP3- CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer.Monthly Topical Videos: Coming to your mailbox, you'll get a Monthly Topical DVD to enjoy one of Bob's great videos specially selected to be entertaining and to teach about life from a biblical worldview.Monthly Best of Bob Shows: Every month our crew selects the eight best BEL shows of the month and for the folks who might have missed some of them, we mail them out on the Best of Bob MP3-CD.Monthly BEL TV Classics: Enjoy Bob Enyart's timeless, popular TV show delivered to your home on the Monthly BEL TV Classics DVDs with great audio and video clarity thanks to our state-of-the-art mastering from the studio-quality Sony beta tapes to DVD!Monthly Donation: For folks who just want to make sure that Bob Enyart Live stays on the air, please consider making a pledge in the form of a Monthly Donation.

We see a remnant of Jewish exiles return to Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity. Discover how King Cyrus of Persia, stirred by God, issues a decree allowing the Jews to rebuild their temple. Follow the journey of over 40,000 returnees, led by Jeshua the priest and Zerubbabel, as they face the challenges of reconstructing their lives and faith in a ruined city.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...

Where does restoration begin? In this episode, Brett explores the first step of restoration: acquiring and stewarding capital. This is not only about money, but about recognizing all forms of capital and the resources already in our hands. To do this, we must jettison the wilderness mentality, the mindset shaped by scarcity and survival, and learn to live with the abundance of the Promised Land. Babylonian and Egyptian economics have no place in the Kingdom. Restoration requires a renewed way of seeing and stewarding what God entrusts to us. This conversation invites us to shift from fear to faith, from lack to stewardship, and from wandering to building. Follow along with the book here: https://a.co/d/5EawCWe Connect with Brett Johnson on social media: Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Visit brettjohnson.biz for articles, devotionals, and more.

* 2 Kings: The divided kingdom is symptomatic of Israel's separation from God. In the northern kingdom, the prophet Elijah passing on the mantle of his ministry, along with a double blessing from God, to Elisha. With the defeat of Moab, and the mocking of Syria's blinded army, God's covenant people had opportunity after opportunity to thrive. Instead, their sin brought judgment. Ahab's sons were killed after his wicked widow Jezebel was thrown out of a window to her death. In the southern kingdom of Judah, the sole surviving son of the royal family became king, but eventually Joash too was murdered. After Elisha died, Israel and Judah fought, with rampant paganism in the north so weakening the ten tribes that they were carried carried away captive by the Assyrians. Meanwhile down south, the more benevolent reigns of kings like Azariah, Jotham, Hezekiah, and Josiah only postponed God's judgment until Nebuchadnezzar carried away Judah in the Babylonian captivity. Lessons abound in Second Kings. Available on MP3-CD or download.   BEL SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please consider one of our monthly subscriptions that will not only help support BEL, but they also promote better understanding of the Bible and may equip you to more effectively reach those around you. Monthly Sermons: Enjoy all of Bob's sermons from the month on Sermon Video DVD, great also to watch with the family. Or, get these on Sermon Audio CDs which are standard audio Compact Discs that will play on any CD player including the one in your car. Or get them on a single Sermon MP3-CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer.Monthly Bible Studies: Enjoy the Scriptures with Bob's Monthly Bible Study DVDs, great too for a small group Bible study. Or get these teachings on a single Monthly Bible Study Audio MP3- CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer.Monthly Topical Videos: Coming to your mailbox, you'll get a Monthly Topical DVD to enjoy one of Bob's great videos specially selected to be entertaining and to teach about life from a biblical worldview.Monthly Best of Bob Shows: Every month our crew selects the eight best BEL shows of the month and for the folks who might have missed some of them, we mail them out on the Best of Bob MP3-CD.Monthly BEL TV Classics: Enjoy Bob Enyart's timeless, popular TV show delivered to your home on the Monthly BEL TV Classics DVDs with great audio and video clarity thanks to our state-of-the-art mastering from the studio-quality Sony beta tapes to DVD!Monthly Donation: For folks who just want to make sure that Bob Enyart Live stays on the air, please consider making a pledge in the form of a Monthly Donation.

We delve into the remarkable story of King Nebuchadnezzar's troubling dream and its profound interpretation by the prophet Daniel. Set during the Babylonian exile, this account explores themes of divine revelation, prophecy, and the rise and fall of empires. Listeners will discover how God reveals to Daniel the dream's meaning, revealing a vision of future kingdoms symbolized by a colossal statue. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...

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Factors of Survival: Antifragility, River Systems, and IPCC Resilience Models AUTHOR NAME: Eric Cline BOOK TITLE: After 1177 BC, The Survival of Civilizations; 1177 BC, the year civilization collapsed Phoenicians demonstrated antifragility by flourishing in chaos, using trade wealth to buy off the threatening Neo-Assyrians. The Cypriots, though on an island, were later overwhelmed by the Assyrians. The survival of Egyptians, Assyrians, and Babylonians is partially attributed to their location on major river systems (Nile, Tigris/Euphrates), which the failed Hittites lacked. Resilience is analyzed using IPCC definitions: Phoenicians and Cypriots transformed, while Egyptians merely coped.

Assyrian Resilience: Leadership and Perpetual Warfare after 1177 BC AUTHOR NAME: Eric Cline BOOK TITLE: After 1177 BC, The Survival of Civilizations Professor Cline analyzes why societies like the Assyrians survived the 1177 BC collapse, identifying their successful leadership and redundant systems (government, military, writing). Since trade partners vanished, Assyrian leaders resorted to war almost yearly to acquire necessary resources. Their complex relationship with the Babylonians involved periods of alliance and fighting until the Babylonians eventually defeated them centuries later.

In sixth century B.C., Nebuchadnezzar was the absolute monarch of the Babylonian empire. He'd built maybe the most incredible city in history. He was at the pinnacle of power, and his life fell apart anyway. And here's the incredible part: he's glad it happened! He praises God for having done it. Do you know why? Because he says, “There was a spiritual cancer in me. There was something in me that was so bad, it was so dangerous, it had poisoned my soul so deeply that even as drastic as the treatment was, it was worth it to get it out of my soul.” What was it? Pride. Spiritual pride. Could it be that we need to know the same lesson he learned? This text teaches us four things: it tells us about 1) the sleep of pride, 2) the heart of pride, 3) the outcome of pride, and 4) the healing of pride. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on February 5, 1995. Series: The Seven Deadly Sins. Scripture: Daniel 4:24-37. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.