Podcasts about babylonians

As we finish our journey in 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, Fr. Mike highlights the Babylonian exile as a critical event in the story of salvation. Although the exile is a dark and devastating part of Israel's history, Fr. Mike reminds us that it's not the end of their story. Today's readings are 2 Kings 25, 2 Chronicles 36, and Proverbs 9:1-6. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

After Josiah's death, Judah spirals downward faster and faster toward the Babylonian exile. Jehoahaz's three-month reign is evil, and he is replaced by Jehoiakim, appointed by Pharaoh Neco. During the evil reign of Jehoiakim, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon comes up for a first time, taking captive Daniel and his friends. After Jehoiakim's reign, Nebuchadnezzar comes a second time. He not only loots the LORD's house, but he also takes captive the best of the people of Judah, including Ezekiel and the Davidic king, Jehoiachin. In his place, Nebuchadnezzar leaves Zedekiah as king over Judah. With each passing verse, the text makes plain that the end of Judah is coming, just as the LORD has spoken.   Rev. Lucas Witt, executive director of the Lutheran Mission Society of Maryland, headquartered in Baltimore, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Kings 23:31-24:17.  To learn more about the Lutheram Mission Society of Maryland, visit www.compassionplace.org. "A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, Jesus Christ. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics:Tammuz What does the month teach us? Why would our Sages adopt this month's name Tammuz when this is the name of a Babylonian deity?! What lies behind the paradox of Tammuz? What does it teach us about facing our present challenges? What is the central theme and lesson from this week's Torah portion? Does it have a connection with this month? Why is Balaam's blessing so fundamental, to the point that we say it in our morning prayer? Who would be considered a modern-day Balaam? What does the idol worship of Baal Peor signify? Why are we told the story of Zimri's despicable public behavior? Why and how do we celebrate this day? How does the liberation of 12-13 Tammuz impact us today? Why is it a two-day holiday? What can we learn from that? What did the Frierdiker Rebbe say to those assembled at the train station as he boarded the train to Kastroma? What can this day teach us about antisemitism today? Can we compare Jewish Hamas supporters to the yevsektzia? Can we contact him? How can we invite him and the woman who lit the candles to inspire our community? What lessons can we learn from this story? How has this story inspired others? What is the power of lighting candles? How can I use this story to motivate my wife to light Shabbos candles? Where does the expression originate from? Is it appropriate to use?  What is the Torah's perspective on the future of the world? Balak Yud Beis-Yud Gimmel Tammuz The story with the musician inspiring a woman to light candles gone viralNew World Order 

Introduction: The Book of Haggai is a book about God, about worship, about holiness. These themes take us back to the days of altars of Noah; of Abram (Abraham); of Isaac; of Jacob; and the Tabernacle of Moses (Play Video of Tabernacle). Haggai is the 37th book in the Old Testament .  Haggai is a Post-Exilic book meaning the timeframe happens after the Babylonian Captivity. God directed the Assyrians, Babylonians, & the Persians to accomplish His will!I. Let's set a timeline:1. Solomon's Temple built around 957 BC (United Monarchy)2. The Northern Kingdom (Israel) is defeated by Assyria in 722 BC3. The Southern Kingdom (Judah) is defeated by Babylon and the Temple was destroyed around 587-586 BC. The Book of Lamentations was written by Jeremiah based on what God did and what he saw (Lamentations 3:22-23)4. Zerubbabel's Temple (Book of Haggai) started in 536 BC and stopped with the foundation. 5. Restart on Zerubbabel's Temple started back in 520 BC. Finished in four months. Some were alive to see Solomon's Temple.READ HAGGAI 1 & 2 II. Some critical statement made in these 2 chapters:1. “Consider your ways” – 1:5 & 72. “That I may take pleasure” – 1:83. “Obeyed the voice of the Lord” – 1:124. “I am with you” – 1:13 & 2:45. “Be strong” – 2:4 (3 times)6. “The latter glory of this house will be greater than the former” – 2:97. “Make you like a signet ring, for I have chosen you” – 2:23 III. The Book of Haggai is connected to the Book of Ezra1. Read II Chronicles 36:22-23 2. Read Ezra 3:8-133. Read Ezra 4:1-5 (“adversaries” lied; “discouraged”; “made them afraid”; “bribed”). Fear of man paralyzes us. Fear of God frees us.4. Cyrus & Darius blessed the returning remnant (and paid for the rebuilding project!)5. Read Ezra 5:1-2 (Back on track)  IV. Haggai 1 – WHAT TIME IS IT?1. Haggai 1:3 - 2. Haggai 1:8 – 3. Haggai 1:12 4. Haggai 1:13 – 5. Haggai 1:14 –CHAPTER 2 NEXT WEEK 

Isaiah turns to the Babylonian captors and prophesies pertaining to them any anyone trusting in idols.All In Gospel Podcast is a chapter by chapter, verse by verse, in depth bible study where we seek to understand God's Word.All In Gospel is recorded live at Calvary Chapel with Pastor Seann Dikkers. You can support this study at anchor.fm/allingospel, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ccwhitebear.com.

The prophetic books of Jeremiah, Daniel and Ezekiel mark a radical change in the life of God's people, Israel. Starting with Jeremiah, the Babylonian exile is predicted, and then experienced. Daniel is taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar during Jeremiah's ministry, and after the 586 BC fall of Jerusalem, Ezekiel is called by God to minister to Israel in exile. Indeed, these prophets were aware of each others' ministries, and God's voice in them. Twice Ezekiel refers to Daniel (14:14 and 28:3), and Daniel mentions Jeremiah's prophecies (Daniel 9) as a source of his own prophetic ministry. Reading Jeremiah should be a learning experience par excellence, as getting clear on all its details and references - seeking to understand the discoveries of biblical archaeology that relate to it, and all the history of Israel, including the two kingdoms, their kings and their successes and failures, their faithfulness and their apostasy - sets one up to understand both the whole progression of scripture from Genesis to Revelation, and God's plan of salvation set in place "before the foundation of the world." Listen and read with a mind open to God's voice. Search the scriptures to answer the questions you encounter, search the archaeology to display the truth of God's word verified, search the language to understand better the nuances of God's meaning. Read/listen carefully, reverently and inquisitively, and God will show you amazing things! You have HIS promise on that! We suggest, as usual, starting here: https://youtu.be/RSK36cHbrk0?si=KaJSPPn7n6z7x_Pl

Shalom Truth-Seekers in Yeshua Messiah. This is the first installment in a series of detailed teaching on the Hebrew concept of “covenant” (or “Berit”) and its foundational role in the faith and salvation of God's (i.e. Yehovah's) chosen ones. In this installment we introduce the Hebrew concept of covenant by exploring the term's meaning. We also emphasize its significance as a sacred, legally binding relationship between Yehovah (God) and His chosen people, Yisra'el/Yasharal, with its physical and spiritual implications for all humanity. The teaching critiques denominational misunderstandings and highlights covenant's Torah roots and its wider scriptural (i.e. both Tanach and Brit HaDashah) importance. Introduction to the Covenant Series We begin by recalling a previous post on Genesis 12:3. The title of that post is: Does "I Will Bless Those Who Bless and Curse Those Who Curse," Apply to the Modern Nation of Israel? (If you've not had the opportunity to listen to or read that post, we humbly invite you to do so by clicking this link https://www.themessianictorahobserver.org/2025/06/28/does-i-will-bless-those-who-bless-and-curse-those-who-curse-apply-to-the-modern-nation-of-israel/) In that post we clarified that the verse is not a command to bless the modern nation-state of Israel. But rather the verse is a prescriptive covenant provision. This provision states that those who treat God's chosen people, according to Torah principles, receive Yah's favor, while those who mistreat them face divine harm. And thus, covenant is central to God's relationship with His covenant people, Israel/Yisra'el/Yasharal. And it was that post that has prompted this covenant teaching series. In this series, we will explore the refined and broader principles of covenant that link it to God's/Yah's Grand Plan of Salvation, Restoration, and Redemption through the Person and Ministries of Yeshua HaMashiyach. Also in this post, we stress that denominational Christianity often fails to grasp the true Hebrew concept of covenant's significance because of their overall rejection of Torah and Hebraic principles. Because of denominationalism's wholesale rejection of Torah and Hebraic principles, they fail to recognize that the covenant is the sole pathway to a true relationship with God/Yehovah. That God-human relationship was established originally with Abraham and came to its fullest realization in the Person and Ministries of Yeshua Messiah. We will see that faithfulness to Torah and covenant obedience are essential for salvation and entry into the Kingdom of Heaven (Mat 7.22-23). Understanding the Hebrew Concept of Covenant Covenant, or "Berit" (in Hebrew), is a set apart, legally binding relational agreement between God/Yehovah and His chosen people. (Later on in this series we will see that Yah's chosen people are not limited to just the biological descendants of Avraham, Yitschaq, and Ya'achov.) But covenant frames the established relationship between God and His chosen ones with rules/behavioral expectations, obligations, and promises. Secularists may view a covenant much like a contract. But we will see as we delve deeper into the covenant Yah established/cut with His chosen ones that the concept of covenant is deeper. It's akin to a marriage-like partnership that is characterized by love, grace, and mercy. Both parties of the relational covenant agreement are bound to uphold the tenets of the established covenant. But God's faithfulness ensures the covenant's integrity, even when the covenant's human-signatory to the covenant, fail to keep their end of the covenant agreement. This faithfulness on God's/Yehovah's part is an immutable trait of God. Moseh described this character trait accordingly:  “Yehovah/God is not a man that He should lie, nor a son of man (i.e. a human being) that He should repent (i.e. change His mind). Has He said and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not establish it?” (Numbers 23:19; LSB) The covenant (sometimes referred to as a blood covenant) is solemnly "cut" or established through an ancient middle eastern ritual that involves animal sacrifices. This bloody, solemn act symbolizes the serious and binding nature of the agreement (Gen 15). The Hebrew word "Berit" pictographically combines elements representing family, leadership, work, and consent. These elements underscore the covenant's relational and purposeful dimensions. Key Biblical Covenants We furthermore outline the five major expansions of Yah's covenant with His chosen ones: The Noahic Covenant (Genesis 6 and 9) The Patriarchal Covenant with Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12, 15, 17) The National Covenant given through Moses at Sinai (Exodus 19-24) The Davidic Covenant with King David (2 Chronicles, Psalms, Isaiah) The New or Renewed Covenant prophesied by Jeremiah and Ezekiel (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:26-38) Each covenant expansion reveals aspects of God's/Yah's immutable character and the love He has for His set apart people. These expansions include expectations Yah for His covenant people. These expansions of covenant shape Israel's identity and sacred mission on the earth. The Commonness and Uniqueness of Covenants While covenants were common in the ancient Near East, often understood by scholars as treaties that various kings established with their vassals, the Hebrew covenant is unique. For we find that it is initiated solely by God acting from a position of sovereignty. God/Yah offers to His chosen ones a non-negotiable invitation to enter into a relationship with Him that is based on grace and love. Humans may accept or reject that invitation, but they cannot alter the terms of that covenant. Why? Because it is God/Yah Who carries the covenant's weight. Not from a position of subjugating His people, but from an expression of His desire for loving communion with His people. The covenant is thus a sacred bond with rules that both parties must honor. Those who accept the terms of the covenant commit to loving God (and loving God/Yah comes through faithful obedience to Him) and loving one another (Luk 10:27). The prophet Jeremiah's words to the Babylonian captives illustrate God's faithfulness to His covenant despite Israel's failures (chapter 29). Because of Yah's steadfastness to His Covenant, He promises Judah restoration and a future of peace. Greek Understanding of Covenant and Terminology In this teaching we also contrast the Hebrew "Berit" with the Greek "diatheke" that is used in the New Testament and in the LXX/Septuagint. While "diatheke" can refer to a “will” or “testament,” the Greek version of covenant does not capture the rich spiritual depth of the Hebrew, which involves an enduring, intimate relationship that has far-reaching implications for humanity's salvation. Varying Definitions of Covenant We list several scholarly definitions for covenant, some of which emphasize covenant as an alliance, compact, treaty, or sacred kinship bonds. The Hebrew understanding of covenant, however, centers on relationship, promises, and expectations established uniquely by God/Yehovah with Israel/Yisra'el/Yasharal. Conclusion We conclude our discussion by emphasizing the necessity of understanding covenant from a Hebrew perspective that is rooted in Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings. A Greek-only or New Testament-only view limits comprehension of this critical concept and the one that embraces it from that Greek perspective risks missing the covenant's full significance for individual believers and the collective identity of Israel. The covenant remains the foundation for humanity's salvation and our entry into the Kingdom of God (i.e. the Malchut Ahlohim).  

When life shifts beneath our feet, we often long for what was and fear what's to come. Psalm 137 captures the raw emotion of the Israelites in Babylonian exile, providing a powerful parallel to our own experiences of loss and change. God's message to the exiles offers a formula for finding hope: build roots where you are, grow through planting hope instead of bitterness, live in community, pray for peace, and seek God wholeheartedly. Through Jesus, we find the ultimate hope that transforms our perspective from what was lost to what can be, giving us strength to face any circumstance. Follow and subscribe to stay updated with our latest content: Youtube  | Facebook | Instagram | Central Wired Website

Welcome to Day 2667 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2667 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 74:1-8 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2667 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2667 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Today's Wisdom Nugget is titled: A Cry from the Ashes – When God Seems Absent - A Trek Through Psalm 74:1-8 Guthrie Chamberlain: Welcome to Wisdom-Trek, your compass for navigating the profound landscapes of faith and life. I'm your guide, Guthrie Chamberlain, and today, we shift our focus from a personal spiritual crisis to a national tragedy, as we begin our trek through Psalm 74 in the New Living Translation, encompassing its opening verses, 1 through 8. Psalm 74, like the Psalm 73 we just concluded, is attributed to Asaph, one of the chief musicians. However, the tone and context are dramatically different. While Psalm 73 wrestled with individual suffering and the prosperity of the wicked, Psalm 74 is a raw, agonizing communal lament, born from a devastating national catastrophe. Scholars generally believe this psalm was written in the aftermath of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, most likely by the Babylonians in 586 BC. For the ancient Israelites, the Temple was more than just a building. It was the physical dwelling place of God's presence, the center of their worship, their national identity, and the very symbol of their covenant relationship with Yahweh. Its destruction was an unimaginable horror, a theological crisis of monumental proportions. It wasn't just a military defeat; it felt like God Himself had abandoned them, allowing His sacred dwelling to be utterly desecrated. This psalm gives voice to the profound anguish, confusion, and desperate pleading of a people reeling from unspeakable loss and wondering if God has truly turned His back on them forever. It offers a powerful model for how to lament when tragedy strikes, and when God's apparent silence is deafening. So, let's immerse ourselves in this cry from the ashes, feeling the weight of their despair and the desperate longing for God to remember. (Reads Psalm 74:1-3 NLT) O God, why have you abandoned us forever? Why does your anger burn against your own sheep? Remember your people, whom you chose long ago, the tribe you redeemed as your own special possession. Remember Mount Zion, where you live. Walk through these perpetual ruins, see the appalling destruction the enemy has done to your sanctuary. Guthrie Chamberlain: The psalm opens with an immediate, piercing cry of abandonment: "O God, why have you abandoned us forever? Why does your anger burn against your own sheep?" This isn't a gentle query; it's a desperate, almost accusatory question hurled at God. The phrase "abandoned us forever" expresses profound despair and a fear of permanent divine rejection. This feeling of being utterly forsaken by God, especially after such a catastrophe, was a terrifying reality for them. The psalmist uses the intimate metaphor of "your own sheep" –

Today in History: During the First Temple Period, the Babylonian army broke through the walls of Jerusalem to destroy the city (see Jeremiah 39:2; 2 Kings 25:1). The 9th of Tamuz was originally a fast day, but was moved after the Romans later broke through Jerusalem's walls on the 17th of Tamuz.This week's portion is called Chukat (Statue)TORAH PORTION: Numbers 21:21–22:1HAFTARAH: Judges 11:1–33APOSTLES: John 3:9–18Think about: How does the Haftarah connect to this week's Torah Portion?How do the Apostles connect to this week's Torah Portion?Daily Bread for Kids is a daily Bible reading podcast where we read through the Torah and the Gospels in one year! Helping young Bible-readers to study God's Word, while also discovering its Jewish context!THE KIDS' JOURNAL is available from ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://arielmedia.shop⁠⁠⁠⁠BUSY MOMS who want to follow the Daily Bread readings on podcast for adults, can go to ⁠⁠https://dailybreadmoms.com⁠⁠The Bible translation we are reading from is the Tree of Life Version (TLV) available from the Tree of Life Bible Society.INSTAGRAM: @dailybreadkids @arielmediabooks @dailybreadmomsTags: #DailyBreadMoms #DailyBreadJournal #BibleJournaling #Messianic #BiblePodcast #BiblicalFeasts #Journal #biblereadingplan #Messiah #JewishRoots #Yeshua #GodIsInControl #OneYearBible #MomLife #MotherCulture #FaithFilledMama #BiblicalWomanhood #Proverbs31woman

Before his mysterious death, Bill Cooper decoded the most dangerous secret in human history—the ancient symbolic language that controls our world without us even knowing it. This explosive investigation reveals how symbols, logos, and imagery aren't just decorative elements but sophisticated mind control tools that have been used for millennia to program human behavior and consciousness.Cooper's groundbreaking research exposed how the same symbolic systems used by ancient mystery schools, secret societies, and occult orders have been seamlessly integrated into modern corporate logos, government seals, entertainment media, and even the architecture of our cities. We're talking about a hidden language that speaks directly to your subconscious mind, bypassing your rational thought processes to implant ideas, emotions, and behaviors without your awareness.Our comprehensive investigation reveals how these symbols connect to everything from ancient astronomical knowledge to modern psychological warfare, from religious iconography to corporate branding strategies that literally reshape how you think and feel. Mystery enthusiasts and truth-seekers know that some knowledge is too dangerous to possess—and Bill Cooper's symbolic research proves why he was silenced.Our comprehensive investigation reveals how these symbols connect to everything from ancient astronomical knowledge to modern psychological warfare, from religious iconography to corporate branding strategies that literally reshape how you think and feel. Mystery enthusiasts and truth-seekers know that some knowledge is too dangerous to possess—and Bill Cooper's symbolic research proves why he was silenced.From the all-seeing eye on the dollar bill to the hidden meanings in Hollywood movies, from corporate logos that contain ancient magical formulas to government buildings designed as massive ritual spaces, we expose how symbolic programming has become the ultimate tool of mass control. The symbols aren't just everywhere—they're actively reprogramming your reality.We'll reveal how Cooper discovered connections between ancient Babylonian mystery religions and modern media manipulation, how the same families that controlled symbolic knowledge for centuries now control global information networks, and how understanding these hidden languages can literally deprogram you from a lifetime of subconscious manipulation.Cooper's research showed that symbols aren't just communication tools—they're consciousness alteration devices that can influence everything from your purchasing decisions to your political beliefs to your spiritual understanding. The origin of symbolism isn't just about history—it's about understanding how your mind is being controlled right now.From ancient temples to modern shopping malls, from religious artwork to video game imagery, this episode exposes how symbolic programming has become so sophisticated that most people live their entire lives under its influence without ever realizing they're being manipulated. Bill Cooper died trying to warn us—this episode continues his mission.Stream exclusively on Spreaker for uncensored bonus content about Cooper's suppressed research, or find us on Amazon Music (ask your Alexa about Bill Cooper symbolism), Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and everywhere truth-seekers get their consciousness reality checks. Some knowledge is worth dying for—this episode tells you why.

In keeping with our intensive study of Israel's history this year, Jenny and I have concentrated our attention on the Exilic and Post-exilic prophets. We've included Jeremiah in this list, even though he spans the immediate pre-exilic period, leading up to the Babylonian exile. The most enigmatic exilic prophet, most certainly, is Ezekiel. His name means "God's strength." We encourage our listeners to struggle with Ezekiel's difficulty, as we believe God has a great deal of undiscovered meaning in this text. Some of the most exciting references, for me, are those to his contemporary prophet-in-exile, Daniel (Ezekiel 14:14, 20 and 28:3). He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

Today's daf is sponsored by Mark & Semé Cooper in honor of their 25th wedding anniversary. Today's daf is sponsored by  Marc and Becki Goldstein with gratitude to the Almighty who will אי"ה celebrate the marriage of their first granddaughter Amiah to Neria today. שיזכו להוסיף עוד חוליה בשרשרת הדורות לבנין עדי עד Today's daf is sponsored by Hannah Piotrkowski, with prayers for the refuah shleima of Michal Naomi bat Zahava Gita, who is having major surgery for a life-threatening illness. What items are forbidden to sell all year round to idol worshippers? The Babylonian amoraim struggled to understand the terms used in the Mishna and relied mainly on the scholars in Israel to explain them. It is permitted to sell large quantities of items that are generally used for idol worship, as they are for resale, and there is no prohibition of putting a stumbling block indirectly (selling to someone who may sell to others who will transgress the prohibition). If one sells them with other similar items that are not used for idol worship, there is a debate whether or not it is permitted. Rabbi Yona explains that if the buyer asked specifically for the item used for idol worship, one cannot sell. But if the buyer was not specific about which type, it is permitted to sell even the one used for idol worship. The Gemara raises two difficulties with Rabbi Yonah's position, but resolves them both.  Whether or not it is forbidden to sell a small animal (like sheep, etc.) to non-Jews depends on the local custom, dependent on whether the non-Jews there engage in bestiality. It is forbidden to sell large animals to non-Jews, as it may lead one to rent them or loan them, which would be forbidden, as animals owned by Jews are not allowed to work on Shabbat.     

Today's daf is sponsored by Mark & Semé Cooper in honor of their 25th wedding anniversary. Today's daf is sponsored by  Marc and Becki Goldstein with gratitude to the Almighty who will אי"ה celebrate the marriage of their first granddaughter Amiah to Neria today. שיזכו להוסיף עוד חוליה בשרשרת הדורות לבנין עדי עד Today's daf is sponsored by Hannah Piotrkowski, with prayers for the refuah shleima of Michal Naomi bat Zahava Gita, who is having major surgery for a life-threatening illness. What items are forbidden to sell all year round to idol worshippers? The Babylonian amoraim struggled to understand the terms used in the Mishna and relied mainly on the scholars in Israel to explain them. It is permitted to sell large quantities of items that are generally used for idol worship, as they are for resale, and there is no prohibition of putting a stumbling block indirectly (selling to someone who may sell to others who will transgress the prohibition). If one sells them with other similar items that are not used for idol worship, there is a debate whether or not it is permitted. Rabbi Yona explains that if the buyer asked specifically for the item used for idol worship, one cannot sell. But if the buyer was not specific about which type, it is permitted to sell even the one used for idol worship. The Gemara raises two difficulties with Rabbi Yonah's position, but resolves them both.  Whether or not it is forbidden to sell a small animal (like sheep, etc.) to non-Jews depends on the local custom, dependent on whether the non-Jews there engage in bestiality. It is forbidden to sell large animals to non-Jews, as it may lead one to rent them or loan them, which would be forbidden, as animals owned by Jews are not allowed to work on Shabbat.     

Of all the prophecies in the Bible, Revelation 17 is the most astonishing. It culminates a series of visions of four world empires, the fourth to be revived in the "last days" and ruled by Antichrist through ten subordinate "kings"—a series of visions which began 600 years earlier in Daniel 2 with Nebuchadnezzar's image. The image's "head of gold" was the first world empire, the Babylonian; the "breast and arms of silver" pictured the succeeding Medo-Persian Empire; next was the Grecian represented by "belly and thighs of brass"; and finally the "legs of iron, and feet [with ten toes signifying ten kings] part of iron and part of clay" depicted the fourth world empire arising out of Rome.Daniel's prophecy (continued in chapters 7-12) foretold accurate details of coming world empires which we can't enumerate. Apropos of our subject, however, the image's two legs foretold the Roman Empire's division into East and West. And so it happened, first politically; centuries later, religiously. Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy (which in July again gained control of religion in Russia) remain divided to this day. They will, however, be reunited as the core of Antichrist's new world religion.

The prophetic books of Jeremiah, Daniel and Ezekiel mark a radical change in the life of God's people, Israel. Starting with Jeremiah, the Babylonian exile is predicted, and then experienced. Daniel is taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar during Jeremiah's ministry, and after the 586 BC fall of Jerusalem, Ezekiel is called by God to minister to Israel in exile. Indeed, these prophets were aware of each others' ministries, and God's voice in them. Twice Ezekiel refers to Daniel (14:14 and 28:3), and Daniel mentions Jeremiah's prophecies (Daniel 9) as a source of his own prophetic ministry. Reading Jeremiah should be a learning experience par excellence, as getting clear on all its details and references - seeking to understand the discoveries of biblical archaeology that relate to it, and all the history of Israel, including the two kingdoms, their kings and their successes and failures, their faithfulness and their apostasy - sets one up to understand both the whole progression of scripture from Genesis to Revelation, and God's plan of salvation set in place "before the foundation of the world." Listen and read with a mind open to God's voice. Search the scriptures to answer the questions you encounter, search the archaeology to display the truth of God's word verified, search the language to understand better the nuances of God's meaning. Read/listen carefully, reverently and inquisitively, and God will show you amazing things! You have HIS promise on that! We suggest, as usual, starting here: https://youtu.be/RSK36cHbrk0?si=KaJSPPn7n6z7x_Pl

Thus far in his reign as king, Hezekiah has put his trust in the Lord. After Isaiah prophesies that his illness will end in death, Hezekiah prays to the Lord and the Lord hears, granting him another 15 years of life. It's not long, however, before Hezekiah gets cocky and shows off his sweet digs to his neighbors, the Babylonians. Of course, we know that won't end well. A couple generations later, King Josiah takes throne at the age of eight, and almost by happenstance, the king's servant stumbles across the book of the Law which had become so forgotten and neglected that they weren't quite sure what they were looking at.2 Kings 20 - 1:15 . 2 Kings 21 - 5:55 . 2 Kings 22 - 11:54 . Psalm 104 - 16:29 . Psalm 105 - 20:51 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

This week's learning is sponsored anonymously in gratitude to Rabbi Carl Perkins, a learned and compassionate rabbi, a gifted teacher, whose love of Judaism inspires all who are blessed to know him. Today's daf is sponsored by Paul and Danielle Nacamuli. "Mazel tov to our daughter and son-in-law on their marriage, may you enjoy many years of joy together!" Today's daf is sponsored by Natanya Slomowitz in loving memory of her mother, Haviva Lilka bat Necha and Avraham. Onkelos converted to Judaism. The emperor sent three different groups of troops to seize him, but he convinced each group to convert to Judaism by explaining to them that God takes care of his people better than the Roman leaders. The prophecy told to Rivka when she was pregnant with Esau and Yaakov, "There are two nations in your womb," is explained as meaning "two proud/great ones" and refers to Rebbi and Antoninus, who were both blessed with plenty. What is the basis of the argument between Rabbi Meir and the rabbis regarding whether it is forbidden to do business with idol worshippers on the day of the death of their king, only if there is burning or even if there is not? How does that connect with the braita that says the Jews burn the items of a king, and it is not forbidden because it is the way of the non-Jews? They would burn items not only when kings died, but also heads of the Sanhedrin. What types of items would be burned? The Mishna mentions the day of shaving his beard and his locks. Is this referring to two separate days - one of shaving the beard and one of shaving the locks on the back of his neck to be offered to the idol, or the day where one shaved his beard, but kept his locks to grow, to later be offered to the idol? The Gemara concludes that both answers are correct. Another Roman holiday is described where they would celebrate their dominion over the Jews. This one is not listed in the Mishna as it happened only once in a lifetime, or very infrequently. What were the Babylonian and Persian holidays? Rav Huna son of Rav Chisda listed several pagan temples with which it was forbidden to ever do business, as they offered sacrifices daily to the idols. Shmuel was lenient with holidays in the Diaspora and forbade only the day of the holiday itself.

Back this week with one final, somewhat nautical episode to round out the month of June. This week we're talking about the Great Flood of Noah's Ark fame. It's one of the best known bible stories. But did you know, it doesn't end there? Almost every other major culture or religion that we know of has almost the same flood myth. The ancient Babylonians, the Greeks, Hindu, Buddhist, Aztec, Chinese, Norse, Aboriginal Australian, various Native Americans groups, and the list goes on and on. This story is everywhere. But is it just a freakishly common legend, a recurring myth meant to teach a lesson, or did it actually happen? Let's fix that. Support the show! Join the Patreon (patreon.com/historyfixpodcast)Buy some merchBuy Me a CoffeeVenmo @Shea-LaFountaineSources: National Center for Science Education "Yes, Noah's Flood May Have Happened, But Not Over the Whole Earth"ABC News "Evidence Noah's Biblical Flood Happened, Says Robert Ballard"How Stuff Works "The Great Flood: More Than a Myth?" The Jerusalem Post "Durupinar Formation radar scans reveal hidden structures associated with Noah's Ark"PBS Independent Lens "A Flood of Myths and Stories"Wikipedia "Black Sea Deluge Hypothesis"Columbia University Record "Noah's Flood: Evidence of Ancient Disaster is Linked to Biblical Legend"Mini Museum "Revisiting the Black Sea Deluge Hypothesis"World History Encyclopedia "First Wave/Earliest Civilizations"Shoot me a message!

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 10:00:00 EDT https://www.substance

This week's learning is sponsored anonymously in gratitude to Rabbi Carl Perkins, a learned and compassionate rabbi, a gifted teacher, whose love of Judaism inspires all who are blessed to know him. Today's daf is sponsored by Paul and Danielle Nacamuli. "Mazel tov to our daughter and son-in-law on their marriage, may you enjoy many years of joy together!" Today's daf is sponsored by Natanya Slomowitz in loving memory of her mother, Haviva Lilka bat Necha and Avraham. Onkelos converted to Judaism. The emperor sent three different groups of troops to seize him, but he convinced each group to convert to Judaism by explaining to them that God takes care of his people better than the Roman leaders. The prophecy told to Rivka when she was pregnant with Esau and Yaakov, "There are two nations in your womb," is explained as meaning "two proud/great ones" and refers to Rebbi and Antoninus, who were both blessed with plenty. What is the basis of the argument between Rabbi Meir and the rabbis regarding whether it is forbidden to do business with idol worshippers on the day of the death of their king, only if there is burning or even if there is not? How does that connect with the braita that says the Jews burn the items of a king, and it is not forbidden because it is the way of the non-Jews? They would burn items not only when kings died, but also heads of the Sanhedrin. What types of items would be burned? The Mishna mentions the day of shaving his beard and his locks. Is this referring to two separate days - one of shaving the beard and one of shaving the locks on the back of his neck to be offered to the idol, or the day where one shaved his beard, but kept his locks to grow, to later be offered to the idol? The Gemara concludes that both answers are correct. Another Roman holiday is described where they would celebrate their dominion over the Jews. This one is not listed in the Mishna as it happened only once in a lifetime, or very infrequently. What were the Babylonian and Persian holidays? Rav Huna son of Rav Chisda listed several pagan temples with which it was forbidden to ever do business, as they offered sacrifices daily to the idols. Shmuel was lenient with holidays in the Diaspora and forbade only the day of the holiday itself.

Today, we explored the reality of doubt in the life of faith, drawing from the story of Habakkuk—a prophet who dared to bring his deepest questions and frustrations directly to God. Habakkuk lived through a time of spiritual revival under King Josiah, only to see everything unravel under the wicked reign of Jehoiakim. Surrounded by political chaos and spiritual decline, Habakkuk's heart was broken as he watched his people turn from God and face the threat of destruction from brutal foreign powers. In his confusion and pain, he did not turn away from God, but instead turned toward Him, voicing his honest doubts and asking, “Why?”God's response to Habakkuk was not what he expected. Instead of promising immediate rescue or revival, God revealed that He was already at work in ways Habakkuk could not understand—even using the Babylonians, a ruthless nation, as part of His plan. This answer only deepened Habakkuk's confusion, showing us that sometimes, even when God answers, it doesn't resolve all our questions. The story invites us to wrestle honestly with our doubts, recognizing that doubt is not the enemy of faith, but can be a catalyst for deeper trust and a more personal relationship with God.We also reflected on the story of Thomas, the disciple who doubted, and how his journey led him to a faith that was truly his own. Doubt, rather than being a sign of spiritual weakness, can be the soil in which authentic faith grows. The key is not to run from our questions, but to bring them to Jesus, who meets us with patience and love.Ultimately, what we need most in seasons of doubt is not answers, but God's presence. Answers may not heal our pain or restore what we've lost, but the assurance that God is with us—steadfast, loving, and unafraid of our questions—gives us the courage to hold on. Faith is not about having everything figured out; it's about trusting the One who holds us, even when nothing makes sense. In the space between our questions and God's answers, we find that His presence is enough.Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[01:00] - Introduction: Life-Changing Encounters[03:55] - Wrestling with Doubt and Asking “Why?”[06:00] - Context: The World of Habakkuk[07:43] - Josiah's Revival and Judah's Decline[09:09] - The Spiritual and Political Crisis[12:17] - Habakkuk's Honest Questions[13:56] - Personal Story: A Father's Pain and Doubt[16:33] - God's Surprising Answer[18:31] - God at Work in Unexpected Ways[20:13] - The Babylonians: God's Unimaginable Plan[22:27] - Habakkuk's Confusion and Struggle[24:14] - Doubt as a Pathway to Deeper Faith[27:04] - Thomas: From Doubt to Devotion[30:51] - Faith in the Midst of Unanswered Questions[32:52] - The Limits of Answers and the Need for God[35:53] - Holding On When Life Doesn't Make Sense[38:22] - Waiting and Watching in the Silence[39:12] - Presence Over Answers[40:44] - Spoken Word: “A Shadow of a Doubt”[46:46] - God's Love in Our Doubt and Closing PrayerWelcome, EVC!

The sermon transcript presents a frustrated critique of contemporary biblical interpretation, particularly regarding the book of Isaiah. The speaker laments the pervasive tendency to impose modern theological frameworks onto ancient texts, specifically highlighting the misapplication of Isaiah 44 and the conflation of church-centric themes with its original context of comfort and promise to Israel in Babylonian captivity. The speaker emphasizes the importance of observational Bible study and the need to resist the urge to impose personal or denominational preferences onto scripture, advocating for a return to careful reading and a recognition of the historical and covenantal setting of biblical passages, ultimately expressing discouragement with the state of biblical understanding and a desire for a more faithful engagement with the text.

This week, Dennis Allan talked through Daniel 7, the beginning of the apocalyptic section of the book. There, Daniel tells about a vision that included four beasts, ten horns, the Ancient of Days, and the Son of Man. It's a story that provided hope to the Israelites in exile under the Babylonian and then Persian empires that these evil and unjust empires would be judged and rendered powerless. It's a story that still provides hope today. We don't have to wonder who the Son of Man is, as Daniel's original audience did. We know the Son of Man is Jesus and we know that right now He is reigning at the right hand of God. We can trust in the hope that despite the injustice, oppression, and darkness we see in the world today, all of it will one day be judged and rendered powerless. Jesus has already come and He's already won.

This full-length documentary episode brings together the complete story of Solomon’s Temple, from its golden beginnings under King Solomon to its final destruction by the Babylonians. We explore its construction, centuries of renovation and reform, and the violent end that reshaped the future of an entire people. With scriptural references, historical context, and archaeological insight, this is the definitive narrative of the First Temple. Join us on a journey through kings, prophets, conquerors, and the long shadow of one of history’s most sacred structures.#SolomonsTemple #HistoryOfThePapacy #BiblicalHistory #TempleOfJerusalem #FirstTemple #ChurchHistory #BiblePodcast #BabylonianExile #ArchaeologyPodcastSupport the show:Buy me a coffee! https://buymeacoffee.com/historyofthepapacyPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/historyofthepapacyBuy me a book! https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1MUPNYEU65NTFHave questions, comments or feedback? Here are ways to contact me:Email Us: steve@atozhistorypage.comhttps://www.atozhistorypage.com/podcastMusic Provided by:"Sonatina in C Minor" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Funeral March for Brass" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Crusade Heavy Perfect Loop" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Agnus Dei X - Bitter Suite Kevin MacLeaod (incomptech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EPISODE 3 - PART 1Dive into this thought-provoking Bible study exploring how ancient Mesopotamian texts—like the Enuma Elish, Epic of Gilgamesh, and Sumerian cuneiform tablets—reframe the origins of familiar biblical narratives. Paul Wallis unpacks the parallels between Babylonian and Hebrew stories, tracing the influence of the Anunnaki, Sumerian gods, and the reinterpretation of the Elohim. Discover how religious belief systems evolved, how cultural taboos formed, and what it means for our understanding of faith today.00:01:31 - Exploring Ancient Texts and Belief Systems 00:04:05 - Spiritual Coaching and Personal Transformation 00:05:07 - Exploring Ancient Texts and Belief Systems 00:06:52 - Exploring Ancient Texts and Belief Systems 00:09:16 - Babylonian Influence on Biblical Texts 00:10:51 - Cuneiform Writing and Mesopotamian Discovery 00:12:02 - George Smith and the Genesis Connection 00:15:11 - Ancient Mesopotamia and Cultural Context 00:20:23 - Genesis and Ancient Parallels 00:24:53 - Faith Deconstruction and Reframing 00:26:14 - Religious Reforms and Monotheism 00:30:25 - Elohim and the Anunnaki Connection 00:33:28 - Hezekiah and the Shift to Monotheism 00:36:25 - Ancient Seal and Pre-Reform Judaism 00:38:34 - Sky People and Ancient Contact 00:41:04 - The Impact of Violent God Imagery 00:42:50 - Belief Systems and the Loss of Independent Thought 00:45:08 - Fear-Based Faith and Hell Doctrine 00:48:17 - The Grief Process of Belief Deconstruction 00:52:01 - Letting Go: Embracing New Understanding

In keeping with our intensive study of Israel's history this year, Jenny and I have concentrated our attention on the Exilic and Post-exilic prophets. We've included Jeremiah in this list, even though he spans the immediate pre-exilic period, leading up to the Babylonian exile. The most enigmatic exilic prophet, most certainly, is Ezekiel. His name means "God's strength." We encourage our listeners to struggle with Ezekiel's difficulty, as we believe God has a great deal of undiscovered meaning in this text. Some of the most exciting references, for me, are those to his contemporary prophet-in-exile, Daniel (Ezekiel 14:14, 20 and 28:3). He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

Study 26 - Luke 21:5-38 The fall of Jerusalem and the End of the Age First: some introduction. A quick google shows 9 occasions in which there was a major siege and capture of Jerusalem, from that by the Babylonians in 586 BC to one by the British in AD 1917. This chapter is very similar to Mark 13 and Matthew 24 (many think Mark’ gospel was a major source of Luke’s information). Matt 24, in particular, is worth reading to note the additional information it contains. These chapters are concerned with Jesus’ prophecies of the important siege and sack of Jerusalem in AD 70. This was carried out by the Romans in reaction to a rebellion of the Jews within the Roman Empire about 40 years after the death of Jesus (probably about the time Luke wrote his gospel). But these are notoriously difficult chapters to understand, mainly because the prophecies of the fall of Jerusalem act in part as a foreshadowing and illustration of what is still to happen at the end of the age. The fall of Jerusalem was immediately catastrophic for the Jews but even more important for the Christians who understood it to be the final act of the OT approach to God, completely clearing the way for the Kingdom Age introduced by Jesus. Even the phrase ‘end of the age’ is difficult. Some argue that from the perspective of a Jew in AD 60 that would mean no more than the end of their life, society and culture, which did indeed occur in AD 70, landing them into a totally different age. However it seems to have at least some reference to the Day of the Lord, which is still in front of us nearly 2000 years later. Question 1: Which of the following verses is about the Fall of Jerusalem, which is about the end of the age, and which cannot be clearly assigned solely to either of these? v6–9; v24b; v25 & 27; v34b-35 The fall of Jerusalem was horrendous by any standards. According to Josephus, a Jewish historian working for the Romans, about 1.1 million people (he is known to exaggerate!) were killed, many because different factions of the Jews fought each other within the walls while the Romans watched in amazement from outside. The temple was then totally destroyed by the Romans but the city did continue for a further 65 years until AD 135 when a further revolt so infuriated Hadrian, the Emperor at that time, that he had it completely razed to the ground and rebuilt as a Roman city called Aelia Capitolina. Question 2: Is there any reason to think that the problems of v 9, 10, 25 and 26 were any worse in the 1st century than previously? Or are any worse in the 21st century? A matter of opinion – but I don’t think there is much difference. With the vast improvement in communication technology we know far more about what is happening on the other side of the world than they used to do. Read Daniel 7:1–3, 7–14, 19–22, 27. The hearers of Jesus will have known this prophecy of Daniel well. Question 3: What then will they have understood him to mean by the reference to the Son of Man in Luke 21: 27? In particular what encouragement will they have got from what he said? They will have been encouraged not only by the promise that Jesus will return in great power and glory but that the figure in Daniel is representative of the people of God. They will have taken this to mean that their position would improve greatly in the age to come. Question 4: What encouragement should persecuted Christians in one of the difficult countries of the world get from what Jesus said? Question 5: If, on the other hand, we are in one of the easier countries in the world to be a Christian what encouragement should we get from this chapter? It is strange that Luke does not use what Mark records in Mk 13:32–36. Question 6: What are the motives of those who ignore those verses and make confident but erroneous predictions? How should we react to such things? Right mouse click or tap here to save/download this as a MP3 audio file

This episode is the essential starting point for understanding the Neo-Assyrian Empire. In 745 BCE, a relatively obscure man named Tukulti-Apil-Esharra—better known by his biblical name Tiglath-Pileser III—seized the Assyrian throne in what would become one of the most transformative moments in ancient Near Eastern history. This episode explores how Tiglath-Pileser's revolutionary reforms reshaped the military, administration, and ideology of the Assyrian state, laying the foundation for the largest and most durable empire the world had yet seen.We delve into the political collapse that preceded his rise, the obscure origins and contested legitimacy of Tiglath-Pileser himself, and the sudden consolidation of power that enabled him to bring Assyria back from the brink of fragmentation. We then examine his first campaigns in Babylonia, where Assyrian intervention brought order to the chaos left by years of Chaldean misrule, and consider the complex relationship between Assyria and Babylon—one rooted in reverence, rivalry, and shared civilization.This episode also introduces the deep structural changes Tiglath-Pileser initiated: the expansion of a professional standing army, the shift from vassalage to direct imperial administration, and the rising use of Aramaic alongside Akkadian. We explore the rise of eunuch officials, the growing importance of taxation within the core territory of Mat Assur, and how these policies would strengthen the empire in the short term while sowing the seeds of long-term resentment.From palace coups to temple politics, from highland conquests in the Zagros Mountains to the quiet rise of Nabonassar in Babylon, this episode places 745 BCE at the center of a vast historical transformation. It is a turning point not only in Assyrian history, but in the history of the entire ancient Near East, with consequences that would echo into the rise of the Babylonians, Persians, and Greeks. For students of ancient history, biblical history, Assyriology, and the origins of empire, this episode provides a detailed and foundational account of the birth of the Neo-Assyrian world order.I am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories Daily on Tiktok and Youtube Shorts.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

The prophetic books of Jeremiah, Daniel and Ezekiel mark a radical change in the life of God's people, Israel. Starting with Jeremiah, the Babylonian exile is predicted, and then experienced. Daniel is taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar during Jeremiah's ministry, and after the 586 BC fall of Jerusalem, Ezekiel is called by God to minister to Israel in exile. Indeed, these prophets were aware of each others' ministries, and God's voice in them. Twice Ezekiel refers to Daniel (14:14 and 28:3), and Daniel mentions Jeremiah's prophecies (Daniel 9) as a source of his own prophetic ministry. Reading Jeremiah should be a learning experience par excellence, as getting clear on all its details and references - seeking to understand the discoveries of biblical archaeology that relate to it, and all the history of Israel, including the two kingdoms, their kings and their successes and failures, their faithfulness and their apostasy - sets one up to understand both the whole progression of scripture from Genesis to Revelation, and God's plan of salvation set in place "before the foundation of the world." Listen and read with a mind open to God's voice. Search the scriptures to answer the questions you encounter, search the archaeology to display the truth of God's word verified, search the language to understand better the nuances of God's meaning. Read/listen carefully, reverently and inquisitively, and God will show you amazing things! You have HIS promise on that! We suggest, as usual, starting here: https://youtu.be/RSK36cHbrk0?si=KaJSPPn7n6z7x_Pl

Join us for Thinker's Tavern on Thursdays 6:30 EST; details at  https://instituteforfemininemyth.org/thinkers-tavernThis week's episode looks at Semiramis, the legendary Queen of the Assyrian Empire who is said to have taken over as regent when her husband died, and until her son came of age. Semiramis is the Greek name of the queen Shammuramat, and her history is controversial. Roman historians and geographers credit her with many architectural achievements, conquest of the Armenians, and stabilizing a crumbling empire after a civil war. Not surprisingly, other stories portray her as a lustful, power-hungry seductress. We look at what is written about Semiramis, and discuss the "threat" of the powerful, competent woman in patriarchal narratives. 

Master's MessageAs your Master for 2023, I'd like to hear from you. Send me a note at john.mccargar@gmail.com if you have any comments, concerns or questions at all. We have around 170 brother-members many of whom are out of state, many who are possibly unable to attend lodge. But either way, drop me a note and tell me how you are doing or offer some words about your journey at this stage in your life. I'd love to hear from you.The theme this month is secrecy, an important topic throughout the history of the Craft. The picture-insert of the figurine, with index finger placed close to his lips, appears to be a gesture to remain silent. Perhaps the depiction also hints at a finger pointed heavenward, as if to also suggest silence and reverence are combined to express the virtue of both. The ideal of secrecy forms a basis for protecting or even perpetuation our Masonic domain or body of knowledge. But what's the big deal about that? Many are or have been hostile to our fraternity. Here's a quick summary of why we have a need for maintaining “secrecy”:• Freemasonry stands against oppression and totalitarianism (AASR).• It is non-sectarian yet abhors atheism and promotes religious belief.• It proposes free-thought and free-conscience for determining truth.• It has spiritual rituals that can be the subject of ridicule or mockery.• It has no religious dogma yet invokes the blessings of Deity.• It has been seen as a conspiracy or prejudicial by the profane (historically).• Freemasons can be and have been the target of violence.• Seeks improvement in all human affairs through a select brotherhood.• Tolerates diverse philosophies in the exposition of truth.• Science and Religion go hand in hand.• It stands against ignorance, fanaticism, corruption and hate.These some of the bigger reasons; our modes of recognition and ritual details are lesser ones but just as important, if only for reverence in what leads to sacredness and respect for what is good and true among men. Tell me what you think. (Picture of figurine courtesy of the London Museum of Freemasonry)John McCargar, HAMasterFrom the WestA human being living alone at -71 deg C in the wilderness of snowy forests isn't affected by any secrecy; or is he part of one? In theory, secrecy and openness are mutually exclusive, meaning they can't exist at the same time just like war and peace. In the information age we live in, anything that brings criticism or vulnerability is termed to have been engulfed in secrecy or layers of it. Esoteric may or may not be a secret but a secret might be esoteric or it loses its definition. Does that make sense? Does secrecy breed incompetence, of course, it does. Maybe that is why it should be handled by the initiated and/or chosen few and not just anyone with a pulse. To avoid dire consequences secrecy acts as a shield. Ask an electrician the meaning of insulation that protects him but only a trusted man well-trained in the craft deserves that protection.The universe itself holds secrecy, colors don't announce the outcome when mixed.Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Babylonian civilizations came and went away as time and tide wait for none. The society we live in has been destroyed and rebuilt many a time with the added knowledge that demands secrecy. The attentive ear receives sound from the instructive tongue and mysteries of freemasonry are safely lodged in the repository of faithful breasts. Freemasonry itself has withstood the tide of changing times because of the respect for the esoteric and the eyes that are upon its members. The goodness of heart and purity of intention keeps the tenets of our esteemed institution sacred and solid. The burdens and responsibilities that come with it entitle a Freemason to its benefits and privileges. Classified it is what makes them want it more or more will want it hence keeping classified, is the secrecy we all must deal with. Elite clubs have their limitations.Shivam J. Sharma, HASenior Warden

The Three Weeks Of Mourning Through The Eyes Of Jeremiah  Part 2:  The Fast Of Tammuz And Rebuilding The Walls Of Jerusalem  -  English and Spanish.  We fast on the 17th day of the fourth month of the Hebrew calendar because on that day, 2000 years ago, the Romans breached the walls of Jerusalem.  Three weeks later, they burned the House of God to the foundations. The Babylonians also breached the walls in the fourth month, 600 years before the Romans, and burned down the Temple. What can we do about these great tragedies?  The Scriptures provide details of a lesson for all of us!  This is a rebroadcast of a sermon originally recorded July 17, 2022.  This year, 2025, the three weeks of mourning begins with the fast of the fourth month on July 13, 2025. Las Tres Semanas De Luto A Través De Los Ojos De Jeremías Parte 2: El Ayuno De Tamuz Y La Reconstrucción De Los Muros De Jerusalén - Inglés y Español.  Ayunamos el día 17 del cuarto mes del calendario hebreo porque ese día, hace 2000 años, los romanos abrieron una brecha en los muros de Jerusalén.  Tres semanas más tarde, quemaron la Casa de Dios hasta los cimientos. Los babilonios también rompieron los muros en el cuarto mes, 600 años antes que los romanos, y quemaron el Templo. ¿Qué podemos hacer ante estas grandes tragedias?  ¡Las Escrituras proporcionan detalles de una lección para todos nosotros!  Esta es una retransmisión de un sermón grabado originalmente el 17 de julio de 2022.  Este año, 2025, las tres semanas de luto comienzan con el ayuno del cuarto mes el 13 de julio de 2025.

By Tim Martens - Modern-day Iran, significant for creating instability in the Middle East, used to be known as Persia, and, after the Babylonians took Judah into captivity, Persia defeated them, inheriting Judah as a captive nation. The story of Esther, and her familial relationship with Mordecai provides good

The First Temple stood as the heart of ancient Judah—until Babylon rolled in.This episode dives into the fall of Solomon’s Temple: shifting empires, bad kings, and a Babylonian king who didn’t just conquer, he changed everything.From palace intrigue to prophetic warnings to a smoking ruin, we trace the collapse of a kingdom—and what rose from the ashes.#SolomonsTemple #AncientHistory #BibleHistory #Babylon #Nebuchadnezzar #OldTestament #JewishHistory #Jerusalem #HistoryPodcastSupport the show:Buy me a coffee! https://buymeacoffee.com/historyofthepapacyPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/historyofthepapacyBuy me a book! https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1MUPNYEU65NTFHave questions, comments or feedback? Here are ways to contact me:Email Us: steve@atozhistorypage.comhttps://www.atozhistorypage.com/podcastMusic Provided by:"Sonatina in C Minor" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Funeral March for Brass" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Crusade Heavy Perfect Loop" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Agnus Dei X - Bitter Suite Kevin MacLeaod (incomptech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this Faith Friday, the Morning Manna class explores Daniel's unwavering faith in a foreign land. Even in Babylonian captivity, Daniel stood firm in his convictions—refusing to defile himself with the king's meat and wine. His respectful, faith-filled resolve led to divine favor and wisdom, echoing the bold spirit of Joseph in Egypt. Today's message is a powerful reminder that God honors those who purpose in their hearts to remain pure, even under pressure.The episode highlights how faith functions with wisdom, tact, and humility. Daniel's story challenges us to trust that God is already working behind the scenes to rearrange our circumstances and grant favor—even from unexpected places. It closes with Holy Communion, emphasizing that faith sustains us and grace rewards us.Rick Wiles, Doc Burkhart. Airdate 6/20/25Join the leading community for Conservative Christians! https://www.FaithandValues.comYou can partner with us by visiting https://www.FaithandValues.com/donate, calling 1-800-576-2116, or by mail at PO Box 399 Vero Beach, FL 32961.Get high-quality emergency preparedness food today from American Reserves!https://www.AmericanReserves.comIt's the Final Day! The day Jesus Christ bursts into our dimension of time, space, and matter. Now available in eBook and audio formats! Order Final Day from Amazon today!https://www.amazon.com/Final-Day-Characteristics-Second-Coming/dp/0578260816/Apple users, you can download the audio version on Apple Books! https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/final-day-10-characteristics-of-the-second-coming/id1687129858Purchase the 4-part DVD set or start streaming Sacrificing Liberty today. https://www.sacrificingliberty.com/watchThe Fauci Elf is a hilarious gift guaranteed to make your friends laugh! Order yours today! https://tru.news/faucielf

In keeping with our intensive study of Israel's history this year, Jenny and I have concentrated our attention on the Exilic and Post-exilic prophets. We've included Jeremiah in this list, even though he spans the immediate pre-exilic period, leading up to the Babylonian exile. The most enigmatic exilic prophet, most certainly, is Ezekiel. His name means "God's strength." We encourage our listeners to struggle with Ezekiel's difficulty, as we believe God has a great deal of undiscovered meaning in this text. Some of the most exciting references, for me, are those to his contemporary prophet-in-exile, Daniel (Ezekiel 14:14, 20 and 28:3). He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

Verse-by-verse through the Book of Jeremiah with Pastor Randy Mosher, Senior Pastor of Calvary Chapel of the Cumberland Valley, in Hagerstown, MD. This study covers Jeremiah 25:1-14 where Jeremiah emphasizes the need for Judah to repent and heed God's warnings, highlighting the impending 70 years of Babylonian rule as a consequence of disobedience. The narrative underscores God's sovereignty, showing how He uses even pagan rulers for His purposes. It calls believers to respond with urgency, pray, and engage actively in their faith, while also focusing on God's promise of restoration after judgment. Presentation Graphics: PDF PowerPoint Study Outline

Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann The Power of a Devoted Life, Part 2 Series: Daniel: Devoted Scripture: Daniel 1 Episode: 1283 In Daniel 1, Daniel and his friends are taken into Babylonian captivity and chosen to serve in King Nebuchadnezzar's court. Despite being offered royal food and wine, Daniel resolves to remain faithful to God's laws by requesting a diet of vegetables and water. God honors their obedience, giving them health, wisdom, and understanding far beyond the others in training. Daniel is also granted special insight into visions and dreams. This chapter highlights themes of faithfulness in exile, spiritual integrity, and God's favor in the midst of cultural pressure.

Welcome to "Messenger to Messiah," our exploration of the timeless message of Malachi on the Gospel Spice podcast. In this first lesson of our six-part series, Stephanie Rousselle, our teacher, walks us through the timely relevance of the Book of Malachi for our contemporary generation. Our series aims to dive into the intricacies of Malachi's message, with an emphasis on its pertinence to today's societal landscape. Stephanie approaches this study with humility and the hope that it serves you meaningfully! You are invited to purchase the workbook that contains everything you need to take your experience of the Book of Malachi deeper! For each of the six lessons, you will find a complete listening guide, questions to go deeper (on your own, with a friend, or a group), as well as a worksheet to study further themes. Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/malachi for more. And BONUS! We're giving you all the workbook content for THIS EPISODE, the first in the series, completely for FREE! Go to  https://www.gospelspice.com/malachi to download it as our gift to you. The Book of Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, addresses the pressing question, "Lord, how have you loved us?" This question, emerging from a context of hardship and perceived abandonment, resonates with the existential uncertainties we often face. This inquiry transcends time, mirroring our own struggles to see God's love during difficult times. Malachi's name, meaning "my messenger," underscores the significant role of his prophecy. The etymology of the name is echoed in Malachi's life, calling and message. Its implications draw parallels between earthly and angelic messengers throughout the Old Testament. We are also offered a detailed historical backdrop, mapping the trajectory from Moses through the judges, kings, and the era of Babylonian exile, leading to the restoration under leaders like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah. This historical perspective enriches our understanding of Malachi's audience—people who had endured a tumultuous past yet stood at the cusp of spiritual revival. Malachi interprets the juxtaposition of God's love for Jacob and rejection of Esau. The discourse around love ('ahav' in Hebrew) emphasizes God's unwavering choices and the perceived enmity of Esau's lineage, the Edomites, against Israel. In looking forward, Malachi's prophecy foreshadows the role of messengers like John the Baptist, preparing the way for Jesus, who is the ultimate Messenger. This anticipation reflects our own call to serve as messengers in the world today, spreading God's love and laying the groundwork for spiritual awakening in the Name of Jesus, our Christ and King. Stephanie concludes by encouraging us to recognize God's love in both blessings and adversities. She challenges us to list God's blessings, seeing His hand in every circumstance, much like Paul's thorn that became an opportunity for divine glorification. This series is an invitation to embrace the words of Malachi not merely as historical accounts, but as vibrant truths applicable in our lives. Malachi urges us to become aware of our roles as God's messengers today. You are invited to journey with us through this series and to seek to understand how God's love permeates every aspect of our existence. We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

When both parties are untrustworthy and cannot take an oath, Rabbi Yosi and Rabbi Meir disagree about the proper procedure. A debate emerges about who holds which opinion, as one maintains the money should be split while the other argues that the oath returns to its original place, though it remains unclear which rabbi said which. Additionally, there is disagreement about the meaning of the position stating "the oath returns to its place." Rabbi Ami explains that one position is held by the rabbis in Israel while the other belongs to the rabbis in Babylonia. Rav Pappa clarifies that the Babylonian rabbis are Rav and Shmuel, while the Israeli position is represented by Rabbi Abba. Shimon ben Tarfon offers several statements concerning the importance of associating with the right people and avoiding the wrong ones. The Gemara examines the case of a storekeeper who was asked to pay someone's workers. The workers claim they never received payment while the storekeeper insists he paid them. The question arises whether Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi agreed with the Mishna's opinion that each party can take an oath to get paid by the employer. Another issue concerns contradictory witness testimony. If two groups of witnesses contradict each other in court, can they be believed to testify in a different case? Or since we know one group certainly lied, should we reject both groups' testimony in future cases? Rav Huna and Rav Chisda each take different positions on this matter.

Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann The Power of a Devoted Life, Part 1 Series: Daniel: Devoted Scripture: Daniel 1 Episode: 1282 In Daniel 1, Daniel and his friends are taken into Babylonian captivity and chosen to serve in King Nebuchadnezzar's court. Despite being offered royal food and wine, Daniel resolves to remain faithful to God's laws by requesting a diet of vegetables and water. God honors their obedience, giving them health, wisdom, and understanding far beyond the others in training. Daniel is also granted special insight into visions and dreams. This chapter highlights themes of faithfulness in exile, spiritual integrity, and God's favor in the midst of cultural pressure.

The prophetic books of Jeremiah, Daniel and Ezekiel mark a radical change in the life of God's people, Israel. Starting with Jeremiah, the Babylonian exile is predicted, and then experienced. Daniel is taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar during Jeremiah's ministry, and after the 586 BC fall of Jerusalem, Ezekiel is called by God to minister to Israel in exile. Indeed, these prophets were aware of each others' ministries, and God's voice in them. Twice Ezekiel refers to Daniel (14:14 and 28:3), and Daniel mentions Jeremiah's prophecies (Daniel 9) as a source of his own prophetic ministry. Reading Jeremiah should be a learning experience par excellence, as getting clear on all its details and references - seeking to understand the discoveries of biblical archaeology that relate to it, and all the history of Israel, including the two kingdoms, their kings and their successes and failures, their faithfulness and their apostasy - sets one up to understand both the whole progression of scripture from Genesis to Revelation, and God's plan of salvation set in place "before the foundation of the world." Listen and read with a mind open to God's voice. Search the scriptures to answer the questions you encounter, search the archaeology to display the truth of God's word verified, search the language to understand better the nuances of God's meaning. Read/listen carefully, reverently and inquisitively, and God will show you amazing things! You have HIS promise on that! We suggest, as usual, starting here: https://youtu.be/RSK36cHbrk0?si=KaJSPPn7n6z7x_Pl

When both parties are untrustworthy and cannot take an oath, Rabbi Yosi and Rabbi Meir disagree about the proper procedure. A debate emerges about who holds which opinion, as one maintains the money should be split while the other argues that the oath returns to its original place, though it remains unclear which rabbi said which. Additionally, there is disagreement about the meaning of the position stating "the oath returns to its place." Rabbi Ami explains that one position is held by the rabbis in Israel while the other belongs to the rabbis in Babylonia. Rav Pappa clarifies that the Babylonian rabbis are Rav and Shmuel, while the Israeli position is represented by Rabbi Abba. Shimon ben Tarfon offers several statements concerning the importance of associating with the right people and avoiding the wrong ones. The Gemara examines the case of a storekeeper who was asked to pay someone's workers. The workers claim they never received payment while the storekeeper insists he paid them. The question arises whether Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi agreed with the Mishna's opinion that each party can take an oath to get paid by the employer. Another issue concerns contradictory witness testimony. If two groups of witnesses contradict each other in court, can they be believed to testify in a different case? Or since we know one group certainly lied, should we reject both groups' testimony in future cases? Rav Huna and Rav Chisda each take different positions on this matter.

Send us a textWe all know the story when Daniel and his friends reject the king's food.  But do you understand what was going on before that?  Have you thought about what life would have been like to be taken captive and thrown in with so many others from foreign lands?  Where did Daniel and his friends get their courage and strength to go against their Babylonian training?Bryan leaves us with a question to ponder at the end of the episode.  Verse 9 says God showed favor to Daniel when the guard denied their request.  How is that God's favor?  You'll have to listen to the next episode to find out. Bryan VanHaitsma is the digital media director for Revive Our Hearts.  He studied at Hope College in Michigan and Jerusalem University College in Israel.  He has a passion for digging into Scriptures that we often find perplexing, helping us understand why that story might be included, and what we are supposed to do in light of that story.Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The book of Isaiah is filled with so many rich passages, and today's chapter is one of them. In this study in Isaiah 43, we'll see God's heart as He lays out His redemptive plan for His people, and we'll see how Jesus came as the prophesied redeemer! Today's podcast is a tad long, but filled with rich truths we need to know! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1. Take a moment to skim Isaiah 42 and the introduction of the New Covenant. What is the overall tone of Isaiah 42? How does verse 1 (of Isaiah 43) demonstrate a shift in this tone? Why do you think the Lord speaks this way to His people now? 2. In verse 1, why should the people not fear? What has the Lord done for them? How has He called you by name? 3. In verse 2, how does the Lord promise to walk with His people? How does the Lord describe Himself in verse 3? Why should this bring comfort to us? 4. Verses 3 & 4 speak of a ransom payment. This is speaking about how God brought punishment on the nations through the Babylonian conquest so that Israel might be (ultimately) freed. In the Old Testament, what is a “ransom” payment? (You may want to turn back to Exodus 30:11-16 or relisten to the podcast on that passage). How were these nations a ransom payment for the redemption of God's people? 5. In verse 5 to 9, from where will the Lord gather His people? In terms of the principles of “mountain range prophecies” (that we've talked about in the past), how was this prophecy initially fulfilled when the Jews returned to Israel under Zerubbabel in 538 BC? How is this prophecy being fulfilled now the Lord draw people to Himself from the nations? How will this prophecy finally be fulfilled when Christ returns? 6. Verses 10 to 13 provides some wonderful gems of truth about the Lord. What are some truths that these verses teach about God? What do they say about the nature of our Savior? How do we see aspects of the Trinity and Jesus' hypostatic union in these verses? 7. In verses 14 to 17, how will the Lord make a way of return for His people? 8. In verses 18 & 19, why do you think the Lord tells His people to not dwell upon His old ways of dealing with them? What is the new work He will do (and has done)? 9. In verse 21, what is a key purpose for God's people? How do you fulfill this purpose in your own life? 10. Verses 22 to 24 return back to the theme of the people's disobedience to the Lord. What is the Lord addressing in these verses? Why would anyone become weary of the Lord (vs 22)? How might someone not honor the Lord with their worship (vs 23)? Why does the Lord call these things a “burden” in verse 24? 11. Read verses 26 to 28 and then think about people's complaints about God. What “case” might the people make to the Lord? What will be the outcome of this argument with Him? 12. In verse 25, what does the Lord promise for His kingdom people? How does this confirm His righteousness? How does this confirm His legitimacy to rule these people? 13. Think back over the principles from this chapter. Has the Lord wiped away your transgressions? He has called you by name? Has He formed the worship you give to Him? Are you trusting in Him to be with you in challenges? How can you grow in these spiritual pursuits? Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

This week, we continue our study of the minor prophets in the book of Joel. The book of Joel shows us that our Creator and Redeemer God is a God of judgment but also a God of mercy who stands ready to restore His people when they come before Him in repentance. This book also points to a time when the Spirit of God would be present in all God's people.Main Points:1. The Day of the Lord is a Day of JudgmentJoel 1–2:11A locust plague devastates the land.This is a covenant curse (Deuteronomy 28:38).It is a foreshadowing of an even greater judgment (Babylonian invasion).Israel is being treated like Egypt for covenant unfaithfulness.

Friday Bible Study (6/6/25) // 2 Kings 20: 12-21 // Visit our website: https://mbchicago.org Follow us to remain connected: Facebook:   / mbc.chicago   Instagram:   / mbc.chicago   TikTok:   / mbc.chicago   Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others To support this ministry, you can donate via: Zelle to: info@mbchicago.org Website: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but... 2 Kings 20: 12-21 (ESV)Hezekiah and the Babylonian Envoys12 At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent envoys with letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that Hezekiah had been sick. 13 And Hezekiah welcomed them, and he showed them all his treasure house, the silver, the gold, the spices, the precious oil, his armory, all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his house or in all his realm that Hezekiah did not show them. 14 Then Isaiah the prophet came to King Hezekiah, and said to him, “What did these men say? And from where did they come to you?” And Hezekiah said, “They have come from a far country, from Babylon.” 15 He said, “What have they seen in your house?” And Hezekiah answered, “They have seen all that is in my house; there is nothing in my storehouses that I did not show them.”16 Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the Lord: 17 Behold, the days are coming, when all that is in your house, and that which your fathers have stored up till this day, shall be carried to Babylon. Nothing shall be left, says the Lord. 18 And some of your own sons, who will come from you, whom you will father, shall be taken away, and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.” 19 Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “Why not, if there will be peace and security in my days?”20 The rest of the deeds of Hezekiah and all his might and how he made the pool and the conduit and brought water into the city, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah? 21 And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and Manasseh his son reigned in his place.#mbchicago #2kings #BibleStudy #DanielBatarseh #mbchicago #mbcchicago #Bible #livechurch #churchlive #chicagochurch #chicagochurches #versebyverse #church #chicago #sermon #bibleexplained #bibleproject #bibleverse #bookbybook #oldtestament #explained

Welcome to Day 2649 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2649 – New Testament Orientation – The Book of Acts: The Spirit's Unstoppable Journey Putnam Church Message – 06/08/2025 Sermon Series: New Testament Orientation Message 7: The Book of Acts: The Spirit's Unstoppable Journey.   Last week, we explored: Jesus' Message to Gentiles & Jews - the Cross Core Verses: Hebrews 3:1-2 Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) This week is Messager: 7 of 12 Title: The Book of Acts: The Spirit's Unstoppable Journey. Core Verses: Acts 1:8 Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) Today is Pentecost, 50 days after the Resurrection Sunday. On this day, many representatives of the Israelites who had been taken into exile in the Assyria and Babylonian empires were in Jerusalem. The countries mentioned are also very similar to the nations dispersed at the Tower of Babbel being reunited again. The dispersed nations were being reunited to begin the construction of God's kingdom throughout the known world. As we get started this morning, let me set the stage by reading the account of Pentecost from Acts 2:1-12 On the day of Pentecost[a] all the believers were meeting together in one place. 2 Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. 3 Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. 4 And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages,[b] as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. 5 At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. 6 When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. 7 They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee, 8 and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages! 9 Here we are—Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, 10 Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!” 12 They stood there amazed and perplexed. “What can this mean?” they asked each other. The precursor to this passage is our core verse for today: Core Verses: Acts 1:8 (NLT) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in...