Podcasts about Balaam

The Letter of Jude E5 — In verses 11-16, Jude continues warning his Jewish messianic audience about deceptive, immoral people infiltrating their house churches. He compares them to three characters from the Hebrew Bible—Cain, Balaam, and Korah—who choose rebellion for themselves and lead others astray. Next, he compares the corrupt church members to a series of images from Scripture, including selfish shepherds, rainless clouds, and wandering stars. In this episode, Jon and Tim continue exploring Jude's dense prose, where he seamlessly weaves together allusions to the Hebrew Bible and Second-Temple period literature into a piercing critique of imposters within a community of disciples.FULL SHOW NOTESFor chapter-by-chapter summaries, referenced Scriptures, and reflection questions, check out the full show notes for this episode.CHAPTERSCain, Balaam, and Korah (0:00-23:23)Six Images of Corrupt Leaders (23:23-37:45)The Prophecy of Enoch (37:45-55:42)OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPTView this episode's official transcript.BIBLEPROJECT JUDE TRANSLATIONView our full translation of the Letter of Jude.REFERENCED RESOURCESAntiquities of the Jews by JosephusCheck out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here.SHOW MUSIC“Gentle Lamb” by Lofi Sunday, Yoni Charis“Purple Clouds ft. Marc Vanparla” by Lofi SundayBibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITSProduction of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty writes the show notes. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Illuminated Woman, I'm diving into one of the strangest, most eye-opening sections of the Old Testament—Numbers 21 - 24. These chapters are filled with unexpected messengers: a fiery serpent, a talking donkey, and a corrupt oracle. And yet, each one is used by God to confront, correct, and protect.I share a personal story about how one small word - church - kept showing up in my life during the summer of 2024. I didn't want it. I tried to ignore it. But just like the serpent in the wilderness, the donkey on the road, or the prophetic blessing spoken by Balaam, it was the unexpected thing God used to open my eyes.This episode is for the woman who's been hearing a whisper she didn't expect. The one who's unsure if God could really be speaking through pain, people she dismissed, or even circumstances that feel confrontational. We'll unpack what these strange messengers reveal about God's protection, His holiness, and the way He opens the eyes of His daughters - even when they've been wandering.

To get a copy of our new book "Embracing the Truth" or to have TS Wright speak at your event or conference or if you simply want spiritual or life coaching or just a consultation visit:www.tswrightspeaks.comVisit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation.www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.TS Wright Speaks: Church in Pergamum Revelation 2:12-17Introduction: In the third chapter of Revelation, we encounter the Church in Pergamum, a community grappling with the challenges of faith amid a culture steeped in idolatry and immorality. This podcast episode dives deep into the lessons Jesus imparts to this church, offering timeless wisdom that resonates with believers today.Main Content: **The Context of Pergamum** The Church in Pergamum existed in a city notorious for its pagan worship and idol practices, symbolized by the phrase "where the throne of Satan sits." TS Wright highlights that this church was located right in the midst of spiritual warfare, a battleground where faith and culture collided. Despite the overwhelming presence of evil, members of the church held fast to their faith, demonstrating remarkable courage and commitment.**Commendation for Faithfulness** Jesus begins His message with commendation, acknowledging the church's perseverance even in the face of persecution. TS Wright points out the significance of this acknowledgment, especially regarding Antipas, a faithful witness who was killed for his beliefs. This serves as a powerful reminder that true faith often requires sacrifice, and believers today must also hold fast to their convictions despite cultural pressures.**Warnings Against Compromise** However, the message is not solely one of encouragement. Jesus issues a stern warning against those in the church who have adopted the teachings of Balaam and the Nicolaitans, practices that led to idolatry and sexual immorality. TS Wright emphasizes that just as the early church faced temptations to conform to cultural norms, modern believers must also guard against the subtle ways in which culture can infiltrate their faith. He urges listeners to recognize the importance of living a life that is set apart, above the moral compromises prevalent in society.**The Call to Repentance** A key theme in this message is the call to repentance. TS Wright elucidates that repentance is a process, not just a one-time confession. It involves a deep heart transformation, turning away from sin, and taking active steps towards obedience. He reminds believers that while the journey may be challenging, the promise of restoration and a new identity in Christ awaits those who repent. **Living Above Culture** In a world where cultural acceptance is often equated with success, TS Wright's insights challenge believers to prioritize their relationship with Jesus above all else. He discusses the dangers of becoming a "carnal Christian," attempting to blend faith with worldly ideologies. Instead, he encourages a commitment to living out the teachings of Christ, even when it comes at a personal cost. The podcast underscores the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between faith and culture, particularly in moments of conflict.Conclusion: The message to the Church in Pergamum serves as a timely reminder for contemporary believers to navigate their faith with courage and conviction. Key takeaways include the...

Why does God tell Balaam to go with the Moabites and then get angry because he went? Why did God seemingly change His mind?

Spiritual evil is real. But it is no match for our Holy God! This week in Numbers 22:1-35, we learn how to respond to the idolatry, witchcraft, and superstition that is growing more and more prevalent in our culture.Got a question about this teaching or a teaching from this series? ⁠⁠Submit it here!⁠⁠About Music Track: Track: Inspirational Flight Artist: AShamaluevMusic Owner: Aleksandr Shamaluev.

Jim Morris in conversation with David Eastaugh  https://balaamandtheangel.co.uk/ Balaam and the Angel are a rock band founded by Mark, James (Jim), and Desmond (Des) Morris  in 1984. Initially the band self-released a series of EPs and an album entitled Sun Family via their own Chapter 22 and played some tour dates opening for The Cult. This caught the attention of Virgin Records, who signed them and released their debut album, The Greatest Story Ever Told. They toured in the USA with Kiss and label mate Iggy Pop.

Pastor Mike teaches about the devil’s tactic, as seen with Balaam. The devil uses relationships with people who do not believe like you, to try and hinder you. Audio>

Battling Lust and Pornography  Part 7:  The Curse of Balaam  -  English only.   How powerful is lust? A lesson from over 3000 years ago, will still be relevant at the end of time!    Recorded November 6, 2025.

In this Thinking Talmudist episode on Gittin 56b-57a, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the dramatic aftermath of the Temple's destruction through Titus's deathbed fear of divine judgment (scattering his ashes over seven seas to evade accountability) and Onkelos's necromantic consultations with Titus, Balaam, and Jewish sinners—all affirming Jewish prominence in the World to Come while warning against joining or harming Israel.The Talmud contrasts: idolaters' prophets (like Balaam) advise attacking Jews for worldly leadership, while even Jewish sinners urge seeking Jewish benefit ("one who touches them touches the apple of His eye"). Punishments fit measure-for-measure: Titus scattered eternally, Balaam in boiling semen for seduction schemes.Rabbi Wolbe connects this to modern miracles (e.g., a Yemenite missile landing harmlessly near Tel Aviv's airport on May 4, 2025) as Hashem's "hug" reminding us of divine control—not military might or technology. He stresses humility, gratitude, and recognizing "there is no happenstance" (mikre = only from Hashem), urging constant awareness that everything is Hashem's precise guidance.The episode emphasizes living with eternal perspective: prioritize Torah, mitzvot, and family over fleeting materialism, as we'll face judgment on maximizing our unique potential ("Why weren't you you?")._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on December 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 9, 2026_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content._____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Gittin, #Kamtza, #Temple, #JewishHistory, #Exile, #Yochanan, #Vespasian, #Titus, #Blasphemy, #Yavne ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Thinking Talmudist episode on Gittin 56b-57a, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the dramatic aftermath of the Temple's destruction through Titus's deathbed fear of divine judgment (scattering his ashes over seven seas to evade accountability) and Onkelos's necromantic consultations with Titus, Balaam, and Jewish sinners—all affirming Jewish prominence in the World to Come while warning against joining or harming Israel.The Talmud contrasts: idolaters' prophets (like Balaam) advise attacking Jews for worldly leadership, while even Jewish sinners urge seeking Jewish benefit ("one who touches them touches the apple of His eye"). Punishments fit measure-for-measure: Titus scattered eternally, Balaam in boiling semen for seduction schemes.Rabbi Wolbe connects this to modern miracles (e.g., a Yemenite missile landing harmlessly near Tel Aviv's airport on May 4, 2025) as Hashem's "hug" reminding us of divine control—not military might or technology. He stresses humility, gratitude, and recognizing "there is no happenstance" (mikre = only from Hashem), urging constant awareness that everything is Hashem's precise guidance.The episode emphasizes living with eternal perspective: prioritize Torah, mitzvot, and family over fleeting materialism, as we'll face judgment on maximizing our unique potential ("Why weren't you you?")._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on December 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 9, 2026_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content._____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Gittin, #Kamtza, #Temple, #JewishHistory, #Exile, #Yochanan, #Vespasian, #Titus, #Blasphemy, #Yavne ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Sunday Service message from New Creation Church, Pastor Nate Rauschert explores how obedience to God—especially when the outcome isn't clear—can lead to life-changing and generational impact. This sermon challenges believers to examine where God may be inviting them to say yes today. Through biblical examples such as the disciples leaving their nets, Ananias' courageous obedience, and Balaam's warning against partial surrender, this message encourages listeners to fully trust God with every area of life.

He was born in Rome, and as a young man was chosen by the Emperor Constantine to assist in the foundation of his new capital at Byzantium. An outbreak of leprosy in the new City became so severe that the Emperor ordered that all lepers, whatever their rank, be driven from the city or drowned in the sea. Zoticus, moved by compassion for these people, went to the Emperor and asked him for a large amount of gold to buy gems and pearls to enhance the glory of the city, 'For, as Your Majesty knows, I am well-qualified in this field.' The Saint then used the gold to ransom all those being led into exile or to drowning, and to establish for them a camp on the hill of Olivet on the opposite shore of the Bosphorus. There he brought the sick and provided for their care.   In 337 Constantius, an Arian heretic, took the throne upon the death of his father. Some of Zoticus' enemies at court, seeing an opportunity, denounced Zoticus to the new Emperor, saying that he not only held subversive views, but had misappropriated public money. When he learned of these charges, Zoticus presented himself to the Emperor, finely dressed, and offered to take Constantius to see the gems and pearls that he had bought on his behalf. When they reached the hill of Olivet, Constantius was astonished to see a company of lepers coming to greet him with lighted candles, honoring and praising him and their patron Zoticus. Then the holy Zoticus said to the Emperor, 'These are the precious stones and brilliant pearls that give luster to the crown of the heavenly Kingdom that you will inherit by their prayers. I bought them for the salvation of your soul.'   Instead of being grateful, the heartless Emperor ordered that Zoticus be tied behind wild mules and dragged until dead. The mules ran down the hill, breaking the Saint's body upon the rocks and brush. Then, of their own accord, they returned to the top of the hill, still dragging the body, and, like Balaam's ass (Numbers ch. 22), spoke and proclaimed that the Martyr must be buried on that hill. The astonished and repentant Emperor ordered the Martyr buried with honor, and commanded that a hospital for lepers be built there, staffed by the best physicians and caretakers.   Saint Zoticus is also called Orphanotrophos, 'Cherisher of Orphans,' because in later years a large orphanage was added to the leprosarium. The orphanage included a general hospital and a home for the aged. The Saint was honored throughout Byzantine history as the patron of the orphanage.

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-735995925390297f16d8b5e92cfdbbd5{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-735995925390297f16d8b5e92cfdbbd5 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-735995925390297f16d8b5e92cfdbbd5 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 02 – December 30Revelation 2:8-17 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – December 30 Revelation 2:8-17 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/02-1230db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Revelation 2 Letter to the Church in Smyrna 8 To the messenger of the church in Smyrna write: The First and the Last, who was dead and came to life again, says this: 9 I know [1] your suffering and your poverty—but you are rich. And I know the blasphemy that comes from those who say they are Jews but are not; rather, they are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear anything that [2] you are about to suffer. Look, the Devil is about to throw some of you into prison so that you will be tested, and you will suffer for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 Whoever has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death. Letter to the Church in Pergamum 12 To the messenger of the church in Pergamum write: The one who has the sharp, two-edged sword says this: 13 I know [3] where you live—where the throne of Satan is. And I know that you hold fast to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me even in the days when Antipas, my faithful witness, [4] was put to death near you, the place where Satan lives. 14 But I have a few things against you: You have some people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who instructed Balak to put a stumbling block in front of the children of Israel so that they would eat things offered to idols and commit sexual immorality. 15 Likewise, you also have some people who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Therefore, [5] repent! If not, I will come to you soon, and I will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 Whoever has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious I will give some of the hidden manna. [6] I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, which no one will know except the one who receives it. Footnotes Revelation 2:9 A few witnesses to the text add your works. Revelation 2:10 Some witnesses to the text read Do not fear what. Revelation 2:13 A few witnesses to the text add your works and. Revelation 2:13 Or martyr Revelation 2:16 Some witnesses to the text omit Therefore. Revelation 2:17 A few witnesses to the text add to eat. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

(This is a sermon I preached earlier this year at First Assembly of God in Carl Junction)There is so much to pick apart in Balaam's story. There are a lot more strange things going on than just a talking donkey.For example, in the first chapter where Balaam appears, he does exactly what God says, and then it says that God wanted to kill him for it.  Some men approached Balaam and asked him to curse the Israelites for them, and here's what it said:Numbers 22:20-2220 And God came to Balaam at night and said to him, “If the men have come to call you, rise, go with them; but only do what I tell you.” 21 So Balaam rose in the morning and saddled his donkey and went with the princes of Moab.So far so good, right? God says go. Balaam goes. 22 But God's anger was kindled because he went, and the angel of the Lord took his stand in the way as his adversary.It will even say later that this angel of the Lord was standing there to literally kill Balaam! But why- wasn't Balaam doing exactly what God wanted? That's the question we're going to analyze in this message.Watch these episodes at my Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LukeTaylorPodcastsNeed to get in touch with me? Reach me at GodAndHisProphetsPodcast@gmail.comIf you're looking for a Bible study podcast that goes deep into the major and minor prophets, God and His Prophets offers a verse by verse Bible study through these powerful Old Testament writings. Each episode explores the prophecy in the Bible, from the Book of Ezekiel study and later in Zechariah, helping listeners in understanding prophetic books and seeing their relevance today. We also connect the prophets' words to end times Bible teaching and highlight connections to Revelation, giving you a Christian Bible commentary that equips you for spiritual insight and growth.

Send us a textWe trace the road from Nazareth to Bethlehem and show how ancient prophecies meet real history in the birth of Jesus. From Micah and Isaiah to the Magi's star and the tears at Rama, we follow a thread of humility, courage and steadfast hope.• Roman census as the hinge of providence• Micah's Bethlehem promise fulfilled in detail• Isaiah's Emmanuel realized in Mary's fiat• Davidic lineage and the shape of true kingship• Shepherds as first witnesses and messengers of joy• The manger as a sign of poverty and glory• The star, the Magi and Balaam's oracle• Rachel's weeping and the innocence of martyrdom• Flight into Egypt and Hosea's echo of deliverance• Joseph's silent obedience as a model of faith• A call to live fulfilled prophecy with courageBlessed Christmas from Journeys of Faith be sure to click the link in the description for special news item and since there is more to this article finish reading and check out the special offerBlessed Christmas from Journeys of FaithOpen by Steve Bailey Support the showJourneys of Faith brings your Super Saints Podcasts ***Our Core Beliefs*** The Eucharist is the Source and Summit of our Faith." Catechism 132 Click Here “This is the will of God, your sanctification.” 1Thessalonians 4“ Click Here ... lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven...” Matthew 6:19-2 Click Here The Goal is Heaven Click Here Why you should shop here at Journeys of Faith official site! Lowest Prices and Higher discounts up to 50% Free Shipping starts at $18 - Express Safe Checkout Click Here Cannot find it let us find or create it - - Click Here Rewards Program is active - ...

NOTAS DE ELENAMaterial complementario de la escuela Sabática para adultosNarrado por: Patty CuyanDesde: California, USAUna cortesía de DR'Ministries y Canaan Seventh-Day Adventist ChurchJUEVES, 25 DE DICIEMBREUN BUEN FINALEl carácter santo de Josué no ostentaba mancha alguna. Era un sabio dirigente. Su vida estaba totalmente dedicada a Dios. Antes de morir reunió a las huestes hebreas y siguiendo el ejemplo de Moisés recapituló sus peregrinaciones por el desierto y también la obra misericordiosa llevada a cabo por el Señor en favor de ellos. Acto seguido les habló con elocuencia. Les contó que el rey de Moab estaba en guerra con ellos y había llamado a Balaam para que los maldijera; pero Dios no quiso "escuchar a Balaam, por lo cual os bendijo repetidamente". Después les dijo: "Y si mal os parece servir a Jehová, escogeos hoy a quien sirváis; si a los dioses a quienes sirvieron vuestros padres cuando estuvieron al otro lado del río, o a los dioses de los amorreos en cuya tierra habitáis; pero yo y mi casa serviremos a Jehová". "Entonces el pueblo respondió y dijo: Nunca tal acontezca, que dejemos a Jehová para servir a otros dioses; porque Jehová nuestro Dios es el que nos sacó a nosotros y a nuestros padres de la tierra de Egipto, de la casa de servidumbre; el que ha hecho estas grandes señales y nos ha guardado por todo el camino por donde hemos andado, y en todos los pueblos por entre los cuales pasamos". El pueblo renovó su pacto con Josué. Le dijeron: "A Jehová nuestro Dios serviremos, y su voz obedeceremos". Josué escribió las palabras de este pacto en el libro que contenía las leyes y los estatutos dados a Moisés. Recibió el amor y el respeto de todo Israel, y su muerte fue sumamente lamentada (La historia de la redención, pp. 185, 186). El alma que mantiene encendido el amor de Cristo está llena de libertad, de luz y gozo en Cristo. En un alma tal no hay pensamientos divididos. El hombre entero desea ardientemente a Dios. No acude a los hombres en busca de consejo, para conocer su deber, sino al Señor Jesús, la fuente de toda sabiduría. Investiga la Palabra de Dios para encontrar en ella cuanta norma haya sido establecida... Cuanto más aprendemos de Cristo por su Palabra, tanto más sentimos nuestra necesidad de él en nuestra experiencia. No deberíamos descansar hasta que podamos descansar al llevar el yugo de Cristo y sus cargas. Cuanto más fieles seamos en su servicio, tanto más lo amaremos, tanto más lo ensalzaremos. Todo deber, grande o pequeño, que realicemos, será hecho con fidelidad, y al seguir conociendo a nuestro Señor, tanto mayor será nuestro deseo de glorificarlo (En los lugares celestiales, p. 144). VIERNES, 26 DE DICIEMBRE: PARA ESTUDIAR Y MEDITAREn los lugares celestiales, "La demanda del Padre celestial", 1° de mayo, p. 130. A fin de conocerle, “Un mensaje para los muchachos y las niñas”, 4 de febrero, p. 42.

IntroductionThere are two kinds of people in God's kingdom. Some are in the covenant line, and others are outside the covenant line. Matthew captures this by showing us that there are insiders (God's covenant people) and outsiders (those who are not directly tied to Abraham by their family line). Matthew addresses the issue of whether or not the outsiders can be part of the family or if those who are inside the family can be outcasts. What determines this classification? Outside God's FamilyMatthew begins with the Magi. These men would be pagan Gentiles from the East. They would be astrologers who would advise kings. These are not men that we would see as sympathetic to the Israelites. However, they follow a start that they see in the distance. They come to the holy city, and they encounter Herod the king. One wonders if they will allow this jealous man to discover Christ and execute him. Well, they protect Christ and seek to worship him. The start that they follow is the fulfillment of Numbers 24:17. The great prophet Balaam was going to control the living God. Ironically, he could only speak the Lord's word. He prophesied the star that would rise from Jacob. This star is promised to be victorious. The star testifies to the fulfillment of God's prophecy through the prophet for hire, Balaam. The men who were supposed to hate God came to worship God. Inside God's FamilyIronically, Jerusalem should rejoice the most. This is the city that literally means, “Vision of Peace.” They should want to commune with God. The vision of peace is communion with the living God. If the messiah has arrived, Jerusalem should celebrate. We read that Herod and all Jerusalem were troubled. How can this city be troubled by the “Prince of Peace” Arriving in the city of peace? The problem is that they love their earthly kingdom and have lost sight of the heavenly one. The problem is that the insiders lost sight of what it means to be insiders. The wise men/magi/magicians/advisoers leave. They see the star and they are exceedingly joyful rather than troubled. One has to continually align with the Lord's priorities as one walks by faith in the Spirit. It does not matter if one has the covenant lineage. It is taking hold of the substance of faith, Jesus Christ, that determines one's identity. In the FamilyThe city of Jerusalem is troubled, but the pagans from the east have exceeding joy when they see the star above Christ's dwelling. They journey to the home. The men who are used to the finest banquets enjoy peasant hospitality. The gifts that they offer call to our attention that the Old Testament promise is realized. Psalm 72, Isaiah, and we think of the Queen of Sheba giving Solomon gifts. This shows that they are pledging homage and honoring Christ as king. The picture here is hilarious. These are very prestitious men who gather together to worship Christ the King. They do this despite the earthly appearance. These men are not threatened by the king or the peasant surroundings. They look beyond what they see with their eyes and see with the eyes of faith that the shalom/peace of heaven does not function on fallen worldly terms. The insiders will see Christ despite our worldly expectations. The Spirit will enlighten us to see who the Lord is. We will respond in faith as we walk in the power of the Spirit. ConclusionChrist came into the world to make strangers into sons and daughters. Those who, like the Magi, lay aside their pride. They bow before Him to worship him despite his humble presentation. They empty themselves of their worldly significance. As a result, they find themselves as members of the household of God. it is only in Christ that one finds their true identity in Christ.

Is it possible to read the Balaam narrative of Numbers 22-24 cohesively? Ben Wiggershaus says, “Yes,” and part of his solution is in reading the Balaam Cycle in light of its ancient Near Eastern context. Tune in as we speak with Ben Wiggershaus about his recent monograph, The Man of Opened Eye: Ancient Near Eastern Revelatory Convention and the Balaam Cycle (Gorgias Press, 2025). Ben Wiggershaus holds a PhD in Biblical Studies from Asbury Theological Seminary, and is Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies and Ministry at Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Is it possible to read the Balaam narrative of Numbers 22-24 cohesively? Ben Wiggershaus says, “Yes,” and part of his solution is in reading the Balaam Cycle in light of its ancient Near Eastern context. Tune in as we speak with Ben Wiggershaus about his recent monograph, The Man of Opened Eye: Ancient Near Eastern Revelatory Convention and the Balaam Cycle (Gorgias Press, 2025). Ben Wiggershaus holds a PhD in Biblical Studies from Asbury Theological Seminary, and is Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies and Ministry at Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Is it possible to read the Balaam narrative of Numbers 22-24 cohesively? Ben Wiggershaus says, “Yes,” and part of his solution is in reading the Balaam Cycle in light of its ancient Near Eastern context. Tune in as we speak with Ben Wiggershaus about his recent monograph, The Man of Opened Eye: Ancient Near Eastern Revelatory Convention and the Balaam Cycle (Gorgias Press, 2025). Ben Wiggershaus holds a PhD in Biblical Studies from Asbury Theological Seminary, and is Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies and Ministry at Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biblical-studies

Matthew 2:1-12 Wise Men, a Con Man, and a King Please turn to Matthew chapter 2. This is a very well-known advent passage about the wise men from the east bringing gifts to Jesus. There's a lot of mystery and wonder in this text. Part of that is because we're not given many details about the wise men. However, we are clearly given their goal. And so, as I read, listen for why they were seeking Jesus and what they did when they found him. Reading of Matthew 2:1-12. Prayer In our house, you'll find several nativity scenes at this time of year. They're festive and add to the aura of the season. But you know, they don't really accurately depict the manger scene. And one of the inaccuracies is with the three wise men. Most nativity scenes have them. They're usually tall, wearing middle-eastern attire, and bearing gifts as they stand next to the animals. Well, first of all, we're never told how many there were. Yes, they had three gifts, but that does not mean there were only three of them. And second, they did not arrive when Jesus was born. No, actually, they arrived likely when he was 1 year old. They weren't there to see Jesus in the manger. I'm not trying to be the grinch and steal your Christmas joy. Rather, I just want to be sure we distinguish what we actually know versus what tradition has come up with over the centuries. There's a big difference. So, then, what do we know? Who were these wise men led by a star to Jerusalem and then to Jesus? Well, we are told they were from the east and we are given a clue of there origin base on their name. The name “wise men” comes from the Greek word magoi. Some translations give them the title of Magi. It's a word derived from the Persian word for wise men. And because of that, some believe that the Magi came from where the Medo-Persian empire was centered (which is where modern day Iran is). Others believe that the Magi came from the region where the Babylonian empire used to be centered. That's where modern day Iraq is. There are good reasons for both possibilities. If we go back to the book of Daniel, it uses a very similar word for the wise men of the land. Daniel, as you may know, lived in Babylon in exile. Similarly, the book of Esther, which takes place in the Persian capital, also uses a similar word for wise men. In both cases, the Greek translation of the Old Testament uses the word magoi. And honestly, I don't think it makes much of a difference whether the Magi came from Medo-Persian roots or Babylonian roots. Even though these empires were centered in adjacent regions in the middle east, they overlapped as each kingdom took control. A few decades after Babylon conquered the whole region, they were then overthrown by the Medes and then the Persians. After that it was the Greeks under Alexander the Great who conquered the land, and then Roman Empire, which was in control when Jesus was born. And when these empires overthrew one another, it's not like they killed all the people. No, the people just were under the control of another kingdom. Yes, some of them moved out or were exiled. Others moved in to govern, but overall, the culture and history were preserved or intermixed with the new empire in power. Furthermore, when we consider the Babylonians and the Medes and the Persians, they each had their wise men. We know this from the Old Testament text as well as from historical writings from the time. The Magi were the highest educated men of the land. They were given utmost respect and they had major influence in the culture. In fact, extra Biblical writings about the Medes particularly emphasize this. Someone could not become a king in that empire without first the same rigorous study as the wise men. Even more, in the Median Empire, it was the wise men who anointed the king. Think about the significance of tht if the Matthew 2 wise men came from that region. The bottom line is that the Magi who were led to Jerusalem were held in the highest esteem and had significant cultural prominence. Now, let me mention something else important. These Magi knew some of the Hebrew Scriptures. Let me make that case. First, let's go back to Babylon. When Babylon overthrew Judah in the early 5th century BC, thousands and thousands of Jews were relocated to Babylon. They brought their culture with them. They brought their history and they brought their writings. Even when they were later permitted to return to Jerusalem, most of them remained in Babylon and some even intermarried with the Babylonians. Not only that, think of the testimony of Daniel and of Shadrach, Meshach and Abendego. Their wisdom and faithfulness earned them great status in the Babylonian Kingdom. King Nebuchadnezzar found them 10 time wiser than the wise men and enchanters of the region. That's mentioned in Daniel chapter 1. And when they were put to the test, God delivered each of them - you know, the three thrown in the fiery furnace, and Daniel from the Lion's den. After each incident, it was the Babylonian king who decreed that the one true God should be worshipped and served. These men were furthermore elevated to a high standing in the land. Daniel himself ended up being promoted to the third highest position in the entire Babylonian kingdom. You see, their wisdom, wisdom from God, became part of the wisdom of the land. A very similar thing happened in the Medo-Persian empire. Esther in the Old Testament was Jewish, but she was chosen to be queen by the Persian King. Some of you know the history. A plot was made against all the Jewish people in the land. They were to be slaughtered, but through the wisdom of Esther and her uncle, that plot was turned against the perpetrators. In the end, it was the Jewish people who prospered in all 127 provinces of the kingdom. It mentions from India to Ethiopia. Here is my point. Whether the wise men from the east came from a Babylonian heritage or from a Medo-Persian heritage, the wisdom of the land included wisdom from God almighty. Their education would have included testimonies of God's people and their teaching, which God had spread all throughout the east. So, these Magi, who were the highest learned men in the near Eastern culture, would have studied and known the God of Israel, and his prophecies, and the wisdom given his people. Perhaps they knew Balaam's prophecy from Numbers 24 that “a star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel.” So, yes, they came from the east, but they were not unfamiliar with what God had revealed and the prophecies of the Messiah. Now, we are not told what prompted them to leave their country and follow a star to Jerusalem. They may have been given a vision given by God in a dream (you know, similar to the dream they were given in verse 12); or it may have been an angel appearing to them similar to how angels appeared to Mary and Joseph and the shepherds. Or, as some have suggested, it may have been their studies of the Jewish Scriptures and the timing of the Messiah. We don't know, but whatever means God used, they knew that they were to seek the promised king who had come… and that he was worthy to be worshiped. Notice what they said when they arrived in Jerusalem. Verse 2. They asked: “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” Now, given the prominence and status of these Magi, their arrival in Jerusalem came with great acknowledgment. We know that because word of their arrival and their question.. filtered all the way up to King Herod. By the way, this Herod was Herod the Great. That is how he was known. Multiple Herods are mentioned in the New Testament. All of them are descendants of this Herod, Herod the Great. And none of them reached the prominence and power of their father or grandfather. This Herod was even given the title “king of the Jews” by the Roman senate. He wasn't even Jewish. This Herod is the one who built the great city Caesarea by the sea. He similarly constructed the mountaintop fortress of Masada in the south. This is the same Herod who ordered the massive renovation of the temple. He did this to try to please the Jews and solidify his title. If you remember, the temple had been rebuilt some 500 years earlier by some of the exiles who had returned. However, Herod transformed and refined it. He doubled the size of the temple mount. And he had the temple adorned with gold plates, and had it covered in white marble. The Jews appreciated this, of course, but it didn't change their opinion of him. In fact, in 2007 (you know, less than 20 years ago) archaeologists actually found Herod's tomb. It was inside the massive fortress that he built near Bethlehem called the Herodium. When they found it, they also found that Herod's sarcophagus had been smashed to pieces. You see, the Jews hated Herod the Great. It's likely, back in the first century, a group made their way into the chamber and destroyed his coffin and did something with his bones. That is because Herod was not a just ruler. He had his first wife executed, including his mother-in-law. He also executed three of his sons. And he had dozen of opponents killed, including high priests and pharisees. Now, look at verse 3. When Herod heard about the wise men and that they were seeking the newborn king of the Jews, it says Herod was troubled. This larger-than-life ruler of the land, who had political and military power, was troubled. Of course he was. These renowned Magi from the east had arrived and they were seeking a new king of the Jews. But that was Herod's title. Do you see why he asked the Magi in verse 8 to find the child born a King? It was not, as Herod had said, so that he could also worship him. No, not at all. Herod was a con man and a tyrant. He wanted to put to death yet another potential threat to his power. Herod did not know where to find this newborn king, so he did two things. First, he asked the priests and scribes. They mentioned Isaiah's prophecy about Bethlehem. Well, that wasn't narrow enough, so second, Herod met with the Magi. He asked them to return to him after finding the newborn king. Well, as the text mentions later, the Magi were warned about Herod in a dream. And so, Herod would never get his wish. So, the Magi were in Jerusalem. Herod had met with them. They knew they needed to travel further, but exactly where, they did not know. But just like before, a star rose to guide them. This star is mentioned four times in Matthew 2. It had brought them west from their country to Jerusalem. The star then turned them south towards Bethlehem. And it led them to the very house where Mary and Josph and baby Jesus were staying. But you ask, how can a star, high in the heavens above lead to a specific home? This is why I believe that it was more of a supernatural star-like object in the sky. Afterall, it moved. It turned them from heading west to south, and then it was able to bring them to a specific place. As verse 9 says, it came to rest over the place where the child was. So, the Magi arrived. Now, in a minute, I want to come back to what they did at that moment. But first, let's consider their gifts. They had brought gifts with them from the east. We sing about them and hear them often at this time of year. The Magi brought gold, and frankincense (not Frankenstein), and they brought myrrh. Now, different scholars have postulated different meanings for the gifts. Some have simply said the gifts were merely a royal tribute. In other words, the Magi brought expensive gifts as they would for any king. Others have suggested that each gift signified something. I think that's likely the case. Let me work that out. First, the gift of gold. Just like today, it was the most precious of metals. It was hard to find and hard to mine. Gold had many uses, but one prominent use of gold was for a king. You know, crowns were made mainly of gold. Kings drank from vessels of gold and they wore golden rings. They carried golden scepters. All those uses are highlighted in various passages in the Scriptures. Of course, gold was not exclusively used for kings, but it's reasonable to conclude that in the giving of gold by the wise men, they were acknowledging Jesus as a king. Second, they also brought him frankincense. It's a strange word. At its core is the word incense. And that is what it was. It came from a rare tree that grew in East Africa. Frankincense is referenced many times in the Old Testament as a fragrant perfume. Most often it was used in the temple by the priests including the high priest. Now, here's the important part. In it's temple use, Frankincense was reserved for incense and sacrificial anointing for Yahweh – for God. It's even referred to as Yahweh's incense. So, it's reasonable to conclude that the Frankincense signified Jesus' divine nature and his priestly role. Which brings us to the last gift. Myrrh. It was a perfume. It was used as a beautiful fragrance for women. You can find it referenced multiple times in the Song of Solomon. Elsewhere in the Scriptures, it's mentioned as a fragrance for clothing. But also, it was used as one of the burial spices. The bottom line is that Myrrh was a fragrance for man – you know, mankind. So, it was different from Frankincense which was reserved in the temple use for Yahweh. Myrrh was instead used for the people. As one commentator put it, “it was a perfume used by and in the interest of… man to make his life more pleasant… and his burial less repulsive.” So, as a gift from the Magi, Myrrh likely signified Jesus' humanity and perhaps his atoning death. In sum, the gifts brought by the Magi testified to who this child was. In the very least, the gifts testified to his kingship. But likely they furthermore testified to the fulness of Jesus divine nature and the fulness of his humanity. In his humanity he was, at that time, a young child born a king, but in his deity, he had existed from eternity past as God the Son. And he had come. The Magi knew and they testified to the wonder and awe of who this child was. He was worthy for them to worship. And I want you to notice something significant. Before the Magi even entered the house, look what verse 10 says. They rejoiced with exceedingly great joy! They gave praise to God for leading them to Jesus. They recognized the significance of that moment in history and that God had brought them to this place, to this child king. And after that, the Magi entered and it says they fell-down before him and worshiped. These revered men, who were not Israelites, who were known for their decades of study and known for their cultural prominence fell down before a one-year old child and worshiped him. Is that not tremendous? I think it is in a couple of different ways. Number 1 - God used non-Israelites to acknowledge his Son, the true king. These Gentile Magi affirmed what many Jews would reject. As the Gospel of John points out, Jesus came to his own, but his own did not receive him. The worship by the Magi is a tremendous thing. It affirmed what the Scriptures in the Old Testament had been saying all along. That through the offspring of Abraham, through the seed of David, all nations would be blessed. It is truly an amazing affirmation of the Gospel call to all tribes, tongues, and nations. Number 2 – the second thing that is tremendous is that they were led by God. God had turned the hearts of these men to him and they followed him. They followed his star. Even with all the temptations for pride that comes with knowledge and wisdom, these men humbled themselves to worship the true king. Go back to verse 10, again. They rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. Again, this was before they fell down and worshiped. In other words, they gave glory to God for leading them to Jesus. And then they worshiped him. Believer in Christ, you and I were not led by a star to Jesus. But it is no less supernatural how God turned your heart and mine and led us to him. Yes, let's worship the newborn king in this advent season. Yes, let's give praise to God in Christ who is Lord and Savior. Yes, let's declare the reason that Jesus came. He was born to die in our place and then resurrected so to overcome sin and death and the devil for us. So, yes, let's worship Jesus for all these reasons. But let's also rejoice like the Magi for God bring us to him. Were it not for God leading in our lives, we would still be in darkness. But God has led us to his Son, the King. Perhaps you've come today or you've been coming, but you have yet to fall down and worship. God has been leading you. After all, you are here. He's led you to Jesus. He's led you to hear his Word. But there's something preventing you from falling down in worship. Maybe skepticism. Maybe you say that you cannot intellectually get to a place of belief. But if there was any group back then who could argue against belief, it would have been the Magi. Wouldn't it not? The Magi were the intellectuals of the time. Yet, they submitted themselves to God and they humbled themselves before him. They both praised him for leading them to Jesus and then fell down and worshiped the true king. God has led you to this point. Let him now lead you into the house before the humble king. It takes faith, doesn't it? Was it not by faith that the Magi followed the star. It was. It also requires setting aside your unbelief and forsaking your own way. It takes humility to recognize all that you don't know compared to the wisdom and glory and power of God. And it takes falling down before him and submitting your whole life to him, just as the Magi. Will you let God lead you into his house and will you fall down as the Magi did to worship Christ? He is, as 1 Corinthians says, the power of God and the wisdom and of God. He is worthy to be worshiped. What an amazing testimony in these verses… of God at work leading and affirming that he himself has come to us. May we each praise God for leading us as he did the Magi. And as they also did, may we each humbly fall down before the king of kings, for who he is… and for what he has done for us so that we may worship him. Amen

Jude tells us that he is the brother of James. In James' letter he says to us that he is the Lord Jesus Christ's brother (actually half-brother - for Mary was their mother see Mark 3verses31-35; and 6verses3). Joseph was the father of James and Jude. Mary was, contrary to orthodox teaching, not a perpetual virgin. After Jesus was born Joseph had a normal marital relationship with Mary (see Matthew 1verses23-25) and had an additional 3 sons and at least 2 unnamed daughters. Unlike his siblings Jesus was conceived by the power of God - the Holy Spirit (Luke 1verses30-35). The letter of Jude deals with the same issues as 2 Peter 2 - the problems created by the false teachers. The letter was written about 65 AD, by which time the departures in teaching from the true faith were multiplying. Jude had set out with the purpose of writing a letter to encourage his readers in their shared faith. But due to the pressing problems created by the errorists Jude was diverted to write about the need to continue in the faith and to strenuously resist the errorists. Verses 3-16 tell us that there will always be opposition from false brethren. Jude cites 5 Scriptural historical examples. These demonstrate God's dealings with the false leaders and, inferentially show the same point as 2 Peter 2 i.e. that Yahweh knows how to preserve and deliver the righteous. The first example was from the time of the wilderness wanderings, when Korah, Dathan and Abiram attempted to usurp the authority of Moses and Aaron. Numbers 16 gives details of that rebellion. The second example is the destruction of Sodom and deliverance of righteous Lot found in Genesis 19. The third example is that of the insatiable covetousness of Balaam, which not only destroyed himself but, also, many Israelites at the border of the Promised Land. These events are outlined in Numbers chapters 22-25. Example 4 related to the Samaritan opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem and is outlined in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The Samaritans falsely claimed a religious affinity with the God of Israel and they contended with chosen people. The 5th example is that of powerful and blasphemous Lamech in his attempt to eradicate Enoch. Genesis 4 shows us that only 7 generations from Adam wicked and godless men were opposing the way of God. Note in the AV that "ungodly" is used 7 times. Contrast Psalm 1, which in the Hebrew Bible is attributed to Enoch. Read aloud slowly. Pause and ponder. Verses 12-13 are a series of metaphors which expose the uselessness and dangers of all false teachers. The chapter concludes with a call to stand steadfast for the faith. The events overtaking the ecclesias had been prophesied by the Apostles. Scripture was being fulfilled before their eyes. Their part was to continue to faithfully follow their Lord Jesus Christ. So too must we. Any who become defiled by the influence of the false teachers are like a stick in the fire that needs to be swiftly plucked from the fire and extinguished. Let's pause and slowly read aloud and ponder the closing doxology of verses 24-25, "Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Saviour, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen." ESVThanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

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Read here.Balaam is considered the prototypical false teacher by the New Testament authors. This article dives into the characteristics of Balaam and how we can use this example to identify a biblical description of a false teacher. ⁠⁠sellingjesus.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thedoreanprinciple.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠copy.church

(2:38) Bible Study from Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a and the Gospel of Matthew. In addition, Fr. Simon gives some context behind Balaam of Beor who is in the first reading from Numbers. (22:52) Break 1 (23:23) Letters (23:34) Donna - A question about Sabellianism and analogies that don’t work for the Trinity. It is important to understand the differences and distinctions. (30:02) Laura – My mother has become angry and disagreeable after getting Alzheimer’s. How do I handle this? (34:48) Break 2 (35:40) Word of the Day: “tapeinos” (42:43) Phones: (42:54) Nicole - What is the best chapter of scripture in the New Testament that mentions free will? (45:38) Andrew - Could you clarify your view on how the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son?

Join biblical scholar Larry Spargimino and Clayton Van Huss on Southwest Radio Ministries' 'Watchman on the Wall' as he delves into the ancient prophecy of a star and a scepter from Numbers 24:17. This insightful audio session explores how this prophecy foretells the coming of Israel's Messiah, linking archaeological discoveries and biblical exegesis to bring a fresh understanding of this ancient text. Discover the connection between the star of prophecy and the Christmas star, and how the prophecy points to the ultimate victory of righteousness. Perfect for those interested in biblical history, theology, and prophecy.

Podcast: Light on Life Season Twelve Episode Forty-Seven. Greed has always been one of the most dangerous distortions of spiritual leadership. In Jude 10–11, false teachers are exposed as people who abandon God's way for personal gain, following the paths of Cain and Balaam. This episode of Light on Life takes a clear-eyed look at Balaam's error—how greed, divination, and profit-driven prophecy stand […] The post Why Money Hungering Greed Is Not God’s Way To Happiness appeared first on emeryhorvath.com. Related posts: Why Your Conversation About Angels Needs to be Respectful Why Contending for the Faith Is for Genuine Believers Seven Sins Of The Seriously Deceptive Soul

Father Matt reminds us that God never stops speaking — but too often, we are the ones who stop listening. Not because God is unclear, but because we already have our own plans, expectations, and conclusions. At the root of this resistance is a deeper struggle: We do not want to submit to God's authority or His will.In today's reflection, Fr. Matt discusses the prophecy of Balaam in the Book of Numbers. Balaam, a pagan soothsayer, is compelled to proclaim the truth: “A star shall advance from Jacob, and a scepter shall rise from Israel.” Though Balaam himself was far from holy, God still spoke through him, showing that divine truth is not limited by the weakness of the messenger. That prophecy finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ — the true King, whose authority extends not just over Israel, but over all nations.The same King enters Jerusalem humbly, riding on a donkey, praised by children, and rejected by leaders who refuse to listen. Their question — “By what authority are you doing these things?” — is not born of curiosity, but of hardened hearts. They hear the words, but they are willfully deaf to their meaning.Father Matt challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we listening for God's voice, or only for what confirms what we already want? Like the Blessed Virgin Mary, true blessing comes when we say, “Let it be done to me according to your word.” God speaks in Scripture, in the poor, in His Church, in prayer, and in the Eucharist — but He will not force our ears open.God speaks. The question remains: will we listen? ★ Support this podcast ★

For 15 December 2025, Monday of the 3rd week of Advent, based on Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a

What if the birth of Jesus wasn't just a miraculous moment—but the culmination of centuries of divine orchestration? In this powerful Christmas message, we trace the extraordinary journey God set in motion long before Joseph and Mary ever traveled to Bethlehem, revealing how prophecy, politics, and the very stars aligned to bring the Messiah into the world. Discover the fascinating connection between Daniel's role as chief of the Magi in ancient Persia and the wise men who followed the Star of Bethlehem to find the newborn King. Learn how Balaam's prophecy about a star rising from Jacob, spoken over a thousand years earlier, pointed directly to Jesus' birth. We'll explore why King Herod and all of Jerusalem were deeply disturbed when the Magi arrived—and it wasn't just about a baby. This message unpacks the prophetic timeline from Micah's prophecy about Bethlehem, through Jacob's blessing over Judah, to the Roman census that moved Joseph and Mary exactly where they needed to be. You'll see how God used empires, rivalries, and even a government tax registration to fulfill His perfect plan. The birth of Jesus was no accident—it was the most carefully orchestrated event in human history. Whether you're seeking a deeper understanding of the Christmas story or wondering how God might be setting up circumstances in your own life, this message will encourage your faith and reveal the incredible sovereignty of God across time. He declares the end from the beginning—and He's not done working in your story yet either!

In a blessing that is also a prophecy, Balaam sees, in the latter days, "a Star coming out of Jacob" who will "crush the foreheads" of Moab. It is clear that this Star is a majestic ruler, but not an ordinary majestic ruler.Balaam sees the One who presently exists (because He has always existed) but is not presently present.

In this eye-opening message, special guest Dr. Robi Sonderegger unpacks the biblical warning against “the way of Balaam,” revealing how resisting God's instruction can impact our purpose, relationships, and spiritual maturity. Drawing from Revelation 2, Numbers 22, and attachment theory, Dr. Robi shows how our emotional patterns, spiritual disobedience, and relational habits can either align us with blessing — or lead us down a destructive path.

In football, the preseason comes before the regular season; to get ready for when the games count. In this episode of Bible Backdrop, we see Israel going through a similar experience. They go through a number of challenges and battles to get ready for their conquering of the Promised Land. There are, of course, a number of rebellious moments and fiery serpents, but they make it through and sit on the edge of the Jordan ready to move ahead. If you are enjoying Bible Backdrop, please leave a 5 star rating and review. You can also get in touch with the show at the e-mail address mentioned in the episode. You can find Bible Backdrop on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you find podcasts.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comJude Jude writes to believers with the original intent of encouraging them in their shared salvation, but he shifts his focus to urge them to contend for the faith. He warns that ungodly people have secretly slipped in among them, twisting God's grace into a license for immorality and denying Jesus Christ. Jude reminds readers of past judgments on those who rejected God, including the Israelites in the wilderness, rebellious angels, and the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. These false teachers are dangerous influences, driven by pride, greed, and rebellion. Believers must remain strong by building themselves up in faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, and staying in God's love. Jude closes with praise to God, who is able to keep them from falling and bring them into His glorious presence.  God calls us to hold tightly to the faith He has given us, even as the world around us becomes increasingly confused and careless with truth. We must be careful not to follow those who twist grace or reject Jesus; they are known by their attitude and the fruit they produce. Instead, we should build our lives on His Word, maintain a close connection with Him through prayer, and rely on His love to guide us. We live in God's love and wait for Christ's return. When others struggle, we respond with mercy, helping them return to the truth. Our hope is not in ourselves but in the God who keeps us secure and saves us through our Lord Jesus.     Majestic Lord, we praise You for our shared salvation and the hope of eternal life that guides our hearts and lives. Strengthen us to defend the gospel message wherever You lead us. So many have denied Your worthy authority in their lives. Help us recognize the foolishness of Cain, Balaam, and Korah, and instead choose to humbly follow the Lord Jesus Christ. Please block the false teachers and deceitful workers who hinder the good work You have for us to accomplish. Guide us in teaching the lost, assisting those who struggle, and empowering us with Your strength and protection.  Thought Questions: What does it mean to “contend earnestly for the faith”? Why should that primarily involve defending Jesus as Master and Lord? What will God do to all who do not believe? What are the errors of Cain, Balaam, and Korah that often lead to rampant disobedience? When was the last time you snatched someone from the fire? How vital is mercy towards others and efforts made to restore and help them?

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-20986de6a07c35b72f609c44413038b9{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-20986de6a07c35b72f609c44413038b9 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-20986de6a07c35b72f609c44413038b9 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 02 – December 03Jude 1:1-16 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – December 03 Jude 1:1-16 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/02-1203db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Jude 1 Greeting Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James, To those who are called, who are loved [1] in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ: 2 Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you. Ungodly Teachers Who Slipped In Secretly 3 Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you concerning the salvation we share, I felt it was necessary for me to write, to urge you to continue to contend for the faith that was delivered to the saints once and for all. 4 For certain individuals slipped in secretly, about whom it was written some time ago that they are condemned. They are ungodly people who turn the grace of our God into a license for sin and deny our only Master [2] and Lord, Jesus Christ. 5 I want to remind you, though you already know all these things, that after the Lord [3] rescued his people out of the land of Egypt, he later destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not keep their position of authority but left their own dwelling place behind—God has kept them in everlasting chains under darkness for the judgment of the great day. 7 Like Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them, who in a similar way indulged in extreme sexual immorality and pursued homosexual perversion, [4] they serve as an example of those who are going to suffer the punishment of eternal fire. 8 Yet, in the very same way, these dreamers are defiling the flesh, despising authority, and blaspheming glorious ones. 9 But when the archangel Michael was disputing with the Devil and arguing about the body of Moses, he did not dare to bring a blasphemous condemnation against him. Instead he said, “The Lord rebuke you!” 10 But these people do not understand what they are blaspheming. They are being destroyed by the very things that they know by instinct (like unreasoning animals). 11 Woe to them! They have gone the way of Cain. They have abandoned themselves for hire to the error of Balaam. They perished in Korah's rebellion. 12 These people are filthy stains on [5] your love feasts when they eat with you without fear, shepherding themselves. They are clouds without rain, being driven along by the winds. They are autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, pulled up by the roots. 13 They are wild waves of the sea piling up the foam of their own shame. They are wandering stars for whom the gloom of darkness has been reserved for eternity. 14 Enoch, the seventh from Adam, also prophesied about these people, saying, “Look, the Lord is going to come with tens of thousands of his holy ones, 15 to execute judgment against all of them and to convict every soul concerning all their ungodly deeds, which they did in an ungodly way, and concerning all the harsh words that ungodly sinners spoke against him.” 16 These are discontented grumblers, who walk according to their lusts, and their mouths speak boastful things as they flatter others to take advantage of them. Footnotes Jude 1:1 A few witnesses to the text read sanctified. (“Witnesses to the text” mentioned in footnotes may include Greek manuscripts, lectionaries, translations, and quotations in the church fathers.) Jude 1:4 A few witnesses to the text add God. Jude 1:5 A few witnesses to the text read Jesus. Jude 1:7 Or went after unnatural flesh. See Genesis 19:4-9. Jude 1:12 Or hidden hazards at #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

We're popping a Curiously Kaitlyn episode into your feed this week because we're starting a brand-new Advent series, and—let's be honest—the nativity story gets weird. Kids notice all the odd details we learned to ignore, and suddenly you're fielding questions you did not prepare for in Sunday School.So instead of scrambling for answers all by yourself, you can join us all month as we explore the questions your kids (and most adults!) are genuinely curious about. First up: Who exactly are the wise men, and why do they show up in the nativity scene at all? If you enjoy the conversation, make sure you're subscribed to Curiously Kaitlyn wherever you get your podcasts. We've got a whole month of Christmas episodes coming your way. 0:00 - Theme Song   2:05 - What's Up With the Star?   9:00 - How Many Wise Men?   12:50 - Sponsor - Blueland - For 15% off first order of Blueland cleaning products, go to this link: https://www.blueland.com/CURIOUSLY   14:03 - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a holiday gift to share memories? Get 35% off the Aura Carver Mat Frame with promo code KAITLYN at https://www.auraframes.com   15:04 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/CURIOUSLY to receive 50% off your first order   17:00 - Why's this in the Bible?   27:00 - Balaam and the Magi   37:37 - End Credits

We all know the wise men from our nativity sets, but what's actually going on in this story? Who were the wise men, and why did Matthew include them in his accounting of the birth of Christ? This well-known but undeniably odd part of the nativity story is loaded with meaning that can reorient how we enter Advent. Kaitlyn and Producer Mike follow kids' simple questions about stars, gifts, and travel timelines into the deeper layers of Matthew's Gospel, where foreign astrologers, of all people, become some of the first to recognize Jesus as king. 0:00 - Theme Song   2:05 - What's Up With the Star?   9:00 - How Many Wise Men?   12:50 - Sponsor - Blueland - For 15% off first order of Blueland cleaning products, go to this link: https://www.blueland.com/CURIOUSLY   14:03 - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a holiday gift to share memories? Get 35% off the Aura Carver Mat Frame with promo code KAITLYN at https://www.auraframes.com   15:04 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/CURIOUSLY to receive 50% off your first order   17:00 - Why's this in the Bible?   27:00 - Balaam and the Magi   37:37 - End Credits

Even the Christmas story, sung and recited at this time of year, becomes the victim of the increasingly popular kingdom/dominion/reconstruction teachings we have discussed in recent months. Take, for example, the story of the wise men (the Bible doesn't say there were “three”). Having seen a new star, which they understood signaled the birth of a promised king of Israel, they journeyed to Jerusalem—not because the star led them there (as Christmas songs and stories erroneously say), but because that was where they logically expected a Jewish king to be born. We don't know how they were alerted to watch for the star, but it could have been because of an oral account of Balaam's prophecy (Numbers 24:17) handed down among Eastern magi.

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-91eda73308b3eb54d57c6f3260508376{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-91eda73308b3eb54d57c6f3260508376 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-91eda73308b3eb54d57c6f3260508376 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 02 – November 302 Peter 2 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – November 30 2 Peter 2 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/02-1130db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible A Warning About False Teachers 1 There were false prophets also among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow their depraved ways, and because of them the way of the truth will be blasphemed. 3 In their greed they will exploit you with fabricated messages. Their condemnation announced long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. God Will Punish These False Teachers 4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned but handed them over to chains [1] of darkness by casting them into hell, to be kept under guard for judgment; 5 and if God did not spare the ancient world but preserved Noah, a preacher of righteousness, along with seven others when he brought a flood on the world of ungodly people; 6 and if God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction, [2] by turning them into ashes when he made them an example of things to come for the ungodly; [3] 7 and if he rescued righteous Lot, who was very distressed by the unrestrained immorality of the wicked people 8 (while that righteous man was living among them, he was tormented in his righteous soul day after day by the lawless deeds he saw and heard); 9 then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptation and to keep the unrighteous under guard until the day of judgment, in order to punish them. 10 This is especially true of those who follow the defiling lust of the flesh and who despise authority. Daring and arrogant, they do not tremble when they blaspheme glorious beings, 11 whereas angels, even though they are greater in strength and power, do not bring a slanderous judgment against them before the Lord. 12 But these people blaspheme in matters about which they are ignorant, just like unreasoning creatures that live by instinct and are born to be captured and destroyed. So they too will be destroyed as a consequence of their destructive activity. 13 They will be paid back [4] for the harm they cause. They consider it a pleasure to carouse in the daytime. They are spots and blemishes, who take delight in their deceitful pleasures [5] while they feast with you. 14 They have eyes full of longing for adulterous women and sins that never stop. They seduce unstable souls. They have trained their hearts for greed. They are children who are cursed. 15 They left the right way and went astray, following the path of Balaam, son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness. 16 (He was rebuked for his disobedience. A donkey, which does not talk, spoke with a human voice and restrained the prophet's madness.) 17 These men are wells without water, clouds driven away by a windstorm, for whom the gloom of darkness has been reserved. [6] 18 For by uttering arrogant, empty words, they use the depraved lusts of the flesh to seduce those who are barely [7] escaping from those who live in error. 19 While they promise these people freedom, they themselves are slaves to corruption, for a person is a slave to what has control of him. The Tragedy of Being Led Back Into a Sinful Life 20 Indeed, if, after escaping the defiling things of the world through the knowledge of our [8] Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and controlled by them again, they are worse off than they were at first. 21 In fact, it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness than, after knowing it, to turn back from the holy command passed on to them. 22 They demonstrate the truth of the proverb: “A dog returns to its own vomit,” [9] and a washed sow returns to wallowing in the mud. Footnotes 2 Peter 2:4 Some witnesses to the text read dungeons. 2 Peter 2:6 A few witnesses omit to destruction. 2 Peter 2:6 Some witnesses to the text read an example of the people who are going to be ungodly. 2 Peter 2:13 A few witnesses to the text read They will suffer harm as the wages. 2 Peter 2:13 A few witnesses to the text read their love feasts. 2 Peter 2:17 Some witnesses to the text add forever. 2 Peter 2:18 Some witnesses to the text read actually. 2 Peter 2:20 Some witnesses to the text omit our. It would be replaced by the. 2 Peter 2:22 Proverbs 26:11 #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

Today, Balaam blesses Israel, but gives the Moabites sinful advice. Sexual immorality and idolatry bring a plague on the Israelites. Phinehas saves the day. Israel has to wipe out the Midianites.  Numbers 23:27-30; 24:1-9, 10-25; Revelation 2:13-14; Numbers 25:1-17; 21:1-24. #everydaychristians

What do we learn about the people of Israel and God's promises to them in the last chapters of Numbers? The Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing (Professor of Theology & Ministry, Paul Edwin F. and Esther L. Laatsch Chair of Old Testament Studies, Director of the Pre-Seminary Program, and Director of The Center for Biblical Studies at Concordia University, St. Paul) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 4 of our series on his book Hope in the Wilderness: Practical Insights from the Book of Numbers to talk about Israel's track record of idolatry, the account of Balaam and Balak and how it points us to Christ, why the account of Zelophehad's daughters is unique, the last Promised Land update in Numbers, and how Numbers point us to Christ, our Conqueror and Redeemer. Find Hope in the Wilderness: Practical Insights from the Book of Numbers from Concordia Publishing House at cph.org/hope-in-the-wilderness-practical-insights-from-the-book-of-numbers. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

God gives victory to the Israelites, but they still complain. Snakebites! Defeating Sihon and Giant King Og. The Moabites' scheme: defeat the Israelites with Balaam. The Exodus Route: Wilderness of Sinai by Steve Rudd; YouTube video: The Real Mt Sinai found in Saudi Arabia, The King's Highway at Wikipedia.com. Numbers 21:1-9, 10-20; 21:21-35; 33:1-56. #everydaychristians

Balaak, a Moabite king, pays a local prophet Balaam to curse Israel. God has other plans. Numbers 22:1-20, 21-41; 23:1-12, 13-26. #everydaychristians

Nehemiah had initially been given leave in approximatelyBC 470 by the Persian king Darius for a period of time after which he returned to Ecbatana (the king's palace in Shushan). Then a further thirteen years elapse (BC 457) he is again granted leave to return. Sadly, in his absence, there had been a decline described by the prophet Malachi. Nehemiah 13 would have been the last section of the Old Testament to have been written shortly after Malachi's prophecy. When we compare Malachi and Nehemiah 13 we see the same problems being addressed. The first few verses of Nehemiah 13 tell us that Nehemiah reads to his people from the Book of Moses that Balaam was able to bring a curse on Israel only when they mingle themselves among the profane, immoral and uncovenanted Moabites. So, Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem and this is what he found - the high priest's daughter was married to Tobiah (one of the great enemies of Israel) and the high priest had set up for Tobiah a room in the temple and had stopped the collecting of the tithes for the priests and Levites which had previously been stored in Tobiah's room. Nehemiah casts Tobiah and his furniture out of the temple. Then Nehemiah cleanses the house of God. Because the tithes had not been paid the Levites had been forced to abandon the teaching of the Law to the people and work as day labourers in the fields.Nehemiah quickly rectifies this problem. The sanctity of the Sabbath had again been lost and the foreign merchants had resumed their trade. Nehemiah asks for the LORD to remember him for good.Nehemiah's heart was always directed to Yahweh's and His people's service. The next problem described is the intermarriage between Jews and godless and uncovenanted foreigners. The result is total confusion and children who knew not their God (compare Malachi 2verses11-16 read aloud, pause and ponder). Nehemiah forcefully remonstrates with those who had committed this breach of faith with their God and reminds them that the marrying of uncovenanted wives was one of the greatest factors in the turning of Israel to idolatry at the time of Solomon - despite Solomon's great wisdom. The offerings are restored and Nehemiah in his final prayer says, "Remember me, O my God, for good".

Series: N/AService: Sun AM WorshipType: SermonSpeaker: Andy Cantrell

How does Numbers point us to Christ, our conqueror and redeemer? The Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing (Professor of Theology & Ministry, Paul Edwin F. and Esther L. Laatsch Chair of Old Testament Studies, Director of the Pre-Seminary Program, and Director of The Center for Biblical Studies at Concordia University, St. Paul) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 3 of our series on his book Hope in the Wilderness: Practical Insights from the Book of Numbers to talk about the account of Moses striking the rock to receive water, why God barred Moses from the Promised Land, the account of the bronze serpent and how this points to Christ, what we learn about Israel's relationship with other nations, and an introduction to Balaam and Balak. Find Hope in the Wilderness: Practical Insights from the Book of Numbers from Concordia Publishing House at cph.org/hope-in-the-wilderness-practical-insights-from-the-book-of-numbers. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Jude's letter, while brief, is both pointed and to the point. While he had hoped to write a letter of encouragement and celebration in the gospel, he realized it was more prudent to encourage them to contend for the faith against those false teachings which had infiltrated the church. Pointing back to Sodom and Gomorrah, the rebellion in the wilderness after the exodus, to Balaam, to Cain, and to those who rebelled with Korah, he asserts that these people who deny Jesus and who rely on dreams will be doomed to hell. In these end times there are certain to be scoffers who live according to their ungodly desires, who create division, and who are worldly. Even so, he encourages the church to have mercy on those who waver. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

What do you do when God has already declared a blessing over your life, but everything around you tries to convince you otherwise? In this sermon, Pastor Chauncey Brown reminds us that when God speaks a blessing, no enemy, circumstance, or voice of opposition can overturn it. Drawing from the story of Balaam in Numbers 22 through 24, Pastor Brown teaches that the Israelites could not be cursed because God had already called them blessed. This sermon assures every believer that the blessings of God are permanent, protected, and backed by His faithfulness. Pastor Brown encourages you to stand confidently in what God has spoken, regardless of your past or your current season. What God blesses remains blessed, and no force in the earth or in the spirit can reverse what He has declared over your life. Sermon Scriptures: Numbers 23:20; Numbers 22-24   We stream live every Sunday at 11 am and every Wednesday at 8 pm. Visit our website: https://perfectingfaithchurch.com  Connect with us on social media!  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PerfectingFaithChurch/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfectingfaithchurch/  X: https://x.com/PFCNY   Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@perfectingfaithchurch  

Jude warns that it is possible to sit among God's people while carrying a distorted gospel that leads to destruction. The examples of Israel in the wilderness, Sodom and Gomorrah, and Balaam show how easily people can convince themselves that they are safe while moving in a direction that opposes God. Jude highlights this danger using aorist verbs, describing the fate of false teachers as though the judgment has already occurred. The warning is clear: “These people…turn the grace of […] The post The Way of Balaam appeared first on Revival Life Church Boca Raton, FL.