Podcasts about CG

Hwæt a Movie is back! This time we dive deep into the uncanny valley epic Beowulf from 2007. Released at the height of Robert Zemeckis's motion-capture mania, this version of our favorite Old English classic promised to bring the poem to life like never before. It was slated to be an event like no other, at least for John and Andy. In this star-studded and CG-saturated film, Ray Winstone voices a Beowulf who looks suspiciously like an action figure and swaggers like he just killed nine nicors. He's accompanied by the ageless Wiglaf, played by Brendan Gleeson. The great Anthony Hopkins plays a jovial but somewhat mad King Hrothgar, Robin Wright plays the deeply troubled Queen Wealhtheow, and John Malkovich does his best John Malkovich as Unferth. But if we're honest, this is the Grendel family's movie from start to finish. Crispin Glover turns in a unforgettable performance as a Grendel who swells with anger and shrinks with vulnerability. Grendel's mother is a gold-dipped, shape-shifting femme fatale with stiletto feet. She's also very much Angelina Jolie. And then there's Grendel's little half-brother dragon. That's right, the dragon is part of the family! Is this adaptation a clever deconstruction of heroism and myth-making? Or just an excuse to get Beowulf naked on an animated dragon? Zemeckis, Gaiman, and Avary take some bold liberties with the source material in this one, and we're here to guide you through it all from the perspective of two curmudgeonly middle-aged medievalists. As always, this episode of Hwæt a Movie includes a thorough summary and discussion of the film, a brief Q&A, and our final ratings: how well the film handles Beowulf, Grendel, and Grendel's mother, plus our ever-important scores for faithfulness to the source and overall entertainment value. Beowulf (2007) was a wild ride to discuss, and we hope you enjoy it half as much as Beowulf enjoys shouting his own name. Or at least as much as Zemeckis likes cleverly blocking Beowulf's bare bits from view with conveniently placed objects. Once you've listened, let us know your thoughts. Is this the definitive Beowulf for the 21st century? Or just a fever dream in a damp cave? And do you forgive us for being grumpy when it comes to Beowulf movies? Reach out on social media and join the discussion: Sagathingpodcast on Facebook Sagathingpodcast on Instagram Sagathingpodcast on Bluesky Or join others like you on Saga Thing's unofficial official Discord All music taken from the film for this episode is written and produced by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri.

WARNING, this episode contains adult content. Few men realize how deeply silence about sex can wound intimacy. It's not usually selfishness that causes distance, but fear of saying the wrong thing, being rejected, or exposing the ache for connection that runs deeper than words. Over time, unspoken needs harden into resentment, and what was meant to unite begins to divide. In this episode released from 9 months ago, John Heinen and Devin Schadt open a brutally honest conversation about how to talk with your wife about sex. Not as a demand, but as a path toward healing, holiness, and true partnership. Drawing from Scripture, Catholic wisdom, and personal experience, they reveal how mercy, patience, and honest communication can restore trust and rekindle desire. If you've ever wanted deeper unity in your marriage, this is where it begins. FREE Handmade Wooden Rosary with Pardon Crucifix This Month for those joining CG+.

Thursday, 16 October 2025   Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. Matthew 13:40   “Therefore, just as it is gathered, the darnel, and fire – it consumed, thus it will be in the age's consummation” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus explained who the enemy is, what the harvest signifies, and who the reapers are from His parable of the darnel. He next says, “Therefore, just as it is gathered, the darnel.”   In the parable, the darnel was gathered first. As noted previously, this cannot be speaking of the end of the church age without severe modification of the typology, something that would make no sense. This is not only true from the idea of keeping the parable comparable to actual events, but also because of who Jesus is speaking to.   Speaking about the church, something not yet understood by the disciples, would be comparable to someone today speaking about the terrible job the next administration is doing in handling the economy. The next administration is years away, and the candidates haven't even been selected.   Therefore, at the end of the age of Israel's interaction with the law, meaning the end of the tribulation, the darnel, the sons of the wicked one, will be gathered up first. From there, Jesus says, “and fire – it consumed.”   Before the wonderful millennial reign, the agents of Satan will be identified and eliminated. Like darnel, fire will consume them. Only then will the world be ready to enter into the final dispensation. To sum up this thought, Jesus says, “thus it will be in the age's consummation.”   The word aión, age, is used. This is not its first instance, but as a reminder, it speaks of various things based on the context. It signifies an era or time span. HELPS Word Studies says it is “characterized by a specific quality (type of existence)”.   In this case, it does not have to mean the end of the church age, even if that is what comes next. The type of existence that Jesus is currently speaking to (and about) is Israel under the law, not yet having received Him. It is the consummation of this age, this type of existence, that is being referred to. Keeping the boxes straight will keep students of the Bible from having actual contradictions in their biblical understanding.   Life application: In this parable, Jesus speaks of fire as the disposition of the darnel. It is rather popular for people to overlook or diminish Jesus' judgment and the resulting effects of it. Some say, contrary to several passages, that condemnation is not eternal. Rather, people are just snuffed out and done.   Others say that nobody will go to hell. Such notions would mean that the Bible is actually untrue in its statements and depictions. Rather, judgment lies ahead for all humanity. For believers, their judgment for salvation or condemnation was realized in their receiving Jesus' punishment, meted out to Him vicariously, at the cross of Calvary.   However, even believers have a judgment of fire coming. To understand that, or to refresh yourself, Paul says –   “Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is. 14 If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.” 1 Corinthians 3:12-15   “Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. 11 Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.” 2 Corinthians 5:9-11   Real judgment lies ahead for each of us. In Christ, it will be a judgment for receiving rewards or for the loss of what we could have received. How will we live our lives in Christ? The choice is up to each of us.   When we fail to live appropriately, we will suffer loss, but praise God! We will be saved. Jesus has paid the full price for our sins. Condemnation no longer hangs over us. This is one of a long list of verses that assure us of eternal salvation. Thank God for His grace. Hallelujah and amen.   Lord God, may we be faithful in our walk with You. We received Jesus' work, were saved, and at that time we were sealed with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee. May we now reflect that in our daily walk, pressing forward with Jesus as the fixation of our eyes. Amen.

Three-time Emmy-winner Margo Martindale ("Justified", "The Americans") and Independent Spirit Awards nominee Maitreyi Ramakrishnan ("Never Have I Ever", "Freakier Friday") discuss their voice roles in "The Twits". The new CG animated feature adaptation of Roald Dahl's iconic book debuts this Friday Oct. 17 on Netflix.

Murph & Markus - hour 1: Yoshinobu Yamamoto throws CG against Brewers in game 2 of the NLCS, Deommodore Lenoir interview replay, & Bruce Arena joins the showSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Murph & Markus - hour 1: Yoshinobu Yamamoto throws CG against Brewers in game 2 of the NLCS, Deommodore Lenoir interview replay, & Bruce Arena joins the showSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday, 15 October 2025   The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels. Matthew 13:39   “And the enemy, the ‘having sown them,' he is the Traducer. And harvest – it is the age's consummation. And harvesters – they are messengers” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus continued the explanation of the parable of the darnel. His continued words of explanation are, “And the enemy, the ‘having sown them,' he is the traducer.” This is the first time the devil, or traducer, has been mentioned since Chapter 4. Jesus is the Sower. He sows good seed, but along with His efforts, the traducer sows his bad seed.   As the seed grows and matures, there has to be a separation between them. But Jesus, not wanting to harm the progress of His efforts, leaves them until the end. That is seen in His next words, “And harvest – it is the age's consummation.”   A new word, sunteleia, is seen here. It is derived from suntelo, to complete entirely. Thus, it is an entire completion. Strong's adds to the meaning, saying, “of a dispensation.” As this is so, something that can be understood from the context, the logical question to ask is, “What dispensation?”   The most common answer by scholars throughout the centuries is, “The church age, of course.” Two points immediately dismiss that. First, Jesus was speaking to His disciples about Israel under the law. Regardless of what their ministry will later be, that is the context. Second, the church age had not yet been introduced. So poignant is this the case that as Jesus was departing to heaven, this exchange is seen –   “And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, ‘which,' He said, ‘you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.' 6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, ‘Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?' 7 And He said to them, ‘It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.'” Acts 1:4-8   The disciples were wondering when the kingdom would be ushered in, as if it would be soon. Jesus didn't tell them there would be no kingdom for Israel. Rather, His plan for them is one that encompasses the duration of the church age. The period of law, for Israel, never ended. They have been under the curses of the law for having rejected Him.   The church age is given to bring salvation to the world through the gospel, but that is not its only intent –   “But I say, did Israel not know? First Moses says: ‘I will provoke you to jealousy by those who are not a nation, I will move you to anger by a foolish nation.'” Romans 10:19   “For I speak to you Gentiles; inasmuch as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry, 14 if by any means I may provoke to jealousy those who are my flesh and save some of them.” Romans 11:13, 14   Properly understanding the dispensational model addresses the issue that cannot be rightly understood otherwise. So profound is this truth that even those who hold to dispensationalism still mix their theology and take the words of Jesus as referring to the church age. This is incorrect. Understanding this, He next says, “And harvesters – they are messengers.”   There is no article before messengers. What type of messengers is not stated. The vast majority of translations and commentaries say they are angels. Though this is possible, it is not a necessary deduction. For all we know, it is earthly people appointed to decide the matter of who is who at the end of the tribulation.   Either way, this is referring to Jesus' words found in Matthew 24. In 24:3, the disciples ask about the sunteleia, the end of the age or consummation. Jesus then explains what will take place in verse 24:31. He notes that He will send His messenger to gather the elect. He then gives the details of that through the end of the chapter.   None of what He says refers to the church or the rapture. They are words of the elect being gathered and the others having judgment brought upon them. Only then will the earthly millennial kingdom be ushered in.   Life application: Though not yet complete, there is unexplained wording in Jesus' parable. There are also unexplained concepts not specifically stated. In other words, and for example, after Jesus' explanation is complete, nothing will have been said about why He allowed the traducer to sow bad seed.   Jesus died on the cross and defeated sin. Why didn't He just take care of him and all of the world's mess at that time? The answer is not so that the church could usher in a state of perfect harmony before Jesus returns.   The answer is found in His covenant promises to Israel. Israel rejected Him. But their rejection does not negate His faithfulness to His words of promise to them. In order for these things to be realized, He began the new dispensation, that of grace.   During this age, the whole world is evangelized, and the eternal kingdom is being added to daily throughout the world. Eventually, His plan will lead back to Israel being the focus of attention. That is beginning now. Though they are not His people (ammi: My people) at this time, according to both the prophets and Paul, they will be at some point.   The world, including Israel, is being prepared for that day. At some point, the rapture will take place. When that occurs, the events of the end time will start to unfold, leading to the fulfillment of His parables and explanations of those times. Get ready! Israel is back in the land. The end of all these things is being prepared.   Lord God, thank You for Your faithfulness to Israel. In seeing how You deal with them, we can know that You will deal the same with us. We are so unfaithful, but You are faithful and true. Help us to realize this and to honor You all the more for Your kind grace directed toward us. Amen.  

Tuesday, 14 October 2025   The field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one. Matthew 13:38   “And the field, it is the world. And the good seed, these, they are the sons of the kingdom. And the weeds, they are the sons of the evil” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus began His explanation of the parable of the darnel, explaining that the One sowing good seed is the Son of Man. He continues with, “And the field, it is the world.”   The word kosmos is used. It signifies an orderly arrangement. By implication, it thus speaks of the world. However, that can be the world as the globe, the inhabitants of the world, the state of the world (as in “they are not of the world”), etc.   Jesus' parable goes far beyond a single field or the several fields of a landowner. As such, it would explain why the parable would not be understood without really thinking things through, and maybe not at all.   When evaluating such things, the human mind will make images of what is happening, such as in the sowing of a field. To expand out to the entire world takes a real leap in thought. Jesus continues, saying, “And the good seed, these, they are the sons of the kingdom.”   Having already heard the explanation of the parable of the sower, the imagery here is understandable. The seed reflects people. Obviously, if the sower wants a good harvest, he will sow good seed. The same would be true with Jesus. He will only bring forth that which is good. However, “And the weeds, they are the sons of the evil.”   Pretty much every translation adds in the word “one,” saying, “sons of the evil one,” “wicked one,” etc. This is a correct thought, but it is not a true rendering. It only uses the adjective as a descriptor. Hence, italicizing it is appropriate. Jesus will continue the explanation in the next verse.   Life application: There is a standard method of interpreting Scripture that has been set forth for eons: “Let Scripture interpret Scripture.” In other words, when something is recorded in the Bible, the way to interpret it, first and foremost, is to let the explanation of it be what the Bible says about it.   For example, the story of Sarah and Hagar is recorded in Genesis. For almost 1500 years, it was “just a story” with a meaning that was not understood. Scholars would give their ideas about why it was included in Scripture, normally ensuring that it was understood that the line leading to the Jewish people was highlighted as the true line, chosen of God.   This is not incorrect, but it is incomplete. There are exacting details in the narrative that could have just been left out, and that premise would still be understood. But every word of Scripture has a particular reason for being there.   Only in the coming of Christ and the introduction of the New Covenant is the reason for the story understood. Paul gives a brief explanation of it in Galatians 4, stating “which things are symbolic” in verse 4:24. As Paul has given the explanation under the inspiration of God, we do not need to look for any other explanation for the story. We are thus letting Scripture interpret Scripture.   This is true with incense. In both testaments, incense is explicitly stated as being a metaphor for prayer (see Psalm 141:2 and Revelation 5:8). Therefore, we don't need to speculate about its set typology when looking at the times when incense is mentioned in the Bible.   In Exodus, great detail is given concerning incense. Understanding that it signifies prayer, the meaning of all of those details becomes evident and can be properly analyzed. This is true with something found in the parable of the darnel. In this verse, Jesus said, “And the field, it is the world.”   Therefore, because Jesus has explained what the field signifies (in Hebrew, sadeh means field), we don't need to go anywhere else to understand what is being seen in the typology of a given passage. All we need to do is consistently stick to what Jesus has said.   Unfortunately, translations may fail to translate sadeh as field at times, or they will translate something else as field from another word that actually has a different meaning. Therefore, we can make errors in our figuring out typology by trusting in a given translation that has failed to be consistent. An example would be Genesis 32:3 –   “And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother unto the land of Seir, the country of Edom” (KJV).   The KJV failed to translate sadeh as field, instead rendering it “country.” The NKJV followed that translation, but they thankfully footnoted it as “field.” If one were to read only the KJV, he would never know that it was a faulty rendering of the word. If he were attempting to typologically explain the passage, his explanation would be faulty because of the already faulty translation.   Therefore, when doing an analysis of a passage, attempting to understand what it means, 1) first and foremost, let Scripture interpret Scripture, 2) be consistent in your typological meanings, (if you are to divert from a particular typology, you must have a valid reason for doing so), 3) don't trust a single, faulty translation (like the KJV), and expect proper results. Check with the original. It is not difficult to do, and it will keep you on a sounder, surer path of properly explaining the passage.   Lord God, may we be careful with Your word, never making stuff up in order to provide an explanation that we want. Rather, may we go where You are leading as we carefully evaluate the set purpose and intent that You have for each passage. Amen.

Monday, 13 October 2025   He answered and said to them: “He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. Matthew 13:37   “And answering, He said, ‘He, the ‘sowing the good seed,' he is the Son of Man'” (CG).   In the previous verse, the disciples came to Jesus and asked Him to explain the parable of the darnel. Therefore, Matthew records, “And answering, He said, ‘He, the ‘sowing the good seed,' he is the Son of Man.'”   His words reveal that this is not just a parable without an exact meaning, like a fable or a general metaphor that can be equated to various things. Rather, it is a specific parable that provides specific information.   Because this is so, even though truths from it may bleed between dispensations, the most likely explanation is that it is an overall truth applying to only one. This was discussed in the comments provided when the parable was given to the crowds by Jesus.   Jesus is the Sower. Therefore, the parable is referring to Him and cannot be transferred to anyone else as an example of their life or ministry.   Life application: As noted in an earlier commentary (Matthew 13:30), if the words of this parable are referring to the church age, there needs to be a specific spiritualization of some of what is being said.    This is generally what people do, attempting to fit themselves and their situation into parts of the Bible. Passages, for example, that provide hope to Israel in exile to Babylon, such as are found in Jeremiah, are transferred to our lives. Although they are words of hope, they are intended for a particular audience.   We can learn about God's mercy and compassion from those passages, but we should not endeavor to place ourselves into what is being stated. The words of this parable are specific and have an intended audience.   We can learn truths from it, and we can also see parallels in our dispensation to some of the things that happen, but the best course of action when reading it is to understand that it is dealing with Jesus and Israel.   Lord God, help us to understand Your word as You intend for us to understand it. Keep us from making faulty or illogical connections that are not intended by You. Rather, may our time in Your word be for understanding Your nature and Your care for humanity as You interact with us at any given time. Amen.

Sunday, 12 October 2025   Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.” Matthew 13:36   “Then Jesus, having dismissed the crowds, He went into the house. And His disciples, they came to Him, saying, ‘Expound to us the parable of the fields' darnel'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Matthew quoted the words of the prophet Asaph Isaiah to explain why Jesus spoke in parables. Next, he returns to the ongoing narrative with the words, “Then Jesus, having dismissed the crowds.”   After speaking out His parables, a dismissal of the crowds took place, once that was attended to, “He went into the house.”   The article before house means it is a particular house. Going back to Matthew 1, it says, “And in that day, Jesus, having departed from the house, He sat by the sea.” It is this house, explained during that verse, that is being referred to. Once in the house, it says, “And His disciples, they came to Him.”   Houses at the time were not big McMansions that many live in today. There would be no need to go looking for Him in the house. Therefore, it is probable that as soon as Jesus went into the house, those following asked this as they were coming in, highlighting their desire to hear an explanation of His words. In their words to Him, they were “saying, ‘Expound to us the parable of the fields' darnel.'”   The word phrazó is introduced here. It is only found in some texts here. Most use the word diasapheó, a word also first found here. This word, phrazó, is found only elsewhere in Matthew 15:15. It means to indicate by word or act or to interpret. Thus, it signifies to expound. They are looking for an indication of what He was talking about in the parable, meaning its underlying meaning.   The other word used in other texts, diasapheó, comes from two words signifying “through” and “clear.” Thus, it is a thorough clearing of something. Thus, it figuratively means to declare.   The parable of the darnel in the field was recorded in verses 24-30. The parable was deeper than the subsequent two, those of the mustard seed and the leaven in the bread. As such, the disciples wanted a clear understanding of what Jesus was conveying in it.   Life application: As seen in the parable of the leaven, which Jesus did not explain, there is disagreement in its meaning. The majority of commentators state that the leaven was used as a good thing, it being the one exception to the normal use of leaven in Scripture, which is in a negative sense.   However, that seems inappropriate, and a suitable explanation that follows the normal Scriptural meaning of leaven was provided. If there is disagreement on such a short parable, being only one sentence long, it is good that the disciples asked for an explanation of this longer and more complicated parable.   Not everything Jesus said during His ministry is carefully explained. This lack has led to innumerable interpretations of various things He set before the disciples. The majority of these divisions in interpretation could be resolved by remembering the main rule of biblical interpretation: What is the context?   Jesus' ministry was to Israel under the law. His words deal with that context. Jesus never spoke of things like the rapture. The reason He didn't do this was because that event belongs to the church age. The doctrine of the rapture is only explained by Paul because Paul is the apostle to the Gentile led church.   Remembering the context of Jesus' words will normally help clarify what He is saying. It is true that kingdom terminology can overlap in meaning. Therefore, it can be difficult to come down adamantly on some things He says. The more conservative our interpretation of Scripture is, though, the less we will devolve into inappropriate lines of thought.   Therefore, unless there is a specific reason for including the church in His words, which can be fully explained, it is best to assume He is not addressing the church, but Israel alone.   The main thing for us to do is to keep reading His word. No matter how many times we have done so, we will always learn something new. After a person has a stroke, his brain must rewire around the damaged parts of the brain.   In a similar way, the more we read the word, the more we are able to rewire our thoughts and lives around those things that inappropriately affect our understanding of who God is and what He is saying in His word. Keep in the word! It will never bring you harm. Rather, right thinking will continue to develop in you.   Lord God, time in Your word is like a healing balm to our souls. We are molded more and more to Your mind as we learn it and apply it to our lives. Give us the time and the sense to pick it up, read it, and contemplate it all the days of our lives. Amen.  

AI-powered data centers are significantly more "copper-intensive" than traditional facilities, and their rapid global build-out is set to clash with years of underinvestment in new mines.Today's Stocks & Topics: The Carlyle Group Inc. (CG), Market Wrap, Retirement, AI's Copper Consumption: Is the Data Center Boom Driving a Looming Supply Crunch?, Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (ADM), Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (FCX), KPP Newsletter, Budget Changes, Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ), Vanguard Utilities Index Fund ETF Shares (VPU), Service Corporation International (SCI), Trade Tensions with China.Our Sponsors:* Check out Anthropic: https://claude.ai/INVEST* Check out Gusto: https://gusto.com/investtalk* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.com* Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code INVEST for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Saturday, 11 October 2025   that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: “I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world.” Matthew 13:35   “So it should be fulfilled, the ‘having been spoken through the prophet,' saying, ‘I will open My mouth in parables. I will blurt things having been concealed from foundation – world'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Matthew noted that it was Jesus' habit to speak to the multitude in parables, and when doing so, not speaking to them any other way. He now explains why by citing Scripture. That is introduced with the words, “So it should be fulfilled.”   In other words, and as has been seen before, Matthew is stating that some portion of Scripture is fulfilled by Jesus' actions. In this case, it refers to His conduct in relation to addressing the crowds. What is fulfilled is “the ‘having been spoken through the prophet.'”   Matthew explicitly notes that words spoken by a prophet are fulfilled by what Jesus is doing. Saying “the prophet” indicates that it was a recognized prophet of Israel whose words are recorded in Scripture. The prophet being referred to in this instance is Asaph, whose words are recorded in Psalm 78 –   “I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings of old, 3 Which we have heard and known, And our fathers have told us.” Psalm 78:2, 3   Knowing where the thought came from, Matthew continues, “saying, ‘I will open My mouth in parables.'”   The Hebrew reads, “in parable.” The Greek converts that to the plural, which is then used by Matthew. This sets the tone for how Jesus dealt with the people. As for what that is, Matthew next says, “I will blurt things having been concealed from foundation – world.”   Two new words are seen here. The first is ereugomai, to belch. It is found only here. It is used figuratively to indicate speaking out. A word that ties the sense of both thoughts together is blurt. It is a sudden, abrupt, and poignant mode of speech.   The second new word is katabolé, a deposition. Thus, when referring to the beginning of the earth, it speaks of its foundation.   There are several ways of taking Matthew's thought so that it aligns with the intent of the psalm because the words are not a direct citation. Thus, rather than a quote, a thought is being presented. The likely meaning is derived from the change of speaking “in parable” to “in parables.”   In other words, Asaph spoke in a parable concerning the history of Israel. The psalm is a long recounting of events that occurred. However, the words are then to be considered in a parabolic fashion, having an underlying meaning in addition to the historical references.   The Greek converted the singular to plural. Matthew saw this as an inspired change, pointing to the teaching style of the Messiah. In just the manner that Asaph recorded Israel's history, so Jesus taught the people, reflecting the same type of literary teaching device.   When He opened His mouth, it would be in parables. And in His use of parables, He would blurt out things that had never been heard before, having been concealed in the wisdom of God from eternity past.   Life application: There are times when people get anxious about saying, “Well, Peter said,” or “John says in His epistle.” The thought is, “If this is the word of God, we should say something like, ‘the Lord said,' or ‘the Lord through John said.'”   This is unnecessary. There are abundant times in the New Testament where the words of Scripture are attributed to individuals rather than God. For example, Jesus refers to Moses having commanded something. This is followed in the words of the apostles. The same is true with other names like David and Isaiah.   The reason why this is acceptable is that these people really said or wrote those things, doing so in harmony with the will of the Lord. If a musician like Eddie Van Halen played a tune from Bach, we might say that was an amazing piece Eddie played. At the same time, we could say, I heard a song by Bach today, and it was incredible.   There is a harmonious synergy between the author and the player. This is how Scripture works. When we read Jeremiah, we can see his personal style, choice of words, etc. And yet, we can also know that the hand of divine inspiration was upon him in prophetic utterances, determined proclamations, etc.   There is nothing wrong and everything right about saying it either way, meaning “The Lord said,” or “Jeremiah said.” When we believe in the process of inspiration, we are upholding the value of the word by stating things in this way. Notice how Jesus holds carefully to this process as He explains it to the leaders of Israel –   “Jesus answered them, ‘Has it not been written in your Law: “I said, you are gods'?” 35 If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be nullified), 36 are you saying of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,' because I said, ‘I am the Son of God'?” John 10:34-36 (NASB)   Lord God, help us in our understanding of Your word. Open our eyes so that when we read it, we can comprehend it in ways we may not have previously considered. There is so much depth and richness to it, and we want to understand and experience it all. So help us in this, O God. Amen.

An awakening for many people (including Imhotep in this movie), it was about time guest Theresa was introduced to one of the best (and sexiest) remakes of all time. Her and host Spencer talk about what makes this take on the adventure movie great, including Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz's chemistry, the CG that looks pretty great, and again, just how hot everyone is in this movie.

Friday, 10 October 2025   All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them, Matthew 13:34   “All these, He spoke, Jesus, in parables to the crowds, and besides parable, not He spoke to them” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus told the Parable of the Leaven. Matthew next says, “All these.”   The words indicate the parables just given by Matthew. A set of them has been recorded, but no explanation for them is provided to the people. Understanding this, Matthew continues, saying, “He spoke, Jesus, in parables to the crowds.”   Matthew confirms that these words were spoken by Jesus, as noted before, it isn't certain if these were all said at this one time or recorded categorically. The words now seem to tend to the former. However, having explained the parable of the sower between the other parables gives a strong hint that it is actually just the opposite.   Either way, the way that Matthew states this verse needs careful attention. In this clause, the verb is in the aorist tense. Jesus spoke to the crowds about these particular parables. He next says, “and besides parable, not He spoke to them.”   A new word, chóris, without, is stated. It is derived from chora, a space of territory which, in turn, gives the sense of room. Therefore, chóris means “at a space.” As the word is accompanied by the word “not,” it means that He wasn't speaking to them any other way.   However, the verb is imperfect. Meyer's NT Commentary further rightly defines it as a relative imperfect. As such, the words do not necessarily mean that Jesus only spoke to the crowds in Israel with parables. But when He was speaking these parables, it was the only way He spoke, meaning that He didn't speak plainly by explaining the meaning of the parable.   The understanding of that is seen in the explanation found in Mark 4 –   “And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.” Mark 4:33, 34   By looking side-by-side at the two clauses with their precise wording, the sense becomes more evident –   *All these (the parables just recorded), He spoke (aorist), Jesus, in parables (plural) to the crowds. *And besides parable (singular), not He spoke (imperfect) to them   He spoke these parables, but He was not explaining any parable that he spoke. Only when He was alone with the disciples would he then explain the parables.   It is common for scholars to insist that these words are intended to mean that Jesus spoke only in parables at all times when speaking to the crowds. But Meyer's challenges that notion, stating –   “The absolute sense in which the words are understood by Baumgarten-Crusius and Hilgenfeld is inconsistent with historical facts; nor could Matthew, or Mark 4:34, have intended the words to be so taken without being guilty of the grossest absurdity.”   Life application: The discussion above highlights particular nuances of the text that are debated over. Not understanding the precise intent doesn't mean that someone now has the wrong doctrine. Rather, they may have a misunderstanding of the nuances of what is written. This is evident by reading various translations of the verse.   Despite not having the exact sense of what is being said, anyone reading the text can get the major points. There is the understanding that the use of parables when speaking to the crowd was important. Through His words, prophecy was being fulfilled. That is the major point to be understood.   As one grows in knowledge and understanding of the nuances, a clearer grasp of the overall intent is realized. This is why some people are plumbers who read the Bible from time to time, and then there are scholars who read and study its every nuance.   Unfortunately, some scholars come to the text wanting to tear it apart, find contradictions, demonstrate that they are smarter than the text as given by God, etc. From there, people read their analyses, believe them because these scholars are more understanding of the text than the average Joe, and they believe what they hear.   This leads to weak believers who cannot trust the word of God. The deeper you get into the details, the more you should study many scholars and contemplate what you read. Don't take anything at face value, even if the argument seems convincing at first.   Be assured, there is nothing wrong with God's word. If you come to it with this understanding, you will be in the sweet spot, even if you never find a resolution to the question you are looking for. Someday, the perfection of God's word will be fully comprehended by us all.   Lord God, help us to carefully treat Your word, never diminishing it or trying to find fault with it. If it is Your word, it is just what You intended for us. As You are without fault, we know that what You say will be as well. Help us to carry with us the understanding that Your word is sacred and should be treated as such. Amen.

Thursday, 9 October 2025   Another parable He spoke to them: “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened.” Matthew 13:33   “Another parable He presented them, ‘The kingdom of the heavens, it is like leaven which a woman, having taken, she concealed in flour – three measures – until it all, it leavened'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus finished the parable of the mustard seed. With it complete, Matthew records, “Another parable He presented them.”   As noted previously. It is unknown if these parables were all stated at the same time or if Matthew is recording them in a categorical fashion. Either way, however, Jesus begins the Parable, saying, “The kingdom of the heavens, it is like leaven.”   Here is a new word, zumé, ferment, as in boiling up. Thus, it refers to leaven, which causes a change, usually through rising (as in bread) or some other type of reaction, such as in the process of making beer.   The meaning of the parable is highly debated. However, yeast is consistently given as a type of spreading evil, and thus sin. This is true in both testaments, either typologically or figuratively –   “Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? 7 Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us. 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.” 1 Corinthians 5:6-8   Many commentators feel that this parable must be an exception to that. If so, it would be an extremely unusual outlier. As for Jesus' words, He continues, saying, “which a woman, having taken, she concealed in flour.”   Here is another new word, egkruptó, to conceal. The idea is concealing through incorporation. The woman takes the leaven and incorporates it into the dough. When looking at it, no one would even know that it was leavened. Only when the effects are realized after the reaction would it be known that it was in there.   Putting yeast into flour will inevitably result in the dough being affected. Yeast was never to be presented to the Lord in the sacrifices and offerings of Israel, with but two exceptions (Leviticus 7:13 & Leviticus 23:17).   Those exceptions were specifically given in typology, indicating that because of Jesus, the redeemed are considered acceptable to God even though they are sinful people. As for the leavened dough, Jesus continues, saying, “three measures – until it all, it leavened.”   In Scripture, the number three “...stands for that which is solid, real, substantial, complete, and entire” (Bullinger). It is the number of divine perfection. Thus, there is the notion of divine perfection in what Jesus is stating concerning this picture of the kingdom of the heavens.   Concerning the parable, as noted above, the meaning continues to be debated. Most commentators agree that the words are the only exception to the spiritual meaning of leaven. Rather than it being a negative thing, it is taken as a positive thing, as if the leaven itself is an instrument for good.   But this seems contrary. Leaven consistently signifies sin throughout the Old Testament, including the two times it is presented to the Lord. It is then used in this manner by Jesus in the gospels, such as Matthew 16:6. It is later used this way by Paul in 1 Corinthians and Galatians.   Despite this, commentators waffle on the meaning here because of the association that is made with the kingdom of the heavens. “How could the influence of sin be seen in the kingdom of the heavens?” But for the sake of consistency and evaluating it from that perspective, meaning taking it as a picture of sin, what is going on that could allow this?    What seems a suitable explanation is that the woman is a picture of the wisdom of God, something particularly highlighted in Proverbs 1. Jesus uses that idea of the feminine wisdom in Luke 7 –   “For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.' 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' 35 But wisdom is justified by all her children.” Luke 7:33-35   Jesus came to save sinners. He specifically notes them in these words as those He associated with. The three measures indicate the entire course of the kingdom of the heavens, where everything is substantial, complete, entire, etc. There is the notion of divine perfection having been attained.   How is sin realized? Through law. Without law, there is no imputation of sin. Even if sin is worked through the entire body of Christ, something that is an undeniable fact, it has been dealt with. Therefore, the picture Christ is painting is that of a body of believers, all stained with sin, and yet acceptable to God, as is clearly represented in Leviticus 23:17.   To understand that typology, one should refer to the Superior Word sermon on that passage. The wisdom of God is that even among the sinful people of the world, where sin is fully worked into those who are a part of Christ's offering to Him, Christ's atonement, His covering, is sufficient to make them acceptable to God once again.   This is the substance of the gospel where Christ died for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3). The explicit meaning is that we are sinners, have acknowledged that fact, and are asking for forgiveness through what Jesus has done. The others in the world are just as sinful, but they lack the suitable atonement to be acceptable to God. Therefore, they cannot be presented to Him as acceptable.   Only in Christ is sin dealt with. This is the wisdom of God –   “To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; 10 to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, 11 according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.” Ephesians 3:8-12   Life application: Consistency in typology is an important part of understanding what is going on in the pages of Scripture. It is best not to divert from what is typologically set without a supportable purpose that can be clearly defined and explained.   It is true that one thing can have more than one meaning, such as the significance of water, but the symbolism is given by God in His word, not conjured up by us and then inserted into it.   Be careful not to manipulate what is presented in Scripture. Your time in the word will be much more fruitful and aligned with God's intent when typology is used consistently after care and thought have been taken to ensure it aligns with the rest of Scripture.   Lord God, help us to understand Your word. It is big and at times extremely complicated. May we not force things into it that don't belong there. Instead, open our minds to draw out from it what is present by You and then to consistently evaluate it from that point on. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

Bob Woodruff is a highly regarded, award-winning journalist with ABC News. He joined CG on KMJ's Fresno's Morning News to discuss how he arrived into broadcast journalism from a previous career while in Beijing, China, the dangers of reporters in war zones, recovering from a TBI he received after an IED detonated while he was in Iraq, the 36-day medically induced coma which followed and the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which has raised more than $160 million. The Christopher Gabriel Program ----------------------------------------------------------- Please Like, Comment and Follow 'The Christopher Gabriel Program' on all platforms: The Christopher Gabriel Program is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. --- The Christopher Gabriel Program | Website | Facebook | X | Instagram | --- Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday, 8 October 2025   which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.” Matthew 13:32   “Which, indeed, it is least of all seeds. And when it may be grown, it is greater than the tillings, and it becomes a tree, so the birds of the sky come and encamp in its branches” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus began what is known as the Parable of the Mustard Seed. He finishes that short parable in this verse, beginning with, “Which, indeed, it is least of all seeds.”   Saying “the least of all seeds” is an agricultural reference that the people would understand, not a scientific analysis of all seeds on the planet, be they of plant or animal life.   Jesus already set the parameters by saying that it was seed to be sown into the field. People don't sow orchid seeds into a field expecting a crop of edible food to arise. Understanding this, He continues, saying, “And when it may be grown, it is greater than the tillings.”   The word lachanon, a garden herb, vegetable, etc., is introduced here. It is derived from lachaino, to dig. Thus, it is a seed for which tilling takes place, after which it is planted. The closest word in English is likely tillings, which, like the Greek word, highlights the action that took place.   The word is inclusive of fruits, herbs, and vegetables, as can be seen from Paul's words in Romans 14:2, where the same word is used –   “For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables [lachanon: tillings].”   Jesus even uses the word to describe what was tithed by the people, indicating the value of the act of labor and harvest behind what is offered –   “But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs [lachanon: tillings], and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.” Luke 11:42   For deniers of the Bible to try to equate Jesus' words to mean “all seed without exception” is a ridiculous proposition. He is speaking in specific terms concerning particular seeds intended to produce a certain outcome for the people. With this understood, He next says, “and it becomes a tree.”   This is a teeny-weeny little seed when it is planted, and yet, unlike other seeds that start bigger and only then grow into small plants, this little champion grows into a tree. This tree increases to be quite large, “so the birds of the sky come and encamp in its branches.”   Two more words are introduced. The first is kataskénoó, to encamp. It is derived from skénoó, to tent, which, in turn, comes from skénos, a tent. The prefix kata intensifies the word. Thus, it signifies to encamp.   The other new word is klados, a twig or bough, and thus a branch. The little seed has developed into a hero of an herb, towering over the other seeds that started bigger than it did. Hooray for the mustard seed!   Life application: It is good not to judge things based on how they started. From small beginnings often come great things. Jesus started with a small number of disciples. His ministry was in a small piece of land, and the message was first heard by a comparably small number of people to the inhabitants of that land. This can be deduced from the evangelism that took place there in the book of Acts. Of those who heard it, only a small number accepted what He said.   Human history is filled with the record of insignificant people having had a great impact on the course of history. Out of all of the billions of books in the world, one has truly changed the path on which humanity has been.   Other books that have been widely published and disseminated have had a great impact, often negative, on the world, like the Koran. But that and all other books have failed to change the state of man from sinful and lost before God, to having obtained salvation and eternal life through the message of reconciliation found in the Bible.   Little churches may have a small gathering on Sunday, and in today's world, they may have little online audiences as well, and yet, they may have more of a worthwhile theological impact on the people of the world than the largest of mega churches on the planet.   While the larger churches are dealing in theological fluff intended to fall easily on the ears of the congregants, the message of sound pastors and preachers is intended to change and develop the hearts and minds of those who are willing to be conformed to the will of God.   Never underestimate the power of small beginnings. Think about the heroic mustard seed and the delight it brings to the palates of people around the world. Well done, little seed – approved by God for such a purpose. Well done.   O God, may we not fret when the things we do are not noticed by the world around us. If what we are doing is right and proper in Your eyes, we are fulfilling our purpose for the life You have given us. Who needs bigger and shinier when such things will someday deflate or corrode away? Help us to focus on the eternal, thus glorifying You. Amen.  

Tuesday, 7 October 2025   Another parable He put forth to them, saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, Matthew 13:31   “Another parable He presented them, saying, ‘The kingdom of the heavens, it is like a mustard kernel, which a man, having taken, he sowed in his field'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus completed the parable of the sower. Without any intervening thoughts, it says, “Another parable He presented them.”   Whether this was actually stated one parable after another, or if this one is just placed here by Matthew categorically may be debated, but either way, the information is presented to continue to illuminate Jesus' instruction through this teaching method. Understanding this, He was “saying, ‘The kingdom of the heavens, it is like a mustard kernel.'”   Two new words are introduced. The first is kokkos, a kernel of seed or simply a grain. As a different word is used for seed, that is not a great choice for translation, although some versions use it. The second word is sinapi, mustard. Strong's said the word may be derived from sinomai, to hurt. Thus, it would explain the biting flavor of the herb.   Those listening would know immediately what Jesus was referring to. Being an agrarian society, the people would understand the various seeds that were available. Further, Mom would have them all around the house for use in the kitchen. In this case, the reason for using the mustard seed in His example will be seen in the next verse, but the people would know it already.   Therefore, His words are not an explanation of the seed. Rather, they will be used as a comparison. As such, it isn't cheating to explain that the mustard seed was the smallest seed used by farmers in the land at the time. Of this eensy weensy seed, Jesus next says, “which a man, having taken, he sowed in his field.”   Mustard seeds grow into mustard plants. These bear more mustard seeds (see Genesis 1:11). Mustard seeds have many uses. They can be kept whole or ground up when used in cooking. They are prized for their nutty, spicy flavor, which is used in dishes such as curries, pickled treats, dressings, marinades, etc.   They are also used in condiments. Beyond these culinary-type applications, they are considered to have health benefits. They can also be used to make mustard oil. These and a host of other uses explain why farmers would have mustard plants in their gardens. Jesus will make His comparison as He continues.   Life application: In Mark 4, the same parable says the following (as translated by the NKJV, et al.) –   “Then He said, ‘To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? 31 It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on earth.”   This seems to be an error on Jesus' part. The mustard seed is not the smallest seed on earth. How will you take that newly presented information? If Jesus is God incarnate, wouldn't He know this? Will you now close your Bible and give up on your faith?   A few points should clear this up. The first is that despite other seeds being smaller, such as types of orchids, man doesn't sow them into the ground for food, which is what Jesus just implied in His words. There may be seeds that are smaller that are sown (point 1) for food (point 2), though. What if there are?   The word translated as earth in Mark 4 is gé. It does not necessarily mean “the inhabited globe known as Earth.” Rather, it is just as often, or even more commonly, translated as soil (Matthew 13:8), ground (Matthew 10:29), or land (Matthew 10:15), etc. In other words, there is a context to what is being said. When speaking of the coming Messiah in Matthew 4, the word is used when referring to the land (gé) of Zebulun and the land (gé) of Naphtali.   Jesus is sitting in Israel talking to people who live in an agrarian-based economy. When He tells them this is the smallest seed used for sowing in a plot of land in Israel for gardening, He is telling them both the truth and something of which they were perfectly aware.   He was not concerned about orchid seeds in the Amazon jungle, nor were His listeners. There must be a context to every statement made by Jesus, or a challenge against His words is simply given to form a pretext.   If you are presented with a difficulty in what is said in the word, don't close your Bible, curse God for having fooled you into believing He exists when He doesn't (which is kind of ridiculous, because if you are cursing God who doesn't exist, you are wasting your breath!), and then spend the rest of your life mocking Christians for being so blind.   Rather, check out what you have been told, consider the information from the context presented, and understand why Jesus says what He says. When you do, you will find that His detractors are the inane ones. Your faith is well placed. Your hope is in a real Savior who came from the true God who created all things.   Jesus Christ is not wrong in His words about the mustard seed. His detractors are the ones who will stand before Him in judgment someday. Hold fast to your faith.   Glorious God Almighty, thank You for the wisdom of Your word. It is a marvelous place for us to find the truth, to rightly direct our hope, and to find the love that extends from You for Your creatures. Thank You above all that in it, we find Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.  

Send us a textThe final part of our podcast season of, 'Dodgy 90s Superhero Movies' is here, and this week, we take a look back at the most dodgy and the most 90s of the bunch, 1997's, Spawn. A movie that many (including us) have (had?) very fond memories of. Does it hold up though? Just how bad does the CG look in 2025? More importantly, can a movie have both pretty good visual effects and, well, perhaps the worst example of VFX in mainstream movie history? Oh, the answer is yes by the way. Still, with a genuinely compelling performance from John Leguizamo and a villainess turn from Martin Sheen, it has to be worth a watch, right?.....Right?Listen in via the link in the bio. 

Monday, 6 October 2025   Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.”'” Matthew 13:30   “You allow both to co-grow until the harvest. And in the harvest season, I will say to the harvesters, ‘You gather first the darnel, and you bind them into bundles to incinerate them, and wheat you collect into my barn'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus said that the servants of the landowner were instructed not to gather up the darnel, lest they should also uproot the wheat with them. He continues the landowner's words, saying, “You allow both to co-grow until the harvest.”   A word is seen only here in Scripture, sunauxanó, to co-grow. It is derived from sun, with or together, and auxanó, to grow. As for the words of the landowner, there is no point in causing harm to the efforts of the sower and those who then tend to the wheat as it grows.   Leaving the darnel, though it may affect the growth of surrounding plants due to soaking up needed moisture, is not something that will destroy them. As the labor needs to be done at one point or another, there is no reason for causing more harm than good while the crop is maturing. As such, he continues, “And in the harvest season.”   The Greek reads, “and in season the harvest.” The article is before harvest, but it is lacking before season. There is a season when the harvest will be ready. It is then that the harvest is gathered. At this time, the landowner continues, “I will say to the harvesters, ‘You gather first the darnel.'”   Although the truths found in the parable can apply to any dispensation to some extent, these words negate the parable being applied specifically to the church age. There is no indication in Scripture, and every reason to reject the notion, that false teachers will be gathered out of the church before the pre-tribulation rapture. The timeline for the rapture is set by God through Paul's writings. It is his writings that revealed the mystery, including its very specific details concerning the event and its timeline.   As such, though points from the parable can be used to refer to truths within the church age, such as not pulling up the darnel before the harvest, the gathering of false teachers before the rapture is not something that will occur. As for this harvest, the landowner continues, “and you bind them into bundles to incinerate them.”   Unless Jesus is simply making a point about false teachers being spiritually gathered for the day of judgment, having been identified as such at the time of the rapture, these words continue to dispel the notion that this is referring to the church age. Such an analysis, though highly unlikely, is not out of the realm of possibility, but the gathering and binding of false teachers is not a physical event that will take place during the church age.   Therefore, if these words are referring to the church age, there needs to be a specific spiritualization of some of what is being said. Based on Jesus' coming explanation, the points He makes do not accurately fit into the doctrine of the rapture at the end of the church age. Either way, the landowner finishes his instructions with, “and wheat you collect into my barn.”   John the Baptist has already given hints of this event and what precedes it, saying, “Whose winnower - in His hand, and He will thoroughly cleanse His threshing-floor. And He will gather His wheat into the granary, but the chaff He will incinerate – fire unquenchable.”   Therefore, there is judgment on those who are considered darnel, there is a separation of those who are considered chaff, and then there will be a time when these will be cast into unquenchable fire, incinerating them for eternity.   Jesus will explain this parable later in the chapter, but its truths are readily discernible by understanding the metaphors He uses.   Life application: As noted, this parable, though containing truths that exist in the church age, does not fit the sequence of events as laid out by Paul concerning the rapture. The sequence of events as the church age closes out is carefully detailed by him –   1) Rapture of the church, 2) the falling away and the revealing of the Antichrist, 3) the day of Christ (Day of the Lord).   The rapture is an event that will have no sign preceding it. It will occur suddenly, in the twinkling of an eye, and the church age will end. Until that day, we should be about the business of the church. Too many hours are squandered away by believers who have an unhealthy fixation on the rapture.   Be productive, know that Christ is coming, and in the flash of an instant, we shall be gathered to Him. This is great news for those who are His. For the rest of the world... not so much.   Glorious God, what a wonderful hope we possess because of what You have done in the sending of Jesus. May we be busy in sharing this news with others as we await the wonderful day when we are gathered and brought into Your glorious presence. Amen.

Sunday, 5 October 2025   But he said, ‘No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. Matthew 13:29    “And he said, ‘No! Not lest gathering the darnel, you should uproot with them the wheat'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus said that the servants of the landowner asked him if he wanted them to gather up the darnel from the field of grain. He continues now with, “And he said, ‘No! Not lest gathering the darnel, you should uproot with them the wheat.'”   A new word, ekrizoó, to uproot, is seen. It is derived from ek, from or out of, and rhizoó, to root. Hence, it is to uproot. If you've ever worked in a garden, you know the wisdom of the landowner's decision. When you have weeds around the plant you are growing and pull them out, you can often damage your plant's roots or even pull the plant out with the weeds.   In the case of the darnel, its roots would be entangled with the good stalks, easily ruining them if you try to pull it out. There is also the chance of treading on the good stalks while going through the field to get the darnel.   And even if both of those were avoided, as noted above, the soil around the good stalks could be disturbed enough to negatively affect or kill those nearby. It is not worth the risk to take such chances.   Life application: Think of the patience and wisdom of the Lord. The devil has his dirty fingers all over the church, even since the very beginning. At the earliest days of the church, Paul and the other New Testament writers were writing letters of warning to the churches concerning those who were harmful darnel within the good crop –   “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. 18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:17, 18   “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days.” James 5:1-3   “But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.” 2 Peter 2:1   “I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, does not receive us. 10 Therefore, if I come, I will call to mind his deeds which he does, prating against us with malicious words. And not content with that, he himself does not receive the brethren, and forbids those who wish to, putting them out of the church. 11 Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God.” 3 John -9-11   “These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage. 17 But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: 18 how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. 19 These are sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit.” Jude -16-19   Think of it. These people were writing in the very earliest days of the church. Each personally encountered the risen Christ. And yet, they were already warning of the proverbial darnel among the wheat. But the Lord's example in this parable was to allow them to continue lest good stalks were harmed in the process.   But can't these false teachers harm the crop as well? The answer is, “Most assuredly.” This is why these warnings have been written. But how are you, a stalk of good grain in the body of believers, going to avoid being harmed by them? By knowing what the word says!   It is not sufficient to trust your pastor. He could be one of the false brethren noted above! Didn't the church suffer (and it still suffers to this day) through the teaching of people like Joseph Smith, Charles Taze Russell, Ellen G. White, and innumerable other false teachers? Haven't countless people lost their lives to false teachers like Jim Jones and David Koresh?   Display wisdom! Know what the Bible says by reading it daily. When a false teacher enters into your sphere of existence, you will be able to identify him (or her!) and alert others. Be sure to do so. The Lord will take care of them in the end, but we have our part to do now.   Glorious God, give us wisdom in identifying false doctrine and those who teach it. May we responsibly handle Your word, learning it and being on the lookout for those who might harm the crop the Lord is preparing. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

Saturday, 4 October 2025   He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.' The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them up?' Matthew 13:28   “And he said to them, ‘Enemy! A man did this!' And the servants, they said to him, ‘You incline, therefore, having gone, we should gather them?'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that the servants of the landowner came to him and asked him whether or not he had sown good seed in his field because there was also darnel growing in it. Jesus continues, saying, “And he said to them, ‘Enemy! A man did this!'”   The owner, without throwing an unfounded accusation at anyone in particular, identifies the problem immediately. An enemy has entered his field and sown darnel in with his good seed. In stating it this way, it could include or exclude anyone, even if the owner had already identified in his mind who was responsible.   Further, it could be that there is a main enemy who has used agents to accomplish his destructive work. Nothing is excluded by the way the statement has been presented. With this stated as a certain fact, Jesus continues, “And the servants, they said to him, ‘You incline, therefore, having gone, we should gather them?'”   With the understanding that there is a problem, and that it has been caused by an enemy, the servants are desirous to see the matter resolved. However, they intend to do whatever the master has determined, and so they ask his opinion. In essence, “We can take care of the darnel now if you want. We can identify it and remove it right away.”   The choice of what to do with it is now in the landowner's court. Whatever he decides will be what they follow through with.   Life application: This parable presents a truth that is not limited to a particular dispensation. During the time before the flood, there were those already identified as “sons of the God,” meaning those who were of faith in the promise of God concerning the coming of a Messiah. Noah was “a preacher of righteousness” from this line.   The world was filled with darnel that needed to be removed. The same is true after the flood. Job was of the “sons of the God.” The implication is that there were others who were not, simply because the group he worshiped with was. A contrast between the two exists. Likewise, during the time of the law, there were those who were of faith and those who were not.   That truth exists in the church today. There are those who are sons of God, a term noted in verses such as Romans 8:14. The context of Paul's words indicates that there is a contrast between them and those who are not sons of God.   Within these groups are obviously those who claim they are of the seed of God who are not. They may look like true sons. But eventually, they will fail to produce the proper fruit and other characteristics that sufficiently identify who is of the true seed.   Whatever dispensation Jesus is equating His thoughts to for the sake of the parable, it is a truth that has existed and which continues to exist in the world. It may be that the parable is intended to cover any such situation.   Understanding that there are such people in the world, even in government or private entities, we can more carefully consider what is going on around us. For example, if you are employed by the government, there are certainly bad actors who have been planted in your area by those who intend harm.   Communist countries like Russia and China have cultivated people for eons to enter into the military and steal information as well as sow discord. They look like anyone else in uniform, but they are there with evil intent.   This is true with any branch of government. People elected to office, even in the highest positions in the land, have been groomed by unfriendly governments to infiltrate and ruin our society. It is our responsibility to carefully evaluate those around us, whether in our workplace, church, government, etc., and be careful not to allow those who bear bad fruit to ruin the efforts of those who are working for the proper purpose intended by the one in charge.   In the case of the church, Jesus has set the standard. It is recorded in the word. When we find that someone has entered into the church at large who is bearing bad fruit, it is our responsibility to identify him as such.   At times, however, some take this to unintended extremes, identifying every little pet peeve of theirs as proof of someone being a false prophet or a false teacher. Likewise, false teachers level accusations against true believers, claiming what is sound doctrine is actually false.   The only way to sort through this mess is to read and know what the Bible says. It is our blueprint for proper living and a right understanding of what is true and what is false within the church. Know your Bible!   Lord God, it is hard to sort through all of the accusations directed at people in the ministry, claiming they present a false message of some sort. Help us to go to the source for understanding this, Your word, in order to rightly identify what is true and what is false. Help us in this, Lord. Your word is big and filled with a lot of information. Give us understanding in it as we seek out Your truth. Amen.

Friday, 3 October 2025   So the servants of the owner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?' Matthew 13:27   “And having come, the servants of the housemaster, they said to him, ‘Lord, not good seed you sowed in your field? Whence, therefore, it has darnel?'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus continued the parable of the wheat and the darnel. He continues further, saying, “And having come, the servants of the housemaster, they said to him, ‘Lord, not good seed you sowed in your field?'”   It is an obvious question to set the tone of voice for what will next be said. There is darnel rising in the field along with the wheat. Rather than abruptly telling the master it is so, making him look incompetent, it is natural to ask in a positive manner. It will allow him to deduce on his own what must have taken place. As such, they continue with, “Whence, therefore, it has darnel?”   A new word is introduced, pothen, whence. It gives the sense of from which or from what. In this case, a single word to define the intent and speaking style would be whence. They know the answer to their own question, it being rhetorical in nature. Therefore, they continue with an obvious follow-up question to help alleviate the owner's tension.   Life application: Having tact when approaching a sensitive matter is important. Barging up to someone and telling him that his brother just died without showing care and empathy would be considered rude. The same is true with any sensitive matter.   In some cases, people can get upset or angry over things we might not even consider sensitive. Such instances cannot be helped. But we can take the general idea of tact that is understood in a given society with us when we talk to others. Being the bearer of news means that responsibility is attached to the delivery.   As some people lack any sense of tact at all, it is good to identify them and make a mental tag, never assigning them to passing on sensitive matters. They may even be close friends, but it is important to make these types of divisions in our minds and remember them. Learn who around you can't keep a secret.   Such a person might be the nicest guy around, but he just cannot keep quiet when entrusted with information. So mark him as such and keep from sharing things that may be sensitive with him. This thought can even extend further, such as knowing personal relationships that exist around you. Someone who is normally trustworthy may have a beef with someone or a group of people.   Knowing this and keeping harmony between the disaffected parties is important. So the more situational awareness you have, the more effective you will be in keeping seemingly little things from getting out of hand. Pay attention to such things. Work on developing your skills in identifying who should carry a word or message about a matter, and then deploy this knowledge wisely. Such things are seen even in Scripture –   “Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said, ‘Let me run now and take the news to the king, how the Lord has avenged him of his enemies.' 20 And Joab said to him, ‘You shall not take the news this day, for you shall take the news another day. But today you shall take no news, because the king's son is dead.' 21 Then Joab said to the Cushite, ‘Go, tell the king what you have seen.' So the Cushite bowed himself to Joab and ran.” 2 Samuel 18:19-21   Lord God, grant us the wisdom to be situationally aware concerning matters of tact, diplomacy, and trust. The world is a place where people can get easily hurt or offended. So help us to be wise and discerning in matters that require special care. Yes, Lord, be with us and help us to grow wise in such matters. Amen.  

00:00:00 – Cold Open, Clips & Chaos Loose intro, tech hiccups, and a fast pivot into “clips of the week,” featuring a barrage of Alex Jones soundbites (old gravelly vs. current voice), plus a quick, context-free Trump clip to set the show's tone. 00:10:00 – “It's All Happening” & Bankruptcy Theater Speculation that sheriff's deputies could seize Alex Jones/Infowars gear “as early as tomorrow,” with riffs on the supposed value of studio computers and Jones' knack for rebooting operations overnight. 00:20:00 – Area 51 Double-Header: Gunfire & a “Mysterious Aircraft” Two back-to-back incidents near Area 51/Creech/Nellis spark theories: contamination and an escape attempt, witness suppression by “making him look erratic,” or a PSYOP stress test to coordinate base responses. Hosts play a local TV hit about a drone/aircraft “incident” and connect dots with humor (and rock-lifting dares at the gate). 00:30:00 – Hollywood vs. Synthetic Stars Debate over an “AI actress” getting agent attention and a producer touting a film “helmed” by a virtual director; SAG-AFTRA pushback; the hosts argue audiences still want human experience—even if cartoons/CG are beloved. They predict an “AI first hit, then bust” cycle. 00:40:00 – Pets: Love, Debt, and Domestic Diplomacy A sobering segment on pet costs (lifetime cat/dog totals), “pet poverty,” and the real logistics of blending a dog-and-cat household; one story has a couple divorcing over warring pets. Personal anecdotes, math-y back-of-the-napkin costs, and hard-won advice. 00:50:00 – What Happens After We Die? (UVA's DOPS) Deep dive into UVA's Division of Perceptual Studies: near-death experience patterns (tunnels, life review, veridical O.R. details under anesthesia), cultural lenses, and lingering unknowns because…consciousness itself remains unsolved. 01:00:00 – Space Rocks, Nukes, and the Wow Signal An asteroid with a small chance of hitting the Moon in 2032 prompts “nuke it?” jokes and movie throwbacks (Deep Impact/Armageddon), while Avi Loeb's musing ties 3I/ATLAS to the 1977 “Wow!” signal—fun, provocative speculation. 01:10:00 – Fat Bear Season & Aisle 9: Bear Animal news palate cleanser: Fat Bear Week hype (why bulking matters before hibernation) and a baby bear wandering into an Arizona grocery store—equal parts cute and chaotic. (Video described; no injuries.) 01:20:00 – Pumpkin Spice Cabal They uncover Starbucks' “Leaf Rakers Society,” a private, all-things-autumn fan group with a tongue-in-cheek “secret handshake,” and riff about seasonal cult vibes, memes, and moderators keeping things squeaky clean. 01:30:00 – Local Roads, Bad Choices Ohio highway anecdotes and viral clips: drivers stopping in live lanes to force last-second exits; ODOT scolding; a reminder to “take the next exit” instead of causing carnage. 01:40:00 – Night-Snack Science: What Not to Eat Before Bed From aged cheeses (tyramine → stress hormones) to salty chips and sugar bombs, they run a late-night food blacklist with comedic “bedtime steak” and cereal confessions—and why those choices sabotage sleep. 01:50:00 – Sleep Killers, Continued More don'ts (donuts, spicy foods, soda, etc.), wrapped in escalating bits about in-bed snacking disasters and derailed diets—plus one last Alex-style rant cameo for good measure. 02:00:00 – Wind-Down & Housekeeping Quick recap, moderation jokes (“in moderation, my guy”), thanks to listeners, site/merch housekeeping, and a sign-off that hints at more weird news next time. Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research ▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀ ► Website: http://obdmpod.com ► Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/obdmpod ► Full Videos at Odysee: https://odysee.com/@obdm:0 ► Twitter: https://twitter.com/obdmpod ► Instagram: obdmpod ► Email: ourbigdumbmouth at gmail ► RSS: http://ourbigdumbmouth.libsyn.com/rss ► iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/our-big-dumb-mouth/id261189509?mt=2  

Thursday, 2 October 2025   But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. Matthew 13:26   “And when it sprouted, the grass, and it yielded fruit, then it appeared, also, the darnel” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that the field of wheat was invaded by an enemy who went in and sowed darnel among the wheat. With that action accomplished, it next says, “And when it sprouted, the grass, and it yielded fruit.”   When the two plants first begin to grow, they are almost indistinguishable. Both look like grass in their early stages. So much is this the case that only the most observant person would be able to tell the difference. But nobody would normally look for such differences, assuming that all of the field was sown with wheat, which is what originally occurred.   However, as the two plants continue to grow, noticeable differences begin to occur. The color of the wheat begins to turn the familiar golden brown, and the heads will begin to nod or bow on the stem as they approach harvesting time. The darnel, however, remains greener and continues to stand upright. It is as this maturing time approaches that Jesus says, “then it appeared, also, the darnel.”   The evident differences have alerted the farmers that there is a problem. Darnel has been found among the wheat. This is a problem that must be rectified. However, as will be seen, the decision of how to do so must be handled by the owner.   Life application: The differences between the wheat and the darnel can teach us things that the people of Israel would already know. They were an agrarian society, and these things would be common knowledge as the people interacted with the farms each year.   Wheat is a grain crop. Its seeds are nutritious and are used to make flour for bread, pasta, cakes, pasties (oh! pastries), crackers, etc. The straw also has uses, such as insulation, animal bedding, paper, etc. Further, the wheat byproducts can be used in animal feed. These include the bran and the germ. The whole plant has some uses that are beneficial. There are seven stages of wheat growth –   Growth Stage 1: Germination. When the seed absorbs water, growth from the seed's dormant state begins. Growth Stage 2: Leaf Development. The sprout rises and forms. Growth Stage 3: Tillering. The grass forms new stems or shoots from its base, thus increasing the overall density. Growth Stage 4: Stem Elongation. The stems continue upward, preparing for the next stage. Growth Stage 5: Booting. The head, now fully formed, is enclosed within the swollen sheath of the flag leaf. This is just before the head fully comes forth. Growth Stage 6: Inflorescence Emergence, Heading. It is when the visible appearance of the grain, known as the inflorescence, emerges. This is the transition point between the vegetative and reproductive phases. Growth Stage 7: Flowering, Anthesis. The blossoms open and become functional, and the reproductive stage is realized.   Darnel grows about the same height and the same speed as wheat, mimicking it until a certain point. The seeds are much lighter than the wheat, and this is why they continue to stand up while the wheat bows. Darnel is poisonous to both humans and livestock. Their side effects are dizziness, nausea, and even death when consumed in high amounts.   The roots of the two plants can get intertwined. Because of this, an obvious negative effect of pulling the darnel out is seen. This is why their state must be decided by the owner. As for the end purpose, wheat is harvested, processed, and the grain is stored as a valuable source of food. The darnel, however, is separated from the wheat, heaped up, and burned.   Reread the two descriptions (which are not all-inclusive of their traits) and think about how closely each represents what you would expect as you evaluate teachers, preachers, and congregants within the larger church (or within the people of Israel at the time of Jesus).   Think about churches with proper doctrine, sound handling of Scripture, and proper growth of the people. Contrast them with other churches you may have attended, or church figures you may have seen on TV, or heard about.   Lord God, even the grasses of the fields can teach us lessons about You, Your wisdom, what You cherish among people, and what You find repulsive and offensive. If we just open our eyes and compare the world around us to what You tell us in Your word, we can learn so very much. Help us to do so as we interact with Your word and the world we live in. Amen.  

Wednesday, 1 October 2025   but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. Matthew 13:25   “And in the ‘sleeps the men,' he came, his enemy, and he sowed darnel in between the wheat, and he went away” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus began the parable of the wheat and the darnel. He continues now, saying, “And in the ‘sleeps the men,'”   Fields are not normally things that get attacked. In daily life, people go out to their fields, come in, and eventually go to bed. Guards are not posted, and there are usually no walls or fences around agricultural fields unless it is an area which necessitates it.   In this case, while those who work in the field were sleeping, Jesus continues with, “he came, his enemy, and he sowed darnel in between the wheat, and he went away.”   A new word, zizanion, darnel, is introduced. It refers to a poisonous rye grass that closely resembles wheat as it sprouts out of the earth. It is used figuratively when speaking of false believers who spring up among those who truly believe.   The man had an enemy who disliked him enough to actually go in and cause him grief. But in this world, there are all kinds of people who are willing to harm others simply because they have a personal beef with them. This is not unheard of in the Bible. Though the reasons are given, what occurred between Absalom and Joab shows that a person's crops can be a target between those who disagree at times –   “And Absalom dwelt two full years in Jerusalem, but did not see the king's face. 29 Therefore Absalom sent for Joab, to send him to the king, but he would not come to him. And when he sent again the second time, he would not come. 30 So he said to his servants, ‘See, Joab's field is near mine, and he has barley there; go and set it on fire.' And Absalom's servants set the field on fire. 31 Then Joab arose and came to Absalom's house, and said to him, ‘Why have your servants set my field on fire?'” 2 Samuel 14:28-31   Life application: Jesus' words could be considered from many different angles. We could apply them to our work environment, our family life, our church, etc. When we are being productive in a particular area, it is to be expected that there is someone lurking in the distance who will want to tear what we do apart.   For example, in the United States, there is a constitution that provides certain guarantees for the citizens of the nation. The people of the nation have taken these rights for granted and have been inattentive to those who hate the freedoms we possess. Many of these enemies are right within our borders, and they have crept into all levels of government, even to the presidency.   While the people of the nation slept through times of prosperity and abundance, the enemy has been planting seeds of discord, immorality, and un-American ideals throughout our school systems. Now, instead of a good crop of sound-minded, freedom-loving Americans, we are faced with entire populations of people who actively hate the prosperity they participate in.   They hate the rights granted by the Constitution because these rights take away the opportunity for societal control that they desire, and which has been instilled in them by the enemies of freedom.   This happens in churches as well. It is so prevalent that there are ministries dedicated to getting people out of churches that steal away the freedoms found in the Bible in order to control their followers. For example, Ministry Watch published an article entitled, Ministry Helps Christians Escape ‘High-Control' Churches.   High control over churchgoers is one of the surest ways to keep followers giving lots of money and effort to a church. When a church teaches people that one's salvation must continue to be earned after it has been received, the people find themselves in a state of bondage never taught in Scripture.   However, it is the most common of all teachings. It permeates Roman Catholic doctrine. It is awash in Adventism, it overflows in Holiness churches, etc. Even in churches where grace is taught, there are often subtle undertones of implied necessity to do things, such as tithing.   Why are people bound in such situations? In America, it is because the people put too much trust in their leaders and do not take the time to understand the source of their freedoms, meaning knowing what the Constitution says and what the founders wrote about its precepts.   In the church, people likewise put too much trust in spiritual authorities. Instead of reading the Bible and understanding its precepts, they allow those who work in the darkness, meaning their ignorance, to destroy the good crop that they are entitled to.   Be on the lookout by knowing what the source says, be it the US Constitution for political matters or the Bible for your spiritual walk. Don't let the wicked people of the world deprive you of your rightful heritage!   Lord God, we have a religion that is founded on the greatest work of all, that of Jesus Christ. It is a religion of faith in what He has done. May we not squander our right to this by listening to others who would rob us of this precious freedom in one of so many ways. Help us to know and rightly apply the word to our walk before You! Amen.  

Delighted to share this chat with Maryam Mehrtash, an entertainment executive specializing in global marketing and brand partnerships. Her journey embodies the American dream - from fleeing Iran as a refugee at age two to becoming a key player behind one of the most successful streaming platform launches in recent history. Maryam helped traditional media companies pivot from linear to digital during the early days when digital was still treated as a "stepchild." She was part of the team at CBS Interactive that had the first-mover advantage in streaming with CBS All Access, then led the go-to-market strategy for the rebrand to Paramount Plus - all while pregnant and during one of the most pivotal moments in our industry's history. She brings a unique perspective on everything from the economics of peak TV to what producers should know about brand integration in storytelling. She's also a part of the vibrant Iranian diaspora in Hollywood and is on the board of Waterwell, a non-profit co-founded by Award-winning actor Arian Moayed. Having lived through the streaming wars from the inside, Maryam offers a front-row perspective that's invaluable for understanding where our industry has been and where it's headed. Tune in as we explore her journey and new role leading marketing partnerships at Disney Marvel,  the complex world of brand partnerships, her Substack "This Is Not a Memo", and learn how her family's legacy drives her to greatness. Enjoy xx CG   AOP SUBSTACK

Frank is joined by Phil to break down Peacock's Twisted Metal, from its surprisingly heartfelt character work to the tournament arc and deep cuts that longtime players will recognize. We talk John Doe's search for identity, the show's “happy sociopath” version of Sweet Tooth, how Season 2 levels up the stunts and car combat, and why adding new lore can actually respect the games. If you skipped this one because “cars with guns,” we make the case for why it's worth your time. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Introductions and why Twisted Metal was the pick for this episode. 00:36 What the show adapts from the games and where it departs, especially with John Doe. 02:11 The core premise: post apocalyptic courier job, a shot at life behind the walls, and the road to San Francisco. 03:29 Game lore 101: Calypso, wishes with a twist, and character specific endings. 07:00 Sweet Tooth as chaos engine, why the Joker style wildcard works on TV. 09:05 Samoa Joe in the suit, Will Arnett on the mic, and why the voice swap lands. 10:58 Axel and other fan favorites enter, with connected backstories that actually pay off. 13:42 Game venues reimagined with in world logic, HUDs and objectives that make sense. 18:48 Car combat talk: practical vs CG, why Season 2's action feels better. 21:07 “Silly” weapons that get smart uses and Chekhov's missile moments. 23:03 Budget glow up from Season 1 to Season 2 and early success on Peacock. 24:04 John and Quiet's chemistry, then the Season 2 relationship reset. 28:05 The sister storyline, tough choices, and consequences after the wish. 30:40 Minion reworked, identity twists, and a setup that begs for Season 3. 33:40 Adaptation philosophy: build new stories that feel like the game. 41:31 What other game adaptations can learn from Twisted Metal. 45:06 Fun facts: ratings, production notes, and stunt work. Key Takeaways Twisted Metal balances weekly mayhem with character arcs, making the world feel lived in instead of gimmicky. Sweet Tooth is written as a charmingly off kilter sociopath, and the Samoa Joe and Will Arnett combo sells the menace and the laughs. Season 2 embraces the tournament and deepens game lore while explaining gamey elements inside the story. Practical stunts plus targeted CG keep the car combat crunchy and readable. Smart departures from canon create stronger relationships without losing the game's tone. Quotes “It's a show about a character trying to find his worth in a post apocalyptic world.” “Sweet Tooth is a happy sociopath. It's off putting and I love him for it.” “They nailed the cross between practical and CG. The car combat was better than I expected.” “Give me new stories that live in the game's world, not a beat for beat retelling.” Call to Action If you enjoyed this breakdown, follow and rate the show. Drop a review on Apple Podcasts, share the episode with a friend who loved the games, and tag us with #ChallengeAcceptedPod so we can shout you out next week. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com is our home base and the source of all news discussed on our shows Watch Twisted Metal on Peacock Follow Us Geek Freaks: Facebook, Threads, Twitter, Instagram Challenge Accepted: Instagram, TikTok, Twitter Listener Questions What did the show get right compared to your favorite Twisted Metal entries? Send your thoughts and questions for the next episode, and we will feature a few on air. Apple Podcasts Tags Geek Freaks, Challenge Accepted, Twisted Metal, Peacock, TV review, video game adaptations, Anthony Mackie, Sweet Tooth, car combat, post apocalyptic TV

Tuesday, 30 September 2025   Another parable He put forth to them, saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; Matthew 13:24   Another parable He near-set them, saying, “It is likened, the kingdom of the heavens, to a man having sown good seed in his field” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus finished the explanation of the parable of the Sower. Now, He immediately moves on. Matthew records, “Another parable He near-set them.”   A new word is seen, paratithémi. It signifies to place alongside, before, near, etc. It is used at times when referring to placing food before someone. In Luke 23:46, it is the word Jesus uses to commit His Spirit to His Father. Jesus is setting near, or presenting, this new parable. In presenting it, He was “saying, ‘It is likened, the kingdom of the heavens.”   The verb is aorist. He doesn't say, “It is like,” or “It will be like.” Rather, it is a state that already exists. In God's mind, all of history is laid about before Him. Therefore, the Bible can speak about what lies ahead in various ways.   The past can be called also into the present, such as in Matthew 22:32. Therefore, regardless of when the events of the kingdom Jesus is referring to occur, the truth exists already in God's mind. Jesus is likening this state through a parable. His comparison is “to a man having sown good seed in his field.”   The meaning of “good” is not the same seed, some spoiled and some good. Rather, it is a type of seed that is good. For example, sowing wheat is sowing good seed. A farmer wouldn't take thorn seeds and plant them. That would be bad seed.   This farmer has seed that is for a good purpose.   Life application: It is good to study the meaning of words in the Bible. The new word in this verse is variously translated as commend, commit, entrust, give evidence, present, propose, propound, put forth, relate, serve, set before, tell, etc.   The word itself stresses the nearness of the setting. It can be hard to match a comparable English word to all of the instances where it is used. In other words, Jesus sets this parable before the people. Food is set before people at a table. Jesus sets His Spirit before God. One word may not convey each meaning as we might understand.   The literal “near-set” may also not be understandable, but it is a very close translation. As you read the Bible more and begin to study it in detail, doing these word studies will help you to see where a translation that you thought conveyed meaning may not be what is intended.   Saying “told” is true, but it fails to give the more exacting nature of the word. There are other words where saying “told” is fine, but here it lacks the intended nuance. So be sure to check things out if you are at all in doubt. Your time interacting with the word will only be as rewarding as the amount of study and effort you put into it.   Having said that, there is nothing wrong with also picking up a paraphrase and enjoying it simply for the general information being conveyed. Whatever circumstance you find yourself in at the time, just be sure to have the Bible (in some form) with you. It is your personal window into understanding the mind of God. Be sure to read your Bible!!   Lord God, Your word is a treasure and a blessing to our souls. Thank You for how we can come to know You and Your intent for us in such a precious and personal manner. Praise to You for Your word that tells us of Your love for us as expressed in Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Blake & CG talk MLB playoffs & who they think will win the World Series. Sept 29th 2025 --- Please Like, Comment and Follow 'The Ray Appleton Show' on all platforms: --- 'The Ray Appleton Show’ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. --- 'The Ray Appleton Show’ Weekdays 11 AM -2 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 KMJ | Website | Facebook | Podcast | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday, 29 September 2025   But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.” Matthew 13:23   “And the ‘upon the good earth having been sown,' this, it is ‘the word hearing and comprehending' who surely he fruit-bears and it yields – some indeed hundred, and some sixty, and some thirty” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus explained the state of the one who is like a seed cast into a thorny spot. He next continues the explanation of the parable, saying, “And the ‘upon the good earth having been sown.'”   This is the person first described in verse 8, which said, “And others, it fell upon the good earth, and it gave fruit. Some, indeed, hundred, and some sixty, and some thirty.” This is the aim of all gardeners (or Bible teachers in this case): to find good soil and plant there. This is because the anticipated result, which is that “this, it is ‘the word hearing and comprehending.'”   A new word, suniémi, to comprehend, is seen here. The word comes from sun, with or beside, and hiemi, to send. Thus, it signifies “to put together.” When someone puts things together in his mind, he then comprehends the information that has been received.   Interestingly, the word used to describe the process in Mark is paradechomai, to receive (as in accepting), and in Luke it is katechó, to hold down (as in retaining or keeping in the memory). Thus, the explanation, and therefore, the meaning, by default, must be interpreted differently in each gospel –   Comprehend Receive Retain   As for the person who comprehends the word, Jesus says he is one “who surely he fruit-bears.”   While the others may be saved, depending on the circumstances as given in Matthew, they never bore fruit. In the case of Israel, Jesus scolded the nation for not bearing fruit, telling them that their vineyard would be taken from them and the owner would “lease his vineyard to other vinedressers who will render to him the fruits in their seasons” Matthew 21:41.   However, Jesus has been speaking of individuals in Matthew. Therefore, the analogy to be derived is certainly that of individuals in response to hearing the word. When someone is like a seed in good soil, he bears fruit, “and it yields – some indeed hundred, and some sixty, and some thirty.”   A couple of new words are seen here. The first is dé, indeed. It is a particle of emphasis or explicitness. The second is karpophoreó, to be fertile and thus, to bear. The seed is the same. Despite this, different harvests result. The difference is not in the word. Therefore, the circumstances in which the seeds find themselves must be what causes the change.   Seed in one part of the field may get more fertilizer, water, loaminess of soil, and etc. This can be equated to different people receiving the word with different abilities, availabilities, amounts of determination, etc. Those things, along with the directive hand of God, will be realized in different increases –   “Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? 6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. 8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor.” 1 Corinthians 3:5-8   Life application: The word has been given, the gospel is available, and the various soils (or lack thereof) are out there. Not only can you be more productive by improving your own soil, you can be productive by sharing the word with others and then prompting them to receive the word gladly and in a manner that will bear fruit.   This life is our one chance to prepare for the eternal state that we will find ourselves in. How willing are you to forego the present things that can choke out your productivity, deprive you of moisture, or steal the word away from you entirely?   Eyes on Jesus! Open your ears and allow the word to enter! Think about what you hear! Receive what is proper and reject that which will not benefit. Determine now to be the best fruit-bearer that you can be. This is the sweet spot in your walk with God.   Glorious God, how great You are to allow us to share in Your goodness and to allow us to decide what our walk with You will be like. You offer heaven, and You do so in any measure we choose to receive it. Help us to have prudence in our walk before You, bearing fruit for Your eternal kingdom. Amen.  

Sunday, 28 September 2025   Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. Matthew 13:22   “And the ‘into the thorns having been sown' this is the ‘the word hearing,' but the care of this age, and the delusion of wealth, it strangles the word, and it becomes unfruitful” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus explained the state of the one who is like a seed cast on stony places. He next continues the explanation of the parable, saying, “And the ‘into the thorns having been sown.'”   This is the person first described in verse 7, which said, “And others, it fell upon the thorns, and they ascended, the thorns, and they choked them.” Of the person represented by this seed, Jesus says, “this is the ‘the word hearing,' but the care of this age, and the delusion of wealth, it strangles the word.”   Three new words are seen. The first is merimna, solicitude or care. It is derived from merizó, to divide. As such, it is a person whose anxieties divide and fracture his attention, actions, etc. Such a person is distracted from the main point or purpose he is trying to achieve.   The next word is apaté, delusion, a state of deceit, etc. It is the state of having a false impression about something. Because of these things, the third new word, sumpnigó, is the result. It signifies to completely strangle. Literally, it means to drown, but it can also figuratively be used when describing a throng, such as when crowds pressed in on Jesus, choking His movement, in Luke 8:42.   With these things working against the person, Jesus next says of his state concerning the word in his life, “and it becomes unfruitful.”   Another new word is found in this clause, akarpos, without fruit. It is derived from the negative particle a and the word karpos, fruit. Because of the things that tangle this person's life up, he is unable to bear fruit. Instead, there is a sense of survival mode only.   As noted in earlier commentaries, there is a difference between similar peoples' situations and the dispensation in which they live. A person under law may be viewed differently from a person under grace when he is like the person described here. However, even people under the law were only saved by God's grace.   The difference is that those under law were required to adhere to the law. This was the standard for their society. Their hope in God's promises coming in the Messiah is actually what brought them salvation, even if they were expected to live out the law. With the law fulfilled, it is no longer a factor in our relationship with God. Rather, applying the law to our lives actually sets us at enmity with God's grace.   Understanding that first, the explanation of this person's situation may be viewed differently based on the dispensation in which he lives. But if we apply the parable to ourselves, we can make some deductions about this state.   First, the word is heard, received, and it germinates into roots. A person is saved by belief. Therefore, the person would be considered saved. The distractions described by Jesus obviously hinder the person's growth and ability to bear fruit, but who, since being saved, has not had distractions?   This is a thorny world, filled with trials, temptations, distractions, etc. How we respond to them after being saved will not affect our salvation. Rather, they will affect our rewards at the judgment seat of Christ. If you are living in a thorn patch, remove the thorns or remove yourself from them and press on in Jesus' goodness.   Life application: Of this type of person, Barnes says –   “See the notes at 1 Timothy 6:7-11. How many, O how many, thus foolishly drown themselves in destruction and perdition! How many more might reach heaven, if it were not for this deep-seated love of that which fills the mind with care, deceives the soul, and finally leaves it naked, and guilty, and lost!”   In the verses cited by Barnes, Paul was writing to Timothy about those in the church, meaning saved believers. Paul never questions their salvation, but warns against the trap of loving money, which causes people to stray from the truth.   If those people could lose their salvation because they diverted from the truth, it means that their salvation was not of grace through faith when they first believed. It means that it was based on their continued performance, it was conditional, and it was not by grace through faith.   To equate a saved person who strays from the truth to a person that is finally left “naked, and guilty, and lost” is to admit that salvation is not by grace through faith in Christ's completed work. This is a heretical Arminian view that maligns the all-sufficient atonement found in Jesus' shed blood.   Barnes does not normally espouse such views, but at times, his commentary strays into this type of thinking. The fact is that every person ever saved by Jesus has had time in his own thorn patch, unless maybe he was saved and keeled over of a heart attack a minute later.   If your life is hemmed in with distractions, temptations, and things that choke out your faith, it is up to you to start cutting out the thorns that are affecting you. Life is not easy, but Jesus can be your proverbial clippers if you just put Him back into your main focus. Read the word, fix your eyes on Jesus, and get clipping those thorns!   Lord God, life is so filled with distractions and temptations. Our bodies and brains are biological, chemical, and electrical units that are affected by everything we come in contact with. You know this because You created us. Help us to keep control of who we are so that we can quash the externals and internals that continuously work against us. May Your Spirit direct us as we pursue You. Amen.

「酢の物、アリかも」じゃねーよ！！ぼんやり肯定するくらいなら、一生嫌いでい続けろ！そっちのほうがピュアで熱くておもしれーから！！そして、ゆnovationさん、髙倉さんとデイキャンプに行きました＠飯能。かなりよかったです。でもメリハリは大事。好きも嫌いも、お便り募集のタイミングも、キャンプの炭火も、何もかもメリハリが命！(編集：トロニー)取るに足りないものごとを拾い上げて面白がるポッドキャスト、中トロラジオです!!登場人物・中西→名古屋、男子校、演劇サークル出身。・トロニー→内モンゴル、富山、音楽系（根暗）サークル出身。名字がない。ふたりとも建築学科から非建築業界に就職した男性、30歳です。おたより、感想ツイートなどなどお待ちしています！おたよりはこちらから↓https://forms.gle/2dR4MwLpdDDoJgLd6中トロラジオのdiscordサーバーはこちら↓https://discord.gg/8bHBj5wd2Fーーーーー◎最高のオープニングゆnovation『pop out!』(yunovation.net)各種配信サービスでいつでも聞けます！https://linkco.re/SSFZfhxF◎珠玉のアートワークプランニング : 古林萌実(@__moem3in)デザイン：佐藤祐太郎(@yutarooo811)CG：嶋江大悟

Saturday, 27 September 2025   yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles. Matthew 13:21   “And he has no root in himself, but he is temporary. And having come pressure or persecution through the word, immediately he stumbles” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus began to explain the seed cast on rocky places. He continues that with the words, “And he has no root in himself.”   The word was received with joy. However, for one of an almost infinite number of reasons, the person has no root in and of himself. It was not possible because of the circumstances in which he received the message. Like a seed on rocky soil, there is no way to establish a deep and abiding foundation, a root, to sustain himself. Because of this, Jesus continues, saying, “but he is temporary.”   It is a new word, proskairos. It is derived from two words. The first is pros, a word indicating to or toward and thus about, near, against, etc. The context will determine what the intent is. The second word is kairos, an occasion, opportunity, season, etc. It is often translated as “time.” The two words together give the sense of “for the occasion or time only.”   Jesus does not make a charge concerning the character of the individual, as most commentators claim. Rather, He is basing His message on the circumstances in which He exists, meaning as a seed on rocky soil. Because there is no root, He next says, “And having come pressure or persecution through the word.”   There are two new words, thlipsis is the first. It speaks of pressure. Vincent's explains that it is derived from tribulum, the threshing-roller of the Romans. However, it is not referring to the process of separating the corn from the husk, but to the pressure that causes it. As such, he notes as an example “the provision of the old English law, by which those who wilfully refused to plead had heavy weights placed on their breasts, and so were pressed and crushed to death.”   The next new word is diógmos, persecution. It comes from a word signifying to follow after. One can think of a person being hounded. Wherever he goes and whatever he does, he is unable to get free from his pursuers. As such, when pressure or persecution comes to this fellow because of the word he received, he has no roots to endure, and therefore, “immediately he stumbles.”   Without a suitable root to feed him and ensure he can endure the heat of the day, like a sprout that withers, he is offended and falls away.   As noted, Jesus does not speak of the character of the person, but the circumstances of his root. Therefore, a person with a strong character can be just as likely to fail as someone with a lesser character. The root brings in water and nutrients. This is what the word is for. The point is, no matter what, the seed cannot survive without a proper foundation.   This is why weak people who read, know, and apply the word to their lives will last, even when a staunch and hearty person who heard the word and loved its message may fall away. This is exactly the reason why so many commentaries misapply the lesson to be learned.   Be sure to continue reading below. The words will provide additional and invaluable insights into this truth for your walk with the Lord.   Life application: A few examples of incorrect analysis of this verse are cited below. The first is from Cambridge. They say, “Jesus forecasts the persecution of Christians, and the time when ‘the love of many shall wax cold,' ch. Matthew 24:12.”   This is wrong on the surface. Matthew 24 is not speaking of church-age Christian persecution. Jesus is speaking to the Jews about matters that apply to them as a nation. It is true there will be those of Israel who hear the message and believe during the tribulation, but this is the reference. Maintaining proper context is important in understanding Matthew 24.   Albert Barnes says, “Yet they have no root in themselves. They are not true Christians. Their hearts are not changed. They have not seen their guilt and danger, and the true excellency of Christ. They are not ‘really' attached to the gospel; and when they are tried and persecution comes, they fall - as the rootless grain withers before the scorching rays of the noonday sun.”   Barnes has made the error noted above. Jesus is not speaking of the character of a person, though this can be a part of such a matter. He is speaking of the circumstances in which the person received the message. The seed was placed in the wrong spot for it to mature properly.   Whether Jesus is speaking of Israel and their reception of the message or those of the church, the words carry the same truth. The difference is that Israel was under law. Law demands perfect obedience. Without Jesus, that is impossible.   Those in the church are under grace. Grace does not demand performance, but belief. What does Jesus say about this person? He says, “...this, he is, the ‘the word hearing and immediately with joy receiving it.'” What does the gospel say? Jesus gives the basis for it in John 3:16: belief. Paul explains it in detail in his epistles, noting it is based on belief. This person has believed. He received the message with joy. And what is the result of that belief when under grace? Paul says –   “In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.” Ephesians 1:13, 14   Albert Barnes, et al, failed to consider that the difference is Jesus in how a person is treated. A person can live and die under law, or he can live and die under grace. This is the initial circumstance that must be defined.   However, that circumstance is then further defined by the circumstance of place, meaning where the seed grows. If a person is saved, he is saved (reread Ephesians 1:13, 14 again!). However, if the person who is saved has no church, no copy of the Bible, and no further understanding of his obligations because no one told him, he will have no root to carry him through the pressures and tribulations that arise.   This is why it is so immensely important to feed oneself with the word. In today's world, we can shape the circumstances of our faith by actively feeding ourselves. Passively, the family we are born into may have provided sound soil. The activities at school may provide that as well. Church attendance may (depending on the church) do so also.   Reading the word, meditating on it, and applying it to one's life is the main source of such fertile soil. Pay heed to what feeds you, how you are fed, and the time you spend feeding yourself. Circumstance! Take advantage of the circumstances that you find yourself in. May you grow healthy and in an abundant manner so that you will be able to endure the difficulties of life when you face them.   Heavenly Father, thank You that when we believe the gospel, our salvation is realized. Thank You for the grace of God found in Jesus Christ our Lord. Now, help us to be responsible and pursue that good gift all the days of our lives. Amen and amen.

Антон Гридчин про видение современного пайплайна в CG by CG ПОДКАСТ №1

Friday, 26 September 2025   But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; Matthew 13:20   “And the ‘having been sown upon the rocky places,' this, he is, the ‘the word hearing and immediately with joy receiving it'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus described the seed that was sown near the path. He next says, “And the ‘having been sown upon the rocky places.'” This type was mentioned in verse 5. What happens to a seed when it is cast on a rocky area? For those who farm, the answer is obvious.    The seed will sprout because there is usually moisture on rocks in the early hours. As such, there is life now coming from the seed. However, this will only last for a while. Unless it is a gray and moist day, the sprout will quickly dry up and die when the heat of the sun blazes on it. Of this seed, Jesus next says, “this, he is, the ‘the word hearing and immediately with joy receiving it.'”    Whether Jesus is referring to people in general, those of Israel who are following Him at the time, or in the context of the Christian church as a mystery being revealed concerning what lies ahead, His words carry a truth that can be seen in any field, vocation, or religious context.   Something is seen, it is appealing, and it is quickly accepted as a goal and received as such.   Life application: Without evaluating the conclusion found in the next verse concerning this sort of person, we can look at our own lives and find examples of this type of person in a given situation.   Suppose you go to the beach with your friends and you see people surfing. It's the coolest thing you've ever seen, and so you quickly rush out to buy a surfboard. You saw what was exciting, a seed of interest germinated in you because of what you saw, and the idea of yourself becoming a surfer starts growing in you.   What will it take to make that goal come about? Think about the innumerable things that will affect your new, excited decision. You get to the surf shop and discover how expensive a new board is. You will have to settle for an old, beat-up one.   You find out that the waves only come at certain times and under certain conditions, so you have to be ready to give up other things when the waves are breaking.   Surfing means looking like an otter floating on the surface to sharks...   The best waves are in the winter, and even with a wetsuit (which is also expensive), you don't like getting into the cold water.   In finding this and so much more out, you have to decide concerning the pursuit of your new and exciting avenue of life's adventures. As noted above, this type of thing can also apply to a vocation or a religious experience. Making choices about major goals in life requires thought, commitment, and the expenditure of time and energy.   What will be the result of your decision if your roots are not sunk deeply into the ground? This is what Jesus is explaining to the people of Israel as they prepare to follow the One they have called their Messiah.   Heavenly Father, when people hear about what Jesus has done, there is often a strong and amazingly excited pursuit of Him at first. Will that continue? What is it that will keep them strong in this new direction? Help us to evaluate ourselves as well as those to whom we tell the gospel to. May we be prepared to set our goals and stick to them as we follow Him all our days. Amen.  

Thursday, 25 September 2025   When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside. Matthew 13:19   “Everyone hearing the word of the kingdom and not comprehending, the evil, he comes, and he seizes the ‘having been sown in his heart.' This, he is, the ‘having been sown near the path'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus prepared His disciples for hearing the explanation of the parable. He now begins that explanation, saying, “Everyone hearing the word of the kingdom and not comprehending.”   Jesus has already spoken of such people when He cited the words of Isaiah. There are people who hear, but in hearing, they do not comprehend. One can go to a lecture on nuclear physics, hear the message of the speaker, understand the individual words, but not comprehend the meaning of what is being said.   Likewise, a person can read the Bible (hearing in his mind) and not comprehend what is being said. A common reason for this might be reading a passage, for example, Joshua 10, knowing what it says, but not comprehending why it is even in the Bible. This might be because the person has not read the Bible and, thus, has no context to understand what is being conveyed in the overall message.   Such examples help us grasp why someone can hear and not comprehend. In such an occurrence, Jesus says, “the evil, he comes.”   This would be referring to the devil. The adjective prefixed by the article marks the evil off as an entity. It isn't just that evil comes. Rather, an entity that is evil comes. As such, translations normally insert the word one, resulting in “the evil one.” This evil one comes, “and he seizes the ‘having been sown in his heart.'”   The perfect participle indicates that the word had been received at some point, and it was a completed action that continues at the time being referred to. It is not that the word was not received, but that it was received, and then it is seized from him.   Therefore, this would be like the person Peter refers to –   “For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.” 2 Peter 1:9   The person received the message, but he failed to diligently do the things Peter refers to in 2 Peter 1:2-8. Because of this, Jesus says, “This, he is, the ‘having been sown near the path.'”   There was a seed sown, but it was snatched away, never becoming productive.   It should be noted that the words of this parable are not identical to those of Luke's account in Matthew 8. There, Jesus says of this seed, “...then, he comes, the devil, and he lifts the word from the heart of them, that not having believed, they should be saved” (Luke 8:12).   Due to the different use of the verbs, and the plural “they” instead of the singular “he,” it means Jesus probably said this parable on different occasions and geared it towards the audience at that time.   Both accounts say the disciples asked Him for an explanation. There is no problem with this, it could mean other disciples than those who asked the other time in Matthew. Unlike Luke, a loss of salvation does not appear to be the intent in His explanation here in Matthew.   Life application: Israel was given the word, but for the most part, they never heeded it. As such, it was stolen away from them, generation after generation. There was a failure on their part to do what they were instructed, to be the people they were called to be, and to honor God as He determined.   Despite this, and despite rejecting Jesus when He came, Israel remains. This shows the covenant faithfulness that God has maintained toward them. Their disobedience does not negate His faithfulness.   If we can remind ourselves of this truth, we would be much better off in our minds concerning our own walk with Him, knowing that despite our failings, He remains faithful and will uphold His commitment to carry us through to the completion of our salvation.   If we would remind ourselves of this truth, we would also be better off in our minds concerning others' walk with Him as well. It is so easy to point at other believers, knowing they at one time called on Jesus, and then assuming that God has taken away their salvation.   This is a common theme in churches that hold to the Arminian traditions. It is also nonsense. God will remain faithful, even to those who walk away from the faith. Peter does not question the salvation of those he refers to in the verse above. In fact, his words clearly indicate a state of salvation (he was cleansed).   Think about what the Bible says concerning God from His perspective, not ours. We fail others, we take back our gifts, we break our commitments, etc. God does none of these. His spoken word is an eternal decree, and Jesus' blood is sufficient to cover all our sins.   Thank God for His faithfulness.   Lord God, may we think clearly and carefully consider the things Your word teaches us concerning You. In our minds, we will often project onto You what we experience. A bad father must equal a bad heavenly Father. But no! You are good, You do not change, and Your intent for us because of Jesus means we are secure. Thank You for Your faithfulness, O God. Amen.  

Wednesday, 24 September 2025   “Therefore hear the parable of the sower: Matthew 13:18   “You, therefore, you hear the parable, the ‘having sown'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus spoke of the prophets and righteous men of the past who desired to see and hear what the disciples saw. They, however, did not see or hear those things. Only at the time determined by God would the Christ come to fulfill the law and usher in a new dispensation. Based on His words concerning this, He next says, “You, therefore, you hear the parable, the ‘having sown.'”   The things those people desired to see and hear were to be revealed to the disciples. This included the meaning of the parable He had spoken to them concerning the sower with his seeds.   This parable is normally called the parable of the sower. The Greek reads tou speirantos, “the ‘having sown,'” meaning the one having sown. By extension, it refers to the sower through the use of the article affixed to the verb.   His addressees are the disciples, placing them in the emphatic position, “You, therefore, you...” In other words, His words connect first to verse 16, and then contrast with verse 17. This can be seen when the three thoughts are presented in order –   * And you, blessed the eyes, because they see, and the ears, because it hears.   * Amen! For I say to you that many prophets and righteous, they passioned to see what byou see, and not they saw, and to hear what you hear, and not they heard.   * You, therefore, you hear the parable, the ‘having sown.'   Jesus is conveying to them the greatness of the place and time in which they are and the position which they have been entrusted. This is contrasted first with those of Israel, who heard the parable but were not given its explanation.   However, secondly, the immediate contrast is to those great men of the past, showing the disciples that they have a privilege that goes beyond the hopes and dreams of generations of people whose desire it was to see and participate in the coming of the Messiah. It is reflective of the words of Peter –   “Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you, 11 searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. 12 To them it was revealed that, not to themselves, but to us they were ministering the things which now have been reported to you through those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things which angels desire to look into.” 1 Peter 1:10-12   Life application: The church has a similar hope to that of the saints of old who anticipated the coming of the Messiah. They longed to see His coming and to draw near to Him to see and hear His words.   In the church, we have been promised that Jesus will return. At that time, those who are waiting for Him will have the realization of their hope. Unlike the saints of old, however, who came and died before the coming of the Messiah, the Lord has promised to bring with Him all of those who have received Him, even since the first believers.   We will be drawn near to Him, see Him with our own eyes, and hear Him with our own ears. Not a single saint from this dispensation will be left behind. Because of this, Paul gives us words of absolute comfort and continued hope, even for those who die before His coming –   “But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. 15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18   It is good to be reminded of this from time to time. God's promises will be realized. If you are facing the loss of a loved one, the separation is painful. However, if he or she was saved through faith in Jesus, this is a temporary separation. God has not abandoned you, and He will not forget them on that great Day.   Get ready, Jesus is coming again. Maybe today.   Lord God, thank You for the sure hope we possess because of what Jesus has done. How grateful we are to You that we don't need to fear death, nor do we lose hope when we experience it in the loss of those we love. Rather, we have a sure and enduring hope of being gathered together forever when Jesus returns for His church. Amen.

Madelaine Petsch has a penchant for divisive female characters.You may know her best as from her role as Cheryl Blossom in the CW's hit series Riverdale," which ran for 7 seasons. She's recently been evolving into one of Hollywood's most promising young producers. She's currently starring in and producing the next installment of "The Strangers" horror trilogy for Lionsgate, which hits theaters this Friday, September 26th. You can also catch her in the Amazon rom-com "Maintenance Required" on October 8th. In one film she's being chased by masked strangers; in the other, she's running from love. It was exciting to catch Madelaine in these early days of her shift into producing, especially when so many are skeptical of that leap. She's refreshingly candid about the brutal realities of fame—death threats, having her address posted online, and the strategic decision to delete her entire YouTube channel after millions of views. We explore how her South African immigrant parents shaped her work ethic, why she's drawn to complex female characters, and the politics of producer credits. And yes, before you ask—she can change your brake pads. xx CG

Tuesday, 23 September 2025   for assuredly, I say to you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it. Matthew 13:17   “Amen! For I say to you that many prophets and righteous, they passioned to see what you see, and not they saw, and to hear what you hear, and not they heard” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus told His disciples that their eyes and ears were blessed. He now provides an explanation of that, saying, “Amben! For I say to you that many prophets and righteous.”   The promise of a Redeemer was spoken by the Lord in Genesis 3. Until the record was written down by Moses, it would have been an oral tradition. It is certain, based on the surrounding text, that Eve thought she would be delivered by the birth of Cain. However, that didn't pan out.   From there, a list of “the sons of the God” is recorded in Genesis 5, and the story of the division between these sons, meaning those who believed and those who didn't, is given in minimal detail in Genesis 6. Noah was deemed a righteous man and was spared from the destruction of the world by the flood.   He and his family repopulated the earth, still passing on this story of a coming Redeemer. Eventually, proper worship of God began to fade. This is implied in Job 1 & 2 where the “sons of the God” are noted as gathering for worship. If there are sons of “the God,” there are those who are not. The world was again losing its memory of the promised One.   Such people, like Job, would have been deemed righteous (Job 1:1). However, an appropriate mode of worship was needed to keep the memory of the Redeemer's coming alive and to ensure that worshiping God as He deemed proper necessitated the introduction of the law.   Throughout these ages, some of those whom Jesus refers to are recorded, fitting a pattern that would include all who were like them. Hebrews 11 gives a summary of such people. The thing that identifies them as such is not, however, observance of and adherence to the law. Rather, it is... faith. Time and again in Hebrews 11, the words “by faith” are used to describe these people.   Each of them had a grounded hope in the coming of the Messiah. Hebrews 11 is summed up with the words –   “And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise, 40 God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.” Hebrews 11:39, 40   In accord with that, Jesus says, “they passioned to see what you see, and not they saw, and to hear what you hear, and not they heard.”   These people, by faith, waited and hoped. They looked ahead to what God promised, not around at what man has tainted. Their eyes were fixed unashamedly on the fulfillment of the promise, not considering the taunts and attacks of those who live for this world.   Their desire and passion were to see the Messiah and to hear His instruction concerning matters that could never be contemplated or deduced without God's special revelation. With the coming of Jesus, these things were spoken and explained.   Life application: Jesus told the people –   “Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” Matthew 11:11   Jesus has come. There is no longer a need to wait for what God's promised Messiah would do or say. We now have an accurate and detailed record of what His disciples heard and saw.   We can, by faith, be deemed righteous. We look back to the incarnation, the life lived, the cross, and the resurrection, and we believe. In accepting God's word concerning the all-sufficient work of Jesus Christ, we are deemed righteous.   From there, we can, by faith, look ahead to the promises of total restoration with God, not just as a spiritual truth (which we now possess), but as a tangible, eternal reality. For those who have been saved by faith, we have been given a guarantee that what we hope for will be realized –   “In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.” Ephesians 1:13, 14   How strong is your faith that the words of Scripture are true, accurate, and reliable? How deeply do you believe that Jesus is the fulfillment of that word? Are you sure in your heart of hearts that what the Bible tells us lies ahead is really coming? What is it that you long for most in this world? There is a reward ahead for those who live by faith –   “Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:8   Hooray for Jesus!   Lord God, thank You for the hope we possess in You, in Your word, and in what it says about Jesus' coming and His return for us someday. Thank You for the guarantee You have given us, securing us as Yours until that day. Thank You, O God, for Your everlasting faithfulness. Amen.

Is Hollywood revisionism ruining films or keeping them alive? We dig into directors' do-overs, colour re-grades, CG touch-ups, soundtrack swaps and endless ‘definitive' cuts - from Star Wars to Michael Mann and those Tron Legacy 4K rumours. Plus a preview of Tron: Ares and a stack of fresh 4K recommendations.

Monday, 22 September 2025   But blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear; Matthew 13:16   “And you, blessed the eyes, because they see, and the ears, because it hears” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus finished the quote from Isaiah concerning Israel's spiritually deadened state. Now, He contrasts His disciples to the overall nation, saying, “And you, blessed the eyes, because they see.”   These words are in line with what was already said in verse 11 –   “He answered and said to them, ‘Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.'”   They had willingly followed Jesus. Because of this, He would explain His parables and other seemingly cryptic sayings to them without reservation. However, the general crowd would only be given the parable without an explanation.   If they wanted to know what the meaning of His words was, they would need to ask. It is sure that He would not purposefully hide the explanation from someone who wanted to know. This is all the more certain because the gospels were eventually written and disseminated.   Because of this, all it took was seeking. In doing so, they would find what they sought. This step was unnecessary for the disciples who were there with Jesus and were provided the explanations. As seen in a previous commentary, this is stated explicitly in Mark –   “And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.” Mark 4:33, 34   Along with seeing eyes, Jesus also says, “and the ears, because it hears.” Some texts read this in the plural, “they hear,” others in the singular. The point is that the spiritually lethargic state that permeated most of Israel did not permeate all of it. The disciples and those like them who were looking for the truth would find it.   Life application: Having dulled senses is not restricted to Israel, although at this time it is a national condition. Along with them, there are innumerable people in the world who are likewise affected. They feel secure in their religiosity and are uncaring about whether what they believe is actually the truth of God or not.   Unfortunately, this condition permeates much of the church as well. People go to church on Sunday morning, listen to the sermon, go home, and nothing in their lives is changed. The message they hear isn't taken to heart, and the word doesn't penetrate the dull ears.   But this isn't merely limited to congregants. There are churches full of dead pastors. They speak from the pulpit about how love wins, that God accepts people's lifestyle regardless of how perverse they may be, and speak ill of those who want to rectify the immorality in their nations, either through politics or conservative churches.   To them, the Bible is a pick-and-choose tool to obtain verses that will keep people feeling good and coming back. Maybe it isn't even referred to at all. Their concept of Jesus is driven by sexual mores or financial gain, apart from the reality of how God has presented Him in His word.   When you talk to people about Jesus, pay attention to what they say. The truth is, just because they attend church, it does not mean that they are saved. You may need to evangelize them as much as the drug addicts and hookers in your town's shady district.   Don't assume that someone is right with Jesus from their initial words to you. Pay heed, get to know what they believe, and be ready to present Jesus and what He expects, as is outlined in Scripture. And you cannot do this without knowing the word. Please read, know, and contemplate your Bible.   Lord God, help us to be discerning about those around us. May we not assume that just because someone says he is a Christian that he is saved. Rather, may we be attentive and carefully present the gospel for all. People need Jesus, the true Jesus, whom You have revealed in Your word. May we be willing to tell the world about Him. Amen.

A popular DreamWorks Animation series is coming to the big screen. Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie opens in theaters nationwide this Friday September 26th. Director Ryan Crego shares highlights of making the charming and ambitious live-action/CG feature, which is one of the fall movie season's major family events.

Sunday, 21 September 2025   For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, And their eyes they have closed, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal them.' Matthew 13:15   “For it thickened, the heart of this people And their ears, heavily they heard, And their eyes, they shut, Lest not they should behold – their eyes, And they should hear – their ears, And they should comprehend – the heart, And they should return, And I will heal them” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus began to quote a verse from Isaiah concerning the state of Israel, specifically their inability to understand or perceive the meaning of spiritual truth. Jesus continues that quote, which explains why this is so, beginning with, “For it thickened, the heart of this people.”   Here is a new word, pachunó, to thicken. It is found only here and in Acts 28:27 when Paul cites this same verse. The thickening is that of excess fat. Therefore, it signifies having a dull, insensitive heart.   In Scripture, the heart is the seat of moral preference. It is the spot where the decisions that reveal our true character are made. In the case of Israel, their collective heart had thickened to the point of being insensitive. Their moral preferences had become contrary to the will of the Lord. Next, He says, “And their ears, heavily they heard.”   Here is another new word, the adverb bareós. It signifies heavily. In this case, it is in a figurative sense. This word is also only found here and in Romans 28:27. The meaning is that it is as if something is hanging over their ears, their ears are full of wax, or for some other reason, and the sound entering them is dulled and difficult to understand. Next, it says, “And their eyes, they shut.”   A third new word, again only found here and in Romans 28:27, is seen, the verb kammuó. It is derived from kata, down, and muó, to shut the eyes. Thayer's Lexicon says, “the phrase designates the inflexible pertinacity and obstinacy of the Jews in their opposition to the gospel.”   This is correct. There is a sense of a purposeful shutting of the eyes to block out what God would otherwise reveal to them. These spiritual insensitivities permeated the Jewish society, but this was not the Lord's fault. This can be seen in the next words, which reveal that their state was a self-inflicted wound. Notice how the following three thoughts are stated in the reverse order of the previous three, forming a short chiasm –   “Lest not they should behold – their eyes, And they should hear – their ears, And they should comprehend – the heart.”   The meaning is that if the people were to redirect their moral senses, there would be a change. It isn't that the Lord caused this, but that they willingly closed themselves off from being able to properly discern the incoming information. With that noted, Jesus finishes the quote, saying –   “And they should return, And I will heal them.”   The future tense is purposeful. Each of these points is dependent on the actions of the people. That it is speaking of the nation and not merely individuals within the nation is to be understood from the plural, they, and then the singular, the heart, noted above.   Israel had purposefully closed itself off to God's salvation as seen in the coming of their Messiah. However, there is a day ahead when this will change. At that time, the Lord promises that they should return and He will heal them. This will be according to His design. Until that point, the words speak of a constant state of dullness in their collective eyes, ears, and heart.   Life application: The words of Isaiah, as quoted by Jesus and later Paul, clearly refer to free will in man. In the case of Israel, they are so closely knit as a people that, despite their amazingly diverse political, moral, and religious differences, they are still intimately united as a single body.   In this state, their almost universal rejection of Jesus is understandable. It is the crowd mentality that is strengthened through a close-knit family bond. Until this ubiquitous set of blinders is removed, the nation will continue in this state.   It is God's intent and purpose for Israel to be saved. And more, it is clearly prophesied in His word that this will take place. However, they need to be brought to such a calamitous state that they will finally look beyond themselves and their supposed superiority as a people to realize that they are nothing without Jesus.   Until that day, be careful to evangelize them, pray for them, and have pity on them. Without Jesus, they are a hopeless, rudderless ship in a sea of overwhelming sin. Only Jesus can rescue them from it.   Lord God, we pray for the people of Israel. Your word went to them first, and it was rejected. But You are not through with them. Your covenantal fidelity to fulfill the promises made to them in Your word will be realized. But Your word also tells us of disastrous days ahead for them. So, Lord, we lift them up to You for many to be saved before that day comes. Amen.

Saturday, 20 September 2025   And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says: ‘Hearing you will hear and shall not understand, And seeing you will see and not perceive;  Matthew 13:14   “And it fulfills upon them, Isaiah's prophecy, saying, ‘News you will hear and no, not you might comprehend, And seeing, you will see and no, not you might see'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that He spoke to the people in parables because, in seeing, they do not see, and in hearing, they don't hear or understand. Therefore, Jesus continues, saying, “And it fulfills upon them Isaiah's prophecy.”   A new word, anapléroó, to fully complete, and thus to fulfill, is seen. It is derived from ana, up, and pléroó, to fill up or complete. The prefix intensifies the action. Therefore, the present tense verb completes the action, even though it is as if the work is still in progress. In the Textus Receptus, the word is followed by the preposition ep, upon.   The things the disciples did not understand concerning Jesus' parables were actually prophesied and recorded in their own Scriptures. The source of the prophecy is from the Greek translation of Isaiah 6:9, 10.   Isaiah prophesied words that were applicable to the people of Israel. They were fulfilled at his time, but the people at the time of Jesus continued to have the same spiritually dull senses as those Isaiah addressed. Therefore, his words would find their fulfillment again in the coming of Jesus and His ministry. This is highlighted by the inclusion of the word ep, upon. Isaiah's words were fulfilled upon them.   Jesus preached to the people, and yet, they completely missed the point of what He was telling them. This begins to be seen in His next words, where He was “saying, ‘News you will hear and no, not you might comprehend.'”   The spiritual senses of the people were dull and seemingly incapable of assimilating what He was trying to convey to them. Some parables included words of judgment, others (such as the parable He just gave concerning the seed) included words that indicated many would reject, misunderstand, or have stolen away His teachings.   But they were Israelites! They thought they were ok with God simply because of who they were as people. Therefore, the intended meaning could not be speaking of them! Because of this attitude, the point of what He was conveying seemed to have no discernible application in their lives. Along with the dull ears, Jesus continues with, “and seeing, you will see and no, not you might see.”   The people would see things, and yet, there were spiritual truths being conveyed through what He did that would be completely missed by them. For example, Jesus healed the centurion's servant in Matthew 8. At that time, He exclaimed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!”   The people saw Jesus' willingness to heal a Gentile's servant, they heard His words concerning the faith of the centurion, and yet they failed to process that, by default, they had less faith than a Gentile. The most important point of the entire event passed right through the ears and minds of the people without ever being assimilated and/or understood.   Because of these things, Isaiah's prophecy was fulfilled upon them.   Life application: Most of us have seen or known people who do things that are immoral or illegal, and yet the same people act as if they have done nothing wrong. At the same time, they agree that others doing the very thing they are doing should be punished.   For example, at this time, there are several government officials who are under investigation for illegally transmitting national secrets. It is certain they have done this, and they will hopefully be held accountable for it. And yet, these same people accused the sitting president of having done exactly what they had been doing! He was found innocent. They had been projecting their own evil deeds onto others while ignoring or mentally dismissing their own misconduct.   The old saying, “People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones,” is realized in them. They threw charges at an innocent person, while the whole world can now see that they had been doing the exact same thing they accused him of.   Now think about people in church. You may know someone who is having an affair. And yet, he sits in church, hears the preacher preach against immorality, and even calls out “Amen” as the words are spoken. There is a complete disconnect between the actions of his life and the acknowledgement, that when done by others, it is wrong.   This is the state of Israel, even to this day. The words of Isaiah 6, now being cited by Jesus, are also quoted by Paul as the book of Acts closes out. This tells us that the state was ongoing, even though Jesus said the words of Isaiah were completed upon those He was speaking to. It is as if the words are being completed upon them from moment to moment as history unfolds.   Unfortunately, this attitude will continue until there is almost nothing left of them as a people. Only in Jesus' direct intervention by coming back to stop their enemies will this state finally be ended. Let us evaluate our own lives, looking for areas where we are projecting our own evils upon others while not tending to those evils in our own lives.   Lord God, help each of us to remember Your word, applying it to our lives at all times. It is so easy to spot fault in others, but are we willing to do so in ourselves? Help us to do so and to live lives that are honorable in Your presence. Amen.  

Friday, 19 September 2025   Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. Matthew 13:13   “Through this I speak to them in parables, because seeing, not they see, and hearing, not they hear nor comprehend” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted the truth concerning the mysteries of the kingdom that those who have will be given more, while those who don't will have what they do have taken from them. Understanding this, He next says, “Through this I speak to them in parables.”   The words “through this” have already been seen. It is a way of saying “therefore” or “because of.” There is a reason why Jesus speaks to the people in parables. Israel had squandered its spiritual heritage, and the mysteries of the kingdom would be taken from them because of it.   It is because of their poor stewardship of what they had been granted that it was to be so. Thus, Jesus deprived them of an open explanation of things. The Jews would have to come to Him like anyone else today, by faith. They could not rely on their status as Jews to receive the ongoing revelation of God's working in the coming dispensation. This is explained in His next words, “because seeing, not they see, and hearing, not they hear nor comprehend.”   A new word, suniémi, to put together, is seen here. It is derived from sun, with, and hiemi, to send. In putting things together by joining facts, one can then comprehend what is going on in a given situation. In being given the mysteries in parables, Israel could not see the deeper spiritual meaning, and they could not hear the message that was being conveyed.   Because of this, they could not put two and two together and then conclude what Jesus was talking about. This doesn't mean they were mentally incapable of doing so. Rather, like the disciples, they would have to ask for understanding and an explanation of His words.   But even with that information, biases and presuppositions can stand in the way of accepting the message. This is the state in which Israel exists today. It is not a nation of illiterate people. But it is a nation that cannot comprehend that they are not what God is “doing” at this time. They have never set aside the notion that they are God's people and thus the object of His attention and favor.   However, Paul explains the situation concerning God's favor during this dispensation of grace –   “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Galatians 3:26-29   Jewishness, cultural heritage, past circumstances, and so forth have no bearing on one's position in Christ. The only thing that matters is faith in Him. Without that, there is no connection to God.   Life application: The information found in the New Testament is just as available to the Jewish people as it is to the rest of the world. There are Jews who have decided to pick up the Bible and read the New Testament without any knowledge about what it says. In reading it, they have said, “Hey, this is all written from a Jewish perspective!”   From there, they think about their history and how they fit into it and realize that what they were told concerning the promise of the Messiah has already been fulfilled in the coming of Jesus. The light comes on, the words are illuminated, and they are able to put the facts together to make the decision to place their faith in Him.   Others have been taught that the New Testament is all lies and does not reflect what God is doing. And so they never read it, or they read it with a presuppositional bias against what it says. With this attitude, they are not looking for the truth. Because of this, it is likely they will not accept what it says.   Some may, however, conclude that they were misinformed and that it is the truth. This is no different than people who are believers in Jesus and come to the Bible to learn doctrine. Someone who has never even heard of the rapture may put the facts as Paul presents them together and rightly conclude that it is a real event and that it will happen before the tribulation.   Those who have been told there is no such thing as the rapture may read the same words and believe what they were told rather than what the word says, simply because they have the blinders on. Likewise, they may believe in the rapture, but because they were told that it is mid-trib, they will look for ways to justify that stand, taking things out of context simply to have the matter fit their presuppositions.   When reading the Bible, we need to go where it goes and ensure we take its words in the proper context, not seeking evidence to fit our presuppositions from places where it should not be taken. Let us attempt to look for the proper interpretation of spiritual matters through prayer, open minds not clouded by presuppositions, and with a heart to accept what the word says concerning its truths.   Lord God, may we stay focused on our time in Your word, not finding reasons to skip it from day to day. Rather, may this be one of the things we commit to unfailingly all the days of our lives. It is too precious not to be tended to even above our necessary food. Amen.  

Thursday, 18 September 2025   For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. Matthew 13:12   “For whoever he has, it will be given him, and he will superabound. And whoever not he has, and what he has it will be lifted from him” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus responded to the disciples concerning His speaking in parables. He told them that they were given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. However, to the others, it had not.   To make this point, He next states an understood truth that applies in many worldly contexts. It can apply to wealth, health, business acumen, etc. As such, it is something understandable and verifiable. He begins with, “For whoever he has, it will be given him.”   Suppose someone has good health. That person will generally use his health wisely, increasing it and staying healthy. A person who has business smarts will generally make more good business decisions. It doesn't even really matter what type of business. He may have a successful auto company and decide to buy a social media platform.   People may think he is nuts, but both remain profitable. He may add in a tunnel boring company and it will be successful as well. Why is this when the companies are so different? It is because he understands the business model regardless of the industry.   Therefore, he has and he keeps on receiving because his efforts are wisely directed from that perspective. This is so much the case that Jesus continues, “and he will superabound.”   As noted, this is a general principle, but it is something that usually occurs. The point is that the disciples were selected to carry forth the message of Jesus. They had received the proper spiritual insights to prosper in this realm. Israel as a nation had squandered their spiritual heritage. This is seen, for example, in the parable of the wicked vinedressers found in Matthew 21.   The disciples followed Jesus and would superabound in their spiritual growth. However, like the wicked vinedressers, Jesus says, “And whoever not he has, and what he has, it will be lifted from him.”   A person with no business acumen will usually find out very quickly that it is so. He lacks a proper understanding of the business model, and his desire to have a particular business will normally fail. What he has, as in saving to start the business, doing all the things necessary to get it going, and then putting up the OPEN sign on the first day, will turn into dashed hopes.   In fact, if he had understood his level of incompetence, he would have done better to put up a GOING OUT OF BUSINESS sign when he first opened the doors. Israel, from its first moments after receiving the law, had failed in a right application of their spiritual lives.   While Moses was on Sinai receiving further instructions after the giving of the Ten Commandments, Israel was fashioning the golden calf. This state of failed spiritual understanding, with few exceptions, continued throughout their history. In fact, the societal structure they developed based on their being stewards of the law meant they were doomed for failure.   The leadership of Israel had so departed from the proper “business model” that they were incapable of understanding spiritual matters properly. Paul refers to this in 2 Corinthians 3 –   “Therefore, since we have such hope, we use great boldness of speech— 13 unlike Moses, who put a veil over his face so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the end of what was passing away. 14 But their minds were blinded. For until this day the same veil remains unlifted in the reading of the Old Testament, because the veil is taken away in Christ. 15 But even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil lies on their heart. 16 Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.” 2 Corinthians 3:12-16   Understanding this, Israel would have the prospect of the kingdom being taken from them. It would transfer to those who were willing to produce in accord with God's will. The kingdom, as it is currently defined, is the age of grace. Israel has remained under law and under the curse, while the church has grown as a separate entity.   Israel will learn its lesson someday and receive the promises of the millennial kingdom, but it will be a difficult journey before it arrives.   Life application: Paul refers to the Law of Moses and the veil that remains over the spiritual eyes of Israel. The law, though standing between God and man, was not the problem, something Paul explains in Romans 7. Rather, it is sin in man that is the problem. The law merely highlights this fact.   Israel, however, failed to see this. They refused to understand the simple five-letter word GRACE. When Jesus came, they had no understanding of what He was referring to in His words because they trusted that, despite their sins in relation to the law, God thought they were great and worthy of His stunned care of them, as if they were the point of His dealings with man.   This is so much the case that even after Paul wrote his inspired epistle concerning the law and their state before it, they could not see through their own biased opinion of themselves. To this day, rabbis openly reject what Paul wrote, as if it were a complete misunderstanding of God's interactions with them.   And yet, being inspired by Him, it is actually a herald's call out to them, beckoning them to stop and think through what He is telling them. Jesus' words of not having and the little they do have being lifted from them are, from a spiritual sense, openly validated in them on a global scale.   They, as a nation, are on worldwide display as to their inability to perceive the grace of God in Christ. This will be highlighted when they have some sort of national victory that will allow them the right to build the temple in Jerusalem again. This is prophesied to occur in Daniel 7. It will be based on a seven-year covenant with the antichrist.   They will equate their technological and military prowess, and national exaltation because of these things, to be signs of God's favor toward them, something that America has been famous at for decades.   Their rejection of Jesus will be on worldwide display, particularly when the two witnesses of Revelation 11 stand and testify concerning Him. If it were not for Jesus' personal intervention by returning to save Israel, no flesh would survive, as noted in Matthew 24:22.   God is using Israel, with all of their spiritual faults, to reveal to the world its desperate need for the grace of Jesus Christ. Understanding this, we can more fully appreciate the cosmic blunder of the doctrine of the Judaizers (Adventists, Hebrew Roots, etc.) who mandate law observance in their theology. Trust in grace, hold fast to it, and revel in what God has done in the giving of Jesus for our sins.   Lord God, thank You for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Wednesday, 17 September 2025   He answered and said to them, “Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. Matthew 13:11   “And having answered, He said to them, ‘Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries ‘the kingdom the heavens.' And to them, not it has been given'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus was questioned by His disciples as to why He spoke to the people in parables. Matthew next records, “And having answered, He said to them, ‘Because it has been given.'”   Scholars vary on what “given” means. For example, some say this is a special act of God. That depends on how you interpret what a special act of God means. Myers NT Commentary, citing Weizsäcker, says, “through the unfolding, that is, of your inward powers of perception, not merely by means of the exposition.”   Stating such a thing defies logic. First, Jesus was speaking in a parable. They asked Him why He speaks in parables, not how to interpret them. Second, in verse 36, they will come to Him and ask Him to explain a parable. In Mark 4, it says that when they were alone, Jesus would explain all things to them.   Understanding a parable does not take a special act of God from within nor an inward power of perception. The answer is found in the next words of Jesus. He continues His words to the disciples, saying, “to you to know the mysteries ‘the kingdom the heavens.'”   The word mustérion, mystery, is introduced. HELPS Word Studies rightly defines the term, saying, it “is not something unknowable. Rather, it is what can only be known through revelation, i.e. because God reveals it.”   This is what the Bible is for. God reveals something, it is recorded in the Bible, and the information is now available. An example of this would be the rapture. It would be impossible to know that a rapture will take place someday unless the Bible said it would occur. God could have just not told us. When it came about, it would then be a mystery revealed, at least to those who were taken.   Because it is recorded in Scripture, it is now a revealed mystery. God has said it will occur, and yet innumerable saved believers deny that the event will take place. This includes well-versed Bible scholars.   The problem with them is not that God has kept it from them and their “inward powers of perception.” Nor is the meaning lacking in the “means of the exposition.” Paul expounds on the event called the rapture, in particular, in 1 Corinthians 15 and 1 Thessalonians 4. A child can pick up those passages, read them, and say, “Because I believe in Jesus, someday I am going to be taken directly to heaven.”   Without the mystery having been revealed by Paul, he never would have known this. But because it is written down, it is now a mystery revealed. So why can't the scholar accept that the rapture will happen, just as Paul details? The answer may be that he had it taught out of him, something not uncommon in seminaries. It may be that he has presuppositions that he is unwilling to let go of.   It isn't because he is lacking some spiritual ability. Even a non-believing Jew could pick up the Bible and understand what it says. “Oy! Those stupid goy believe they are going to be taken directly to heaven someday.” The reason Jesus spoke to the people in parables is explained in the coming verses. For now, He finishes with, “And to them, not it has been given.”   Jesus has purposefully taught in parables to obscure His intent. The information is there, but they need to have it explained to them. The question then is, “Are they willing to ask Him the meaning?” Those seeking will find the answer they desire. From there, they need to either accept it or reject it.   Life application: Having all the information necessary to be saved and live properly before God is found right in the pages of Scripture. The mysteries are explained. That is why they are included in the Bible. There is information we could never deduce without it being told to us. But once it is revealed, it is our job to accept what it says, taking the instruction in the proper context.   In Revelation 10:4, John is told, “Seal up the things which the seven thunders uttered, and do not write them.” In 10:7, it says, “but in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.”   The utterances of the seven thunders were sealed up. They are words that speak of things that cannot be deduced apart from God revealing them. As they are not recorded, when they are proclaimed, nobody will know beforehand that they were the seven utterances. What they convey will have to come about according to the unfolding of God's mystery.   What is the mystery of the church? It is explained by Paul. What is the mystery of Christ? Paul explains it to us. Likewise, he explains the mystery of godliness. These and other mysteries are things that God has explained to us in His word. Once they are explained, they are revealed mysteries.   Their meaning is right there for any person to pick up and read. Whether he accepts the explanation is up to him. Judaizers have the same explanation for the mystery of godliness as anyone else does. They just don't accept its meaning. The mystery of godliness is based on the Person and work of Christ, nothing else.   They reject this and say that you must adhere to the Law of Moses to be godly. It isn't something kept from them to know the meaning. Rather, it is their own presuppositions and arrogant, self-directed attitudes. These lead to a failure to accept that Christ has done everything necessary for their salvation. But the Bible says otherwise.   Lord God, help us not to sensationalize Your word beyond its intent. The Bible is sensational enough just as it is, without us making things up that are not in accord with what You have revealed. May we approach Scripture logically, with a passion for its contents, and with minds that are open and willing to accept what it says. Amen.  

Tuesday, 16 September 2025   And the disciples came and said to Him, “Why do You speak to them in parables?”  Matthew 13:10   “And the disciples, having come, they said to Him, ‘Through what in parables You speak to them?'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus called out for those who heard His parable to hear. Next, Matthew records, “And the disciples, having come.”   Although not a problem, it is unknown exactly when this transpires. It doesn't say “then,” or “at that time.” Therefore, their question could have come at any time, but Matthew is recording it here for the convenience of understanding.   Mark 4:10 says, “But when He was alone, those around Him with the twelve asked Him about the parable.” Luke 8 brings this question up in the same manner as Matthew, placing it right after the time Jesus tells His audience to hear.   Jesus was in a boat giving this parable. It appears that He continued His discourse and that the question came later. When it came, it was something asked not only by the twelve, but by many of the disciples.   Whatever the exact timeline, “they said to Him, ‘Through what in parables You speak to them?'”   The disciples' question is natural. Instead of just plainly telling the people what He was talking about, Jesus' words are interesting but veiled. Their question is probably as much a petition to have the explanation to the parables provided as it is one asking why He spoke this way.   At the time, despite being disciples, they were also a part of the audience. If someone from the crowd came up and asked them to explain the parable, they would have been incapable of doing so. This probably occurred and brought about their question to Jesus. This seems likely based on what it says in Mark 4 –   “And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.” Mark 4:33, 34   Life application: In Matthew 7, Jesus has already been recorded as saying this:   “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” Matthew 7:7, 8   Jesus may be speaking in parables, and the disciples may not understand why, but He has already told them that in seeking, the answer will be found. How He responds to their question will, therefore, apply to anyone who comes to Him for an answer.   To this day, the words of Jesus are open to the Jewish people. They are not secreted away by the Lord where they cannot be saved during this dispensation. But there has to be a motivation to seek the truth. In the recent past, a soldier in Israel shared his story about his father's conversion.   He “came to faith after picking up a flyer about Jesus on the street that was just lying around. Reading it and then going to the Bible and reading the gospel about Jesus. Because of all the stigma, he thought the New Testament was written by Nazis, but when he picked it up, he said ‘I felt like it's the real deal that continues the Old Testament.'”   Imagine that. A gospel tract was thrown away by one person, but another picked it up and was willing to check things out. He was encouraged and challenged enough that he had to know if it was true. The disciples have asked Jesus about the hidden mysteries of God. But nothing is really hidden if one searches for the truth and then opens his heart to what he discovers.   Lord God, our time in handing out tracts may seem wasted when we don't hear about any conversions or breakthroughs in the area where we hand them out, but give us the desire to continue to share the good news this way and in any other way that we can. A plant cannot grow unless the seed is first planted. Amen.

Monday, 15 September 2025   He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” Matthew 13:9   “The ‘having ears to hear,' he – hear!” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus spoke of the seed falling on the good earth and the abundance it provides. Having completed the parable, He next says, “The ‘having ears to hear,' he – hear!”   Jesus' words are the same as Matthew 11:15. It is an admonition to listen, understand, and pay attention, applying His words to their lives. In this case, He has instructed the people concerning soil and seed. What He says has value to the person sowing real seed.   This is how things work, and most people listening to Him, who planted the seed, would know this. Some people may never have thought the process through, just helping out on a farm or being young and unaware of how things worked. They could then say, “I heard that Rabbi speaking about sowing seed and I'll follow His advice.”   But Jesus' intent is not to teach about farming practices. The words were given as a parable, and the people would have known this. The problem is that when He says for them to hear, they may not have understood what He was telling them. In fact, in the giving of this parable as recorded in Luke, it says, “Then His disciples asked Him, saying, ‘What does this parable mean?'” (Luke 8:9).   To this day, people differ on the interpretation or intended audience for Jesus' words. Because this is so, having ears to hear may not be as easy as it seems.   Life application: Despite differing interpretations on parables, verses, intended audience for a given passage, etc., there is a proper and intended meaning for everything in Scripture. There are several important points that must be considered for everything that is recorded. The main point above all is considering the context.   A simple example of this is the Law of Moses. Who is the intended audience for adhering to the law? The context is stated right in the giving of the law and within the law itself. The law was given to Israel. Really, go check it out. Read Exodus 19 and 20, where the basis for the law was given, meaning the Ten Commandments.   After that, Israel is the intended audience throughout the entire time of the law. For example, go read Deuteronomy 5:1 and Jeremiah 2:4, among almost a billion other times that words of law are spoken. Israel alone is always the intended audience. Even Jesus addresses Israel directly, quoting the law, such as in Mark 12:29.   No other nation on the planet was given the law. No other nation was required to observe the law. And when Jesus died, it was in fulfillment of the law. Thus, in its fulfillment, it was ended. This is stated explicitly by Jesus Himself. It is also recorded in the epistles numerous times. So why do churches continue to tell people they have to tithe, not eat pork, or to observe the Sabbath?   These are points of law. The context tells us who the law was for.   To understand the meaning of a parable or who the intended audience is for it may not be readily apparent, but the matter will not be solved and solidified in your mind in a manner that matches Scripture unless you read and rightly apply Scripture.   It may be that you have an exceptional preacher or teacher who properly explains these things, but unless you also know the book, you can only assume what he says is correct. In the end, each of us is responsible for his or her doctrine. To place one's eternal soul in the hands of someone else's doctrine without verifying what they say is the height of stupidity.   If you go to any Jehovah's Witnesses meetings, they will tell you they trust the doctrine of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. And yet, what they teach is heretical and anathema to God. Imagine that. Over nine million people in the Jehovah's Witnesses are destined for eternal separation from God because they fail to accept the principle point of Scripture, that Jesus Christ is God.   Be discerning. Read the Bible, consider its context, and don't be led astray by people who have an agenda to control your life by controlling the doctrine of your faith.   Lord God, help us in our understanding of Your word. Open our eyes when we read it to find the truth as You present it. Please keep us away from false teachers and unsound teachings. Please lead us to a right understanding of it and to a closer walk with You. Amen.