Podcasts about Christian Standard Bible

In today's episode, the Lord visits Abraham by sending three messengers to his home. He reveals that in a year's time he will give Abraham a son through his wife, Sarah. He also reveals that he is sending his messengers to Sodom and Gomorrah, because the wickedness of the people has grown so severe that it calls for complete annihilation. Before they are sent out, Abraham pleads with the Lord to spare the righteous and the Lord finally agrees that if even ten righteous people are found there, he will not destroy it. The angels rescue Lot, but as we will soon see, sin continues to flourish. Later, a son is born to Abraham and is named, “Isaac,” which means, “He laughs.”Genesis 18 – 1:15 . Genesis 19 – 7:42 . Genesis 20 – 14:43 . Genesis 21 – 18:58 . Psalm 6 – 24:14 . Psalm 7 – 25:35 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today we get to see the Lord's faithfulness to a sinful man who doubts, who wavers, who makes poor decisions, but who ultimately responds to the Lord's instruction. It would be hard to argue that the Lord chose Abram because of his upstanding moral qualities, however, as his flaws aren't covered up or diminished. Instead, in God's own kindness, He makes promises to Abram, promises that will last from one generation to the next, on and on through the ages. The Lord makes these promises, not because Abram deserves it or because His holy hands would be tied without Abram's cooperate; instead, through his work in Abram's life God will show the world his steadfast love and sovereign provision.Genesis 14 – 1:17 . Genesis 15 – 5:34 . Genesis 16 – 9:09 . Genesis 17 – 13:20 . Psalm 5 – 18:50 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After we wade through genealogies of Noah's sons, we encounter the tower of Babel, a monument to man's rebellion against God. Being made in the image of God, these men imitate their creator by creating, which is all well and good, except that they defy God's command to fill the earth and attempt to rob God of glory by making a name for themselves. God graciously uses language to scatter them so they can see the expansive majesty of His Creation rather than stare at the cute little tower they've made. In time, Abram is born, and God makes great promises as He calls Abram to follow His commands.Genesis 10 – 1:11 . Genesis 11 – 4:42 . Genesis 12 – 9:35 . Genesis 13 – 13:03 . Psalm 3 – 16:11 . Psalm 4 – 17:20 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Noah is often portrayed as a cartoonish old man surrounded by cute animals all smiling happily from their little boat; but the reality of the flood was far more grueling than the nursery murals suggest. Imagine what it would be like to survive an apocalyptic flood where almost everyone you know is destroyed and you're stuck in a crowded, floating menagerie. Noah is rightly credited as brave and faithful to the Lord, but the Bible doesn't allow us to think that the flood has solved the problem of sin. Even faithful Noah, who diligently constructed a massive vessel and survived destruction, was imperfect and flawed.Genesis 5 - 1:15 . Genesis 6 - 4:56 . Genesis 7 - 9:35 . Genesis 8 - 13:42 . Genesis 9 - 17:24 . Psalm 2 - 22:07 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last reading the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah to announce the conception of his son, whom we know as John the Baptist. Gabriel also appeared to Mary to announce that she would conceive a son by the power of the Holy Spirit who would be the promised Son of David, Jesus the Christ. In today's episode, when Mary goes to visit Elizabeth an unexpected interaction takes place, and both women praise God in response. Later, when John is born, Zechariah's tongue is loosed and he prophesies concerning his son. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, mankind was ejected from the garden of Eden for sinning against the Lord God. Today, we see sin and wickedness grow until finally the Lord decides wipe mankind from the face of the earth. Only Noah, his family, and an ark full of animals are saved from destruction. In many of our modern conceptions of Noah, we fashion a cartoonish old man surrounded by cute animals all smiling happily from their little boat; but the reality of the flood was far more grueling than the nursery murals suggest. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

So much could be said about these first four chapters as Genesis 1-4 lays a foundation for the rest of Scripture. We learn about a God who creates all things out of His own volition in a way that is well-ordered and executed simply by proclamation. Special attention is given to the creation of mankind in God's own image and God's generous provision for man both before and after sin. Here, too, we see man's relationship with God fall from one of peace, unity, and harmony into one of disorder and division as man rejects God's good design and sins against His Maker.Genesis 1 - 1:12 . Genesis 2 - 7:13 . Genesis 3 - 12:10 . Genesis 4 - 18:11 . Psalm 1 - 23:20 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Luke, the physician, sets the stage for his gospel account by telling his friend that his goal in writing is to compile an orderly narrative of the accounts he has accumulating concerning Jesus. He begins by retelling what happened to Zechariah and to Mary when each was visited by the angel Gabriel. This messenger from the heavens announces the conception of two different babies: one born to Elizabeth would who would go before the Messiah, and one born to Mary who be that promised Son of David. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

So much could be said about these first four chapters as Genesis 1-3 lays a foundation for the rest of Scripture. We learn about a God who creates all things out of His own volition in a way that is well-ordered and executed simply by proclamation. Special attention is given to the creation of mankind in God's own image and God's generous provision for man both before and after sin. Here, too, we see man's relationship with God fall from one of peace, unity, and harmony into one of disorder and division as man rejects God's good design and sins against His Maker.Genesis 1 - 1:03 . Genesis 2 - 7:08 . Genesis 3 - 12:03 . Psalm 1 - 17:19 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

For more information visit commuterbible.org or patreon.com/commuterbible  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

For more information visit commuterbible.org or patreon.com/commuterbible  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

For more information visit commuterbible.org or patreon.com/commuterbible  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

On today's episode, there is celebration in heaven over the just destruction of Babylon, the great prostitute. By contrast, the marriage supper of the Lamb is announced, and His bride is dressed in fine linen, representing the righteous acts of the saints. The beast, the kings of the earth and their armies, and the false prophet are all thrown into the lake that burns with sulfur. Satan is bound in the abyss for a thousand years, then released in order to deceive the nations and gather them for battle against the saints, but they, too, are handily defeated. After the great white throne judgment, John sees the New Jerusalem, a city of glorious prosperity and security, illumined by the glory of God.Revelation 19 - 1:11 . Revelation 20 - 5:49 . Revelation 21 - 10:22 . Revelation 22 - 16:02 . Psalm 150 - 20:36 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Friends, we've reached the final chapter of the final book of the New Testament, which means we have also reached the end of our reading plan for the year. Today, John sees the river of the water of life flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. Whereas the first Adam fell into sin and death by eating from a tree, the second Adam from above provides a tree of life which heals the nations. John hears the Lord say that he is coming soon, and that his reward is with him. He declares himself to be the Alpha and the Omega, the root and descendant of David, and the bright morning star. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Friends, this is our final episode in our chronological reading of the Old Testament, the book of the prophet Malachi. Not much is known about Malachi, (whose name means “my messenger”), but contextual clues suggest that this was written after the exile had ended. Enthusiasm for right worship of God had waned, and Malachi exhorts the priests to honor the Lord. Uniquely, Malachi presents his prophesy using a conversational pattern between the priests and the Lord God, wherein God makes a claim, the priests respond by asking questions, and subsequently the Lord answers. This book is a mixture of indictment and hope, pointing those who are indifferent to God's ordinances to worship rightly while encouraging the faithful to stay the course and receive the Lord's favor.Malachi 1 - 1:02 .Malachi 2 - 4:58 . Malachi 3 - 10:01 . Malachi 4 - 14:28 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As God's wrath is poured out in seven phases, you'll be reminded of the plagues poured out on Egypt when pharaoh refused to let God's people leave and go to the Promised Land. Water turns to blood, the people are stricken with sores, demonic spirits appear like frogs, enormous hail stones fall, all under the direction of God Almighty and his angels. Following the seventh bowl of God's wrath, we'll read a post-script that section that tells us more about the great city named “Babylon,” her relationship with the beast, and the nature of her sins against God.Revelation 16 - 1:11 . Revelation 17 - 5:20 . Revelation 18 - 10:45 . Isaiah 66 - 17:31 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

While the message of “Immanuel, God with us” is rightly accented at Christmastime, it is neither the beginning nor the end of the idea. In fact, God's presence with his people is a story arc that begins in Genesis and finds it fruition here in Revelation. In the new heaven and the new earth the Lord will be with his people in the fullest and more final sense. A new Jerusalem appears with massive walls but with 12 open gates named after the 12 apostles of the Lamb. The walls and streets are made of transparent gold, and even the foundations are adorned with jewels. All of this imagery connotes that this city is secure, beautiful, and wanting for nothing. There is no temple in this city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are it's temple. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The temple is finished. The wall is finished. The people have rededicated themselves to the Lord's house, and on today's episode, the remnant of Israel rejoices. With the work completed, Nehemiah returns to Persia to serve under King Artaxerxes as he had before, just as he had promised. All is right with the world, and God's people serve Him faithfully from then on, right? Wrong! In fact, not long after Nehemiah leaves, the work of the temple is all but abandoned and Eliashib, who is in charge of the temple storehouses, clears out a room for Tobiah the Ammonite official, who happens to be a relative. Nehemiah returns once more to set things straight.Nehemiah 11 - 1:01 . Nehemiah 12 - 6:25 . Nehemiah 13 - 14:09 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Revelation is full of imagery and symbolism that continues to spark discussion and debate among believers, but the overall impression that we should get from these prophecies is that the end is under God's full control; in his sovereignty and power He will execute his just wrath upon those who oppose Him, and those who trust Him are secured eternally, though not without temporary hardship. The beast will oppose God's witnesses and deceive many. The dragon, Satan, will fight for glory and wage war against God's people. Even so, neither the beast, nor the dragon, nor their followers will escape God's justice and wrath. God's faithful ones will be avenged and delivered.Revelation 11 - 1:09 . Revelation 12 - 5:19 . Revelation 13 - 9:14 . Revelation 14 - 14:21 . Revelation 15 - 19:29 . Isaiah 65 - 21:34 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

There are many things written in the book of Revelation that are confusing and sometimes even scary, but one truth shines brightly throughout the message of this book: in the end Christ is unfathomably glorious and eternally victorious. In our last episode, Babylon the Great fell and the world mourned. Today, the vast multitude of heaven cheers that God's righteous judgment is begin executed. Christ appears as a rider on a white horse whose robe is dipped in blood, and the sword from his mouth will strike the nations who refused to repent. The beast and its armies will be slain, and Satan will be bound. The slain in Christ who had not submitted to the beast are raised from the dead to reign with Christ for a thousand years. Ultimately, Satan is thrown into the lake of fire, along with all of those whose name is not found in the book of life. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Now that the work of rebuilding the temple and rebuilding the walls surrounding Jerusalem is complete, the exiles from Israel gather together to hear Ezra read from the book of the Law. The Levites explain the law to the people as it is being read, and when the congregation understands the extent to which they have broken the Law, they mourn over their actions. Nehemiah, Ezra, and the Levites encourage them to rejoice, for the people have not only returned to their land, but they have returned to their God. At the end of our reading, the Levites recite a confession they had written based on Israel's rebellious history, concluding with a documented vow to serve the Lord.Nehemiah 8 - 1:01 . Nehemiah 9 - 6:04 . Nehemiah 10 - 16:34 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, Jesus appeared to the apostle John with instructions for seven churches. After this, John sees God seated on His throne, attended by four living creatures and 24 elders in white robes. One like a slaughtered lamb appears in the midst of the throne to open a scroll that has seven seals. In today's episode, the lamb begins to open those seals. The first four seals release riders on horses, each with a different supernatural task. The fifth seal prompts the souls of those slain for their faithfulness to cry for justice. The sixth seal induces chaotic natural catastrophes and reveals those coming out of the great tribulation. Finally, the seventh seal prompts seven angels with trumpets.Revelation 6 - 1:14 . Revelation 7 - 4:58 . Revelation 8 - 10:07 . Revelation 9 - 13:00 . Revelation 10 - 17:07 . Isaiah 64 - 19:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, an angel escorted John to a wilderness where he saw a woman on a scarlet beast. That woman has “Babylon the Great” written on her forehead. Today, another angel with great authority proclaims that Babylon has fallen. This lament is modeled after the lament found in Jeremiah 51, one of the longest chapters in Scripture, which declares the fall of the historic Babylon. Since Revelation is a book about the future, we don't know exactly what this represents, but it is likely that Babylon is representative of a global power in rebellion against God. Merchants mourn her demise, for they had grown rich from her. Finally, a mighty angel hurls a large stone into the sea, saying that Babylon will fall like this, never to rise again. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As we began to see our last episode, the governors who oversee region west of the Euphrates, which includes Judah and Jerusalem, are unhappy that Nehemiah has been sent to help rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Feeling threatened, Sanballat and other officials create false rumors and even bribe others to attempt to deceive Nehemiah. They make every attempt to stop or delay the work, but in just 52 days' time, Nehemiah and the diligent remnant Israel rebuild the wall and restore the gates. Once the gates are up and guards are established, Nehemiah begins to sort out families so that they can build houses and settle in the land.Nehemiah 5 - 1:01 . Nehemiah 6 - 5:23 . Nehemiah 7 - 10:28 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Sometimes when you're studying the Bible you can get so deep into study that you miss the forest for the trees. Such is often the case with the book of Revelation, as we try to peer deeply into symbolism and the order of events to decipher what the end of days will look like. One big takeaway that we ought not miss is this: Jesus is absolutely glorious and eternally victorious. Take notice of the sheer amount of text used to describe the glory that John sees and the ways that those in heaven acknowledge King Jesus. Be encouraged by this simple, yet profound truth: Christ reigns with authority and power over the heavens and over all creation.Revelation 1 – 1:10 . Revelation 2 – 5:38 . Revelation 3 – 13:10 . Revelation 4 – 18:16 . Revelation 5 – 20:59 . Isaiah 63 – 24:38 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Seven angels have poured out seven bowls of wrath, and today, one of them approaches John and carries him away in the Spirit to a wilderness. There, he sees a woman sitting on a scarlet beast. The woman is clothed in lavish and expensive attire, but holds a cup with every detestable thing. Moreover, she is drunk on the blood of the saints and the witnesses of Jesus. “Babylon the Great” is written on her forehead. The angel then explains the beast and its seven heads, stating that they represent seven mountains and seven kings. The beast itself represents an eighth king. It's ten horns also represent ten kings which reign briefly, give their power and authority to the beast, and who unsuccessfully wage war with the Lamb. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As mentioned previously, Nehemiah is a continuation of the Ezra, recorded the history of Israel and their return from exile. Nehemiah, an exile who lived in Persia's capital and served King Artaxerxes as his royal cupbearer, hears news that Jerusalem has been laid waste. The wall surrounding the city had been greatly compromised and the gates that would have maintained a secure entrance had been burned down. In great dismay, Nehemiah asks the king if he can return to help restore the city. With the king's approval and with papers in hand, Nehemiah goes back to Jerusalem, but the local governors are not happy that he has come. Nehemiah surveys the damage under cover of night, then urges Israel to join him in the work of rebuilding the wall and gates.Nehemiah 1 - 1:02 . Nehemiah 2 - 3:44 . Nehemiah 3 - 9:24 . Nehemiah 4 - 15:42 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Not much is known about the prophet Malachi, (whose name means “my messenger”), but contextual clues suggest that this was written after the exile had ended. Enthusiasm for right worship of God had waned, and Malachi exhorts the priests to honor the Lord. Uniquely, Malachi presents his prophesy using a conversational pattern between the priests and the Lord God, wherein God makes a claim, the priests respond by asking questions, and subsequently the Lord answers. This book is a mixture of indictment and hope, pointing those who are indifferent to God's ordinances to worship rightly while encouraging the faithful to stay the course and receive the Lord's favor.Malachi 1 - 1:12 . Malachi 2 - 5:05 . Malachi 3 - 10:16 . Malachi 4 - 14:36 . Isaiah 61 - 16:12 . Isaiah 62 - 19:00 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode the Son of Man appeared, seated on a cloud with a sickle in his hand. He harvested the earth with a single swing, and with a second swing he gathered the grapes for the winepress of God's wrath. Today, the heavenly temple, also called the tabernacle of testimony, opens. Out of this temple, seven angels come forth to retrieve 7 golden bowls which are filled with God's wrath. The first bowl produces painful sores for those who served the beast. The second bowl turns the sea to blood causing all life in the sea to die. The third bowl, likewise, turns the rivers and springs to blood. The fourth bowl intensifies the sun's heat. The fifth bowl is poured on the throne of beast, plunging its kingdom into darkness. The sixth bowl dries up the Euphrates. The seventh bowl brings a number of natural disasters. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, we were introduced to Ezra, a scribe in exile who had been trained in the law of Moses and who had “determined in his heart to study the law of the Lord, obey it, and teach it's statutes and ordinances in Israel.” King Artaxerxes has expressly commanded Ezra to do just that. After we review some of the family heads who accompanied Ezra for the journey back to Jerusalem, we discover that even the leaders of those who had returned from exile had disobeyed the commands of the Lord by marrying foreign women. This was forbidden under the law of Moses, and can be cited as one of the reasons Israel abandoned the Lord and pursued other gods.Ezra 8 - 1:01 . Ezra 9 - 7:21 . Ezra 10 - 12:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our final episode in the book of Zechariah, the prophet proclaims that Jerusalem will be secure from warring nations. They will be blessed further through spiritual reconciliation with God. He will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the house of David and on Jerusalem, and they will mourn for the one they pierced. On that day a fountain will be opened to wash away their sin and impurity. Living water from Jerusalem will flow in abundance, Like the prophet Isaiah, Zechariah predicts that the nations will come from all around to worship the God of Israel.Zechariah 12 - 1:15 . Zechariah 13 - 4:33 . Zechariah 14 - 7:39 . Isaiah 59 - 12:55 . Isaiah 60 - 17:50 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The last few chapters have been focused on the dragon and the two beasts that arose from the sea and from the earth. In our last reading, we learned that the number of the beast is 666 and that this number or the beast's name were to be marked on the right hand or on the forehead of everyone one earth. Today, the focus switches from the dragon to the Lamb who stands on Mount Zion with the 144,000. They have the Father's name on their foreheads, and stand aloft, unharmed by the dragon or the two beasts. Three angels fly high overhead warning of judgment on Babylon and those who worship the beast and its image. The Son of Man appears, seated on a cloud with a sickle in his hand. He harvests the earth with a single swing, and soon thereafter the rest of the earth harvested for wrath. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Haman's wrath against Mordecai and the Jewish people has returned on his own head. On today's episode, Esther continues to represent her people before the king, turning a day of mourning into a day of rejoicing. As we finish Esther we'll be turning back to the historical narrative recorded in the book of Ezra in which we learn of a new Persian king named Artaxerxes. While historians differ, it is believed that Artaxerxes' father is the Ahaseurus from Esther, known more broadly as Xerxes. We are also introduced to the man for whom the book of Ezra is named as he is sent by Artaxerxes to Jerusalem.Esther 9 - 1:05 . Esther 10 - 8:11 . Ezra 7 - 9:06 . Proverbs 31 - 14:46 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Zechariah prophesies that judgment is coming for Zion's enemies, but in a surprising reversal after their punishment, God will call them to be a part of his people as a remnant. Later, Zion is called to rejoice, for their king is coming. He is described as being victorious, righteous and humble all at once, even riding a donkey instead of a mule as was customary for kings. The Lord promises to restore his people and defend them from their enemies. Finally, Zechariah takes on the role of a shepherd of those sheep who were raised for purpose of being slaughtered as a symbolic parallel, for the shepherds had not cared for them; they only used them for personal gain.Zechariah 9 - 1:09 . Zechariah 10 - 5:25 . Zechariah 11 - 9:07 . Isaiah 57 - 13:19 . Isaiah 58 - 18:09 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As the dragon stands on the shore, a beast comes out of the sea. It has ten horns and seven heads, each horn has a crown and each head has a blasphemous name. One head appears to have been fatally wounded, but has since been healed. The earth is enamored with the beast and worships the dragon, who gave the beast authority. The beast speaks blasphemies against God and wages war against the saints. Another beast comes up from the earth whose two horns are like that of a lamb, but whose voice is like that dragon. It exercises the authority of the beast on it's behalf and makes everyone on earth receive a mark on their right hand or forehead. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Haman, the royal official who hates Mordecai for being disrespectful and insubordinate, has tricked King Ahaseurus into giving him even more power and authority. With the king's signet ring in hand, he devised a scheme to wipe out the Jewish people, whom he hates because of his hatred for Mordecai. Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall,” and that proverb will be on full display here in today's episode as we observe the life, and death, of Haman. As Esther approaches the king, we'll see God's orchestration of divine justice even in Persia, while Esther and her people are blessed by a holy and sovereign God who provides for those who fear Him.Esther 5 - 1:05 . Esther 6 - 4:30 . Esther 7 - 8:35 . Esther 8 - 12:03 . Proverbs 30:18-33 – 16:34 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We're picking up where we left off in the collection of visions that Zechariah saw, today looking at visions six, seven and eight. The vision of the flying scroll is an indication that God's just law is about to be executed in the land. Wickedness is personified as a woman who is taken captive and sent away to Babylon to be worshiped. The eighth vision, like the first, includes four horses who patrol the earth, signifying God's sovereignty over all creation. After this Zechariah addresses questions of fasting and declares that a day of fruitfulness and feasting is coming for those who seek the Lord.Zechariah 5 - 1:11 . Zechariah 6 - 3:20 . Zechariah 7 - 6:55 . Zechariah 8 - 9:40 . Isaiah 56 – 14:38 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The book of Revelation is full of imagery and prophecy, which means that as we read there will be many confusing passages that Christians may disagree on and which I will not be able to cover at length here. Some see this next section as an overlap, sort of a call back to what has already been described at a different angle. The sign of the woman that gives birth to a child who will rule the nations is full of references to Psalm 2 which in turn is full messianic promises. The dragon is a reference to Satan, who sought to annihilate this promised child through Herod. The woman is later supernaturally sustained for 1260 days, which is the exact amount of time that the two witnesses were protected. Unable to harm the woman, the dragon wages war against those who keep the commands of God. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The account of Esther, the Jewish orphan who becomes the queen of Persia, is neither a Cinderella story, nor a how-to guide for righteousness. It does, however, give us a picture of the God who graciously uses broken people to achieve His glorious ends and fulfill His covenant promises. The names that the two Jewish characters operate under, Esther and Mordecai, are not Israelite names, but are instead names that give honor to Persian gods. The book reflects how they operate under this saturation of Persian culture by mentioning the Persian king 190 times while God is never explicitly mentioned. On today's episode we meet Esther, Mordecai, King Ahaseurus, and the self-righteous enemy of God's people: Haman.Esther 1 - 1:02 . Esther 2 - 5:51 . Esther 3 - 11:50 . Esther 4 - 15:42 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Thus far in our reading of Revelation, the lamb has opened the seven seals on the scroll and seven angels have come forward to blow trumpets. At this point, only six of the seven trumpets have been blown. Today, a mighty angels appears with a small scroll, which John commanded to eat; it tastes as sweet as honey, but it makes his stomach bitter. Two unnamed witnesses appear and are given authority to prophesy and to declare plagues. When their time is complete, the beast will arise to kill them. Though they will lay slain in street for three and a half days, at which point the breath of God will enter them and they will rise to their feet. When the seventh trumpet is blown, the 24 elders declare that “the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever.” :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, Zechariah symbolically takes on the role of a shepherd of those sheep who were raised for purpose of being slaughtered, for the shepherds had not cared for them; they only used them for personal gain. The prophet then proclaims that Jerusalem will be secure from warring nations and that they will be blessed further through spiritual reconciliation with God. The Lord will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the house of David and on Jerusalem, and they will mourn for the one they pierced. On that day a fountain will be opened to wash away their sin and impurity. Living water from Jerusalem will flow in abundance. Like the prophet Isaiah, Zechariah predicts that the nations will come from all around to worship the God of Israel.Zechariah 10 - 1:04 . Zechariah 11 - 3:47 . Zechariah 12 - 7:32 . Zechariah 13 - 11:42 . Zechariah 14 - 14:06 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In Peter's second letter, the apostle writes to encourage the church to confirm their calling and election by exercising the divine power given to them for life and godliness. Peter warns them against false teachers who claim Christ but in reality are self-glorifying and treacherous, exploiting the church in their greed with made-up stories. Finally, Peter encourages the church to patiently await Christ's second coming, for the judgment of the wicked is sure. Since this is a short epistle we'll have a double dose of Isaiah, reading chapters 52-53, wherein the suffering servant is pierced because of our rebellion and crushed because of our iniquities, but we are healed by his wounds.2 Peter 1 - 1:13 . 2 Peter 2 - 4:59 . 2 Peter 3 - 9:42 . Isaiah 52 - 13:44 . Isaiah 53 - 17:09 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The prophet Zechariah was a contemporary of the prophet Haggai; both prophesy to those exiles returning to Jerusalem, but while Haggai focuses mainly on rebuilding the temple, Zechariah sees visions of a future king. As such is the case, the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John incorporate more passages from Zechariah than from any other prophet. In today's reading, Zechariah prophesies through night visions; we'll cover 5 out of 8 of them in this episode. One is of horsemen who patrol the world, another of horns and craftsmen, another of a man who surveys and measures Jerusalem, a fourth of the high priest Joshua and a servant called the Branch, and a fifth of a gold lampstand.Zechariah 1 - 1:13 . Zechariah 2 - 5:39 . Zechariah 3 - 8:53 . Zechariah 4 - 11:12 . Isaiah 54 - 13:58 . Isaiah 55 - 18:04 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The lamb has taken the scroll from the one seated on throne and has opened the first six of its seven seals. Today, the lamb opens the seventh seal. After a period of silence, seven angels with seven trumpets appear. With each successive trumpet blast a series natural disasters and plagues occur reminiscent of the plagues released upon Egypt in the time of Moses. After six of the seven trumpets have been blown, we are told that those who survived these plagues remain unrepentant of their works of lawlessness. As we read, keep in mind that the number seven often represents perfection or completion in Scripture.  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We're picking up where we left off in the collection of visions that Zechariah saw, today looking at visions six, seven and eight. The vision of the flying scroll is an indication that God's just law is about to be executed in the land. Wickedness is personified as a woman who is taken captive and sent away to Babylon to be worshiped. The eighth vision, like the first, includes four horses who patrol the earth, signifying God's sovereignty over all creation. After this Zechariah addresses questions of fasting and declares that a day of fruitfulness and feasting is coming for those who seek the Lord. He then predicts judgment on Zion's enemies and declares that their king is coming.Zechariah 5 - 1:03 . Zechariah 6 - 3:24 . Zechariah 7 - 6:26 . Zechariah 8 - 10:01 . Zechariah 9 - 15:13 . Proverbs 30:1-17 - 19:16 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Like Jonah before him, the prophet Nahum preaches devastation and ruin for Ninevah, the capital of Assyria, a place of unparalleled power and wealth. Though they thought themselves to be secure from danger, their downfall came after nearby rivers flooded the city and destroyed part of the city wall, allowing Babylon to enter easily and set it ablaze. Later in Habakkuk, the prophet of the same name is recorded speaking to the Lord on behalf of his people. He openly and honestly struggles with understanding why God would allow injustice to prevail. By his conversation with the Lord, we are reminded of the sovereign power and authority of God, who calls the righteous to live by faith.Nahum 1 - 1:15 . Nahum 2 - 4:27 . Nahum 3 - 7:20 . Habakkuk 1 - 12:54 . Habakkuk 2 - 16:20 . Habakkuk 3 - 20:55 . Psalm 149 - 25:02 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The prophet Zephaniah extends an urgent invitation to seek the Lord and only the Lord. At the time of Zephaniah's prophecy, even the priests in the house of the Lord were worshipping other gods. He predicts that a day of the Lord is approaching to eliminate those who rebel against Him, but in His grace, he will leave a meek and humble remnant. Later, in 2 Thessalonians, Paul writes to the church concerning how they should live in light of Christ's impending return. Rather than live idle lives, they are encouraged to work until that day comes, giving glory to God by loving each other well and committing themselves to faithful obedience.Zephaniah 1 – 1:09 . Zephaniah 2 – 5:02 . Zephaniah 3 – 8:47 . 2 Thessalonians 1 – 14:41 . 2 Thessalonians 2 – 16:55 . 2 Thessalonians 3 – 19:59 . Psalm 148 – 22:56 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As we finish out the second half of the book of Micah, we'll immediately see another crystal clear prophecy; this one predicts that the coming Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, a small town that was unlikely to have anything significant take place within it. God promises that one day he will remove those earthly and idolatrous occupations which keep his people from worshipping him rightly, asserting that nations who have not obeyed him will receive his anger and wrath. Finally, Micah looks past the coming destruction of Israel to declare the future hope of redemption for those who repent from their sin and serve the Lord.Micah 5 - 1:08 . Micah 6 - 4:07 . Micah 7 - 8:38 . Isaiah 50 - 13:36 . Isaiah 51 - 16:30 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Given the time frame established by the prophet himself, Micah's prophecies are astoundingly clear and accurate, as he clearly pronounces the fall of Samaria, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the coming captivity in Babylon. The people had grown comfortable in religious activity but they were excusing sin and denying the possibility of judgment. He urges God's people to consider the nature and character of God Himself, and in so doing, they ought to repent in light of his justice and holiness.Micah 1 - 1:13 . Micah 2 - 4:40 . Micah 3 - 8:44 . Micah 4 - 11:34 . Isaiah 48 - 15:17 . Isaiah 49 - 20:06 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Joel is one of the shortest books of the Old Testament and is divided in two parts. The first half describes a plague of locusts that invade the land and destroy the land's produce, threatening the survival of animals, people, and even grain offerings before the Lord. That section ends with a plea for God's people to confess their sins, transitioning to the second half of the book, which contains promises of the Lord to restore and rebuild his people and the land. Interpreters debate about the relationship between the locusts & the army; is the army a swarm of locusts, or is Joel comparing the people of the army to that of a swarm of locusts? Maybe both! Regardless, the promises of God to restore repentant people resound w/ hope & joy.Joel 1 – 1:11 . Joel 2 – 4:45 . Joel 3 – 12:35 . Isaiah 47 – 16:49 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org