Podcasts about Christian Standard Bible

Paul loves the church in Corinth, but at the writing of this letter, the feeling wasn't entirely mutual. The Corinthian church had received a severe letter from Paul that contained instructions about disciplining a church member. This could be the man mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5 or it could be some other person within the church. Whatever the case may be, it pained the church. Paul writes this opening section to bring comfort to the church, to reaffirm his love for them, and to encourage the Corinthians to continue to love him, too. His confidence comes, not from letters of recommendation written by men, but from the Spirit who gives life and opens the eyes of men to see the light of the gospel.2 Corinthians 1 - 1:08 . 2 Corinthians 2 - 5:53 . 2 Corinthians 3 - 9:45 . 2 Corinthians 4 - 12:56 . 2 Corinthians 5 - 16:21 . Isaiah 12 – 20:25 .  :::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

Obadiah is the shortest book in Old Testament, and it's a prophecy directed against one nation: the nation of Edom. Though the time or century of this proclamation is not fully known, it is clear from the text that Edom is guilty of mocking Judah in their distress and taking advantage of their dire situation. In the end, however, the Lord will bring His people back but Edom will be devastated. Titus is a short epistle from Paul that includes qualifications for elders and a call to live together in unity and stop fighting about trivial matters. There are so many great truths in this one small letter. Alright, let's dive in.Obadiah - 1:06 . Titus 1 - 6:57 . Titus 2 - 9:42 . Titus 3 - 12:05 . Isaiah 11 - 14:55 .  :::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

Now that Hezekiah has reestablished worship at the Lord's temple, he wants to provide for the Levites who have gathered together to serve the Lord in the work of the temple. Thankfully, the people of Judah show kindness and faithfulness by giving a tenth of all that they harvested and produced. Later, King Sennacherib threatens Hezekiah and all Judah by laying siege to their fortified cities and denouncing the Lord God of Israel. Hezekiah maintains faithfulness, putting his trust in the Lord, and is delivered from the hands of his enemies. After Hezekiah's death, two kings arise from his lineage named Manasseh and Amon, but sadly they excel in evil like King Ahaz before them. 2 Chronicles 31 - 1:17 . 2 Chronicles 32 - 6:17 . 2 Chronicles 33 - 14:51 . Isaiah 10:1-19 - 20:25 .  :::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

Now that Hezekiah has reestablished worship at the Lord's temple, he wants to provide for the Levites who have gathered together to serve the Lord in the work of the temple. Thankfully, the people of Judah show kindness and faithfulness by giving a tenth of all that they harvested and produced. Later, King Sennacherib threatens Hezekiah and all Judah by laying siege to their fortified cities and denouncing the Lord God of Israel. Hezekiah maintains faithfulness, putting his trust in the Lord, and is delivered from the hands of his enemies. After Hezekiah's death, two kings arise from his lineage named Manasseh and Amon, but sadly they excel in evil like King Ahaz before them. 2 Chronicles 31 - 1:17 . 2 Chronicles 32 - 6:17 . 2 Chronicles 33 - 14:51 . Isaiah 10:1-19 - 20:25 .  :::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

Paul continues to admonish the Ephesian church to live a new life in Christ, a life that is distinct from the rest of the world. The Christian ought not to partner with those who are disobedient. Instead of walking in their darkness, as we once all formerly walked, we should instead walk as children of light. To do this, we must pay attention to our daily walk, growing in our understanding of the Lord's will, giving thanks to God, submitting to one another in the fear of Christ. Continuing in this line of distinctive thinking, Paul goes on to say that a husband and his wife are to reflect the relationship between Christ and the church, as the husband should love his wife as himself and the wife should respect her husband. :::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 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 - 1:06 . Micah 6 - 4:11 . Micah 7 - 8:46 . Psalm 135 - 13:50 . Psalm 136 - 16:29 .  :::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 we read about King Ahaz, one of the most evil and unfaithful kings in Judah's history. He not only worshipped other gods, but sacrificed his children to them ass an act of pagan worship. When his son Hezekiah comes to power, he literally cleans house, restoring the temple of the Lord so that all Israel could be called back to worship the God of their ancestors. The priests and the Levites are called upon to consecrate themselves for worship, and they do everything by the book. When the temple has been made ready, they celebrate the Passover early because the people had not done so in a long time. Scripture records that nothing like this has happened since the days of King Solomon.2 Chronicles 29 - 1:11 . 2 Chronicles 30 - 9:59 . Isaiah 9 - 16:40 .  :::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

If you're a part of a healthy church, you know that unity and fellowship is God's good gift to the saints, but that gift doesn't come without effort. Paul urges the Ephesian church to make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. This kind of work doesn't fall only to those who have titles within the church; the ascended Christ has blessed the whole church with gifts of varying kinds to strengthen and equip the entire church body for the work of ministry. In Christ, we are to put off the old self which is corrupted by deceitful desires, so that we can be renewed in the spirit of our minds, and put on the new self which is created in Christ's likeness. :::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

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 - 1:06 . Micah 2 - 4:27 . Micah 3 - 8:20 . Micah 4 - 10:58 . Psalm 134 - 14:35 . Psalm 135 - 15:01 .  :::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, we considered the life of King Joash, the baby heir to the throne who was rescued and brought to kingship by Jehoiada the priest. Joash abandoned the Lord's temple, and was later assassinated. The next four kings continue this lineage. Amaziah begins well, but surprisingly turns to worship the idols of those he has defeated, and soon thereafter becomes overconfident. Amaziah's son, Uzziah, also begins well, but he, too, becomes overconfident, and acts unfaithfully by offering incense in the Lord's temple, a role that is reserved only for priests. Next, Jotham's reign is pretty quiet, as he did not waver in obeying the Lord. Finally, King Ahaz sells out to other countries and other gods and is invaded by Tiglath-Pileser.2 Chronicles 25 - 1:11 . 2 Chronicles 26 - 8:18 . 2 Chronicles 27 – 13:30 . 2 Chronicles 28 - 15:56 . Isaiah 8 - 22:04 .  :::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

Here in chapter 3, Paul uses the word “mystery” again and again, so be gracious and allow me to reveal and clarify what the word mystery means in this sense. We often to refer to that which is unknown to be a mystery, but that's only a partial definition. Technically, a mystery is something that was once hidden but is now revealed. In this case, the mystery is that God's plan was to redeem both Israel and the rest of the world through the Messiah, a plan that was once hidden but has now been revealed. Paul has been given the task of preaching the incalculable riches of Christ to the Gentiles, so that God's wisdom and power might be displayed through the church. :::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 begin today's reading with a brief historical account from the book of 2 Chronicles covering the reign of Uzziah's son, King Jotham of Judah, before jumping back into Isaiah. Isaiah chapter 9 begins a prophecy about the birth of the Prince of Peace, a passage that many of us read in our church services during Advent or Christmas. In stark contrast, Isaiah moves on to consider the coming of Assyria, the instrument of God's wrath against his people. Remember that earlier in our reading plan, God's covenant at Mount Sinai with the people of Israel came with abundant blessings through obedience, or with dreadful curses for ignoring God's statutes. In chapter 11, Isaiah prophesies of a shoot that will grow from the stump of Jesse, pointing both to the judgment of God against Israel and a Messianic promise. 2 Chronicles 27 - 1:06 . Isaiah 9 - 2:55 . Isaiah 10 - 7:44 . Isaiah 11 - 15:05 . Isaiah 12 - 18:34 . Psalm 133 - 19:58 .  :::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 we covered the life of King Jehoshaphat who was faithful to the Lord, but in today's episode we witness the beginning of the end for the kings of Judah. Jehoshaphat's son, King Jehoram is straight-up Je-horrible and when he dies from a horrific intestinal disease, Scripture records that he “died to no one's regret.” Sounds like a great epitaph for a tombstone doesn't it? His son, Jehoahaz, whom we should note is mainly called Ahaziah, takes the throne after him for only one year before he is killed. After his death, his mother Athaliah goes on a killing spree in order to take the throne, but an heir to the throne is waiting undercover to take back the kingdom.2 Chronicles 21 - 1:08 . 2 Chronicles 22 - 5:31 . 2 Chronicles 23 - 9:20 . 2 Chronicles 24 - 14:53 . Isaiah 7 - 21:18 .  :::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

Most of us do not like to think about death, especially when we think about our own death. While all men will die one day in the future, Paul turns this concept on its head by saying that all men start off as dead men. In this case, however, they are spiritually dead. In his extravagant grace and mercy, God, who is very much alive, brings lifeless souls to new life in Christ. Paul goes out of his way to say that it is by grace we have been saved, through faith and not of works. In other words, you are saved because what a living God has done for us, and not for what we have done for God. This is true both for Jews and for Gentiles. Under Christ, we are united as one, and he has reconciled all men under the headship of Jesus. :::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

Recall from our last episode that Amos is a blue collar guy who was sent from Judah to prophesy against Israel. During a time of wealth, the rich had grown greedy, proud, and complacent, assuming that no harm could befall them. In their pride, they failed to consider the Lord, righteous conduct, or just dealings, opting instead to oppress those of lower status and lounge in luxury. Through Amos, the Lord calls Israel to live a life of justice and righteousness, but because they are hard of heart, the Lord's justice will pour out from upon those who have profaned God's holy name.Amos 6 - 1:06 . Amos 7 - 3:58 . Amos 8 - 8:19 . Amos 9 - 11:08 . Psalm 131 - 14:51 . Psalm 132 - 15:32 .  :::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

At the end of our last episode we were introduced to Asa's son, King Jehoshaphat, and today we'll read further accounts of his life. Jehoshaphat instituted a plan to educate Judah in the ways of the Lord, sending officials and priests out with the book of the Lord's instruction. Remember that Asa failed to call upon the name of the Lord when there was threat of war, but by contrast, Jehoshaphat regularly calls upon the Lord throughout this narrative. Each time Jehoshaphat humbles himself and prays or calls a prophet to inquire of the Lord, the Lord is gracious and delivers him from trouble, blessing Judah with riches and peace.2 Chronicles 18 - 1:09 . 2 Chronicles 19 - 9:29 . 2 Chronicles 20 - 12:08 . Isaiah 6 - 21:36 .  :::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

After a standard greeting to the church at Ephesus, Paul seems to overflow with joy and thanksgiving over the rich blessings of God offered to the believer through the gospel. The entire passage seems to effervesce with gratitude and jubilant praise. Notice, too, how much of this is centered on Christ and on God the Father. God is the main actor of the passage; in other words, it is God's work for God's glory. We'll hear the phrase “in Him” repeatedly, and three members of the triune Godhead are present. This God of power, glory, and honor has subjected everything under Christ's feet, and has appointed Christ as head over everything for the church. :::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

Amos was a prophet from Judah who travelled away from his homeland to prophesy against Israel. As his introduction states, Amos was a shepherd by trade, but he received instruction from the Lord to go north to Samaria around 760 BC. It was a time of great prosperity for Israel, but many farmers had been reduced to poverty. The wealthy gave them loans that they could not repay, forcing these debtors into slavery whereby the aristocrats seized their lands. They felt that their city walls and citadels would keep them safe and secure from danger, but the God of Israel sees all and will exact justice on those who have neglected his statutes.Amos 1 - 1:03 . Amos 2 - 4:11 . Amos 3 - 7:21 . Amos 4 - 11:09 . Amos 5 - 14:07 . Psalm 130 - 19:13 .  :::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

Our reading today examines the lives of two descendants of David who each reigned as king over Israel. First: Abijah, who reigned for only 3 years, but who made an impassioned speech against Israel's king Jeroboam, warning him that he should not wage war against the Lord and those who serve Him. Abijah's son Asa takes the throne after him, and Asa devotes himself to the Lord for most of his life. The Lord rewards Asa's faithfulness by blessing the nation of Judah with a long period of peace. When the threat of war finally becomes immanent, Asa fails to consult the Lord, and instead turns towards another king for help. 2 Chronicles 13 - 1:13 . 2 Chronicles 14 - 5:59 . 2 Chronicles 15 - 10:10 . 2 Chronicles 16 - 13:29 . 2 Chronicles 17 - 16:34 . Isaiah 5 - 19:52 .  :::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

At the end of Colossians, Paul mentioned a man named Onesimus as a beloved brother in the work of ministry. This brother, Onesimus, was a slave to Philemon, and Paul writes to Philemon to ask if he could be freed. Many in slavery in this day and age were enslaved voluntarily as means by which they could repay debt. Once that debt was paid or the years of service to which they agreed came to an end, that person would be freed. Onesimus had been helping Paul, presumably by helping him to get what he needs to survive. Paul treats both Philemon and Onesimus as equals and brothers in Christ, and doesn't condescend to either. As such, Paul wants to repay whatever might be owed to Philemon so that he is justly compensated. :::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 signs, visions, and prophecies included into today's reading span from the death of King Uzziah into the beginning of Ahaz's reign, who continues the lineage of Davidic kings. In chapter 6 we get an awe-inspiring sneak peek into the throne room of God. Isaiah senses that he is unfit to be in God's presence, but an angel approaches to cleanse him in a unique way. After this, the Lord God commissions Isaiah to be his messenger. In chapter 7, Isaiah prophesies to King Ahaz of a virgin who conceive and give birth to a son and name him Immanuel. This prophecy had an immediate fulfillment, as a statement about the amount of time which would pass between then and the invasion of the Assyrian king, but it has it's ultimate fulfillment in the birth of Christ.Isaiah 6 - 1:06 . Isaiah 7 - 4:16 . Isaiah 8 - 9:44 . Psalm 128 - 14:10 . Psalm 129 - 15:00 .  :::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

Worship at the new temple has been established and the people of Israel begin to worship the Lord with renewed vigor and zeal. The Lord honors their worship and continues to love His people by providing for them and protecting them. King Solomon's wisdom and wealth become known across the ancient world, and royalty from nearby nations come to seek his counsel and insight. Ironically, Solomon's wisdom is not passed on to his son, Rehoboam, as one of his first decrees runs in direct contradiction to the council of elders. By trusting his friends more than the advice of wise men with experience, Rehoboam serves as a catalyst for division.2 Chronicles 9 - 1:09 . 2 Chronicles 10 - 8:09 . 2 Chronicles 11 - 12:04 . 2 Chronicles 12 - 16:15 . Isaiah 3 - 19:49 . Isaiah 4 - 23:55 .  :::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

Paul's letter to the church at Colossae concludes with admonition to speak with God regularly in prayer, and to speak graciously with others, acting wisely toward outsiders who do not yet know the mystery of Christ revealed through his gospel. After this, he includes a summary about the ministry of the gospel being performed through other faithful men. These include Tychicus and Onesimus who are delivering the letter, Aristarchus, who is also in prison with Paul, as well as Mark, Barnabas, Justus, Epaphras, Luke the physician who wrote the gospel of Luke and Acts. On a technical note, we'll actually be picking up at verse 2 since chapter 4:1 was covered in our last episode. :::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

Judah has made the mistake of trusting in the armies of men, rather than trusting in God. As such is the case, the Lord God of armies will be removing every kind of security from Judah, which includes some securities which would be considered blessings from God, and some securities which would have been sinful and earthly. The righteous will eat the fruit of their labor, but the wick will only harvest judgment. Even in this bleak forecast, the Lord proclaims that those who survive will see the beautiful and glorious Branch of the Lord. Later, Isaiah writes a song about a vineyard that yields worthless grapes as a parallel to Jerusalem and Judah. Isaiah 3 - 1:05 . Isaiah 4 - 5:14 . Isaiah 5 - 7:21 . Psalm 126 - 14:02 . Psalm 127 - 15:00 .  :::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

Solomon has finished the work of building the temple and the ark of the covenant is now in the newly constructed room known as the most holy place. The priests have consecrated themselves and will worship the Lord through music. Solomon prays to the Lord before the nation of Israel, asking God to hear their prayers, reminding the people through his prayer that God resides in heaven, and is not confined to the walls of the temple. At the conclusion of his prayer, the temple fills with a cloud and with the Lord's glory to such a degree that the priests are not able to continue ministering. The Lord responds to Solomon by reaffirming his commitment to David's lineage so long as they are faithful to His statutes.2 Chronicles 6 - 1:08 . 2 Chronicles 7 - 10:50 . 2 Chronicles 8 - 16:47 . Isaiah 2 - 20:22 .  :::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

Paul has positioned Christ rightly as the one who is before all things, and in whom all things hold together. All things were created by him, through him, and for him. This same Christ humbled himself to death on a cross so that our debt our sin might be canceled. In doing so, he disarmed the rulers and authorities and disgraced them publicly, triumphing over them. With this as his preface, Paul tells the church to seek the things that are above, where Christ is, who rests in victory and in authority at the right hand of God. This means putting to death what belongs to our earthly nature, and putting on that which reflects Christ and his gospel of forgiveness and renewal. On a technical note, we'll actually be reading up until chapter 4 verse 1 as it completes Paul's thought. :::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 far in our chronological reading we've read two of the minor prophets, those being Obadiah and Jonah, and in today's episode we'll begin to read from our first major prophet, the prophet Isaiah. If you're familiar with the overall arch of Israel, Judah, and the prophets, you know that there were prophets before, during, and after the exile to Babylon. Starting with this episode, the majority of our reading for the rest of the year will be from the major and minor prophets with sections from history books interspersed as history moves along. Today we'll learn about King Uzziah of Judah from 2 Chronicles, where we are also briefly introduced to Isaiah before proceeding to the first two chapters of that book.2 Chronicles 26 - 1:06 . Isaiah 1 - 8:07 . Isaiah 2 - 15:16 . Psalm 124 - 19:34 . Psalm 125 - 20:27 .  :::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 this episode, we're going straight into Job 1:9–10—a conversation so ancient and cosmic it still rattles the gates of spiritual warfare today.Why do some Christians mock the phrase "hedge of protection"? Is it outdated? Harmless? Or is something more sinister at play when we joke about what Satan himself takes seriously?Whether you've heard this phrase in prayer circles or mocked on stage, today's deep dive will challenge you to rethink your posture toward spiritual boundaries, bold prayer, and the unseen war around you.

We're back in the Old Testament with 2 Chronicles which is the second book of a four book series which includes 1 & 2 Chronicles along with Ezra and Nehemiah. Combined, they make up a historical account of God's people starting with Adam and ending with the return to Jerusalem from their exile in Babylon. It's likely that Ezra is the author of all four and the one responsible for compiling the material, but we don't know for sure. Here in the second book of Chronicles we begin with the rule of Solomon, son of King David, who has been given authority as king by God's special decree. Later, we'll begin reading Isaiah, and in chapter 1 you'll notice a stark contrast between worship at the temple's beginning and worship in the temple's latter days.2 Chronicles 1 - 1:08 . 2 Chronicles 2 - 4:34 . 2 Chronicles 3 - 9:48 . 2 Chronicles 4 - 12:46 . 2 Chronicles 5 - 16:24 . Isaiah 1 - 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

Having reminded the church of the preeminent Christ, He who is before all things and in whom all things hold together, Paul moves on to consider how false teachers compare to him. All treasures of wisdom and knowledge are to be found in this Christ, which means that mere men cannot teach anything that would be new or unknown to the Lord. It is the gospel of Christ that has saved them and cancelled their debts, and no new teaching can compare with this glorious reality. Rather than trusting in empty philosophies or submitting to regulations that bring unwarranted harm or neglect to the body, Paul wants the church to trust in Christ, in whom they are dead to the elements of this world. :::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

You might have missed it, but in our last episode, the writer of 2 Kings mentioned the fulfillment of prophecy through the prophet Jonah back in chapter 14. We have every reason to conclude that this prophet is the same Jonah sent to Ninevah in the minor prophet book by the same name. Instead of obeying the Lord, Jonah turns to go in the completely opposite direction. As you hear this account, keep in mind that in the end it is most likely that Jonah is the one recording what happened, revealing that he eventually became aware of his hard-hearted response. We'll end the episode with a single chapter from 2 Kings and two short Psalms.Jonah 1 - 1:06 . Jonah 2 - 4:55 . Jonah 3 - 6:51 . Jonah 4 - 8:54 . 2 Kings 15 - 11:29 . Psalm 122 - 18:53 . Psalm 123 - 20:00 .  :::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

Today, Paul begins to speak of the nature of the body of Christ and the diversity of spiritual gifts within it. Just as a physical body is made of many parts that are united together, Paul teaches that the church should be united in love and put away childish divisions, otherwise their flashy spiritual gifts are absolute rubbish. He goes on to encourage the church to desire the gifts that build up the body over-and-above the gift of speaking in tongues. Before concluding with instructions for the church, Paul argues with those who say there is no resurrection, contending that without resurrection our faith in Christ is utter foolishness.1 Corinthians 12 - 1:17 . 1 Corinthians 13 - 5:48 . 1 Corinthians 14 - 9:05 . 1 Corinthians 15 - 15:30 . 1 Corinthians 16 - 25:02 . Psalm 112 - 28:10 . Psalm 113 - 29:30 .  :::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

Paul writes to the church at Colossae from prison to correct false teaching and encourage the church to trust in Christ fully as Lord. In this first chapter he presents Jesus as supreme and preeminent over all of Creation. He is the firstborn, meaning he is the one inherits all things from the Father and that He comes first before anyone else and before anything else. This same powerful and authoritative Jesus is also the head of the church. Though we were alienated from God and hostile to him, he has reconciled us unto God through his gospel. Finally, Paul speaks about the goal of his ministry, saying that he aims to present everyone mature in Christ. With such a goal in mind, Paul is willing to suffer as a servant of the church. :::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 considered the life of King Joash, the baby heir to the throne who was rescued from a maniacal monarch, raised in the temple, and brought to kingship by Jehoiada the priest. Joash began by rebuilding the Lord's temple, then he abandons both the Lord's temple and the Lord. The Lord therefore abandons him and he is later assassinated. Amaziah begins well, but surprisingly turns to worship the idols of those he has defeated, and soon thereafter becomes overconfident, challenging Israel to war. In our reading from 2 Kings we'll encounter a few Israelite kings who ruled Israel during Amaziah's reign, including Jehoash who plunders Jerusalem after being provoked by Amaziah.2 Chronicles 25 - 1:07 . 2 Kings 14 - 8:35 . Psalm 120 - 14:42 . Psalm 121 - 15:29 .  :::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

Well, if you didn't learn it from our time in Songs of Songs, let's just be clear: God is pro-marriage and pro-sex. He created intimacy for the good of mankind so that a husband and wife might enjoy one another to the glory of God. The blessing of marital intimacy should be protected from the many ways that mankind distorts it for selfish gratification. The Corinthian church was recovering from a twisted, worldly sexual ethic, and Paul wants them to know how they might use their freedom in Christ rightly, whether married or unmarried. Paul continues this train of thought about freedom to talk about how one should use their Christian freedom and knowledge for the benefit of others, and not for themselves.1 Corinthians 7 - 1:12 . 1 Corinthians 8 - 9:00 . 1 Corinthians 9 - 11:21 . 1 Corinthians 10 - 17:20 . 1 Corinthians 11 - 22:21 . Psalm 111 - 27:53 .  :::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

We have reached the final chapter of the Gospel of John, wherein John reveals some of the events that took place following the resurrection of Jesus. In our last episode, the disciples discovered that Jesus had risen from the dead. He has presented himself to them on a couple of occasions already, but in today's episode, Jesus appears to them on the shore of the Sea of Tiberius where has breakfast with the disciples. You may recall that Peter had denied Jesus three times, before the crucifixion. Christ takes this opportunity to restore Peter threefold, giving him the commendation to feed and shepherd his sheep. Finally, John caps his account with a personal and thoughtful conclusion about the ministry of Jesus. :::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

Interestingly, we saw a few foreshadows of Jesus in our last episode, as a child who was meant to be king was swept away from a murderous monarch only to emerge victorious later. Today we'll examine the rule and reign of Joash, that child who became king of Judah. It seems that early in his reign he sought to repair the temple, and no wonder! He grew up in the temple from infancy into early childhood. When the work stalls, the make a plan, but later, the wealth of Judah will be handed over to King Hazael, that same servant who murdered his king after Elisha prophesied would rule over Aram. Later, in 2 Kings, we'll briefly cover two of Israel's evil kings, Jehoahaz and Jehoahash. 2 Chronicles 24 - 1:08 . 2 Kings 12 - 7:27 . 2 Kings 13 - 12:34 . Psalm 119:161 - 18:47 .  :::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

Paul wants the Corinthian church to live under the lordship of Jesus Christ. Divisions had already begun among the church at Corinth, and as we'll see in these first few chapters, some of the division came because believers began attributing themselves to mere men. Paul directs them to boast, not in the teachers they follow, but in Christ and Him crucified. In other words, “let one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” The cross is foolishness to the world, but to those who are being saved, it is the power of Almighty God. The apostles weren't to be placed on pedestals, but they were to be looked to as examples of humility.1 Corinthians 1 - 1:07 . 1 Corinthians 2 - 6:19 . 1 Corinthians 3 - 9:52 . 1 Corinthians 4 - 13:31 . 1 Corinthians 5 - 18:24 . 1 Corinthians 6 - 20:56 . Psalm 110 - 24:57 .  :::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

Israel has taken the lavish blessings of their God and given those gifts to the calf idols of Baal, turning away from the covenant love of the God who redeemed them and turning to love other gods. Therefore, the Lord will discipline his people for their rebellion. Through Hosea, God remarks that he raised Israel like a father raises children, lamenting the calamity that will come upon them, promising that He will not release His full wrath upon them. The book of Hosea ends with a call to repentance. If God's people will turn back to Him, they will flourish once again.Hosea 8 - 1:11 . Hosea 9 - 3:53 . Hosea 10 - 8:36 . Hosea 11 - 12:06 . Hosea 12 - 15:45 . Hosea 13 - 18:14 . Hosea 14 - 21:29 . Psalm 109 - 23:50 .  :::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

Today's reading is John 19-21. . . . . This month, we will be reading from the ⁠Christian Standard Bible.⁠ . . . . Your ratings and reviews help us spread the Gospel to new friends! If you love this podcast, ⁠⁠⁠rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts and leave us a brief review⁠⁠⁠! You can do the same on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not much is known about the prophet Hosea, save what is mentioned in this record of his prophecies. By referencing the Kings under which he prophesied, we can see that his ministry lasted around 40 years. Like Amos, Hosea spoke to the nation of Israel, often referenced as “Ephraim” in this book, under a time of lavish wealth and disparate poverty. Israel was being unfaithful to their God, and like the unfaithful nation the Lord has committed himself to love, Hosea is commanded to marry an unfaithful woman. Hosea's pursuit of his unfaithful wife serves as a parallel to God's pursuit of unfaithful Israel.  :::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's reading is John 16-18. . . . . This month, we will be reading from the ⁠Christian Standard Bible.⁠ . . . . Your ratings and reviews help us spread the Gospel to new friends! If you love this podcast, ⁠⁠⁠rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts and leave us a brief review⁠⁠⁠! You can do the same on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the book of 1 Chronicles comes to a close we're given a look at an assembly of all the leaders of Israel. In this gather, David gives glory to God for his many blessings, and charges Solomon to build the Lord's temple. In so doing, he also makes it clear that, of his many sons, Solomon is to become king, appointed by the Lord God Himself. He passes the plans for the temple on to Solomon and declares that he will be giving his riches to the work of building this place of worship. The leaders and the people of Israel follow suit, and together they amass a great stockpile of wealth. David has dedicated his all to the temple.1 Chronicles 27 - 1:12 . 1 Chronicles 28 - 7:15 . 1 Chronicles 29 - 12:35 . Psalm 107 - 21:04 .  :::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

Today's reading is John 13-15. . . . . This month, we will be reading from the ⁠Christian Standard Bible.⁠ . . . . Your ratings and reviews help us spread the Gospel to new friends! If you love this podcast, ⁠⁠⁠rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts and leave us a brief review⁠⁠⁠! You can do the same on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his latter days, David charges his son Solomon to build the temple for the worship of God, and we get a few new details. First, we learn that the Lord did not allow David to build the temple because his hands had shed so much blood and because he had waged great wars. We also realize that David looked forward to the building of the temple even though he himself couldn't build it, charging his son with the task and spending his own time and resources to create a stockpile for the project. David also assigns duties and tasks for the Levite priests before he dies, paving the way for transition from the tabernacle to the temple once Solomon becomes king.1 Chronicles 20 - 1:13 . 1 Chronicles 21 - 2:59 . 1 Chronicles 22 - 9:12 . 1 Chronicles 23 - 14:08 . Song of Songs 5 - 19:09 . Song of Songs 6 - 22:23 .  :::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's reading is John 10-12. . . . . This month, we will be reading from the ⁠Christian Standard Bible.⁠ . . . . Your ratings and reviews help us spread the Gospel to new friends! If you love this podcast, ⁠⁠⁠rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts and leave us a brief review⁠⁠⁠! You can do the same on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's reading is John 7-9. . . . . This month, we will be reading from the ⁠Christian Standard Bible.⁠ . . . . Your ratings and reviews help us spread the Gospel to new friends! If you love this podcast, ⁠⁠⁠rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts and leave us a brief review⁠⁠⁠! You can do the same on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's reading is John 4-6. . . . . This month, we will be reading from the ⁠Christian Standard Bible.⁠ . . . . Your ratings and reviews help us spread the Gospel to new friends! If you love this podcast, ⁠⁠⁠rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts and leave us a brief review⁠⁠⁠! You can do the same on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices