Podcasts about Christian Standard Bible

Sometimes when you're watching a serial drama on Netflix they'll take an episode to tell a back-story or a spin-off from the main story to give context to the overall narrative. That's exactly what's happening in today's passage. The king of Moab, whose name is Balak, hires a man named Balaam who is some kind of diviner or priest, to put a curse on Israel. As Balaam goes to visit king Balak, the Lord speaks to Balaam using a donkey, and if the Lord can use a donkey to speak to a man, he can certainly use Balaam to prophesy to the king. Though not from the nation of Israel, Balaam faithfully proclaims the Lord's message three times, disregarding the king and his reward. Sadly, by contrast, Israel rushes into idolatry as soon as they can. Numbers 22 – 1:14 .  Numbers 23 – 9:24 .  Numbers 24 – 14:53 .  Numbers 25 – 20:31 .  Psalm 35 – 23:36 . :::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

It seems that Israel simply cannot handle the idea that the Lord would place Moses and Aaron in authority over them. Even after signs and wonders, including those wherein the Lord snuffs out the rebellious, they continue to groan and complain. So today, the Lord decides to put their complaints to rest with a unique sign that will stand as a testimony for generations to come. Later, the people rebel again when there is no water to be found. God instructs Moses to speak to a rock so that it will produce water, demonstrating God's holiness, but Moses fails to trust the Lord's instruction. In so doing, he is told that he and Aaron will not enter the land with the next generation. Numbers 17 - 1:08 .  Numbers 18 - 3:04 .  Numbers 19 - 10:10 .  Numbers 20 - 14:32 .  Numbers 21 – 20:33 .  Psalm 34 - 26:28 .  :::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

Our reading opens with an account of Paul finding some former disciples of John the Baptist who have been baptized by John but have not yet been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. After a brief conversation with Paul they are baptized into the name of Christ and are immediately filled with the Holy Spirit. Paul continues teaching, and after being rejected in the synagogue he begins speaking to both Jews and Greeks in the hall of Tyrannus. He stays there to teach for two years. Later, some Jewish exorcists try to use Jesus' name to expel demons, with surprisingly poor results. Finally, when silversmiths begin to lose money, they start a riot, and it turns out that most of the people involved don't even know what the riot is about. :::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

Our reading begins with instructions for the bread and the oil in the tabernacle, but soon thereafter these instructions are somewhat interrupted by a fight. A young man has blasphemed the Name of God, and instructions are given about what must be done, followed by further instruction for punishment of violent crimes. Later, the Lord explains the institutions of Sabbath years and the year of Jubilee. In short, Israel is to work the ground for six years, then on the seventh year they are to rest. After 49 years (7x7) they are to celebrate a year of Jubilee where debts are canceled, and Hebrew servants are relieved from their indentured service. Leviticus 24 - 1:01 .  Leviticus 25 – 8:40 .  Psalm 48 - 15:21 .  Psalm 49 - 17:08 .  :::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 our last episode, God sent spies into the land of Canaan, the land He promised to give them, but when they saw their foes, they brought back a negative report, and refused to venture onward. Today, God resolves to wipe them out for their rebellion, but Moses intercedes for the people, pleading with God to act with faithful and steadfast love. Instead, God resolves to keep their generation out of the land, promising that their children would inherit it instead. Later, a man named Korah incites a rebellion against Moses, questioning his authority. Armed with the conclusion that the entire community of Israel is holy, he contends that Moses and Aaron have no right to go before the Lord exclusively. Korah and 250 men appear before the Lord, and what happens next is unprecedented. Numbers 14 - 1:14 .  Numbers 15 - 9:30 .  Numbers 16 - 16:26 .  Psalm 33 - 26:20 . :::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

Paul leaves Athens and ventures on to Corinth where he meets Aquila and his wife Priscilla. It's noted that they are tent-makers, which brings up an interesting aspect of Paul's life that we don't often consider. Paul was a tentmaker by trade, and while he often received financial help and contributions, he had a job by which he made a living. Aquila and Priscilla were also tentmakers, so they became fast friends and began working together. After an initial attempt to witness to the Jews in Corinth, Paul turns away from his fellow Hebrews and instead focuses on preaching to the Gentiles. The Corinthian church multiplies under Paul and he stays in the city for a year and a half. At the end of our reading, Paul and his friends venture to Antioch where they meet Apollos. :::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

Moses continues to receive instructions from the Lord, and today's episode begins with instructions for the priests in eating their portion of the sacrifices to the Lord. Recall that the Levites will not be given large portions of land when they enter the Promised Land; instead, the Lord will be their portion. For their service in the tabernacle, they will receive portions of food from the offerings given to the Lord, and thereby be sustained. Or reading continues by considering which sacrifices are acceptable, which days are to be set aside for Sabbaths, and which days are to be set aside for worship, celebration, and remembrance. Leviticus 22 - 1:01 .  Leviticus 23 - 7:57 .  Psalm 47 - 16:38 .  :::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

Just like any family trip to a far away place, everyone starts getting grumpy quick. New questions arise about who may partake of the Passover and who should abstain. After Israel leaves Mount Sinai for the Promised Land they becomes dissatisfied with what the Lord provides, complaining that the food they had in Egypt was better than manna from the Lord. Moses complains to the Lord that these people aren't his babies and he shouldn't have to nurse them. Miriam and Aaron get jealous of the authority given to Moses, and criticize him in order to elevate themselves. Finally, their journey could have been over in almost no time, but instead of confronting their enemies as the Lord had commanded, they cower, complain, and make excuses. Numbers 9 – 1:16 .  Numbers 10 – 5:13 .  Numbers 11 – 10:57 .  Numbers 12 – 18:15 .  Numbers 13 – 21:07 .  Psalm 32 – 25:55 . :::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

Our reading opens with Paul preaching to the Jews on the Sabbath over the course of three weeks in the town Thessalonica. After a bit of unrest, the travel to the town of Berea by night. The Bereans are noted as being of more noble character than the Thessalonians, receiving the word with eagerness and examining the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul was saying was true. The Thessalonians catch wind of Paul's location and come to town to start trouble again. He moves on to Athens, where he gives his famous sermon at the Areopagus, a place where the Athenian people discussed new teachings and new ideas. :::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

Our passage today begins with an appeal to Israel to be holy before their holy God, using some of the Ten Commandments as bullet points for discussion. As we read, you'll notice that there is to be an “otherness” amongst the Israelites that makes them distinct from the rest of the world. To our modern ears and worldview, it may seem limiting or perhaps cruel that the Lord would be so particular, but every instance is designed to connote elements of purity, wholeness, unity, and devotion to the Lord. In their worship to God, only the best would do, and anything offered that fell short was an insinuation that God was not worthy of the best they could offer. Leviticus 19 - 1:10 .  Leviticus 20 - 7:54 .  Leviticus 21 - 14:15 .  Psalm 46 - 18:12 .  :::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 continuing in the book of Numbers today, which has a reputation for putting people off both because of the title and because the first seven chapters (or so) contain a good bit of repetition. You'll experience some of that today, and if you want to put me on 2x speed for that section, I won't judge! This repetition is intentional, however. Think of it: they didn't have a copy/paste function for papyrus or scrolls, so they would've been required to hand copy everything we're reading today. These handwritten details would have also been read aloud, and would have impressed upon the hearer that God had provided for the Israelites lavishly. Numbers 5 - 1:09 .  Numbers 6 - 6:46 .  Numbers 7 - 10:55 .  Numbers 8 - 22:47 .  Psalm 31 - 26:51 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Paul has left Jerusalem after conferring with other apostles and elders about giving instructions for the new Gentiles believers. Having delivered instructions to them in Antioch, Paul and Silas return to Lystra (where Paul was almost stoned to death) to visit the growing church, and while there, they pick up a young man named Timothy who continues on with them. This is the same Timothy to whom Paul later writes the books of 1 & 2 Timothy. They also pick up Luke, our narrator, along the way, which can be noted when he changes from third person plural to first person plural. Later, a slave girl is delivered from demonic possession, which means her owners can no longer profit from her fortune-telling. They rile up the crowd, beat Paul and Silas with rods, and throw them in jail, but the Lord has other plans for them and for their jailer. :::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 continuing to read through the Levitical law that was given to Moses and Aaron. These were the statutes, ordinances, and observances commanded by the Lord that Israel must keep in order to maintain the covenant. God Almighty, who is perfect in holiness, is to dwell among them. Since man is imperfect, God is giving this law as a means for them to be justified before him. By humble obedience to the Lord, they could stay within the camp of Israel and be blessed by the presence of God. Today's reading covers the day of atonement, a non-exhaustive list of forbidden sacrifices, the consequences of eating blood, the prohibition of pagan practices, and the prohibition of sexual perversions. Leviticus 16 - 1:01 .  Leviticus 17 - 8:45 .  Leviticus 18 - 11:49 . Psalm 45 - 16:42 .  :::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

Numbers are boring, right? I mean, who gets excited about counting things? Well, did you ever count your Christmas presents as a kid? Have you ever memorized the stats of your favorite athletes, or checked the number of likes on a post, or rejoiced over the number of people confessing Christ through the work a missionary? The numbers presented in these first few chapters may seem boring to us, but they represent the faithfulness of God to Israel. And don't worry, the title of this book is a little misleading; while it opens with counting heads, it gets more exciting in coming chapters. Numbers 1 - 1:13 .  Numbers 2 - 8:56 .  Numbers 3 - 13:25 .  Numbers 4 - 21:20 .  Psalm 30 - 29:07 .  :::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

At this point in our reading of Acts, it has become clear that the Gentiles are welcomed by God Himself into this burgeoning body of Christ followers known as the church. The Gentiles did not have Abraham as their father and were not originally part of the Jewish community, which raises the question: should they be required to abide by the customs of God's covenant with Israel? The apostles and elders of the early church discuss two important factors: 1) The Spirit has been freely given to the Gentiles without distinction, 2) it was prophesied that David's fallen tent would be rebuilt so that all humanity may seek the Lord. Their advice includes abstaining from certain freedoms as well as abstaining from the sin of sexual immorality. Later, Paul and Barnabas amiably part ways and continue preaching. :::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 continuing to work our way through the Levitical law concerning those occasions where one is considered clean and where one is considered unclean. As mentioned previously, to be unclean is not to be equated necessarily with being immoral or sinful. To be unclean simply means that one may not enter the camp of Israel, a people who were set apart for the Lord. These intermissions of uncleanness and the procedures required to be declared clean once again would have served as a perpetual reminder to Israel that they belonged to the Lord God. Leviticus 14 - 1:01 .  Leviticus 15 - 11:11 .  Psalm 44 - 17:11 .  :::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

The author of Hebrews continues to reference Old Testament Scripture to make a defense for the superiority of Christ over all things. The earthly tabernacle is but a shadow of the heavens, where Christ serves as great high priest. He has made a superior sacrifice, shedding His own blood rather than that of goats, bulls, or rams. He oversees a new covenant, where the law is written on the hearts and minds of those who trust in Him. Men and women of faith who came before Him were waiting for the promise of His coming. In Him, we haven't come to Mt Sinai, but Mount Zion, where Christ intercedes on our behalf. Hebrews 10 - 1:15 .  Hebrews 11 - 8:02 .  Hebrews 12 - 16:13 .  Hebrews 13 - 21:58 .  Psalm 28 - 26:18 .  Psalm 29 - 27:51 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Barnabus and Paul are on a missionary journey together, traveling through towns in the Roman empire to tell others the good news of Jesus Christ. They have just left Antioch of Pisidia where they preached Christ in a Jewish synagogue, and while many of the people received them warmly, the Jewish community at large was displeased and expelled them from their district. Today, Barnabus and Paul visit Iconium where the Lord performs signs and wonders through them. When they discover some have plans to stone them, they flee to Lystra. There, a man who is unable stand is healed, and the crowds declare our missionaries to be Greek gods in human form. Jews come from the previous two towns and successfully stone Paul, but escapes death and continues preaching the gospel. :::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 part of their covenant with the Lord, the Israelites were given regulations concerning what is considered clean and unclean. At times this is a means of health and well-being. At other times it serves as a distinction from surrounding nations. The term “unclean” doesn't necessarily mean those things are dirty, germ-infested, or immoral, though some of them certainly are. It does mean these things are all ceremonially unclean. This is how Israel is to be set-apart from other nations and given fully to the Lord. These regulations would have made Israel a distinct people on the earth, reminding God's people and displaying for the nations that they were fully devoted to the Lord. Leviticus 11:24-47 – 1:05 . Leviticus 12 - 5:01 .  Leviticus 13 - 7:18 .  Psalm 43 - 19:32 .  :::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

How can Jesus be our great high priest if he is from the tribe of Judah rather than the tribe of Levi? The writer of Hebrews quotes Psalm 110 and explains that Jesus is a better high priest, because unlike mere mortal men, he is unstained by sin and unconstrained by death. Additionally, while the earthly high priest had to enter the most holy place in the tabernacle year after year, Jesus has entered the heavens and is seated at the right hand of God Most High, his sacrifice finished once and for all. As a side note, if you'd like a refresher on the original account of Melchizedek, you can go back and listen to Genesis 14, found in episode 4 of Commuter Bible. Hebrews 6 – 1:10 .  Hebrews 7 – 4:23 .  Hebrews 8 – 9:33 .  Hebrews 9 – 12:14 .  Psalm 26 – 18:17 .  Psalm 27 – 19:42 . :::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, we concluded midway through Paul's sermon at a synagogue in Antioch of Pisidia. Attending the synagogue on the Sabbath, the two men sat down only to be addressed by the leaders, asking if they had any word of encouragement. Today, he continues that sermon and at its conclusion it's clear that his teaching has gained an audience. When he returns to teach on the following Sabbath, the whole town shows up to hear him. The Jews in Antioch are displeased with his popularity and begin to contradict and insult him. When Paul mentions that they are turning to the Gentiles with their message of salvation, the crowd rejoices and the good news continues to spread. :::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 Lord has been giving explicit instructions to Moses and Aaron concerning the manner in which he should be worshipped. In our reading today, the priestly ministry of the Levites begins when Aaron faithfully executes the burnt offering, sin offerings, and fellowship sacrifices. When he is finished, the glory of the Lord appears to all the people and fire comes from heaven to consume the offerings. Sadly, Aaron's sons decide to offer sacrifices as they see fit, rather than following the Lord's instructions. Their ingenuity earns God's wrath, and fire comes from the Lord once again, only this time it doesn't consume the sacrifice. Leviticus 8 - 1:02 .  Leviticus 9 - 7:40 .  Leviticus 10 -  11:56 .  Leviticus 11 - 16:33 .  Psalm 42 - 19:23 .  :::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

Now that we've completed the book of Leviticus, we're jumping into the book of Hebrews, a book that emphasizes Jesus' role as a better great high priest and a better Sabbath. While the writer of the book of Hebrews remains unknown, we do know that this writer can quote the Old Testament Scriptures at length and is very polished in his ability to write and to reason. This letter is unique, as it has no greeting and seems to be directed specifically toward Jewish believers. In today's passage, the writer argues that Jesus is greater than angels, greater than Moses, a better rest than the Sabbath day, and a better high priest. Hebrews 1 - 1:13 .  Hebrews 2 - 3:54 .  Hebrews 3 - 8:05 .  Hebrews 4 - 11:03 .  Hebrews 5 - 14:25 .  Psalm 24 - 17:00 .  Psalm 25 - 18:32 . :::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

Barnabus and Saul are about to be set apart for the work of spreading the gospel to other lands. If you've ever ventured into the back of your printed Bible you're likely to find a map of Paul's first missionary journey. That journey begins today. Saul is first called Paul in today's chapter, and is referred to by that name from here on. Sent by the Holy Spirit, Paul and Barnabus travel to varying cities proclaiming the gospel in Jewish synagogues. At Paphos, they witness to the proconsul, but a Jewish false-prophet who works for the proconsul tries to dissuade him from believing their message. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Paul rebukes him and the man is miraculously blinded. Our episode concludes midway through one of Paul's sermons to fellow Israelites in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch. :::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 you continue to listen to these instructions on sacrifices, I encourage you to imagine what it would be like to be present for these sacrifices and experience them first-hand. The warmth of a live animal and the feel of coarse hair under your hand as the animal is slaughtered for the sin that you have committed. Imagine the smell of incense, baked bread and roasted meat. There's even more symbolism to be found in chapters to come, but even here we see glimpses of Christ and of God's provision for salvation and atonement. It all communicates something deeper about the gravity of sin and the graciousness of God toward those who seek forgiveness. Leviticus 5 - 1:00 .  Leviticus 6 - 6:17 .  Leviticus 7 - 12:22 .  Psalm 41 - 18:22 .  :::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 time in Leviticus comes to a close today, as the Lord explains the institutions of Sabbath years and the year of Jubilee. Israel is to work the ground for six years, then on the seventh year they are to rest. After 49 years (7x7) they are to celebrate a year of Jubilee where debts are cancelled and Hebrew servants relieved from their service. Finally, if Israel fails to observe the Lord's commands, they will be cut off from the Lord, and their sacrifices will no longer be pleasing to God. Instead of turning toward the nation of Israel in power and with unmatched favor, the Lord will turn against them in wrath and they will be scattered and overtaken by another nation. Leviticus 25 - 1:19 .  Leviticus 26 - 11:04 .  Leviticus 27 – 19:59 .  Proverbs 20 - 25:31 .  :::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

Our reading today begins with an event that is not described in detail, but which must have been another disheartening blow to the early church. Having recently endured the Sanhedrin's execution of Stephen, they now find themselves at odds with Herod who has executed James the brother of John. James was not only one of the twelve, but one of three disciples who witnessed the transfiguration of Christ. Seeing that it pleased the Jews, Herod arrests Peter also in order to execute him. Though his power is great, it is no match for the power of God Almighty, who has other plans for Peter. :::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 are beginning the book of Leviticus; which basically means, “pertaining to the Levites,” as this book dives deeper into the responsibilities of priests and the divine-human relationship codified on Mount Sinai. The Lord gives Moses instructions for offering different kinds of sacrifices to be made before the Lord, allowing an impure people to be made holy by obedience to a perfect God. We'll look at four kinds of offering today. The burnt offering is given with prayer or praise to seek God's face and favor. The grain offering is generally offered alongside another offering. The fellowship offering emphasizes fellowship with the Lord by having a communion meal. Finally, the sin offering is given to atone for sin that has been committed. Leviticus 1 - 1:00 .  Leviticus 2 - 3:50 .  Leviticus 3 - 7:36 .  Leviticus 4 - 10:23 .  Psalm 40 - 17:04 .  :::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

Moses continues to receive instructions from the Lord, and today's episode begins with instructions on keeping the sacrifices pure and acceptable before the Lord. Consider that Lord does not want Israel to present anything that is second best or impure in anyway, thereby communicating indifference or irreverence for God in His perfection. We'll also consider days set aside for celebration include Sabbaths and feasts, the nature of  punishment for violent crimes, the instructions for the bread of the presence, and the steps for executing the death penalty in a case of blaspheming against the Lord. Leviticus 22 – 1:07 .  Leviticus 23 – 7:25 .  Leviticus 24 – 15:44 .  Proverbs 19 – 19:19 . :::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, Peter received a vision from the Lord in which he was instructed to partake in food that was considered unclean by God's law. He received this vision three times, thus meaning it was sure, holy, and trustworthy. When he came out of the vision, he was instructed by the Spirit to accompany men from Caesarea. In today's text, Peter recounts this vision to men from the circumcision party who are upset that he would eat with men who were considered unclean. The good news of gospel continues to spread to the Greeks, and many believe, turning to the Lord for salvation. :::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

Our time in the book of Exodus comes to a close today, but our journey with Moses and the nation of Israel in the wilderness has just begun. Remember, the book of Exodus is one of five books in a set of books called the Pentateuch and it all tells one continuous narrative. Here in the final two chapters, Israel finishes creating all of the items that would be used in assembling their portable house and temple for God Almighty called the tabernacle. The work on the tabernacle reaches its conclusion, the pieces are assembled, Moses inspects the work to make sure it has all been done to code, and by the end of today's episode the Lord shows up in power. Exodus 39 - 1:01 .  Exodus 40 - 8:33 .  Psalm 38 - 13:56 .  Psalm 39 - 16:54 .  :::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'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

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

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

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

Our passage today begins with an appeal to Israel to be holy before their holy God, using some the Ten Commandments as bullet points for discussion. As we read, you'll notice that there is to be an “otherness” amongst the Israelites that makes them distinct from the rest of the world. To our modern ears and worldview, it may seem limiting or perhaps cruel that the Lord would be so particular, but every instance is designed to connote elements of purity, wholeness, unity, and devotion to the Lord. In their worship to God, only the best would do, and anything offered that fell short was an insinuation that God was not worthy of the best they could offer. Leviticus 19 – 1:11 .  Leviticus 20 – 7:52 .  Leviticus 21 – 14:10 .  Proverbs 18 – 18:03 . :::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

Up until this chapter, the gospel has been preached mainly to the nation of Israel. You may recall, also, that Jesus Himself had taught and healed among God's people, making an exception for the woman who, in response to Christ's prioritization of Israel, said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table. Today, Peter sees a vision in which the Lord simultaneously declares all foods clean AND extends the good of the gospel to Gentiles as well as Jews. While this may be a small thing on this side of Christian history it was an extraordinary revelation to those disciples of Christ in the early 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

Have you ever talked to someone who's really into their work, and they're so excited about it that it seems they just can't stop talking about it? Maybe you've done that with your own work, with a hobby you enjoy, or with stats about your favorite team. To our ears it may seem like the book of Exodus is simply repeating itself, but in actuality it's communicating the excitement, the gravity, and the importance of the tabernacle. God Himself gave instruction to build it, God's covenant people built it, and God Himself would occupy it. That's something worth writing about! Exodus 36 - 1:01 .  Exodus 37 - 7:27 .  Exodus 38 - 12:25 .  Psalm 37 - 17:57 .  :::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'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

We're continuing to look at those actions or objects that make one ceremonially unclean in the Israelite community; sometimes those things are related to infectious diseases, sometimes it is because they are immoral or detestable, but other times they simply represent being set apart for the Lord. Not everything in today's reading has a moral component, it simply means the person can't approach the Lord in the tent of meeting, or that they must be outside the camp. As approach the end of today's reading, however, the Lord makes it clear that there are some practices they should never pursue. Leviticus 15 – 1:15 .  Leviticus 16 – 7:47 .  Leviticus 17 – 15:08 .  Leviticus 18 – 18:05 .  Proverbs 17 – 22:52 . :::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

As part of their covenant with the Lord, the Israelites were given regulations concerning what is considered clean and unclean. At times this is a means of health and well-being, at other times it serves as a distinction from surrounding nations. The term “unclean” doesn't necessarily mean those things are dirty, germ-infested, or immoral, though some of them certainly are, but these things are all ceremonially unclean; this is how Israel is to be set-apart from other nations, and given fully to the Lord. These regulations would have made Israel a distinct people on the earth, and the nations would know by their actions that they were fully devoted to the Lord. Leviticus 11 – 1:07 .  Leviticus 12 – 7:23 .  Leviticus 13 – 9:29 .  Leviticus 14 – 20:32 . :::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 1-3. . . . . 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 you continue to listen to these instructions on sacrifices, I encourage you to imagine what it would be like to experience these sacrifices. The warmth of a live animal and the feel of coarse hair under your hand as the animal is slaughtered for your sin; the smell of incense and roasting meat; the sight of blood splattered onto the clean, hand-crafted tunics of the priest who go before the Lord to make atonement. It all communicates something deeper about the gravity of sin and the graciousness of God toward those who seek forgiveness. Towards the end of our reading we'll see what happens when Aaron's sons decide to worship the Lord as they see fit, rather than by God's instructions. God takes obedience in worship seriously. Leviticus 6 – 1:17 .  Leviticus 7 – 6:43 .  Leviticus 8 – 12:31 .  Leviticus 9 – 19:02 .  Leviticus 10 – 22:54 .  Proverbs 16:17 – 27:31 . :::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

Today's reading is Luke 22-24. . . . . 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

We are beginning the book of Leviticus; the title basically means, “pertaining to the Levites,” as this book dives deeper into the responsibilities of priests and the divine-human relationship codified on Mount Sinai. These are instructions on how an impure people can be made holy by obedience to a perfect God. We'll look at four kinds of offering today. The burnt offering is given with prayer or praise to seek God's face and favor. The grain offering is generally offered along with another offering. The fellowship offering emphasizes fellowship with the Lord by having a communion meal. Finally, the sin offering is given to atone for sin that has been committed. Leviticus 1 – 1:15 .  Leviticus 2 – 3:57 .  Leviticus 3 – 7:34 .  Leviticus 4 – 10:09 .  Leviticus 5 – 17:32 .  Proverbs 16:1-16 :::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 Luke 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

Today's reading is Luke 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

Today's reading is Luke 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

Today's reading is Luke 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 Luke 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