Podcasts about Decree

In a series of topic-focused mini-episodes, Gilbert and Frank share their love of unheralded films, underrated TV shows, underappreciated pop songs and (often) unknown performers, discussing, dissecting and (occasionally) defending their handpicked guilty pleasures and buried treasures. This week: Gilbert sings again! Death on the baseball diamond! And Captain von Trapp hunts Jack the Ripper! https://www.gilbertpodcast.com/mini-ep-10-bang-the-drum-slowly-murder-by-decree/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesMarc joins Eternal Durdles for a deep dive into one of Premodern's most powerful—and complicated—strategies: Enchantress.But this isn't stock Enchantress.Marc's build cuts the traditional Opalescence / Parallax Wave / Replenish package and instead uses Oath of Druids as additional copies of Argothian Enchantress, alongside cards like Words of War, Abeyance, Wasteland, Gaea's Blessing, Decree of Justice, and more.We break down how the deck operates from its opening turns through the combo turn, why Marc wants zero four-mana cards in his maindeck, how to sequence Exploration correctly, and how to know when it's time to go off.Then we go deep on sideboarding and matchup strategy against some of Premodern's biggest decks.If Enchantress has always looked too complicated—or you're already playing it and want to take your game to another level—this is your Masterclass.#Premodern #MagicTheGathering #Enchantress #MTG #EternalDurdlesTimestamps00:00 Why Play Enchantress?00:58 Meet Marc & Mastering the Deck03:05 Enchantress vs. Replenish04:22 Marc's Oath of Druids Enchantress06:37 How the Engine Works07:52 Why Marc Cut the 4-Drops08:50 Turning Oath Into More Enchantresses09:09 Words of War Explained12:22 Why Gaea's Blessing Matters13:50 The Infinite Game14:28 Decree of Justice15:43 How to Sequence Exploration17:22 The Ideal Early Game18:52 Mirri's Guile vs. Sylvan Library19:57 Finding Your Enchantress Engine22:59 Solitary Confinement24:42 Marc's Build vs. Stock Enchantress28:38 Attacking What Opponents ExpectSideboard Guide29:06 Sideboard Overview29:15 Decree of Justice30:46 Akroma, Angel of Wrath31:33 Aura of Silence32:24 Karmic Justice33:21 Naturalize & Ray of Revelation34:32 Replenish35:35 Swords to Plowshares36:04 Tormod's Crypt36:42 Tsabo's Web37:08 Wrath of GodMatchup Guide37:49 Replenish42:21 Enchantress Mirror49:33 Hermit FEB56:11 Mono-Blue Dreadnought01:02:56 Goblins 01:23:10 Psychatog01:25:42 BurnUse our link for a free Month of Elite on TradeMagic.gghttps://trademagic.gg/eternaldurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhilChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesMarc joins Eternal Durdles for a deep dive into one of Premodern's most powerful—and complicated—strategies: Enchantress.But this isn't stock Enchantress.Marc's build cuts the traditional Opalescence / Parallax Wave / Replenish package and instead uses Oath of Druids as additional copies of Argothian Enchantress, alongside cards like Words of War, Abeyance, Wasteland, Gaea's Blessing, Decree of Justice, and more.We break down how the deck operates from its opening turns through the combo turn, why Marc wants zero four-mana cards in his maindeck, how to sequence Exploration correctly, and how to know when it's time to go off.Then we go deep on sideboarding and matchup strategy against some of Premodern's biggest decks.If Enchantress has always looked too complicated—or you're already playing it and want to take your game to another level—this is your Masterclass.#Premodern #MagicTheGathering #Enchantress #MTG #EternalDurdlesTimestamps00:00 Why Play Enchantress?00:58 Meet Marc & Mastering the Deck03:05 Enchantress vs. Replenish04:22 Marc's Oath of Druids Enchantress06:37 How the Engine Works07:52 Why Marc Cut the 4-Drops08:50 Turning Oath Into More Enchantresses09:09 Words of War Explained12:22 Why Gaea's Blessing Matters13:50 The Infinite Game14:28 Decree of Justice15:43 How to Sequence Exploration17:22 The Ideal Early Game18:52 Mirri's Guile vs. Sylvan Library19:57 Finding Your Enchantress Engine22:59 Solitary Confinement24:42 Marc's Build vs. Stock Enchantress28:38 Attacking What Opponents ExpectSideboard Guide29:06 Sideboard Overview29:15 Decree of Justice30:46 Akroma, Angel of Wrath31:33 Aura of Silence32:24 Karmic Justice33:21 Naturalize & Ray of Revelation34:32 Replenish35:35 Swords to Plowshares36:04 Tormod's Crypt36:42 Tsabo's Web37:08 Wrath of GodMatchup Guide37:49 Replenish42:21 Enchantress Mirror49:33 Hermit FEB56:11 Mono-Blue Dreadnought01:02:56 Goblins 01:23:10 Psychatog01:25:42 BurnUse our link for a free Month of Elite on TradeMagic.gghttps://trademagic.gg/eternaldurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhilChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/

When the Babylonian captivity finally ended, the returning remnant didn't find a pristine Promised Land—they found cracked foundations, burned gates, and a pile of rubble. If your faith, your marriage, or your sense of identity currently feels like a collection of broken stones, Ezra and Nehemiah provide the ultimate masterclass on how to reconstruct what has been destroyed. Summary: In this powerful episode, we delve into the twin narratives of Ezra and Nehemiah, books that historically stood as a single text detailing the painful, beautiful work of restoration. We map this journey onto the psychological and spiritual landscape of construction, deconstruction, and reconstruction, discovering how the Lord uses common, unnamed people to do the heavy lifting of the kingdom. The Temple and the Wall: We analyze why Ezra focuses on rebuilding the temple (our spiritual center) while Nehemiah focuses on rebuilding the walls (our behavioral boundaries). You cannot safely have one without the other. The Tears of the Ancient Men: We step into the emotional complexity of Ezra 3, where the shouting of the young blends with the weeping of the old. Discover how beauty emerges from ashes when we confront our history with absolute honesty. Samaritan Sabotage: We break down the subtle tactics of Sanballat and Tobiah—the "counselors" hired to frustrate the work through a war of words rather than an open military conflict. Learn how to navigate modern historical half-truths and secular critiques. The Trowel and the Spear: We dissect Nehemiah's defensive strategy, where workers built with one hand while holding a weapon in the other. We explore our modern duty to build up testimonies while defending the kingdom from relentless intimidation. Saying "Oh No" to Ono: We confront the modern trap of diversion. Nehemiah was targeted with invitations to negotiate in the plain of Ono, but his response stands as a timeless shield against worldly distractions: "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down." The Historical Prayer: We unpack the breathtaking Levitical prayer in Nehemiah 9, tracing how God consistently answers Israel's structural rebellion with manifold mercies, reminding us that He never closes shop on a repentant soul. Call-to-Action: Nehemiah refused to flee into the temple to save his own skin, recognizing that true covenant leadership requires us to stand our ground with a clear conscience and trust the Master. When the modern adversaries of faith tell you that you are trying to "revive stones out of a heap of rubbish," how do you keep your mind focused on the work? Let's build a meaningful dialogue in the comments below. To keep your gospel foundation structurally sound and "Unshaken," please like, subscribe, and share this video! Chapter Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 03:33 Destruction & Reconstruction 11:49 Prequel to the Return from Babylon 19:00 The Decree of Cyrus 24:50 Returning Remnants & Family Trees 38:07 Rebuilding the Temple 51:49 Hindering the Work 1:13:51 Overcoming Opposition 1:27:21 Ezra & the Second Return 1:46:15 Godly Sorrow for Sin 2:16:23 Changing Our Ways 2:35:06 Nehemiah's Prayer of Repentance 2:45:33 Dealing with Depression 2:57:48 Rhetoric & Ridicule 3:08:34 Lift Where You Stand 3:16:24 Ringing the Bells of Hell 3:29:16 Trowel and Sword 3:43:46 Breaking Economic Bonds 3:49:43 Saying "Oh No" to Ono 4:06:53 Reenthroning the Scriptures 4:15:03 A Historical Prayer 4:28:50 Sealing & Resettling 4:35:01 Remembered by God 4:40:22 Conclusion

Don't Stop When Tears Start Don't stop when tears start, because tears, sorrow, disappointments, and difficulties are part of the Christian life and part of the Christian journey. A lot of people start into this journey thinking that the presence of God means the absence of trouble, and that isn't true. Jesus Christ himself said, In this world you will have tribulation. You'll have difficulty, there will be trouble, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome this world. In other words, I have overcome this world's power to overcome you. When you opened your heart to Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit of God took up residence inside your physical body, and the Christ who won that victory on the cross — defeated the power of hell and darkness — lives inside of you now and will carry you to the finish line in this journey. You will be opposed, there will be difficulties along the way. For those who are in the middle of the journey, I remember those days so clearly in my life. I told my wife Teresa one time, I said, "I feel like if I wasn't sighing, I wouldn't be breathing." There was a season — a long season — where it was difficult. There are individual moments, but then there's a long season where long-suffering has got to come into your life, and God gives you the power. The Joy of First Salvation — Psalm 126:1–3 Psalm 126, we're going to start there, verses 1 to 3: When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter and our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them." The Lord has done great things for us, and we are glad. I remember those first days of salvation. I remember when I sat in church the first time and the person who led me to Christ shared the verse of Scripture that if anyone be in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things are passed away, and behold, all things have become new. I remember sitting and wondering, is that reality, or is that just a pipe dream? Can it actually happen? God, can you come and give me a future that I could never find in my own strength? No matter how much I would try, it would always escape me because I wasn't capable of fulfilling it. And then one day you begin to realize that you've been forgiven your sin, and the Holy Spirit has come and indwelt your human body. It's like a dream. Life begins to change line upon line, precept upon precept. From place to place, God begins to work a work that only the Holy Spirit can do, and you become aware of it. I remember the first time I ever went to a Christian police officer's conference in Speculator, upstate New York. For the first time ever in my life, I saw grown men weep before God for joy — Texas Rangers, people from all over the country, tough guys too, a lot of them, tenderized by the presence of God. I cried for three days. I couldn't stop crying. I don't know how many boxes of tissue I went through. I actually felt foolish at one point because I simply couldn't stop crying — it was like a dream. I know many of you remember those days, especially if you're in the middle of your journey now. Your mouth is filled with laughter. Your tongue is filled with singing. When I first started going to church, I'd open a hymn book — I wasn't raised on the hymns, so they were brand new to me. "It Is Well with My Soul." "Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine." I would stand there and the tears would come down my face. I remember one time my wife said to me, "You have to stop laughing when the preacher is preaching. He's going to think that you're mocking him." I said, "I'm not. I can't stop." I was just so filled with joy that I had this new life that God had promised. I had a hope. I had a future. I had now laid hold of the possibility of becoming the person that God intended my life to be. It would bubble out of me like a river. And then people among the nations — as Psalm 126 says — began to say, "The Lord has done great things for them." People around you started to say, "Wow, you are changing." Now, some things change quickly, don't they? Some things, the very day you come to Christ — maybe your vocabulary changes. You stop using the words you used to use, or if one slips, you're quick to apologize for it. And then there are certain things that change, and other things don't change quite as fast. I speak from experience. There were some things I was able to put away almost day one, and other things that took forever. Have you ever watched one of those old Western movies on television? They get in a gunfight in a saloon, and one guy gets shot and falls over the table. Then he climbs the stairway, falls over the balcony, stumbles behind the bar, gets up, falls over the bar, stumbles out through the swinging doors, and falls over the hitching post — and you're watching the movie saying, "Is this guy ever going to die?" Well, I don't know about you, but some things in my life went that way. They were shot, in a sense, by the blood of Jesus Christ. They lost their power, but they took time. Don't get discouraged when things in your life take time. They are dead. They might be still standing like the fig tree when Jesus and the disciples went back into Jerusalem, but they've lost their power to dictate your future. Praise be to God. A Season of Sorrow — Bring Back Our Captivity Now the psalmist goes on and he says, Bring back our captivity, O Lord, as streams in the south. Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy, and he who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. So this psalm starts out with such victory, and then it has a transitional point where the psalmist is saying, "God, do it again for me. Do it again for us. Bring back that joy that I once knew of my captivity being released. God, I'm in a season of sorrow now. I'm in a season where tears are taking over for what used to be joy. Would you help us in this?" To understand this, I want to go back to the actual journey that most agree this psalm speaks about. It began with the people of Israel being taken into captivity into a land called Babylon. They were taken there because they played fast and loose with the things of God. We go into captivity when we don't acknowledge the presence of God or the reason for which we were created — when we choose, as Adam and Eve once did, to follow our own reasoning and go our own way. Because of it, they lost the protection of God and were taken captive. For 70 years they were in captivity — more than a generation. Many, if not most, of these people were actually born in captivity. They knew the story of what God had done in the past, but they themselves had been the victims of captivity, and their lives were short of what they should have been. The Decree of Cyrus — A Picture of the Cross Now, the interesting thing is that in the book of Ezra, it gives us the history. In Ezra 1:1 it says, In the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia. This is where it really gets interesting, because about 150 years before Cyrus became king, it was prophesied that a king would be born whose name would be Cyrus. He is actually called "my servant" in the Word of God, and he would issue a decree letting the people go home to rebuild. It's phenomenal. God knows everything. There's nothing that happens that he doesn't know. Everything is in his control. He knows where you are today. He knows where you'll be tomorrow. As a matter of fact, he's already in your tomorrow before you even get there. He foretold through Jeremiah that his own people would go into captivity for 70 years. But through Isaiah, he declared that a king called Cyrus would be born who would issue a decree and let the people go back home to rebuild again. That's the context, really, of Psalm 126. Can you imagine being there? All you've ever kno...

Josesph reveals his true identity to his brothers. What was the prevailing factor in his life? Lady luck or a Holy Sovereign God?

⚖️ How to Deal with an Ex Who Refuses to Follow the Divorce Decree | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ A divorce decree is a legally binding court order. If your ex refuses to follow its terms, it can create stress, confusion, and financial or parenting issues. Understanding your options and documenting non-compliance is key to protecting your rights.

A new MP3 sermon from Alpha and Omega Ministries is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Mormon Piety Juke, Acts 13:48 Again, Dositheus, Decree 3 Completed Speaker: Dr. James White Broadcaster: Alpha and Omega Ministries Event: Sunday Service Date: 7/23/2026 Length: 75 min.

Covered three main topics on our road trip program from Grand Junction today, going about an hour and fifteen minutes. We started off with a response to a Mormon in reference to my presentation last evening at Calvary Bible Church on bridging the communication gap with Mormons. Then we looked at a fine post by Ron Henzel on Acts 13:48 in response to Provisionists actually pushing the NWT's tortured rendering of that text. We then got back to the Confession of Dositheus, and finished looking at Decree 3, noting how it uses the same prevenient grace argumentation of modern Arminianism.

Covered three main topics on our road trip program from Grand Junction today, going about an hour and fifteen minutes. We started off with a response to a Mormon in reference to my presentation last evening at Calvary Bible Church on bridging the communication gap with Mormons. Then we looked at a fine post by Ron Henzel on Acts 13:48 in response to Provisionists actually pushing the NWT's tortured rendering of that text. We then got back to the Confession of Dositheus, and finished looking at Decree 3, noting how it uses the same prevenient grace argumentation of modern Arminianism.

⚖️ How to Deal with an Ex Who Refuses to Follow the Divorce Decree | Los Angeles Divorce

Marilyn welcomes special guest Brenda Kunneman to discuss her book, The Daily Decree. When you boldly decree God's Word, what you speak will be saturated in the supernatural life and creative power of the Kingdom!

Today we are continuing in our series - Esther with Part 4: Activism and Providence. Join us in the conversation. This is the audio podacst.

Today we are continuing in our series - Esther with Part 4: Activism and Providence. Join us in the conversation. This is the audio podacst.

⚖️ Ex Ignoring Divorce Decree? Here's What You Can Do! | Los Angeles Divorce

Today on Questions with Father, we examine the recent decree of excommunication against the SSPX and the serious questions it has raised for priests, faithful, and families. Fr. Paul Robinson explains the Society's response, the difference between disobedience and schism, and why the SSPX argues that no true excommunication has been incurred. We'll also look at the validity of confessions and marriages, the role of supplied jurisdiction, and the deeper crisis in the Church that led to these consecrations. Above all, Father helps the faithful understand how to carry this cross without bitterness, while remaining firm in the Faith and praying for the Church. See all the episodes: https://sspxpodcast.com/ We'd love your feedback on this series! podcast@sspx.org – – – – – – View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/isYNWEqkvAY – – – – – – – The Society of Saint Pius X offers this series and all of its content free of charge. If you are able to offer a one time or a small monthly recurring donation, it will assist us greatly in continuing to provide these videos for the good of the Church and Catholic Tradition. Please Support this Apostolate with 1-time or Monthly Donation >> – – – – – – – Explore more: Subscribe to this Podcast to receive this and all our audio episodesSubscribe to the SSPX YouTube channel for video versions of our podcast series and SermonsFSSPX News Website: https://fsspx.newsVisit the US District website: https://sspx.org/ – – – – – What is the SSPX Podcast? The SSPX Podcast is produced by Angelus Press, which has as its mission the fortification of traditional Catholics so that they can defend the Faith, and reaching out to those who have not yet found Tradition.  – – – – – – What is the SSPX? The main goal of the Society of Saint Pius X is to preserve the Catholic Faith in its fullness and purity, to teach its truths, and to diffuse its virtues, especially through the Roman Catholic priesthood. Authentic spiritual life, the sacraments, and the traditional liturgy are its primary means of bringing this life of grace to souls. Although the traditional Latin Mass is the most visible and public expression of the work of the Society, we are committed to defending Catholic Tradition in its entirety: all of Catholic doctrine and morals as the Church has always defended them. What people need is the Catholic Faith, without compromise, with all the truth and beauty which accompanies it. https://sspx.org

Watch all of our Kevin A videos here:    • Kevin A  Kevin's links:EMAIL KEVIN hiddenfromhistory1@gmail.comKevin's DETENTION story: https://youtube.com/live/McVfP763gv0Kevin's documents: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EUgY...Listen to Kevin and the Voice of the Republic live every Sunday at 6 pm eastern at www.bbsradio.com/herewestandThe website of the Republic is www.republicofkanata.orgSee the evidence www.murderbydecree.com Videos: Kevin A Filmed in Toronto at That Channel TV studio in the spring of 2019   • Kevin Annett - A Candid Interview On The C...    and    • KEVIN ANNETT AND CANADA'S GENOCIDE FULL LE...  Kevin's book: by Decree https://www.amazon.com/dp/1530145619Kevin on Telegram: t.me/murderbydecreeWatch Zachary King Part 1 https://youtube.com/live/oEMnuj-V4X4Watch MK ULTRA TUNNELS SURVIVOR    • MK ULTRA TUNNELS SURVIVOR - Annalie Cummin...  Shaun Attwood's social media:TikTok:   / shaunattwood1    / shaunattwood  Twitter:   / shaunattwood  Facebook:   / shaunattwood1  Patreon:   / shaunattwood  Odysee: https://odysee.com/@ShaunAttwood:a#truecrime #youtubenews #podcast #livestream #youtube #trump #epstein #musk #news #usa #uk #royals #royal #royalfamily #princeandrew

Marilyn welcomes special guest Brenda Kunneman to discuss her book, The Daily Decree. When you boldly decree God's word, your words are saturated in the supernatural life and creative power of the Kingdom!

According to canon law, filing the appeal lifts the excommunications until the appeal process is resolved.Sponsored by Nelson Insurance Advisorshttps://www.nelsonplan.comSources:https://substack.com/@returntotradition1Contact Me:Email: return2catholictradition@gmail.comSupport My Work:Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/AnthonyStineSubscribeStarhttps://www.subscribestar.net/return-to-traditionBuy Me A Coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/AnthonyStinePhysical Mail:Anthony StinePO Box 3048Shawnee, OK74802Follow me on the following social media:https://www.facebook.com/ReturnToCatholicTradition/https://twitter.com/pontificatormax+JMJ+#popeleoXIV #catholicism #catholicchurch #catholicprophecy#infiltration

Podcast of decree to everyone. Blessings to all. God is our only source. Trust God! Trust His plans and process. Never give up on God. Love the Lord and thank him always. Go in peace. Blessings

On this episode of Walk Humbly, Bishop Burbidge speaks about the decree recently issued by the Holy See stating that the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Pius X (SSPX) is in schism and formally excommunicating its bishops. He explains what this means for the faithful of the diocese, and what we should do in response. Read his statement. Congratulations to the Arlington Catholic Herald and the diocesan Office of Communications on taking home 33 national awards from the Catholic Media Association!  Bishop Burbidge also previews the Quo Vadis and FIAT summer camps for high school boys and girls respectively taking place later this month at Mount St. Mary's Seminary.   Summer brings about increased need in the community; hear how Catholic Charities and our diocesan schools are stepping up to meet that need.  Finally, Bishop answers a listener question from Maria in Front Royal: "What is one small habit that has helped you grow closer to God over the years?"   Read: Independence Day Mass unites faithful in thanksgiving for freedom.  Consider contributing to second collections being taken up this weekend to support the people of Venezuela who are recovering from major earthquakes.   Walk Humbly welcomes listener questions for Bishop Burbidge. Call or text (703) 778-9100 anytime with your question. Connect with Walk Humbly and Bishop Burbidge by texting WALKHUMBLY to 84576 for occasional alerts and updates.   

July 8th, 2026 - We welcome Dr. Hanael Bianchi to examine a newly published study of Vatican II implementation that breaks new ground in historical research. Then, we welcome back Fr. Gerald Murray to get his thoughts on the Vatican's excommunication decree on the SSPX. Links, Show Notes & More - https://thestationofthecross.com/act Email Us! ACT@TheStationOfTheCross.com

“What is God's will for my life?” It's one of the biggest questions we all wrestle with as we make decisions that feel like they could shape the rest of our lives—our future, relationships, careers, and purpose. In this four-week series, No Wrong Turns: Finding God's Will for Your Life, we'll dive into what the Bible teaches about God's will, and discover the freedom, peace, and confidence we can have as we follow Him. The Bible reveals that God's will is both His sovereign plan over all things and His desire for how we are called to live. While we may not always understand what God is doing, we can trust that He is in control and that He is faithfully working all things together for our good and His glory. In this series, we'll explore God's will for our past, our present, and our future—learning how the gospel frees us from regret, empowers us to make wise decisions, and builds our trust in God so that we can follow wherever He leads. Because when our lives are surrendered to God, there are no wrong turns—only opportunities to trust that God is faithful to guide us, direct us, and use every step for His glory. We hope you're encouraged by this podcast! If you have questions about our church or what it means to follow Jesus, we'd love to hear from you. Check out our Instagram @fellowshipya, visit www.fellowshipar.com/young-adults, or send us an email at youngadults@fellowshipar.com.

Today we are continuing in our series - Esther with Part 2: In A Foreign Land. Join us in the conversation. This is the audio podacst.

Today we are continuing in our series - Esther with Part 2: In A Foreign Land. Join us in the conversation. This is the audio podacst.

SSPX Superior General Fr Davide Pagliarani issues formal response to Leo and Fernandez's excommunication decree that canonists now say isn't even legal, while Pope Leo is awarded the Liberty Medal for being a promoter of causes condemned by formal Papal teaching.Sponsored by Charity Mobilehttps://www.charitymobile.com/rtt.phpSources:https://substack.com/@returntotradition1Contact Me:Email: return2catholictradition@gmail.comSupport My Work:Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/AnthonyStineSubscribeStarhttps://www.subscribestar.net/return-to-traditionBuy Me A Coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/AnthonyStinePhysical Mail:Anthony StinePO Box 3048Shawnee, OK74802Follow me on the following social media:https://www.facebook.com/ReturnToCatholicTradition/https://twitter.com/pontificatormax+JMJ+#popeleoXIV #catholicism #catholicchurch #catholicprophecy#infiltration

Decree a Thing get your copy of my book on Amazon #sharron #podcasts #christiantalk #godfirst #podcasttofollow #spotifypodcast

Welcome to the Christmas series! Caesar's decree for a nationwide census couldn't come at a worse time for Mary and Joseph. But perhaps this journey to Bethlehem is exactly what God planned all along.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Parsha Review Podcast episode on the double portion Chukas-Balak, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe focuses on the opening of Parshas Chukas and the enigmatic mitzvah of the Parah Aduma (Red Heifer). This completely red, unyoked cow whose ashes purify those contaminated by contact with the dead is presented as the quintessential “chok” — a divine decree whose reason is beyond human comprehension.Rabbi Wolbe explains that the Torah calls it “Zos Chukas HaTorah” (this is the decree of the Torah) to teach that the essence of Torah observance is fulfilling Hashem's will, not only when we understand the reasons. He draws powerful parallels to the shofar on Rosh Hashanah (“Rachmana amar tik'u” — because the Merciful One said to blow it), the sages' protective decrees (yichud, harchakos, not reading by candlelight on Shabbos), and the oral Torah's necessity. Stories from the Talmud and historical examples illustrate the greatness of following rabbinic guidance even without full explanation, and the dangers of basing observance solely on logic or “reasons” (as seen in certain historical movements).The episode culminates in a call to observe all Mitzvos — even those we don't fully understand, like avoiding Lashon Hara — purely because they are the divine will of Hashem, the ultimate Source._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on June 23, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 24, 2026_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Numbers, #Bamidbar, #Chukas, #Balak, #ParahAduma, #Chok, #Decree, #RedHeifer, #Shofar, #LashonHara, #OralTorah, #RabbinicDecrees ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Parsha Review Podcast episode on the double portion Chukas-Balak, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe focuses on the opening of Parshas Chukas and the enigmatic mitzvah of the Parah Aduma (Red Heifer). This completely red, unyoked cow whose ashes purify those contaminated by contact with the dead is presented as the quintessential “chok” — a divine decree whose reason is beyond human comprehension.Rabbi Wolbe explains that the Torah calls it “Zos Chukas HaTorah” (this is the decree of the Torah) to teach that the essence of Torah observance is fulfilling Hashem's will, not only when we understand the reasons. He draws powerful parallels to the shofar on Rosh Hashanah (“Rachmana amar tik'u” — because the Merciful One said to blow it), the sages' protective decrees (yichud, harchakos, not reading by candlelight on Shabbos), and the oral Torah's necessity. Stories from the Talmud and historical examples illustrate the greatness of following rabbinic guidance even without full explanation, and the dangers of basing observance solely on logic or “reasons” (as seen in certain historical movements).The episode culminates in a call to observe all Mitzvos — even those we don't fully understand, like avoiding Lashon Hara — purely because they are the divine will of Hashem, the ultimate Source._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on June 23, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 24, 2026_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Numbers, #Bamidbar, #Chukas, #Balak, #ParahAduma, #Chok, #Decree, #RedHeifer, #Shofar, #LashonHara, #OralTorah, #RabbinicDecrees ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week's episode, Evangelist Chance Walters challenges us to speak the word of God boldly through many biblical examples where God gave his people victory over dire circumstances. Please share with a friend! 

Full TorahAnytime Lecture Video or Audio More classes from R' Shlomo Farhi ⭐ 2,636

June 21, 2026Decree #1 - I shall not want because of the Lord's PROVISION (vv. 1-3)Decree #2 - I shall not fear because of the Lord's PRESENCE (vv. 4-5)Decree #3 - I shall dwell because of the Lord's PURSUIT (v. 6)

Come journey with me toThe cosmos and engage Yahweh

Auto-generated transcript: Bismillāh ar-Raḥmān ar-Raḥīm, al-ḥamdu lillāhi rabbil-‘ālamīn, wa-salātu was-salām ‘ala ash-sharafi al-anbiyā’ wal-mursalīn, Muḥammadur Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wa ‘alā ālihi wa sahbihi wa-sallam, taslīman kathīran kathīran. Amma ba’du, my brothers and sisters, Allāh subḥānahu wa ta’ālā is the One who controls everything, wa huwa ‘alā kulli shay’in qadīr. Allāh subḥānahu wa ta’ālā is Qadīr… Continue reading Be pleased with Allahﷻ’s decree

Friends of the Rosary,Today, Saturday, June 13, the day after the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we celebrate the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.The Immaculate Heart of Mary reminds us of purity, love, and devotion. It symbolizes Mary's unwavering faith, compassion, and deep connection to God's will.Her heart, untouched by sin, is a model of holiness for all.Through her heart, we find a perfect reflection of God's mercy and grace, guiding us toward a deeper relationship. We seek Mary's intercession to live with love and humility and grow closer to Christ Our Savior.The feast was established in 1944, in the midst of World War II, by Pope Pius XII, who consecrated the world and placed it under the special protection of the Virgin Mary.Pius XII's Decree of May 4, 1944. asked her intercession to obtain "peace among nations, freedom for the Church, the conversion of sinners, the love of purity and the practice of virtue."But the devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary wasn't new.Christians were early attracted by the love and virtues of the Heart of Mary.Simeon's prophecy that Mary's heart would be pierced with a sword paved the way for this devotion. Moreover, Mary was not passive at the foot of the Cross; "she cooperated through charity," as St. Augustine says, "in the work of our redemption."The meditations on the Ave Maria and the Salve Regina date back to the Eleventh century.In the seventeenth century, St. John Eudes preached it together with that of the Sacred Heart.In 1830, during the revelation of the "miraculous medal," the Virgin Mary showed to Catherine Laboure the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus united.In the nineteenth century, Pius VII and Pius IX allowed several churches to celebrate a feast of the Pure Heart of Mary.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠June 13, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

What if the thing keeping you stuck isnʻt the whole story— or even the truest story? This Sunday Esther 8, Juneteenth, and Pentecost collide in a powerful invitation that points beyond survival toward Godʻs greater story of salvation.

You've seen it on TikTok, WhatsApp, and even in your prayer groups. "I decree and declare healing!" "I declare open doors!" "I decree financial breakthrough!" It sounds powerful. It sounds bold. But does it sound biblical?In this episode, we're hitting pause on the popular Christian trend of "decreeing and declaring." Before you type that comment or speak that word, let's ask an uncomfortable question: Who actually has the power to decree and declare? Is it you? Or is it God? So before you decree and declare, listen to this episode.Read more: https://kuzaapp.com/before-you-decree-and-declare/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kuzaappInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuzaappTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuzaappBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/kuza--3674993/support.

Sounds Beautiful Festival Jun 26-28 2026 tickets https://app.promotix.com/trade/select...Watch all of our Kevin A videos here:    • Kevin A  Kevin's links:EMAIL KEVIN hiddenfromhistory1@gmail.comKevin's DETENTION story: https://youtube.com/live/McVfP763gv0Kevin's documents: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EUgY...Listen to Kevin and the Voice of the Republic live every Sunday at 6 pm eastern at www.bbsradio.com/herewestandThe website of the Republic is www.republicofkanata.orgSee the evidence www.murderbydecree.com Videos: Kevin A Filmed in Toronto at That Channel TV studio in the spring of 2019   • Kevin Annett - A Candid Interview On The C...    and    • KEVIN ANNETT AND CANADA'S GENOCIDE FULL LE...  Kevin's book: by Decree https://www.amazon.com/dp/1530145619Kevin on Telegram: t.me/murderbydecreeWatch Zachary King Part 1 https://youtube.com/live/oEMnuj-V4X4Watch MK ULTRA TUNNELS SURVIVOR    • MK ULTRA TUNNELS SURVIVOR - Annalie Cummin...  Shaun Attwood's social media:TikTok:   / shaunattwood1    / shaunattwood  Twitter:   / shaunattwood  Facebook:   / shaunattwood1  Patreon:   / shaunattwood  Odysee: https://odysee.com/@ShaunAttwood:a#truecrime #youtubenews #podcast #livestream #youtube #trump #epstein #musk #news #usa #uk #royals #royal #royalfamily #princeandrew

In this profound exploration of Matthew 21:40-46, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb unpack the Parable of the Wicked Tenants and its devastating indictment of Israel's religious leadership. The hosts navigate the complex theological terrain of kingdom transfer, covenant faithfulness, and the identity of God's people across redemptive history. With careful attention to the text's original context and its implications for the church today, they examine how Christ presents himself as the rejected cornerstone—the one upon whom people either fall in repentance or are crushed in judgment. This episode offers rich insights into supersessionism, the remnant theology of Romans 11, and the practical call for Christians to examine whether they're submitting to Christ as the true cornerstone or attempting to usurp his rightful place. Key Takeaways The Self-Condemning Verdict: The chief priests and Pharisees unknowingly pronounce judgment upon themselves when they declare the wicked tenants deserve destruction, demonstrating how the natural conscience can discern God's justice even when blind to personal complicity. Kingdom Transfer as Covenant Transition: The "taking away" of the kingdom represents not the abandonment of God's elect remnant but the historical-redemptive transition from the typological Old Covenant administration to the New Covenant church gathered from all nations. The Cornerstone's Double Judgment: Christ as the cornerstone presents two modes of encounter—those who fall upon him in repentance are broken but healed; those upon whom he falls in final judgment are ground to powder with no remedy. Visible vs. Invisible Church Distinction: The visible identification of God's people shifted from the geopolitical nation of Israel to the universal church, while the invisible elect have always been saved by grace through faith in the coming Messiah. Fear of Man vs. Fear of God: The Pharisees' restraint from seizing Jesus due to fear of the crowds (rather than fear of God) exemplifies how the wicked are dominated by human opinion rather than divine accountability. Infant Baptism and Covenant Community: The joyful inclusion of children in the visible covenant community through baptism reflects God's gracious promise sealed to those who contribute nothing to their own covenant status. Fruit-Bearing as Evidence: The "new tenants" are characterized not by works-righteousness but by evidential fruit—the genuine works that flow from "true and lively faith" worked by the Holy Spirit. Key Concepts The Irony of Self-Condemnation The theological and pastoral power of this parable reaches its climax when the religious leaders, failing to perceive themselves as the wicked tenants in Jesus's story, pronounce harsh judgment upon the hypothetical villains: "He will bring those wretches to a wretched end." This moment mirrors Nathan's confrontation of David after the Bathsheba affair, yet with a tragic difference—these leaders never experience David's repentance. Calvin observes that the natural conscience, even when blind to personal guilt, retains an "hidden impulse to identify with justice." The Pharisees demonstrate total depravity in high definition: they possess enough moral clarity to recognize egregious covenant-breaking in the abstract, yet remain entirely blind to their own embodiment of that very wickedness. This irony serves as both judgment and warning—we all possess an uncanny ability to see sin clearly everywhere except in the mirror. Kingdom Transfer: Covenant Continuity and Discontinuity The phrase "the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing its fruit" requires careful theological handling to avoid both replacement theology (in its pejorative sense) and dispensational fragmentation. The Reformed understanding maintains covenant continuity: there has always been one people of God, defined not ethnically but by faith in the Messiah. What changes is the visible administration of the covenant. Under the Old Covenant, the visible church was largely coterminous with ethnic Israel—a geopolitical reality with boundaries, a zip code, and national identity. Under the New Covenant, the visible church explodes these ethnic and geographic boundaries, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham that "in your seed all nations will be blessed." This is not Plan B; it's the eschatological unveiling of what was always intended. The "breaking off of natural branches" (Romans 11) refers to covenant unfaithfulness resulting in exclusion from visible covenant privileges, while the faithful Jewish remnant—the apostles, early believers, and the ongoing elect from Israel—remain fully incorporated into the church. The vineyard hasn't been abandoned; it's been opened to "other tenants" who will render the proper fruit: Gentiles grafted in alongside believing Jews into the one olive tree of God's redemptive purposes. The Cornerstone: Salvation or Destruction Christ's invocation of Psalm 118:22—"the stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone"—followed by his dual judgment ("whoever falls on this stone will be broken...on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust") presents two exhaustive options for relating to Jesus. The cornerstone in ancient construction was the foundational stone by which all other stones found their proper alignment and orientation. To fall upon this stone willingly—in repentance, faith, and self-abandonment—is painful. It shatters pride, self-righteousness, and autonomy. But this breaking leads to healing, to being properly "squared" and aligned with reality as God has constructed it. The alternative is catastrophic: to have the cornerstone fall upon you in final eschatological judgment is to experience irreversible, total destruction—being "ground to powder" with no possibility of remedy. The practical application is urgent: we must examine ourselves continually to ensure we're not attempting to be our own cornerstone, measuring righteousness by our own standards, aligning the universe to ourselves rather than submitting to Christ as the measure of all things. Memorable Quotes "There's never a time where that righteousness is removed or unapplied, but we are constantly faced with a choice as to whether we want to be the kind of people who render our fruit unto the Lord, as the faithful tenants when the unfaithful tenants are replaced. Or do we wanna be the people that reap wicked fruit and keep for ourselves?" — Tony Arsenal "The vineyard of God is still let out, the fruit is still demanded, the cornerstone is still laid. Blessed are they who receive him—and also get those babies into church." — Jesse Schwamb "This is not a wall you're gonna run through. Like you're gonna smash into this wall and it's gonna crush you. And if you are not properly assigning the cornerstone its place... the whole thing is gonna crush you." — Tony Arsenal Full Episode Transcript [00:01:05] Jesse Schwamb: Welcome to episode 492 of The Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse.  [00:01:14] Tony Arsenal: And I'm Tony. And this is the podcast with ears to hear. Hey brother.  [00:01:18] Jesse Schwamb: Hey brother.  [00:01:19] Parable Recap [00:01:19] Jesse Schwamb: Well, the time has finally come for us to close out our discussion in Matthew 21. This is the Parable of the Vine growers, and everybody should just go back and list everything we said so far, but I think here's how we could sum it up. Jesus's authority gets challenged and he sets a trap so beautiful that we should put it into a museum. He tells basically the religious bigwigs, this whole story where tenants speed up servants, they kill the air. They generally behave like it's an HOA literally run by the devil. And then he asks them this question, so what should the owner of the vineyard do And the chief priest. Chest puffed up. Basically shout out the answers to their own indictment. Smoke 'em. Give the vineyard to somebody who isn't garbage. Listen fellas, you just preached your own funeral. So in this we get to see this total depravity in 4K. Sovereign grace skips the credential gatekeepers and it lands on the tax collectors and the gentiles. They elect the vineyard, the self-righteous, get the rock. And we're gonna close out what all of that means, including probably not a small amount of talk about the kingdom being transferred, whatever that means, and maybe a little engrafting. Aah, Romans 11 style. It's all there for us. And that is what is coming up. [00:02:34] Affirmations Setup [00:02:34] Jesse Schwamb: Of course before we can do any of that, we can't even get there. Tony, before we do affirmations, denials, you and I both know it's our contractual obligation. It's what the people want all over the world. If we skip this, there will be some kind of riot revolt. So we gotta start there. Let's not get too excited yet. So I'm curious as always, are you affirming with something or you not against something for this episode?  [00:02:58] Tony Arsenal: I am, I'm affirming, uh, this is gonna be like people are gonna grow and roll their eyes a little bit.  [00:03:04] Infant Baptism Joy [00:03:04] Tony Arsenal: I'm affirming infant baptism today. We had a lovely infant baptism at church, um, and a couple recently had a child. Um, there's been, this was a kind of a particularly, um, poignant baptism. Um, the, the mother was in the hospital for several weeks before the baby was born, um, with some medical challenges, so was in. In the hospital. In the hospital for like, I want to say probably four weeks, which is a long time. Um, they have several other children, which makes it even harder. Um, and then, uh, then the baby was in the hospital for quite some time. He came a little early and then had some other issues. Um, and so this family was out of church for quite some time dealing with these health issues, and we, we all miss them very much. So it was a very sweet moment. Um, and it's just a, a good reminder, right? And, and the way our church does it is, you know, the pastor, the family comes up, they do vows, they do the baptism, but he calls all the children forward and the children come and sit, uh, right in the front row and they watch this all happen. Um. Which is, is very sweet. And you know, I, I went up there with Augie, and Augie was sitting on my lap and he was very, he was like super locked into this, this whole thing, which is, uh, which was nice to see. So I'm affirming infant baptism. It's a beautiful, beautiful picture of the gospel. Um, it's, it's God's promise being sealed to someone who contributes nothing to, um, to that promise contributes nothing to, uh, their own, um, position in the church or status in the church. They contribute nothing. Um, in most cases they're not even aware of what's going on. So I know not all of our listeners are, uh, are covenant infant Baptists, uh, type people. Um, so yes, I get it. You disagree, but there is something just sweet and beautiful, uh, even I think even for people who aren't quite sold on infant baptism. Um, and I think even sometimes for people who are kind of opposed to infant baptism, I think we've commented in the PA past that there's kind of this impulse that I think all Christian parents have that their children should be. Treated in a certain way that's different than how a non-Christian family treats their children. Right. Um, so there is kind of this instinct that the, there's, whether it's a formal status or just sort of a, a way of thinking about things, there is this impulse that the children of believers are somehow set apart in different, and of course, the, the Presbyterian Covenant Baptist, um, position would, would formalize that through the rite of baptism, uh, at least in part. So I'm affirming infant baptism, both theologically, but also just experimentally today. Like it was just, it was just a balm to my soul to see this, um. And like I said, the congregation has been praying for a long time for the health, uh, and the, the welfare of this family, um, and been, you know, doing meal trains and all the stuff that churches do. But it was, it was a very sweet moment, um, to see the pastor scoop this little baby up in his arms and be able to sort of introduce him to the church as the newest covenant member of the congregation. Uh, it was just a very nice moment. [00:05:59] Baptism Dedication Common Ground [00:05:59] Jesse Schwamb: I think you're right. We can all agree that there's something really beautiful about God growing his church, at least the visible church, through just the multiplicative effect of. People having children, there's something beautiful about that, and then welcoming them in an official way into your congregation, into your midst. Interestingly, in my church, there was a baby dedication today and I was also equally moved though like I would say the promises that were invoked during that time, the equipment's made are very different than what you might hear during kind of pedo infant baptism. You're right in that the spirit of this that is like a representation kind of bringing forward of the child to say he or she is part of us and we're making a commitment to raise them in admonition of the Lord is a really lovely thing. It's like a public recognition that God is providing a manifest blessing in our midst, and that he is growing and working out his church and he's doing it by just bringing new people into it who are being, who are the subjects of procreation. Creation itself, but procreation and how can you not be like, just excited about that. And, and also a little bit like it's also, and I'm not trying to denigrate any practice here, but also just on the face also super adorable. Like when you, when you see a pastor scoop up, like you said, a little child, whether that's to pray with them and dedication or to baptize them. Either way, it's super just like lovely and just pulls in your heartstrings. Yeah. In like this very spiritual way, not just in kind of an emotional kind of way.  [00:07:26] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And I, you know, I don't, I think, um, when I think back, you know, Augie's, obviously you know this, but Augie was dedicated, um, Addie was not. Um, but when I think back to the vows we took, when we dedicated Augie, there are some differences, but there's also a lot that's not different like the sure close to like, raise up your child in the church and to like, pray for them and set a good example. And then, and then the sort of reciprocal vows that the congregation typically takes, that the congregation will do what they can to support the family as they, they raise this child and the Lord. Um, you know, even in, even in a lot of contexts, like in the Presbyterian church, I'm in like prayers that this, this child would come to know Jesus and would, would come to confess the faith for themselves and become a full, you know, full communicate member of the church. Like, those things are all present. So as much as I think, um. As much as I wanna acknowledge that infant baptism or, or covenant, I, I say covenant baptism versus, um, sort of like baptist theology writ, large credo Baptist theology, which is covenantal, but differently covenantal in most cases. Right. Um, even though that is a dividing line, and I think like it's a real dividing line. There's a real division that exists and that there's good theological historical reasons why those divisions exist. There still is so much that is the same. Um, in terms of how Baptists and, and Presbyterians or however formed, you know, PR Christians, um, re reflect on and think about their children. There's some differences, but in terms of like. We all want our children to come to know Jesus. We all want their first memory to be worshiping in the church and loving the Lord. We, we don't want them to ever remember a time where the name of Christ was not on their lips as their savior. Um, all those things are the same and even the, the way we promise before God and, and primarily before God, but before others, even the way we promise to nourish them in, in right doctrine and nourish them in good teaching and bring them into the church and, and set a faithful example. All of those things are the same. So I I I, I never want to diminish the fact that there are differences 'cause there are real differences and there are important differences. But I also think we often sort of like. I think because we've talked about this before, like Reformed Baptists and Presbyterians are so close that we have to bicker over the things that are different. It's like you're, it's like when you fight with your brother on whose side of the room it's on. Like you're so close that you have to find the little things to really bicker about and then you really, really bicker about them. And I think that kind of like describes the, the Presbyterian Baptist divide in a lot of ways. I know there's a lot of people that would say like, Lutherans are closer to Presbyterians and those people are just, I dunno, they're just wrong. Um, on, on, maybe on baptism, they're, they're not wrong. But in terms of general theological principles, like, you know, Westminster Confession, London Baptists, confession, like, it, it's 95% the same content. Sure. Um, and 95% like the same confession, not just the same like words, but the same meaning of the words. And, um, so yeah. Anyway, that's my affirmation. Infant baptism. It was a joy. I was happy to see it. Um, uh, we have a ton of little, little babies in the, the church. It's funny 'cause another, another, um. A couple announced today that they were expecting, and we've, we've had basically pregnant women in the church for, you know, obviously like at least nine months if someone is still pregnant. But like we've had, we've had this like rotation of, of women delivering babies for like, at least, probably, at least 16, 18 months of, of constantly having people who are, are expecting, which is really a great joy to see. So I, I love it. I love the church. I love the Presbyterian church. Um, and this was just another great example of, of the beauty of, uh, a robust confessionalism and a robust presbyterianism. [00:11:08] Jesse Schwamb: The way in which you said that made it sound like you're about to make like a grand historical statement. Like, we've had pregnant people in the church since the first century.  [00:11:18] Tony Arsenal: Well, I mean that's probably true, but  [00:11:19] Jesse Schwamb: yeah, it definitely  [00:11:20] Tony Arsenal: true. Not, not our church. Our church has only been around, our particular church has only been around for like 10 years, so I'm sure there have been times during that period where there were not pregnant people  [00:11:29] Jesse Schwamb: pregnant. It just sounded like we were going all the way back as if like to, again emphasize and maybe this isn't, this is as fair statement, like how faithful God has been like from the beginning. There's always been. Pregnant lady Church. Look, look at how faithful God is.  [00:11:42] Mic Grabbing Babies [00:11:42] Jesse Schwamb: And, and this is true, I like to play this game when there is a baby dedication. I'm not sure what the sound system is like in your church, but often our, our pastors wear like the tiny little like Backstreet Boys style. It's probably outdated reference, but microphone that comes over the ear and to the mouth and it's very discreet. But the game I like to play is like once, once he takes the child for a time of dedication or specifically prayer, the, the goal is to see like how long before that baby goes for the mic. Because as soon as like a baby sees a mic right there, it's like, oh yeah, this is the best thing that's happened to me in my tiny little life.  [00:12:20] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, it's like an angler fish is really what it is. Yes. It's like that glowing bulb that just sits in front of its face and it's, the baby's just gotta grab it. [00:12:27] Jesse Schwamb: It's just too tempting. It's just too tempting. And I, and I love, you can tell like our pastors are really adept at being able to keep the prayer going and like discreetly maneuver the child, keep the child happy. It's, it's really an amazing thing. So altogether, I'm totally with you on so many levels. It's so good to see that happen in the church. And I'm with you on that. We gotta take joy in that For sure.  [00:12:48] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Jesse, what do you got for us tonight?  [00:12:50] Book Breath Pick [00:12:50] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, something that's entirely unlike everything you just said. Certainly. Well, maybe, I guess there is a large spiritual component to this, but it's, I would say, for me, totally unexpected book recommendation and I came across this 'cause it was recommended to me and a while back, the keen or the listener who's been with us for a really long time, or a member that we talked about the book or why we sleep, this book became for me, like the equivalent of that in a totally different kind of topic or genre. It's called breath. The New Signs of a Lost Art by James Nestor and it explores how the way that humans breathe profoundly affects our health, our performance, our longevity. It's a book that is filled with both science and pseudoscience, which the author is really good at distinguishing and calling you to think about those things. But it's really totally changed how I understand like this little pattern in Habits of breathing. And it's a really interesting book of course. Like he draws from a lot of like religious influences, including of course the Judeo-Christian one. And I think that it even drew me back to understanding how God created us. And he did in a very specific way that text's giving some great description to the breadth that he gives us and how he gives us that breath. So if you're looking, I guess, for a little bit of a read, so that might surprise you about something that you might thought was automatic and simple in life and also that might. Be able to bring you some recommendations on how to better your health. Again, we're not doctors, but we are routinely considered among the top 50 healthcare podcasts. Then I would say this would be an interesting book for you to check out.  [00:14:19] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. I haven't read it, but it's been recommended to me and one of the, one of the takeaways, actually, I think it might have been my doctor, my my PCP who mentioned this to me is like, if you wanna improve your health drastically, like just make it a practice of breathing through your nose. Yes. Like something that simple and straightforward has pretty significant health impacts of like. Like the way that your brain processes breath when it comes through your nose, the way that like, there's more filtering that happens with breath, so the air that gets to your lungs is cleaner. There's just a lot of, um, I haven't read it. I've, I think I actually have it somewhere, but I have not read it yet. Um, I, I should, I should take a look at it. I, I've heard good things about it.  [00:15:01] Jesse Schwamb: At the very least, if you're a Christian, it'll cause you to marvel again. That's how beautifully complex God has made the human body and how it seems entirely impossible that anyone could even logically reasonably conclude that somehow we are just time plus matter, plus chance, and that all these things got worked out. I don't wanna spoil some of the punchline. A part of the book is about this. Breathe through your nose, which you might think was just kind of an innocuous decision. Breathe through your nose, breathe your mouth. How, how different could it be? They actually do an experiment where they plug their noses, the author and somebody else for, uh, several, like 10 days straight. And do all these these things under medical supervision to see what the impact is. And I'll leave you to read it so you can hear that. There's also something fascinating, absolutely fascinating about carbon dioxide and a study that's done where they actually have people inhale a little bit of carbon dioxide and what it does to the body. In other words, like the system that God has put into play to ensure that the body gets the kind of right amount of oxygen that it needs and how it functions when it's given the warning side of carbon dioxide, even when. Your lung capacity and your oxygen, your blood doesn't change. There's a fascinating section on that. So I didn't expect to be this interested in the book and generally I take a little time before I recommend a book. I finished this a couple weeks ago and I'm still thinking about it. So, and I'm trying to put some things into practice, including I try to do some running and for the longest time I just thought, well, when you run, like even at any like moderate speed, like you have to breathe through your mouth, this book challenges some of that. So lo and behold, I went out and started to try just a little bit to see if I could just breathe through my nose. It turns out it's totally possible, like all this time I just thought that was impossible, like God didn't make us that way, and it's actually improving how I feel when I run and the running that I'm able to do. So I am surprised, I, I'm shocked by all this, and it's just as simple as understanding breath. Who would've guessed.  [00:16:56] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. I mean, I've heard it's a great book. I, I, I. It never ceases to amaze that the, the more we look at the human body, the more we look at God's creation, the more we see the fingerprints of our creators. So not, not  [00:17:07] Jesse Schwamb: right.  [00:17:07] Tony Arsenal: Sounds like a great book. I can't recommend it from personal experience, uh, although I've heard very good things.  [00:17:12] Reading Matthew 21 [00:17:12] Tony Arsenal: So, Jesse, I think we should probably just get into it because this is now week three of, uh, one week episode and, uh, we want to wanna dig in and we wanna wrap it up so we can move on to the next best thing out there, which is of course, the parables of Christ. [00:17:26] Jesse Schwamb: Let's get some. So I'm gonna read for us starting in verse 40 because if you've been tracking then you've already been with us through the first part of this parable, and it's notoriously or variously called parable the vine growers, or I kinda like the husband men, just because that's fun to say, and you don't get to drop husband men like very often. But vine dressers, vine growers, vine workers, it's all the same. But here's starting in verse 40. This is after Jesus has already explained the parable. He set it up for them and he's gonna bring for the indictment. So Jesus says, and therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to these vine growers? They said to him, he will bring those wretches to a wretched end and he will rent out the vineyard to other vine growers who will pay him the proceeds at the proper seasons. Jesus said to them, did you never read in the scriptures the stone, which the builders rejected? This has become the chief cornerstone. This came about from the Lord in his, marvelous in our eyes. Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing the fruit of it. And he who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces, but on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust. And when the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they understood that he was speaking about them. And although they were seeking to seize him, they feared the crowds because they were guarding him to be a prophet.  [00:18:48] Irony Blind Leaders [00:18:48] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, that, that last little section here is just such, it's like dripping with such irony,  [00:18:53] Jesse Schwamb: so good  [00:18:54] Tony Arsenal: that like they, they are so blinded by their own, um, I dunno, ambition isn't, maybe isn't even the right word, but something in that, that neighborhood, they're so blinded by their desire to. Maintain their own status quo, their own uh, their own status. That they fear the crowds because the crowds hold them to be a prophet,  [00:19:15] Jesse Schwamb: right?  [00:19:16] Tony Arsenal: When in reality, like there is a prophet in their midst and much more than a prophet, uh, and they can't see it because of their own blindness. So I'm stoked to get into it. This is such, like we said, this is such a, like on the nose, paril, it's crazy. This is so much like, you know, Nathan's, you are the man kind of parable. Like yes, that's right, except there never is a, you are the man moment for them. They never get it, which is. Stunning. Like I, I, it just sort of is like, I don't even know what to make of that. [00:19:41] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. There is like a wild blindness. I've been thinking about that a lot in our past conversations, but it culminates here. These chief priests and elders, I would say strangely, but I think that this is probably true of all of us, and maybe especially me, perhaps not yet, like perceiving themselves to be the vine growers here in view, they render this verdict of severe justice. It seems like you, you wanna say to them? Like, guys, guys, pull up, hold up a second. Yeah. Take a step back before you overreact here, because you're about to condemn yourselves and in the Greek here, this expression like, miserably destroy these wicked men. Or it gets like this double wretched in our translations. Mostly he will bring those wretches to a wretched end. It's this rhetorical intensification. It's incredible. And I, I think there's at least like two truths here. That come to my mind. One is, we've talked about before, but is in line with what you're saying, that the natural conscience, when not even aware of its own complicity, can still discern the justice of God's judgments. So here are these men who are so prone almost, I think what Calvin says elsewhere, like that we have this hidden impulse to identify with justice. Even when we can't see that we are the ones perpetrating something of injustice, still we can't help but cry out. We can't even help but identify it. And here they. Accurately identify it. And even though they're putting themselves exactly in the cross here, they cannot help but basically cry out that how egregious this behavior is of these vine growers that Jesus has basically, you know, created in this hypothetical environment, even still there, they're filled with rage and the rage gets turned on them. So the Pharisees here, of course, function as this unwitting witness to the righteousness of God's wrath against covenant breakers, even though they, they don't see it.  [00:21:29] Kingdom Transfer Talk [00:21:29] Jesse Schwamb: Uh, the second thing I think that comes to my mind, and maybe this is like more to the point, is that. The verse foreshadows this transfer of the kingdom from the Jewish nation to a new people that would bring forth its fruits, which I realize if I bring that up right now, that we've just committed to like six episodes just on that topic probably. But yeah, but like, we're gonna have to come to it because there's so much here. And the phrase of this, like, let out his vineyard unto other vine growers or husbandman, it does to me like anticipate this calling of the Gentiles and the formation of the Christian Church and in, in this way. It's not to me. The abandonment of the elect, remnant of Israel, but it is like the breaking off of the natural branches and then this engrafting of the wild olive shoots that come through like Allah, Romans 11. So it's, it's not like from one nation to another simply, but from like the carnal seed to a spiritual seed gathered out of all the nations, that that's wild. Right? I, I think that's all in view here. And it's like a kind of a crazy thing to say. It's certainly like a wild thing to say, no pun intended. And I imagine like, unexpected thing to say.  [00:22:38] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah.  [00:22:40] Supersessionism Clarified [00:22:40] Tony Arsenal: Let's think about that a little bit because I think too, there's, there's almost an element of, um. Man, I'm gonna get a lot of flack for saying this. You're, there's almost like a legitimate replacement theology here, right? Like replacement theology. I got covenant theology, you know, reformed, um, reformed theology often gets slandered as, you know, supersessionism or replacement theology, uh, with this idea that like, it's, it's interest. Uh, you have to have dispensational presuppositions for that phrase to even make sense because like the reformed paradigm is that there is one people of God full stop. And yes, like the identity of the one people of God seems to sort of like morph from the Jewish national people to now like Jews and Gentiles and actually predominantly Gentiles in the scope of like the whole history of the church. But what I mean by this is like, there's a visible church in the Old Testament, in the old, under the old Covenant, and the visible church under the old covenant is the national people of, of Israel. Right. By and large. Right. Um, and there are, there are sort of like Gentile, um, Clingons, not like the Star Trek people, but like gentile, like attachments to that throughout the history of, of Old Testament, um, theology. Um. That visible, that visible identification of this is the people of God being the Jewish people. Uh, these are the people that are the vineyard, the, they're the, the owner or the tenants of the vineyard or the, the visible Jewish people of the geopolitical nation of Israel under the old covenant that does sort of like get superseded by the church in the church age, in the new covenant,  right?  [00:24:24] Tony Arsenal: But where, where Supersessionism or the accusation of Supersessionism goes wrong is that there is this distinction between the visible and invisible church. And that distinction is what prevents us from being like, sort of like true replacement theologians in the way that the, the dispensationalist wanna paint us. So I, I think you're right that there is a lot to say here about the fact that, um, and, and this is where it gets, um. We have to be careful systematically. Right. God, God doesn't have to pivot. He doesn't have like a plan B. It's not like the Gentiles are the plan B, but there is a sense in almost in which the way that this is presented, the way that it appears in the scriptures is actually, yeah, there is almost like this plan B, like there is the geopolitical ethnic people of, of Israel, the Jewish people under the old covenant. And, and they don't do what they're supposed to do. They don't follow the terms of their covenant. They don't accept the kingdom that is bequeathed to them under the terms of the old covenant. And they, they reject that kingdom because of a disobedience. And, and I think what Christ here is narrowing in on is it's not just disobedience, right? It's not sort of like, um, accidental ancillary disobedience. It's not generalized disobedience. It is this sort of like usurpation of God's rightful status as the ruler and king of the nation. That's right. The the people, the, the Pharisees. And the chief priests and the scribes and the Sadducees, they want to be the rulers of the nation. They want to, they, they seem to wanna take the place of God, at least as far as Christ is presenting it. In this, they wanna usurp the kingdom. They want to take the heirs, uh, rightful inheritance, and they want to claim it for themselves. That is not a generalized disobedience, it's a special t type of covenant unfaithfulness that causes God to causes and kind of air quotes that causes God to hand over the kingdom to another people. Right. Partially, I think, uh, we don't need to get into Romans, the Romans 11 stuff, but partially I think because that's actually the way that he's going to ultimately save the Jewish people, right, is by sort of making, making them jealous of the Gentiles. Like there's a, there's a real element of that, that the salvation of the Gentiles is actually for, in some sense is for or unto the salvation of the Jewish people or the, the faithful Jewish remnant that's all here. And, and you can't really get past that in this parable. Um, this is why I think a, a lot of dispensationalist, um, uh, some of the classic dispensational sources would actually see like this, this is not for the Jewish church. This, this is for the Gentiles. This is actually part of the parentheses, um. You know, and, and again, dispensationalist divide all that stuff up differently, but this is a really interesting section for us to talk about that we can't, we can't just gloss over that. [00:27:11] Jesse Schwamb: I certainly don't mean to imply that it's wild because it's unexpected. I think it's wild because interestingly, the Pharisees, the teachers here, they challenge Jesus authority and his response to that is to challenge their covenant faithfulness.  [00:27:24] Tony Arsenal: Right?  [00:27:25] Jesse Schwamb: So it's not just if he turns it around, he uses this opportunity to explain what's going to happen to them as those who are, like you said, were supposed to be representative. And I think critically like the qualifying phrase. That that's using the text here, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons. That's like really important because these new vine growers are characterized by their fruitfulness. So this is not like a doctrine of works righteousness, but it's evidential fruit. And that's why, and I had to look this up and the Westminster Confession confession, chapter 16, good works are quote the fruits and evidences of true and lively faith, which I love. I was trying to find that language true and lively faith. So the visible church under that new administration is identified by the fruits of repentance, faith, and obedience worked out by the Holy Spirit. Again, I think that's all that is in view here, that that's a lot to say. But you know, famously, like you've kind of intimated, when we go back to the Old Testament, even we find when the Israelites leave triumphantly from Egypt, that they're accompanied by those outside of Israel. We find that other characters like Grh who continually want to identify with a Yahweh whom God is saving and drawing onto himself and here is kind. Him, Jesus, at least representing as the son of God. That kind of cli climactic view. Speaking from the prophet register again saying, this is what I was saying to Abraham. I said, like from your seed, all these nations in this spiritual sense will be gathered out. So there'll be a single nation as it were in Christ. And even now, I'm telling you, I'm breaking down those boundaries. But I think to your point, importantly Tony, in part because you have failed in the covenant promises and you who were to represent and to heed and to lead, have fallen down. And so now you're gonna trip over this stone and it's going to crush you. And as a result of that, the vine, the vine growers will be, or the vineyard itself will be turned over to those who bear this true and lively fruit.  [00:29:22] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah.  [00:29:23] Israel Failure Remnant [00:29:23] Tony Arsenal: There's an interesting, um. There's an interesting dynamic here that actually strikes me as kind of similar. It's a little bit more opaque, but similar to, uh, like Joseph in, uh, in Egypt, right when his brothers come and he says, you meant this for evil, but God meant it for good. Mm-hmm. There's a, there's an element of here, we've talked about the parables. That's sort of like systematic theology in story form. Um, there's a reality here that it's both true, that God always intended for the kingdom to be expansive and, and to expand beyond the nation of Israel. To be this universal, global lowercase c Catholic, universal church universal in the sense that it's not bound by any particular nation, by any particular geopolitical reality. Um. That's true, but it's also true that the reason, uh, on a sort of like horizontal level that that's true is that Israel failed. Right? It so God always intended for Israel to fail, yet Israel is responsible for the fact that they failed. Yes, that's right. Um, and, and, and again, we, we, we sort of commented on this before, like there are some in our broader reformed circles that turn this into a sort of antisemitism, like a sort of hatred for the Jewish people. And I don't think, I don't think that there's any warrant in scripture for that. In fact, I think scripture speaks strongly against that. Is that, um. Not necessarily because there's any particular unique special affection that God has for Israel, like, like the modern Jewish people, but, but that, like racism in general is prohibited by the Bible. But I think where we do need to be clear though, is that there is a real failure. It's a true, genuine failure on the part of the first century Jewish. Leaders and people, um, with a faithful remnant. Right? There was, um, we're, we're getting, you know, we're in the springtime and we've already had, uh, we've already had discussions about this. We've already done Easter, but like there is always conversations around Palm Sunday of like, are the crowds that are following Jesus into, into town screaming, you know, yelling, Hosanna? Is that the same crowds that are yelling crucify him a couple days later? Um, I tend to think like, no, like actually, like the people who are saying crucified, crucify Christ are probably like the Jews who live in Jerusalem or like the, primarily the religious leaders. There's a whole host of Jewish believers and kind of the hoy pallo, the, the people out in the country that absolutely follow Jesus. Like they follow him as the Messiah. They, they confess him in many cases. They convince him to be, um, they confess him to be God, to to be the savior, to be the, the figure from Daniel seven, the son of man. Um. There's a reality in which the Jewish remnant absolutely recognize Christ and they persist in the church, right? The earliest Christians were all Jews, and you know, there was a few Gentiles along the way, you know, and maybe not even Gentiles like Samaritans. I don't even know if you would call them gentiles. They're kind of this midway point, but in Jewish gentil. But there are people throughout Christ's ministry, right? Cornelius or not Cornelius, the Centurion recognizes that this is the son of God. Like there are people, the s Phoenician woman, there are people who are not part of Israel proper, who even in the, in the midst of Christ's ministry are recognizing him as God and as Messiah and as the savior of the world. But, but by and large, the earliest Christian movement was Jewish people. It was the faithful remnant of, of Israel who recognized that their Messiah had come. That is true. And at the same time. The, probably the majority, and especially the rulers and the leaders of the Israel, you know, the Jewish faith in the first century absolutely rejected him. And this is what I, this is what I think is wild, is I think sometimes we think that, um, the prophecies and the understanding of Christ and what the messiah, who the Messiah was to be and what to expect, we think of those as like super obscured and super hidden until Christ comes and then all of a sudden they're really obvious. Christ doesn't seem to treat them that way. Right? Right. He tells this parable and they rightly identify that, and this is a, this is such a thinly veiled parable. Like this is like, you killed the prophets. You're going to kill me. And there's going to be consequences. Like he practically says that outright. Um. He treats that as like they should obviously know this, right? The, have you never read in the scriptures, the stone, the builder rejected has become the cornerstone, right? This was the lord's doing. It is, and it is marvelous in their eyes that have you never read?  [00:34:06] Decree in Rejection [00:34:06] Tony Arsenal: That is a, that's a rhetorical question with the implied answer of, of course, you've read exactly like he's not, he's not teaching them something that he anticipated is new to them. He maybe is teaching them something that he anticipated they maybe you didn't recognize. But actually I think probably like, uh, there probably were many among them that were like, oh yeah, we are doing this. But then almost like we're powerless to stop themselves from moving forward in that.  [00:34:32] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:34:32] Tony Arsenal: Sort of like wicked plan. [00:34:34] Jesse Schwamb: Right. Yeah. And I think we could extend that as well to say that this rejection of Christ by this Jewish leadership, which of course was a incredible failure, like you're saying, it wasn't an accident, it wasn't an unforeseen tragedy. So just like interestingly in Acts four in his sermon where Peter quotes from the same Old Testament passage about Christ being the cornerstone, you know, it was prophesied long before. And so the doctrine of God's eternal decree, I think finds v vivid illustration even here. This is all the Lord's doing. Yeah. And even the wicked rejection of the Messiah is serving this purpose, this sovereign purpose of God's great exaltation. And so it's fascinating, and we should marvel at the fact that, again, like God means what he says when he says like He uses what is weak to overcome that which is strong, or to embarrass the strong, he uses that which seems foolish. To make the wise themselves, the ones who are actually foolish in the same way.  [00:35:29] Cornerstone Unites Church [00:35:29] Jesse Schwamb: This very stone, which men in their malice cast aside on that day. God is in his wisdom setting as this chief cornerstone. And I love like that idea of this phrase, this head of the corner denoting that amazing preeminence of Christ, that Christ is not merely included in the building of the new Covenant church. He is its chief and constituent stone that joining together both like the Jew and the Gentile, finally into one structure. And that's really, I think to your point, that's the great mystery of the hidden ages from the past. That that's the thing which Christ is bringing to like this grand display, like out on the stage in the open, in front of everybody. He's drawing it up, he's calling it to account. And so in that way, the same Jesus that was rejected by men is in God's account of inestimable value. And that should be like, I think, familiar to most of us because like there a form tradition has always insisted that. The true theology always issues in doxology and the cross and exaltation of Christ are not merely these facts, which we give these intellectual ascent, but we, we confess them as mysteries which provoke us to adoration of who God is. It's the excellency of Christ expounding at length, like the wondrous conjunction of Christ's humiliation and his exaltation, which finds its pattern here, rejected by men, glorified by God.  [00:36:50] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah.  [00:36:52] Works Covenant Failures [00:36:52] Tony Arsenal: And, and this is, um, we, we commented in our first, uh, episode on this par ball. This is not isolated to just the rulers of Israel at the time of Christ, right? This is in reality, kind of like a reflection of every failure of the covenant of works. In some sense, every failure to hold the covenant of works boils down to an attempt to make oneself, God. Right. This was Adam's failure in the garden. Um, Eve, Eve was the first person to eat the fruit, but Adam, Adam was responsible for that and he, he also ate the fruit and they, they did so in part because they thought it was useful to make them like God and, and in an illegitimate fashion. And they knew it was an illegitimate fashion. It's not as though Adam and Eve suddenly were like, maybe we can eat the fruit. Maybe like we actually are fine to do it. Like they knew it was still forbidden. Right. They did it anyways. And the Pharisees here, um, are in a real attempt. Um, they are trying to take the role of Messiah for the people. They're trying to be the savior of the people in sort of shepherding and guiding them into this like. Ultra legalistic Puritan, like puritanical in the worst sense, um, kind of approach to the law. Um, this is the, the story of Old Testament Israel, right? What is the first thing that the Israelites do? Um, at Mount Sinai? The first thing they do is try to fashion gods so that they have a tame God that they can control and that they can actually be God's over. So I think this is really key and, and this is where it becomes practical for us, is that. I think we always are faced with a choice, right? There's, there's obviously those who are Christ, who the son is set free. He's set free indeed, and they will never not be his people. Like you never become not justified. If you were justified, you always forever more are justified. Justified is a final. It's, it's the future judgment of God's people dragged and dropped into the present and applied. It's the righteousness of Christ applied. So there, there's never a time where that righteousness is like removed or unapplied, but we are constantly faced with a choice as to whether we want to be the kind of people who render our fruit unto the Lord, uh, as the faithful, the sort of the implied faithful tenants that are going to be brought forward when the, the unfaithful tenants are replaced. Or do we wanna be the people that reap wicked fruit and keep for ourselves? And I think that's, that's really the thing. Like we're either gonna rep. Fruit of wickedness, or we're gonna reap fruit of righteousness. And the only thing to do with fruit of righteousness is surrender it to the Lord. But we often are faced with that choice, like, are we gonna reap our own wicked fruit and keep it all to ourselves right, uh, to our own detriment? Or are we gonna go ahead and be the faithful tenants that give the Lord what he deserves?  [00:39:46] Kingdom Transfer Explained [00:39:46] Jesse Schwamb: We're seeing so much of the simplicity of God here that like you and I have said so many times before that his loving kindness, his long suffering ness is his righteousness, is his justice, is his wrath. And so I think it's helpful, again, to remind ourselves that we're, we are talking, or he specifically is speaking of the kingdom of God here. And again referring to this visible administration of the covenant of grace, not to the inward and invisible kingdom of saving grace, which as you just said, can never be lost from those who possess it, which by the way is a really important distinctive of reform theology. There are many that would disagree with that statement, and I think really much to their harm in, in disagreement with the scriptures themselves, this one in particular, but it is this external administration, the privileges, the ordinances, the oracles of God. That is being transferred from the Jewish nation as a corporate body to a new and broader people of God. And because I know that sounds very extreme, I did look up Calvin and his commentary on this and let me read what he says because this is interesting. I think even this could possibly mis be misunderstood. But here's Calvin who can say it better than I. He says, quote by these words, he means that God would deprive the Jews of the honor and the privilege of being his peculiar people and would call the Gentiles that out of them he might form a church end quote. And going back to what you said earlier, I'm with you. I, I. I mean, this is not, I think as some have wrongly concluded, like replacement theology in like a wooden sense. I, I see this still as like this historical redemptive transition from the typological administration of the old covenant to the eschatological fulfillment of the new. And the elect remnant of Israel is not cast off, but the national like typological privileges are being transferred to the Catholic church, gathered from all nations. And in that, I really do see this wonderful confluence of God's loving kindness, his, his fidelity to the promises that he's made and his wrath being manifested all at once. And somehow Jesus, of course, in complete perfection, can bring that all to bear in this tiny little story.  [00:41:51] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And and isn't it just like the master teacher to like, put all of this baked into this? I mean, that's right. We think of this as like a long parable, like I think,  [00:42:02] Jesse Schwamb: right?  [00:42:02] Tony Arsenal: I think like it's, it's amazing how we think of parables as, you know, like this is a short one. A short one is a couple sentences, a long one is like a half a dozen sentences. Like, and of course like Christ is teaching broader than this. He's teaching more than this. Just, this is what's recorded by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. This is what Matthews preserved for us.  [00:42:22] Stone Breaks or Crushes [00:42:22] Tony Arsenal: But you're right, there's so much baked into this little parable and I think, um, there's something to be said about this idea of like. Not only do those who smash against the, the rock, the, the cornerstone, those who smash against the rock, like those who who fall on the rock are broken to pieces, but also the rock falls on others and smashes them to pieces. Right? And, and there's something to be said about the fact that, and I'm not exactly sure how I wanna articulate this, but it's only those who like recognize the proper place of the rock and don't either let it fall on them or don't smash themselves against it. You know, we always joke about like running through a wall. Like this is not a wall you're gonna run through. Like you're gonna smash into this wall and it's gonna crush you. And if you are, if you're not properly assigning the cornerstone it's placed, right? The cornerstone is, is the stone that's placed in the foundation of a building that all the other stones find their orientation and their proper alignment based on. [00:43:26] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:43:26] Tony Arsenal: You might think of this sometimes. I've heard this articulated as like the, the arch stone. I think it's a little bit different than that. Um, but it, the, the idea is the same, right? Like there's a stone in an arch. If you think of like a classic Roman arch, you have these piles of stones until you put the final arch stone in. That, in that stone is what makes the arch stable. Until that point, either side can fall, but if you don't properly set that arch stone where it's supposed to be, then the whole thing is gonna crush you. It's gonna fall down on top of you at some point. I think this is a little different. This is the cornerstone of a, this is more like the cornerstone of a building. This is the stone that the rest of the building, building is oriented against and is aligned with. If you get that wrong, then you have a, you have like a crooked wall, a wall that's not set, that's not straight. It's not stable. What this is saying and what this, this prophecy right from, from Psalm one 10, I think I should probably look it up, but I haven't yet. But this prophecy that Christ is referring to this, this prophetic statement in the Psalms that he's assuming the audience is familiar with, right? I think that's a really important point. Like he's not only assuming that they're familiar with it, there's rhetorical force of kind of like, of course you understand this principle that there is a cornerstone coming. There is something or someone who is coming that all other things will be measured against. And if you're either in alignment with this, with this person who is coming or you're out of alignment with reality, this thing is understood by them. It just is so critical and I think like the, the, a lot of the parables don't have explanations built into them. Some of them do. We've talked about some of them. A lot of them don't, this one does, but it's kind of like a really surprising way to explain it. And there's so much, um, the more that I look at this, the more we talk about it, this really is so similar to David and Nathan, right? Right. When with the, the affair with Bathsheba, he is saying to the Pharisees, look, you're the man. Like, you're the one here. You're the guy. You guys are the wicked tenants that are gonna, you've killed the prophets. Right? Um, I'm losing my, my timeline a little bit, but John the Baptist either had been executed or would be executed shortly at this point, right? So like the, the most recent prophet either was already killed or, or Christ knew of course he was going to be killed. Um, he's saying, look, you guys are the ones that are doing this and you're going to kill me. Right. And this is obviously what the prophecy is, that you think you're going to come against the cornerstone, but in reality you're going to shatter yourself upon me. You think you're gonna come against me, I'm going to crush you. And rather than say, you know, as ba, you know, as David does, where he repents, he, he fasts and he, he refuses to eat. He's, he's in mourning over both the loss of his infant, but, but more so over his own sin, I think is the picture the text gives us. Um, he's mourning trying to uh, sort of like reverse God's decision, but there's a genuine repentance to it, right? That's where we get Psalm 51, like creating, clean me a clean heart, oh God, renew a right spirit in me. There's none of that for the Pharisees, there's none of that for the sadist of the chief priests. They just continue to smash themselves against this rock, not recognizing that it's actually the rock that is crushing them. [00:47:05] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, it's, it's a bit like, I'm gonna speak like a little maybe beyond my depth here, but there's a little bit of like that Nathan, like Strategem, and then this is where I'm outside my own experience. And then a little bit like maybe like WWE the rock in terms of like. If you want some come and get some, right? It's a little of both. And of course the passage ends very tragically, well ends humorously by them, you know, saying that at some point they were like, they understood in these parables, again, this is one of three of the same kind of topic of variety, but that Jesus was referring to them, which is funny. You wanna be like, yeah, it took a, took a long enough, I guess, guys, but you finally got it. But then that last sentence of like, they still sought to kill him. So to your point, even after all of this, there wasn't repentance. And we do get these, I think, two very distinct judgements that are depicted here, which you've already kinda led us into this first, like, whoever shall fall on the stone shall be broken. You know, to me, I think that's invoking this idea that in this life, there we are, we can be brought to brokenness through the gospel and to fall upon Christ. And repentance. And faith is to be broken in self, in pride and self-righteous. It's a breaking that does lead to healing. But this second judgment, you know the one, but on whomever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder, grind him to dust, I mean. Man, think about what a vivid image that is. I mean, that's like the more terrible of the two. That that's like the, yeah. Final Es logical judgment of those who persist in unbelief and it, it admits there's like no remedy. So there are only two ways to relate to Christ. You either fall upon him willingly in faith and repentance, which is painful, but it is saving, you know, to have him fall upon us in judgment is final in damning, and so that's what Christ presents here. [00:48:48] Psalm 118 in Context [00:48:48] Jesse Schwamb: It's, it's both of these things and you're right, it is brilliant that he goes to Psalm one 18 even that as a setup, because as you've kind of already said, I love to think, of course that's, can you manner the tone in which this was said to these scribes and Pharisees? Because of course the, the secondary indictment here is like, listen, you guys who like your great pride is that, you know, the scriptures really well. Have you read this part is familiar to you. Yeah. Can you tell me where that is? So like, we, we should go there just, just quickly. This is Psalm one 18 because I think that here again is, as I'm hearing it in context. There are some verses surrounding this that I think we might be surprised that they come right on the heels of this idea of the stone. So just a couple verses. In Psalm one 18 being in verse 22, the stone, which the builders rejected, has become the chief cornerstone. This is from Yahweh. It is marvelous in our eyes. Here's the verses that we might not recognize. Come right after it. This is the day which Yahweh has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Oh, Yahweh, save. Oh, Yahweh, succeed. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of Yahweh. We have blessed you from the house of Yahweh. Yahweh is God, and he has given us light by the festival sacrifice with corns to the horns of the altar. You are my God, and I give thanks to you. You are my God, and I exalt you. Give thanks to Yahweh for his good, for his loving kindness endures forever. And so this idea that there's rejoicing in which day, I mean, usually we kinda say that it's like, well, it's a beautiful day out. It's the Lord's day. This is the day that Yahweh is like that. That's true. But also here in particular, it is this blessed day of Yahweh giving the stone, which the builders reject and which has become the chief cornerstone. And that stone is some will run headlong into and shipwreck their lives and others will be crushed underneath it. And guess what? This is the day which Yahweh has made and we're gonna rejoice and be glad in that.  [00:50:41] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah.  [00:50:43] Mark's Angle on Fear [00:50:43] Tony Arsenal: The other thing I think, you know, we. Should, um, maybe not spend any time on, 'cause we're at like, out, like minute 50 of a 60 minute podcast. But just going to, to Mark's version of this parable real quick. Um, starting in verse, uh, this is chapter 12, verse 12. It says, and they were seeking to arrest him, but feared the people for, they perceived that he had told the parable against them. So they left him and went away. And the, the main difference here, the reason I'm reading this is Mark chooses a d. Concerning them. The verb is, or the preposition is Perry. So it's kind of like this idea that he was, he was sort of speaking around them. He was talking about them. Mark uses the, the preposition, proce, which is not, um, not against, in like the same, uh, direct sense. We might use the word against. That would be something like Kada. Um, but he's, he's speaking this parable towards them or to them, um, against them. He's, he's directing the parable at them. And this is, this is, we, we commented on this a little bit in the, the first episode here. Um, he is speaking to the crowds. But he's telling the parable about or against or concerning the Pharisees and the scribes, and they perceive this, right. The, the gospels here don't say that the crowds perceive this. Right. And I think that's key. Like the Pharisees basically look at this and say, uh, we better get this under control because he's talking about us. Right, right. Like, I'm just picturing Paul Washer's. I'm not trying to say Paul Washer is a Pharisee, although some people would probably make that connection. But like I'm, I'm just hearing Paul Washer's voice saying like, I don't know why you're clapping. I'm talking about you. He's speaking to the Pharisees here. And it's interesting because Matthew associates the, the, uh, Pharisees. Cowardice in acting against Christ, uh, because they fear the crowds and because the crowds believe Christ is a parable or is a prophet Mark associates. And again, both of these things are true, right? This is holy scripture. This is inspired, these are not contradictory accounts. This is facets of the same diamond. Mark associates this with, they fear the crowds. Um, because they had taken him. They, they understood that the parable was being spoken against them, right? So there's this element that the Pharisees are not only understanding that the, the parable is about them, they feared them because the crowds believe that Christ is a prophet and that prophet is speaking this parable against them, right? So like they're, they're recognizing full on that it's only a matter of time before the, the general population, the general people that are listening to Christ recognize that he's overturning. Not only the Pharisees, the entire geopolitical nation of Israel, he's overturning the ethnic based reality, the geopolitical based reality, that God's people have a zip code and that zip code is Jerusalem. That zip code is this little si, this little tract of land the size of like Vermont and New Hampshire in the Mediterranean, like off the Mediterranean Sea. He's overturning that. And the, the Pharisees, the educated people, the, the Sadducees, the chief priests, the rulers, they recognize it's only a matter of time before the people understand what Christ is doing. They, they follow him as a prophet and this is what he's prophesying. And

Poutine a signé un décret vendredi augmentant les effectifs militaires de 15 %, une mesure que l'armée a justifiée par les "menaces" associées à l'offensive en Ukraine.Traduction :Putin signed a decree on Friday boosting troop numbers by 15 percent, in a move the army said was due to "threats" associated with the Ukraine offensive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Christmas series! Caesar's decree for a nationwide census couldn't come at a worse time for Mary and Joseph. But perhaps this journey to Bethlehem is exactly what God planned all along.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I've never shared this about autism symptoms!I've just uploaded this training session to the moms in my autism liberation program. IF you're wrestling with God AND symptoms like eloping, aggression, sleepless nights, nonverbal autism, stimming...you need to watch it, too.In my community, prayers for changed symptoms are answered every month (I'll share one of the most amazing case stories in the next episode. ) In this episode, I'm sharing why and how...I only realized this profound truth this week. For me it is a breakthrough for autism recovery.'The Bible has sacred information about your child, the symptoms, and how to deal with them. These verses reveal how to block healing and how to surrender to God's will. It's INSANELY FASCINATING. It's linked to neuroscience, your nervous system, Luke's Gospel, trauma healing, stress types, and emotional healing.Autism symptoms are supposed to bring you closer to God and reveal His plan. If we're focusing on the outcome, trying to get rid of symptoms, we're rebuking THE VERY CROSS that God is using to reveal HIS PLAN and HIS PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE RIGHT NOW. This is HUGE. The disciples made similar mistakes when they rebuked the children, and Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me". Are you bringing your child to Jesus through the dark valley, and are you coming to Him as a child?You might also like: Final wake-up call for autism moms hereAND: AUTISM RECOVERY IS BECOMING UNBEARABLE here WANT TO START YOUR AUTISM LIBERATION JOURNEY?REDUCE YOUR CHILD'S SYMPTOMS Without the hamster wheel of diets, protocols, tests, and supplements. Join the PROGRAM HERE.LIVE SUMMER EVENTPs: I'm hosting a LIVE 5-day online BIBLICAL autism liberation training in June. Seats are limited - and the price is only 79GBPIf you want to join the waitlist, sign up here. 2 ways to work with me Autism symptoms are not always (but sometimes)  spiritual. My son lost the symptoms that gave him the diagnosis, and lives a neurotypical life (independently) I have coached moms for 20 years. 1️⃣ Free consultationSend me a list of symptoms and what you've tried so far. I'll audit your child's issues and tell you what triggers your child's symptoms, and plan next steps to address them to get less stimming, tantrums, eloping, sensory issues, sleeplessness, and aggression without tests, protocols, or battling with your child. Write "audit" in the subj line to book a call with me. We can also connect via Telegram if you hate Zoom. 2️⃣ The Christian Autism Liberation Program (30 spots left for 2026/2027)Reduce symptoms noticeably.  Without the hamster wheel of holistic healing, tests, or extreme diets.InstagramPodcast/free guides and blogYoutube

"That's her preference: not knowing I'm there." Was Zaslow actually watching the Carolina Hurricanes and Ottawa Senators during his Tablet Time? Would Miami Heat fans feel like Bam Adebayo is a superstar if he weren't actually on the team already? Should the New York Knicks and Jalen Brunson be worried? Is Dan's pronunciation of "Boricua" worse than the Pirates broadcasters'? We'll answer every one of these questions before Zaslow's wife, Tamara, joins the show. Today's cast: Dan, Zaslow, Chris, Jeremy, Mike, Roy, and Tony. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices