Podcast appearances and mentions of egypt exodus

In this sermon, Pastor Jake unpacks Revelation 15 and invites us to “follow the smoke” of God's presence through the wilderness of this age. Drawing rich parallels between Revelation and the Exodus story, he shows how the same fire that judges evil (Revelation 15:1, 7–8; Exodus 9–12) becomes protection and sanctuary for those who stand in the “burned over place” of the cross (Isaiah 53:4–6; Galatians 2:20).Key themes include:New Exodus & the WildernessSee how Revelation presents the church as God's people on a wilderness journey (Revelation 12:6, 14; 15:2–4), echoing Israel's path from Egypt to the Promised Land (Exodus 14–17; Deuteronomy 8:2–3). We are learning to guard our allegiance to the Lamb (Revelation 14:1–5) and resist the dragon, the beasts, and Babylon (Revelation 12–13; 17–18).Plagues, Justice, and the Prayers of the SaintsExplore how the seven bowls of wrath (Revelation 15:1, 7; 16:1–21) mirror the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7–12) and are connected to the prayers of the saints (Revelation 5:8; 8:3–5). God's judgment is His measured, righteous response to evil (Romans 2:5; 2 Peter 3:9–10) and His answer to our longing for justice (Luke 18:1–8).Sea of Glass & Song of Moses and the LambJohn's vision of the sea of glass glowing with fire (Revelation 15:2) recalls Israel standing safe on the far side of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21–31). At the very center of judgment imagery is worship: the people of God singing the song of Moses and the Lamb (Revelation 15:3–4; Exodus 15:1–18; Psalm 98:1–3). Worship and presence are inseparable (Revelation 4–5; John 4:23–24).Smoke, Glory, and the Way InThe temple filled with smoke (Revelation 15:5–8) points back to God's glory filling the tabernacle and making it unenterable (Exodus 40:34–35) and the temple scenes of Isaiah and Ezekiel (Isaiah 6:1–7; Ezekiel 10:3–4). Pastor Jake shows how this is not exclusion but invitation: the Lamb is both sacrifice and high priest (Hebrews 4:14–16; 9:11–14; 10:19–22), the only way into God's presence (John 14:6).From there, the message presses home three Spirit-formed works in our wilderness journey:Provision – Learning dependence as God provides in supernatural ways (Exodus 16–17; Matthew 6:25–34; Philippians 4:19). True maturity is not independence from God but joyful reliance on Him (John 15:5).Protection – Living boldly in a world where the dragon wages war on the church (Revelation 12:17; 13:7), yet knowing that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:31–39; John 10:27–30; Psalm 91:1–4).Preparation – Allowing the wilderness to expose and sanctify our hearts (Deuteronomy 8:2; 1 Peter 1:6–7; James 1:2–4). Through community, correction, and surrender, we are being formed into a people ready for honorable use (2 Timothy 2:20–21) and for the age to come (Revelation 21:1–5).If you're walking through fire, wrestling with dependence, or facing spiritual opposition, this message calls you to stand in the finished work of Jesus, follow the smoke of His presence, and trust His provision, protection, and preparation in the wilderness.

February 22,2026

I call out to Isaiah: اخرج من الكتب القديمة (ukhruj min al-kutub al-qadīmah), come out of the old books as they came out. The world needs you now.Mahmoud Darwish said it under the siege of Beirut, in 1982, watching human flesh hung from the walls over the openings of the Old Testament. He knew what most of us still do not: that the scroll does not stay on the shelf. The prophet steps off the page. Each time the Gospel of Luke is proclaimed, Isaiah walks the streets of any empire that is using his book to justify injustice. The suffering slave, the mešullam (Isaiah 42:19), from the root ש־ל־מ (šin-lamed-mem), the one at peace, made whole through submission, comes out of the scroll without relent to face every generation each time the empire thinks it has buried him, and in every generation he is heard again, standing in the Decapolis, proclaiming what great things God has done (Luke 8:39).This is the test Luke puts to you, first at Gerasa, and then at the Commission of the Twelve.The Shepherd arrived on the contested shore, the Decapolis, ten cities imposed by Rome on Syro-Arabian nomadic land, and he did what the mešullam does. He drove the legion of Rome into the sea (Luke 8:32-33), the way Moses drove Pharaoh's chariots into the sea (Exodus 14:27-28), and the people of the city did exactly what the wilderness generation did at the meat-pots of Egypt (Exodus 16:3; Numbers 14:2-4). They said: “Leave us alone. We were better off in slavery.” They begged the Shepherd to go (Luke 8:37). And he did. The boat pulled away from the shore of Gerasa, and that boat was ἀποτινάσσω (apotinasso), the sandal shaken at the threshold of the entire region, the verb נטשׁ (naṭaš), from the root נ־ט־שׁ (nun-ṭet-šin), written across the water (1 Samuel 10:2; Jeremiah 12:7), the dust of the God who marches forward, deposited on the coastline of a city that loved its bondage. “I have forsaken my house. I have abandoned my heritage” (Jeremiah 12:7). The Gerasenes were cowards, and the Shepherd honored their cowardice the way the text always honors cowardice: he left them to it.But he did not leave the city.He sent the found man back.The Shepherd shook the dust and sent the prophet back into the city that had just been sealed with it. ὑπόστρεφε εἰς τὸν οἶκόν σου, καὶ διηγοῦ ὅσα σοι ἐποίησεν ὁ θεός (hupostrephe eis ton oikon sou, kai diegou hosa soi epoiesen ho theos), “return to your house, and describe what great things God has done for you” (Luke 8:39). That ὑποστρέφω (hupostrepho) is the root ש־ו־ב (šin-waw-bet), the turn God commands into the place where his name has been denied. Abraham returning from the valley of kings (Genesis 14:17). Moses returning to the mountain still breathing the stench of the calf (Exodus 32:30-31). Gideon returning to the camp (Judges 7:15). The found man is deployed into Greco-Roman imperial territory, as the suffering slave made whole through submission, and his presence in that city is a standing rebuke. A living testimony of mercy refused and judgment invited. He is Isaiah coming out of the old books. He is the mešullam walking the streets.The Gerasenes were blind with the blindness of Isaiah 6: “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, lest they see with their eyes and turn” (Isaiah 6:9-10; cf. John 12:40; Matthew 13:14-15). That is the blindness God imposes on the arrogant so that his judgment is total for the sake of the poor's deliverance (Isaiah 61:1-2; Luke 4:18-19). The refusing city is blind in that sense. They saw the legion go into the sea but could not see what was staring them in the face.But the found man was blind with the blindness of the suffering slave in Isaiah 42: “Who is blind but my slave, or so deaf as my messenger whom I send?” (Isaiah 42:19). The mešullam. He did not see; he trusted that God saw on his behalf. He did not speak for himself; he spoke what Jesus sent him to speak (Luke 8:39). He carried nothing into the streets of the Decapolis except the command of the one who had found him.This is the commission Luke 9 delivers to the Twelve.συγκαλεσάμενος δὲ τοὺς δώδεκα (sunkalesamenos de tous dodeka), “having called the Twelve together,” ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς δύναμιν καὶ ἐξουσίαν (edoken autois dunamin kai exousian), “he gave them power and authority,” καὶ ἀπέστειλεν αὐτοὺς (kai apesteilen autous), “and he sent them out” (Luke 9:1-2). With no staff. No bag. No bread. No money. No second tunic (Luke 9:3). Why? Because the suffering slave carries nothing. Because the mešullam does not defend himself. Because his Father said, “Be still, I am the one who fights for you, not you” (Exodus 14:13-14). Because if the Twelve carried a bag, they would be carrying David's crutch: the five smooth stones in the shepherd's pouch (1 Samuel 17:40); if they carried a second tunic, they would be hedging against the Father's provision (Matthew 6:25-33); if they carried bread, they would be trading in the coin of the city they were sent to judge. They are sent as the found man was sent: empty-handed, blind in the blindness of trust, deployed into contested territory as the living proclamation that the Lord's Shepherd has arrived.And at every threshold, one of two things happens. The household receives them, μένετε (menete), “remain” (Luke 9:4). What Paul commands as στήκετε (stekete, Galatians 5:1), ὑπομονή (hypomone, Romans 5:3-4), what the Qurʾan names صمود (ṣumūd) from the root ص-م-د (ṣād-mīm-dāl) (Qurʾan 112:2), this is your test, this is your Decapolis, this is the house where the prophet is received, or the house refuses them, and they ἀποτινάσσετε τὸν κονιορτὸν (apotinassete ton koniorton), they shake the dust (Luke 9:5), as the Shepherd shook it when the boat pulled away from Gerasa, the אָבָק (ʾabaq), from the root א־ב־ק (ʾalef-bet-qof), of Deuteronomy 28 (Deuteronomy 28:24). The cloud of the feet of the marching God in Nahum (Nahum 1:3). The plague-powder of Exodus 9 (Exodus 9:8-9). Deposited on the doorframe of the house that refused. The refuser نبذوه وراء ظهورهم (nabadhūhu warāʾa ẓuhūrihim), from the root ن-ب-ذ (nūn-bāʾ-dhāl), who casts the Book behind his back (Qurʾan, Sūrat Āl ʿImrān آل عمران “The Family of ʿImrān” 3:187; cf. Sūrat al-Baqarah البقرة “The Cow” 2:101). Two gestures, one movement. The Book behind the refuser's back. The dust behind the messenger's sandal. Both remain, recorded as evidence against those who reject the prophet until the Hour.The dust on the threshold and the prophet in the house are the same testimony. The dust is the judgment that severs the refusing city from its false peace. The prophet is the judgment that walks the streets of the city that refused, until the poor of that city hear and turn. Mercy is not leniency against judgment. Judgment itself is hope (Isaiah 26:8-9). Judgment is what cuts off your false hope in the sons of men (Psalm 146:3), the Satan who rules human institutions (2 Thessalonians 2:4, 9), so that in your darkness you can be found by the fierce light of God's voice (John 1:5; cf. Qurʾan, Sūrat al-Nūr النور “The Light” 24:35). The dust falls and the prophet walks, and both are the arm of the Lord that Isaiah names (Isaiah 53:1), revealed to whomever will believe the report (John 12:38).This week I discuss Luke 9:5. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

April 24, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Easter 4 - Psalm 66:3, 5, 8-9; antiphon: Psalm 66:1-2Daily Lectionary: Exodus 39:32-40:16; Luke 8:22-39“Come and see what God has done.” (Psalm 66:5) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. King Hezekiah is the best king Judah had since David (2 Kings 18:1-3). Like David, he fights the Philistines. He expands Judah's land and he restores true worship (spelled: F-A-I-T-H) by getting rid of the “high places” forbidden in Deuteronomy 12:10-14. He smashes the Asherah pillars and crushes the bronze serpent of Moses, to which Judah burned incense (2 Kings 18:4).  However, the mighty Assyrians under Sennacherib are on the move. Judah faces the same fate as the Northern Kingdom. In the “fourteenth year” of King Hezekiah (Isaiah 36:1 – a clue that suggests the events of Isaiah 36-39 are similar to Passover – see Leviticus 23:5), the Assyrians taunt the Jerusalemites by contending that they should not expect Hezekiah or the LORD to save them.  Why? Because no gods have been able to stand against Assyria! Sounds like Pharaoh, “Who is the LORD?” (Exodus 5:2). Hezekiah takes the derisive letter into the temple and spreads it before the LORD. He asks God to hear the Assyrian blasphemies Assyrians and defend Himself. “So now, O LORD our God, save us, please, from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you, O LORD, are God alone,” (2 Kings 19:19; also Isaiah 36:18-20; 37:1-10). The LORD humbles the gods of Assyria (Isaiah 37:21-29) just as He did with the gods of Egypt (Exodus 12:12). The “angel of death” passes through the Assyrian camp by night and slaughters 185,000 of them (Isaiah 37:36; cf. Exodus 12:23).  Isaiah 38 tells the story of Hezekiah's illness and recovery. Hezekiah offers a psalm of thanksgiving (38:19-20). The “angel of death” slaughtered the Assyrians but passed over Hezekiah. In a sense, Judah has experienced a new Passover or a Passover 2.0 with the angel of death delivering her – this time from the Assyrians. No wonder Psalm 66, first written because of what we have just reviewed, exhorts the people of the Old Testament or any Christian to “come and see what God has done.” And to give “him glorious praise.” King Hezekiah sure did!  We pray this psalm in response to the greater exodus (Luke 9:31) that the LORD Jesus did for us and for our salvation when He suffered (including all the mockery), died, and rose on the third day. He crushed the enemy Satan's head. He achieved and accomplished our salvation through the shedding of His blood from His crucified body. On the night when He was betrayed, during the context of a Passover meal, Jesus instituted His Supper, by which He gives us His crucified, risen, and ascended Body and Blood to eat and drink, with the promise that all our sins are forgiven (Matthew 26:26-28). Jesus is God FOR YOU! In the Lord's Supper, “come and see what God has done for you” and gives you. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. LORD Jesus Christ. Thank you for saving me on the cross. I trust You. Amen. 

Did the Exodus really happen—and can we trace it today? From the Egyptian Museum to the possible crossing site of the Red Sea, the journey raises powerful questions. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace as Exodus Found – Part 1 begins, exploring the evidence and what it means for the truth of Scripture. Join the adventure!

  Church Life, “A Providential Plot”                     Acts 23:12-35The Conspiracy (vv. 12-22) The Communication (vv. 23-30) The Control (vv. 31-35)            - Providence Through Prayer:  - The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 18 & Ezek. 16).- Israel's deliverance from Egypt (Exodus).- Christ's resurrection (Psa. 22:19–22).- The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Jo. 14).- Your conversion

Israel’s presence in Egypt is often debated by scholars, but it serves a vital function in the biblical narrative. | Exodus | Series: Going Home the Long Way (Exodus)

In this episode, we'll be studying Exodus chapter 7 through 13. Some material that you'll find very familiar to you. This is, of course, the intriguing story of the children of Israel coming out of captivity because God spared His people, and the type that became for all of the covenant people to this very day.

April 6–12: “Remember This Day, in Which Ye Came Out from Egypt”Exodus 7–13Plague after plague afflicted Egypt, but Pharaoh still refused to release the Israelites. And yet God continued to demonstrate His power and give Pharaoh opportunities to accept “that I am the Lord” and “there is none like me in all the earth” (Exodus 7:5; 9:14). Meanwhile, Moses and the Israelites must have watched with awe at these manifestations of God's power on their behalf. Surely these continued signs confirmed their faith in God and strengthened their willingness to follow God's prophet. Then, after nine terrible plagues had failed to free the Israelites, it was the tenth plague—the death of the firstborn, including Pharaoh's firstborn—that finally ended the captivity. This seems fitting because in every case of spiritual captivity, there truly is only one way to escape. It is only the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Firstborn—the blood of the Lamb without blemish—that will save us.A Come Follow Me Podcast For Kids Primary Podcast Welcome to Come Follow Me Kids! We are a scripture study podcast that accompanies the Come Follow Me Manual by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We play games, sing songs, and tell stories to go along with the scriptures. This year we are specifically studying the Old Testament. We sometimes use audio clips from the Friend Magazine and other church sources, however we are not officially sponsored by the church in any way. If your children would like a free baptism shout out or to be guests on this podcast, email us at comefollowmekidsposcast@gmail.com. If you like this podcast, please leave us a review. Thank you!

Join Pastor Ryan and Sean as they dive deeper into the Exodus series and continue the conversation around Encountering God.Check out the Stories of Hope podcast:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPe4iZS-2t-r7AmWbx1RX9AN5M67rM9anStay in touch with us on Instagram | Facebook | Spotify - True Hope ChurchVisit our Website:https://www.truehopechurch.org

This message warns and exhorts believers to remain faithful amid growing cultural and spiritual opposition, drawing parallels between modern society and biblical patterns of judgment and deliverance, emphasizing that God has always revealed His plans to His people (Isaiah 46:10), as seen in His warning to Abraham before judging Sodom (Genesis 18:17–33) and His rescue of the righteous like Lot (Genesis 19), reminding the church that tribulation is not avoided but endured by God's people (2 Timothy 3:12), that Sodom's sins included pride, abundance, idleness, and neglect of the poor (Ezekiel 16:49), and that God knows how to rescue the godly while reserving the unjust for judgment (2 Peter 2:6–10), cautioning that greater revelation brings greater accountability (Matthew 11:23–24), affirming that believers are not appointed to wrath but will face suffering, unity-testing trials that refine faith, warning against isolation from the body of Christ (Luke 16:8, 1 Corinthians 15:33), encouraging discernment in a deceptive world, and pointing to the consistent biblical pattern of refuge through judgment—from Noah's ark (Genesis 6–9, 2 Peter 2:5), to Israel in Egypt (Exodus 7–14), to the fiery furnace (Daniel 3), culminating in Christ's revealed prophecy meant to prepare, not hide truth from the church (Revelation 1:1–3, Revelation 21:8), urging believers not to fear but to persevere in faith, love, and obedience, trusting that God redeems through tribulation and preserves His people to the end. You can connect with Moriel in more locations than just YouTube! Check out all our official links on the About page: https://www.youtube.com/c/MorielTVministries/about.

A sermon from our series on the book of Exodus. Date: 15 March 2026 Speaker: Jeremy Wright Exodus 4:18-7:13 www.stmatthews.com.au/unichurch

Sunday Evening Service - March 8, 2026 Tate Fritz Exodus 4:27-6:1

A sermon from our series on the book of Exodus. Date: 01 March 2026 Speaker: Ben Smart Exodus 1-2 www.stmatthews.com.au/unichurch

February 11, 2026

8th February Moses Flees Egypt- Exodus 2:1-15 by Robertson Anglican Church

Thursday, February 5, 2026

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Read OnlineJohn the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. He is the one of whom I said, ‘A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.'” John 1:29–30Central to the Jewish faith was the Feast of Passover, the commemoration of God's deliverance of His people from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12). In Jesus' time, Passover was one of three major annual feasts during which the Jews made a pilgrimage to the Temple in Jerusalem. Additionally, the Feast of Weeks celebrated the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai and the first fruits of the harvest (Leviticus 23:15-22), and the Feast of Tabernacles recalled the Israelites' wandering in the desert and celebrated God's providence (Leviticus 23:33-43).Recall the first Passover meal. Moses instructed the people to sacrifice an unblemished lamb, mark the doorposts of their homes with its blood, and eat the lamb with unleavened bread and bitter herbs in haste, ready to depart. This act of faith and obedience protected them from the angel of death who passed over the marked houses, sparing the firstborn of Israel, while striking down the firstborn of Egypt. The Passover thus became a perpetual memorial of God's saving power and His covenantal faithfulness to His people.Because of the Passover, the idea of a sacrificial lamb was intimately familiar to the Jewish people. The Jews were also familiar with the prophecy in Isaiah 53—often referred to as the Suffering Servant—in which the servant of the Lord is described as “a lamb led to the slaughter,” who bears the sins of many (Isaiah 53:7, 10–12). Additionally, each morning and evening, a lamb was sacrificed in the temple as a continual offering for sin (Exodus 29:38–42).As Jesus began His public ministry, the first thing said of Him came from John the Baptist: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” His words would have resonated within the minds and hearts of John's disciples. His disciples believed that John was a great prophet and the forerunner of the Messiah, sent to prepare the way for the Lord. They saw him as a holy man who called for repentance and renewal, and some even wondered if he himself might be the Christ, though John consistently denied this.Because John's ministry was one of preparation for the Messiah, his disciples would have anticipated the Messiah's imminent arrival. Imagine the excitement, surprise, questions, uncertainty, and hope that would have filled their minds and hearts as they listened to John's prophecy about Jesus. John continued, “He is the one of whom I said, ‘A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.'”Though John's proclamation about Jesus took on a powerful significance for his disciples that first moment that he revealed Jesus as the Lamb of God, John's words must resonate within each of us today. Now that the Christmas Season is complete and we enter into Ordinary Time, we are invited to embrace Jesus' public ministry, with all His teachings and Paschal Sacrifice, as something extraordinary in our lives. We must approach His ministry with the same hope, enthusiasm, excitement, and anticipation that John's disciples experienced. Reflect today on the moment when John the Baptist's disciples heard him proclaim, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” Like them, strive to see Jesus with new eyes and hopeful anticipation as we begin Ordinary Time. This liturgical season marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry, and it must also be a renewed beginning of His works in your life. Follow Him without reserve, allowing Him to take away your sins and share in His life and love. Most holy Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, I choose to follow You, for You are the Messiah, the Son of God. As we enter into Ordinary Time, please give me the grace to embrace Your public ministry in an extraordinary way. May Your working in my life begin anew, transforming me and leading me to the freedom won by Your Paschal Sacrifice. Jesus, I trust in You.Image via Adobe StockSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

The Exodus Plagues: Darkness and Death Point to Messiah's Victory The final plagues of Egypt reveal more than historical judgment. They prophetically foreshadow the redemptive work of Yeshua, who conquered both darkness and death on our behalf. When Yahweh brought thick darkness over Egypt for three days, it was judgment against Ra, the sun deity. Yet in Goshen, the Israelites dwelt in light (Exodus 10:23). This contrast mirrors Yeshua's declaration: "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12). Just as darkness covered the land during His crucifixion (Luke 23:44-45), Yeshua entered that darkness to break its power over us. The tenth plague struck Egypt's firstborn at midnight, fulfilling Yahweh's warning in Exodus 4:22-23. Only those protected by the lamb's blood were spared. Yeshua, called "the firstborn over all creation" (Colossians 1:15), became our Passover Lamb. He bore the judgment we deserved, marking us with His blood so that death passes over us. The mixed multitude leaving Egypt (Exodus 12:38) foreshadows how Yeshua grafts all nations into Israel's covenant. Through Mashiach, we move from darkness to light, from death to life. At history's darkest hour, Elohim accomplished our greatest deliverance, inviting us to His table where one Torah applies to both native and foreigner alike.   watch on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/j04OPcE43EI Check it out on Vimeo here:  www.vimeo.com/ruach Have you read the Parsha yet? Check out the portion read by Will Spires  here: https://youtu.be/KyieCyWk0YI?si=zJ03Y1CzN1UFzPKg   If these have been a blessing to you please consider donating to help us continue to put these teachings out. You can donate at https://www.ruachonline.com/donate    If you like this video and would like to know more about Ruach Ministries International you can check us out on many venues: website: www.RuachOnline.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/RuachMinistries  Twitter: @RuachTweets Vimeo: www.vimeo.com/Ruach  YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/theruachlife  Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruachminintl  podcast: https://stone2flesh.podbean.com/  podcast on iTunes: https://bit.ly/2mb9xZX  & Patreon https://www.patreon.com/Ruach

a) Moses Returns to Egypt (Exodus 4:18-31)b) Moses Requests, Pharaoh Retaliates (Exodus 5:1-21)c) God Promises Deliverance (Exodus 5:22-6:13)

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Pastor John Brown | Exodus 13:17-15:21 | Denia Community Church - Denton, TX | deniachurch.com

Israel leaves EgyptExodus 12-13Matthew FanningBelievers in Grace Fellowshipwww.believersingrace.com

The Plagues of Egypt  Exodus 7-9 Matthew Fanning Believers in Grace Fellowship www.believeringrace.com

Have you ever wondered if God is really speaking to you—or how to actually hear Him? In this intimate and powerful episode, Petia Kolibova Burns shares three deeply personal stories from the last 48 hours that prove God is always speaking—through people, through Scripture, and through unexpected confirmations. From a prayer answered within the hour to a spontaneous prophetic word during worship, to a direct confirmation from her husband's Bible study mentor—this episode is a living testimony that God hears, sees, and responds. Petia also opens up about her current season of life: being pregnant, caring for a toddler, and choosing faith over fear as she navigates this time of inward reflection and growth. Whether you're feeling spiritually dry, doubting your path, or just craving connection with God—this episode will remind you that your Father is near. Always. What You'll Learn: - 3 unexpected ways God spoke to Petia in 48 hours  - Why staying in the Word matters (especially when you're overwhelmed)  - How to recognize confirmation from the Holy Spirit through others  - The power of sharing your testimony unapologetically  - How to stop looking back at “Egypt” so you can enter your promised land  Bible Verses Mentioned: - The Psalms (exact reference not mentioned, but referenced in the context of comfort and protection)  - Reference to the Israelites looking back at Egypt (Exodus 16, Numbers 11)  Listener Challenge: Reflect on your own life—where has God already answered you? Where might He be speaking right now through people, scripture, or situations? Stay in His Word and make room to listen. Resources & Links:

# Understanding the Second Commandment: Worship in Spirit and Truth In this Bible study session, we delve deep into the essence of the first two commandments, with a particular focus on the second commandment as outlined in **Exodus 20:4-6**. This commandment not only defines how we should worship but also warns against the dangers of idolatry. ## The First Commandment: Prioritizing God We begin with a brief overview of the first commandment: "You shall have no other gods before me" (**Exodus 20:3**). This commandment lays the foundation for all others by establishing that God must be our sole priority. While we acknowledge that no other gods truly exist, the concept of other gods can distract us from our Creator, thus the emphasis on prioritizing God above all. ## The Second Commandment: How We Worship The second commandment, found in **Exodus 20:4-6**, is more nuanced: - **Exodus 20:4**: "You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below." - **Exodus 20:5-6**: "You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God..." This commandment is about the manner of our worship. God warns against creating images as objects of worship, emphasizing that He is a jealous God who desires our exclusive devotion. ## Understanding God's Jealousy The concept of God's jealousy might seem unsettling because human jealousy often leads to negative outcomes. However, God's jealousy is rooted in His desire for our hearts and identity. Unlike human jealousy, which is often about possession, God's jealousy is righteous and seeks to protect our relationship with Him. - **Possession**: God desires our hearts fully devoted to Him.- **Identity**: God's identity is tied to His redemptive acts, such as leading His people out of Egypt (**Exodus 20:2**). ## Consequences and Blessings God outlines the consequences of breaking the second commandment and the blessings of keeping it: - **Punishment**: "Punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me."- **Blessing**: "Showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments" (**Exodus 20:5-6**). This warning is not about generational curses but rather about the continuation of sin through generations. Each generation has the choice to either follow or stray from God's commandments. ## Application: Worship in Spirit and Truth In applying the second commandment today, it's crucial to avoid idolizing anything created, whether material possessions or even religious artifacts. Our trust and hope should be firmly placed in God. - **Worship in Spirit**: Recognize God as spirit, transcending all material forms.- **Worship in Truth**: Follow the true path established by Jesus Christ, who is "the way, the truth, and the life" (**John 14:6**). In conclusion, the second commandment guides us to worship God authentically, without the interference of idols or images. By prioritizing God and worshiping in spirit and truth, we align ourselves with His desires and receive His blessings across generations.

Jesus Delivered Us (2) (audio) David Eells – 6/25/25 I'm going to continue speaking about how Jesus has delivered us. When the Syrophoenician woman asked Jesus to deliver her daughter in (Matthew 15:21-28), who was “grievously vexed with a demon” (Mat.15:26) … He answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread and cast it to the dogs. Deliverance is for God's people; deliverance is “the children's bread.” Those who think they can go and just cast demons out of any lost person do not know anything about deliverance. In the first place, it's a very dangerous thing to do. We are the ones who are in covenant with God, the covenant being deliverance from the curse of sin and of death (Rom.8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus made me free from the law of sin and of death.). This is our covenant. We have a right to total deliverance from bondage of the flesh and from bondage to demon spirits. We have the right, but that does not mean we will attain it. The right to deliverance comes when we receive knowledge and understanding of the promises, and then we enter into those covenant promises by faith. The Bible says in (Heb.4:3) …the works were finished from the foundation of the world. So the only thing remaining is for us to enter into those works through faith. It also says in (Heb.4:2) …but the word of hearing did not profit them (the Jews), because it was not united by faith with them that heard. When the Israelites were supposed to conquer their Promised Land, all they needed to do was what Joshua and Caleb did; they believed the Word of God. Ten of the twelve spies who came back did not believe the Word of God. They believed only what they saw, felt, and heard, and those were the things they confessed. They did not enter into the Promised Land because they brought back a bad report. Let's read that. (Num.13:25) And they returned from spying out the land at the end of forty days. (26) And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, unto the wilderness of Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word unto them, and unto all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land. (27) And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us; and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it. (28) Howbeit the people that dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there. (29) Amalek dwelleth in the land of the South: and the Hittite, and the Jebusite, and the Amorite, dwell in the hill-country; and the Canaanite dwelleth by the sea, and along by the side of the Jordan. (30) And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. (31) But the men that went up with him said, We are not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we. (32) And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had spied out unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to spy it out, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of great stature.  (33) And there we saw the Nephilim, the sons of Anak, who come of the Nephilim: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight. (Num.14:1) And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. This is also a type and shadow. There are ministers today who do not believe that we can be holy. They do not believe we can overcome sin and the devil. God wants to lead us through our Promised Land or Land of Promise to come against our enemies and conquer them all. But you have no authority to cast a demon out of a person who is full of bitterness, unforgiveness, anger, and resentment. You'll waste a lot of breath trying to deliver these people because, without true repentance, they can come back. And you do not know the tormentors; you just know that they are demons. They could be demons of spiritual infirmities or they could be unclean spirits. Anyone wanting to help in the ministry of deliverance should first be filled with the Holy Spirit. We need this gift, and a person who is not filled with the Holy Spirit has no business in any deliverance ministry. In the days of the first disciples, all of them were filled with the Holy Spirit, and they would make sure other disciples were also filled with the Holy Spirit. (Act.19:1) And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper country came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples: (2) and he said unto them, Did ye receive the Holy Spirit when ye believed? And they [said] unto him, Nay, we did not so much as hear whether the Holy Spirit was [given]. (3) And he said, Into what then were ye baptized? And they said, Into John's baptism. (4) And Paul said, John baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people that they should believe on him that should come after him, that is, on Jesus. (5) And when they heard this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. The Holy Spirit is God's authority to know what is going on in people. We are to live under the law of the Spirit (Romans 7:6,8:2,4; etc.). The Old Testament Law, all those rules and regulations, was given to Israel because they did not have the Spirit of God, and so they didn't know what to do when they got into such-and-such a situation. It does not work that way in the New Testament because we have the Holy Spirit to lead us. (Gal.5:18) But if ye are led by the Spirit, ye are not under the law. He guides us in the ministry of deliverance from lusts of the flesh and demons that rule over the lusts of the flesh. The most common reason why people don't get delivered from demons is because they are not right with their brother, and what often happens is that not being right with their brother does not get revealed. Jesus tells us to make things right with our brother before we bring our gift before the altar; otherwise, He will turn you over to the jailer and the jailer will throw you into prison. That “jailer” is the devil. (Mat.5:23) If therefore thou art offering thy gift at the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, (24) leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way, first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. (25) Agree with thine adversary quickly, while thou art with him in the way; lest haply the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. Jesus came to set the captives free. That is what we were, but that is not what we are now supposed to be. We were captive to the lusts of the flesh, representing the old man of the land, who seems like a giant to us, and were captive to the devil. We were in prison, having no hope without God. In Luke 4, Jesus was quoting from Isaiah, (Isa.61:1) The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening [of the prison] to them that are bound… Liberty to the captives has been proclaimed, but not everybody is entering into this liberty being cowards before their giant flesh. Our job as ministers of reconciliation is to minister the same thing that Jesus ministered. (2Co.5:18) But all things are of God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and gave unto us the ministry of reconciliation. Our job is to proclaim the liberty that was given to us at the Cross. This liberty is deliverance from bondage to the flesh man, and deliverance from the demons that rule over the him. Then Jesus went on in (Luk.4:18) … to proclaim release to the captives, and recovering of the sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, (19) to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. He did not quote the second part of the sentence in (Isa.61:2) To proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God… He only quoted the first half of this verse because the day He was ministering in was the day of the Lord's favor, but in these days we're coming to the second half, “the day of vengeance of our God.” While grace and liberty to the captives are being offered, to the extent that we will humble ourselves to the Word is the extent we can enter into it. The Bible says in (Rev.22:18) I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto them, God shall add unto him the plagues which are written in this book: (19) and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the tree of life, and out of the holy city, which are written in this book. Even though we have authority to cast out demons, there won't be anything lasting you can do for a person who is adding to or taking away from the Word. If you think you are going to deliver them from that curse, then you're deceived, and you haven't read Deuteronomy 28 for yourself. So that person should fill themselves with the Word to keep their gift. It was not the devil who put the curse on this earth; it was God. He sent the curse because of man's rebellion. The curse is designed to motivate us to run to the Cross and to make us run to Jesus Christ, Who has the only antidote for the curse. The world likes to deceive us into thinking they can solve our curses for us, but it's not possible. All the world can do is just shove the curse around without solving a thing, and they're about to see the truth of that now. For example, diseases they thought they had wiped out are coming back, and they're coming back stronger than ever because of man's intervention. And mans so called cure is killing a lot of people.  You see, it's not possible to destroy a curse that God has put out there, but He also sent Jesus Christ to deliver us from that curse when we repent. God is so merciful that He sent the curse to turn us away from the wrath of hell. The devil will laugh at you when you want to deliver somebody who has not repented. It's a waste of breath and time, and I know because I've tried to do it. When you have people who have not repented, it doesn't matter that they call themselves “Christians.” It makes no difference, lasting deliverance from the curse comes by repentance, faith, and obedience. There's no way we can get around that.  Jesus said, (Mat.28:18)… All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth. This does not leave anything for the devil if it is not given to him, since Jesus delegated His authority to us when He said, (Mat.18:18) Verily I say unto you, what things soever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and what things soever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. That was delegating authority to us; so how is it then that the devil gets his authority? He gets it from us. When we walk out from under the Blood and walk in the flesh, submitting to demon spirits, we give the devil authority. The only way to take away his authority in that case is through repentance and faith that Christ delivered us. The apostle Paul, by the Holy Spirit, turned a man over to Satan (1Co.5:5) to deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh so that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. Again, you cannot get around this. If you had come to that man after Paul had turned him over to the devil, thinking to cast out all of the demons from him, you would have been deceived because those demons will literally play with you. Sometimes they'll act as if they are gone, and sometimes they will even come out, but they will not be gone for long. When you turn your head, they're right back, and if you ask them, “Hey, what are you doing? I thought I cast you out of there!” They'll tell you, “No, we have a right to be here. They want us to be here.” Or, “They invited us to be here.” I've actually heard demons say that. The demons know when they have a right, and you'll be wasting your time because they'll just deceive you. What does the Bible say will happen if you cast demons out of a person who does not repent? They may come back seven times worse. (Mat.12:43) But the unclean spirit, when he is gone out of the man, passeth through waterless places, seeking rest, and findeth it not. (44) Then he saith, I will return into my house whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. (45) Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more evil than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man becometh worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this evil generation. These were apostate covenant people. Mere flesh can be dealt with by repentance and faith, but sometimes you find that even when you exercise repentance and faith, you are still not having success. That's because demonic oppression or possession is a compelling bondage that goes beyond just mere flesh. It is still repentance and faith that gets rid of the bondage of a demon spirit, but first you have to take away the “stink” that brings them. The “stink” arises when someone is giving in to the flesh or sin. “Flies” represent demons, and the “flies” come to the stink. Beelzebub, the devil, is known as the “Lord of the Flies.” Scripture calls him “Beelzebub the prince of the demons.” (Mat.12:24) But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This man doth not cast out demons, but by Beelzebub the prince of the demons. As long as you have the stink, the flies will come because they have a right to come. If you repent of the stink and get rid of the stink, that will cast out the demon or demons, and they won't be able to come back. Most deliverance happens when people do not have the foggiest idea that they have ever been delivered of anything. A lot of deliverance happens when people get saved. By the depth of their commitment to Christ, they are delivered of many demon spirits. I, and others close to me, have had demons from which we were delivered. We mentioned a man whom Paul turned over to Satan in 1 Corinthians 5:5. Did you know this man was a Christian? So what was it that caused him to be delivered over to Satan? It was the lusts of his flesh. You are protected if you walk under the Blood of Jesus Christ, but willful disobedience is not under the Blood. The Bible warns in (Heb.10:26) For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins, (27) but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which shall devour the adversaries. Willful disobedience brings judgment by the “tormentors,” who are demons. (Matthew 18:34) And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due. Demons can bring forth sickness and corruption of all kinds. When Jesus cast out demons, who was receiving that deliverance? Well, what did Jesus say? (Mat.15:24) … I was not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. It was not the Canaanites who lived around them; it was the Israelites, the people who had God's Covenant promise. Jesus said that casting out demons is for God's children. He did not cast demons out of the world, because deliverance is the “children's bread” (Mark 7:27). This makes it clear that the Covenant people were the only people out of whom Jesus was casting demons. Deliverance is what God has provided for His children. The world is not in covenant with God, and they have no right to deliverance, healing, or any of the promises of the New Covenant, nor the blessings of the New Testament. If it is the “children's bread,” then it is not to be given to the world; however, Jesus had to have been awed at the Syrophoenician woman's great faith. Since He was right on the edge of a new covenant, He counted her as a believer and He gave her what she asked. (Mar.7:26) Now the woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by race. And she besought him that he would cast forth the demon out of her daughter. (27) And he said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread and cast it to the dogs. (28) But she answered and saith unto him, Yea, Lord; even the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs. (29) And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the demon is gone out of thy daughter. The Bible says, (Rom.1:16) For I am not ashamed of the gospel: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. You see, there's a condition in the Gospel that has to be met in order to receive deliverance, healing, soul salvation, and so forth, and that condition is believing what the Gospel says. You may ask, “Does God ever cast a demon out of somebody who does not believe or even think because they are totally possessed?” Yes, He does, but it's usually because they are among the elect and will later believe, like with the demoniac of the tombs (Mark 5:1-20; Matthew 8:28-34; Luke 8:26-39). Sometimes they are oppressing others who have a right to peace. In most cases it takes repentance and belief in order to get deliverance. (Mat.8:16) And when even was come, they brought unto him many possessed with demons: and he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all that were sick: (17) that it might be fulfilled which was spoken through Isaiah the prophet, saying: Himself took our infirmities, and bare our diseases. This word “our” is talking about us. Christians spoke and wrote these words. Jesus took the curse from us. Did He bear the curse for the world? Yes, but it is ultimately to “whosoever will” (Matthew 16:25; Mark 8:34; Revelation 22:17; etc.) Who is “whosoever will?” The Bible says, (Joh.6:44) No man can come to me, except the Father that sent me draw him… The elect will; this is absolutely clear. The elect are those who bear fruit and were chosen before the foundation of the world, as the Bible says. (Eph.1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly [places] in Christ: (4) even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love: (5) having foreordained us unto adoption as sons through Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, (6) to the praise of the glory of his grace, which he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved: (7) in whom we have our redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, (8) which he made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, (9) making known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he purposed in him (10) unto a dispensation of the fulness of the times, to sum up all things in Christ, the things in the heavens, and the things upon the earth; in him, [I say,] (11) in whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will; (12) to the end that we should be unto the praise of his glory, we who had before hoped in Christ: (13) in whom ye also, having heard the word of the truth, the gospel of your salvation,-- in whom, having also believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, (14) which is an earnest (down payment) of our inheritance, unto the redemption of [God's] own possession, unto the praise of his glory. The “elect” are the overcomers who will be standing at the end of their time of testing (Romans 12:21; 1 John 5:4; Revelation 2:7,11,17,26-28; 3:5,12,21; etc.). Many of the called will not, but the elect will have gotten what Jesus was talking about here because the elect are those who bear fruit. (Mat.22:14) For many are called, but few chosen. The Greek word here for “chosen” is the same word for “elect,” eklektos. Many are the called, as we see from when God called the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10; Hosea 11:1-7). He said in (Mat.2:15) … Out of Egypt did I call my son. He also said in (Jud.1:5) Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. You see, “calling” is not “election”; “calling” is on the way to election. “Calling” just means “an invitation,” from the Greek word klētos, “to invite.” Jesus has invited us to partake of the Body and Blood of Christ. If we do this, we will not have any problem bearing fruit. 2Pe 1:10  Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble:  The Bible says, (2Co.7:1) Having therefore these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. So you may be wondering how a Christian can have a demon and the Holy Spirit at the same time. It's simple; let me explain. The body is a temple. (1Co.6:19) Or know ye not that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which ye have from God? and ye are not your own; (20) for ye were bought with a price: glorify God therefore in your body. The ancient manuscripts say, “a temple of the Holy Spirit” because the Temple was threefold (Exodus chapters 25-27). It had an outer court, a holy place, and the Holy of Holies, and the outer court was called the “Court of the Gentiles” (Revelation 11:2). Were Gentiles holy? No, and we have proof from Old Testament examples that evil people did come into the outer court. They even laid hands on the horns of the altar to receive mercy (1 Kings 1:50; 2 Chronicles 23:12;15; Matthew 23:35), and sometimes they found mercy and other times they did not. So we see that evil could come into the outer court, but it could not come into the Holy of Holies. Some people like to say that the Spirit of God will not dwell in an unclean temple. If you're talking about the flesh, the flesh is unclean and it's also the enemy of God. (Rom.8:6) For the mind of the flesh is death; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace: (7) because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be: (8) and they that are in the flesh cannot please God. In fact, when the Bible talks about the lusts of the flesh, those lusts have the same nature as the demons do because the flesh is unclean and it's not going to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven. (1Co.15:50) Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Only the “High Priest” Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, dwells in your “Holy of Holies,” your spirit. The demons do not enter into the spirit. Except for the High Priest, anybody who came into the Holy of Holies was struck dead. (Lev.16:2) And the Lord said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the veil, before the mercy-seat which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy-seat. No evil could go into the Holy of Holies because that was the place of only the High Priest. The Holy Spirit is not dwelling in an unclean temple when He dwells in your spirit. Your spirit is clean. He has to give you a new spirit before He can even come and dwell there. You need to be born again before He can come and dwell in that spirit. (Gal.4:6) And because ye are sons, God sent forth the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Demons come into the flesh with the desire to possess your soul, which is your mind, will, and emotions. The Lord comes into your spirit with the desire to possess your soul. The warfare is between spirit and flesh; God and demons seek to possess the soul. (Act.10:38) Even Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. We've been lied to about the supposed difference between “possession” and “oppression.” “Possession” is when the demon is reaching out of the flesh and into the soul, taking control of the mind, the actions, and the character of the person. If you've ever seen a schizophrenic, where one moment they are given over to the lusts of the flesh, and the next minute they seem to straighten right back up. Is that person possessed or not? They are possessed when that happens and they are not possessed when the demon backs off. The demon is still in them; he hasn't gone anywhere. All he's done is just back out of the soul into the flesh, becoming dormant, and he remains there until the next time he wants to take control. The Holy Spirit is the same way. Just because you have the Holy Spirit does not mean you are being led by the Holy Spirit. Having the Holy Spirit is not even going to save you! (Rom.8:14) For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. You can have the Holy Spirit, but not be led by Him, and it's the same with demons. You can have demons, without the demons being in control. We should desire to give possession of this “land” to the spiritual man (Hebrews 6:4-8). God, through the Spirit, gives our spiritual man the power to possess our soul. When you walk after the flesh, the Bible says you must die. (Rom.8:13) For if ye live after the flesh, ye must die; but if by the Spirit ye put to death the deeds of the body, ye shall live. When you walk after the flesh, you permit the demon's power to reach into your soul to take control of your thinking, actions, and character, your very nature. In the world they call this “schizophrenia,” but it's demon possession. There is only one nature that is the “real you”. The demons like to come into Christians and impart their own thoughts to deceive them into thinking that this is their nature. The demons give themselves up to the lusts of the flesh and then rule the Christians by speaking in their minds and blending into their characters so that they do not even know that it is them. Christians think it's themselves, but those demons can be forced to manifest by the Authority of God. Some of you may have heard or seen the Gospel being preached and demons manifesting in Christians. They are forced to manifest because they hate the Gospel. They hate tongues and they hate the Blood of Jesus. They hate all things that are Godly. If you learn the things that they hate, those are your best weapons against them. Some of you have already found out that these demons can hide in you very tactfully, convincing you that their thinking is your thinking. Thoughts coming through your mind might seem to be yours, but when forced to manifest by the Word of God, you realize they're coming from a demon. Where the Word of God is tormenting these demons, they will manifest, and this is exactly what happened in Jesus' Presence. The Word of God forced them to manifest. (Mat.8:28) And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gadarenes, there met him two possessed with demons, coming forth out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man could pass by that way. (29) And behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time? If you have a repentant person and you command these demons to give their name and to manifest in some way, they will do it. If they have never been commanded to manifest, you may have never actually felt their presence. When they are commanded to do so, they will literally speak out of a person and give their name, but they'll also argue with you and lie to you. They will do all the things that demons like to do. Now it's helpful to have other people alongside, but you can deliver yourself because we have that authority. (2Co.7:1) Having therefore these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. If you suspect something is more than just flesh, then exercise your authority and command those demons to go. Sometimes they will speak in your mind, or you'll get their name in your mind. Sometimes their names will come right out of the person's mouth. Many times, a strong, compelling desire turns out to be a demon, not the flesh, but the devil wants you to think that it is only flesh. We are in the process, called “sanctification,” of being delivered of two things: defilement of flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1). But is your spirit defiled? If you are a Christian, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in a new, clean spirit Who is called the Spirit of Christ in you. (Gal.4:6) And because ye are sons, God sent forth the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, Abba, Father. This is a Christian. God says, (Eze.36:26) A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. 27  And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes… Notice, a “new spirit” and then “My Spirit” or the Holy Spirit. You do not have a defiled spirit, so why does Scripture say to Christians, “let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit”? It's because this defilement of spirit is talking about the defilement of you by demon spirits. This is not talking about the defilement of your spirit because your spirit is the only part of you that is totally white and clean. If it is not, you are not a Christian. The defilement that we have the authority to get rid of is the defilement of our souls by the flesh and evil spirits. Do you know what “self” is in the Bible? It is a synonymous term for the word “soul.” One Gospel will say “self” and another Gospel will say “soul” in a same text in another Gospel. “Self” and “soul” are the same. We want to be delivered of all defilement of our soul by both flesh and spirits. (Col.3:5) Put to death therefore your members which are upon the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry; (6) for which things' sake cometh the wrath of God upon the sons of disobedience: (7) wherein ye also once walked, when ye lived in these things; (8) but now do ye also put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, railing, shameful speaking out of your mouth: (9) lie not one to another; seeing that ye have put off the old man with his doings, (10) and have put on the new man, that is being renewed unto knowledge after the image of him that created him. The Bible tells us in (Eph.4:27) Neither give place to the devil. The Greek word “place” there is a geographic term meaning “region” or “area.” This is the exact thing God talked about when He was cleansing the Promised Land from the pagan tribes that controlled it. (Deu.7:1) When the Lord thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and shall cast out many nations before thee, the Hittite, and the Girgashite, and the Amorite, and the Canaanite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite, seven nations greater and mightier than thou… All these “ites” had their demonic “gods” (Deuteronomy 32:17). If you leave a place for the lusts of the flesh to live in your land, you are going to sin because they will make you sin, so we are not to leave them any place in our land. (Deu.7:2) And when the Lord thy God shall deliver them up before thee, and thou shalt smite them; then thou shalt utterly destroy them: thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor show mercy unto them; (3) neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son. (4) For he will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and he will destroy thee quickly. When Jesus delivered the woman with a “spirit of infirmity” in (Luke 13:11), He said in (Luk.13:16) And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan had bound, lo, [these] eighteen years, to have been loosed from this bond on the day of the sabbath? Jesus called this woman a “daughter of Abraham,” and you might think, “Well, He's just talking about Jews,” yet Jesus never called the literal, physical Jews “daughters and sons of Abraham.” These Jewish leaders and their followers were professing Abraham to be their father, but Jesus totally disagreed with them because a daughter or son of Abraham, like the woman He loosed, is someone who is truly in covenant with God. (Joh.8:38) I speak the things which I have seen with [my] Father: and ye also do the things which ye heard from [your] father. (39) They answered and said unto him, Our father is Abraham. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham. Here's the point: “Ye would do the works of Abraham.” (Joh.8:40) But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I heard from God: this did not Abraham. (41) Ye do the works of your father. They said unto him, We were not born of fornication; we have one Father, [even] God. (42) Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I came forth and am come from God; for neither have I come of myself, but he sent me. (43) Why do ye not understand my speech? [Even] because ye cannot hear my word. (44) Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and standeth not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father thereof. Paul said the same thing; he said that people who walk by faith are the sons of Abraham. (Gal.3:7) Know therefore that they that are of faith, the same are sons of Abraham. Jesus never disagreed with this. This woman who was loosed, got her deliverance because she was a daughter of Abraham. The people who were coming to Jesus were Covenant people, just as we are Covenant people. They had the right of the Covenant and therefore they got healing and deliverance from God. We are proving ourselves through this “trial in the wilderness,” through the things that we're going through, to be either sons of Abraham or sons of the devil. The Bible says in (1Jn.2:6) He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also to walk even as he walked. Sons of the devil in the world have no Covenant rights, and you're just casting the children's bread to the dogs when you try to deliver an unrepentant person (Mark 7:27). You'll have the same problem, too, if you're trying to give deliverance to a Christian who is unrepentant. We are proving who are overcomers, those who truly belong to Christ. They are going to be the ones who are proven to be the Elect of God (Philippians 2:12; 2 Peter 1:10). We can prove ourselves just as much sons of the devil by our actions as these people proved themselves sons of the devil by their actions. Jesus pointed out to them, “No, if you were of your father Abraham, you would do the works of Abraham!” Amen.

Josh Ray's sermon, “When God Turns Off the Lights,” explores the profound moments when God allows darkness to fall—both literally and spiritually—to reveal His greater purpose. Drawing from 1 Peter 2:9, he reminds us that even in the deepest darkness, God calls His people into His marvelous light. Through the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 10:21-23) and Pharaoh's defiance (Exodus 5:2), we see how God's power is displayed when human pride resists His will. Yet, in Exodus 6:1, God promises deliverance, showing that His light will always overcome the darkness. This sermon will challenge and encourage you to trust in God's plan, even when the lights go out, knowing He is working for your ultimate freedom and transformation.

Numbers 3 – The Levites and Their Role in Israelite Worship Numbers 3 details the census and duties of the Levites, the tribe set apart for religious service in Israel. This chapter explains their responsibilities, their unique status among the tribes, and the substitution of the Levites for Israel's firstborn sons. Understanding the historical and cultural context of this passage provides deeper insight into Israel's priesthood and the organization of worship in the ancient Near East. 1. The Role of the Levites (Numbers 3:1-13) Numbers 3 begins by listing the sons of Aaron—Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar—who were appointed as priests. However, Nadab and Abihu died after offering “unauthorized fire” before the Lord (Leviticus 10:1-2). This reinforces the seriousness of priestly duties and the necessity of following God's precise instructions. God then designates the entire tribe of Levi to assist the priests in caring for the Tabernacle, Israel's central place of worship. The Levites are given as a substitute for the firstborn sons of Israel, whom God originally claimed after the Passover in Egypt (Exodus 13:2, Exodus 13:11-16). In ancient cultures, firstborn sons were often dedicated to religious service, but God chose to replace Israel's firstborn with the Levites as a special class of religious servants. Historical Context: •Many ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Mesopotamians, had hereditary priesthoods. In contrast, Israel's priesthood was unique in that it was not open to all Levites—only Aaron's descendants could serve as high priests, while other Levites handled the Tabernacle's maintenance and transport. •The concept of dedicating firstborns to deities was widespread in the ancient world. The Israelites, however, did not practice human sacrifice (as seen in Canaanite religions); instead, they dedicated their firstborn to God's service or redeemed them with a substitute. 2. The Census of the Levites (Numbers 3:14-39) Moses is commanded to count all male Levites from one month old and older. This is different from the earlier military census, which counted men 20 years and older (Numbers 1). The Levites were not warriors but were responsible for religious duties. The Levites were divided into three major clans based on the sons of Levi: •Gershonites (7,500 men) – Responsible for the Tabernacle's curtains and coverings. •Kohathites (8,600 men) – Carried the most sacred objects (Ark of the Covenant, lampstand, altar, etc.). •Merarites (6,200 men) – Managed the structural components (wooden frames, bars, and bases). The total number of Levite males was 22,000. Historical Context: •The organization of religious service based on family groups was common in ancient priesthoods. •The Ark of the Covenant, which the Kohathites carried, was seen as the holiest object in Israel. Similar sacred chests existed in Egypt and Mesopotamia, but Israel's Ark uniquely represented God's presence rather than a physical idol. 3. Redemption of the Firstborn (Numbers 3:40-51) Since the firstborn of Israel originally belonged to God, a substitution was required. There were 22,273 firstborn males, slightly more than the 22,000 Levites counted. To account for the extra 273 firstborns, a redemption fee of five shekels per person was paid to the priests. Historical Context: •Redemption fees were a common practice in the ancient Near East. Five shekels was a significant amount, reinforcing the sacred value of the firstborn. •The use of silver in religious transactions was common in the region. Many cultures had temple-based economies where silver was a primary currency for offerings. Key Lessons from Numbers 3 in Historical Context 1.God's Sovereign Choice – The Levites were chosen to serve instead of the firstborn sons, showing that God's decisions override human customs. 2.Order and Organization – The strict division of Levite duties ensured proper worship, just as ancient temple systems had clear roles for priests and assistants. 3.The Holiness of Worship – The tragic deaths of Nadab and Abihu highlight the importance of following God's instructions exactly in religious practices. 4.The Concept of Redemption – The ransom for the firstborn symbolizes the broader biblical theme of redemption, which is later fulfilled in Christ's sacrifice. Numbers 3 provides a detailed look at Israel's priesthood, reflecting both practical and spiritual principles that set the nation apart from surrounding cultures. The Levites played a crucial role in preserving the holiness of Israel's worship, ensuring that God's presence remained among His people.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Leviticus 23 – The Feasts of the Lord: Biblical and Historical Context Leviticus 23 outlines the seven major festivals (appointed times) of Israel, which were central to their worship and communal life. These feasts served as both religious observances and historical commemorations, reinforcing Israel's identity and relationship with God. Understanding the historical and cultural context of these feasts provides insight into their significance in biblical history and how they compare to similar practices in the ancient Near East. 1. The Sabbath (Leviticus 23:1-3) The chapter begins with the Sabbath, a weekly day of rest and worship. The Israelites were commanded to cease from labor on the seventh day, a concept unique among ancient civilizations, where work was often continuous. Historical Context: •The Babylonians had some form of a seven-day cycle, but their “holy days” were often considered unlucky, unlike the Israelites' joyful Sabbath rest. •In contrast to other cultures where rest was mainly for the elite, the Sabbath was a universal command, applying to all people, including servants and foreigners. •The Sabbath foreshadowed the eternal rest believers would have in God, a theme later expanded in Christian theology (Hebrews 4:9-10). 2. The Feasts of Israel The remaining festivals were divided into spring feasts and fall feasts. These were agricultural and historical in nature, marking both harvest cycles and key moments in Israel's history. Spring Feasts (Passover, Unleavened Bread, Firstfruits, Pentecost) These feasts coincided with the barley and wheat harvests, emphasizing God's provision. A. Passover (Leviticus 23:4-5) •Celebrated on the 14th day of Nisan (first month of the Hebrew calendar). •Commemorated Israel's deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12), when God spared the Israelites who placed lamb's blood on their doorposts. Historical Context: •Other ancient cultures had spring renewal festivals, but Israel's Passover was unique because it celebrated deliverance by God rather than nature gods. •The sacrificial lamb was central, later becoming a powerful symbol of Jesus as the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29). B. Feast of Unleavened Bread (Leviticus 23:6-8) •Lasted seven days after Passover. •No leaven (yeast) was to be eaten, symbolizing purity and separation from Egypt's influence. Historical Context: •Yeast often symbolized corruption in the ancient world. •This feast reminded Israelites of their haste in leaving Egypt and their call to live set apart from pagan nations. C. Feast of Firstfruits (Leviticus 23:9-14) •Took place the day after the Sabbath during Unleavened Bread. •Marked the beginning of the barley harvest by offering a sheaf of the first grain. Historical Context: •Many ancient cultures had firstfruit offerings to their gods, but Israel's offering was unique—it was a thanksgiving act to Yahweh, not a way to manipulate the gods for a better harvest. •This feast foreshadowed Jesus' resurrection, as He is called the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). D. Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) (Leviticus 23:15-22) •Celebrated 50 days (7 weeks) after Firstfruits. •Marked the wheat harvest and included special grain offerings. Historical Context: •Other nations, such as the Egyptians and Canaanites, had harvest celebrations, but Israel's Pentecost was different because it also commemorated God's giving of the Law at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19). •In the New Testament, Pentecost became the day when the Holy Spirit was poured out (Acts 2), marking the birth of the church. Fall Feasts (Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles) These feasts occurred during the fruit and olive harvests and had prophetic significance. E. Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) (Leviticus 23:23-25) •Celebrated on the first day of the seventh month (Tishri). •Involved blowing trumpets (shofars) as a call to repentance. Historical Context: •Trumpet blasts in the ancient Near East signified royal announcements or military alerts. •This feast prepared Israel for the upcoming Day of Atonement, much like New Year's celebrations in other cultures signified a time of renewal. F. Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) (Leviticus 23:26-32) •Occurred on Tishri 10, the most solemn day of the year. •The high priest entered the Holy of Holies to atone for Israel's sins. •Included fasting, confession, and the scapegoat ritual, where one goat was sacrificed and another sent into the wilderness (Leviticus 16). Historical Context: •No other nation had a national day of atonement. •The scapegoat symbolized sin being removed from the community, a concept later fulfilled in Jesus' atoning sacrifice (Hebrews 9:12-14). G. Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) (Leviticus 23:33-44) •Lasted seven days from Tishri 15-22. •Israelites lived in booths (temporary shelters) to remember their time in the wilderness after the Exodus. •A joyful feast of thanksgiving. Historical Context: •Similar harvest festivals existed in Canaanite and Mesopotamian cultures, but Israel's Tabernacles focused on God's provision in history, not fertility gods. •In the New Testament, Jesus referred to Himself as the Living Water during this feast (John 7:37-38), linking it to spiritual refreshment. Key Lessons from Leviticus 23 in Historical Context 1.God's Order in Worship – The festivals were structured and timed to teach Israel about God's sovereignty, history, and future plans. 2.Holiness and Separation – Unlike pagan festivals that often involved immorality and idol worship, Israel's feasts were holy convocations focused on God. 3.Agricultural and Spiritual Meaning – The feasts aligned with harvest seasons but also symbolized redemption, judgment, and restoration. 4.Messianic Foreshadowing – Many feasts were prophetic, pointing to Jesus' death, resurrection, and second coming. Leviticus 23 is one of the most significant chapters in the Old Testament because it outlines God's appointed times for Israel, blending history, prophecy, and practical worship. These feasts not only shaped Israel's national identity but also provided a foundation for Christian theology, as many were fulfilled in Christ.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Leviticus 23 – The Feasts of the Lord: Biblical and Historical Context Leviticus 23 outlines the seven major festivals (appointed times) of Israel, which were central to their worship and communal life. These feasts served as both religious observances and historical commemorations, reinforcing Israel's identity and relationship with God. Understanding the historical and cultural context of these feasts provides insight into their significance in biblical history and how they compare to similar practices in the ancient Near East. 1. The Sabbath (Leviticus 23:1-3) The chapter begins with the Sabbath, a weekly day of rest and worship. The Israelites were commanded to cease from labor on the seventh day, a concept unique among ancient civilizations, where work was often continuous. Historical Context: •The Babylonians had some form of a seven-day cycle, but their “holy days” were often considered unlucky, unlike the Israelites' joyful Sabbath rest. •In contrast to other cultures where rest was mainly for the elite, the Sabbath was a universal command, applying to all people, including servants and foreigners. •The Sabbath foreshadowed the eternal rest believers would have in God, a theme later expanded in Christian theology (Hebrews 4:9-10). 2. The Feasts of Israel The remaining festivals were divided into spring feasts and fall feasts. These were agricultural and historical in nature, marking both harvest cycles and key moments in Israel's history. Spring Feasts (Passover, Unleavened Bread, Firstfruits, Pentecost) These feasts coincided with the barley and wheat harvests, emphasizing God's provision. A. Passover (Leviticus 23:4-5) •Celebrated on the 14th day of Nisan (first month of the Hebrew calendar). •Commemorated Israel's deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12), when God spared the Israelites who placed lamb's blood on their doorposts. Historical Context: •Other ancient cultures had spring renewal festivals, but Israel's Passover was unique because it celebrated deliverance by God rather than nature gods. •The sacrificial lamb was central, later becoming a powerful symbol of Jesus as the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29). B. Feast of Unleavened Bread (Leviticus 23:6-8) •Lasted seven days after Passover. •No leaven (yeast) was to be eaten, symbolizing purity and separation from Egypt's influence. Historical Context: •Yeast often symbolized corruption in the ancient world. •This feast reminded Israelites of their haste in leaving Egypt and their call to live set apart from pagan nations. C. Feast of Firstfruits (Leviticus 23:9-14) •Took place the day after the Sabbath during Unleavened Bread. •Marked the beginning of the barley harvest by offering a sheaf of the first grain. Historical Context: •Many ancient cultures had firstfruit offerings to their gods, but Israel's offering was unique—it was a thanksgiving act to Yahweh, not a way to manipulate the gods for a better harvest. •This feast foreshadowed Jesus' resurrection, as He is called the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). D. Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) (Leviticus 23:15-22) •Celebrated 50 days (7 weeks) after Firstfruits. •Marked the wheat harvest and included special grain offerings. Historical Context: •Other nations, such as the Egyptians and Canaanites, had harvest celebrations, but Israel's Pentecost was different because it also commemorated God's giving of the Law at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19). •In the New Testament, Pentecost became the day when the Holy Spirit was poured out (Acts 2), marking the birth of the church. Fall Feasts (Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles) These feasts occurred during the fruit and olive harvests and had prophetic significance. E. Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) (Leviticus 23:23-25) •Celebrated on the first day of the seventh month (Tishri). •Involved blowing trumpets (shofars) as a call to repentance. Historical Context: •Trumpet blasts in the ancient Near East signified royal announcements or military alerts. •This feast prepared Israel for the upcoming Day of Atonement, much like New Year's celebrations in other cultures signified a time of renewal. F. Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) (Leviticus 23:26-32) •Occurred on Tishri 10, the most solemn day of the year. •The high priest entered the Holy of Holies to atone for Israel's sins. •Included fasting, confession, and the scapegoat ritual, where one goat was sacrificed and another sent into the wilderness (Leviticus 16). Historical Context: •No other nation had a national day of atonement. •The scapegoat symbolized sin being removed from the community, a concept later fulfilled in Jesus' atoning sacrifice (Hebrews 9:12-14). G. Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) (Leviticus 23:33-44) •Lasted seven days from Tishri 15-22. •Israelites lived in booths (temporary shelters) to remember their time in the wilderness after the Exodus. •A joyful feast of thanksgiving. Historical Context: •Similar harvest festivals existed in Canaanite and Mesopotamian cultures, but Israel's Tabernacles focused on God's provision in history, not fertility gods. •In the New Testament, Jesus referred to Himself as the Living Water during this feast (John 7:37-38), linking it to spiritual refreshment. Key Lessons from Leviticus 23 in Historical Context 1.God's Order in Worship – The festivals were structured and timed to teach Israel about God's sovereignty, history, and future plans. 2.Holiness and Separation – Unlike pagan festivals that often involved immorality and idol worship, Israel's feasts were holy convocations focused on God. 3.Agricultural and Spiritual Meaning – The feasts aligned with harvest seasons but also symbolized redemption, judgment, and restoration. 4.Messianic Foreshadowing – Many feasts were prophetic, pointing to Jesus' death, resurrection, and second coming. Leviticus 23 is one of the most significant chapters in the Old Testament because it outlines God's appointed times for Israel, blending history, prophecy, and practical worship. These feasts not only shaped Israel's national identity but also provided a foundation for Christian theology, as many were fulfilled in Christ.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

God, in His sovereign grace, leads us and loves us as a perfect Father, committed to our holiness and happiness through every season of our lives. ---We desire to see the Gospel saturate a people, awakening them by the glory of God to treasure Jesus as better.For more Gospel-centered teaching and resources, including audio and video downloads of our sermons, please visit our website: http://www.thewellchurchok.com/resourcesInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/thewellchurchokFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/thewellchurchok

Psalm 81 WorksheetAs we read Psalm 81, look for clues about what this Psalm was written for. Also look for the place the Psalm switches to God being the one speaking.Asaph's call to Festival worship V. 1-3The opening 3 verses have ______ commands calling the people to the praise of the Festival, making this a Praise psalm.When Jacob is used for Israel instead of Israel, it is often a not so subtle _________________________ of where they came from – sinful Jacob became Israel because of what God had done in his life.Jacob's name can mean to be behind or supplanter. It was given to him at birth when he grabbed his twin brother's heel in the womb as they came out; That's a great name for one who later wrestled with God and had his name changed to Israel, which means “one who struggles with God.” The root consonant of ‘struggle' in Hebrew is SYR; For Israel it is ‘YSR.'Israel's lunar calendar meant their festivals coincided with moon ________________. The new moon was by definition the first of the month.Also in the day of your gladness, in your appointed feasts, and at the beginning of your months, you shall blow the trumpets over your burnt offerings and over the sacrifice of your peace offerings; and they shall be a memorial for you before your God: I am the LORD your God. -Numbers 10:10Yahweh's _________________________ of His deliverance V. 4-7Verses 4-5 seem to confirm the statute referred to is the ______________________ Festival, since it was actually commanded before they actually left Egypt (Exodus 12). That would mean “He” going throughout the land of Egypt would be a reference to the LORD's judgment in the tenth plague.The reference to Joseph in verse 5 seems to be a reference to Joseph's role in preserving Jacob's sons/ Joseph's brothers in Egypt during the famine described at the end of Joseph. Alternatively, it could mean this Psalm was written with the Northern tribes in mind during the time of the divided kingdom (922-722 B.C.) That would mean the Psalm is urging the north not to reject God's design for the entire country.Verse 7 covers the time that Israel wandered for 40 years in the wilderness. God led them, even though they were often stubborn and ungrateful. Time after time He delivered them and answered them “thunderously.” They tested Him and He proved Himself faithful and holy. He tested them and they showed themselves ______________________ and sinful.These are the waters of Meribah, where the people quarreled with the LORD, and through them He showed Himself holy. -Numbers 20:13Yahweh's ___________________________ to His people V. 8-16In verses 8-9 God reminds Israel of the call in the 10 commands to worship Him alone, not ________________________.In verse 10 God is telling them that He delivered them in the past, and provided for their needs – He is the _________________________ God who did that!Verse 11 has to be among the saddest statements in the Bible. No doubt they wanted God's protection and blessing, but they didn't want God _______________________. I wonder how many professing Christians that is also true about.Where in the New Testament do we read the words, “God gave them over?”___________________________God's judgment of sin begins by letting people do the sinful things they are bound and determined to do, and experience the built-in ___________________________ of those sins.Proverbs 14:12God makes clear in verse 14 that if they return to Him He will take care of their ___________________.Verse 15 is a good Old Testament verse for the _______________________ punishment of the those who don't turn to God.The Psalm ends with an additional blessing promised – If people listen to God, turn back to Him, and walk in His ways, He won't just take care of their troubles but He will provide for their needs, fully _________________________ them.

"Dark Days in Egypt" Exodus 1:1-22 The story so far... 1. God's people experience opposition because of their faithfulness 2. God's people grow through affliction 3. God's people fear God more than man "Because I fear God, I will not ____________"

We're wrapping up the book of James—what a journey it's been! If you're looking for your next study, grab the Ecclesiastes Journal now. Imagine your paycheck calling you out, your investment account filing a complaint, or your success story turning against you. That's the powerful image James paints—a scene where the rewards of our labor, when handled unjustly, become witnesses against us in God's courtroom. Their testimony isn't just about the money but the motives behind it. They cry out, “Fraud!” “Cheat!”—their voices so loud and clear that they echo all the way to the throne of heaven. Welcome to the Daily. Our text today is James 5:4-6. Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you. — James 5:4-6 James boldly calls out the wealthy oppressors who exploit workers to fund their lives of luxury. His language pulls no punches: “crying out,” “kept back,” “fattened,” “condemned,” and “murdered.” The imagery here is vivid. The phrase “crying out” recalls Abel's blood crying from the ground (Genesis 4:10) and the groaning of the Israelites in Egypt (Exodus 2:23). The word “fattened” likens these oppressors to animals unwittingly being prepared for slaughter—judgment is coming. Here's the point: God values justice—especially economic justice. He isn't against wealth itself. Scripture is full of wealthy people—Abraham, Job, David, Solomon—who honored God with their resources. But when wealth is gained at the expense of others, it leads to oppression, and God will hold us accountable. So what does this mean for us? God cares deeply about how we treat others. He cares about how you're compensated at work and how you compensate others if you're in a position of influence. But more than that, this is a call to examine our stewardship. Are you using what God has entrusted to you to bless others, or are you fattening your heart for a day of reckoning? Again, wealth isn't the issue—it's about justice, generosity, and integrity. Let's use our resources to reflect God's character and expand His kingdom. Examine your heart today. Are there cries around you that you've ignored? Are you stewarding well? One day, we'll stand before the Lord of hosts. I want to stand there with clean hands, a pure heart, and a life fully spent for Him. #EconomicJustice, #BiblicalStewardship, #James5Study ASK THIS: How do you ensure your wealth and resources reflect God's character? What does justice in your workplace or home look like? Are there cries of injustice around you that you've ignored? How can you use your resources to expand God's kingdom this week? DO THIS: Examine your finances today—ensure you are stewarding them with justice, generosity, and integrity. PRAY THIS: Lord, search my heart and motives today. Help me to steward what You've entrusted to me with justice, integrity, and generosity. Amen. PLAY THIS: Generous Giver.

Today we examine the 10th plague on Egypt — Death. As God acts decisively to break the chains of brokenness and bondage, the Israelites must take a stand under the blood of the Lamb. But we all have a bit of Egypt in us too, don't we?

September 15, 2024

The plagues on Egypt show God's power, justice and mercy.

The plagues on Egypt show God's power, justice and mercy.