Podcasts about gibeonites

In Episode 586, Fr. Marc Boulos asks what it truly means to welcome someone in Scripture. In Luke's account of the feeding of the five thousand, the answer is far richer than simple hospitality. Examining the Greek verb ἀποδέχομαι (apodechomai) alongside the Hebrew root צ-ר-ר (ṣ-r-r) and the Arabic ص-ر-ر (ṣ-r-r), Fr. Marc demonstrates that biblical welcome is not merely greeting a stranger—it is binding someone into the community of God.Beginning with Luke 9:14–17, he traces the literary and lexical threads that unite the crowd's welcome of Jesus (Luke 8:40) with Jesus' welcome of the crowd (Luke 9:11), culminating in the wilderness banquet. Along the way, he explores Luke's distinctive vocabulary of reclining (κατακλίνω), the companies (κλισίαι) of fifty, Israel's wilderness camp, the Greek symposium, the Gibeonite covenant meal, Abigail's "bundle of the living" (1 Samuel 25:29), Abraham's guests in Sūrat al-Dhāriyāt (Qur'an 51), Noah's self-bound hearers, the manna traditions of Exodus, Psalms, and the Qur'an, and the recurring biblical contrast between those whom God binds to himself and those who bind themselves to the old.Rather than treating Greek, Hebrew, and Arabic as isolated languages, this study follows their shared literary and lexical patterns to illuminate the grammar of the biblical text, revealing how the wilderness table gathers Jew and Greek into one people under one God. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the LORD. And Joshua made peace with them, and made a league with them, to let them live: and the princes of the congregation sware unto them. (Joshua 9:14-15) ~~~~ This sermon was preached at Hope Chapel Redhill. ~~~~ *1/ The covenant of grace illustrated by the Gibeonite covenant. 2/ Asking counsel of the Lord. 3/ Mistakes overruled for good.* **Sermon Summary:** The sermon explores the theological significance of the Gibeonite covenant in Joshua 9 as a vivid illustration of the Covenant of Grace. It contrasts the broken Covenant of Works with the unmerited favour shown to sinners who are beneficiaries rather than meriters of God's promises. The preacher highlights three key lessons: the reality of being under condemnation before receiving grace, the necessity of seeking divine counsel rather than relying on appearances, and how God sovereignly overrules human mistakes for ultimate good. Through historical examples like David and Jonathan, the text emphasizes that salvation is entirely dependent on God's faithful provision and not human effort. The message encourages believers to rest in the security of this everlasting covenant despite their own weaknesses.

Teaching by Josh ClarkWeek 4: The Lord Fights for His People (Ch 9-12)1. Gibeonite Deception (Ch 9)- V 1 "Heard of this" - indicator of new military campaign beginning- Observations of the Gibeonites interaction  - Gibeonites know the Israelites are commanded not to make covenants with the people in the promised land because they will teach them their wicked practices, thereby, leading them into idolatry (Deut 7:1-2; 20:10-18)  - They claim the reason they came to Joshua and the Israelites is because they heard what God had done in Egypt and to the two kings beyond the Jordan.  - The Gibeonites are spared because of the consistency of the people's word. The Gibeonites are treated like a people who the Israelites are permitted to make a treaty with (Deut 20:10-11)- Lesson from the Gibeonites  - Fear of consequences tempts us to hide, manipulate, or control the outcome. Faith responds with trust in the character of God.- Lesson from the Israelites  - Goodness and life are found in seeking the Lord's counsel.2. Southern Campaign (Ch 10)- V 1 "Adoni-zedek, king of Jerusalem" - My Lord is righteousness  - "Melchizedek, king of Salem" (Gen 14:18-20) - King of Righteousness- V 6 Gibeonites request to Joshua is the same as Adoni-Zedek: "come up to me/us" and "help me"  - The one key difference is Gibeon asks for rescue while Adoni-zedek asks for aid in destroying Gibeon.- V 24 Joshua summons the chiefs and tells them to "put their feet on the necks of these kings".  - Gen 3:15- V 42 "And Joshua captured all these kings and their land at one time, because the Lord God of Israel fought for Israel."3. Christ Connection- Dawn - a time where God exposes and judges evil symbolizing His victory over darkness.  - Ex 14:24; 1 Sam 11:9; Isa 37:36; Ps 46:5  - Matt 28:1; Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1; John 20:14. Northern Campaign (Ch 11)- V 4 "like the sand that is on the seashore"- V 6 Comparison of Joshua 8 (Ai) and Joshua 11 (Northern Campaign):  Joshua 8 (Ai):  - "Do not fear" (8:1a)  - Reason: "For I have given into your hand the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land." (8:1b)  - God announces victory before the battle begins. (8:1)  - Specific military instructions: "You shall do to Ai and its king as you did to Jericho... except its spoil and livestock you shall take... Set an ambush..." (8:2)  - Joshua obeys immediately. "So Joshua arose..." (8:3)  - The LORD gives Israel victory. (8:18-29)  Joshua 11 (Northern Campaign):  - "Do not be afraid" (11:6a)  - Reason: "Tomorrow at this time I will give over all of them, slain, to Israel." (11:6b)  - God announces victory before the battle begins. (11:6)  - Specific military instructions: "You shall hamstring their horses and burn their chariots with fire." (11:6c)  - Joshua obeys immediately. "So Joshua and all his warriors came suddenly..." (11:7)  - The LORD gives Israel victory. (11:8-15)- V 18 "Joshua made war for a long time" fulfills Ex 23:29-30- V 20 "For it was the Lord's doing to harden their hearts" - Like Pharaoh, God handed the kings and the people over to their desires and hardened their hearts.- V 21-22 Joshua conquers the Giants that caused the wilderness generation to rebel (Num 13:22, 33)5. God's Great Victories (Ch 12)- V 1-6 Kings defeated to the East of the Jordan River- V 7-24 Kings defeated to the West of the Jordan River

We delve into the story of deception involving the Gibeonites. As Israel continues its conquest of Canaan, they encounter the Gibeonites, who, fearing for their lives, deceive Joshua and the leaders into making a peace treaty. This agreement violated God's command not to make covenants with the inhabitants of Canaan. Despite realizing the deception, Joshua honors the treaty due to their oath to Yahweh, making the Gibeonites perpetual laborers for Israel. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

Group Guide Use this guide to help your group discussion as you meet this week. 2 Samuel 21 Chet Phillips Download TranscriptGood morning. My name is Chet. I'm one of the pastors here. If you will grab a Bible and go to 2 Samuel, chapter 21. We've been working our way through 1 and 2 Samuel and we have reached what commentators call the epilogue of 2 Samuel that the main story has ended.And in the final four chapters, we're going to be in chapter 21. In the final four chapters, we're going to have six pictures that are kind of closing pictures on the kingship of David. And they are not in chronological order. They are in a thematic order. And they're meant to kind of sum up the picture of David for us.The actual story of David's death and Solomon becoming king, that doesn't happen until 1 Kings. You got to work all the way through into 1 Kings for that to kind of to pick up there. So, what this is is almost like the movie's ended, the end credits are rolling, and then it's cutting to different scenes or showing you different pictures of things to try to kind of give you the last picture that it wants you to have of King David. And so, we're going to see two of those pictures today. Now, I heard one pastor put it this way in regards to this text.It's not difficult to understand, but there are aspects of it that are difficult to accept. And so, we're going to go through this text that has some difficulties in it for us. Our hope is to understand why it's here. What was the author trying to tell the people in the original the original hearers? What how would they have understood this?What are we trying to see about David? And then as from our standpoint, what should we do with a text like this? And how do we understand this kind of text? And so hopefully we'll be edified by it, pointed towards Jesus in it. But let's pray and then we'll jump in.Lord, we ask for your mercy. We ask for your grace. and we ask that we would honor you well in the reading and the studying of your word and in submission to it. May your spirit be at work and help us to love Jesus more in Jesus name. Amen.Chapter 21 verse one. Now there was a famine in the days of David for three years year after year and David sought the face of the Lord. Okay, so famine in this region is not uncommon, but three years of it is is getting bad. And we're told that David starts asking the Lord. We don't know exactly when he began, but he's seeking the Lord to understand what's going on here. it's starting to seem like one of the covenantal curses, which is in the in Deuteronomy and Leviticus, if they don't follow the law, it says that your your crops won't yield their fruit.You you will find that your trees don't produce. And so he's starting to go and ask the Lord, is something going on? What's happening here? And this is what happened. Says David sought the face of the Lord.And the Lord said, there is blood guilt on Saul and on his house because he put the Gibeonites to death. So the king called the Gibeonites and spoke to them. Now the Gibeonites were not of the people of Israel, but of the remnant of the Amorites. Although the people of Israel had sworn to spare them, Saul sought to strike them down in his zeal for the people of Israel and Judah. Now, there are several things we need to consider that are going on right here in this text.One is Saul was the original king. Saul is not king anymore. Saul is dead. But there is guilt on Saul, on Saul's house. This blood guilt on Saul. in Saul's house for something that Saul did and the entire nation is paying for it.There's a famine in the land because of blood guilt. Now, blood guilt is a specific thing in the law that is the shedding of innocent blood. And so, there's blood guilt because Saul led the people to attack the Gibeonites. And it says they weren't the Gibeonites aren't the people of Israel, but the people of Israel had promised to protect them. Now, that going to take a little history lesson.That happens in Joshua chapter 9. So, Joshua is sent in with the people of Israel to take over the land. They're they're marching through. They're supposed to get rid of all the Amorites. Well, the Amorites who live in Gibby find out that they're coming and they think this isn't going to go well.So, they come up with a trick to make it seem like they're from another place. They show up. They meet with the people of Israel and they make a covenant with them. People of Israel shouldn't have made this covenant. They should have consulted the Lord, but they make it.When they find out they've been tricked and that the Gibeonites aren't from a far land, but they're from right here and they're a part of the people group they're supposed to get rid of, the people of Israel are like,"Let's kill them."And Joshua and the elders say,"We can't. We promised that we wouldn't. We co we signed the Lord up in covenant with them that we would not kill them."So we we can't. Then we would make it seem like God is a liar and he is not. And so we have to keep this promise.Well, Saul in his zeal not for the Lord, but for the people of Israel and Judah. So, he's running around going,"Israel, Israel, Judah, Judah, Judah, oi, oi, oi."Stuff like that. He's super zealous for his people. He decides the Gibeonites, who've been here forever, who are a subjugated people, we're just going to kill all of them. And so, this would have been a massacre.These people would not have been, they were surrounded by the people of Israel. They were servants to the people of Israel. they would not have been in a position to defend themselves. And he just starts killing them. That story, this is all we get of that story. There's no place that tells us that anywhere else in the text.And so David says,"Why is there a famine?"And God says,"Saul broke a 400year-old covenant that he was supposed to keep."So there's a couple of things. One is God expects you to keep your promises. We ought to be people who keep our promises. Now, if you want to not make a lot of promises, that's fine. Like, if if today you came over to me and said,"Why haven't you given me $5?You've sinned against me."I might would argue,"No, I haven't. That's not like a thing I have to do. I have not sinned against you."But if I had promised to give you $5 and then didn't give it to you, have I sinned against you? Yes. And have I sinned against the Lord?Yes. So somehow in our agreement, the Lord gets involved. He binds covenants together. Now they specifically had done it in the name of the Lord. But even as we make agreements with one another, we can still sin against God by being the type of people who don't keep up with our end of the agreement.And we'll say things like,"Yeah, but we made that deal like 10 years ago."This was 400 years old, and Saul was meant to keep it.Here's the other thing that's happening in this text. Saul was the representative head for the people of Israel. So as king, he can sin on their behalf and lead them all into sin. He's the representative head of the people of Israel of his family. And so he sins and it spreads.The consequences spread. And David as the representative head of the people of Israel now is going to have to figure it out. That's why it says he calls the Gibeonites. When he finds this out, he's got to fix the problem. Now, we don't think about headship that often, but one of the New Testament pictures we're given, it's Old and New Testament, is that husbands are the head of their family.They're head of their wife. They're the head of the household. So, I want to say to husbands in the room, every problem in your house is your problem. You don't get to say,"Well, that's her thing. Well, she's the one who deals with the kids.Well, she told me she didn't want me to be involved in that, so we'll just see how it goes."That's not how it works. David doesn't get to go,"Well, that was Saul's fault. take it up with Saul. Oh, he's dead. Let's move on. David has to try to figure out this problem because he's the representative head for the people of Israel.So, that's where we are. That's what's happening at this moment in the text. Okay.So, he's called the Gibeonites.Verse three. And David said to the Gibeonites,"What shall I do for you? And how shall I make atonement that you may bless the heritage of the Lord?"There's blood, guilt, there's sin. There needs to be atonement. How can we atone for this sin?That's what he's asking. The Gibeonites said to him,"It is not a matter of silver or gold between us and Saul or his house. Neither is it for us to put any man to death in Israel."And he said,"What do you say that I shall do for you?"So he calls them together and says,"How do we make this right? How do we atone for this?"And they say,"Is it sitting the sort of thing that we can settle out of court? It's not the sort of thing that's not a matter of silver and gold.You can't just pay off this debt with money. And then they say,"And we're not allowed to put people to death. That's not the position that we're in."And then they stop talking. Because what they're saying to him is,"But you can put people to death."So he says,"What do you want me to do for you?"Because there's a blood debt.Verse 5. They said to the king,"The man who consumed us and planned to destroy us so that we should have no place in all the territory of Israel, let seven of his sons be given to us, so that we may hang them before the Lord at Gibeah of Saul, the chosen of the Lord."And the king said,"I will give them."So they said,"We want seven of his sons. He killed us in our place. We want to kill them in his place. in his location. We want to hang them before the Lord as a representative sacrifice.That's what they're going to propose. David says,"We can do that."So, they're going to take these seven sons, seven relatives of Saul because Saul is dead, and they're going to make them pay this blood debt. Now, it's not equal because for Saul to try to eradicate them is basically what they're saying. He tried to wipe us out of here. I seriously doubt he'd only killed seven men.So what they request is representative atonement. And even if it's horrific and gruesome, this idea of rounding these guys up, going to their home, knocking on the door, and saying,"Hey, you're related to Saul. You've got to come. You're going to pay this debt."And having to go kill them publicly, have a public execution. At least the impulse should make some sense to us.If you found out that in North Korea they had overthrown the rule of the Kims and that they had gone into the royal palaces and they had killed every Kim they could find, we go,"Well, that I mean I understand it. I understand that they don't want that household, that family rising up again. I understand that they're trying to make them pay for all that they've done in their um ruling over them and their hardship."It's like we can understand the impulse even if there's parts of it that are revuls repulsive to us. But they asked for seven and David says yes. And then it says this verse 7.But the king spared Mephibosheth the son of Saul's son Jonathan because of the oath of the Lord that was between them between David and Jonathan the son of Saul. Now we don't exactly know when this took place but we know it does seem like it's after Mephibosheth has been found and is apart. Then it says,"The king took the two sons of Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah, whom she bore to Saul, Armoni and Mephibosheth."That's a different Mephibosheth. That's uncle Mephibosheth. And the five sons of Merab, the daughter of Saul, whom she bore to Adriel, the son of Barzillai, the Meholathite.If you remember Barzillai from a couple days ago, the 80-year-old man, that's not him. It's a different Barzillai. So, we got two Mephibosheth, two Barzillai. and he gave them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them on the mountain before the Lord, and the seven of them perished together. They were put to death in the first days of the harvest at the beginning of the barley harvest. Now, this would have been a scant barley harvest or a non-existent barley harvest, but right at the beginning of the barley harvest, in the middle of this famine, which the Gibeonites are also having to deal with the famine, they hang them and put them to death.This next part is very sad. Then Rispa, the daughter of Aiiah, took sackcloth and spread it for herself on the rock from the beginning of the harvest until rain fell upon them from the heavens. Now, the beginning of the harvest is in April. Guaranteed normal rainy season. That's the starting of the dry season.Normal raining season doesn't start till September, October. Rain is almost non-existent during that middle period. It is possible there was some rain that came sooner, but it's also possible she was doing this for months. She did this until rain fell from the heavens and she did not allow the birds of the air to come upon them by day or the beasts of the field by night. So she sets up a vigil.She was not able to save her sons and her nephews from death, but she goes and camps out in front of them. She's not going to let birds pick their eyes out. And she's not going to let beasts come by and eat them. And she sits in front of them while they bake in the sun, while they rot, while they decompose. And she gives them as much honor as she can possibly give them, which is the only thing she knows how to do.It's horrific. But she has two sons and she's not going to let them be dishonored any further than they have to be.Verse 11. When David was told what Rispa, the daughter of Aiah, the concubine of Saul, had done, David went and took the bones of Saul and the bones of his son Jonathan from the men of Jabeshgilead, who had stolen them from the public square of Bethshan when the Philistines had hanged them on the day the Philistines killed Saul on Gilboa. Those are all events that have been we've gone through previously in 1 and 2 Samuel. And he brought up from there the bones of Saul and the bones of his son Jonathan. And they gathered the bones of those who were hanged.And they buried the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan in the land of Benjamin and Za in the tomb of Kish his father. And they did all that the king commanded. And after that God responded to the plea for the land. David finds out what she's doing and he goes,"Okay, they're still hanging there."He's going to finish putting into this. He goes and gets the bones of Saul and Jonathan, the bones of the men who've been hanged, and he buries them.And after that, God responds to the police. So this agreement made between David and the Gibeonites, God honors the payment, accepts the atonement of blood for blood, and responds to the plea. That's the first picture that we're given that it's about to immediately swap to another picture. We're going to take a moment when we get done with both of them to try to understand what is it saying to them. How would they have understood this?And then how do we understand it? So second picture, that's first picture.Second picture, there was war again. And this is again not in chronological order. There's no really these are just kind of floating out there. There was war again between the Philistines and Israel. And David went down together with his servants, and they fought against the Philistines.And David grew weary. And Ishbi Benob, one of the descendants of the giants, whose spear weighed 300 shekels of bronze, and who was armed with a new sword, thought to kill David. But Abashai, the son of Zerui, came to his aid, and attacked the Philistine, and killed him. Then David's men swore to him,"You shall no longer go out with us to battle, lest you quench the lamp of Israel."There's several things that are going to happen in this section. First, we see that David at some point was getting older, was getting tired.They said,"Look, you can't go out with us."So, they're giving some explanation to why David quit going out with the army the way that he used to. We see Abashai, the son of Zerui, who's shown up consistently throughout this, showing up and saving David's life. We also see a giant and there's going to be several giants in this text. And so I have a couple of things to say when it comes to the idea of giants. One, this does not have to be the most fantastic thing in your mind.The idea that there are giants. There are giants in the Bible. We're going to talk a little bit about the fantastic side of that in a second. But it doesn't have to be the most fantastic side of things. I want to show y'all a picture.This is a picture. I had AI put two pictures together, but the guy in the middle is 5 foot seven, 5 foot eight. He would walk amongst us and not really stand out. You wouldn't be like,"Wow, what an average fellow."That's always you just be here fine. To his left is a tribe of pygmies.This was taken recently. They exist in Africa in the jungles. The average height of the pygmy tribes is about 5t tall for males. So they're about 5t tall. To his right in South Sudan, there are the Dinka people who have whole families at the average height is 6'5.If the Pygmies had to go fight the Dinka, they might be like,"Oh my goodness, those guys are huge."They may say,"We spied them out and they look like they made us feel like grasshoppers."So all I'm saying, the whole point of showing you this, other than I think the picture is neat looking, is that that's just normal genetics at play right now. These families of giants were just families that had genetics that we're playing into they're really big. And in a world where the biggest baddest guy kills people and gets all the women, he can have a whole lot of children. And so what we have is several families, sons of Anoch, sons of Rafa, that just were really big. And there's several giants.It doesn't have to be this big fantastic thing. You can pull that picture down. The other thing is, just side note, there are some things in the Bible that we don't have all the answers to. How exactly does this work? How many were there?What did they look like? Why does this one guy we're about to read about have six fingers and six toes? I don't know. But if you get on the internet, you can get sucked into a black hole of weird stuff that is unhelpful. And there are people who some are I would say lack wisdom or misguided and I would say some who are evil and demonically led who are trying to pull people into the oddest corners of the Bible.And they want to tell you that well you really got to find out. We we've got to we got to get behind this thing. We got to figure it out. We got to get underneath it. There's something really going on.There's a secret in the Bible and you got to hold it like this and squint with your left eye. It's like what are you talking about? That that's not how it works. So whenever there's like this mystery, this hidden thing, this secret thing, only we know about it. We figured out where the lost 12 tribes went.All this mess, the Bible is extremely clear. There was a mystery. It's been revealed in Christ. All the wisdom and knowledge is found in Christ. He's the revealing of God's promises.The book of Revelation, which is going to reveal, pull back the curtain and show you, it's the revelation of Jesus Christ. It is not unclear. So, if somebody's pulling you into some weird niche thing and they're like,"You have to know this."If I did, can I tell you, it would be in here very clearly. Do you know how many times Paul repeats himself? If I had to know it, he'd have written it in like four of his letters.If it was the most important thing, like it would be showing up and stuff. Now, there are times where we're basing some information off of one piece of little thing we have, but the non-essential pieces of the faith is clear. The revelation of Christ is clear. So, I would suggest you do what David does, what his mighty men do here, which is put the giants to death and then live your life free of them. So, if there's weird little things you like to get into, get done with that and live your life in the joy and the freedom and the hope of the gospel and the clarity of the scriptures.That's all I'm going to yell at you about that at this moment.Verse 18. After this, there was again war with the Philistines at Gob or Gob. Then Cib Cibekiah the Hushathite struck down Saf who was one of the descendants of the giants. And there was again war with the Philistines at Gob. And Elhan the son of Jaier Orahim the Bethlehemite struck down Goliath the Gitite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver's beam.Okay, Goliath the Gitite is just another way of saying Goliath of Gath, which means a whole lot of ink has been spilled over this one verse where people are talking about what does this mean? And there's all kinds of weird theories like Elhanan must have been David's nickname. I don't think so. Couple of options for who this Goliath of Gath is. One, there were two guys named Goliath.That's possible. We already ran into two Mephibosheths and two Barzillais. Two, Goliath is a title, not a name. Three, there is a textual issue here and it's supposed to say brother of Goliath of Gath, which is what sec first Chronicles, I have it written down, 1st Chronicles 20:5 says that Elhanan killed his brother. And there are only a few places in the Old Testament we have very trustw trustworthy manuscripts, but it's possible that we're just missing a word here.Anyway, we're not going to spend any more time on that. But he kills a giant.Verse 20. And there was again war at Gath. It's verse 20. And there was a man of great stature who had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot, 24 in number. He also was descended from the giants.So there's some genetic anomalies going on here. Also, whenever they start telling you how much their clothes weighed or how many fingers they had or whatever, usually those people are going to die. And I think they just count that out and weigh it later. I don't know if he was swinging his spear and they were like ducking and being like,"Does his hand look weird?"I think maybe they figured it out later. I high-fived him.It felt like a lot. All right, verse 21. And when he taunted Israel, Jonathan, the son of Shimi, David's brother, struck him down. These four were descended from the giants in Gath, and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants. And those are the two pictures we're going to look at today.Now, the first thing I want to ask quickly is why? What is this serving? In the epilogue of David, what point is this making? I think the first story is reminding us, putting in our head that David is sorting out the leftover problems from Saul. That some of the problems that happened during David's reign weren't even David's fault.He He's coming in and fixing problems caused by Saul. I also think it's showing that even when David had negative things happen in his reign between his house and Saul's house, it wasn't David just seeking to get revenge on Saul. That David was trying to navigate difficult situations. And at the end of this, he even tries to show as much honor as he can to them by burying them even though the Gibeonites hadn't treated him that well. I think that's the first story.David as representative head is fixing problems on behalf of the nation, fixing problems left by Saul and not trying to have a ton of hostility between his house and Saul's house. I think the second picture is, hey, you remember how there used to be giants? You know how there aren't anymore? Y'all should be thankful to David. That's the second picture is just the Philistines used to be a big problem after David.They're not a big problem. Giants used to be a big problem after David and his mighty men. They're not a big problem. like it's just a picture of remember that David went to war for us. Remember that David cleared out problems. Remember that David defended us.I think that's basically what that second picture is doing. Now for us as we read this story and we try to understand how should we think about things like this.The first thing that I would recommend to us is that there's something going on with the idea of blood guilt. This idea of collective guilt, this idea of headship, representative headship that has guilt on us that we ought to consider. And I specifically had this in mind as we're going into Fourth of July and celebrating this this, you know, America 250. You I'm glad America's been here for 250 years. And if the Lord delays his return, I hope America hits another 250.I hope there's an America 500 and that all the states in the union allow fireworks and it's a blessed occasion. But I hope that the next 250 years are years of peace, justice, righteousness, goodness. I hope they're years of obedience. I hope they're years of worship. I hope that this isn't just a a pagan nation that exists for a long time, a powerful nation that exists for a long time.I hope it's a faithful nation. And we ought to consider if there is shared guilt and blood guilt that can spread to peoples and to a nation and that can pollute the land. The Lord even talks about when sexual sin in Leviticus, he says that the land will vomit you out because they've piled up this sin. Then we ought to be people who pray for our nation, for our leaders, who repent for our nation, for our leaders. I came across this quote as I was studying this this week, and I want to share it with you. says,"We think of the unknown slaves who died in despair on southern plantations, the unknown immigrants who died in squalor outside northern factories, and the unknown faces of infant children today who will never see the light of day because of the sins of their mothers and the conspiracy of a wicked society."None of these names are unknown to God.None of the crimes forgotten in the annals of his perfect justice. How great is the blood guilt on this land as with the land of so many other nations that have already fallen under the sword of God's providential justice. So may the Lord bless us, but may he be merciful on us. And may we be people who pray for the grace and the mercy of the Lord and for things to change and for things to be good and for there to be righteousness here. And the idea that everything the US does is excellent because the US did it.Let us not be fooled into believing that. But let us be people who long for another kingdom where certain things never take place. I think that's one of the things that we should see in this text as we consider the idea of blood guilt and shared guilt and representative headship. May we be repentant and prayerful and hopeful in the light of God's goodness to move forward well. But I think there's a problem in the middle of that that we have to reckon with.When we read this story, we we see that there's shared guilt, which is foreign to us. Feels wrong. That Saul could commit a sin and that it would be on his family and that it would the whole nation would have to pay for it and then Saul's children would have to pay for it feels wrong. And that God would accept the sacrifice at the end feels wrong. You almost want God to show up at the end and go that y'all did this wrong.Why are you rounding up people and killing them for something Saul did? But he doesn't. He says he accepts. He accepts the plea for the land. And so there's part of us that is like,"This doesn't feel fair.This feels off."We want to look at this text and go,"This text, this is unfair. That idea is unfair. And therefore, it's unjust and therefore wrong. And maybe God's evil."That's kind of the track we follow. So I want to share a story with you, and I'm kind of coming at this from the side to try to help us wrap our head around something.So we're going to change subjects for just a second. I want to read a story. This was recently posted online by Nouaga, if I'm pronouncing that correctly. He's Japanese. He wrote this story, posted it online.Some of you may have seen it, maybe you haven't. I want to read it to you. He says,"USA, a Mexican restaurant. We had not yet ordered anything and the food was already arriving. Chips, salsa, unrequested, free.I stopped the waiter. We have not earned these. They just come with the table, man. Okay.Now, he didn't say,"We've not ordered these."He's Japanese. He said,"We have not earned these."There's something going on here for him. Let's see what happens. They come with the table. In my land, hospitality is a debt.Every gift creates an obligation weighed carefully, returned in the proper season with interest of feeling. Here, the gift arrives before you have even proven you can pay for dinner. This is not an appetizer. This is a declaration. We trust you.Eat. chips hit the table and he starts having psychological problems. He is working his best to process what on earth is happening. And it is culturally cross so many lines for him that they've made a declaration of trust. Now, do you feel well trusted when chips hit the table? I don't think you've ever thought about it.I ate with the gravity the moment deserved. People are snacking, eating chips. He's eating with gravity over here. And then I must report this calmly. The basket emptied and a new one appeared.Did we? Like he's trying to What is happening? Refill. The waiter said it's bottomless. Bottomless.They have wells of salsa. The supply lines of this nation are beyond anything my ancestors imagined. My friend warned me,"Don't fill up on chips, dude. Too late."I had accepted three baskets. Honor demanded each one be finished.An unfinished gift is an insult. By the time my actual food arrived, I was a ruined man. This is a trap for a Japanese person because if you finish the chips, they're going to give you more. But he has to finish the chips or he's dishonoring the whole group of people that have brought him here. He's dishonoring those who have handed to him.He's got to honor the gift. He's got to finish the chips. And when he does it, another basket arrives. He says,"Thank you."And goes back to eating with the gravity the moment demands. It says this,"I was not hungry.I was not comfortable. I had been defeated by a courtesy."Generosity that arrives before the request cannot be repaid. It can only be survived. I know the rule. I have made my peace with the basket.One basket. Two at the most. Who am I deceiving? There is no number of baskets I would refuse. The trust of a nation is in that salsa and I intend to honor all of it.Now, have you ever been in a Mexican restaurant and thought,"The trust of the nation is in this salsa. I must honor their trust."Not once, not ever. And as he describes this to you, it's like,"What are you even talking about? How is this an honor shame situation? This is we're at a restaurant.How are you having to honor their gift? They're just giving you chips. Like the it doesn't compute for us. And what happens when we interact with someone who has a completely different culture because you've just been trained in a culture. You've just been equipped in one.And there are things that are ingrained in you. If I'm somewhere and there are no seats and there's a lady, I have to get up. And I'll say,"Here, you have the seat."And if they say,"No, you sit."Then we both just stand because I can't sit back down because I'll die inside and think about it later. I'll ride in my truck later and be like,"I was sitting. They were standing.What have I not?"Like it messes with me because it's been it's built into me. We We all have these things. He has that. So he's overthinking chips where we're all free and we can explain it to him, but he can't not feel it. He can't not feel the chips sitting in the basket.I'm sure there was a moment when he was thinking,"Don't eat But he's like,"I have to or I'm bringing shame and not handling this well and I've got to be thankful and the trust of the nation is in this salsa, whatever that means."Now, what happens when we interact with people of other cultures like that is that we'll often look at them and go,"Huh, that's how y'all think about that? That's interesting. That's not how we think about it, but that's interesting. It's it's weird. You might ask more questions, but there's this level of humility.We'll read things in the biblical text where we're bringing our same American, Western sensibilities. We'll run into something that we don't understand and we'll go,"Well, that's wrong. Feels unfair to me. Unfair means unjust. Unjust means wrong.Wrong means evil. If God's like this, then he's unfair. Unjust, wrong, evil. I don't have to follow him. I don't have to believe him."and we will come with the most insane level of blind confidence that if it goes against my sensibilities, I'm right, it's wrong, and God can be dismissed.Now, in this situation, if we're going to have a handful of humility and a handful of blind confidence, and we have to choose who we're going to interact with, God or noaga, who gets humility and who gets confidence? I'd say let's hit Nounaga with blind confidence and let's walk towards God with some humility. But we so often just go, it feels sideways to me, so it must be wrong. And if I feel it, then it's wrong and so this can't be good and therefore I can get rid of it. What ought to happen when we hit a text and we go,"Wait a second.Headship guilt. Wait a second. Blood sacrifice from family members to pay this back. There's blood guilt. I don't understand that.What we ought to realize is there's something wrong in my understanding. I'm missing a piece and I've got to submit to this because God has authority over me and he's right. I'm not wrong. If God is real and we believe that he's real and that he's over all things, then we should expect to find things in the Bible that confront us and that correct us. If every time you run into one of those, God has to conform to you, well then you're God and you're in charge.So, we should expect there's going to be moments like this. And y'all, you you can come to the scriptures and go, I don't understand that, but I'll submit to it. I don't understand exactly how that works, but I'll I'll believe it. And that exact same framework I just gave you, you use all the time. You use it, you've used it with your parents, you've used it with a mechanic, you use it with an accountant, you've used it with a doctor.They explain something to you and you don't go,"In order for me to take this medicine, I'm I too must become a doctor. You just go,"I don't understand. I don't understand half the words you just said, but I trust you. And we come to the scriptures and we'll read something we don't understand and go, I guess it must be wrong. I guess I can dismiss God.And that is the most arrogant, prideful, nonsensical position to hold. This is hard to understand. It's hard to It's easy to understand. It's hard to accept. It's hard to get our jump past our sensibilities.This idea of guilt that spreads. But what that means is that there's more to sin than you understand. There's more to sin than you realize. If sexual sin can pollute the land, and if blood guilt can pollute the land, and if it can be shared down to families, and if everybody can pay for it, there's more to sin than you understand. It's actually more dangerous than you think it is.It's like if you tell a child to wash their hands and they look at their hands and go,"They're not dirty."It's like,"That's not how it works."Your hands could be coated in diseases. We don't know. Just wash your hands. And knowing you, they probably are. Go wash your hands.Like, that's And we're like, well, that's not how sin works or this sin isn't a big deal or it's just my sin or it's just their sin or it should it's like that's not how it works. And we should look at passages like this and realize there's more to it and it's more dangerous and it's more heinous. And that we should walk with some level of humility. And whether you like it or not, this idea of representative headship and representative atonement, it's the exact situation you find yourself in. We had a representative named Adam who is the representative head over all of humanity.And he rebelled against God. And we've all been born into Adam into sin because of what he did. This is why the Bible will say things like,"In Adam all die."When you were born, before you got a birth certificate, you were theologically, metaphorically handed an undated death certificate. It's a guarantee because we're in Adam and his sin has spread. and it has to be paid for. And if we read something like this and go there's a 23 and me roundup where they went and got these guys to have their blood pay for this debt and we we repulsed by it.But there's a reality of Jesus showed up to pay a blood debt so that there might be forgiveness. That's what Hebrews 9:22 says. Indeed, under the law, almost everything is purified with blood and without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins. So that Jesus has to come pay a debt. So that in this story, it's as if David were to respond and say,"Well, Saul sinned on behalf of the people.He was the king. I'll pay the debt on behalf of the people. I'm the king. I'll be their new representative. Hang me up."the gruesome picture of a son being stripped and impaled before his mother to be laid out in the sun to die on behalf of others for sin he didn't commit is the exact picture of the cross and the exact hope that we have that there was a representative head who did not sin on beha our behalf but saves on our behalf who paves on our behalf This is what 1 Corinthians 15:21-22 says.For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. I want to read a quote by Charles Simeon in reference to this passage. He was a pastor in England. He says,"The blood of Saul's sons was poured forth as a sacrifice to national justice and as a means of averting the divine displeasure."And it was considered by God as an atonement for the sin which Saul had committed.How much more then will God accept in our behalf the blood of his own son who was sent into the world for the express purpose that he might expedate our guilt and procure for us reconciliation with our offended God. You are either in Adam alone or you're in Christ. We're all in Adam and you can stand in Adam and be under guilt or you can have Christ be your representative head to pay the guilt for you. And you don't have to understand how that works. You just need to understand that it works.That you can humbly walk to the Lord and say,"I don't exactly know how guilt works. I don't exactly know how sin works this way. I know that I've sinned, but I don't know how it works that I'm under this curse. But I understand that you're willing to accept the sacrifice of Jesus. You're willing to accept his atoning blood.You're willing to let him pay on my behalf. And I want him to pay on my behalf. I want to be saved. I want to be rescued. I want him to be my representative head.And you don't have to understand exactly how that works, but you just need to know that that's how it works. And that we get to have Jesus represent us to the father so that we might be forgiven. And if Jesus represents you to the father, you are forgiven. The atoning sacrifice has been paid. So, may we read texts like this with a level of humility, and may we read texts like this in a way that helps us appreciate the goodness of Christ on our behalf.The band's going to come back up.In a moment, we're going to receive communion, which is where we as Christians take time to remind ourselves of the hope of the gospel. We have communion elements set up in the front here. Here we have them in the back. And in that corner there, if you have a gluten allergy, we have a a gluten-free table. And what we do when we take communion is we remind ourselves that there is blood that has been shed on our behalf, that an atoning sacrifice has been paid, that the debt has been covered, that Jesus Christ really came for the express purpose to bridge and reconcile us back to God.It is something for Christians to partake in where we take the body where Jesus said on the night he was betrayed he took bread and he said this is my body broken for you and he gave it to them and said take this and then he took a cup and he said this is my blood shed for the forgiveness of sins take drink and so we take the bread reminding us of the body of Christ that's broken we take the cup we drink reminding us of the blood that was shed and the new covenant that was made with us and we take it reminding ourselves that the atonement has been made.If you are not a Christian, then do not take communion. But we would invite you to come to know Christ and to ask him to be your representative head to rescue you and to get you out of this problem.Let's pray.Lord, may we approach you with humility. May we honor your sacrifice and your generosity and your grace. And Lord, may we hide behind the representative sacrifice of Christ that pays for sin. Trusting in you and you alone in Jesus name. Amen.When you are ready, take and eat.

wE MP3 July 2026 - 01

David's eventual response to a 3-year national famine was to seek God in prayer. He learned that he must reconcile with the Gibeonites, who Saul wrongly slaughtered. Justice was done by executing 7 of Saul's descendants. God takes covenant promises seriously, holding us to account for our sins. However, we learn that genuine atonement and humble obedience will lead to God's blessing being restored on a nation under judgment.

Friday Bible Study (6/12/26) // Rebuilding the Wall // 3 Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel. 2 And next to him the men of Jericho built. And next to them[a] Zaccur the son of Imri built.3 The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 4 And next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired. And next to them Meshullam the son of Berechiah, son of Meshezabel repaired. And next to them Zadok the son of Baana repaired. 5 And next to them the Tekoites repaired, but their nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord.[b]6 Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah repaired the Gate of Yeshanah.[c] They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 7 And next to them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, the seat of the governor of the province Beyond the River. 8 Next to them Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, goldsmiths, repaired. Next to him Hananiah, one of the perfumers, repaired, and they restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall. 9 Next to them Rephaiah the son of Hur, ruler of half the district of[d] Jerusalem, repaired. 10 Next to them Jedaiah the son of Harumaph repaired opposite his house. And next to him Hattush the son of Hashabneiah repaired. 11 Malchijah the son of Harim and Hasshub the son of Pahath-moab repaired another section and the Tower of the Ovens. 12 Next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters.13 Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars, and repaired a thousand cubits[e] of the wall, as far as the Dung Gate.14 Malchijah the son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-haccherem, repaired the Dung Gate. He rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars.15 And Shallum the son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He rebuilt it and covered it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And he built the wall of the Pool of Shelah of the king's garden, as far as the stairs that go down from the city of David. 16 After him Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, ruler of half the district of Beth-zur, repaired to a point opposite the tombs of David, as far as the artificial pool, and as far as the house of the mighty men. 17 After him the Levites repaired: Rehum the son of Bani. Next to him Hashabiah, ruler of half the district of Keilah, repaired for his district. 18 After him their brothers repaired: Bavvai the son of Henadad, ruler of half the district of Keilah. 19 Next to him Ezer the son of Jeshua, ruler of Mizpah, repaired another section opposite the ascent to the armory at the buttress.[f] 20 After him Baruch the son of Zabbai repaired[g] another section from the buttress to the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest. 21 After him Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz#Nehemiah #BookOfNehemiah #BibleStudy #BibleExplained #Bible #BiblicalStudies #BibleTeacher #WordOfGod #BiblicalLessons #BibleJournal #BibleReading #BibleStudyNotes #biblestudycommunity #ChicagoChurch #BibleVerse

In this episode, we're walking through Joshua 7–9, and honestly, these chapters move through a lot of familiar ground in the life of faith—victory, failure, confusion, and then restoration. Israel comes off the high of Jericho and immediately runs into a hard moment at Ai. Achan's hidden sin brings unexpected defeat, and Joshua is left asking some very real questions about what just happened and why things fell apart so quickly. But the story doesn't stay there. In Joshua 8, God speaks again with those familiar words—"do not be afraid or discouraged"—and brings Israel back into step with Him. What follows is a reset of sorts: obedience, clarity, and a renewed commitment to God's covenant as the people gather between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim to re-center their lives around Him. Then in Joshua 9, the tone shifts again. The Gibeonites show up—not with weapons, but with a story and a plan. They deceive Israel into making a covenant, and suddenly Joshua is dealing with the fallout of a decision made without asking God first. It's messy, complicated, and honestly very human. And through all of it, one theme keeps surfacing: God is still leading. Even when His people stumble, miss things, or get it wrong, He keeps working with them and moving His promises forward. So if you've ever wondered what faith looks like in the middle of failure, confusion, or second chances—this section of Joshua has a lot to say. Oh, my OOBTers, please don't miss this one—I promise you're going to want to hear it! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/joshua-7-9/

How could the Israelites possibly be deceived by the Gibeonites, and what does any of this chapter have to do with my life in Christ? Check out this podcast for that and more as we continue our study of “Christianity in Joshua”!

Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests, and they builded the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even unto the tower of Meah they sanctified it, unto the tower of Hananeel.2 And next unto him builded the men of Jericho. And next to them builded Zaccur the son of Imri.3 But the fish gate did the sons of Hassenaah build, who also laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.4 And next unto them repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah, the son of Koz. And next unto them repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah, the son of Meshezabeel. And next unto them repaired Zadok the son of Baana.5 And next unto them the Tekoites repaired; but their nobles put not their necks to the work of their Lord.6 Moreover the old gate repaired Jehoiada the son of Paseah, and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah; they laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.7 And next unto them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite, and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon, and of Mizpah, unto the throne of the governor on this side the river.8 Next unto him repaired Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, of the goldsmiths. Next unto him also repaired Hananiah the son of one of the apothecaries, and they fortified Jerusalem unto the broad wall.9 And next unto them repaired Rephaiah the son of Hur, the ruler of the half part of Jerusalem.10 And next unto them repaired Jedaiah the son of Harumaph, even over against his house. And next unto him repaired Hattush the son of Hashabniah.11 Malchijah the son of Harim, and Hashub the son of Pahathmoab, repaired the other piece, and the tower of the furnaces.12 And next unto him repaired Shallum the son of Halohesh, the ruler of the half part of Jerusalem, he and his daughters.13 The valley gate repaired Hanun, and the inhabitants of Zanoah; they built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and a thousand cubits on the wall unto the dung gate.14 But the dung gate repaired Malchiah the son of Rechab, the ruler of part of Bethhaccerem; he built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.15 But the gate of the fountain repaired Shallun the son of Colhozeh, the ruler of part of Mizpah; he built it, and covered it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and the wall of the pool of Siloah by the king's garden, and unto the stairs that go down from the city of David.16 After him repaired Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, the ruler of the half part of Bethzur, unto the place over against the sepulchres of David, and to the pool that was made, and unto the house of the mighty.17 After him repaired the Levites, Rehum the son of Bani. Next unto him repaired Hashabiah, the ruler of the half part of Keilah, in his part.18 After him repaired their brethren, Bavai the son of Henadad, the ruler of the half part of Keilah.19 And next to him repaired Ezer the son of Jeshua, the ruler of Mizpah, another piece over against the going up to the armoury at the turning of the wall.20 After him Baruch the son of Zabbai earnestly repaired the other piece, from the turning of the wall unto the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest.21 After him repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah the son of Koz another piece, from the door of the house of Eliashib even to the end of the house of Eliashib.22 And after him repaired the priests, the men of the plain.23 After him repaired Benjamin and Hashub over against their house. After him repaired Azariah the son of Maaseiah the son of Ananiah by his house.24 After him repaired Binnui the son of Henadad another piece, from the house of Azariah unto the turning of the wall, even unto the corner.25 Palal the son of Uzai, over against the turning of the wall, and the tower which lieth out from the king's high house, that was by the court of the prison. After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh.26 Moreover the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel, unto the place over against the water gate toward the east, and the tower that lieth out.27 After them the Tekoites repaired another piece, over against the great tower that lieth out, even unto the wall of Ophel.28 From above the horse gate repaired the priests, every one over against his house.29 After them repaired Zadok the son of Immer over against his house. After him repaired also Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah, the keeper of the east gate.30 After him repaired Hananiah the son of Shelemiah, and Hanun the sixth son of Zalaph, another piece. After him repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah over against his chamber.31 After him repaired Malchiah the goldsmith's son unto the place of the Nethinims, and of the merchants, over against the gate Miphkad, and to the going up of the corner.32 And between the going up of the corner unto the sheep gate repaired the goldsmiths and the merchants.

Friday Bible Study (5/22/26) // Rebuilding the Wall // 3 Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel. 2 And next to him the men of Jericho built. And next to them[a] Zaccur the son of Imri built.3 The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 4 And next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired. And next to them Meshullam the son of Berechiah, son of Meshezabel repaired. And next to them Zadok the son of Baana repaired. 5 And next to them the Tekoites repaired, but their nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord.[b]6 Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah repaired the Gate of Yeshanah.[c] They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 7 And next to them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, the seat of the governor of the province Beyond the River. 8 Next to them Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, goldsmiths, repaired. Next to him Hananiah, one of the perfumers, repaired, and they restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall. 9 Next to them Rephaiah the son of Hur, ruler of half the district of[d] Jerusalem, repaired. 10 Next to them Jedaiah the son of Harumaph repaired opposite his house. And next to him Hattush the son of Hashabneiah repaired. 11 Malchijah the son of Harim and Hasshub the son of Pahath-moab repaired another section and the Tower of the Ovens. 12 Next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters.13 Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars, and repaired a thousand cubits[e] of the wall, as far as the Dung Gate.14 Malchijah the son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-haccherem, repaired the Dung Gate. He rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars.15 And Shallum the son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He rebuilt it and covered it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And he built the wall of the Pool of Shelah of the king's garden, as far as the stairs that go down from the city of David. 16 After him Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, ruler of half the district of Beth-zur, repaired to a point opposite the tombs of David, as far as the artificial pool, and as far as the house of the mighty men. 17 After him the Levites repaired: Rehum the son of Bani. Next to him Hashabiah, ruler of half the district of Keilah, repaired for his district. 18 After him their brothers repaired: Bavvai the son of Henadad, ruler of half the district of Keilah. 19 Next to him Ezer the son of Jeshua, ruler of Mizpah, repaired another section opposite the ascent to the armory at the buttress.[f] 20 After him Baruch the son of Zabbai repaired[g] another section from the buttress to the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest. 21 After him Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz

In this Bible Story, we witness the continued bravery of David even into old age. He continues to wage war against all who would threaten the followers of God. As a result, David becomes weary, but doesn't lose hope in the Lord. This story is inspired by 2 Samuel 21. Go to https://www.BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Samuel 21:3 from the King James Version.Episode 110: Famine was in the land of Israel, and this led to hard times for the people. So David sought the Lord and asked what he should do. God showed him the reason for the famine and commanded him to make peace with the Gibeonites for the sins that Saul had committed against them. David called the Gibeonites to him and gave them their request, the life of Saul's sons. After this, the famine eased and Israel once again flourished. However, this flourishing would draw out more enemies of Israel and more battles, battles that David was too old to fight in.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd Haberkorn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Moses could get Israel to the Promised Land, but he couldn't get them in. To cross the Jordan, Israel needed a new leader with a familiar name: Joshua. Discover why the transition from the Law to Grace is the only way to claim your divine inheritance. Summary: In this episode, we study the Book of Joshua. We move beyond the battles and the trumpets to find the deep spiritual transformation required to stop wandering and start inheriting. Filling the Shoes of a Giant: We analyze the transition from Moses to Joshua—and from Peter to Jesus—exploring how God stays with the successor just as He was with the predecessor. Crossing the Jordan: We look at the "dry ground" miracle at the Jordan River and how the priests had to step into the water before it parted. Strange Strategies: We discuss the "foolish" tactics used at Jericho. Why does God ask us to do small and simple things—like family prayer or scripture study—that seem unrelated to the "walls" we are trying to bring down? The Valley of Achor: We look at the cautionary tale of Achan and how "one man's sin" can affect an entire community, and how God turns our "valleys of trouble" into "doors of hope." Choose You This Day: We conclude with Joshua's final plea at Shechem. We learn that our obedience lasts only as long as our memory, and why we must choose—every single day—whom we will serve. Call-to-Action: Joshua told the people that the stones of the altar had "heard" their promises. What "witnesses" have you set up in your life to remind you of your covenants? Share your thoughts in the comments! To keep your faith "Unshaken" as we enter the era of the Judges, please like, subscribe, and share this video. Chapter Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 5:31 Joshua, filling shoes 16:37 Preparing for the Promised Land 34:05 Rahab in Jericho 53:34 Crossing the Jordan River 1:08:02 Magnifying, Memorializing, and Renewing Covenants 1:30:19 The Battle of Jericho 1:46:45 Achan the Accursed 2:19:53 The Battle of Ai 2:25:42 The Gibeonites' Trick 2:37:11 God Fighting Battles & Lengthening Days 2:53:11 The Conquest Continues & Caleb Stakes a Claim 3:10:28 Inheritances in Israel 3:30:15 Mainstream & Margin, Exceptions & Rules 4:12:59 Conclusion

Ancient Roots of Life Episode 44Join us as we explore ancient history, biblical insights, and mysterious structures, uncovering the hidden stories behind ancient civilizations, biblical events, and the possibility of resets and cycles in history. Discover how these topics interconnect and what they reveal about our past and future. This episode features an in-depth exploration of the Testament of Solomon, demonology, and biblical numerology, revealing hidden connections and prophetic insights. Join us as we analyze ancient texts, biblical stories, and their relevance to faith and history.0:00 – Modern Roots Life Sponsor & Intro1:16 – Weekend schedules, yard work & gumball trees3:47 – Josh talks about clearing 7 acres, gardening & homesteading7:12 – Giant turtle in the creek behind JT's house7:41 – Tuscany meltology & ancient structures discussion10:54 – Drone footage analysis of buried/melted Italian architecture13:28 – Byzantine Empire, altered chronology & timeline compression theories18:08 – Underground tunnels beneath Jerusalem & hiding from the Romans20:21 – Fallout, Silo, Paradise & underground civilization themes22:57 – Tartaria, resets & biblical judgment cycles26:21 – Tower of Babel parallels & humanity rebuilding after resets28:12 – David's census, God's judgment & 2 Samuel 24 discussion34:19 – Jebusites, Jerusalem & the Temple Mount origins39:17 – The Gibeonites covenant & Saul's violation of the oath46:57 – God's judgment, prophecy & covenant accountability47:39 – The curse of Jericho & Hiel rebuilding the city49:39 – Modern Roots Life salt product breakdown51:24 – Testament of Solomon Part 3 begins52:06 – Lion-shaped demon, Emmanuel & the number 64455:03 – Three-headed dragon & prophecy about the crucifixion57:47 – Emmanuel, Greek gematria & the meaning of 64459:59 – Obyzouth, childbirth demon & Raphael's authority1:02:14 – Dragon spirit, hybrid offspring & temple destruction prophecy1:06:26 – Virgin-born king prophecy & demons fearing Messiah1:08:46 – Why books like Enoch and Testament of Solomon were rejected1:10:00 – Aramaic traditions, prophecy & canon discussionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jt-s-mix-tape--6579902/support.Please support our sponsor Modern Roots Life: https://modernrootslife.com/?bg_ref=rVWsBoOfcFPatreon: https://patreon.com/JT_Follows_JC?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLinkJESUS SAID THERE WOULD BE HATERS: https://jtfollowsjc.com/product-category/mens-shirts/JT's Hats: https://jtfollowsjc.com/product-category/hats/Coaching Program: https://www.echoesoftruthnetwork.com/join

In today's readings, Fr. Mike highlights David's humility in two instances: when David asked the Gibeonites how he could repair their relationship after they had been mistreated by Saul, and when David takes a step back from battle. He also explains the role of the gatekeepers as people who would be responsible for guarding the doors to the Temple. The readings are 2 Samuel 21, 1 Chronicles 26, and Psalm 40. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Following Jesus isn't just about surrendering the big moments of life; it's about inviting him into every decision we make. In this week's message from Joshua 9, we see how easy it is to rely on our own judgment, experience, and understanding instead of seeking the Lord's direction. Through Israel's deception by the Gibeonites, we're reminded that spiritual warfare often begins with subtle compromise and self-reliance. But even in failure, God's grace is still at work. Pastor Jon challenges us to trust God with every area of our lives, remember that our past doesn't disqualify us from future purpose, and boldly surrender our decisions to the Lord who leads us faithfully.

Today's Scripture passages are Joshua 8 - 9 | Matthew 17:1-13 | Luke 9:28-36.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPWORD40 for 40% off and free shipping on any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeTo reach the IVP podcast team, please use this form.Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Pastor Alexander shares a Mother’s Day message about an obscure mother named Rizpah. Because King Saul had broken Israels covenant in slaying the Gibeonites, God brought a famine to the land. To break the famine the Gibeonites requested the sons of Saul be hung. When her two sons were slain, Rizpah stood her ground, staying with the bodies of her two sons, keeping the birds and beasts away from devouring their bodies. As a result of her devotion and determination, her sons ultimately received a royal burial and her story is recorded in Scripture as an example of the depth of a mother’s love.

Pastor Alexander shares a Mother’s Day message about an obscure mother named Rizpah. Because King Saul had broken Israels covenant in slaying the Gibeonites, God brought a famine to the land. To break the famine the Gibeonites requested the sons of Saul be hung. When her two sons were slain, Rizpah stood her ground, staying with the bodies of her two sons, keeping the birds and beasts away from devouring their bodies. As a result of her devotion and determination, her sons ultimately received a royal burial and her story is recorded in Scripture as an example of the depth of a mother’s love.

Pastor Alexander shares a Mother’s Day message about an obscure mother named Rizpah. Because King Saul had broken Israels covenant in slaying the Gibeonites, God brought a famine to the land. To break the famine the Gibeonites requested the sons of Saul be hung. When her two sons were slain, Rizpah stood her ground, staying with the bodies of her two sons, keeping the birds and beasts away from devouring their bodies. As a result of her devotion and determination, her sons ultimately received a royal burial and her story is recorded in Scripture as an example of the depth of a mother’s love.

Pastor Alexander shares a Mother’s Day message about an obscure mother named Rizpah. Because King Saul had broken Israels covenant in slaying the Gibeonites, God brought a famine to the land. To break the famine the Gibeonites requested the sons of Saul be hung. When her two sons were slain, Rizpah stood her ground, staying with the bodies of her two sons, keeping the birds and beasts away from devouring their bodies. As a result of her devotion and determination, her sons ultimately received a royal burial and her story is recorded in Scripture as an example of the depth of a mother’s love.

Nehemiah 3:1-32 ESV Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel. And next to him the men of Jericho built. And next to them Zaccur the son of Imri built. The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired. And next to them Meshullam the son of Berechiah, son of Meshezabel repaired. And next to them Zadok the son of Baana repaired. And next to them the Tekoites repaired, but their nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord. Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah repaired the Gate of Yeshanah. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And next to them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, the seat of the governor of the province Beyond the River. Next to them Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, goldsmiths, repaired. Next to him Hananiah, one of the perfumers, repaired, and they restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall. Next to them Rephaiah the son of Hur, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired. Next to them Jedaiah the son of Harumaph repaired opposite his house. And next to him Hattush the son of Hashabneiah repaired. Malchijah the son of Harim and Hasshub the son of Pahath-moab repaired another section and the Tower of the Ovens. Next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters. Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars, and repaired a thousand cubits of the wall, as far as the Dung Gate. Malchijah the son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-haccherem, repaired the Dung Gate. He rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And Shallum the son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He rebuilt it and covered it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And he built the wall of the Pool of Shelah of the king's garden, as far as the stairs that go down from the city of David. After him Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, ruler of half the district of Beth-zur, repaired to a point opposite the tombs of David, as far as the artificial pool, and as far as the house of the mighty men. After him the Levites repaired: Rehum the son of Bani. Next to him Hashabiah, ruler of half the district of Keilah, repaired for his district. After him their brothers repaired: Bavvai the son of Henadad, ruler of half the district of Keilah. Next to him Ezer the son of Jeshua, ruler of Mizpah, repaired another section opposite the ascent to the armory at the buttress. After him Baruch the son of Zabbai repaired another section from the buttress to the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest. After him Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired another section from the door of the house of Eliashib to the end of the house of Eliashib. After him the priests, the men of the surrounding area, repaired. After them Benjamin and Hasshub repaired opposite their house. After them Azariah the son of Maaseiah, son of Ananiah repaired beside his own house. After him Binnui the son of Henadad repaired another section, from the house of Azariah to the buttress and to the corner. Palal the son of Uzai repaired opposite the buttress and the tower projecting from the upper house of the king at the court of the guard. After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh and the temple servants living on Ophel repaired to a point opposite the Water Gate on the east and the projecting tower. After him the Tekoites repaired another section opposite the great projecting tower as far as the wall of Ophel. Above the Horse Gate the priests repaired, each one opposite his own house. After them Zadok the son of Immer repaired opposite his own house. After him Shemaiah the son of Shecaniah, the keeper of the East Gate, repaired. After him Hananiah the son of Shelemiah and Hanun the sixth son of Zalaph repaired another section. After him Meshullam the son of Berechiah repaired opposite his chamber. After him Malchijah, one of the goldsmiths, repaired as far as the house of the temple servants and of the merchants, opposite the Muster Gate, and to the upper chamber of the corner. And between the upper chamber of the corner and the Sheep Gate the goldsmiths and the merchants repaired.

Dean Woodward brings a message from 2 Samuel 21:1-22 as we continue to learn how the life of King David leads us to the life of King Jesus.Thank you for joining us! To learn more, please visit: https://wcchapel.org/fridaymensbreakfast

Join us for another deep-dive into Joshua 9 where we apply the lessons learned in this chapter to our own lives. Where do we need to be careful with friendships? Trush? Alliances in general? How binding are our oaths? #bible #christian #messianic #messianicpodcast #christianpodcast #hope #truth #faith #scripture #torah #wholebible #wholebiblebeliever #christianity

Pastor Shane Kohout preaches Joshua 9 and shows how the story of the Gibeonites exposes the danger of living by sight instead of by faith. This sermon calls us to repentance, deeper trust in God, and confidence in His mercy.

Live by faith and not by sight

In this raw, unscripted episode, Norense unpacks what overwhelm is really trying to do to you — and why the small moments of frustration, the micro-triggers, the "what's the point" feelings are not random. They are targeted. The enemy knows that if he can render you emotionally powerless, your gift never reaches the marketplace.Using the story of Joshua possessing the Promised Land, Norense breaks down the spiritual and practical framework for pushing through — even when you don't feel ready, even when the plan falls apart, and even when the shame of your past is still buried in the ground.In this episode:Why overwhelm is a spiritual strategy against your gift — not just a bad dayThe difference between emotions, feelings, and moods — and how to stop letting external triggers write your storyWhat it means to "possess the land" and why God can promise it but you still have to take itThe Joshua and Gibeonite story — and what happens when you make major decisions without consulting God firstWhy secret sin keeps you from stepping into your authority — and how to come cleanThe danger of living in a Christian bubble instead of being the light you were called to beHow to drop the seed in every marketplace — even when you don't control the soilKey Truth: Before the foundation of the world, the lamb was slain. He already saw your worst day — and He still made a way.MIND BULLY PODCAST:SpotifyApple PodcastsSOCIALS:@kingno_@mindbullypodcast 

JOSHUA 9

Fr. Mike expands on the significance of establishing a covenant relationship, and how the trickery of the Gibeonites can represent the desire to enter into a relationship with God out of fear rather than out of love. Today's readings are Joshua 8-9, and Psalm 126. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Bro. James Jones - A sermon preached Sunday Evening during our Spring Jubilee, on March 22, 2026.

In Joshua 6–9, God gives Israel victory at Jericho, but Achan's disobedience brings trouble until the sin is dealt with. Israel then defeats Ai, renews their covenant with God, and later makes a treaty with the Gibeonites after being deceived.Read the WHOLE Bible with me! Subscribe so you don't miss an episode. If you appreciate what is happening on this channel, please like, comment and most importantly, share this everywhere you can so we can bring as many people as possible with us on this Bible reading journey. GOD IS SO GOOD!Here is a link to all of the worship songs I have finished the Bible readings with. Worship with me!https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLv0l3ExigVUcMr6ja88bC607BoR1EaQuF&si=e1HfJdRXr4LSdU7WHere is the link to read the WHOLE Bible with me on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLv0l3ExigVUdyHEiJ2X2tFvXNINmLMs7O&si=FM_Od_qVefeWU1kYDo you want a Bald Headed Country Boy t-shirt? You can find them on my website with the link below.https://baldheadedcountryboy.com/

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Joshua 9-11; 1 Corinthians 6 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the March 21st, 2026 episode of Daily Radio Bible. In today's journey, Hunter invites us into an honest and transformative exploration of Joshua chapters 9 to 11 and 1 Corinthians 6. Together, we witness the shrewd faith of the Gibeonites, who, like Rahab, chose the path of wisdom rooted in faith rather than power—a theme that resonates with the everyday choices we face in our walk with God. Hunter draws connections between ancient battles and modern spiritual struggles, encouraging us to embrace a "shrewd faith" that relinquishes our insistence on having our own way for the sake of peace and deeper relationships. As always, the episode wraps with meaningful prayers, reflections, and a reminder of God's abiding love. Tune in for spiritual guidance, encouragement, and practical wisdom as you continue your daily walk through scripture. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Shrewd faith that seeks deliverance. The story of the Gibeonites reminds us that sometimes faith can look a whole lot like shrewdness. Much like Rahab, the Gibeonites saw what God was doing among his people. They recognized that the Lord, the God of Israel, was the God of deliverance. They didn't trust in their own power, alliances, or might. Instead, they sought to make peace with God—even using cunning and deception—because they feared him and believed his promises. Their shrewdness, though rooted in deceit, was ultimately an act of faith. It was their confidence in God's purposes that moved them to take action. The Gibeonites understood that deliverance did not come from holding tightly to their own ways or insisting on their own terms, but rather by aligning themselves with what God was doing. Even when their wisdom didn't look entirely "respectable," it led to their rescue and inclusion in the story of God's people. Jesus himself spoke of the value of shrewdness in the parable of the shrewd manager—commending the ability to let go, to give away, to not hold onto our own rights but instead to seek life and deliverance, even in unexpected ways. True faith often requires a willingness to let go and give up what we might otherwise cling to. Paul carries this same theme into his words for the Corinthians: Why not just accept the injustice and let yourself be cheated, rather than insist on your own way? Sometimes, faith means releasing our grip, letting go of our insistence, and making peace—in our relationships with God and with others. This is the way of faith—a faith that is wise, cunning, and obedient. It is a faith that doesn't always fit our expectations, but it always invests itself in relationship—relationship with God, with his people, and with the world. May we learn from the Gibeonites and from the words of Paul a shrewdness that leads us not to destruction, but to grace, deliverance, and life. That is the prayer I have for my own soul. That is the prayer I have for my family—for my wife and my daughters and my son. And that is the prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

After the victories over Jericho and Ai and the reading of the law, Israel is ready to start the next phase of the campaign. However, it starts with a bit of controversy including a covenant that eventually needs to be fulfilled. Fulfilling that covenant is what leads to one of the greatest victories so far in taking the Promised Land.If you are enjoying Bible Backdrop, please leave a 5 star rating and review. If you want to get in touch with the show, the email is given in the episode. Bible Backdrop is available on Apple, Spotify and wherever podcasts are found.

In this Bible Story, Israel battles against five allied armies. God sends hail from the sky and causes the sun to stand still until Israel prevails over their foe. This story is inspired by Joshua 9-10. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Joshua 9:15 from the King James Version.Episode 55: The Gibeonites, a people of the land of Canaan, hear about what God is doing for the people of Israel and fear for their lives. In this fear, they devise a plan to deceive Israel into thinking that they are weary travelers coming from afar, in hopes that Israel might make a treaty with them. This caused five of the tribes in Canaan to gather together as one in an attempt to make war against Israel. But even though their numbers were large, they were no match for the God of Israel. He caused hail to go before them and even allowed the sun to stand still until the armies of the Canaanite kings were thoroughly defeated.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this verse-by-verse Bible teaching from 2 Samuel 21, Sam Vargas looks at a difficult passage during the reign of King David, where a three-year famine leads David to seek the Lord and learn that it is connected to Saul's actions against the Gibeonites. The teaching explores God's faithfulness to His promises, the seriousness of sin and its effects on others, and the importance of humility and dependence on God in prayer. Sam also reflects on passages such as James 1 and Psalm 46, highlighting how God works through trials to grow His people and how He remains a present help in times of trouble.

Week 9 of the All I Do Is Win series, “The Discipline of Discernment,” looks at Book of Joshua 9 and the story of Israel being deceived by the Gibeonites. Pastor Leonard Davis reminds us that the enemy often works through subtle deception rather than obvious attack, and that spiritual discernment—seeking God before we decide—is essential to avoid unnecessary complications in our lives. As you listen, use the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to prayerfully process the message and practice discernment in your own decisions.     Week 9 "All I Do Is Win" Sermon Reflection Guide: "The Discipline of Discernment"

1) Where did idol worship begin?2) What is meant by the use of the name of Rahab in Psalm 87?3) What was Jesus illustrating in Mark 2 when He spoke of a new patch on an old garment or new wine in an old wine skin?4) What is the meaning of the 2300 days mentioned in Daniel 8:14?5) Could it have been God's mercy to spare the Gibeonites that allowed Joshua to be deceived?

Joshua 9 | March 1, 2026 | Pastor Todd SmithPastor Todd explores the critical importance of seeking divine guidance in all decisions, drawing from Joshua chapter 9. He highlights the Israelites' costly mistake when they were deceived by the Gibeonites because they "did not ask counsel from the Lord." This ancient narrative serves as a powerful reminder of how easily we can fall prey to deception when we rely solely on our own understanding.Discover three biblical ways to seek God's counsel: through His Word, His peace, and His people. Learn how to sharpen your discernment and navigate life's crossroads with wisdom and confidence, ensuring your choices align with God's perfect will.Connect with Crossroads Community Church:Website: https://lifeatcrossroads.orgFacebook: https://facebook.com/lifeatcrossroadsGive Online:https://lifeatcrossroads.org/giveonlineLicensing Information:CCLI License #2915685CCS WORSHIPcast License #9466Crossroads Community Church holds a CCS WORSHIPcast License, which grants permission to publicly play, perform, and stream musical compositions controlled by ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC in accordance with CCS License Terms and Conditions.

Joshua 9 | March 1, 2026 | Pastor Todd SmithPastor Todd explores the critical importance of seeking divine guidance in all decisions, drawing from Joshua chapter 9. He highlights the Israelites' costly mistake when they were deceived by the Gibeonites because they "did not ask counsel from the Lord." This ancient narrative serves as a powerful reminder of how easily we can fall prey to deception when we rely solely on our own understanding.Discover three biblical ways to seek God's counsel: through His Word, His peace, and His people. Learn how to sharpen your discernment and navigate life's crossroads with wisdom and confidence, ensuring your choices align with God's perfect will.Connect with Crossroads Community Church:Website: https://lifeatcrossroads.orgFacebook: https://facebook.com/lifeatcrossroadsGive Online:https://lifeatcrossroads.org/giveonlineLicensing Information:CCLI License #2915685CCS WORSHIPcast License #9466Crossroads Community Church holds a CCS WORSHIPcast License, which grants permission to publicly play, perform, and stream musical compositions controlled by ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC in accordance with CCS License Terms and Conditions.

Dig-A-Bit is a weekly mini Bible study with Cindy Colley. It supplements the Digging Deep Bible study for women. For more information about the Digging Deep Bible Study for Women, visit TheColleyHouse.org. SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: Judges 19-21 Exodus 23:20-23 Joshua 9-10 Joshua 18 Judges 20-21 James 1:5 LINKS: PDF Transcript for this Podcast Digging Deep in God’s Word Bible Study for Women Bless Your Heart Blog West Huntsville church of Christ at Providence RESOURCES: The Colley House Music: “Podcast” by JD Sound at audiojungle.net

What can a group of ancient deceivers teach us about salvation? In The Gospel According to the Gibeonites (Joshua 9:22–27), we see a powerful foreshadowing of the gospel: hearing God's warning, fearing judgment, making peace before it's too late, and becoming servants of the King. This message calls us to face the reality of judgment—and rejoice in the greater reality of a Savior who seeks and saves the lost.

After a mountaintop moment of worship and victory, Israel walks straight into deception. In Joshua 9, the Gibeonites trick God's people into making a binding oath—because Israel failed to seek the Lord's direction. The result? A costly reminder that our words matter. This message explores the danger of relying on our own understanding, the seriousness of truth and integrity before God, and why keeping your word reflects the character of the God of truth. From Joshua's mistake to the greater faithfulness of King Jesus, we're reminded: don't speak lightly—do what you say.

Send a textThis week we discuss how Joshua's lack of inquiring of the Lord led Israel into a bad treaty. 

Send a textJoshua 10 reminds us that obedience doesn't end when the agreement is made—it's proven when pressure comes. After Israel's covenant with the Gibeonites in Joshua 9, Joshua is immediately pulled into a fight he didn't initiate but is still responsible to finish.In this episode of The Pursuit of Manliness, we look at what it means for men to follow through when commitment becomes costly. Joshua doesn't hesitate, delay, or look for a way out. He shows up, fights hard, and trusts the Lord to do what only God can do—even to the point of the sun standing still.This chapter challenges us to consider how our present faithfulness prepares us for future battles. Half-hearted obedience, delayed action, or unfinished work doesn't just affect today—it weakens us for what's coming next. God honors men who keep their word, stand firm under pressure, and move forward in confidence that the battle ultimately belongs to Him.Learn more about The Pursuit of Manliness: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/ Subscribe to Recalibrate, the daily podcast from The Pursuit of Manliness: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/recalibrate/id1797551549Join The Herd:  https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/join-the-herd Build your own local Tribe with Tribe Builder: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-builderRegister for our 2026 Fall Men's Retreat: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/2026-mens-retreatSupport the show

Send a textIn Joshua 9, Israel wins battles on the battlefield but stumbles in the conference room. The Gibeonites don't defeat Israel with swords or strength, but with worn clothes, stale bread, and a convincing story. And the most dangerous line in the chapter may be this: “They did not ask counsel from the Lord.”In this episode of The Pursuit of Manliness, we wrestle with why deception so often works on us as men. Why do we trust appearances, rush decisions, and rely on our own judgment—especially after seasons of victory? Joshua 9 exposes how spiritual confidence can quietly turn into self-reliance, and how failing to slow down and seek the Lord can lead to long-term consequences.This episode challenges men to examine where they may be operating on assumption instead of prayer, instinct instead of obedience, and confidence instead of humility. True strength isn't found in quick decisions—it's found in dependence on the Lord who sees what we cannot.Learn more about The Pursuit of Manliness: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/ Subscribe to Recalibrate, the daily podcast from The Pursuit of Manliness: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/recalibrate/id1797551549Join The Herd:  https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/join-the-herd Build your own local Tribe with Tribe Builder: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-builderRegister for our 2026 Fall Men's Retreat: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/2026-mens-retreatSupport the show

In this episode of House of Learning: Understanding the Doctrine of the Temple, Meghan Farner and Cory Jensen explore ancient covenant ceremonies and what covenants truly meant in biblical and Israelite culture — far beyond the modern idea of a simple two-way promise.Using the story of David and Jonathan as a primary archetype, this lesson reveals how ancient covenants involved the merging of identity, shared inheritance, protection, loyalty, sacrifice, and sacred relationship. These covenant patterns illuminate how God relates to humanity and what it means to enter a covenant relationship with Jesus Christ.You'll learn:✨ Why ancient covenants were relational, not contractual ✨ How covenant ceremonies symbolized shared identity, strength, and inheritance ✨ The spiritual meaning of robes, weapons, and sacred exchanges ✨ How covenant blood symbolism points to Christ's atonement ✨ Why God identifies Himself as One who keeps covenant and shows mercy ✨ How covenant blessings extend across generations ✨ What covenant faithfulness, justice, and mercy look like in real lifeThis episode also explores the story of the Gibeonites, the seriousness of covenant obligations, and how God honors covenant relationships even across centuries. Viewers are invited to reconsider temple covenants as sacred relationships of transformation rather than mere ritual compliance. If you've ever wondered what temple covenants truly mean, how God relates to covenant partners, or how ancient practices illuminate modern worship, this lesson provides essential spiritual foundations.

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef examines the story of the Joshua and the Gibeonites as a call to exercise discernment and godly wisdom. If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon You Want Me to Do What?, Part 7: LISTEN NOWNEW FOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNTYou've seen the shift. You've felt the uneasiness. You know something is changing in America—and not for the better. Under the guise of political correctness, a quiet takeover is happening in our nation. In Unholy Alliance, Dr. Michael A. Youssef reveals the coordinated movement behind it all—and how you can stand firm in a time of deception.Unholy Alliance is Dr. Youssef's most urgent book in 50 years. It's time for the Church to find its voice—and rediscover its mission—before it's too late. Pre-order your copy today for your gift of any amount!*Offer valid through April 5, 2026, in US, UK, and Canada. The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.