Podcasts about Gomer

How can you lift your eyes towards God and soften your heart for your neighbor today? Gomer is back and tells his story of surgery and recovery! Continuing through the Parables, Gomer and Dave explore the importance of avoiding gossip, forgiving generously and loving our neighbor. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

In this week's POSC podcast, Pastor Putnam brings a tender but urgent message on a theme woven through all of Scripture: the grace of God—how sweet it is. Drawing from Ephesians 2, Pastor Putnam reminds us that we were dead in our trespasses, unable to save ourselves, yet God—rich in mercy and overflowing with love—made us alive through Christ. Grace isn't God ignoring our sin; it's God overcoming our sin. It's not weakness or permission—it's power. Power to rise. Power to return. Power to become who God already declared we can be. Through the stories of Jonah, Hosea and Gomer, the prodigal son, Peter, and even Noah, Pastor Putnam paints a vivid picture of a God who doesn't give up on His people. A God who chases, restores, and runs toward the broken long before they ever take a step toward Him. A God who meets us in storms, in pigpens, in fish bellies, in our denials, in our wandering—and calls us by name. But this message isn't just about grace given—it's about grace responded to. Grace opens a door, but we must walk through it. Grace creates a space—a space to repent, to forgive, to come home, to obey—but that space won't stay open forever. Just as in the days of Noah, salvation is found in responding while the door is open. If you've ever felt too far gone, too messed up, too inconsistent, too wounded, or too ashamed—this episode is a reminder that you are still within the reach of God's grace. Your failure isn't final. Your story isn't over. And the Father is running toward you. Today is your moment. Step into the space of grace. To hear more about what God is doing in Sheboygan County and beyond, visit us at posc.church!

“The abortion industry and the prochoice movement, so much of it is about destroying beauty.” Dave talks with artist, Caitlin Solan, who's using her creative gifts to champion the pro-life cause. Caitlin shares about her miscarriage ministry and they reflect on the beauty of life, and the tragedy of abortion. Find out more about Cailtin Solan and her ministry: https://beholdyourchild.com/ We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

In this week's message from our Ascent: Walking up the Pilgrims' Pathway series, Pastor Nate takes us deep into the heart of two of the most intimate Songs of Ascent, Psalm 130 and Psalm 131 , to show us how we ascend in our pilgrimage through waiting for God's mercy with quiet trust.Psalm 130 begins “Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord,” painting a picture of the pit of sin—a place of helplessness where no one can save themselves. But there, in the darkness, we find the beauty of God's character: forgiveness, steadfast love (hesed), and plentiful redemption. Through the cross of Christ, these are not abstract ideas, they're living realities. Like Hosea's faithful love for Gomer, God's hesed runs deeper than our failures and stronger than our rebellion.We are called to pray and wait. Waiting isn't passive, it's an act of hope and longing that just as the watchman waits for dawn, the light of God's mercy will rise. We hope on His Word—trusting His promises—and we hope for His Word—expecting His Spirit to speak and lead. Psalm 131 moves from crying out to calming down, from desperation to quiet trust. David models humility before God, resisting Satan's attacks on the heart, eyes, and mind. Instead of arrogance, pride, and restless speculation, he quiets his soul “like a weaned child with its mother.” Pastor Nate contrasts childish faith, which demands and fears, with childlike faith, which rests and trusts.As pilgrims, we can be sure of this: The Lord Himself will redeem us from all our iniquities. So, we keep praying, keep waiting, and keep trusting, until we see His mercy rise like the morning light.

Do you get flustered with personal attacks? Are you looking for ways to defend the faith with truth, love and maybe even humor? Dave talks with Marie Mazzanti, a Catholic mom of 5, about her media presence and mission to evangelize online. She reflects on her relationship with Christ, responding to haters with love and using humor to bring the Gospel to life. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Gomer lives! As does the deep dive into Aristotle's Poetics. This time, it's Beauty and the Beast. Enjoy! Thank you to Saint Kolbe Studios (https://saintkolbestudios.com/) for producing this episode of Catching Foxes!

2 Chronicles 34 tells of Josiah coming to the throne of Judah at the age of 8 years old (BC 641). Verse 2 gives a wonderful testimony to his steadfastness. When he was 16 years old he commences his reforms with the destruction of the idols and the burning of the bones of the false prophets that had been prophesied 300 years earlier to Jeroboam 1, the first king of Israel, once they had split the kingdom at the time of Rehoboam (son of Solomon - see 1 Kings 13verses1-2). Verses 8-21 speak of the discovery, in the temple, of the scroll of Deuteronomy (possibly even the original in Moses own writing). This causes great concern when they read of the curses that would be sent upon them for their disobedience to God's laws. They were also at this time receiving the people's donations, which money was faithfully used in the repairing of the temple. Hilkiah, the high priest, and other officials went to the prophetess Huldah to ask what they could expect from Yahweh as punishment for their sins. Huldah's response was that judgment was coming, but would be postponed from Josiah's times until after his death, because king Josiah had been wholehearted in his worship of God.Hosea 2 tells us that because of the unfaithful behaviour of Gomer (as a type of the nation of Israel) Israel was no longer God's wife and the children would not be His people, nor would they receive mercy. When Gomer's lovers would no longer want to be with her she would seek the LORD her God, who would after disciplining her, receive her again, as God would the nation, whose typical example Gomer would follow. Yahweh in His kindness would allure her back to Himself, and once again woo her. Eventually Gomer would become a faithful wife - as too will Israel - and as a consequence blessings would flow. The land would be sown with the seeds of fruitfulness. Israel would once more receive mercy from the hand of their Maker and Husband. And the nation would become the people of God once more (see Romans 9verses20; 11verses13-16, 25-27). This of course a great parable about Yahweh's loving kindness and His restoration of His people to their LORD in faithfulness and truth in Messiah's kingdom

2 Chronicles 34 tells of Josiah coming to the throne of Judah at the age of 8 years old (BC 641). Verse 2 gives a wonderful testimony to his steadfastness. When he was 16 years old he commences his reforms with the destruction of the idols and the burning of the bones of the false prophets that had been prophesied 300 years earlier to Jeroboam 1, the first king of Israel, once they had split the kingdom at the time of Rehoboam (son of Solomon - see 1 Kings 13verses1-2). Verses 8-21 speak of the discovery, in the temple, of the scroll of Deuteronomy (possibly even the original in Moses own writing). This causes great concern when they read of the curses that would be sent upon them for their disobedience to God's laws.   They were also at this time receiving the people's donations, which money was faithfully used in the repairing of the temple. Hilkiah, the high priest, and other officials went to the prophetess Huldah to ask what they could expect from Yahweh as punishment for their sins. Huldah's response was that judgment was coming, but would be postponed from Josiah's times until after his death, because king Josiah had been wholehearted in his worship of God. Hosea 2 tells us that because of the unfaithful behaviour of Gomer (as a type of the nation of Israel) Israel was no longer God's wife and the children would not be His people, nor would they receive mercy. When Gomer's lovers would no longer want to be with her she would seek the LORD her God, who would after disciplining her, receive her again, as God would the nation, whose typical example Gomer would follow. Yahweh in His kindness would allure her back to Himself, and once again woo her. Eventually Gomer would become a faithful wife - as too will Israel - and as a consequence blessings would flow. The land would be sown with the seeds of fruitfulness. Israel would once more receive mercy from the hand of their Maker and Husband. And the nation would become the people of God once more (see Romans 9verses20; 11verses13-16, 25-27). This of course a great parable about Yahweh's loving kindness and His restoration of His people to their LORD in faithfulness and truth in Messiah's kingdom. Acts 16 speaks of a disciple named Timothy - meaning "of value to God". He was well recommended by the brethren. Timothy's mother, Lois, was a Jewess and a faithful believer. Likewise, Timothy's - grandmother, Eunice, was also faithful - see 2 Timothy 1verses5. As Timothy's father was a Greek Paul thought that it would be best for Timothy to be circumcised before travelling with himself and Silas. They visit the Galatian believers to strengthen their faith. Whilst attempting to preach the gospel in the province of Asia they were prevented from doing so. God had urgent work for the missionaries to do in Macedonia. They were given a vision of a man from Macedonia asking them for help. Many believe that the man in the vision was Doctor Luke, since the pronouns in the chapter change when Luke joined them- see chapter 16verses11. It is also interesting to think that Alexander the Great was a Macedonian who claimed to have a vision of the high priest of Israel and the 24 elders coming to meet him (see Zechariah 9). In Philippi, the capital of Macedonia, there were so few Jews that the city had no synagogue. It was by the riverside that Lydia, a lady from Thyatira, believed and was baptised. Lydia, "whose heart the Lord opened" describes the timeless operation of the spirit of God. It is a lovely description. She was the first convert from that city. Verses 16-24 describe a demented girl, said to be possessed by the python of Delphi, who follows Paul and Silas and claims that they are the servants of the most high God. After the girl was healed her owners, losing their source of income, had Paul and Silas arrested, beaten, placed in most uncomfortable stocks and cast into prison. Paul and Silas sang hymns of praise to the amazement of the prisoners and their jailor. The response of the Almighty was to a produce a strong earthquake that was felt throughout the city. It also released all the chains of the prisoners. The jailor fearing his prisoners had fled was about to take his own life. Paul called upon him to stop. He took Paul and Silas to his home and bathed their wounds (with their stripes he was healed - see Isaiah 53). The jailor and the believing adults of his household were baptised - the ecclesia was growing. In the morning the superstitious magistrates tell Paul and Silas to go. Paul says they have beaten the Apostles who are uncondemned Roman citizens. This made the magistrates even more fearful; but must have provided the ecclesia with a measure of protection. Acts 17 tells of Paul, Silas coming to Thessalonica (Luke seems to have stayed in Philippi for the next 7 years), where the preaching had some measure of success until the jealous Jews stirred up the rabble of the city and attacked the house of Jason where Paul and his companions were lodged. Jason is beaten, but the multitude want Paul's blood. The enraged mob claim that Paul has turned the Roman world upside down with his preaching - and indeed he had done that. After taking money for security Paul and his company are allowed to depart. In verses 10-12 we hear that they next come to Berea where the people of that city are more noble of heart as they daily search the Scriptures to see whether what the Apostles claimed was in fact what the Scriptures taught. But sadly, true to form, the unbelieving Jews from Thessalonica come and bring persecution with them. Paul is hurried away from the hostile Jews and brought by sea to Athens. Whilst waiting for Timothy and Silas Paul is stirred by the extent of the idolatry of the city. Paul speaks to the philosophers of the Epicurean and Stoic persuasions about Jesus and the resurrection - the Greeks supposed he was talking of Jesus (a male god) and Anastasis (a female god). Paul is taken to Areopagus (also called Mars Hill) and placed on trial for blasphemy (a charge that carried the death sentence if he is found guilty). Paul commences to preach to them based on an altar that he finds with the inscription "to the unknown god". He says that they are ignorantly worshipping this god. From the Greek poets Paul tells them that this God made the world and everything in it. He quotes from   several of their poets - including the well-known Hymn to Zeus (their chief god). But his primary appeal was for them to forsake idolatry and polytheism and embrace the One True God by believing that this God will judge those who do not repent and turn to Him. The majority response is to dismiss Paul's claims as they compare the Apostle to a seed picking bird, which gathers bits and pieces from everywhere. Nonetheless one Dionysius, an Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and a few others become believers. Those heaters who procrastinated by saying that they would hear Paul's teaching on another occasion missed a great opportunity for the Apostle never returned to Athens - see Ephesians 5verses16.   Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these commen

Israel's Future in Bible Prophecy:  A Biblical Exposition   Introduction: The Setting from Luke 21 As we open our Bibles to the Gospel of Luke, chapter 21, we find Jesus standing on the Mount of Olives, overlooking the city of Jerusalem. His disciples marvel at the temple's grandeur, but the Lord turns their attention to far greater matters—the signs of the end times and the destiny of His people.    In Luke 21:20-24, Jesus declares: "And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.”   Here, the Lord Jesus foretells the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, a tragic fulfillment of judgment on unbelieving Israel.    Yet, notice the phrase "until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." This points beyond that historical event to a future restoration. The "times of the Gentiles" refer to the period when Gentile powers dominate Jerusalem, but it has an end. From this vantage, Jesus shifts in verses 25-28 to cosmic signs and His return:   "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”   Luke 21 sets the stage for our study: Israel's past rebellion, present trials, and glorious future under the Messiah's reign. God's Word promises that though Israel has stumbled, He will lift them up. Let us trace this thread through Scripture, seeing God's unchanging faithfulness to His covenant people. Israel's Past: From Abraham's Call to Repeated Rejection To understand Israel's future, we must first look back to her origins. God did not find Israel as a nation; He created her. In Genesis 12:1-3, the Lord calls Abram, a Gentile idol-worshiper from Ur of the Chaldees:   "Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.”   Abram—later Abraham—became the father of the Jewish nation through Isaac and Jacob, whom God renamed Israel (Genesis 32:28). This was no accident of history; it was divine election. God promised Abraham an everlasting covenant in Genesis 17:7-8:   "And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.”   This covenant is unconditional—based on God's promise, not Israel's performance. It includes land, seed, and blessing, and it stands today. God reiterated it to Isaac (Genesis 26:3-4) and Jacob (Genesis 28:13-15), forming the twelve tribes of Israel.   Yet, from the exodus onward, Israel repeatedly rejected her Creator. In the wilderness, they murmured against Moses and God (Exodus 17:3; Numbers 14:1-4). Entering the land, they turned to idols (Judges 2:11-13).    The kings, from Saul to the divided kingdom, led them into idolatry, culminating in Assyrian and Babylonian captivities (2 Kings 17:7-18; 2 Kings 25). Prophets like Jeremiah warned of judgment for covenant unfaithfulness (Jeremiah 3:6-10).   This pattern peaked in the rejection of the Messiah Himself. The Jewish leaders knew the Scriptures foretold His coming. Psalm 22:16-18 vividly describes His crucifixion:  "For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture.”   Isaiah 53:3-6, 9-12 paints the suffering Servant: "He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. ... And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth. Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”   Micah 5:2 pinpointed His birthplace in Bethlehem. Zechariah 9:9 described His humble entry on a donkey. The religious elite studied these texts daily. Yet, when Jesus fulfilled them—born in Bethlehem, riding into Jerusalem on a colt, bearing our sins on Calvary—they rejected Him defiantly, not blindly.   In John 1:11, we read: "He came unto his own, and his own received him not." They expected a conquering general to smash Rome, not a suffering Savior (Acts 1:6). But they knew. In Matthew 27:22-25, Pilate asks, "What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ?" The crowd cries, "Let him be crucified." When warned of innocent blood, they shout, "His blood be on us, and on our children." This was open defiance. Peter charges in Acts 2:23: "Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain."    And in Acts 7:51-52, Stephen indicts: "Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers.”   Israel's history is one of gracious election met with stubborn rebellion. Yet God, in mercy, preserved a remnant through exile and diaspora, never forsaking His word.   Israel Today: A Tiny Nation Amid Global Hatred and Fleeting Peace Fast-forward to our day. Ethnic Israel—the Jewish people descended from Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—numbers about 9.6 million worldwide, with roughly 7.3 million living in the modern State of Israel. This political entity, reestablished in 1948, occupies a land about 8,500 square miles—roughly seven times the size of Rhode Island, yet smaller than many U.S. states, squeezed between vast hostile neighbors. It's a miracle of survival: a people scattered for nearly 2,000 years, regathered to their ancient homeland against all odds.   But today, antisemitism surges like a tidal wave, especially in the United States. Reports show a 21% global rise in incidents in July 2025 alone, with the U.S. seeing nearly 70% of religion-based hate crimes targeting Jews. ADL surveys reveal antisemitism has woven into daily American Jewish life—on campuses, streets, and workplaces—spiking since recent Middle East conflicts. Why this hatred? Scripture unveils the roots.   First, it's divine judgment for rejecting the Messiah. In Matthew 27:25, their cry of "His blood be on us, and on our children" echoes through generations, as Jesus warned in Luke 19:41-44: "And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.”   This "visitation" was Christ, spurned. Zechariah 12:2-3 prophesies nations gathering against Jerusalem like a "burdensome stone," a future reality foreshadowed today.   Second, Satan fuels this enmity. As the father of lies (John 8:44), he hates Israel because through her seed comes the woman's offspring who crushes his head (Genesis 3:15). Revelation 12:13 depicts the dragon (Satan) pursuing the woman (Israel):    "And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child." Satan knows Israel's role in God's redemptive plan—birthplace of the Church, guardian of Scripture, and future throne for Messiah.   Why does God allow this? To humble His people, drive them to repentance, and fulfill prophecy. Deuteronomy 28:15, 64 warns of curses for disobedience:  "But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee. ... And the LORD shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone.”   Yet, this scattering has an end. God uses hatred to refine Israel, as Hosea 5:15 states: "I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.”   Amid this, Israel boasts more peace initiatives than any nation. The Abraham Accords under President Trump in 2020 normalized ties with Arab states, and in 2025, Trump unveiled a bold 20-point Gaza peace plan, signed in its first phase, aiming for enduring prosperity without forced displacements.    Trump's "peace through strength" approach—bolstered by U.S. resolve—has invitations from leaders like Egypt's el-Sisi for regional summits. Noble as these are, Scripture warns they are fragile. Daniel 9:27 foretells a future "prince that shall come" (the Antichrist) who "shall confirm the covenant with many for one week"—a seven-year peace deal with Israel, only to break it midway: "And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.”   No human accord can thwart God's timeline. These deals set the stage for the ultimate betrayal.     We must distinguish: Ethnic Israel is God's covenant people, the physical descendants of Abraham (Romans 9:4-5).    Political Israel is the modern state—a vessel for prophecy, but not the full spiritual fulfillment yet.  God preserves the nation, but salvation comes to individuals who repent.   God Is Not Done with Israel: Insights from Romans 9-10 Turn to Romans 9-10, where Paul, a Jew of Jews, wrestles with his people's unbelief. He affirms God's irrevocable gifts in Romans 11:29: "For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance." But chapters 9-10 explain the tension.   In Romans 9:1-5, Paul's anguish pours out: "I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.”   Israel has every advantage—covenants, law, promises—yet many reject Christ. Paul explains in Romans 9:30-33: "What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.”   Their zeal without knowledge (Romans 10:2) led to defiance.    Yet God hardens whom He will (Romans 9:18), not arbitrarily, but to fulfill mercy on both Jews and Gentiles (Romans 11:11-12, 25-27): "I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? ... For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.”   "All Israel shall be saved"—a national turning to Messiah at His return. Paul quotes Isaiah 59:20-21 and 27:9, confirming future restoration.     Beware of replacement theology, the dangerous error claiming the Church has permanently supplanted Israel in God's plan. It twists Romans 11 to say the "olive tree" is only the Church, erasing Israel's distinct promises. This denies the land covenant (Genesis 15:18), ignores prophecies like Ezekiel 37's dry bones reviving as a nation, and contradicts Paul's plea in Romans 10:1: "Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved."    This desire points future, not past. God has two programs: one for the Church (the body of Christ, Jew and Gentile in one, Ephesians 2:14-16), and one for national Israel. To merge them robs God of His faithfulness and fuels antisemitism by devaluing the Jewish people. Though Israel has defied Him—from golden calf to crucifying the King—God loves His covenant people. Jeremiah 31:3 whispers: "The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee."    He cannot break covenant; Numbers 23:19 assures: "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?”   Israel's Future: Tribulation, Invasion, and Glorious Restoration The road ahead is stormy, but victory dawns. Zechariah 12:10 promises: "And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.”   The Great Tribulation: Judgment and Awakening The Tribulation—a seven-year period of Jacob's trouble (Jeremiah 30:7)—brings global wrath, but especially on Israel. Why? First, to judge unbelieving Jews and the world for sin. Revelation 6-19 details seals, trumpets, and bowls of judgment. Second, to break Israel's defiance, as Zechariah 13:8-9 foretells:  "And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.”   Third, to prepare earth for Christ's return in Revelation 19:11-16, where He treads the winepress of wrath: "And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. ... And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”   During this horror, Israel becomes a focal point—and unwilling host to the world. Revelation 12:6 describes: "And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days." Multitudes flee to Israel seeking refuge, only to face Antichrist's fury. Yet, salvation breaks through. God seals 144,000 Jewish evangelists from the tribes (Revelation 7:4-8)—12,000 from each—to proclaim the Gospel worldwide.    Two witnesses in Jerusalem, empowered, most likely Moses and Elijah, prophesy for 1,260 days, calling fire from heaven and striking with plagues (Revelation 11:3-6): "And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. ... And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed. These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.” Their ministry awakens thousands. When slain, God resurrects them before a watching world (Revelation 11:7-12). Many Jews repent, fulfilling Romans 11:26. As Antichrist's abomination desecrates the temple (Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15), believing Jews flee to Petra (Bozrah), the rose-red city of Edom. Jesus urged in Matthew 24:15-21:  "When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: ... For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.”   God supernaturally protects them there for 1,260 days (Revelation 12:14), as Micah 2:12 gathers a remnant to "Mizpah"—a stronghold.   The Ezekiel 38-39 Invasion: Gog's Futile Assault Before or early in the Tribulation, a massive coalition attacks a seemingly secure Israel. Ezekiel 38:1-6, 8-9, 14-16 describes: "And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him, And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal: And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed with all sorts of armour, even a great company with bucklers and shields, all of them handling swords: Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya with them; all of them with shield and helmet: Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands: and many people with thee. ... After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword, and is gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them. Thou shalt ascend and come like a storm, thou shalt be like a cloud to cover the land, thou, and all thy bands, and many people with thee. ... Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say unto Gog, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In that day when my people of Israel dwelleth safely, shalt thou not know it? And thou shalt come from thy place out of the north parts, thou, and many people with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great company, and a mighty army: And thou shalt come up against my people of Israel, as a cloud to cover the land; it shall be in the latter days, and I will bring thee against my land, that the heathen may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.”   Gog (a title, perhaps Russia's leader) leads Magog (Russia), Persia (Iran), Ethiopia, Libya, Gomer (Turkey), and Togarmah. They invade for spoil, when Israel dwells "safely"—perhaps post-peace deal. God allows it to reveal His holiness (Ezekiel 38:16, 23).  But He intervenes supernaturally in Ezekiel 38:18-23; 39:1-6: "And it shall come to pass at the same time when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord GOD, that my fury shall come up in my face. For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel; So that the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the heaven, and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth, shall shake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground. And I will call for a sword against him throughout all my mountains, saith the Lord GOD: every man's sword shall be against his brother. And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone. Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD. ... Therefore, thou son of man, prophesy against Gog, and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal: And I will turn thee back, and leave but the sixth part of thee, and will cause thee to come up from the north parts, and will bring thee upon the mountains of Israel: And I will smite thy bow out of thy left hand, and will cause thine arrows to fall out of thy right hand. Thou shalt fall upon the mountains of Israel, thou, and all thy bands, and the people that is with thee: I will give thee unto the ravenous birds of every sort, and to the beasts of the field to be devoured. Thou shalt fall upon the open field: for I have spoken it, saith the Lord GOD. And I will send a fire on Magog, and among them that dwell carelessly in the isles: and they shall know that I am the LORD.”   Birds and beasts feast on the dead (Ezekiel 39:17-20), and it takes seven months to bury them (39:12).  God uses this to turn Israel to Him (39:21-22, 29): "And I will set my glory among the heathen, and all the heathen shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid upon them. So the house of Israel shall know that I am the LORD their God from that day and forward. ... Neither will I hide my face any more from them: for I have poured out my spirit upon the house of Israel, saith the Lord GOD.”   The Antichrist's Treachery and Christ's Victorious Return The Antichrist emerges as a false peace-broker, confirming that seven-year covenant (Daniel 9:27). But midway, he betrays: halting sacrifices, setting up his image in the temple (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4): "Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.”   He persecutes Jews savagely (Daniel 7:25: "And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High"), demanding worship (Revelation 13:15).   But Christ returns! In Revelation 19:19-21: "And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.”   He binds Satan (Revelation 20:1-3) and crushes Israel's foes at Armageddon (Zechariah 14:1-4, 9): "Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in thee. For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle. And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south. ... And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.”   The Millennial Restoration: Blessing Beyond Eden With enemies vanquished, Christ establishes His 1,000-year kingdom (Revelation 20:4-6). Israel, at last, fulfills her calling as head of nations (Isaiah 2:2-3). Zechariah 8:1-3, 7-8, 12-13 paints the joy: "Again the word of the LORD of hosts came to me, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I was jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and I was jealous for her with great fury. Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain. ... Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will save my people from the east country, and from the west country; And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness. ... For the seed shall be prosperous; the vine shall give her fruit, and the ground shall give her increase, and the heavens shall give their dew; and I will cause the remnant of this people to possess all these things. And it shall come to pass, that as ye were a curse among the heathen, O house of Judah, and house of Israel; so will I save you, and ye shall be a blessing: fear not, but let your hands be strong.”   The desert blooms (Isaiah 35:1-2: "The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing").    En-Gedi's shores overflow with fish (Ezekiel 47:8-10): "Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea: which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass, that every thing that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live: and there shall be a very great multitude of fish, because these waters shall come thither: for they shall be healed; and every thing shall live whither the river cometh. And it shall come to pass, that the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many.”   Israel becomes the world's economic powerhouse, exporting blessings (Zechariah 8:13). Nations stream to Jerusalem for instruction (Micah 4:1-2). The wolf dwells with the lamb (Isaiah 11:6-9), pre-Edenic harmony restored.   Beyond the Millennium, after final rebellion and judgment (Revelation 20:7-15), God creates new heavens and earth (Revelation 21:1-4; Isaiah 65:17; 66:22). No more curse—eternal joy, with redeemed Israel and Church worshiping the Lamb forever.   Beloved, Israel's story is God's story: rebellion met with grace. Though they defied Him, He pursues with everlasting love. As Luke 21 urges, when signs unfold, "look up"—redemption draws near. May we, like Paul, pray for Israel's salvation, standing firm on God's unbreakable Word. Amen.

How can I have tough conversations with my family during the holidays? Dave reminds us the importance of building trust and getting to know someone before you try to evangelize them; even your own family, can have wounds they are hiding. Listen to them, pray for them, fast for them, respond with love. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Hosea writes this week about the adultery of his wife Gomer through the perspective of a message unto his 3 children. Through this we learn several lessons, culminating in a call to remember the God from whom all blessings flow.

October 26, 2025 Speaker: Pastor Spencer Peterson http://www.hiawathachurch.com

The family of the prophet Hosea is certainly one of the most unconventional families in the Bible. His marrying of an unfaithful woman was meant to serve as a metaphor of God’s relationship with Israel, and a call for their repentance of their spiritual infidelity. Teacher: Allen Hutchison

THE FORMER AND THE LATER RAIN Hosea was a prophet to the northern kingdom of Israel (also called Ephraim) during the 8th century B.C.  God commands Hosea to marry Gomer, a harlot, to symbolize Israel's unfaithfulness to Him. Hosea is the same Hebrew word as Joshua and Jesus. Hosea was the Old Testament prophet with the message for God's People to inherit the land of promise, and Joshua succeeded Moses as the deliverer of Israel and took them across the Jordan into the land of promise. And Jesus takes humanity into a spiritual land of promise, not earthly territory but the soil of the heart. God refers to Israel as his bride (Isaiah 62:5, Isaiah 54) and he also calls her unfaithful, as a harlot (Jeremiah 3:1). In Ephesians 5 Paul calls the Church the bride of Christ and he fears for the church going astray by being beguiled from the simplicity that is in Christ.  For I have divine jealousy for you. Betrothing you to one husband, that I may present you as a pure virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ (2 Corinthians 11) So we have this story of both Israel and the Church as being God's beloved bride and who go through times of unfaithfulness to God and being made desolate - and finally turning back to God in their time of affliction to be revived and restored.  God says to Israel after they have been stubbornly going astray that he is going to leave them to themselves to go their own way and that he will go and return to his place (Heaven) - and that In their affliction they will earnestly seek Me. And that is what is happening in the earth and in the church today Hosea 5:15 God says, I will return again to My place till they acknowledge their offense. Then they will seek My face; In their affliction they will earnestly seek Me. And then they will say "Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us but he will heal us; he has afflicted us but he will bind up our wounds. After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence. Let us know, let us pursue the knowledge of the LORD. His going from us is established as the morning, and He will come to us like the rain, like the former and latter rain to the earth. There is no mention that Israel was ever revived and restored after two days during the prophecy of Hosea – It was a prophecy of future hope. He prophesied for 30 to 40 years and Israel never repented and at the end of his prophecy Israel were defeated by the Assyrians. So what does this mean that ‘after two days I will revive you', and in the third day you will live in my presence? It means that we have to see these two days as prophetic periods of time that the Apostle Peter later writes about.  Israel failed in their allegiance to the provisions and promises of God and still now the promise of full possession of their Promised Land awaits them. That promise is one of occupying their earthly territory in the Middle East. But the promise to the Church is to spiritually inherit and occupy the fullness of the spiritual blessings we have in Christ.  Let us look at the interpretation of this prophetic period of time spoken of by Peter. 2Peter 3:8 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish (waste their lives), but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away (lyo – moved aside) with a roar, and the heavenly bodies (elemental particles) will be burned up and dissolved (a purifying fire), and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed. If one day can be counted as a thousand years then 6 days would be six thousand years. The genealogies of the Bible show that it is now about six thousand years from the time of Adam. In fact I read in an archeological journal recently that civilisation in cities can only be traced back four thousand years, around the area of ancient Ur in the Chaldees, where Abraham lived and from where he was called to go out and prepare for the Hebrew people to possess the Land of Promise. That occurred in around 2000 years BC. Christ appeared on the earth about 2000 years later. And now we are about 2000 years later at around 6000 years from Adam, according to Biblical genealogy.  (Notice I used the word ‘about' a few times – no exactness' – how many people were in the upper room at Pentecost? The bible says about 120!) And what does ‘living in His presence in the third day' mean? That would describe the next one thousand years after the 6000 which would mean the seventh day - the one thousand years of rest – Six days of of work and one day of rest God at work redeeming humanity then a day of rest – the millennium So if we apply the saying ‘I will go and return to my place and after 2 days I will return' it echoes the words of Jesus 2000 years ago when he spoke to his disciples, because the last time that God said to his people that he would return and go to his place was when Jesus spoke to his disciples before his ascension into Heaven.  John 14:2 I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also… the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.   When God left Israel and returned to his place (Heaven) he was giving Israel time to consider their ways in their afflictions and to seek his face and return to him. And in due course in the latter days Israel will be revived and live in his presence. They will receive the healing of their souls from the former and latter rains of revival from the Holy Spirit.  In Israel they had both the spiritual and the agricultural seasons of year. The agricultural season after Pentecost brought the dry months – empty years - and towards the end of that period would come the former rain softening the earth and then the latte rain bringing the harvest. For us spiritually today the former rain is the softening of the hearts of humanity with the water of God's word along with being broken and churned up and softened through afflictions. That prepares us for the latter rains of spiritual revival for us to become the people that we really are. The great and awesome day of the Lord is always getting closer no matter when we make our best-guess estimates – there is no exactness - but we're living in days when there are worse things happening in the world than ever before. We will see not only more darkness and tribulation in the earth than ever before, but I have an expectation to see more spiritual activity of the Holy Spirit than we have seen before, as in the past visitations of God since Pentecost, and I believe we're in the beginnings of that right now. Too many good words have been spoken and have fallen on deaf ears and hard hearts. But good seed has been sown and the grace of God and the works of God are going to become more manifest and that will open people's eyes and give them ears that are ready to hear in these present times. And while the double portion of healing rains is softening the wounded hearts and ripening the seeds the fruit of the Spirit will speedily become evident in transformed hearts and minds. The Bible says that Workers will still be harvesting when it is time to plough the fields again. They will still be trampling the grapes when it is time for a new crop. Sweet wine will drip from the mountains and pour from the hills (Amos 9:13). As you walk your steady path of grace and truth and love you can expect God to overtake you and go ahead of you. We are living in the day of the former and the latter rains.          

“The kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that will produce its fruit.” Mike and Dave explore the Parable of the Wicked Tenants, reminding us that a humble heart is key to truly following the Lord. Pause and ask yourself: what fruit are you producing today? We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Listen now as Pastor Tyler Johnson shows us the story of Hosea and Gomer and how Jesus is calling us to love people with the same overflowing compassion He first showed us. To stay connected to what's happening at Mission Church, follow us on any of the following platforms. Instagram instagram.com/missionchurchca Podcast missionchurchca.com/watch Newsletter missionchurchca.com/updates Website missionchurchca.com

The Season 1 Gomers are halfway to the Half Marathon! Here's some highlights from Episode 8: See you next week in the present! Subscribe to the Bonus Disc, our second podcast, for up to four bonus episodes per month: www.patreon.com/twogomers All things Two Gomers : linktr.ee/twogomers

“But because he wished to justify himself, he said to Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbor?'” Mike and Dave break down the Parable of the Good Samaritan, explain why this story is so important and expand on the radical love Jesus calls us to. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Luke and Gomer spend an hour and a half explaining the nuances of The Little Mermaid, covering what separates a well-written villain from a bad one. It's educational and, at times, entertaining. Enjoy! Thank you to Saint Kolbe Studios (https://saintkolbestudios.com/) for producing this episode of Catching Foxes!

Dan emphasized that burnout exists on a spectrum and is more about internal dialogue than external stressors. He explained that stress often comes from unmet expectations, and entrepreneurs must learn to shift their relationship with stress rather than eliminate it. Building resilience involves mindset, efficiency, and constant reprioritization, supported by tools like assistants or AI. He also highlighted the importance of responsibility and acceptance, noting that growth begins when individuals take ownership of their circumstances. Dan encouraged creating space for reflection, making decisions from a calm state, and setting realistic expectations. By focusing on resilience, resourcefulness, and clarity, entrepreneurs can better manage stress, avoid burnout, and move forward with purpose.

Do you struggle to humble yourself when you make a mistake? Mike and Dave discuss the parable of the Prodigal Son and explain the personal and Eucharistic themes found in this parable. They also share the importance of doing pro-life work in the midst of a pro-death culture. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

In our faith journey, we often encounter moments that challenge our understanding of God's ways. Today, we delve into the fascinating realm of 'holy weirdness' – those instances in Scripture where God calls His prophets to perform strange, even shocking acts. We explore examples like Ezekiel's symbolic siege, Hosea's marriage to Gomer, and Isaiah's naked prophecy. These accounts remind us that God's methods can be unpredictable and uncomfortable, stretching us beyond our comfort zones. As we approach the end times, we may witness more of these perplexing spiritual manifestations. The key lesson here is to cultivate discernment, humility, and an open heart. We're encouraged to slow down our judgments, seek the Lord's guidance, and remember that while God is not the author of confusion, He may use the unconventional to grab our attention and convey profound truths. This episode of Mavericks & Misfits challenges us to examine our own spiritual boxes and preconceptions, inviting us to embrace a faith that's alive, dynamic, and sometimes wonderfully weird.

10/5/2025 Hosea 3:4-5 Great News For Israel ….Jesus Will Be their King Intro: Hosea was to the northern kingdom what Jeremiah was to the southern kingdom, a weeping prophet. Hosea looked in the future to the Assyrian captivity of the northern kingdom, just as Jeremiah looked forward to the Babylonian captivity of the southern kingdom. Hosea's prophecy is closely related to that of Amos. Both Amos and Hosea prophesied to the northern kingdom, although Amos was a native of the southern kingdom and Hosea of the northern kingdom. Hosea was the younger contemporary of Amos, and because their ministries overlap, there is much similarity in the sins they condemn. In Amos, the prophetic discourses are very pronounced, while in Hosea, because of the intense personal involvement of the prophet, they are not very distinctly defined from one another, a fact that makes the book difficult to outline. Hosea dates his prophecy” in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel” (1:1). Hosea's ministry extended from about (770 to 725 B.C.). Thus, his active ministry ceased a few years before Assyria carried the northern kingdom into captivity (in 722 B.C.). The theme of Hosea is God's loyal love for His covenant people, Israel, in spite of their idolatry. Thus, Hosea has been called John (the apostle of love) of the Old Testament. The Lord's true love from His people is unending and will tolerate no rival Hosea's message contains much condemnation, both national and individual, but at the same time, he poignantly portrays the love of God toward His people with passionate emotion. Hosea was instructed by God to marry a certain woman and experience with her a domestic life which was a dramatization of the sin and unfaithfulness of Israel. The marital life of Hosea and his wife, Gomer, who at times was a prostitute, provide the rich metaphor which clarifies the themes of the book; sin, judgment and forgiving love.

Brother Johnny PierreOctober 10, 2025Wednesday Evening

Are you blind to the needs of your neighbor? Mike and Dave unpack “The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus”, breaking down this story, line by line. They remind us that Jesus repeatedly warns us about the dangers of wealth and that service, worship of God and loving our neighbor is how we truly love God. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Dan delivered a motivational session focused on personal transformation through the “3 Rs”: Resiliency, Resourcefulness, and Responsibility. He shared inspiring stories — including one of a team member overcoming incredible hardships — to demonstrate how resilience comes from mindset, relationships, and self-care. He emphasized that mental and emotional strength begins with controlling our thoughts and energy.Dan also stressed that success isn't about waiting for someone to save you — it's about being resourceful with what's available and taking full responsibility for your actions and outcomes. His core message: when you stop playing the victim and start owning your choices, you gain true power to change your life and positively impact others.

September 28, 2025 🧡 Message Overview We all love a good love story — from fictional classics like Romeo and Juliet to blockbuster romances like Titanic. But the Bible's love story between Hosea and Gomer is no fairy tale — it's raw, heartbreaking, and profoundly real. In it, God uses Hosea's marriage to a prostitute … Continue reading "A Bride Named Gomer"

We start off today learning aboiut a soon to be dad that went all out for the gender reveal party, Bad Bunny is playing the Super Bowl, where does Beyonce keep the rest of Destiny's Child, did Tayor Swift turn down the Super Bowl Half Time Show.  Snoop doing the winter olympics, and somehow Don Knotts crept into the conversation.  LINKS:Gender reveal party dad sank 10 pints, snorted cocaine and stabbed bouncer - The MirrorBad Bunny revealed as Super Bowl half-time show performerSnoop Dogg returning to NBC Olympics coverage at Milan Cortina Winter GamesReport: Taylor Swift walks away from Super Bowl LX halftime showThe Treehouse Show is a Dallas based comedy podcast. Leave your worries outside and join Dan O'Malley, Trey Trenholm, Raj Sharma, and their guests for laughs about funny news, viral stories, and hilarious commentary.The Treehouse WebsiteGet MORE from the Treehouse Show on PatreonGet a FREE roof inspection from the best company in DFW:Cook DFW Roofing & Restoration For the BEST haunted house in DFW:Best Haunted House in DFWCLICK HERE TO DONATE:The RMS Treehouse Listeners Foundation

How do we make sense of parables that seem confusing at first? What does Jesus mean when He says to “make friends with dishonest wealth”? Gomer unpacks The Parable of the Dishonest Steward and shows why it's essential to consider the context - the time, place, and people - when we try to understand the deeper meaning of Christ's parables. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

The book of Hosea delivers a powerful message about God's relentless love despite human unfaithfulness. Through the prophet's marriage to Gomer, God illustrates His relationship with Israel, who had turned to Baal worship. Despite Israel's spiritual adultery, God promises not punishment but restoration—transforming the Valley of Achor into a door of hope. He pledges to 'betroth' Israel to Himself forever with gifts of righteousness, justice, loving kindness, mercy, and faithfulness. This ancient message speaks powerfully today: no matter our past failures, God can spiritually restore us and establish an intimate relationship with us.

This episode offers everything you've ever wanted to know about The Lion King and then some. It's basically a free Shakespeare class. Plus, why music makes you feel certain ways and the Mary Sue character in the new Star Wars movies. Enjoy!

How do I make sense of the seed, soil, rocky ground, and thorns? Dave explains the Parable of the Sower and shares how it can be applied to our lives. He also gives advice as to how we can plant seeds on good soil and how we can bear fruit in our own lives. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

In a week filled with tragedy and noise, we pause to ask a deeper question: Who are we becoming? The prophets remind us that God's concern is not just with our actions, but with the kind of people we are being formed into. Hosea's marriage to Gomer—a story of unfaithfulness met with relentless love—stands as a living parable of God's covenant with His people. Though we often place our hope in politics, wealth, or personal success, God calls us back to Himself, offering restoration and a new identity. This message invites us to reflect: Is our life a demonstration of the world's values, or of divine love? And if we continue on the path we're walking today, what kind of person are we becoming for eternity?

Why does Jesus conceal his teachings through parables rather than speaking straight forward? Mike and Dave kick off their new topic discussion on the parables and explain how the parables invite you into a mystery and teach you to slow down. Mike and Dave invite you to join them into the mystery of unpacking the parables and give tips to understand the parables better. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Mike Gormley and Dave VanVickle conclude their series on Pope Leo XIV, exploring themes of idolatry, key Biblical lessons, and how his papacy compares with those of earlier popes. They also give a sneak peek into their upcoming season on the parables! We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Anthony D'Ambrosio of Triumph of the Heart stops by the show to talk about the process of bringing Saint Maximilian Kolbe's story to life. Get the inside scoop on what it takes to make a Catholic movie that doesn't actually suck. Enjoy!

En el episodio de hoy de Plan de vida estudiaremos acerca:El libro de Oseas es una trágica historia con un final felizOseas fue un profeta en el reino del norte, Israel, antes de su caída en el 722 a. C.Su ministerio se extendió 40 añosDios le ordena a Oseas casarse con una mujer infiel llamada GomerDespués de darle 3 hijos a Oseas, Gomer le es infiel y el matrimonio queda destruidoAl final Oseas exhorta a Gomer a que arrepienta y le ofrece perdón y restauraciónOseas utiliza esta experiencia con gomer para ilustrar la experiencia de Dios con IsraelQue tu lectura bíblica sea guiada por el Espíritu Santo hoy.¡Únete a ⁠⁠⁠nuestra comunidad en Facebook⁠⁠⁠ donde podrás hacer preguntas mientras leemos la Biblia juntas y conocer a otras mujeres que también están usando el plan!Síguenos⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sitio web⁠⁠⁠Recursos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast semanal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Estudios bíblicos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Academia de Relaciones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠El plan en YouVersion

Today's Scripture passages are 2 Kings 16:10-20 | Isaiah 17 | 2 Chronicles 28:16-27 | 2 Kings 15:30-31 | 2 Kings 17:1-2 | 2 Kings 18:1-8 | Hosea 1 - 2:1 | Philemon 1:1-7.(Please note Isaiah 17:13 should read, "Though these people make an uproar as loud as the roaring of powerful waves, when he shouts at them, they will flee to a distant land, driven before the wind like dead weeds on the hills, or like dead thistles before a strong gale."2 Chronicles 28:23 should read, "He offered sacrifices to the gods of Damascus whom he thought had defeated him. He reasoned, 'Since the gods of the kings of Syria helped them, I will sacrifice to them so they will help me.' But they caused him and all Israel to stumble.")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 IVPOD25 for 25% off 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 LeeDisclaimer: 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.

What happens when a big time movie star gets popped for speeding while rolling through Mayberry? He just may learn the value of connection and community, that's what!Mayberry Man… first a movie, then a series… was inspired by the reverent fervor that is the annual Mayberry Days Festival which takes place annually in Andy Griffith's hometown of Mount Airy, North Carolina. Producer Gregory Schell and Writer/Director Stark Howell are both second generation Mayberry progeny and their experiences at the festival inspired them to crate the Mayberry Man franchise.Greg and Stark both have dads who made two Andy Griffith Show appearances, Hoke Howell and Ronnie Schell. Ronnie then went on to co-star with Mayberry's own Gomer Pyle on Gomer Pyle USMC.Greg and Stark join us in-studio to help us welcome Zoom guests, Allan Newsome who plays the Floyd the Barber re-enactor and Chris Bauman, who brings Gomer to life. They share their histories of falling in love with those characters, stepping into their shoes and clothing, meeting festival fans and now sharing their portrayals onscreen in Mayberry Man.Stark's Dad Hoke was besties with Rance Howard. Together, they pursued their acting and writing careers while Rance's kids Ron and Clint played little league and created early films with the Howell boys.Stark's brother, producer Cort Howell, shares how he used crowdfunding, targeted marketing and fan community building to bring Mayberry Man to life. Plus, Greg reflects on growing up in the shadow of an actor/comedian father and Stark shares his earliest screen role, co-starring with Clint Howard, in a 14-year-old Ron Howard's third Super 8 film classic, Cards, Cads, Guns, Gore & Death.And in current media, Weezy enlightens Fritz as to the internet outrage regarding Big Brother's Rylie and Katharine showmance and Fritz shares his enthusiasm for the new Spike Lee 'joint' Highest 2 Lowest, now in theatersPath Points of Interest:Mayberry Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Mayberry-Man-Brett-Varvel/dp/B0B8NNSYR9https://www.mayberryman.com/home-zMayberry Man The Serieshttps://www.primevideo.com/detail/Mayberry-Man-The-Series/0OW0MU66B6JJM52GUUWO3CQQ8Khttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt24222046/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_lkGregory Schell on InstagramStark Howell on IMDBCort HowellAllan NewsomeTwo Chairs No Waiting PodcastChris Bauman Big BrotherHighest 2 LowestMedia Path PodcastMedia Path on FacebookMedia Path on InstagramMedia Path on XMedia Path on BlueskyLouise Palanker on TiktokFritz Coleman on Tiktok

Do you just read the Bible or do you let God speak to you through His word? Mike Gormley and Dave Vanvickle finish up their reflections on Pope Leo XIV's general audiences and applaud the pope for his hyper focus on breaking down the Gospel. We're reminded it's not about just reading Scripture, but about slowing down and letting God transform our hearts and minds. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Has our world gotten flatter? Are all the edges of culture rounded out and mass produced to the lowest common denominator? Luke and Gomer discuss how movies have lost their soul and houses have gotten gray and boring (and badly made). Take a shot anytime two men in their 40s discuss interior design on this episode (maybe don't listen to this one in the car). Enjoy!

In this dynamic class, Dan and Autumn break down one of the most important mindset shifts in real estate: the difference between operating as an employee versus an entrepreneur. With Allison joining as a licensed instructor, they explore why so many agents crave entrepreneurial freedom but still approach the business with an employee mindset—and how that limits growth.

Is there an area of your life you want healed? Mike Gormley continues his reflection on Pope Leo's general audiences and explains what to do with your sickness and brokeness. He reminds us that no matter what is paralyzing you, God can bring you out of any situation. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Hosea's preaching takes a Gospel turn as the LORD promises to woo Israel anew as His bride. No longer will they call upon Him in idolatrous worship, but they will call upon Him as their Husband according to His holy name. In this wedding between God and His people, He invites them to dwell with Him as He once dwelt with Adam and Eve in Eden. The LORD's command that Hosea bring back Gomer, despite her unfaithfulness, provides a living sermon of the LORD's faithfulness even to His faithless people, finally brought to fulfillment in the work of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Rev. Tim Sandeno, pastor at St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Wykoff, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Hosea 2:14-3:5.  To learn more about St. John's Lutheran, visit stjohns-wykoff.org/home-2.  “Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

The LORD called Hosea to preach to the northern kingdom, Israel, during times that were prosperous economically but horrific theologically. The first part of Hosea's book centers on the LORD's command for Hosea to marry a wife of whoredom, Gomer. Through Hosea's marriage, the LORD provides a living sermon of the relationship between Himself and Israel. The names given to the three children of Hosea and Gomer all initially preach against the idolatry of Israel, and yet, the LORD will later turn the meanings of these names on their head to give His Gospel promises of His faithfulness.  Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Hosea 1:1-11. To learn more about Bethlehem Lutheran, visit bethlehemossian.org. “Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

The August 2025 JW Broadcast is the gift that keeps on giving. After asking Jehovah's Witnesses to set up recurring payments to the organization, Governing Body member Stephen Lett teaches us how to be hospitable like they are, why we should be like the prophet Hosea and encourages us to sing along to the new music video showing sisters performing free labor!TWITTER: @exjwpodcastINSTAGRAM: survivingparadisepodcast

Are you in need of healing? Are you retreating from reality? Mike Gormley and Dave VanVickle continue their reflections on Pope Leo's general audiences while discussing the importance of facing what you're afraid of, letting go of our egos and trusting in the Lord with all your heart. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

Mike 'Gomer' Gormley and Dave 'The Perfect Weather' VanVickle dive deep into Pope Leo's reflection on the parable of the laborers in the vineyard. They highlight the importance of responding to God's call without delay, generosity, and the profound question of finding meaning in life. Snippet from the Show We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow

AI has plenty of potential upsides. Helping you think more deeply about life isn't one of them. Maybe, if done wrong, it helps us fulfill our worst desires. Will AI reduce us to simply our desires? Can it free up time in our lives to contemplate the truth? Also, there's a lengthy discussion about sex with robots towards the end. It's topical, we promise, but maybe don't listen to this one with your kids. Maybe don't listen to any Catching Foxes episodes with your kids. Enjoy!

Mike Gormley emphasizes the importance of hope, while meditating on Pope Leo's reflections, praising his ability to speak on the human and spiritual level. Gormley also analyzes the Pope's General Audiences as he dissects two popular parables, “The Parable of the Sower” and the “Good Samaritan”. Snippet from the Show “Look at your life, look at the daily circumstances, and ask yourself, ‘Okay, what situation right now is God using, is God leveraging, to reach me, to bring the grace, of His word into my life?'” We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow