Podcasts about Hosea

Jase and Al open the episode with a sheepish “my bad” after a producer fact-checks one of their rock-'n'-roll memories. What started as an innocent mix-up turns into a full-blown investigation involving parade floats, PETA, and a certain ‘80s icon who wasn't who they thought she was. The guys marvel at how a simple slip becomes “fake news.” The guys connect the crown on Jesus' brow back to Adam's curse, and examine how unbridled idolatry leads to the ruination of generations of lives.  In this episode: John 19, verse 5; Genesis 3, verses 17–18; 1 Corinthians 15, verses 42–57; Hosea 13, verse 14; 1 Peter 2, verses 13–25 “Unashamed” Episode 1207 is sponsored by: http://frontline21.com — Embrace biblical masculinity. Download the Frontline21 field guide for men and 21-day devotional at no cost to you Kimchi One from Brightcore – Improve your health, improve your life. 25% Off with code: UNASHAMED at https://mybrightcore.com/unashamed Or dial (888) 404-9677 for up to 50% OFF and Free Shipping – ONLY when you call! https://duckstamp.com/unashamed — Get your all-new digital duck stamp today. It's easier than ever! https://cozyearth.com/unashamed — Get up to 40% off when you use our link or code UNASHAMED! https://preborn.com/unashamed — Visit the PreBorn! website or dial #250 and use keyword BABY to donate today. http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ — Sign up now for free, and join the Unashamed hosts every Friday for Unashamed Academy Powered by Hillsdale College Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters: 00:00-5:00 We're sorry, Pat Benatar! 05:01-9:08 The cost of unbridled sexual sin 9:09-20:04 Jesus was the “second Adam” 20:15-30:56 Idolatry is the ultimate sin 30:57-37:32 Adam is cursed with thorns  37:33-42:42 Faith & good works are inseparable 42:43-50:00 The least-preached verse in the Bible 50:01-56:38 Submission was the key to saving the world — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ezra 9 tells of the problems of those who had married nonbelievers. Verse 4 tells that the rulers and officials had been at the forefront of those who had disobeyed God's command about this. The reader should look at Malachi 2verses10-16 and Nehemiah 13verses23-27 to understand Yahweh's views on this subject; and why His prophets were so strong in denouncing this practice. From verse 10-15 Ezra seeks God's forgiveness of His people for their wrongful ways in marrying out of the Truth and counsels all of God's people to forsake that dangerous and evil course.Hosea 10 tells of a vine that produced no fruit for God. How often do the prophets and the Lord Jesus Christ take up this theme cp Isaiah 5 and consider the number of references in the last week of our Lord to the barrenness of the fruitless, but showy fig tree. Also see John 15 where our Lord comments on himself being the vine. Without fruit a vine is useless - its wood is poor fuel; its wood cannot be used to make anything. We are useless unless we are producing the fruit of the spirit for God in our lives (see Galatians 5verses22-25; and Ephesians 5verses8-16). But for Israel when the LORD looked at their actions, instead of fruit, He saw poisonous weeds. Instead of sincere worship of Yahweh He saw the idolatrous calf worship. Bethel (meaning "the house of God") becomes Bethaven ("the house of vanity" - or "nothingness"). The result of this would be the delivering up to captivity of Israel to nations who were themselves ruled by idolatry. Israel's sinfulness was evident from earliest times, even when the Tabernacle was at Gibeah. The Lord God would again bring them under the yoke, when they will finally learn righteousness and will open their hearts to God as the poetic symbol of breaking open the fallow ground of their hearts suggests. By doing this God would be able to rain blessings on them. But the coming judgment would be a necessary part of helping Israel to learn this.Paul sent the letter to the Colossians in about 62 AD. He never personally visited the region where there were two groups of believers - one in Colossae and the other in Laodicea. The one letter was read by both at this time and about 34 years' time when another letter was sent in 96 AD by the Lord Jesus Christ. The area was exceptionally fertile and lay in a very rich valley. The epistle commenced with the greeting "Grace ('charis' the Greek greeting) and peace ('shalom' the Jewish greeting) coming to the believers from God our Father. This is followed by thanksgiving and prayer for their faithfulness in the gospel as reported to the Apostle from Epaphras. The believers were increasing in knowledge and love. But the greatest of all thanks was to be expressed to God, our Father, who had "qualified us to share the inheritance of the saints in light ... and has transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son" (verses 12-13 ESV). Then from verses 14-23 Paul tells us of the pre-eminence of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father. Our Lord Jesus is the beginning (Gk 'archegos') and head of God's new creation and is the firstborn (Jesus firstborn by birth, death and resurrection) of that creation; the firstborn from the dead to be raised to eternal life. Verses 24-29 tell of Paul's suffering for all Gentile believers, that he might share and participate in the sufferings of Christ (as part of his body, which we, the ecclesia are). In verse 27 we have the key verse and theme of the book, "Christ in you (i.e. each of us) the hope of glory".Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Acts 28 tells of the entire company of the ship arriving safely on Malta at a place today known as St Paul's Bay. Here the ship's company will remain over winter until Paul journeys to Rome. The night of their arrival is cold and wet. A fire is kindled to dry them and to provide warmth. As Paul assists with the gathering of wood for the fire a venomous viper comes out from the fire and sinks its fangs into Paul's hand. The superstitious locals think Paul must have been a murderer who having escaped the vengeance of the sea is now being punished by God. Paul shakes the snake into the fire. The locals watch Paul waiting for him to convulse, swell up and die an agonising death - none of these things happen. So, they change their minds into thinking that he must be a god. Paul now is lodged for three days with the chief man of the island named Publius. Publius' father is sick with dysentery; but is miraculously healed by the Apostle. After leaving Malta three months later Paul takes a ship to the mainland where the journey to Rome continues. Along the journey Paul is given the privileges not normally given to a prisoner. The Apostle stops and meets several groups of believers on his journey to Rome. In Rome he calls together the local Jewish leaders and explains why he is in Rome. These Jewish leaders had received no information from any other Jews concerning Paul. After discussing his case it is thought that he might be set at liberty. The Apostle says that he was left with no alternative than to put his case before Caesar when the Judean Jews objected to his being released. The Roman Jews reveal that they have heard that the Christian sect is everywhere spoken against. A large gathering of Jews comes to Paul's place of residence at an appointed time. The aged Apostle tells them from morning to evening the message of the prophets. Paul concludes his address with the words of Isaiah 6 in chapter 6 which prophesied Jewish opposition to the Gospel message. The great Apostle claims that the Gentiles will favourably respond to the teaching of Christ. The book of Acts commenced in chapter 1verses8 with the need for the gospel to be taken "to the uttermost parts of the earth" and concluded with that task being completedverses see Jesus great commission to the Apostles in Mark 16verses15-16. And also, after Paul's miraculous preservation after having been bitten by a venomous viper recorded in Acts 28verses3verses5 compare with Mark 16verses17-18. Two years expire and as no case is brought against Paul he is released to continue his preaching. All of these things occur before the fire in Rome and the intense persecution which came upon believers by the Emperor Nero from that time onwards. The 31st verses of Acts 28 is an epitome of the entire bookverses "Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him."

Today Tom referred to The Book of Hosea with Study Notes: A Preacher's Guide to the Book of Hosea. Here's a link to download a pdf of this book. To sign up for the GearTalk Bible Reading Plan go here. For additional resources connected to biblical theology go to handstotheplow.org and jasonderouchie.com. To support the work of Hands to the Plow, visit handstotheplow.org.

All throughout both the Old and New Testaments, we see a clear pattern of people in Scripture turning to prayer and fasting in times of uncertainty, brokenness, and need. And in those examples, we find that prayer and fasting are not just religious obligations but natural responses to desperation. And we find that moments of crisis can lead to spiritual renewal when approached with humility and dependence on God. And we find that whether you and I are facing the unknown road ahead or the ruins of life, the invitation is to pray and fast, recognizing that our deepest hunger can only be satisfied by God. SPEAKERS: Jay Kim (Saratoga), video (South Hills) Bible Passage(s): Ezra 8:21,23, Nehemiah 1:3-4

What does faithfulness look like in real life? Akash Ahuja (Lexington Director of High School Ministry) takes us from Acadia to the Grand Canyon—showing how a river's slow, steady flow carved something breathtaking—and how the Spirit forms the fruit of faithfulness in us the same way. We trace God's faithfulness through Scripture (Ex 34:6–7), see Jesus finish the work the Father gave Him (John 17; 19:30), explore the Bible's two meanings of “faithfulness” (trustworthy and full of trust), and watch Jesus restore Peter to faithful service. Practical next steps land close to home: 1-minute prayers, consistent serving, small gifts—ordinary acts that add up over time. Speaker: Akash Ahuja, Lexington Director of High School Ministry Series: Cultivate — The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) Key Texts: Galatians 5:22–23; Exodus 34:6–7; Hosea 6:3; John 17:1–5; John 21 Artwork Mentioned: Under His Wings by Laura Wallace (Psalm 57:1)

Ezra 7 tells of the personal qualities of Ezra the priest - verse 6 skilled in the Law of Moses that Yahweh had given Israel; verses 9-10 Ezra had set his heart to study God's Law and therefore the good hand of God was upon him (what a lesson to us); and Ezra graciously thanked the Almighty for His loving kindness ('chesed') shown to His people Israel (verse 27). The chapter tells of king Darius' generosity and material support for the work of building the temple; and the king's command to the Governors on the east of Jordan to materially support the project. King Darius warns of the serious consequences which would come to any who would not support the building.Hosea 8 tells that because Israel had failed to obey God's laws they would experience great punishment - "they had sown the wind, they would reap the whirlwind" - the teaching of the Bible is that whatever we do produces consequences and that we are responsible for our actions (read aloud Galatians 6verses7-10 pause and ponder). The idolatry of Israel would incur God's judging them by using another idolatrous nation. Rather than turning to God for help Israel hires foreign armies. This causes them greater problems. For the kingdom of Israel in the north the time of destruction was upon them.Acts 27 tells of Paul's journey to Rome for his case to be heard by the Emperor Nero. The ship sets sail in fine weather with only Luke accompanying the Apostle Paul on his voyage. The ship soon finds sailing difficult because of the opposing winds. When the ship reaches Crete it has now become too dangerous for sailing; and Paul advises that they should stay in Crete until the winter passes. But the owner of the ship was determined to reach Rome as quickly as possible to receive his profit. The Roman Centurion decides to accept the ship owners' position and to continue on their journey. The ship is now beset with a hurricane-like wind called Euroclydon. The crew takes many measures to try to save the ship and its precious cargo. Nothing works and their lives are entirely at the mercy of this horrible storm. All on board the ship become depressed and for fourteen days eat nothing. Then Paul, after receiving a vision from an angel of God, takes control and encourages everyone. The Apostle gives thanks to God and they all eat. After that the ship is lightened by throwing overboard the wheat from the hold. There are 276 people on the ship. Some of the sailors pretend to let down anchors under the ship, but their intentions are to flee in the lifeboats. Paul says to the Roman Centurion (Julius) that unless the sailors stay on the ship all lives are in danger. Julius stops the sailors from escaping. When daylight comes the crew run the ship into a creek which sees the rough sea smash the ship to pieces. All escape safely to shore - some swimming and others being carried by the current on planks of wood from the broken ship. Acts 27verses31 makes the nice point that unless we abide or remain in the Christ ship we cannot be savedverses compare John 15 our fruitfulness and salvation is dependent on us abiding in the Vine of God - His precious Son our Lord Jesus Christ.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Biblically, the sin of not resting is seen as disobedience to God's rhythm of creation and a rejection of trust in His provision. It leads to spiritual dryness, societal injustice, and even exile.   Here's how Scripture frames this:  

In week three of the Hosea series, Pastor Curt Taylor spoke about God's restoring love, a love that pursues us even when we've wandered far away. Drawing from the story of Hosea, he reminded us that God's heart is not to condemn but to restore His people to wholeness and relationship with Him. Through repentance and trust, we find the renewal and grace that only God can offer. Pastor Taylor encouraged us to open our hearts to that restoration and allow God to reshape our lives from the inside out. It was a powerful reminder that no amount of brokenness can stand against the restoring love of God.

Refresh!A Fresh Perspective: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25Sowing and reaping in the spiritual realm: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (Galatian 6:7-10, NIV)Acts of the Flesh vs. Fruit of the Spirit The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:19-23, NIV)Watch out! Possible seed contamination!“I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” (Romans 7:15, NIV) The Sower influences the size of the crop but God gives the growth and ultimately controls the size of the crop.Good news: “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” (2 Corinthians 9:6, NIV)Bad news: “They sow to the wind and reap the whirlwind,” (Hosea 8:7, NIV)Where do I start? Visit the tables in the Great Room to learn more about current opportunities.Visit gatewayfranklin.com to learn about and sign up for information about upcoming events.Contact Georgetta at georgetta@gatewayfranklin.com. THE EXCEPTION:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, (Romans 3:23, NIV)23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23, NIV) "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NIV)

Ezra 5 tells of the work of building the house of God recommencing with the prophets of Yahweh - Haggai and Zechariah - supporting and encouraging the work. Still the attempts to frustrate the building came from Tatnai, the Governor on the other side of the river (the Jordan). The faithful Jews continued building while Tatnai's letter was sent to Darius (the Persian king). The Jews faithfully answered as to why their realm had been overturned and to their obedience to the God of heaven and the decree that came from king Cyrus to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. The Jews suggested that search be made in the Chronicles of the kings of Persia to prove their claim. Chapter 6 tells us that the search was made in the house of the scrolls in Ecbatana proving the accuracy of the Jews' claim. A letter came from king Darius asking Tatnai and his people to materially support the building of the temple. Verses 15-18 report the completion and dedication of the house of God. From verses 19-22 we read of the great joy as the new kingdom of Judah kept the Passover. Let us be daily builders of God's House and let those labours bring joy to our hearts.Chapter 7 of Hosea contains some very graphic Hebrew poetry. From the rulers of the nation to the common people they were so intent on sexual depravity that they are described by the figure of a baker with an overheated oven. They had no shame for what they were doing. Another of the figures sees them as a dove that cannot make up her mind on whom to dote - Egypt, or Assyria. God wanted it otherwise and even when judgment was brought on them they didn't repent. A soft and penitent heart is always to be found among the LORD's children.In Acts 25 we are told that, when Festus was determined to send Paul to Jerusalem, the Apostle had no alternative but to make his appeal to Caesar. After a short period of time Festus conducted another hearing of Paul's matters. Festus once again sought the favour of the Jews and at this time Paul announced that he would exercise his right as a Roman Citizen to be judged by Caesar. Herod Agrippa and his wife Bernice were visiting Caesarea and at this time Festus requested they hear Paul's case for Festus was struggling with the wording of the charge against Paul. Festus explained to Agrippa that to him there was no capital crime, but simply matters concerning Jewish law. With great pomp and ceremony Agrippa, Bernice and all the other dignitaries entered the judgment hall. Festus was seeking Agrippa's opinion on the nature of the charge to appear on the letter to be sent to Caesar. Chapter 26 records Paul's defence and appeal to Agrippa to embrace the Christian cause. Paul tells his audience of his fervour for the Jewish way and his concerted opposition to Christianity. But when he was confronted by the risen Lord Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus everything changed. He told the audience of his great commission and then knowing king Agrippa to be a man who read the prophets he appealed to the king to adopt the Christian belief. Festus, being embarrassed by the situation, attempted to finish the hearing immediately by declaring Paul to be mad due to his great learning. Paul was not to be silenced so quickly and continued to ask Agrippa whether he believed the prophets. He stated plainly I know you believe them king Agrippa. At this point king Agrippa and all the dignitaries rose and left with the king stating Paul's innocence. Let us remember that we are bondslaves to our Lord Jesus Christ and as his prisoners let our testimony burn before all to whom we witness.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/2Kings21;Hebrews3;Psalm139;Hosea14 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Acts 23 tells of Paul before the Sanhedrin. In a similar way to when our Lord Jesus Christ appears before them, the hearing commences with an illegality from the High Priest, Ananias. That corrupt priest commands that the Apostle be smitten on the cheek - this is contrary to the Law of Moses. Paul reacts to this violation by saying that God would in His time smite the high priest. For this answer Paul is rebuked by those of the Council. The Apostle says he had not recognised the high priest. This seems unusual as in Acts 9 this high priest had given letters to Paul authorising the persecution at Damascus. Some such as Ramsay have suggested Paul's eyesight was poor, due to malaria possibly contracted on his first missionary journey. Others suggest that this is in fact a rebuttal of the high priest's right to hold that office. Paul undoubtedly had poor eyesight as many of his letters attest e.g. Galatians 6verses11. The Apostle sees the impossibility of him getting a fair trial and so he divides the Council on the question of the teaching of the Scriptures regarding the raising of the dead. Verse 8 tells us of the difference in teaching between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Verse 10 informs us that the disagreement became violent. Paul is once again rescued. Paul's sister's son learns of a plot to assassinate Paul and informs the chief captain. The chief captain immediately responds by sending Paul to Felix the Roman Governor in Caesarea with a heavily armed escort - a journey of two days. This heavily armed company carry with them a letter explaining why the Chief Captain has taken these measures. Chapter 24 speaks of Paul before Felix and of the flattering orator the Jews hired to prosecute the Apostle. The Apostle defends each charge magnificently. Paul points out that he came to Jerusalem for worship and to bring charitable gifts for his nation. The aged Apostle also is a Pharisee. The Pharisaic teachings were an allowable teaching among the Jews. Felix finds himself in a difficult place having some understanding of the teachings of the Way (an early name for believers in Christ Jesus). Felix detains Paul not wanting to fall out of favour with the Jews. Paul is provided with protection and liberty. Having heard of Paul's bringing charity to his fellow Jews Felix hopes to secure a bribe. Felix becomes very disturbed knowing that since he understands the reality of the coming judgment and that he would be subject to the judgment of God. Felix's life makes it certain that he will be rejected when that judgment comes. After two years Rome replaces Governor Felix with Governor Festus. Festus maintains Paul's imprisonment to please the Jews.

TOPIC Four Forces That Oppose the Dominion Mandate PREACHER Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Okronipa SCRIPTURES Genesis 2:17 Genesis 3:1–6 Revelation 12:9 Ephesians 6:12–14 Hosea 4:6 John 1:14–18 2 Corinthians 4:6 1 Corinthians 15:31 KEY POINTS Introduction From the beginning, God gave man dominion—the authority to rule and represent Him on earth. However, this dominion faces strong opposition from spiritual, mental, and fleshly forces that seek to weaken man's authority. To maintain dominion, the believer must identify and overcome these opposing forces through truth, knowledge, and the Spirit. 1. Satan and the Forces of Darkness

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/2Kings20;Hebrews2;Psalms137–138;Hosea13 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Amos and Hosea (Episode 1/1) by The Lumen Christi Institute

After 70 years of exile in Babylon Cyrus, the king of Persia, who had recently conquered the city of Babylon, decreed that the exiled Jews be allowed to return to Judea and to rebuild Jerusalem. The decree was made in BC 537. Read it aloud in verses 2-4 of Ezra 1. Two thousand five hundred and twenty years later the Embassy of the USA is relocated from Tel Aviv of Jerusalem and a coin is minted showing Cyrus on one side and the then American president, Donald Trump. The uncirculated coin - meaning the coin is not legal tender - is inscribed with the words from Ezra 1verses2. The gold and silver vessels of the former temple at Jerusalem which had been stored in the treasure house in Babylon are returned to the new temple that is to be built in Jerusalem. Chapter 2 of Ezra gives us an inventory of the vessels and speaks the faithful remnant who with Ezra the scribe. King Cyrus makes a generous donation towards the cost of rebuilding Jerusalem. The vessels represent the saintsverses Isaiah 22verses24; 2 Timothy 2verses20-21.Hosea 5 deals with the judgment to come upon faithless Israel and Judah. Yahweh would, like a lion, tear His people because of their rebellious ways firstly through the Assyrian lion who would carry Israel captive; and then Judah would experience a similar fate 120 years later at the hands of the Babylonians.Acts 21 records Paul's journey to Jerusalem. The Apostle comforts and encourages many groups of disciples as he heads to Jerusalem. An old prophet, named Agabus, attempts to persuade Paul to go no further. Paul will not, like his lord, be dissuaded from going. The first thing Paul does on his arrival is to see James who advises him of the best course of action to be taken so as to avoid trouble. The Apostle is advised to complete his Nazarite vow and to cover the expenses of four other brothers who are completing their vows. James reiterates to Paul that the only binding requirements on Gentile believers are the keeping of the four matters agreed upon at the Jerusalem Conference. However, Paul cannot peacefully complete his vow since he is arrested in the temple by Asian Jews. These hostile Jews mistakenly believe that Paul has profaned the temple by bringing Trophimus, a Gentile Ephesian into the temple. A Tribune from the Roman fort of Antonia rescues Paul and commands that he be chained. The crowd clamours for the Apostle's blood, just as they had for his Lord's some three and a half decades earlier. In the barracks Paul speaks with the Tribune dismissing many of the fanciful thoughts as to who Paul might be. Paul asks for permission to address the crowd from the steps of the fort and his speech is recorded in chapter 22. Paul gives his defence in Hebrew and initially the crowd pays close attention. The aged Apostle describes his own education in the Pharisaic tradition under Gamaliel and his zeal for the Law. After this he tells of his experiences on the Damascus road, his conversion to a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul says that he is warned by Jesus his Lord to immediately leave Jerusalem since his testimony will not be accepted. The Jews attentively listen until Paul speaks of being sent to the Gentiles. Once again uproar follows and the Tribune commands that Paul be scourged that the Tribune might understand why the multitude were so angry with the Apostle. Paul, on this occasion, uses his Roman citizenship to avoid a pointless flogging. The chapter concludes with the Tribune intending to have Paul examined by the Jewish Sanhedrin on the next day.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

“Did papal documents teach Protestants go to hell?” This episode delves into the complexities of Vatican teachings and their implications for Protestant believers. Additionally, we explore the latest Vatican document and its significance, as well as the biblical meaning of Israel in Hosea 3:4-5, providing a comprehensive look at these important topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:45 – Did papal documents like Unam Sanctam teach holy protestant men go to hell? 16:43 – Can you clarify what the new Vatican document says? 33:38 – What does the bible mean when it mentions Israel in Hosea 3:4-5

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/2Kings19;Hebrews1;Psalms135–136;Hosea12 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

2 Chronicles 36 tells of the rapid disintegration of Judah after the death of Josiah. Jehoahaz, the son of Josiah becomes king at the age of 23 and rules for 3 months until he is deposed and taken to Egypt by Pharaoh Neco. Pharaoh Neco takes Jehoiakim (Jehoahaz's brother) and makes him king and changes his name to Eliakim. Eliakim is 25 years old when he becomes king and he reigns for 11 evil years practising wickedness in defiance of his God. The year is now about BC 607 and Nebuchadnezzar has just come to the throne of Babylon. The Babylonian king makes an incursion into Judah taking Jerusalem and carrying away many captives and several of Judah's princes including Daniel and his three friends. Additionally, the Chaldeans take away the vessels of the temple. Nebuchadnezzar has three further incursions into Judah until the final overthrow of Jerusalem in BC 587. Jehoiachin the son of Eliakim is placed upon the vassal throne. He is 18 years of age and rules for only three months and ten days until he, too, is taken to Babylon with the most precious vessels from the temple. And on this occasion another evil king is deposed. Zedekiah, the brother of Jehoahaz ascends the throne at the age of 21 and rules for 11 evil years. This last king of Judah is a vacillating, covenant breaking king who earns the wrath of Nebuchadnezzar. Ezekiel 21verses25-27 spoke of this final overthrowing of Judah's kingdom and saying that the throne would remain vacant until "he comes whose right it is" - because he is God's Son and David's righteous heir - and God will then establish Christ's throne forever. The book concludes with two significant events - one negative, one positive - the burning and destruction of Jerusalem; and the decree of Cyrus in BC 537 that sees the return of the exiles.Acts 20 records that after the riot Paul calls for and encourages the ecclesia before departing into Macedonian. Six brethren accompany him as the representatives of their ecclesias. These delegates are carrying relief funds for the poor believers in Judea who are suffering the effects of a great famine. The chapter says Paul stops at Miletus and asks the elders of Ephesus join him there where Paul gives the ecclesia final encouraging words and warning them of dangers which would arise after his demise. The Apostle gives a very long talk, and because of the poor ventilation in the room a young man named Eutychus falls asleep in the window and he falls three storeys to the ground and is pronounced dead.Paul miraculously raises Eutychus and continues preaching until sunrise. Paul's intentions of departing into Macedonia appear not to have been achieved and he is now hurrying to Jerusalem to arrive before the feast of Pentecost. The Apostle's speech to the Ephesian elders is recorded from verses 18-35. In summary he tells them of their solemn responsibilities, warning them of a decline due to those who would seek leadership for their own advantage. On the positive side, Paul, in verse 32, commends them to God and the Word of His grace - read aloud, pause and ponder. The Apostle also quotes some unrecorded words of our Lord Jesus Christ - "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (v35). The assembled group pray together on the beach and then an old prophet warns Paul of what would comeupon him from the time of his arriving in Jerusalem. They greatly sorrow that they will see his face no more, but they respect Paul's resolute courage.

Guest Minister:  Lola Salvador   Daily Study: Lola draws on her upcoming Christian fiction novel, exploring the real and often painful journey of forgiveness within marriage. Through the story of a celebrated athlete whose private heartbreak becomes painfully public, we're invited to confront the deeper question every couple must face: How do you forgive when trust has been broken? Grounded in Scripture and word study, this message reveals the biblical depth of forgiveness—not just as letting go of offense, but as extending grace that mirrors God's own mercy. It's a redemptive reflection on love, healing, and the transforming presence of Jesus, who meets us in our brokenness and makes restoration possible. Scriptures: Matthew 6:14-15 (ESV) - Establishes forgiveness as a divine command tied to spiritual freedom. Colossians 3:13 (NIV) - Defines forgiveness as imitation of God's mercy, not emotion. Hosea 3:1 (NIV) - A vivid image of covenant love that endures betrayal Psalm 34:18 (NLT) - Brings tenderness and comfort   Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com                    

HUH? | Hosea by Dresden.Church

Thoughts on the Bible Readings November 6th (2 Chronicles 35; Hosea 3; Acts 18, 19)2 Chronicles 35 speaks of the Passover kept by Josiah - it was without equal so far as the observance required by the Law (see verse 18). Sadly, however, the people's hearts were not in what was done (this contrasts with Hezekiah's great Passover). After this king Josiah unwisely provokes a battle with Pharaoh Neco Egypt's king). Josiah is warned not to involve himself. Judah's young king rejects the advice and was slain in battle. Some scholars say that the Lamentations of Jeremiah are written as a eulogy for this wonderful king. Isaiah also adds his thoughts about the death of Josiah in chapter 57verses1-2.In Hosea 3 we have the story of Hosea redeeming his wife and separating her until she was purified from her harlotry. The lesson of course is parabolic of Yahweh's dealings with His people Israel, who will finally seek Him and be restored to fellowship with the Eternal - read aloud verse 5 and pause and ponder.

The Crisis of Biblical Illiteracy Series: Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins November 6, 2025 Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins Show Summary Dave Jenkins addresses one of the most pressing issues in the church today, biblical illiteracy. He defines what it is, explains why it is dangerous for discipleship and witness, and gives practical steps to grow in knowing, understanding, and obeying God's Word. Key Scriptures: Hosea 4:6; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Ephesians 4:14; James 1:22; Psalm 119:105 Topics: Definition, dangers, and practical steps to avoid biblical illiteracy Speaker: Dave Jenkins Series site: servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-word Listen Watch Episode Outline Introduction Many of us own Bibles, yet do we know what is in them and live it out? Hosea 4:6 warns that God's people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Neglecting Scripture leaves us open to deception, discouragement, and shallow faith. 1. Defining Biblical Illiteracy It is not the absence of a Bible, it is the absence of knowing, understanding, and applying it. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 teaches that all Scripture is God breathed and equips us for every good work. 2. The Dangers of Biblical Illiteracy Deception: Without truth we are tossed by every wind of doctrine (Ephesians 4:14). Weak Discipleship: Faith reduces to feelings and trends. Poor Witness: A church that does not know Scripture loses its salt and light. Judges 2:10 shows how a generation can rise that does not know the Lord. 3. How We Can Avoid It Read Scripture regularly, whole books and chapters for the big picture. Study wisely, use tools but start with the text. Memorize and meditate, let the word of Christ dwell richly (Colossians 3:16). Obey what you read, be doers not hearers only (James 1:22). Stay rooted in a sound local church under faithful preaching and community. Application and Call to Action Shape your worldview from Scripture rather than social media or cultural voices. Start small. Read a chapter a day in the Gospel of John, pray, take notes, and ask questions. Closing Biblical illiteracy is dangerous but not inevitable. God's Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). Let us know the Bible, love it, and live it out for the glory of Christ and the good of His church. Resources and Next Steps For more from Anchored in the Word please visit our page at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube. Share this episode with a friend who wants to grow in biblical literacy. .sog-episode h1 { font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 2rem; margin-bottom: .25rem; } .sog-episode h2 { font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 1.5rem; margin-top: 1.75rem; } .sog-episode h3 { margin-top: 1rem; } .sog-episode figure { margin: 0 0 1rem 0; } .sog-episode img { border-radius: 12px; display: block; width: 100%; height: auto; } .player-wrap iframe { border-radius: 12px; } .sog-episode ul, .sog-episode ol { padding-left: 1.25rem; }

Join Pastor Louis and Pastor Brett as we discuss Hosea 11!

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/2Kings17;Titus3;Psalms129–131;Hosea10 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Hello Friends! I love to hear from you! Please send me a text message by clicking on this link! Blessings to You!In this episode, Dr. Jori discusses with her listeners Yahweh's word to Hosea about how HE cared for Israel even though they were at times unfaithful. Scripture References: Hosea 11:4; Hebrews 1:1-2; Hosea 1:1-11; Isaiah 1:1; 1 John 1:9; Hosea 10:1-11:4 Scripture translation used is the Legacy Standard Bible.  “Scripture quotations taken from the (LSB®) Legacy Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2021 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org and 316publishing.comFIND DR. JORI ON OTHER PLATFORMS https://linktr.ee/drjorishafferCHECK OUT THE DWELL AUDIO BIBLE APP:Click this link for my unique referral code.  I use this frequently. Such a wonderful audio bible app. https://dwellapp.io/aff?ref=jorishafferBIBLE STUDY TOOLS DR. JORI USES:Note: These contain  Amazon affiliate links, meaning I get a commission, at no extra cost to you,  if you decide to make a purchase through my links.Here is a link to some of my favorite bible study tools on Amazon:https://geni.us/cHtrfEMr. Pen Bible Journaling Kitshttps://lvnta.com/lv_PTrHSCogbRim4yhEDnhttps://lvnta.com/lv_mkaMOuGe6m4oHR88uqhttps://lvnta.com/lv_dgvsxOc99t663A628z  JOIN DR. JORI IN DEVOTIONAL JOURNALING IN 2025Check out this 9 min YouTube Video outlining her journaling strategy! Don't Forget to subscribe to the YouTube Channel! https://youtu.be/lqe9TO7RSz4 BOOKS OF BIBLE COLOR CHARTI made this chart as a helpful tool for grouping the collections of books or letters  in the Holy Bible.  The colors in the different sections are the ones that I use in my journals.  Books of Bible Chart (color) (4).pdf - Google Drive    LOOKING TO RETAIN MORE OF WHAT YOUR PASTOR IS TEACHING?              CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S SERMON REFLECTION JOURNALS! Sermon Notes, Reflections and Applications Journal/Notebooks by Dr. Jori. Click the links below to be directed to amazon.com for purchase. Or search “Dr. Jori Shaffer” on Amazon to bring these up.  https://amzn.to/418LfRshttps://amzn.to/41862EyHere is a brief YouTube video that tells about the Journal/Notebooks as well:https://youtu.be/aXpQNYUEzds   Email: awordforthisday@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://awordforthisday.buzzsprout.com  Support the show

As Goes The King | Jeff White | October 26, 2025https://www.newcityep.com

Cloaking Idolatry as Faithfulness | Jeff White | November 2, 2025https://www.newcityep.com

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

Join us as we continue in Hosea, looking at the justice and mercy of God.

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/2Kings16;Titus2;Psalms126–128;Hosea9 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Today Tom referred to The Book of Hosea with Study Notes: A Preacher's Guide to the Book of Hosea. Here's a link to download a pdf of this book. He also quote from Jason DeRouchie's excellent What the Old Testament Authors Really Cared About. To sign up for the GearTalk Bible Reading Plan go here. For additional resources connected to biblical theology go to handstotheplow.org and jasonderouchie.com. To support the work of Hands to the Plow, visit handstotheplow.org.

Part 7 – Psalm of Ultimate Conquest (Psalm 2) Acts 4:25–26 I. The Rebellion Against Christ in the World (Psalm 2:1–3) A. It Is an Unrighteous Rebellion (v.1) Zephaniah 2:14 B. It Is an Unsuccessful Rebellion (v.1) Proverbs 21:30 C. It Is a Unanimous Rebellion (v.2) D. It Is an Unrestrained Rebellion (v.3) Luke 19:14; Hosea 11:4 1 John 5:3 II. The Rule of Christ in the World A. By Divine Appointing (vv.4–6) Proverbs 13:22; Revelation 6:17 B. By Divine Anointing (v.7) Hebrews 1:5, John 3:35–36; Psalm 2:8-9, 1 Timothy 6:15 III. The Recommendation of Christ to the World A. A Call to Teachableness (v.10) 2 Timothy 3:15 B. A Call to Usefulness (v.11) 1 Corinthians 7:30 — Serve the Lord faithfully with balance and reverence. C. A Call to Respectfulness (v.12) Psalm 2:6

All throughout both the Old and New Testaments, we see a clear pattern of people in Scripture turning to prayer and fasting in times of uncertainty, brokenness, and need. And in those examples, we find that prayer and fasting are not just religious obligations but natural responses to desperation. And we find that moments of crisis can lead to spiritual renewal when approached with humility and dependence on God. And we find that whether you and I are facing the unknown road ahead or the ruins of life, the invitation is to pray and fast, recognizing that our deepest hunger can only be satisfied by God. SPEAKERS: Jay Kim (Saratoga), video (South Hills) Bible Passage(s): Ezra 8:21,23, Nehemiah 1:3-4

 In this episode of Israel, why is the Middle East important Neil and I close the loop around a verse in Isaiah that deals with time. Then we move on to the shared promises of God and how God's promises to Israel become the churches promises as well. If you think the church is Israel, you should pay really close attention to this episode.

Continuing the series of ‘Minor Profits’ Hosea 1:1-9 Sunday November 2, 2025 – By Bob Cote

Habakkuk (embrace)According to the Smith's Bible Dictionary, Habakkuk means (embrace). This book would be the eighth, in order, of the Minor Prophets. Of the facts of the prophet's life, we have no certain information.One important aspect of the ancient Old Testament order of the Hebrew Bible is that the 12 prophetic works of Hosea through Malachi, sometimes referred to as the Minor Prophets, were designed as a single book called The Twelve. Habakkuk is the eighth book of The Twelve.Habakkuk lived in the final decades of Judah, Israel's southern kingdom. It was a time of injustice and idolatry, and he saw the rising threat of the Babylonian empire on the horizon. Unlike the other Hebrew prophets, Habakkuk doesn't accuse Israel or even speak to the people on Yahweh's behalf. Instead, all of his words are addressed to Yahweh. The book of Habakkuk tells us about Habakkuk's personal struggle to believe that Yahweh is good when there is so much tragedy and evil in the world.Habakkuk sees the darkness of the world as an invitation to have faith in Yahweh's promise to one day set things right. Living with such faith means trusting that Yahweh loves this world and works to one day eliminate all evil forever.In this chapter 2 we have an answer expected by the prophet (verse 1), and returned by the Spirit of Yahweh, to the complaints which the prophet made of the violence's and victories of the Chaldeans in the close of the prior chapter. The answer is,  I. That after Yahweh has served his own purposes by the prevailing power of the Chaldeans, has tried the faith and patience of his people, and distinguished between the hypocrites and the sincere among them, he will consider with the Chaldeans, will humble and bring down, not only that proud monarch Nebuchadnezzar, but that proud monarchy, for their boundless and greedy thirst after dominion and wealth, for which they themselves should at length be made a prey (verses 2-8). II. That not they only, but all other sinners like them, should perish under a divine woe.  1. Those that are jealous are greedy of wealth and honors (verses 9, 11).  2. Those that are harmful and oppressive, and raise estates by wrongful acts and the violent seizure of someone's property (verses 12-14).  3. Those that promote drunkenness that they may expose their neighbors' to shame (verses 15-17).  4. Those that worship idols (verses 18-20).1   Habakkuk resolutely waits for Yahweh's reply.watch = ‘mish-meh'-reth' watch-tower; referring to the place. set me = take my station. tower = fortress. watch = ‘tsaw-faw''look out; referring to the act = keep outlook. unto: = or, in.And watch to see what He will say unto me = Habakkuk has raised two important questions with Yahweh, yet he asked both with a proper attitude2   The Righteous Shall Live by His Faith verse 2-5; Woes against BabylonWrite the vision = which I am about to reveal to thee. Reference to the Old Testament (Deut. 27:8). ‘And thou shalt write upon the stones all the words of this law very plainly.'The true sense is, “so legible that whoever readeth it, may run to tell all whom he can the good news of the foe's coming doom, and Judah's deliverance.”“Run” is equivalent to announce the divine revelation (Jerm. 23:21); as everyone who becomes informed of a divine message is bound to run, that is, use all dispatch to make it known to others. Join me as we go Chapter by Chapter, Verse by Verse, Unraveling the Words of Yahweh!Have any questions? Feel free to email me; keitner2024@outlook.com

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/2Kings15;Titus1;Psalms123–125;Hosea8 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

In week two of the Hosea series at Cherry Hills Community Church, Pastor Curt Taylor shared a message about the tough love of God. He reminded the church that God's love is not just gentle and kind but also strong enough to confront sin and call us back when our hearts drift away. Using Hosea's story, Pastor Curt explained how we can look faithful on the outside yet be far from God on the inside. God's discipline, he said, is never meant to punish us out of anger but to bring us back into relationship with Him. The sermon invited everyone to see God's correction as an act of mercy from a Father who loves us too much to leave us where we are.

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.

#christianity #protestant #reformationThere is a solitary, humble, wooden structure on a windswept hill in rural New England. To open the door is to engage our minds, our hearts, and our imaginations. In this place, preachers and professors, past and present, come alive as they walk the aisle, ascend the pulpit stairs, and teach…from theology, from history, and from the Word of God. Welcome to the Saybrook Meetinghouse, an audio production of Saybrook Ministries. Saybrook Ministries' vision is to inspire and invigorate Christians with imaginative and intellectual content.Saybrook Ministries' mission is to provide didactic and devotional content from the Christian faith delivered to the saints; recovered and refined by the Protestant Reformation.Saybrook Ministries' prayer is that our content will be (1) to Christians convinced of Reformation truths: encouraging & powerful; (2) to Christians unconvinced of Reformation truths: educational & persuasive; (3) to non-Christians: engaging & prophetic.Saybrook Ministries' four foundational scriptures are: The words of the LORD are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times (Psalm 12:6). The people who know their God shall stand firm and take action. And the wise among the people shall make many understand (Daniel 11:32b-33a). And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD have not forsaken those who seek you (Psalm 9:10). Let us know; let us press on to know the Lord; his going out is sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth (Hosea 6:3).

     Scripture identifies two main forms of suffering that promote spiritual growth: corrective suffering, which restores the disobedient to fellowship, and perfective suffering, which refines the obedient toward greater maturity in Christ.      Corrective suffering arises from divine discipline when believers deviate from God's will and wander into disobedience. Such discipline is the measured response of a loving Father who seeks to restore His children to fellowship and fruitfulness. Israel's history provides a vivid backdrop to this principle. When the nation violated the Mosaic covenant, God responded with covenant curses designed to bring them back to Himself (Deut 28:15–68). Hosea depicts God hedging up Israel's path with thorns, frustrating her sinful pursuits so that she might return to Him (Hos 2:6–7). The author of Hebrews interprets such experiences as evidence of divine love: “For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and He scourges every son whom He receives” (Heb 12:6). According to Warren Wiersbe: "Chastening is the evidence of the Father's love. Satan wants us to believe that the difficulties of life are proof that God does not love us, but just the opposite is true. Sometimes God's chastening is seen in His rebukes from the Word or from circumstances. At other times He shows His love by punishing us with some physical suffering. Whatever the experience, we can be sure that His chastening hand is controlled by His loving heart. The Father does not want us to be pampered babies; He wants us to become mature adult sons and daughters who can be trusted with the responsibilities of life."[1]      Divine correction is not rejection but affirmation of sonship. Paul also recognized this principle at work in the Corinthian church, where some believers suffered weakness, sickness, and even premature death because of their irreverence and selfishness at the Lord's Table (1 Cor 11:30–32). Even kings were not exempt, as seen in Solomon's later years when God raised up adversaries against him after his heart was turned away to idols (1 Kgs 11:14, 23–25). Corrective suffering, therefore, functions as God's gracious intervention to arrest further decline and restore obedience. It is the shepherd's rod that redirects the straying sheep. Yet this discipline, though loving in design, can be resisted if the believer hardens his heart. Still, the intention remains clear: corrective suffering seeks to break the power of rebellion, humble the soul, and lead God's child back into the blessing of fellowship with Him.      Perfective suffering, by contrast, is not punitive but refining. It does not arise from disobedience but from God's sovereign intention to deepen faith, expand endurance, and produce spiritual maturity. When a believer is walking faithfully with the Lord, obeying His Word, God may still permit suffering in order to shape character, purify motives, and equip His servant for greater usefulness. Job exemplifies this reality. Though declared blameless and upright, Job was permitted to endure severe affliction under Satan's hand, yet through the ordeal he came to a fuller appreciation of God's majesty, confessing at the end, “I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; but now my eye sees You” (Job 42:5). Job's knowledge of God had grown because of what he'd learned through his sufferings. Paul's thorn in the flesh illustrates this same category. Though he prayed repeatedly for its removal, God left it in place to keep him humble and dependent, declaring, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9). Rather than crushing Paul, this suffering became the very platform by which God's strength was displayed through his weakness. Perfective suffering, then, is a divine gift, the furnace in which faith is purified and the believer is transformed into greater conformity to Christ.      While suffering in Scripture may be manifold, the categories of corrective and perfective suffering provide a helpful lens for understanding God's purposes. In both, His love and sovereignty are evident. Corrective suffering restores us when we stray, and perfective suffering strengthens us as we obey, with the unifying aim that we be conformed to the image of His Son (Rom 8:28–29). The Integration of Blessings, Trials, and Sufferings      In God's perfect plan, blessings, trials, and sufferings are divinely orchestrated means for advancing the believer toward spiritual maturity. Blessing manifests the very essence of God's goodness and generosity, cultivating gratitude, humility, and faithful stewardship in the believer's life (Jam 1:17; 1 Tim 6:17–18; 1 Pet 4:10). Trials test faith under pressure, refining endurance and strengthening spiritual stability (Jam 1:2–4; 1 Pet 1:6–7). Sufferings train the soul to be dependent upon divine grace (1 Pet 5:10; 2 Cor 12:9). Each is a facet of divine pedagogy: blessing manifests God's grace and entrusts resources for service (2 Cor 9:8); trials expose and perfect faith (Gen 22:1; Heb 11:17; Jam 1:2–4); and suffering cultivates humility, patience, and deeper fellowship with Christ (2 Cor 12:7-10; Phil 3:10). Together, they form an important part of God's training program for His children, proving that prosperity and adversity alike are instruments of His unfailing love. As Job testified in the midst of both abundance and loss, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21). Regardless of the circumstance, God is always at work conforming His sons and daughters to the likeness of Christ (Rom 8:28–29). What follows are biblical examples of suffering that helped advance believers to spiritual maturity (Jesus being the unique example). Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.   [1] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 324.

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/2Kings14;2Timothy4;Psalms120–122;Hosea7 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Join Matt and Jake on Sabbath Lounge as they reflect on what happened at their Sukkot celebration — sharing family gatherings, meaningful new traditions, and timeless lessons from the Feast of Tabernacles. Together they explore the Gospel story behind the feast, uncovering deep spiritual truths found in Scripture and how they connect to the joy and meaning of Sukkot today. Watch to discover how faith, family, and biblical truth come together in this season of rejoicing.     #SabbathLounge #Sukkot #FeastOfTabernacles #BiblicalFeasts #TheGospelStory #FaithAndFamily #TorahLife     Find us on iTunes, Spotify, TikTok, and Podbean.   Gen 33:17 And Jacob journeyed to Succoth, and built him an house, and made booths for his cattle: therefore the name of the place is called Succoth. Root Word Suka The KJV translates Strong's H5521 in the following manner: tabernacle (12x), booth (11x), pavilion (5x), cottage (1x), covert (1x), tents (1x). thicket, covert, booth, thicket, booth (rude or temporary shelter) Plural Suka (Succoth) סוכות (succoth) broken down by letter: Samech, The root סכך (sakak) or שכך (sakak) speaks of the creation of a hedge of sorts from interwoven strands of sorts. It commonly describes how prickly branches interweave to create a defensive hedge to hide behind and to look intently out from     Jeremiah 35:5-10 5 Then I set cups and pitchers filled with wine in front of the family of Rechab. I said to them, “Drink some wine.”6 They answered, “We don't drink wine, because our ancestor Jonadab, Rechab's son, gave us this order: ‘You and your descendants must never drink wine. 7 Never build any houses or plant any fields or vineyards. You must never have any of these things. You must always live in tents so that you may live for a long time in the land where you are staying.' 8 We, along with our wives, sons, and daughters, have obeyed our ancestor Jonadab, Rechab's son, in everything he ordered us to do. We have never drunk wine, 9 built houses to live in, or owned vineyards, pastures, or grainfields. 10 We live in tents, and we have obeyed everything our ancestor Jonadab ordered us to do. 11 But when King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invaded this land, we said, ‘Let's go to Jerusalem to escape the Babylonian and Aramean armies.' That's why we are living in Jerusalem.” -Sucathites- A hedged in people From the root סכך(sakak), to weave a protection. Job 1:10 Names of God Bible 10 Haven't you put a protective fence around him, his home, and everything he has. You have blessed everything he does. His cattle have spread out over the land. Hosea 2:8 Names of God Bible 8 “She doesn't believe that I gave her grain, new wine, and olive oil.   I gave her plenty of silver and gold,  but she used it to make statues of Baal.   Ruth 3 Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, said to her, “My daughter, shouldn't I try to look for a home that would be good for you? 2 Isn't Boaz, whose young women you've been working with, our relative? He will be separating the barley from its husks on the threshing floor[a] tonight. 3 Freshen up, put on some perfume, dress up, and go down to the threshing floor. Don't let him know that you're there until he's finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, notice the place where he is lying. Then uncover his feet, and lie down there. He will make it clear what you must do.” 5 Ruth answered her, “I will do whatever you say.”   שוכתים- Verb סוך(suk) or סיך (syk) describes the administration of oil — apparently in the expectation that this would protect the recipient, since this two-faced verb may also be used to mean to hedge Noun אסוך ('asuk) means [oil-] flask. Noun מסכה (mesuka) means hedge and is obviously similar to משכה (mesukka) meaning hedge Ohel-The KJV translates Strong's H168 in the following manner: tabernacle(s) (198x), tent(s) (141x), dwelling (2x), place(s) (2x), covering (1x), home (1x). tent, nomad's tent, and thus symbolic of wilderness life, transience, dwelling, home, habitation, the sacred tent of Jehovah (the tabernacle) סוּךְ Transliteration sûḵ -Pronunciation-sook to anoint, pour in anointing (Qal) to anoint to anoint oneself to anoint (another) to be poured (Hiphil) to anoint   https://jacksontrailfarm.com/2025/10/05/gospelstoryofthefeast/   At Sabbath Lounge we are dedicated to eating clean, keeping the Feast, Sabbath, following Torah, and leading as many people out of Babylon as possible.   Find more information below:   www.sabbathlounge.com    https://linktr.ee/Sabbathlounge  

“I did know thee in the wilderness, in the land of great drought.” — Hosea 13:5 Yes, Lord, Thou didst indeed know me in my fallen state, and Thou didst even then choose me for Thyself. When I was loathsome and self-abhorred, Thou didst receive me as Thy child, and Thou didst satisfy my craving […]

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/2Kings13;2Timothy3;Psalm119:145–176;Hosea5–6 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org