Podcasts about john burgess ross

By the end of our reading Moses will have spent 40 days on Mt. Sinai, and in that amount of time, the Israelites will have given up on Moses and on the Lord. Not long beforehand, the nation of Israel had promised that they would do all that the Lord had commanded, but in short order, they turn away from God. They instead turn to Aaron, who caves to the crowd's demands, making them a golden calf for them to worship. The Lord's anger burns against Israel, but Moses steps in as a redeemer for his people, interceding on their behalf. Before we get to that part of the narrative, we first return where we left off as God gives further instruction about worship in the tabernacle.Exodus 29 – 1:15 . Exodus 30 – 9:39 . Exodus 31 – 16:39 . Exodus 32 – 19:30 . Proverbs 6 – 27:52 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Some episodes are going to be action-packed and some are going to sound like you're reading an instruction book, and this episode may tend toward the latter of the two. It's important to remember, however, that the tabernacle is the place where the God of the universe, perfect in all His ways, matchless in power and authority, would meet with His people in a unique way. If it were up to you to build that, wouldn't you want detailed instructions? Right worship is important to God, and these detailed instructions gave the Israelites the freedom of knowing their worship was pleasing to God Almighty.Exodus 25 – 1:21 . Exodus 26 – 7:38 . Exodus 27 – 13:02 . Exodus 28 – 17:20 . Proverbs 5 – 24:42 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

On today's episode God begins to give very specific commands to the Israelite people on what it looks like to be fair, kind, and gracious to one another. The Lord's justice is severe for those who are selfish and outright rebellious, but gracious toward those who have no intention of causing harm. As you listen, it can be tempting to think that these are dry or irrelevant, but put yourself in the shoes/sandals of the original audience, whose livelihood wasn't based on cash or money, but on livestock, crops, and community with one another. Imagine yourself in each situation, & the text becomes much more interesting.Exodus 21 – 1:10 . Exodus 22 – 7:02 . Exodus 23 – 13:08 . Exodus 24 – 19:34 . Proverbs 4 – 23:02 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As the nation of Israel begins their journey into the wilderness, they find themselves without food and water, but rather than turn to the Lord, they complain to Moses. The Lord graciously provides for his people despite their grumbling, giving them, not only food and water, but a moral code by which they might live; this Decalogue, more commonly known as the Ten Commandments, allowed Israel to know how they could live a life that pleased the Lord. After witnessing the plagues on Egypt, the columns of cloud and fire, and the Red Sea's parting, it would have been no small thing for Israel to receive this sense of assurance.Exodus 16 – 1:12 . Exodus 17 – 7:46 . Exodus 18 – 11:02 . Exodus 19 – 15:54 . Exodus 20 – 20:30 . Proverbs 3 – 24:38 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Pharoah finally releases Israel from Egypt, but not before the Lord devastates the people of Egypt with a final plague that kills the firstborn of every family. The lord distinguishes between Israel and Egypt once again by giving them a new to be passed down from generation to generation as a testament to the power of God. By covering their doorways with the blood of a prescribed sacrifice, the people of Israel indicate that they are covered by the blood of another and the Lord passes over them. Throughout the history of Israel through both prose and poetry, God's people remind each other of the Lord's power and deliverance by observing the Passover. Later, Christ becomes the ultimate fulfillment, for he is both the sacrificial lamb that covers us and the firstborn who dies for the sins of the rebellious.Exodus 11 – 1:11 . Exodus 12 – 3:07 . Exodus 13 – 12:18 . Exodus 14 – 16:37 . Exodus 15 – 22:51 . Proverbs 2 – 27:57 . : :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today we begin to examine the ten plagues sent upon Egypt that testify to the power of the great I AM. It has been suggested that each plague is designed to show pharaoh, and all of Egypt along with him, that their gods are no match for the God of Israel, systematically robbing them of any power they claimed to have. When Pharaoh refuses to let Israel go into the wilderness to worship the Lord, God sends plagues of blood, frogs, gnats, boils, and darkness, but the king of Egypt will not back down. While he is bested by God Almighty over and over again, and His own people beg him to relent of his stubborn opposition, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened.Exodus 7 – 3:40 . Exodus 8 – 8:46 . Exodus 9 -14:46 . Exodus 10 – 21:21 . Proverbs 1 – 27:30 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today's reading is one of the shorter chapters in Luke's gospel, but it contains some Christ's most well-known parables. When the Pharisees and scribes complain about Jesus welcoming sinners, he tells the parable of the lost sheep, emphasizing the joy in heaven that follows repentance. Similarly, a woman who loses one valuable coin among ten will look for the coin diligently until she finds it. Finally, Jesus tells the parable of the lost son who returns home after squandering his inheritance, to the joy of his father and to the chagrin of his brother who remained faithful. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, Jacob completes his journey and meets Rachel. Jacob and his father-in-law Laban simply don't get along, and let's be honest, it's not because they are morally upstanding people with a difference of opinions, it's because they both practice deception to their own advantage. The daughters of Laban aren't too dissimilar, and their pettiness is made apparent in today's text. As a means of trying to gain flocks for himself, Jacob practices strange husbandry, proving not only that he has no idea how breeding works, but that it is by the grace of God, not by Jacob's skills, that his flocks increase.Genesis 29 - 1:01 . Genesis 30 - 7:29 . Genesis 31 - 13:54 . Psalm 18 - 17:03 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

This is the beginning of the book of Exodus, a pivotal story in the history of Israel. Throughout Scripture, Israel is often reminded that God is the one who led His people out of bondage and out of Egypt; it's a way to point to His power, His kindness, and His covenant faithfulness to fulfill His promises. We meet Moses, the lowly Hebrew who is rescued from destruction, raised in pharaoh's house, grows up only to kill another man, and flee town. When given instructions from the Lord, He cowers and makes excuses. This is not exactly the kind of guy we might choose to deliver a nation from oppression, but that's kind of the point. God regularly uses weak and sinful people to show His power and divine authority.Exodus 1 - 1:13 . Exodus 2 – 4:28 . Exodus 3 – 8:44 . Exodus 4 – 13:49 . Exodus 5 – 20:10 . Exodus 6 – 25:03 . Psalm 23 – 27:23 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Among today's teachings, Jesus says that one shouldn't prioritize those who can pay you back. Rather, do good to those in need who cannot pay you back. He goes on to tell a parable about one who gives a banquet and invites others to join him. Those who are on the guest list give excuses for why they are unable to attend, but in the end, they are all distracted by things they deem more necessary or more exciting. The one who holds the banquet then invites those who are needy, and they come to the table to feast. Finally, Jesus warns his disciples to count the cost of following him. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, Jacob the deceiver lives up to his name. With the help of his mother Rebekah, he goes to great lengths to disguise himself from his blind and aging father, tricking him into thinking that he is older brother Esau so that he might receive his father's blessing. Jacob and Rebekah come up with a way to trick Isaac yet again, and Isaac sends Jacob to another country to get a wife for himself, thereby escaping the wrath of Esau. Later, Jacob dreams of a stairway that reaches heaven with angels ascending and descending on it. The Lord promises to give the land to Jacob and his descendants, vowing to be with him and watch him wherever he goes.Genesis 26 - 1:00Genesis 27 - 6:33Genesis 28 - 16:16 :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We're covering the last three chapters of Mark today, which includes Mark's account of the crucifixion of Jesus. In our text, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, Judas betrays the Lord, Peter denies any relationship with Jesus, the chief priests and scribes hold court and convict Jesus of blasphemy, and send him to Pilate to be crucified. You'll notice that Jesus references Psalm 22 before he breathes his last, signifying not only his agony, but the fulfillment of that particular psalm, which we will read soon thereafter. When he dies, the curtain of the temple is miraculously torn in two, signifying the atoning work of the crucified Christ allowing unrestricted access to God the Father for those who trust in Him.Mark 14 – 1:12 . Mark 15 – 14:30 . Mark 16 – 21:33 . Psalm 22 – 24:57 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Jesus continues healing and teaching, focusing on fruitful labor for the Lord and the nature of the Sabbath. When Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath, the leader of the local synagogue scolds the crowd, but in the end his adversaries are humiliated by the teaching of Jesus. He tells His disciples to enter by the narrow way, because the door to God's household will soon be shut and those outside will be turned away regardless of their proximity to Jesus. Later, Jesus is warned that Herod is trying to kill him, but Jesus explains what the path ahead of him looks like with certainty. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When concluded our last reading, we found ourselves in the middle of an account concerning Abraham's servant and Isaac's future wife Rebekah. Abraham didn't want Isaac marrying a Canaanite woman, so he sent a messenger to find a wife for his son from among his own people. The servant recounts what happened in the last episode almost verbatim, so if you get a bit of déjà vu, don't worry. We'll see that the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree as we read about Isaac and Rebekah. Later, we'll be introduced to Isaac's sons: Esau & Jacob.Genesis 24:29-67 - 1:06 . Genesis 25 - 8:39 .Psalm 17 - 14:11 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The path of Jesus leads to Jerusalem, where many rightly assume that this teacher is the long awaited Son of David. However, they wrongly assume that Jesus will ascend to an earthly throne and subdue Israel's earthly enemies. The kingdom that Jesus will bring about, however, is one that extends beyond geographical bounds and instead lays claim to the hearts of the faithful. The chief priests, scribes, and Pharisees all take aim at Jesus with the intention of trapping Jesus in His words, but they are all unsuccessful against the infinite wit and wisdom of the son of God. Later, Jesus warns his disciples of a time yet to come when persecutions and natural catastrophes will escalate, signaling the return of the Christ, who comes in the clouds with great power and glory.Mark 11 – 1:06 . Mark 12 – 6:17 . Mark 13 – 14:48 . Psalm 21 – 20:53 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, Jesus encouraged his disciples to forget about storing up treasures in this life, but to store up treasures in heaven instead. With this in mind, he also teaches them to stop worrying about the future, for the future is in God's hands. He is able to provide for all of creation, and if he is able to do that, he is also able to give the kingdom to his people. Later, he encourages his disciples to remain ready for their master's return, faithfully serving the Lord at all times. Those who have been given much will have much required of them, and likewise those who have been entrusted with much, even more will be expected. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

God calls Abraham to do something that most of us would consider unthinkable, especially because we have the privilege of knowing God's character through the whole counsel of Scripture: He asks Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac as an offering to the Lord. Abraham trusts the Lord, and as the author of Hebrews later notes, “He considered that God was able even to raise him from the dead, from which, figuratively speaking, he did receive him back.” As you listen, consider the parallels between this sacrifice and the sacrifice of Christ, who did not have a ram to be His substitute, but who, instead, was the sacrifice Lamb who became our substitute.Genesis 22 - 1:01 .Genesis 23 - 5:36 .Genesis 24 - 8:52 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

While the disciples display great faith and devotion, they often don't comprehend the extent of Christ's power or his ability to provide all that they need. As a means of commenting on their clouded perception of reality, Jesus takes heals a blind man partially before fully opening his eyes (much like the disciples who did not fully comprehend, but whose eyes would later be opened to the truth). Jesus begins to make his way toward Jerusalem, and as he does so, he warns his disciples that he will soon be killed only to rise again from the dead. On the way, Jesus teaches his followers about devotion, faith, divorce, riches, and service.Mark 8 – 1:10 . Mark 9 – 8:11 . Mark 10 – 16:26 . Psalm 19 – 25:36 . Psalm 20 – 27:58 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In today's reading, Jesus accepts an invitation to a dinner party from a Pharisee and while they are having dinner he rebukes the Pharisee and his friends. As he does so, he uses the word “woe” to direct them to a posture of repentance and humility, rather than simply condemning them. Even so, he doesn't pull any punches as he skewers them for neglecting justice and love for God, for loving attention, and for being a source of defilement that goes unnoticed. He extends his rebukes to the experts in the law for burdening people with the law, for honoring prophets once they dead (rather than when they were alive and speaking), and for mishandling the Scriptures, which are the key to knowledge. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today's episode contains adult themes, parental discretion advised. In our last episode, the Lord visited Abraham by sending three messengers to his home. In today's episode, those angels are sent to Sodom and Gomorrah, because the wickedness of the people has grown so severe that it calls for complete annihilation. Lot shows the angels hospitality, but when the crowd presses against the door to assault his guests, his cowardice is revealed. The angels rescue Lot, but as we will soon see, sin continues to flourish in Lot's family. Later, a son is born to Abraham and is named, “Isaac,” which means, “He laughs.” :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The crowds continue to seek after Jesus as His miraculous healings and exorcisms gain notoriety across the land. It's clear that His power and authority over nature, over sickness, and over demons are a surprising and puzzling sight for those encounter these miracles. They incite fear in those who understand the gravity of His power and they spark hope in those who see His compassion. His teaching comes across as strange, yet authoritative, and His wisdom is unparalleled. The religious leaders grow increasingly angry with Jesus, as he continues to rebuke them openly. Jesus directed his ministry and teachings to the Jews first, then the Gentiles, but when a Gentile mother displays both faith and humility, Jesus commends her and heals her daughter.Mark 5 – 1:11 . Mark 6 – 7:54 . Mark 7 – 17:16 . Psalm 18 – 23:33 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We are almost halfway through the book of Luke, and Jesus and His disciples are on their way to Jerusalem which also means that Christ is making his way to the cross. On the way he teaches His disciples how to pray to God the Father, encouraging them by way of a parable to be persistent in prayer, trusting that the Lord will give them good gifts. Jesus' power cannot be denied, so if it can't be denied, those who are offended by him must come up with a way to denounce him. So when the crowds demand a sign and accuse him of using demonic power to cast out demons, he explains why Satan driving out Satan is a ridiculous premise. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, Abram told the Egyptians that Sarai was his sister in order save his own skin, and today things get even messier. Sarai suggests they try to help God's plan along by pulling a slave girl into Abram's bed. And Abram says, SURE. Yikes. It would be hard to argue that the Lord chose Abram because of his upstanding moral qualities, because the Bible highlights his flaws rather than covering them up. Abram doubts, wavers, makes poor decisions, but ultimately he responds to the Lord's instruction. The Lord makes promises, not because Abram deserves it or because His holy hands would be tied without Abram's cooperation; instead, through his work in Abram's life God will show the world his steadfast love and sovereign provision.Genesis 16 - 1:02 .Genesis 17 - 4:44 .Genesis 18 - 10:56 .Psalm 15 - 17:42 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The gospel of Mark is one of the three synoptic gospels, “Synoptic” basically means “seeing the same thing,” the other two of which are Matthew and Luke.  Historical evidence from early church fathers affirms that the apostle Peter is the one who passed these reports on to his attendant and writer, John Mark. Mark's gospel is the shortest, but the most action-packed, as he includes a number of accounts and moves quickly from one scene to the next. connecting his stories with phrases like “immediately,” “just then” and “as soon as.” We also get a sense for how hectic life must have been for Jesus, as crowds push in around him demanding more and more of His time.Mark 1 - 1:08 . Mark 2 - 8:01 . Mark 3 - 13:04 . Mark 4 - 18:13 . Psalm 17 - 24:59 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, Jesus sent 72 disciples ahead of him to the neighboring towns so that they might heal the sick and declare the coming kingdom of God, and today they return. He urges them to be encouraged, not in their power over the spirits, but that their names are written in heaven. On the road to Jerusalem, when asked to define what it means to love your neighbor, Jesus tells a parable that would have shocked his audience, as he makes a Samaritan, whom the Jews despised, the champion of his story. If that weren't enough, he portrays upright, religious Jews in the story as loving their neighbors inadequately. Finally, a busy and distracted Martha wants help from her sister, but receives a soft rebuke instead. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, we're introduced to Abram, a man who is called by God to leave his family and his country and venture to a land that God will show him. While we know Abram lineage, what we know of Abram's character only begins after the Lord calls him to go. We learn that Abram is a man capable of great faith and great cowardice, as puts his wife in a compromising situation in order to save his own skin. Later, the Lord confirms his covenant with Abram by way of an ancient practice that would have been understood by the culture. By passing between the split carcasses of a series of animals, the one committing to covenant is basically saying, “May I become like this if I don't fulfill my vow.”Genesis 12 - 1:02 .Genesis 13 - 4:34 .Genesis 14 - 8:26 .Genesis 15 - 13:07 .Psalm 14 - 17:23 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The life of Jacob, who is now known as Israel, comes to close as he takes his last breath in Egypt. This is the same Jacob who deceived his father Isaac in order to receive the blessing of the firstborn. Not only does he bless Joseph's sons, he elevates them and makes them a part of his family's inheritance. He continues on with words of prophecy and blessing for the men who would be the representative heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. After Jacob takes his final breath, Joseph's brothers fear that he will seek vengeance, but Joseph doesn't hold a grudge. Instead of seeking vengeance or extracting payment, he brings God's grace, provision, and sovereign orchestration to mind, and ensures them that he will care for their families.Genesis 47 – 2:34 . Genesis 48 – 9:43 . Genesis 49 – 14:06 . Genesis 50 – 19:35 . Psalm 16 – 24:32 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Our passage begins with Christ's second prediction of his death as he tells his disciples that he will be killed by the religious authorities but will be raised from the dead on the third day. After the disciples argue about who is the greatest and complain about someone driving out demons in the name of Jesus, the Messiah's journey turns toward Jerusalem where He will face the agony of the cross, but he has much to say and to teach before that hour arrives. Later, Jesus sends 72 disciples ahead of him to the neighboring towns so that they might heal the sick and declare the coming kingdom of God. If you're reading along, don't forget that we're beginning in the second half of verse 43. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Job has justified himself in his own sight, repeating again and again that God has been unjust, bemoaning his fate and complaining that a man should be able to take God to court. In today's episode, God puts Job in his place by asking him a series of questions. This inquisition is designed to help Job see how finite, weak, and limited he is, while painting a vibrant picture of God's power and authority. Job can't even direct a wild animal to work for him, let alone conceptualize, create, and oversee the entirety of creation. In the end, Job relents and his relationship with God is restored to one of fruitful abundance.Job 39 - 1:10 .Job 40 - 4:45 .Job 41 - 7:50 .Job 42 - 12:35 .Psalm 13 - 16:17 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

On our last episode we saw how the Lord orchestrated Joseph's life to save the lives of many in the face of a coming famine. When his brothers show up to ask for food, they don't recognize Joseph, but Joseph recognizes them. He declares them to be spies, and after a series questions, he sends them away and demands that they bring their younger brother back to Egypt to see if they are telling the truth. When their father, Jacob, who is also called Israel, finds out what is required he refuses to part with the son whom he believes to be the last surviving child of his beloved wife Rachel. After a series of negotiations, Israel relents and his sons return to Egypt with Benjamin to get more food.Genesis 42 – 1:13 . Genesis 43 – 8:15 . Genesis 44 – 14:15 . Genesis 45 – 19:28 . Genesis 46:1-27 – 24:30 . Psalm 15 – 28:21 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Jesus grants his 12 apostles power and authority over demons and diseases and send them out with the good news of his coming kingdom. When the 12 return, he welcomes the crowds and tells the disciples to give them something to eat. They don't know what to do, so Jesus feeds five thousand people with only five loaves of bread and two fish. Later, Jesus tells the disciples that he will be killed by the religious authorities but will be raised from the dead on the third day. Peter, James, and John get a glimpse of Christ's glory as they spend time with him on a nearby mountain, but they are instructed to tell no one at that time. On a technical note, we'll end halfway through verse 43 as delineated in the CSB translation. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The young man named Elihu continues to present a case against Job and his friends, saying that the Lord doesn't listen to empty cries or baseless claims to injustice. Moreover, the God who created all things is accountable to no one; in other words, He doesn't owe anything to anyone– therefore nobody can say that He is unfair or unjust. The God who made all things also sees all things, knows all things, and will rightly judge all things. Man, with his limitations, cannot know or understand these things and therefore cannot claim to be a better authority than a sovereign God. As we reach chapter 38, we begin to hear a rebuke from God Himself.Job 35 - 1:01 . Job 36 - 2:56 . Job 37 - 6:56 . Job 38 - 11:05 . Psalm 11 - 15:56 . Psalm 12 - 17:02 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When Joseph is sold into slavery it seems that he has lost it all, except that Joseph has not lost what is most important: he hasn't lost God's divine and unmerited favor. Through Joseph, God divinely orchestrates the salvation of His people, sustaining the entire country of Egypt as well as the surrounding nations during a period of severe drought. His circumstances seem devastating in the short term, but once God's plan becomes clear, the Scriptures say that Joseph forgets his former trouble. As we're told in Romans 8:28 “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.”Genesis 38 – 1:22 . Genesis 39 – 7:22 . Genesis 40 – 11:16 . Genesis 41 – 14:55 . Psalm 13 – 25:03 . Psalm 14 – 26:02 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Jesus continues to exhibit signs and wonders, casting out demons, healing the sick, and raising the dead. In all of these things, Jesus clearly shows himself to be God in the flesh. In today's reading, a teacher from the synagogue named Jairus begs Jesus to come to his house and heal his 12 year old daughter. On the way there, a woman reaches out to touch the end of Christ's robe and is instantly healed. During that interaction, someone from Jairus's house arrives to announce that his daughter has died. In the midst of their grief and mourning, Jesus enters the house to perform a miracle that would have perplexed everyone who bore witness to it. ::: Christian Standard Bible translation. All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross. Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible facebook.com/commuterbible instagram.com/commuter_bible twitter.com/CommuterPod patreon.com/commuterbible admin@commuterbible.org

As Job concludes his remarks on sin and suffering, he maintains that he has been faithful to the Lord, abstaining from lust and from adultery, that he has cared for those in need, and has kept himself from the worship of false gods such as the worship of sun and moon. When Job concludes his words, a young man named Elihu, who has yet to speak, begins to voice his anger. He has respectfully waited until those older than him have had their say, but they have argued inadequately against Job and Job has spoken with a self-righteous posture.Job 31 - 1:01 . Job 32 - 6:50 . Job 33 - 9:43 . Job 34 - 13:36 . Psalm 10 - 18:22 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As we get to know the sons of Jacob, you'll start to realize that the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Having learned the art of deception from their father, they use it to their own advantage time and again. For example, they are rightly enraged after their sister is defiled by the local chief's son, but they use their anger as an excuse to deceive, then slaughter an entire city. Later, God officially gives Jacob the name of Israel, and directs his family to relocate to Bethel. There we learn more about Rachel's firstborn son Joseph, whom Israel favors above all his other sons. If that wasn't enough to draw the ire of his brothers, Joseph begins to have dreams where he is exalted above the rest of his family, and uses them as an occasion to gloat.Genesis 34 – 1:20 . Genesis 35 – 7:04 . Genesis 36 – 11:47 . Genesis 37 – 17:25 . Psalm 11 – 24:08 . Psalm 12 – 25:11 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, Jesus tells the parable of the sower to a large crowd, but only reveals its meaning to his disciples. Take note that it isn't whether or not the seed grows, but whether that seed  endures and produces fruit. Later, Jesus takes a nap during a storm, and only wakes up when the disciples panic and ask Him to do something about it. He gets up and stops the wind and the waves with a word. It brings to mind that Jesus is a better prophet than Jonah, who slept through the storm but could do nothing about the wind and the waves. But with with Jesus, a mere word will put it to an end. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

It won't be long before Job receives a proper rebuke from Elihu and then from God Himself, but until that time comes, Job continues to vent and express frustration with the situation he finds himself in. His friends have told him to repent of his evil, assuming that his sin is the cause of his current state. Meanwhile, Job continues to declare himself as pure, which is also untrue, but in his state of despair he doesn't see his self-righteous posture. Job thinks so highly of himself that he unabashedly accuses God of not executing justice properly, and in so doing, exalts himself above His Maker. At times he gives God his due with words, but in his heart, Job is sure that God has treated him unfairly.Job 27 - 1:01 . Job 28 - 3:47 . Job 29 – 8:04 . Job 30 – 11:04 . Psalm 9 - 15:34 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Jacob and his father-in-law Laban simply don't get along, and let's be honest, it's not because they are morally upstanding people with a difference of opinions, it's because they both practice deception to their own advantage. The daughters of Laban aren't too dissimilar, and their pettiness is made apparent in today's text. As a means of trying to gain flocks for himself, Jacob practices strange husbandry, proving not only that he has no idea how breeding works, but that it is by the grace of God, not by Jacob's skills, that his flocks increase. He and his father-in-law get into an argument and go their separate ways. Later, Jacob wrestles with a man who is also somehow a representative God, and the Lord renames him “Israel” b/c he has wrestled with both man and God and won.Genesis 30 – 1:12 . Genesis 31 – 8:15 . Genesis 32 – 18:34 . Genesis 33 – 23:39 . Psalm 10 – 26:56 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Jesus continues to exhibit his power over illness, demons, death, and over the created order. Those who witness his power, including the disciples who are with him daily, continue to be awestruck by what they see. Make no mistake: the people in Jesus' day were not simpletons who would simply believe anything. Like you and I, they knew that what Jesus was doing seemed impossible, and they all had trouble wrapping their minds around it. In addition to these miraculous feats, Jesus seems to prioritize faithful foreigners and repentant sinners above those who felt they were already righteous. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Job's friends are insulted that he would reject their wisdom, especially because they are drawing their conclusions from that which was commonly assumed by the culture and by their ancestors. Job wants to find comfort and consolation from his friends, but they continue to make a case against him. In an earlier speech, Job spoke of God's justice, but as he responds to his friend Zophar at the beginning of our reading, we can see that he struggles, like many of us, to understand why the wicked are allowed to flourish while the righteous perish.Job 21 - 1:01 . Job 22 - 5:39 . Job 23 - 9:55 . Job 24 - 12:01 . Job 25 - 15:51 . Job 26 - 16:32 . Psalm 8 - 18:24 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, Jacob the deceiver lives up to his name. With the help of his mother Rebekah, he goes to great lengths to disguise himself from his blind and aging father, tricking him into thinking that he is older brother Esau so that he might receive his father's blessing. Jacob and Rebekah come up with a way to trick Isaac yet again, and Isaac sends Jacob to another country to get a wife for himself, thereby escaping the wrath of Esau. Later, Jacob gets a taste of his own medicine when Laban tricks him into marrying his oldest daughter Leah when he had intended to marry Rachel.Genesis 26 – 1:09 . Genesis 27 – 7:19 . Genesis 28 – 16:19 . Genesis 29 – 20:06 . Psalm 9 – 26:12 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today's reading is full of the teachings of Jesus, and Luke begins with accounts highlighting the manner in which Jesus approached the Sabbath. While the Pharisees viewed it as a means of performance and merit, Jesus views it as an opportunity to please God through restoration, whether that be through rest, replenishment or miraculous healing. We'll also encounter the Beatitudes in today's text, followed by some parables, all of which point the hearer to humility of heart and dependence on God to sustain and provide. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The book of Job is a messy book because it deals with messy realities and messy relationships. In one sense, Job's friends are right in that God is just and that sinful people do not flourish in the long run. They are wrong, however, to say that the reverse is necessarily true, because disheartening circumstances aren't always caused by sin; sometimes they are simply the designs of God. He is our sovereign Maker and Sustainer, and He may do as He pleases. Job is an emotional wreck, and says some things he probably wouldn't say if were at peace, but he still holds onto what he knows about the Lord and clings to that truth as he navigates hardship. In today's reading, listen for some of the Messianic foreshadows that Job mentions in his longing and despair.Job 16 - 1:01 . Job 17 - 4:32 . Job 18 - 6:52 . Job 19 - 10:30 . Job 20 - 14:46 . Psalm 7 - 18:14 .   :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, God calls Abraham to do something that most of us would consider unthinkable, especially because we have the privilege of knowing God's character through the whole counsel of Scripture: He asks Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac as an offering to the Lord. Abraham trusts the Lord, and as the author of Hebrews later notes, “He considered that God was able even to raise him from the dead, from which, figuratively speaking, he did receive him back.” As you listen, consider the parallels between this sacrifice and the sacrifice of Christ, who did not have a ram to be His substitute, but who, instead, was the sacrifice Lamb who became our substitute.Genesis 22 – 1:10 . Genesis 23 – 5:57 . Genesis 24 – 9:04 . Genesis 25 – 21:23 . Psalm 8 – 26:41 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In today's episode, the Lord visits Abraham by sending three messengers to his home. He reveals that in a year's time he will give Abraham a son through his wife, Sarah. He also reveals that he is sending his messengers to Sodom and Gomorrah, because the wickedness of the people has grown so severe that it calls for complete annihilation. Before they are sent out, Abraham pleads with the Lord to spare the righteous and the Lord finally agrees that if even ten righteous people are found there, he will not destroy it. The angels rescue Lot, but as we will soon see, sin continues to flourish. Later, a son is born to Abraham and is named, “Isaac,” which means, “He laughs.”Genesis 18 – 1:15 . Genesis 19 – 7:42 . Genesis 20 – 14:43 . Genesis 21 – 18:58 . Psalm 6 – 24:14 . Psalm 7 – 25:35 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today we get to see the Lord's faithfulness to a sinful man who doubts, who wavers, who makes poor decisions, but who ultimately responds to the Lord's instruction. It would be hard to argue that the Lord chose Abram because of his upstanding moral qualities, however, as his flaws aren't covered up or diminished. Instead, in God's own kindness, He makes promises to Abram, promises that will last from one generation to the next, on and on through the ages. The Lord makes these promises, not because Abram deserves it or because His holy hands would be tied without Abram's cooperate; instead, through his work in Abram's life God will show the world his steadfast love and sovereign provision.Genesis 14 – 1:17 . Genesis 15 – 5:34 . Genesis 16 – 9:09 . Genesis 17 – 13:20 . Psalm 5 – 18:50 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After we wade through genealogies of Noah's sons, we encounter the tower of Babel, a monument to man's rebellion against God. Being made in the image of God, these men imitate their creator by creating, which is all well and good, except that they defy God's command to fill the earth and attempt to rob God of glory by making a name for themselves. God graciously uses language to scatter them so they can see the expansive majesty of His Creation rather than stare at the cute little tower they've made. In time, Abram is born, and God makes great promises as He calls Abram to follow His commands.Genesis 10 – 1:11 . Genesis 11 – 4:42 . Genesis 12 – 9:35 . Genesis 13 – 13:03 . Psalm 3 – 16:11 . Psalm 4 – 17:20 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Noah is often portrayed as a cartoonish old man surrounded by cute animals all smiling happily from their little boat; but the reality of the flood was far more grueling than the nursery murals suggest. Imagine what it would be like to survive an apocalyptic flood where almost everyone you know is destroyed and you're stuck in a crowded, floating menagerie. Noah is rightly credited as brave and faithful to the Lord, but the Bible doesn't allow us to think that the flood has solved the problem of sin. Even faithful Noah, who diligently constructed a massive vessel and survived destruction, was imperfect and flawed.Genesis 5 - 1:15 . Genesis 6 - 4:56 . Genesis 7 - 9:35 . Genesis 8 - 13:42 . Genesis 9 - 17:24 . Psalm 2 - 22:07 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

So much could be said about these first four chapters as Genesis 1-4 lays a foundation for the rest of Scripture. We learn about a God who creates all things out of His own volition in a way that is well-ordered and executed simply by proclamation. Special attention is given to the creation of mankind in God's own image and God's generous provision for man both before and after sin. Here, too, we see man's relationship with God fall from one of peace, unity, and harmony into one of disorder and division as man rejects God's good design and sins against His Maker.Genesis 1 - 1:12 . Genesis 2 - 7:13 . Genesis 3 - 12:10 . Genesis 4 - 18:11 . Psalm 1 - 23:20 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org