Podcasts about Korah

7/27/2025 Rev. Siyoung Jung   Jude 8-16   English Standard Version     8 Yet in like manner these people also, relying on their dreams, defile the flesh, reject authority, and blaspheme the glorious ones. 9 But when the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, was disputing about the body of Moses, he did not presume to pronounce a blasphemous judgment, but said, “The Lord rebuke you.” 10 But these people blaspheme all that they do not understand, and they are destroyed by all that they, like unreasoning animals, understand instinctively. 11 Woe to them! For they walked in the way of Cain and abandoned themselves for the sake of gain to Balaam's error and perished in Korah's rebellion. 12 These are hidden reefs[a] at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; 13 wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever. 14 It was also about these that Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of his holy ones, 15 to execute judgment on all and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” 16 These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.

Theme: The tenth commandment prohibits discontent. I. Exegesis of I Corinthians 10:10 A. Christ was with the Israelites in the Exodus and desert B. The people engaged in various sins C. They complained [onomatopoeia: murmur; egoggusan] 1. Numbers 16—Korah's rebellion 2. The Lord sent judgement, destroying them II. Examples of Discontent Exodus 15:23-26; 16:1-3; 17:1-7 Numbers 11:1-3; 11:4-6; 14:1-39; 16:41-43; 21:4-9 III. The Problem with Discontent A. Unbelief—not believing or trusting in providence B. Pride and overvaluing of ourselves C. Carnal heart full of improper self-love D. Improper attachment to these external things IV. The Danger of Discontent A. The removal of blessing—Numbers 14:22-23; 40-45 B. God's anger—Numbers 11:1; 11:10; 11:33; 16:44-50 Observations A. The sin of discontent is connected with other sins B. The sin of discontent is against God C. The sin of discontent is against the Christ [the God-man] Application A. Remember—you receive less than what you deserve B. Seek the solution for discontent in Christ

“Why create us if we can choose Hell?” This question opens a thought-provoking discussion on free will, evil, and salvation. The episode also explores how Jesus has written natural law on our hearts, the implications of the rebellion of Korah, and why God allows senseless evil in the world. Tune in for a deep dive into these critical topics. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:29 – Angels and humans were given free will. God doesn't want us to go to Hell. Since he knows everything, why bother creating us if we were to choose Hell? 13:00 – If natural law has existed since the beginning of time, how has Jesus written the law on our hearts? 23:08 – Is the rebellion of Korah a foreshadowing of the Protestant rebellion? 33:10 – Why does God allow senseless evil, such as car accidents, natural disasters, etc. to kill his people, which seems to be something that would happen in a Deistic universe? 38:05 – What is a good answer to someone who says the church is not needed but only a relationship with Jesus? 42:30 – Protestant constantly say that there is one mediator. How would you respond to that claim? 46:54 – Lutherans say baptism forgives the sin from before and after your baptism. Why would that be incorrect? 51:16 – Aren’t we supposed to pray to God in Jesus name? We are not supposed to be praying to Jesus? Explore the complex interplay of free will, evil, and salvation in this insightful discussion on why God allows choices that lead to Hell.

Korah and the Authority of God Tanya Luna July 20, 2025

Korah la chute d'un Tsadik by Rav David SHOUSHANA

Buried in a list of names is the mysterious fact that the sons of the mutinous leader Korah did not die. What follows is the bizarre journey of the sons of Korah to a ledge in Hell, where their song calls out to us, even today.

Parashat Korah - Khuchat by Rabbi Benjamin Lavian

The sermon centers on the importance of intercessory prayer and proactive ministry in the face of spiritual apathy and impending judgment, drawing parallels from the biblical account of Aaron's response to the rebellion of Korah and the Israelites. It emphasizes the urgency of sharing the gospel, particularly with younger generations, as a means of sanctifying God and preventing eternal loss, rather than relying on personal comfort or resignation. The message underscores the call to actively engage in soul-winning, recognizing that every moment presents an opportunity to lead others to reconciliation with God and avoid the consequences of spiritual neglect.

What can we learn from a rebellion that shook an entire community? In this video, we explore the powerful story of Korah's uprising in Numbers 16—a moment that shows just how serious it is to challenge God's appointed leadership. It's not just about defiance; it's about the condition of the heart. We'll talk about how discontent spreads, how easily we can be influenced by the wrong voices, and why trusting God's authority matters more than we realize. There's also a beautiful connection here: Aaron's act of intercession points us straight to Jesus and the mercy God offers even in judgment. If you've ever struggled with trusting leadership—or God's choices—this message is for you. Let's reflect together on what it looks like to have a heart of trust, humility, and surrender.

We review the journey of the Israelites as they navigated the challenges and triumphs of their covenant with God. From the construction of the Tabernacle and the initial journey from Sinai, to the complaints about manna and the provision of 70 leaders, we delve into the faith and failings of the people. We recount the pivotal moments, including the exploration of Canaan by 12 spies, Korah's rebellion, and more complaining about water. We also discuss the battles against the Amorites and Bashan, Balaam's attempted curses, and Phinehas' decisive actions. Finally, we reflect on Moses' final speech, his death, and the transition of leadership to Joshua. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...

Why Are You Cast Down, O My Soul?To the choirmaster. A Maskil of the Sons of Korah.42.1 As a deer pants for flowing streams,    so pants my soul for you, O God.2 My soul thirsts for God,    for the living God.When shall I come and appear before God?3 My tears have been my food    day and night,while they say to me all the day long,    “Where is your God?”4 These things I remember,    as I pour out my soul:how I would go with the throng    and lead them in procession to the house of Godwith glad shouts and songs of praise,    a multitude keeping festival.5 Why are you cast down, O my soul,    and why are you in turmoil within me?Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,    my salvation 6 and my God.My soul is cast down within me;    therefore I remember youfrom the land of Jordan and of Hermon,    from Mount Mizar.7 Deep calls to deep    at the roar of your waterfalls;all your breakers and your waves    have gone over me.8 By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,    and at night his song is with me,    a prayer to the God of my life.9 I say to God, my rock:    “Why have you forgotten me?Why do I go mourning    because of the oppression of the enemy?”10 As with a deadly wound in my bones,    my adversaries taunt me,while they say to me all the day long,    “Where is your God?”11 Why are you cast down, O my soul,    and why are you in turmoil within me?Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,    my salvation and my God.Send Out Your Light and Your Truth43.1 Vindicate me, O God, and defend my cause    against an ungodly people,from the deceitful and unjust man    deliver me!2 For you are the God in whom I take refuge;    why have you rejected me?Why do I go about mourning    because of the oppression of the enemy?3 Send out your light and your truth;    let them lead me;let them bring me to your holy hill    and to your dwelling!4 Then I will go to the altar of God,    to God my exceeding joy,and I will praise you with the lyre,    O God, my God.5 Why are you cast down, O my soul,    and why are you in turmoil within me?Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,    my salvation and my God.

Kevin Costner stars in the iconic 1989 film, Field of Dreams and if we have imagination, it can pique our interest in an even greater story about a greater field, not of dreams, but of harvest - the story of the sower as told parabolically by Jesus. Tune in and listen as we continue to ponder Luke's Gospel.

Parshat Korah

Psalm 42 ESV Why Are You Cast Down, O My Soul?To the choirmaster. A Maskil of the Sons of Korah.42 As a deer pants for flowing streams,    so pants my soul for you, O God.2 My soul thirsts for God,    for the living God.When shall I come and appear before God?3 My tears have been my food    day and night,while they say to me all the day long,    “Where is your God?”4 These things I remember,    as I pour out my soul:how I would go with the throng    and lead them in procession to the house of Godwith glad shouts and songs of praise,    a multitude keeping festival.5 Why are you cast down, O my soul,    and why are you in turmoil within me?Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,    my salvation[c] 6 and my God.My soul is cast down within me;    therefore I remember youfrom the land of Jordan and of Hermon,    from Mount Mizar.7 Deep calls to deep    at the roar of your waterfalls;all your breakers and your waves    have gone over me.8 By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,    and at night his song is with me,    a prayer to the God of my life.9 I say to God, my rock:    “Why have you forgotten me?Why do I go mourning    because of the oppression of the enemy?”10 As with a deadly wound in my bones,    my adversaries taunt me,while they say to me all the day long,    “Where is your God?”11 Why are you cast down, O my soul,    and why are you in turmoil within me?Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,    my salvation and my God. For more information about Redeemer Church Lubbock visit our website at redeemerlubbock.org.

Join Jeremy Miller and the rest of DMF as we explore Torah portion Korach and extract 10 lessons we can learn from this narrative. For more information on Dothan Messianic Fellowship, visit www.dothanmessianicfellowship.com 

The story of Korah is chalked full of principles related to authority and rebellion. Korah himself becomes a symbol of rebellion, shame, and shocking judgements due to his pride and stubbornness. The cardinal lesson is that rebellion against delegated authority is rebellion against God. The Spirit of Korah is alive and well today. It seeks to lead people to separate and rebel against God's delegated authorities. God hated it then and hates it now. Staying away from those who walk under its influence will keep you safe against all the fallout that is coming to their lives. Join us as we learn the earmarks of the Spirit of Korah.

The generation that left Egypt under Moses' leadership fell into bitter disappointment when they believed the bad report of the twelve spies. Korah took advantage of that depression to mount a challenge against Moses and ultimately against God Himself. His dream of assuming leadership was wrecked upon the rock of reality. God had decided and no amount of rabble rousing was going to change anything.

Download the notes here:https://tinyurl.com/062825notes______________________________________________Torah Portion:פָּרָּ שַׁ ת קֹרַׁ חKorach“Korah”I”Numbers 16:1-18:321 Samuel 11:14-12:22John 19:1-17Website: esm.usPastor Mark BiltzMission Statement: (https://esm.us/about/)El Shaddai Ministries exists to take Torah to the nations by restoring the Biblical and historical perspectives that have been lost over the last 2000 years, uncovering replacement theology, and healing our Christian-Jewish relationships.Statement of Beliefs:https://tinyurl.com/4ks6eznuCCLI License #1931787stream license #CSPL051670we have the rights to play/stream all music in this service.Website: esm.usPastor Mark BiltzMission Statement: (https://esm.us/about/)El Shaddai Ministries exists to take Torah to the nations by restoring the Biblical and historical perspectives that have been lost over the last 2000 years, uncovering replacement theology, and healing our Christian-Jewish relationships.Statement of Beliefs:https://tinyurl.com/4ks6eznuDownload the notes here:https://tinyurl.com/062125notes----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Torah Portion:Shelach“Send”I”Numbers 13-15Joshua 2:1-24Matthew 10:1-14Deuteronomy 1:24 And they turned and went up into themountain, and came unto the valley of Eshcol, and searched(ragal) it out.Genesis 48:19 And his father refused, and said, I know it, my son,I know it: He also shall become a people, and he also shall be great:But truly his younger brother shall be greater than he.Romans 10:14,15 How then shall they call on him in whom theyhave not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whomthey have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written,How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace,and bring glad tidings of good things!CCLI License #1931787stream license #CSPL051670we have the rights to play/stream all music in this service.

Korah and his followers challenge the leadership God has appointed, claiming everyone is equally holy. But their rebellion is rooted in pride and self-promotion. This portion shows that jealousy and ambition can blind us to God's order. True leadership serves, submits, and seeks God's presence above position. Korah reminds us that challenging God's design can lead to destruction, but honoring His ways leads to life.KorahNumbers 16:1-18:32Into the Pit or Up to the Mountain?Stay ConnectedLinktree: https://linktr.ee/jacobstentWebsite: https://jacobstent.org/Facebook: @jacobstentfellowship Instagram: @jacobstent Download Our App: https://jacobstent.org/appGiving: https://jacobstent.org/giveEmail Signup: http://eepurl.com/g-YpcDJoin us for our Shabbat service with Bill Cloud and the Jacob's Tent Family!If you are enjoying this live stream, PLEASE consider sending in an offering, tithe, or donation to help us continue spread the gospel free from Jacob's Tent. We work hard to make sure this is an enjoyable experience to our online community, but it doesn't come without a price.Give online via the Jacobs Tent app, our website, or text any amount to 84321 to support this ministry. Yahweh bless you and keep you! Shalom.

June 28, 2025 Today's Reading: Introit for Pentecost 3 - Psalm 85:8-10, 13; antiphon: Psalm 85:7Daily Lectionary: Joshua 3:1-17; Acts 9:1-22“Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.” (Psalm 85:7)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. When God feels far away, how would you pray to Him? What do I do when God is angry with me?The sons of Korah ask these questions of God in Psalm 85.Israel has endured the exile, and no one wants to endure that again. The future looks unclear, and history shows that for Israel the days of David and Solomon were not coming back. Life can be equally as anxious for us. Times have changed. Friendships come and go. Relationships end. Opportunities we hoped for never turn out, and life never seems to slow down. It can seem like we never quite have a handle on things.The life of the Psalmist and for the people of Israel was not about getting the upper hand. It certainly was not about going back to how things used to be, no matter how grand they appeared. We often romanticize the past and hold on to nostalgia. Those days aren't coming back, though.The life of the Psalmist is knowing where our peace and salvation come from. It comes from God Himself. Israel was passed around like a nobody to the nations. It wasn't that they didn't deserve it; it was that they did, and God heard their cries, remembered His promises, and brought them back.You may be mourning a loved one, unsure of where to go next in life, or suffering from illness in the mind and body. When you reach the edge where doubt is near, and God feels far away, remember what the sons of Korah demanded of God. “Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.”You have a God who loves you and sent His Son to die for you. Whose word tells you the steadfast love God has for you through our Lord Jesus. In Jesus, your salvation is near—it is yours. It's not a matter of what I have to do to earn it, but a matter of your sins being forgiven. Nothing will take you away from the love your Father has for you. Not political uncertainties, not momentary crises of life, not sickness, and not death.God's salvation is revealed to you in your crucified, risen, and ascended Lord Jesus. You have your Baptism to remind you of that day you were made a child of God—united to your Savior so that as you endure these final things in these last days, you find comfort in the Word, knowing your identity is sealed in the water. You are strengthened in the eating and drinking of His Body and Blood under the bread and wine. Come, Lord Jesus. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.All glory to the One Who lavishes such love; The triune God in love Assures our life above. His means of grace for us Are gifts He loves to give; All thanks and praise for His Great love by which we live! (LSB 602:6)- Justin Chester is a seminary student at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.In Clarifying the Great Commission, Rev. Daniel Christian Voth identifies common omissions from our collective understanding of Jesus' farewell discourse—omissions that turn Christ's promises of forgiveness, life, and salvation into a legalistic command. Come and discover a richer understanding of The Great Commission.

Welcome to Portions! Buckle up friends, today we're diving into Numbers 16-18 and the dramatic story of Korah's Rebellion. Our theme is “Prone to Wander,” and this one hits close to home. You don't want to miss this.Be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a video from TFI! Donate to TFI: https://www.togetherforisrael.org/givingpageVisit our Website: https://www.togetherforisrael.orgDownload our App: https://subsplash.com/togetherforisrael/download-appJoin us for a tour: https://www.tfi.tours

Korah: Individuality by Rabbi Avi Harari

Il y a plusieurs façons de mourir (Korah) by Rav David Touitou

Parashat Korah - Message du Rav avant Shabat by Rav David Touitou

Tes actes influencent sur toute ta famille (korah) by Rav David Touitou

NUMBERS 16:1-18:32

NUMBERS 16:1-18:32

The Torah begins the story of Korah's brazen uprising against Moshe Rabbenu by introducing him as "Korah, son of Yitzhar, son of Kehat, son of Levi." Rashi notes that the Torah traces Korah's genealogy back to Levi, but it stopped there, without going one generation further, mentioning "the son of Yaakob." This was done, Rashi explains, in fulfillment of Yaakob Abinu's request before his passing. In Yaakob's parting words to his sons, when he addressed Shimon and Levi, he proclaimed, "Bi'khalam Al Tehad Kebodi" – that his honor should not be associated with their "congregation" (Bereshit 49:6). This refers to the "congregation" assembled by Korah for the purpose of challenging the authority of Moshe Rabbenu. Yaakob did not want his name mentioned in the context of this sinful uprising, and so the Torah identified Korah only as "son of Yitzhar, son of Kehat, son of Levi," without adding, "son of Yaakob." Several later scholars addressed the obvious problem with Rashi's comments – his assumption that the Torah should have traced Korah's lineage all the way back to Yaakob. Rashi says that the Torah would have mentioned also "son of Yaakob" if not for Yaakob's request that his name be omitted – but why would Yaakob's name have needed to be mentioned? For that matter, why did the Torah bother tracing Korah's lineage even back to Levi? The Torah already presented the genealogy of the tribe of Levi, back in the Book of Shemot (6), and Korah's family background is included there. Why did the Torah go through the trouble of telling us that Korah was the "son of Yitzhar, the son of Kehat, the son of Levi," and why would it have added also "son of Yaakob" if Yaakob hadn't asked not to be mentioned? A fascinating answer is given by the Maharal of Prague (Rav Yehuda Loew, 1512-1609), in his Gur Aryeh. He explains that the Torah wanted to emphasize the extent of Korah's evil in launching this uprising against Moshe, by noting his distinguished lineage. Korah himself was a prominent member of the nation, among those who carried the ark during travel, but also descended from outstanding Sadikim – Yitzhar, Kehat, Levi, and the patriarchs. Of course, Korah's revolt would have been a grievous sin no matter who he was, but his prominent family background made it particularly severe. This is why the Torah made a point of mentioning his distinguished, righteous predecessors – and would have gone as far as mentioning also Yaakob Abinu, except that Yaakob asked that his name be omitted from this context. The Maharal's explanation brings to mind an insight of the Maggid of Dubna (1741-1804) regarding a verse in Parashat Behukotai (26:42). This verse appears in the section known as the "Tocheha," where G-d warns of the dreadful calamities that He would bring upon Beneh Yisrael as punishment for their misdeeds. G-d in this verse proclaims that He would remember the covenant He made with the patriarchs. It seems that He is now offering consolation, emphasizing that despite His anger, and although He would be punishing the people, He would nevertheless have compassion due to His covenant with the Abot. However, the next verse then continues the description of the exile that the Jewish People would suffer on account of their sins – indicating that the comforting conclusion of the Tocheha has not yet begun. The Maggid of Dubna thus explains that in this verse, G-d warns the people that their wrongdoing is exceptionally severe because of whom they descend from – the sacred patriarchs, with whom Hashem made a special covenant. As heirs of this covenant, and members of this special nation, their misdeeds are considered graver. The Maggid draws an analogy to two people who committed the same minor misdemeanor – a prince, and a poor peasant. The peasant is sentenced to several weeks of prison, whereas the prince is handed a ten-year jail sentence. The reason is that the prince's offense is far more grievous due to his family background, because he is the king's son, a member of the royal family. We, Am Yisrael, must live with this awareness, that we are royalty, that we are "princes," the children of Abraham, Yishak and Yaakob. As members of the "royal family," who have received and studied the Torah, which instructs us how to live a "regal" lifestyle, more is expected of us than of other people. We are bidden to maintain the high standards demanded of Hashem's special nation who represent Him to the rest of the world, and always strive to be worthy of this unique privilege.

With the dramatic episodes that ensue in this parasha we focus this year not on the extraordinary nature of these events or what brought them on, but on the response of the people to them. The response indicates a unique perspective of the Israelite mind that is fundamental to Jewish thought and philosophy.

The rebellion of Korah ends dramatically, but the people continue to come against Moses. A plague kills over 14,000 Israelites. Aaron's blossomed branch.

What does it really mean to be wealthy?In today's episode, Yael Eckstein explores the biblical story of Korah, a man so wealthy that he got a false sense of importance and began a rebellion against Moses—and against God Himself. Do you know what happened next? Let's just say it didn't end well for Korah.While most of us know that money is finite, and not eternal, it's easy to lose sight of this during everyday life. But, as Yael shares, if we count our good deeds instead of our money, we'll discover how truly wealthy we all are in God's eyes! Listen now!And listen to more of Yael's teachings from the Bible on her daily podcast, The Chosen People.

Some Israelites try to go to Canaan without God. A Sabbath-breaker executed. Korah leads a rebellion against Moses and Aaron.

Comment Kora'h a-t-il pu convaincre tellement de gens de choses mauvaises et fausses sur Moché Rabbénou ? Dans la vie, en quoi est-il si important pour un Juif d'avoir un Rav auquel demander conseil, au lieu de prendre de grandes décisions tout seul ? En quoi la frustration empêche-t-elle la réflexion ? Lorsque nous pensons différemment d'une personne, comment savoir si nous cherchons la vérité, ou la satisfaction de nos propres intérêts ? Réponse à travers des propos de Rachi, de Rav 'Haïm Schmoulevitz et du Rambam.

Tes fautes ouvrent la porte à tes ennemis (Korah) by Rav David Touitou

L'erreur de Korah by Rav David Touitou

Les conséquences d'une vie sans rav (Korah) by Rav David Touitou

L'œil du mal (magnifique cours - Korah) by Rav David Touitou

Korah a mérité une paracha à son nom by Rav David Touitou

The JTS Commentary for Korah by Dr. Benjamin Sommer, Professor of Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages, JTSThis commentary was originally broadcast in 2013.Music provided by JJReinhold / Pond

Comment comprendre les arguments de Kora'h lors de sa dispute avec Moché Rabbénou ? En quoi l'attitude de celui-ci lors de ce conflit est-elle choquante ? Pourquoi s'est-il comporté ainsi ? En quoi la confiance en nos Sages est-elle si importante ? Réponses à travers des propos du Malbim, du Kli Yakar, du Steipeler et du Sfat Émet.

Join Pastor Erica Giesow as she dives into Psalm 42 and we learn from the sons of Korah how to thirst for God in Week 3 of "Summer Playlist."

Author of best selling 'Practical Kabbalah' (Random House) available on Amazon.Rabbi's Wolf's work has been lauded by spiritual leaders including Rabbi Lord Sir Jonathan Sacks OBM, the Dalai Lama, and Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu OBM, the Chief Rabbi of Israel from whom Rabbi Wolf received his Rabbinical ordination.

There is a fair amount of promotion of the need for body building and physical fitness these days. It is a pity there is not as much – indeed more – emphasis on being spiritually fit, it is far more needed – and vital for our own eternal well-being. Our thoughts were provoked along these lines as we read today the 25 verses of the short letter of Jude.He starts by telling us he is the brother of James, so it is usually accepted that he is another half-brother of Jesus. In Matthew 13 v.55, we see that Jesus had a (half) brother, Judas is well as one named James. We assume he is writing in his old age, he addresses ” those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ” [v.1]. Jude sees much evidence of declining faith and writes “appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” [v.3]There is one true faith – a right way of believing and living, but some “pervert the grace of God into sensuality …” [v.4] and this in effect means they “deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.” We show we believe not only by our words but by how we live and Jude gives examples from history of so many who, although they made ‘offerings' to God “walked in the way of Cain” and of Balaam and Korah (son of Aaron) who all had intimate knowledge of things divine but who acted in evil ways. [v.11]Jude was obviously living in the last days of the Jewish nation, but his warnings of the approaching end are very applicable to today. “You must remember,” he writes, “the predictions of the apostles … they said to you, ‘In the last time there will be scoffers … who cause divisions, worldly people. But you, beloved, build yourselves up in your most holy faith … keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” [v.18-21] Only by such building up will we gain eternal life.The result of genuinely doing this will be a real living relationship with our Lord “who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy.” [v.24] Let us build ourselves up to a genuine state of spiritual fitness, feeding on God's word every day is an essential part of our diet.

This week we remember Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys; Why Dr Who is so Woke; the rise of X; Boy George v. J K Rowling; Queer TripAdvisor;  Why calling children 'naughty' is 'unscientific';  Queering Shakespeare; the UK Parliament decriminalises full term abortion; Jacob Rees Moog; the Israel/Iran war;  Senator's murderer preaches; Bishop Bonnie Perry v. the Bishop David A. McClay; Bakeoff and Nadyia Hussain; Moira Deeming - the Presbyterian politician; Antarctica; Mark Carney's U turn on fossil fuels; Rachel Kyte flies round the world to stop people flying; EA study on new Christians; Feedback and Habakkuk with music from the Beach Boys; Boy George and the Sons of Korah. 

We explore a further act of rebellion by Israelites in the wilderness, led by Korah against Moses and Aaron. Despite witnessing numerous miracles, the people continue to disobey God's commands. Korah disputes Aaron's role as high priest, leading to a divine test that ends with a dramatic display of God's judgment. The ground splits open, swallowing Korah and his followers, while a plague claims nearly 15,000 lives.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...

Psalm 88,O Lord, God of my salvation, I cry out day and night before you.2 Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry!3 For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to Sheol.4 I am counted among those who go down to the pit; I am a man who has no strength,5 like one set loose among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave,like those whom you remember no more, for they are cut off from your hand.6 You have put me in the depths of the pit, in the regions dark and deep.7 Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves. Selah8 You have caused my companions to shun me; you have made me a horror to them.I am shut in so that I cannot escape;9 my eye grows dim through sorrow.Every day I call upon you, O Lord; I spread out my hands to you.10 Do you work wonders for the dead? Do the departed rise up to praise you? Selah11 Is your steadfast love declared in the grave, or your faithfulness in Abaddon?12 Are your wonders known in the darkness, or your righteousness in the land of forgetfulness?13 But I, O Lord, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you.14 O Lord, why do you cast my soul away? Why do you hide your face from me?15 Afflicted and close to death from my youth up, I suffer your terrors; I am helpless.16 Your wrath has swept over me; your dreadful assaults destroy me.17 They surround me like a flood all day long; they close in on me together.18 You have caused my beloved and my friend to shun me; my companions have become darkness.Psalm 88 is similar to many other psalms in that first, it's a prayer, and second, it's a lament — the psalmist is struggling. We see this often in the psalms. But Psalm 88 is dissimilar to other psalms — or really, it's unlike any other psalm in that it has no resolution. Other psalms will feature moments of disorientation and darkness, but by the last verse, they spring forward, they bounce back, they recite hope. But that's not the case in Psalm 88. The very last verse, where we're expecting the light to break through, says, verse 18:“You have caused my beloved and my friend to shun me; my companions have become darkness.” We can see it there on the page in verse 18. Darkness literally gets the last word in Psalm 88, which is why this psalm has been called “the saddest psalm of the Psalter.”It's uncomfortable to read; it's uncomfortable to preach; it's uncomfortable to listen to, but here we are this morning, and I want to know: Why does God give us Psalm 88?Now, we know the answer to that question is because somehow it's good for us. By God's grace, he loves us and he's committed to our everlasting good in Christ — we know that's true and that's where we should start any time we ask “why” about anything: God is good. He loves you. And he's sovereign. So a better question might be: Why is Psalm 88 good for us? In God's wisdom and love, why do we need Psalm 88?I think there are three reasons. We're going to look at each one, but first let's pray again and ask God for help.Father in heaven, by your grace we are here with your Word open before us, and we ask for your help. We reject any assumptions that there's nothing here for us, and we reject any pretense that thinks we can gain anything from you in our own strength. Our souls are needy and you must feed us. Do that, please, in Jesus's name, amen. The first reason we need Psalm 88 …1. Soul trouble is a real experience in Christian life.We don't know the historical details behind this psalm. The superscript tells us that it's from a son of Korah named Heman the Ezrahite — and there are a couple different “Hemans” in the Old Testament; we're not 100% sure which one this is, but he's not to be confused with He-Man, the cartoon from the 1980s. This is Heman the psalmist, but beyond that, we don't know much about what's going on. We don't know of a certain event he's responding to. And that's on purpose.It's important for us to see that the trouble in Psalm 88 is not an external physical enemy, but it's personal and spiritual … and the thing with personal, spiritual trouble is that it can happen anywhere at any time — in the Middle East in 600BC or here, today — and it can happen for all kinds of reasons, some that make sense and others that make no sense.In Need of a CategoryThe fact is it's trouble. The psalmist says in verse 3,“My soul is full of troubles.”And we can understand that … he has a troubled soul. Soul trouble. And this a category we need. There is such a thing as a condition of soul that's like being on the edge of the grave, he says in verse 3. He uses lots metaphors to describe the experience …Verse 4:“I am counted among those who go down to the pit, I am a man who has no strength.”To paraphrase him, he's saying, I've been betted against and drained of life, verse 4. I'm like a zombie and useless — discarded with the dead, verse 5. I'm forgotten and forsaken by God, verse 6.And this is the psalm. You heard it read. It's this kind of talking pretty much the whole way through, and it just goes from bad to worse, to finally darkness. This is soul trouble — it's a condition.Or, it's what some have called “spiritual depression.” That's the title that Martyn Lloyd-Jones gave it back in the 1960s (the word “depression” was not used back then like it is today). But he explained it as an experience in the Christian life when you're in a prolonged state of spiritual discouragement, heaviness, or lack of joy — and not because of some sin, but it just is. This experience has also been called “the dark night of the soul.” Or also “divine absence.”They're all talking about the same thing. It's an experience of intense spiritual dryness, disorientation, and darkness — it's when God has permitted himself to seem far from you.We need a category for this. So call it what you want — “spiritual depression” or “dark night of the soul” or “divine absence” — I'm calling it soul trouble (to use the words of verse 3). But the main thing is that you know it's a thing. It's a real experience in the Christian life, and some of you know about it all too well because you've been there … or you are there now. And we don't like to be there. We don't want to be here. But we can't just make it stop. Others Have Been There, TooWell, first thing we all should know about this experience is that when you find yourself there, you're not alone and it's not uncommon. Historically, we have lots of examples of past saints who've been there.Charles Spurgeon spoke openly of his own soul trouble. In 1858, he preached a sermon to his church titled, “The Christian's Heaviness and Rejoicing,” and in that sermon he said, I was lying upon my couch during this last week, and my spirits were sunken so low that I could weep by the hour like a child, and yet I knew not what I wept for …He battled this all throughout his ministry. Spurgeon can help us. But personally, I've been most helped by John Bunyan, another Baptist ancestor and pastor. Bunyan lived in the 1600s but we can read him today, and he talks about his struggles openly in his autobiography. He called his experience “many turnings and goings” upon his heart. That's another way to say Ups and downs. Back and forth. I want to read to you an extended quote from Bunyan, and it's in Old English, so hang with me (it's printed in the handout if you want to follow). He writes this: I have wondered much at this one thing, that though God doth visit my soul with never so blessed a discovery of himself, yet I have found again, that such hours have attended me afterwards, that I have been in my spirit so filled with darkness, that I could not so much as once conceive what that God and that comfort was with which I have been refreshed.I have sometimes seen more in a line of the Bible than I could well tell how to stand under, and yet at another time the whole Bible hath been to me as dry as a stick; or rather, my heart hath been so dead and dry unto it, that I could not conceive the least dram of refreshment, though I have looked it all over.Do you hear him? His Christian life is like a roller coaster. He sees and then he can't see. He has affections and then no affections. Rivers of refreshment; dry as a desert. And it doesn't make sense. You ever been there before?Brothers and sisters, you're not alone. As the Word of God!We can read about the experiences of past saints, but even better than that, God gave us Psalm 88. We can read the experience here as the word of God. We can walk with this psalmist as he's in the darkest part of the valley. Verse 7:“Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves.”You've isolated me, verse 8. I'm shunned.I pray to you every day but you don't listen. Why do you reject me? Why are you hiding from me?I'm overwhelmed. I'm exhausted. I'm being destroyed and I can't get a break. I'm in the dark.Soul trouble. That's what this is. And we need Psalm 88 because soul trouble is a real experience in the Christian life. God gave us this psalm so that we know what to do with it.That's the second reason we need Psalm 88.2. We learn to take our soul trouble to God. Okay, so Psalm 88 is bleak and despairing at face-value, but when we look closer, we can see that it's not without hope, and that's because of the most obvious fact of this psalm: it is a prayer. Which means, everything that is said here is said to God. Look at this with me, verse 1: “O Yahweh, God of my salvation, I cry out day and night before you. Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry!”Verse 9: “Every day I call upon you, O Yahweh; I spread out my hands to you.”Verse 13:“But I, O Yahweh, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you.”Do see that? You, you, you! The psalmist is bringing his soul trouble to God even as he knows that God is the one in control of it. The God We Can TrustThat's the amazing thing of the very first line in verse 1. He starts this whole psalm with, “O Yahweh, God of my salvation.”Now why is that important? It's that he addresses God by his covenant name, Yahweh. The name “Yahweh” is the name that God revealed to Moses (and the people of Israel) as the grounds by which he can be trusted. This revelation is one of the highest moments in all the Bible. It is Exodus 34, on Mount Sinai: God passed before Moses and proclaimed his name:“Yahweh, Yahweh, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness…”God proclaimed himself to be the God who is there, and who is there to save. He is the present, saving God — Yahweh. That's his name! That's who he is! He is the present, saving God even when we can't see, even when we may not feel it. The psalmist acknowledges this reality right from the start. He's in the dark, but even in the dark he comes to the God of promise, the God of covenant faithfulness, the God of his salvation. That's what it means to call God by his name, “Yahweh” — which he does in verse 1, verse 9, and verse 13.The psalmist feels forgotten, but he has not forgotten who to tell it to. Verses 1, 9, and 13 frame this psalm. He's saying, Yahweh, I'm a mess, look at me. This is where I am. I'm a mess, but I'm your mess … And I'm coming to you. We are taught here to do the same thing. Three Possible ScenariosThere are really three possible scenarios we could be in. Track with me here:1. The best scenario — this is not to have soul trouble — this is when God is close and clear. It's what John Bunyan was talking about when he said “God doth visit my soul with blessed discoveries of himself.” We read the Bible and we can see! And we're mainly thankful! Don't you want that? It is “heaven on earth” (that's what the Puritan Thomas Brooks called it). It's the best scenario.2. The worst scenario — this is to have soul trouble, to feel all the things Psalm 88 feels, but it's to run away from God. It's to abandon God, reject God, refuse to pray. That is “hell on earth.” God, keep us from that. It's the worst scenario.So there's the best scenario and the worst scenario, and Psalm 88 is neither of those. So what is it?3. It's the second-best scenario. It's to have the soul trouble, but to bring the soul trouble to the God who ‘feels' far away. It's to call him by his name, Yahweh, the God of my salvation. It's to say, I'm a mess, but I'm your mess. It's not the best place to be, but it's the second-best place to be, and sometimes God calls us to second best.Part of Our Vocab?And again, in terms of a category, this is one that I want us to have in our church. I think it's a big problem in the local church when everyone pretends like they're in the best scenario when they're not. Everybody we see, we say, “Hey, how are you?” And it's constantly, “Great! Great! Great!” I want us all to know: we don't have to say “great” if it's not great. But then what do we say? If it's not great and somebody asks you, “Hey, how are you?” You can say, “I'm doing second-best.”Could we make that part of our vocabulary?If we're doing second-best, let's tell one another, and help one another. God loves you right there, in that valley, in second-best. He loves you. He is the God of your salvation. Take your soul trouble to him. Psalm 88 shows us how to do that.Third reason God gives us this psalm …3. Jesus has endured the darkness for us.The Book of Psalms overall is meant to be a guide for our worship. The psalms model for us how to live the life of real faith with all its ups and downs, turnings and goings. And it's amazing how we can identify with such an ancient text. We forget sometimes that this was written thousands of years ago. And yet, we can read it and we get where the writers are coming from. That's astounding. We have an ancient faith, and the psalms are for our faith. But the psalms are not about us and our faith. The psalms are mainly about the Messiah. Some psalms are more overt here than others, but every psalm, taken in context, is meant to point us to Jesus. The same goes for Psalm 88.And I think that becomes clearer the more we slow down and hear what the psalmist is saying. As dark as our own situation might be, there are parts of Psalm 88 that stretch beyond our experience. Wait, It's Not That DarkAs it turns out, I ran into my own soul trouble this past week. True story. I didn't cry for an hour like a child, like Spurgeon did, but I hit a snag, I was spinning my wheels for a bit, and providentially, I'm in Psalm 88. But the more I meditated on it, I was like, Yeah, I'm not there. It's not that dark. And I think we all have to say that by the time we get to verse 7. This is one we need to see together. Can everybody find verse 7? If you don't have a Bible, we'd love to give you one, but for now look on with a neighbor if you need to. We all need to see verse 7,“Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves. Selah”Now notice he doesn't say, “It feels like your wrath is upon me.” No, he says, “Your wrath” — ḥēmāh, your fury, your rage — “your wrath lies heavy upon me.” And I read that this week and said, I've never been there. Some of us in this room have been in some really dark places, but none of us have ever been there. When you get to Psalm 88, verse 7 — the wrath of God heavy upon me — you read that and realize: there's only one person who's ever been there and lived to talk to about it. His name is Jesus. And look, he went there for you. We can say, he went there for me.He Went There For YouHe went there, to that ultimate place of darkness, and he suffered that wrath, so that we don't have to. Which means: as dark as it might get for you, you can remember that Jesus has already gone there and beyond there — on the darkest of days, from a hill called the Skull, after he cried forsaken, after he said It was finished, after they sealed the tomb with a stone, he went there, to the grave where his companions became darkness … but then he looked Death in the face and he said You're done. … And he left. He got up.He was raised in death-defeating, indestructible life which he has right now, for you, where you are. You might feel alone, but you are not alone. He will never leave you. He will never forsake you. Jesus is not afraid of the dark, and because of him we don't have to be either. Praise him! Praise him! What a Savior!Jesus, thank you for your great love for us. And thank you that the proof of your love is in your wounds. We know that you've not abandoned us. You've not forgotten us. But you're here with us always and you hold us even when we hurt. And we can't see. You've got us. We praise you, Jesus. We praise you.