Podcasts about Levite

Finding the Biblical Ruth and Boaz In Today's Culture of Confusion   What does an ancient love story have to say about modern chaos? Host Curtis Chang and Good Faith contributor Andy Crouch dive into the Book of Ruth to uncover radical lessons on redemption, loyalty, and faithfulness that challenge today's culture of individualism and spiritual mobility. From Naomi's grief to Ruth's fierce commitment and Boaz's redemptive actions, Andy and Curtis explore how acts of devotion can disrupt systems of power and reshape community. Discover how an old story can offer fresh vision for navigating displacement, hospitality, and purpose in our fractured world.   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Resources mentioned in this episode: Book of Ruth (ESV) Rachael Starke's Boys will be Boaz (TGC article) Judges 19-20 (ESV) - the Levite's concubine N.T. Wright explains Scripture as narrative (video)  Understanding the Hebrew word hesed Understanding gleaning in the story of Ruth The role of and the ultimate kinsman-redeemer   More From Andy Crouch: Interact with Andy's website Check out Andy's work at Praxis Read Andy's book: The Life We're Looking For Read Andy's book: The Tech-Wise Family   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Send us a textBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.  Galatians 5:22-23You can't Learn  fruit. Fruit is the Byproduct of who we are. On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”   “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”  He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.” But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”  In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead.  A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side.In the same way a Levite also came there, went over and looked at the man, and then walked on by on the other side. “Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Luke 10:25-33I can Keep My Distance I can be Curious but Uncaring  I can Show Kindness 1.   I must see The Needs of people around me.“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Luke 10:332.  I must sympathize With their Pain.Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Luke 10:33Stop asking: What's wrong with them?Ask: What  Happened to them? 3.  I must seize the Moment to help. Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Luke 10:34I must be willing to Be Interrupted. I have to be willing to Face my fears. 4.  I must spend whatever it takes.Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him.  The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I'll pay you the next time I'm here.' “What do you think? Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?” “The one who treated him kindly,” the religion scholar responded. Jesus said, “Go and do the same.” Luke 10:36-37Being kind to the people in need is like lending to the Lord, and He will repay you for the kindness you have shown. Proverbs 19:17 NCV Discussion Questions:What's one idea from the message that really stood out to you? Why did this idea grab your attention?Can you think of some examples where we use other's pain as entertainment?  What are some practical areas of your life where slowing down will help you be more kind?How can we be more intentional about engaging our feelings to sympathize with other people's struggles?What are some common costs to showing kindness and how can we be more prepared to pay them this week? Thank you for listening to the Relate Community Church podcast! Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. If today's message spoke to you, share it with a friend or leave us a review to help spread the word. To learn more about Relate Community Church, visit us at www.relatecommunity.com. You are always welcome here, and remember—you are loved

In his latter days, David charges his son Solomon to build the temple for the worship of God, and this is when we learn a few pieces of new information. First, we learn that the Lord did not allow David to build the temple because his hands had shed so much blood and because he had waged great wars. We also realize that David looked forward to the building of the temple even though he himself couldn't build it, charging his son with the task and spending his own time and resources to create a stockpile for the project. David also assigns duties and tasks for the Levite priests before he dies, paving the way for transition from the tabernacle to the temple once Solomon becomes king.1 Chronicles 21 - 1:03 . 1 Chronicles 22 - 8:07 . 1 Chronicles 23 - 12:24 . Psalm 104 - 17:22 .  :::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

Samuel, as well as being Israel's last judge, was the bridge between the 450 year era of the judges and the kingdom of God on earth in its first constitution. From the lofty heights of Ramathaim-Zophim came a devout Levite named Elkanah, who has two wives Hannah and Peninnah - the former being barren, but greatly loved. Hannah was sorely grieved and provoked by her adversary Peninnah. Together Elkanah and Hannah went to the Tabernacle at Shiloh to entreat God for a son. In her extreme grief Eli, the High Priest, mistakenly thinks she is a drunken loose woman and implores her to leave. She pours out to him her heart, just as she has done to God, and he asks that Yahweh would grant her the petition she made. Samuel is born, prepared and educated at home for a life of service to the LORD. At the appropriate time he is presented at the house of worship and returned to God. Isaiah 46 outlines the utter futility of idols, which had to be rescued and rushed away from the battle at Babylon's fall. Verses 3-4 tell of Yahweh being Israel's nursing Father who from the time of the nation's birth until  their old age. He is the Redeemer of Israel and will save them with an everlasting salvation in Messiah's kingdom. Verses 5-7 describe the mindset of idol worshippers and the futility that comes with their exertions to make a beautiful idol. Verses 8-11 tell of the Almighty judging of all idolators and the foreknowledge and power of our Omnipotent Creator who knows everything that will happen and reveals the important truths about His people through His prophets: Amos 3verses 1-8. The man destined to conquer Babylon and execute the LORD's judgement s was Cyrus king of Persia. Cyrus Is likened to a bird of prey ravening the carcass of degenerate Babylon. Contrast this with our Omniscient Creator who tells the future, even predicting the overthrowing of Babylon about 200 years after this prophecy by Isaiah concerning Cyrus, whose method of capturing the impregnable city of Babylon is described. That he would also decree for the exiles from Jerusalem to return - see Ezra 1 verses 1-4; which occurred in BC 537. A coin commemorating this and the relocation of the US Embassy to Jerusalem was issued in 2017 with the quote from Ezra.Isaiah 47 is a chapter of Zion's rejoicing at the humiliation of Babylon. That majestic harlot sits in the dust to eke out an existence and she does so because as  verse 4 says: "Yahweh has redeemed Zion". The two women of this chapter are the two women of Proverbs and the two women of Revelation. Verses 5-9 outline the haughty thoughts of literal Babylon and they are symbolic of the thinking of mystical Babylon. The words are quoted in Revelation 18:7. Verses 10-13 tell of her lying enchantments and sorceries which are commented on in Revelation 18 verses 11-24. Isaiah 47 verses 14-15 speaks of Babylon's being brought to nought. Revelation 3 is our Lord's timeless message of warning, advice and essential attitudinal changes were required of the  3 of the 7 Turkish ecclesias Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. The first had to realise that the reputation Sardis once enjoyed was gone and they needed to wake up, repent and get back to their roots. Philadelphia, alone of the ecclesias received no condemnation, but rather they are encouraged to remain steadfast. On the other hand, the wealthy Laodicea was pitifully ignorant of their true state and needed to open the door of their hearts to the soon to be returned and door-knocking Lord Jesus Christ. Chapter 4 presents the Christ ruling with his saints in glory. The chapter is an invitation for the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ, to ascend into the political heavens through the open door and rule upon the earth. This is an encouraging vision of the kingdom on which we will elaborate on in tomorrows' comments. Chapter 4 presents the Christ ruling with his saints in glory. It is part of a vision of the Lord Jesus Christ ruling in glory with his saints - faithful believers - during the kingdom age soon to come. The Apostle John as part of the Lords bride is invited into the political heavens of rulership at the start of this vision. The first part of this vision is revealed in chapter 4 verses 2-11. John sees the throne of the Lamb surrounded by 24 elders who represent the worthy saints of all time until the resurrection. They are the 24 orders of king-priests that reign with Jesus Messiah. These 24 elders are described in verse 7 as being like the cherubim of Ezekiel 1 and the seraphim of Isaiah 6. In verses 8-11 they rightfully ascribe glory to God and His glorious Son.

As Judges ends, we see perhaps the worst story in all the Bible. I have often been told that in ancient days, Rabbis would not allow youths to read the Song of Solomon until they were “of age” because of the themes. I believe the story of the Levite's concubine is much the same.  It's a story of sexual assault, of evil, of abuse, of just the very worst of humanity.  Reinhold Niebuhr once wrote that the doctrine of original sin is “the only empirically verifiable doctrine of the Christian faith.”  All you have to do is look around, and you can see it. Judges proves that point to us. And what starts all of this?  Everyone does what is right in their own eyes. Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judges%2019-21&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

These last few chapters of Judges can be understood as a commentary on what has happened to the people.  We see this refrain, over and over throughout the book, the people did what was right in their own eyes.  We see in these two chapters how the people are seeking to bend their faith and their religion to their own desires. They are doing things like asking God to bless an idol!  And having a Levite priest lead people in worship, all in the name of God!  The people have lost their way to the point that they are corrupting their religion to their desires, instead of having their religion hold them accountable.  We need to be very careful when there is no one in our lives who will hold us accountable. That is what has happened here. Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judges%2017-18&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

How ironic that the unity which was lacking at the start of Judges is now evident for retribution. Verse 1 "all Israel... as one man... from Dan to Beersheba came together to destroy their brothers - 400,000 of them. On hearing the Levite's report vengeance is agreed upon. In v11, for emphasis, we have repeated "all Israel... as one man". The Benjamites, likewise, gather unitedly to fight for undeserving reprobates in a forlorn hope. The record adds, with a measure of sadness, that 700 from the tribe meaning 'son of the right hand' were left-handed ie untrue to what should be expected from them. These Benjamanites were so accurate in using their slingshots that the description was that they could hit a target of a hair's' breadth - the expression "not miss" means in the Hebrew to 'not sin' (sin is 'a missing of the mark'; we aim for perfection but we all fall short of this: see Romans 3 verse 23). The chapter concludes with the near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin - but 600 only surviving.

How ironic that the unity which was lacking at the start of Judges is now evident for retribution. Verse 1 "all Israel... as one man... from Dan to Beersheba came together to destroy their brothers - 400,000 of them. On hearing the Levite's report vengeance is agreed upon. In v11, for emphasis, we have repeated "all Israel... as one man". The Benjamites, likewise, gather unitedly to fight for undeserving reprobates in a forlorn hope. The record adds, with a measure of sadness, that 700 from the tribe meaning 'son of the right hand' were left-handed ie untrue to what should be expected from them. These Benjamanites were so accurate in using their slingshots that the description was that they could hit a target of a hair's' breadth - the expression "not miss" means in the Hebrew to 'not sin' (sin is 'a missing of the mark'; we aim for perfection but we all fall short of this: see Romans 3 verse 23). The chapter concludes with the near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin - but 600 only surviving. Isaiah describes Messiah's wholehearted devotion and gentle support of any who could be revitalised. Verses 1-4 tell of the faithfulness of the servant - our Lord Jesus Christ - who will not rest until he has completed his Father's work. That work involves tenderness and encouragement of the downcast and strugglers. Messiah will focus their minds on Almighty God who strengthens all who put their trust in Him. Verses 5-9 speaks of Yahweh's character and care for His children. They righteous sing a new song in praise of their Sovereign in verses 10-13. Verses 14-17 tell of the LORD rousing Himself to vindicate His people and to bring vengeance upon their enemies. The Servant himself is supported and sustained by God Almighty. Sadly the chapter concludes with a lament that, in large measure, the nation would be unheeding of Messiah's message imploring Israel to turn to their Maker. As Isaiah 6 had said they would be deaf to the message and blind to the signs that the Messiah would show them. In 1 John 5 verses 1-5 we are told the source of overcoming the world - by the faith of the son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. And by that faith I live. An early Christadelphian writer, John Thomas said, that this was by a faith, which works by love and purifiers the soul (life). John Thomas was alluding to the early verses of Galatians 5. The Apostle John tells us that such a belief is evidence of our divine begetting. And, for us, it is the assurance ("by this we know") that God is with us. We can be more than conquerors through Him who loves us (Romans 8). The work, spoken of in chapter 2, is not about our love, but we do love the Father with all of our heart. And this love of the Father which impels us was the motive force of the life of the Son of God. Read Romans 8 verses 31-39 slowly and pause and ponder. Verses 6-12 provide testimony concerning the Son of God. Our Lord Jesus who came by water and blood - the water in which he was immersed at his baptism and the water of the Word of God with which his mind was saturated; and the blood of his sacrificial offering of himself. This offering was sanctified by the Word of God and prayer and pleased his Father. John is alluding to his witnessing of the crucifixion (John 19 verses 34-37). Verse 7 from the ESV reads, and I quote in full, "For there are three that testify:". Most of the better translations recognise the insertion into the text of additional words which aren't found in most of the older manuscripts. The additional words used in the KJV (and some other versions are admitted by most modern translations to be spurious and added by a Jesuit monk, Immanuel Tapsensis). Verse 8 identifies the three witnesses to our Lord's divine Sonship as - the Spirit, the water and the blood. Under the law at least two corroborating witnesses were needed to determine truth. John affirms total agreement among these witnesses. Additionally God bore testimony, Matthew 3 verses 15-17, to His Son. And only in His Son, and through His Son's work, we have life. From verses 13-21 the beloved disciple John has written these things for our assurance ("that we may know"). We have known and believed upon the name above every name (Philippians 2:9-11), and the only name in which there is salvation (Acts 4 verse 12). And through continuance in this Name salvation is assured. John repeats that the Father's ear is ever open to His children's pleas. Verses 16-17 reiterates that when we love the brethren we will help them (as they will likewise help us) when we stumble (Galatians 6 verse 1-5). Such advice and correction will prevent rejection at the coming judgment of our Lord Jesus Christ. But, for the habitual and lawless sinner, who has abandoned any attempt to continue walking in the light there remains "no offering for sin" (Hebrews 10 verses 26-39). Being begotten by God, through His Word (1 Peter 1verse 22-25), we overcome in faith and walk in the way of His commandments. The world and its ways allure, but cannot conquer us. Finally, says John, "Keep yourself from idols" - a specific allusion to the Ten Commandments (especially numbers 1 and 10 which bookend all the others). Keeping  ourselves from idols is about the tendency within our human nature to always look after ourselves before applying ourselves to living according to the ways of our Almighty Father.

The tell tale words "In those days when there was no king in Israel" start the sorry saga of the final appendix of the book. They set the scene for the sad state of Benjamin from which tribe came the nation's first earthly king. An unfaithful concubine from Bethlehem-Judah in the allotment of Judah returned to her home having her Levite husband. This unnamed Levite would not, ironically, stay in Jebusite territory lest evil befall them. Instead unspeakable crimes were perpetrated upon his concubine by fellow Jewish reprobates of Jerusalem from the tribe of Benjamin. The Levite heartless husband took the carcass of the pitiful victim, who had been abused all night long by the perverted Benjaminites. The Levite dissected her into 12 parts which were sent to each tribe to invoke retribution. His actions later were copied by king Saul to arouse Israel to unite and take vengeance upon the Benjaminites. How ironic it is that Saul's own tribe: Benjamin - was almost brought to extinction in response to the Levites actions; and that Saul cuts an ox into 12 parts in the same fashion as the Levite did with his concubine.

The tell tale words "In those days when there was no king in Israel" start the sorry saga of the final appendix of the book. They set the scene for the sad state of Benjamin from which tribe came the nation's first earthly king. An unfaithful concubine from Bethlehem-Judah in the allotment of Judah returned to her home having her Levite husband. This unnamed Levite would not, ironically, stay in Jebusite territory lest evil befall them. Instead unspeakable crimes were perpetrated upon his concubine by fellow Jewish reprobates of Jerusalem from the tribe of Benjamin. The Levite heartless husband took the carcass of the pitiful victim, who had been abused all night long by the perverted Benjaminites. The Levite dissected her into 12 parts which were sent to each tribe to invoke retribution. His actions later were copied by king Saul to arouse Israel to unite and take vengeance upon the Benjaminites. How ironic it is that Saul's own tribe: Benjamin  - was almost brought to extinction in response to the Levites actions; and that Saul cuts an ox into 12 parts in the same fashion as the Levite did with his concubine. Isaiah 41 is a prophecy about the Persian king Cyrus who overthrew king Belshazzar's Babylon in BC 538. The chapter tells us of the useless futility of idols and the stupidity of those who insanely give them credence in worship. In Isaiah 41 the faithful are reminded that, despite seemingly unstoppable calamity, their trust in the Almighty will see those He deems to be His faithful servants delivered. So the prophet urges a calmness that will come from heeding their Sovereign's Word. Verses 2-4 describe what the LORD has done for His people and tell them Yahweh alone is their Saviour and God. Verses 5-6 tell of the coastlands response. However verse 7 speaks of a futile persistence of some in idolatry. Verses 8-10 appeal to Israel to trust in their Sovereign. Verses 11-16 encourage Israel that the LORD will protect His people and destroy their foes. Verses 17-20 speak of grand promises of the Almighty to prosper and bless His people. We see some of these in Israel today, but they tell of the refreshing that comes in Messiah's kingdom. Verses 21-24 describe the total uselessness of idols. Verses 25-29 contrasts Yahweh with the stupid and dumb idols. Yahweh is infallible and reveals His will to His children. Verses 1-10 of 1 John 3 elaborates on God's love. The beloved Apostle invites his readers to behold the extent and greatness of the Father's love. Our Sovereign has chosen to condescend and to adopt us as His children. We have entered His family at the immense cost of the sacrifice of His beloved Son. John tells his hearers that they have barely begun conceiving the depth of that love; which will be further understood when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. An appreciation of that love has a purifying effect on the disciple's life. But a failure to understand the moral imperative of Christ's laying down his life has upon the believer could lead to loose living (and then finally to a lost life). It is not the sin of weakness due to the frailty of our nature, but rather the of abandonment to sin (ie living habitually for sin), that concerns the Apostle. John has addressed the weakness of human nature in his first two chapters. To continue practicing sin is to deny the grace of the Father and the great price that was paid for our redemption. Are we the children of the world (ie the devil), or are the children of God? The fruit of our life is the evidence. From verses 11-24 we are shown that how we behave towards our brethren demonstrates our parentage. Do we live a live congruent with our claims? An excursion through the gospel of John will reveal how the case is developed from the words of our Lord Jesus Christ. The motive for the first murder in the Bible was envy progressing into hate. We must always attribute the best motives to our brethren. Slandering, or belittling, others incurs the displeasure of our Father. Cain was banished from God's presence and separated from the hope of a life with the Father. Yahweh sent His Son to lay down his own precious life to bring us into fellowship. Though we may have many a doubt (because we are weak humans) the LORD knows our motives, better than we can understand them ourselves (1 Corinthians 4:1-5). Our Father is ready, willing and able to lovingly respond to our needs and requests (see Romans 8 verses 28-39). Chapter 4 commences with the need to test whether the teachings are true ("try the spirits"), and from God. John in chapter 2 has already told his readers that the errors of the antichrist were active among the community of the disciples. One of the prime identifying features would be the belief in the Trinity, which originated in catechism 312 AD (having been debated by believers for decades prior to endorsing that view. The acceptance that the Lord Jesus Christ was part of a triune God is completely counter to the entire teaching of the Scriptures (even the Encyclopaedia Britannica admits this in its article on the Trinity). Jesus was completely a man, even though he was the Son of God. John 1 verses 1-18 tell us his beginnings were when he was born (compare Acts 10verses 38-43). Jesus came in the flesh (Hebrews 2 verses 8-18) and this was the only understanding of the first century community of faithful believers (read "The Apostles' Creed"). Believers need to listen to God and His Word, not human speculations from false teachers. From verses 7-21 we are further told how "God is love". When we love each other with a true heart and fervently it is a witness that we are God's children. The Father's love in redeeming an erring race has been seen from the time of Creation. Its pinnacle was reached in the sending of His Son to provide a ransom for us. Our Lord was able to comply with His Father's will because of their unity of love and purpose in providing a place for our acceptance on the basis of Truth believed and sins forgiven. An understanding of this and a life lived sacrificially in love and service is the only life a disciple can live. Anything else is nothing but a hypocritical lie.

The sad and disgraceful record of our two chapters is one of the 2 appendices to the time of the judges and occurred in Judges. The events described happened quite early in that 450 year period, at the epoch when the elders who had outlived Joshua were all dead. It is the prequel to the Samson record described in chapters 13-16. These chapters explain both the apostasy commenced by the tribe of Dan and the reasons why many of the faithful Danites did not move to the territory that was conquered by the ambitious and ruthless leaders of the tribe, against the laid back Zidonians. The story begins at the time of Moses' grandson, whose name was changed by a scribe in the AV, to protect the reputation and esteem in which Moses was held. However the ESV tells us in 18 verse 30 that it was Jonathan the son of Gershom the son of Moses, rather than an unnamed Levite mentioned in Judges 17verse 7. Micah's mother is a dishonest idolater who congratulates her son for confessing his theft and then his mother changes the terms of her vow. Such was the morality of those days when everyone did what was right in their own eyes ie each person was the arbiter of what was right to him, or her. Chapter 18 describes the morality of the majority of the tribe of Dan who are prepared to kidnap Jonathan the Levite. They were prepared to slaughter the enraged men of Micah's centre of idol worship. Then they slaughtered the peaceful people of a city, 17 kilometres to the east of the Zidonian coast, rather than obey the commandment of the LORD to destroy the Canaanites and take their allotted inheritance. In that place the Danites commence the apostacy that resulted in the calf worship in Dan many centuries later in the days of Jeroboam 1 of Israel.

After constraining oppression, God now declares the right of redemption. Because they are sojourners in the land, they cannot buy or sell the land permanently. When they sell the land, it can also be redeem by someone near of kin to them. This is the same word that is used with avenger of blood or the kinsman redeemer. It is a picture of Christ. Christ had to become incarnate to become a kinsman in order to redeem the world itself that was sold into sin through the work of Adam. God creates a different picture related to the land compared to cities in the land. In cities, houses can be bought and sold. It can be redeemed within a year, but after that, it is perpetually the purchasers and his heirs unless you are a Levite. The Levite can purchase their houses back whenever they want to. While houses in other walled cities remain their purchasers even through the Jubilee year, that is not the case for Levites. They receive their houses back in the Jubilee. In the laws about the houses, the picture is of heavenly Jerusalem, where, as a picture of the elect, the Levites always have a place and they will receive their place in the new heavens and the new earth.

The sad and disgraceful record of our two chapters is one of the 2 appendices to the time of the judges and occurred in Judges. The events described happened quite early in that 450 year period, at the epoch when the elders who had outlived Joshua were all dead. It is the prequel to the Samson record described in chapters 13-16. These chapters explain both the apostasy commenced by the tribe of Dan and the reasons why many of the faithful Danites did not move to the territory that was conquered by the ambitious and ruthless leaders of the tribe, against the laid back Zidonians. The story begins at the time of Moses' grandson, whose name was changed by a scribe in the AV, to protect the reputation and esteem in which Moses was held. However the ESV tells us in 18 verse 30 that it was Jonathan the son of Gershom the son of Moses, rather than an unnamed Levite mentioned in Judges 17verse 7. Micah's mother is a dishonest idolater who congratulates her son for confessing his theft and then his mother changes the terms of her vow. Such was the morality of those days when everyone did what was right in their own eyes ie each person was the arbiter of what was right to him, or her. Chapter 18 describes the morality of the majority of the tribe of Dan who are prepared to kidnap Jonathan the Levite. They were prepared to slaughter the enraged men of Micah's centre of idol worship. Then they slaughtered the peaceful people of a city, 17 kilometres to the east of the Zidonian coast, rather than obey the commandment of the LORD to destroy the Canaanites and take their allotted inheritance. In that place the Danites commence the apostacy that resulted in the calf worship in Dan many centuries later in the days of Jeroboam 1 of Israel. Isaiah 40 is the commencement of the section of the prophecy through to chapter 66 often called the ‘gospel in the Old Testament'. It begins with ‘the comfort' of God being revealed to His people. As we read this chapter the echoes of Handel's Messiah resonate in our ears. The mission of John the Baptist and the unveiling of God's glory that would be seen in Jesus the Messiah is next spoken about. Humanity's true state and redemptive need are shown, together with the only solution to this problem, to be enlivened and transformed by the Word of God, and thus be fitted for perpetuating in the coming Kingdom. That Word has the power to spiritually transform us during our time of sojourning that we may be fitted for God physically changing us at Christ's coming: Philippians 3 verse 20-21. The good news would begin in Jerusalem with the gospel being taught by a loving and caring tender shepherd: the Lord Jesus Christ. The Messiah would be supported by the prevailing and Omnipotent power of the Almighty Father, who would similarly empower all His children to be with Messiah when he comes on earth to rule. The chapter concludes with an empowering vision of what immortality will feel like . Carefully read verses 28-31 and see yourself as the recipient of divine mercy and being there when Messiah rules. The first of John's 3 letters was written between 85-98 AD by the aged and much beloved Apostle. He was one of the Lord's special 3 – Peter, James and John – who were selected by Jesus from among the 12 to witness select events and miracles. Together with his brother James, they were both fishermen and partners of Peter and Andrew in the fishing business. Their father Zebedee and his wife Salome appear to have owned the Galilean business. Salome seems to have been Mary's sister; making the two Apostles first cousins of our Lord Jesus Christ. Peter and John were paired by the Lord Jesus for various tasks including preaching. Peter may well have been the oldest of the Apostles and John the youngest. Peter died first as was prophesied by the Lord Jesus Christ around 67 AD; while John died up to 40, or more years after that time (see John 21verses 20-24). There are many internal evidences to the fact that the epistles of John and the book of Revelation were written towards the end of the first century AD (Revelation being the last writing of the New Testament; written after John's exile to the island of Patmos in 96 AD under the Emperor Trajan). John describes himself in each of the three letters as, “the Elder”. The vitally important themes of chapter 1 describe God's terms for forgiving us: 1. Confession and repentance 2. Being in Christ by baptism – the blood of Christ cleanses us 3. + Propitiation – Rom 3 : Grk hilasterion, Translated mercy seat in Hebrews. = chair, THRONE; MEETING PLACE- ROM 3 God is enthroned in Jesus Christ and “he* is the ONLY place wher God will meet with men. Verses 1-4 of chapter 1 speaks of what we heard from the beginning. Which beginning, we ask? The gospel of John tells us, 1:1 “In the beginning”. This was the birth of the Son of God – see verses 9-18 which speaks of the time when our Lord came into being (compare Acts 10 verses 35-43). They knew the Lord, ate with him, walked and talked with him. And to know our Lord was to understand His Father; and in that knowing was eternal life (John 17 verses 1-3). And the understanding of this good news (gospel) would lead to everlasting life in the kingdom of God, which will be set up at our Lord's coming (2 Timothy 4 verse 1). The sharing of this understanding brings fellowship in joining together in partaking of the bread and wine (communion means sharing together); and also joy unspeakable. Verses 5-10 deal with, “Walking in the light”. Again a comparison with chapter 1 of John's gospel record, shows the significance of light to the walk of the disciple – here Jesus is described as a light imparting source (phos – such as the light of the sun), contrasted to the light (luchnos – portable lamp) of the disciple John the Baptist. The three great themes of John's first letter are: 1) God is light; 2) God is life; and, 3) God is love. The theme that “God is light flows from the first letter 1:5-2:6. The Apostle speaks in absolutes, black and white; and so he says, that there is no hint of any shadow (cp James 1:17). Wrong behaviour, says John, is evidence of not understanding the relationship believers have with the Father and His Son. Of course believers sin through weakness, but it is not in character with them to wilfully choose a life of sin. But as long as we are endeavouring to follow in Christ's footsteps we will be forgiven upon confession of our sins. Verse 8 tells us that if we deny that our nature is biased to sin; or that we are not sinning; we are self deceived. However forgiveness is available to those in Christ who confess and forsake their sins. But, chapter 2 commences, “we have an advocate in the heavens in our Lord Jesus Christ. The word “advocate”, is a kindred word to the “comforter” (used in the gospel record in John; which the Lord was himself – and when he departed for heaven to be our priestly mediator; the Holy Spirit was sent by Jesus as another “comforter”). The word used here speaks of a defender in a court of law. The Greek word means, “I call and he runs to my side to aid me”. Our heartfelt confession and repentance means we need not fear rejection since the Lord Jesus Christ has provided a “place of introduction for us to God's mercy – the word “propitiation” (see Romans 3 verses 21-26, 8 verses 27-39; compare with Ephesians 2 verses1-22). The basis for our acceptance before God is “Jesus Christ the righteous”. The righteous forgiveness provided by the LORD induces a moral imperative to walk in the way of the Almighty (Psalm 130). Chapter 2 verses 5-2 and 29 is the connection between God being light (phos illumination as opposed to reflection); and God being love. In fact, because He is love it is essential that He be an Illuminating source to His children through the Word of God (cp 1 Timothy 2 verses 1-5; 2 Peter 3 verses 8-13). In verses 7-14 the aged Apostle restates the “new commandment” of Jesus Christ, which was new to the extent that agape love had never been demonstrated to that extent before in any man other than our Lord cp John 15 verses 9-17). The loving life of the disciple flows from an understanding mind that has been illuminated by the Word of the Father (Proverbs 4 verses 18-19). The confidence of the forgiven saint impels one upon the path of loving and self sacrificing service to others. John writes to fathers, children and young men with the confidence that he will see the fruit of the word in their lives. He tells us from verses 15-17 that the perishing and transient world consists of no more than passions dominated by “the lust of the flesh” (these are the carnal appetites which tend to control what we do); “the lust of the eyes” (principally covetousness and our insatiable desire for more); and, “the pride of life” (the importance of being someone that is always greater than another). Christ conquered all of these through the heritage of his divine Sonship; and the Word of God impelling his every thought and action (Isaiah 11 verses 1-5). Verses 18 to 27 speak of the time of the development of the Antichrist among the believers (Greek “antechristos” from “ante” meaning the substitute, or usurper; and “christos” that is the Christ, Yahweh's Anointed). False teaching is evidence of this; and was even apparent towards the end of the first century AD. In its fully blown development it turned into the apostasy of the Church described in the books of – Revelation; 1 Timothy 4:1-5; and 2 Thessalonians 2 verses 1-12 and others. The true believers would resist corruption of teaching and practice through their immersion (anointing in/by the Word of God (1 Peter 1 verses 21-25, Titus 2 verses 11-15; 3 verses 1-11). Verses 28-29 express John's assurance that such believers will continue in the true course until the Lord Jesus Christ comes.

Saint Bartholomew was one of the Twelve Apostles, a Galilean; the Gospel accounts say little more about him. It is said that, after receiving the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, he traveled in the service of the Gospel to Arabia and Persia, and brought to India a translation of the Gospel according to Matthew. Eusebius writes that one hundred years later Pantaenus, an illustrious Alexandrian scholar, found this gospel when he traveled in India. By most accounts Bartholomew ended his life in Armenia, where he met his martyrdom by crucifixion. According to many, he and Nathaniel are the same person: the Gospel accounts that speak of Bartholomew do not mention Nathaniel; and St John's Gospel,which mentions Nathanael as one of the Twelve, does not mention Bartholomew. But according to the Greek Synaxarion, Bartholomew and Simon the Zealot are one and the same.   Saint Barnabas was one of the Seventy, from Cyprus, a Levite and at one time a fellow-student with St Paul under Gamaliel. After Christ's Ascension, he led the Seventy until the Apostle Paul's conversion. He is mentioned often in the Acts of the Apostles, which describes some of his travels as a companion of St Paul. By all accounts, he was the first to preach the Gospel of Christ in Rome and in Milan. His wonder-working relics were discovered on the island of Cyprus in the time of the Emperor Zeno; on this basis the Church of Cyprus was established as an independent Church, since it had an apostolic foundation.

Have you given much thought to what God can do through you?Today my special guest is Tim Kallam, senior pastor of Mountain Brook Community Church. His message highlights the life of Barnabas through the book of Acts.From Acts 4:32-37"All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God's grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them.For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.">>Watch on YouTubeTim Kallam is the senior pastor of Mountain Brook Community Church in Birmingham, Alabama. >>Learn more about Tim and his church here

Are you truly ready to stand for Jesus, or are you looking for loopholes in God's word? In this raw and urgent message, we expose The Deadly Cost of Compromise by diving deep into the chilling story of the Levite in Judges 19. This ancient narrative isn't just history; it's a stark warning for our generation.Join us as we uncover how spiritual inaction and looking for an easy way out can lead to devastating consequences, paralleling the wickedness of Sodom and Gomorrah. We'll confront the spirit of cowardice that attempts to set up camp in our lives, our families, and our communities.This message is a powerful call to spiritual warfare: understanding that greater is He that is in us, and we are called to drive out the demonic and possess every strategic place God has given us—from our jobs to our homes, our churches, and our schools. It's time to stop making excuses and start walking in the boldness and authority given to every believer. Don't let the enemy steal your family or the next generation while you sleep.In this message, you'll learn:The shocking parallels between Judges 19 and the state of our nation today.Why spiritual inaction and compromise have a deadly price.How to identify and drive out demonic influences from your God-given territory.The critical difference between doing what's right in your own eyes versus standing firmly on God's Word.A fervent call to boldness, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to Christ, even when the world demands you bend.If you're ready to break free from the spirit of compromise and fight for what God has given you, this message is for you.0:00 The Deadly Cost of Compromise - Intro0:21 The Levite & His Unfaithful Wife (Judges 18-19)1:15 A Perilous Journey: Why They Couldn't Camp in Jerusalem1:48 Satan's Camp: Taking Back What The Devil Stole2:59 Our Authority: Spirits Are Subject Unto You!3:20 The Horror of Gibeah: A Parallel to Sodom & Gomorrah4:19 The Levite's Inaction: The Price of Cowardice5:23 No Repentance: When Man Does What's Right In His Own Eyes6:13 The Consequences: War & Deceptive Loopholes7:36 Why We Seek Loopholes: The Problem of Our Generation8:09 The Difference: Depending on God, Not Our Own Eyes8:41 Die Standing for Jesus: No Compromise9:54 Spirit is Thicker Than Carnal Blood10:40 Our Unwavering Stand: Drive Out Cowardice!#TheDeadlyCostOfCompromise #Judges19 #SpiritualWarfare #NoCompromise #ChristianMessage #Sermon #BiblicalTruth #Inaction #Cowardice #FightTheGoodFight #ProtectYourFamily #NextGeneration #BiblicalPrinciples

In the longest parsha in the Torah by verses, we continue to read about the Levite families and their responsibilities, we learn about the three tiers of the Nation's encampment, the laws of a suspected adulteress, the laws of the Nazir, the Priestly blessings, and we read a very wordy account of the gifts of […]

Today's Scripture passages are Judges 19 - 20 | Luke 10:25-37.(*Please note that today's reading includes a reference to an incidence of sexual violence.*)Read by Christina Edmondson.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

In the longest parsha in the Torah by verses, we continue to read about the Levite families and their responsibilities, we learn about the three tiers of the Nation's encampment, the laws of a suspected adulteress, the laws of the Nazir, the Priestly blessings, and we read a very wordy account of the gifts of the tribal leaders during the weeks following the Tabernacle's inauguration.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

Long strings of numbers don't typically make for riveting radio or podcasts. Many of us feel our eyes glaze over when we read seemingly meaningless batches of numbers and a series of calculations. To the untrained eye, our Parsha – with its censuses, depiction of encampment layouts, and delineation of Levite responsibilities in the transportation […]

Long strings of numbers don't typically make for riveting radio or podcasts. Many of us feel our eyes glaze over when we read seemingly meaningless batches of numbers and a series of calculations. To the untrained eye, our Parsha - with its censuses, depiction of encampment layouts, and delineation of Levite responsibilities in the transportation of the Tabernacle and its vessels - appears bereft of deep meaning. But when we examine the Parsha more deeply, we discover that the entire Parsha is all about the positioning of the individual amidst a great nation. We all have an innate desire to accomplish something unique and special. We all want to make our mark. In our Parsha we learned about about the uniqueness of each individual and how they can find their role, their letter in Torah.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –This Parsha Podcast is dedicated in loving memory and leilui nishmas Richard Reingold, Nattan Mordechai ben Henschel Reuven, who passed away suddenly this week. Richard was a dear friend of ours, a very special soul with an ever present smile and upbeat attitude. May his soul be elevated in Heaven.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

October 7th shattered more than Israel's security - it's challenging core Haredi beliefs. In the wake of October 7th, a seismic shift is occurring within Israel's ultra-Orthodox community. The long-standing exemption from military service for Haredi yeshiva students is facing unprecedented scrutiny – not just from secular Israelis, but from within the Haredi world itself. This week's Torah portion, Bamidbar (Numbers), offers a timely lens through which to examine this complex issue. As we explore the biblical census and military draft, we uncover surprising parallels to today's debate over Haredi enlistment. Key Takeaways The Torah provides precedent for both military service and exemptions Current Haredi exemptions stem from out-dated post-Holocaust efforts to rebuild yeshivas Internal voices are now challenging the status quo of Haredi non-service Timestamps [00:00] – Opening statement: The Torah doesn't protect Israel? A challenge to traditional exemptions. [01:00] – Introduction to the episode and its biblical context in Parshat Bamidbar. [02:57] – Discussion begins on modern military service issues in Israel and relevance of the parsha. [04:00] – Examination of Torah's census and the military obligation for Israelites over 20. [06:00] – Introduction of the Levite exemption and its relevance to today's arguments. [10:59] – Broader discussion on deferments and biblical precedents for military exemptions. [12:34] – The pivotal 1998 Supreme Court case on yeshiva deferments and its historical context. [17:59] – Debate on exposure and risks in army life for Haredim and their integration challenges. [21:20] – Spotlight on Rabbi David Leibel and his reformative stance within the Haredi community. [30:59] – Reflection on societal impact, army service as potential transformation for struggling youth. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/651245 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/05/28/haredim-a-path-forward/

Parshat Behar-Bechukotai: On the mount / By my regulation   Torah: Leviticus 25:1-27:34 Haftarah: Jeremiah 16:19-17:14

When you serve the Lord, Nancy says you're a lot like a Levite in the Old Testament. You've been entrusted with treasure to steward, and you have a God who promises to help you bear all the burdens of ministry. He is with you!

We kickstart the Book of Numbers with a census of the twelve tribes of Israel – not including the tribe of Levi who is counted independently – conducted by Moses, Aaron, and the most distinguished leaders of said tribes. Subsequently, we read about the banners of the tribes and their assigned encampments, the transference of the sanctity of the firstborn to the Levites, and the designated role of each of the Levite families.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann Levite and the Concubine: Darkness and Defenseless, Part 2 Series: Judges Scripture: Judges 19 Episode: 1262

Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann Levite and the Concubine: Darkness and Defenseless, Part 1 Series: Judges Scripture: Judges 19 Episode: 1261

Send us a text The Levite in chapter 20 summons all of Israel, and they respond. His words lead them to rise against their own kin. But where is God in this story? What was His will for them? Was this truly the best way to address the grievous wrong done to the Levite's concubine?Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Website: ESM.USPastor Mark BiltzDownload Notes:https://esm.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/05.17.25-Congregational-Notes-2.pdf-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Torah Portion:פָּרָּ שַׁ ת אֱמֹורEmor“Say”Leviticus 21:1-24:23Ezekiel 44:15-31Matthew 26:59-66Leviticus 21:1,2 And the LORD said to Moses, Speak to thepriests the sons of Aaron, and say unto them, There shall nonebe defiled for the dead among his people: except for his relativesthat are near to him: for his mother, for his father, for his son, forhis daughter, for his brother.Luke 10:30-32 Yeshua said, A certain man was going downfrom Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who bothstripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead.And by chance a certain priest was going down that way: Andwhen he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And in likemanner a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him,passed by on the other side.2 Samuel 4:4 And Jonathan, Saul's son, had a son that was lameof his feet. He was five years old when the tidings came of Sauland Jonathan out of Jezreel, and his nurse took him up, and fled:And it came to pass, as she made haste to flee, that he fell, andbecame lame. And his name was Mephibosheth.

This month, we are anchoring our huddles in the heart of worship—what it means to keep the flame burning. Not just musically, but spiritually. We're not just preparing songs—we're preparing a place for the presence of God to dwell.  You Are Called – You Are a Levite Scripture Reference: 1 Chronicles 23:5-6    •   David appointed 4,000 Levites as musicians to minister before the Lord.   Worship leaders are not just singers or musicians—they are called, set apart, and anointed for ministry.    •   The Levites were chosen to carry the presence of God, just as modern-day worshippers stand before both the people and God. Lessons from David and the Ark of the Covenant: 1. David prepared a place for the Presence of God to rest. 2. The Ark was carried on the shoulders of the Levites—the weight of responsibility was on them. 3. A leader was appointed over the singers and musicians. 4. The Levites stopped every six steps to sacrifice to the Lord, showing the priority of worship.    •   Worship is not a performance; it is a priestly duty, a ministry unto the Lord.    •   David chose a “skillful” worshipper to lead the singers and musicians. 1 Samuel 13:14    •   “The Lord has sought out a man after His own heart.” Impartation:    •   David, though not a Levite, lived as one—his life was marked by worship.    •   He was from the tribe of Judah, which means praise.    •   David's worship was not about talent, but about intimacy with God, shaped by trials, brokenness, and deep love for the Lord.    •   God is seeking worshippers with fully devoted hearts, not just skilled musicians. David's Example of Worship Leadership:    •   David's worship sent demons running—his anointing mattered more than his talent.    •   He raised skillful worshippers, but in Hebrew, “skillful” means “discerning one.”       •   Worship went from “worshiping with all their might” to “discerning worship.”       •   It's not about how good it sounds, but whether it moves the heart of God.       •   Are we more focused on moving crowds than moving Him?    •   Worship leaders should seek God's direction for each set list and service.       •   Ask Him: “Is this what You want from us today?”    •   True worship is about surrender—your heart must bow before your hands play a note or your mouth sings a word.    •   God desires to sit as King on the throne of our hearts. A Worshipper's Heart:    •   A heart after God    •   A heart that chases God    •   A heart that longs for His presence    •   A heart that builds an altar for Him    •   A heart that fears the Lord in awe, honor, and humility  •   Leviticus 6:13 – “The fire must be kept burning on the altar continuously; it must not go out.”  •   The fire on the altar represents passion, devotion, and commitment to God.    •   In the Old Testament, priests tended to the fire daily—it was never allowed to go out.    •   Worshippers must tend to the fire in their own hearts.       •   If the fire dies in you, it will not ignite in others.    •   Worship is not just about what happens on the platform—it's about a daily life of devotion. Three Ways to Keep the Fire Burning: 1. Daily Surrender & Devotion       •   Spend time in God's presence beyond rehearsals and services.       •   Worship in private before leading in public. 2. Pure Motives & Humility       •   Worship is for God's glory, not ours.       •   Stay humble and keep your heart aligned with why you do what you do. 3. Continual Hunger for His Presence       •   Never settle. Keep pressing in.       •   Stay desperate for more of Him.   •   Worship is more than music—it is a priestly calling and a lifestyle of devotion.   DON'T FORGET TO SHARE THIS PODCAST AND SUBSCRIBE!! 

Send us a textThis chapter in Scripture is not suitable for young children so listen without young ears around.Judges 19 presents a challenging and deeply troubling narrative. Erika guides us through this chapter, shedding light on how events unfold to result in the grievous harm inflicted on a woman by her own husband and the community around him.The narrator breaks through at the end of the chapter with a call to Israel that we would do well to heed as well.  Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

A Godly Influence Exodus 2:1-10 2 Now a man from the house of Levi went and took as his wife a Levite woman. 2 The woman conceived and bore a son, and when she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him three months. 3 When she could hide him no longer, she took for him a basket made of bulrushes and daubed it with bitumen and pitch. She put the child in it and placed it among the reeds by the river bank. 4 And his sister stood at a distance to know what would be done to him. 5 Now the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river, while her young women walked beside the river. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her servant woman, and she took it. 6 When she opened it, she saw the child, and behold, the baby was crying. She took pity on him and said, “This is one of the Hebrews' children.” 7 Then his sister said to Pharaoh's daughter, “Shall I go and call you a nurse from the Hebrew women to nurse the child for you?” 8 And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, “Go.” So the girl went and called the child's mother. 9 And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him. 10 When the child grew older, she brought him to Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. She named him Moses, “Because,” she said, “I drew him out of the water.” I. A Godly Influence Provides II. A Godly Influence Nurtures III. A Godly Influence Loves

“What To Do When You Don't Know What To Do” May 11, 2025 2 Chronicles 20:1-23 Rev. Bill Vogler  Sermon Application [file]    ----more---- 2 Chronicles 20:1 After this the Moabites and Ammonites, and with them some of the Meunites, came against Jehoshaphat for battle. [2] Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A great multitude is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, Engedi). [3] Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. [4] And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord. [5] And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court, [6] and said, “O Lord, God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you. [7] Did you not, our God, drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel, and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham your friend? [8] And they have lived in it and have built for you in it a sanctuary for your name, saying, [9] ‘If disaster comes upon us, the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we will stand before this house and before you—for your name is in this house—and cry out to you in our affliction, and you will hear and save.' [10] And now behold, the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir, whom you would not let Israel invade when they came from the land of Egypt, and whom they avoided and did not destroy— [11] behold, they reward us by coming to drive us out of your possession, which you have given us to inherit. [12] O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” [13] Meanwhile all Judah stood before the Lord, with their little ones, their wives, and their children. [14] And the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, son of Benaiah, son of Jeiel, son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, in the midst of the assembly. [15] And he said, “Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the Lord to you, ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's. [16] Tomorrow go down against them. Behold, they will come up by the ascent of Ziz. You will find them at the end of the valley, east of the wilderness of Jeruel. [17] You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.' Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you.” [18] Then Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell down before the Lord, worshiping the Lord. [19] And the Levites, of the Kohathites and the Korahites, stood up to praise the Lord, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice. [20] And they rose early in the morning and went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. And when they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Hear me, Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be established; believe his prophets, and you will succeed.” [21] And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed those who were to sing to the Lord and praise him in holy attire, as they went before the army, and say, “Give thanks to the Lord, for his steadfast love endures forever.” [22] And when they began to sing and praise, the Lord set an ambush against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah, so that they were routed. [23] For the men of Ammon and Moab rose against the inhabitants of Mount Seir, devoting them to destruction, and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, they all helped to destroy one another.      I. Recognize Our Weakness    II. Turn Our Eyes to God's Character   III. Remember God's Faithfulness in the Past   IV. Trust God's Promise for the Present    V. Move Forward in Faith, Not Fear

At this point in the narrative of Judges, the Lord is noticeably absent from the life of Israel. It seems like nobody knows how any of this covenant stuff works, even in the slightest. It becomes so bad that a Levite is involved in a scenario almost identical to that of Sodom & Gomorrah, only this time, those who are intent on sexually assaulting the town's visitors are successful because the Levite betrays his concubine. Though he is not supposed to touch a dead body, he then mutilates her corpse just to make a point. Time and again the author captures this darkness by stating that there was “no king in Israel” for Israel had rejected their Lord.Judges 19 - 1:02 . Judges 20 - 8:06 . Judges 21 - 17:09 .  :::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

Send us a textActs 4:32-37Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.Support the show

Send us a textSamson did what was right in his own eyes.Now we will watch as the tribe of Dan does what is right in their own eyes.  When you read this chapter, it's easy to think they are doing what God wants because we see and read about religious items and God's name being used....but it's time to look deeper.  It's time to connect some dots in this story to see what's really going on.  This story has a surprising twist at the end as well.   Our website - www.thecontextandcolorofthebible.comWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeWe are on Pinterest - The Context and Color of the BibleMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

At this point in the narrative of Judges, the Lord is surprisingly absent from the life of Israel. It seems like nobody knows how any of this covenant stuff works, even in the slightest. It becomes so bad that a Levite is involved in a scenario almost identical to that of Sodom & Gomorrah, only this time, those who are intent on sexually assaulting the town's visitors are successful because the Levite betrays his concubine. Though he is not supposed to touch a dead body, he then mutilates her corpse just to make a point. Time and again the author captures this darkness by stating that there was “no king in Israel” for Israel had rejected their Lord.Judges 17 - 1:14 . Judges 18 - 3:34 . Judges 19 - 10:26 . Judges 20 - 17:19 . Judges 21 - 25:51 .  :::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

Psalm 134 is a song that would have been sung by worshippers as they were leaving the temple in Jerusalem and are blessing the Levite workers who remain there readying the temple for the next day. In the Soccer Psalm version from my recent book, I've imagined Psalm 134 to come out like a song […]

Today's daf is sponsored for a refua shleima for my uncle, Naftali ben Henna. Rabbi Meir and Rabbi Yehuda disagree about two issues regarding the accidental murderer - do they pay rent/taxes to the Levites/refuge city; when they are released, can they reassume their previous position in their city? Rav Kahana limits the first debate to the six refuge cities, while Rava limits the debate to the other forty-two Levite cities, but explains that in the six major refuge cities, all agree that no payment is necessary. The third chapter lists all those who receive lashes. The Mishna categorizies them. Those who are liable for karet for forbidden relations receive lashes, if they do not also receive a death penalty by the court. If a kohen marries a woman he is forbidden to marry, they both receives lashes. More prohibitions where one receives karet for violating it intentionally also receive lashes, such as, a impure person who enters the Temple or ate sacrificial meat, one who eats forbidden fats of an animal or the blood, and several other prohibtions. One who eats non kosher meat or untithed produce also receives lashes. The Mishna follows the position of Rabbi Akiva that only prohibitions that are punishable by karet only are also punishable by lashes. However, Rabbi Yishmael holds that even those punishable by death in the hands of the court are punishable by lashes. Rabbi Yitzchak holds that none of these cases obligate one in lashes. What is the root of the debate between Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi Yishmael?  https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/09/18/the-sorrow-and-the-shame-of-the-accidental-killer

The ChristiansApril 13, 2025 • Greg Pinkner • Acts 11:19–30This Sunday, Greg continues our series on the Book of Acts. In Acts 11, we see the gospel spreading beyond the Jews to the Gentiles, especially in Antioch, where believers—fleeing persecution—boldly preached Christ across cultural lines. This moment marks a massive turning point in church history, as Peter's vision and Cornelius's conversion clear the way for the ceremonial law to be set aside, opening the door for all people to receive the gospel. Barnabas, a Levite and encourager, is sent to Antioch, and he brings Paul to help teach and establish the growing church—where believers are first called “Christians.” As more Gentiles believe, tension arises with Jewish Christians who still cling to the law, leading Paul to confront Peter's hypocrisy when he withdraws from Gentile fellowship. The message is clear: the gospel is for all people, and the church must go out—just as Palm Sunday represents people coming in, Antioch becomes the mirror image, sending God's people out with the good news to the whole world.WEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

The ChristiansApril 13, 2025 • Greg Pinkner • Acts 11:19–30This Sunday, Greg continues our series on the Book of Acts. In Acts 11, we see the gospel spreading beyond the Jews to the Gentiles, especially in Antioch, where believers—fleeing persecution—boldly preached Christ across cultural lines. This moment marks a massive turning point in church history, as Peter's vision and Cornelius's conversion clear the way for the ceremonial law to be set aside, opening the door for all people to receive the gospel. Barnabas, a Levite and encourager, is sent to Antioch, and he brings Paul to help teach and establish the growing church—where believers are first called “Christians.” As more Gentiles believe, tension arises with Jewish Christians who still cling to the law, leading Paul to confront Peter's hypocrisy when he withdraws from Gentile fellowship. The message is clear: the gospel is for all people, and the church must go out—just as Palm Sunday represents people coming in, Antioch becomes the mirror image, sending God's people out with the good news to the whole world.WEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

In this Bible Story, some men from the tribe of Benjamin brutally rape the concubine of a Levite. As a message to the people of Israel, the Levite tore his concubine into pieces, and spread her limbs to all the twelve tribes of Israel. This story is inspired by Judges 19. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Judges 19:24 from the King James Version.Episode 71: Israel continues its fall into depravity and even the holiest of people did whatever they wanted. A Levite, a minister of God, took on a concubine, who eventually left him. After a while, he left his home in Ephraim to go to Bethlehem and fetch his concubine. But whenever he arrived, the woman's father kept finding ways to keep him there at their house. When they were finally able to escape, the Levite decided to press on until the land of Benjamin. But little did he know, that Gibeah had become the new Sodom.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, the tribe of Dan steals idols from the house of Micah, and siege an innocent village. The tribe of Dan found a home at the expense of others, and Israel continued to sin before God. This story is inspired by Judges 17-18. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Judges 18:6 from the King James Version.Episode 70: Israel was descending into madness, right and wrong went out the door and everyone did what they wanted. From the hill country of Ephraim an Israelite named Micah stole silver from his mother. But when he returned it his mother made him an idol out of it and it became one of his household gods. One day, a Levite, who was not content serving in the tabernacle, decided to look for work elsewhere and Micah, seeing him wandering, appointed him to be the priest of his house thinking that God would bless him for this. But God will not bless foolishness just because we place his name on it. Micah ended up losing the Levite and his idols. And their sin became the sin of an entire tribe.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we follow two stories of betrayal with Samson and Delilah and Micah and the Levite. Fr. Mike also explains why Judges is the best example of how God can use broken people to do his will. The reading are Judges 16-18 and Psalm 147. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.