Podcasts about levites

Garth Heckman The David Alliance TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com    The tithe, which literally means "a tenth," was a central part of the giving system for the Israelites in the Old Testament.However, the requirements were more complex than simply a single 10% tithe. Most scholars believe the Israelites were commanded to give three different tithes, totaling more than 10%. The three main tithes were: The Levite Tithe: This was an annual tithe of one-tenth (10%) of all agricultural produce and livestock. This tithe was given to the Levites, who, because they had no land of their own, were responsible for the work of the tabernacle and later the temple. The Levites, in turn, gave a tenth of what they received to the priests. (Numbers 18:21-28; Leviticus 27:30-32). The Festival Tithe: This was a second annual tithe of 10% that was to be used by the Israelites themselves to celebrate the yearly feasts in Jerusalem. They were to spend this tithe on food and drink, including "cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish," to celebrate before the Lord. (Deuteronomy 14:22-26). The Poor Tithe: Every third and sixth year of the seven-year cycle, a third tithe was collected and stored in local towns. This tithe was for the support of the Levites, the foreigners, the fatherless, and the widows in the community.(Deuteronomy 14:28-29; Deuteronomy 26:12). When combined, these requirements mean that the Israelites were giving a total of approximately 23.3% of their income every year (10% to the Levites + 10% for festivals + 3.3% for the poor on average over the three-year cycle). This was a significant financial commitment and was in addition to other offerings and sacrifices they were commanded to make. It's also important to note that these tithes were primarily based on agricultural produce and livestock, not on monetary income. The problem is it all starts in the heart with the foundation of “what is the least I can give”.  Can I give only 10%? Can I hate my brother just a little for ripping me off? Can I lust over a woman if she is dressed provocative and Im not married? Can I make business plans on my own without getting clearance from God?  All of these questions are resoundingly a “all or nothing”. I don't know how my wife would feel if I asked her how much do I actually have to be married to you?  The reason God demands all in is because we can't do ALL without him. The OT was based on the law and rules… we can keep rules… not that we want to, but we can. Heck we will even make up more rules… But when God demands all or nothing… it leaves us realizing we can't do life, eternity, spirituality or love in all things without him. There are no other options than total reliance on God. And that my friend is a good thing! 

Vivian Bricker challenges us to take inventory of the things we may have unknowingly placed above God. Drawing from Exodus 32, she explores how even good things—like careers, relationships, or personal goals—can become modern-day idols if they consume our attention and affection. With personal reflection and biblical truth, this devotional reminds us that true worship belongs to God alone, and that letting go of false gods leads us back into alignment with His purpose. ✨ Highlights How modern-day idols aren’t golden calves, but often good things misprioritized Why worry and anxiety can subtly become false gods in our lives The spiritual cost of putting anything above God, even unintentionally A biblical reflection on Exodus 32 and God’s response to Israel’s disobedience Encouragement to surrender idols and return to wholehearted devotion

Numbers 8

Nehemiah 8:9 (KJV) And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.

Pastor Dorrell examines Numbers chapter 3, exploring the divine organization of Israel around the Tabernacle and the specific role given to the Levites. This detailed structure highlights a crucial principle: God must be the center of our lives. Using the Levites' duty to guard the Tabernacle and the sobering account of Nadab and Abihu offering "strange fire," this message challenges the modern tendency toward a casual, self-styled faith. It calls us to consider how we approach God, urging a return to reverent, thoughtful, and sincere worship that is rooted in the truth of God's holiness, not our own comfort or preference.Eastland is a Place to BelongEastland Baptist Church is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We are a welcoming and close-knit family community that loves to care for each other through the Church. We strongly believe in loving and supporting each other and our neighbors. Our members don't just attend our Church; they feel a strong sense of belonging.Join Us Find service times and our location at https://www.eastlandbaptist.org/join. Connect with UsWebsite: https://www.eastlandbaptist.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/eastlandbaptisttulsaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastlandbaptistTo support the ministry of Eastland Baptist Church, tap here: https://www.eastlandbaptist.org/give.

Well, we are going to continue our chapter that we began last week, and I'm speaking about the book of Numbers in chapter eight, and we see that God is working mightily with a group of people known as the Levites. And the term Levi is a Hebrew word which relates to coming alongside. It's a word of service, a word of escorting the priests in order that they might assist them.To donate please visit us at:https://loveisrael.org/donate/Checks may be sent to:LoveIsrael.org

Well, we are going to continue our chapter that we began last week, and I'm speaking about the book of Numbers in chapter eight, and we see that God is working mightily with a group of people known as the Levites. And the term Levi is a Hebrew word which relates to coming alongside. It's a word of service, a word of escorting the priests in order that they might assist them.To donate please visit us at:https://loveisrael.org/donate/Checks may be sent to:LoveIsrael.org

The Cities of Refuge, and the division of the land for the Levites.

You can believe the correct things and still be far from God.The questions we ask give us the answers we get. The lawyer was asking the wrong question.Jews as a whole were commonly divided into three groups:PriestsLevitesIsraelitesSamaritans:-Once part of the Hebrew people-Scattered by the Assyrian Empire, intermarried-Considered half-breeds by the Jews-Sided against Jews in the Maccabean Wars-Lots of conflict, despised and rejected by JewsOld question: Who is my neighbor? New question: What kind of a neighbor am I?The lawyer's knowledge was flawless. But he had very little mercy.How do we get our softness back?Jesus is the True Good Samaritan. Like the Samaritan, he:-Was of mixed descent-Was despised and rejected-Came near to us when he did not have to-Carried us when we could not carry ourselves-Paid for us when we had nothing-Is coming back

And these are the countries which the children of Israel inherited in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel, distributed for inheritance to them.JOS.14:2 By lot was their inheritance, as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses, for the nine tribes, and for the half tribe.JOS.14:3 For Moses had given the inheritance of two tribes and an half tribe on the other side Jordan: but unto the Levites he gave none inheritance among them.JOS.14:4 For the children of Joseph were two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim: therefore they gave no part unto the Levites in the land, save cities to dwell in, with their suburbs for their cattle and for their substance.JOS.14:5 As the LORD commanded Moses, so the children of Israel did, and they divided the land.JOS.14:6 Then the children of Judah came unto Joshua in Gilgal: and Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite said unto him, Thou knowest the thing that the LORD said unto Moses the man of God concerning me and thee in Kadeshbarnea.JOS.14:7 Forty years old was I when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadeshbarnea to espy out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart.JOS.14:8 Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly followed the LORD my God.JOS.14:9 And Moses sware on that day, saying, Surely the land whereon thy feet have trodden shall be thine inheritance, and thy children's for ever, because thou hast wholly followed the LORD my God.JOS.14:10 And now, behold, the LORD hath kept me alive, as he said, these forty and five years, even since the LORD spake this word unto Moses, while the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old.JOS.14:11 As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in.JOS.14:12 Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the LORD will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.JOS.14:13 And Joshua blessed him, and gave unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh Hebron for an inheritance.JOS.14:14 Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite unto this day, because that he wholly followed the LORD God of Israel.JOS.14:15 And the name of Hebron before was Kirjatharba; which Arba was a great man among the Anakims. And the land had rest from war.

God's community makes God's Word a priority. The Hebrews just finished rebuilding the temple and restoring the wall. They gathered as Ezra read the Word, as the Levites read and explained the Word and as Ezra studied the Word with the leadership (religious and family). Worship, praise, confession, tears and joy erupted. God's Word changes our lives... but the lack of listening plummets us quickly to a life of pain and misery. Pastor Rick taught this lession to CrossPoint Church.

If there be found among you, within any of your gates which the Lord your God gives you, man or woman, that has worked wickedness in the sight of the Lord your God, in transgressing his covenant, And has gone and served other gods, and worshipped them, either the sun, or moon, or any of the host of heaven, which I have not commanded; And it be told you, and you have heard of it, and inquired diligently, and, behold, it be true, and the thing certain, that such abomination is worked in Israel: Then shall you bring forth that man or that woman, which have committed that wicked thing, to your gates, even that man or that woman, and shall stone them with stones, till they die. At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death. The hands of the witnesses shall be first on him to put him to death, and afterward the hands of all the people. So you shall put the evil away from among you.Deuteronomy 17:2–7 AKJVThe priests the Levites, and all the tribe of Levi, shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel: they shall eat the offerings of the Lord made by fire, and his inheritance. Therefore shall they have no inheritance among their brethren: the Lord is their inheritance, as he hath said unto them. And this shall be the priest’s due from the people, from them that offer a sacrifice, whether it be ox or sheep; and they shall give unto the priest the shoulder, and the two cheeks, and the maw. The firstfruit also of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the first of the fleece of thy sheep, shalt thou give him. For the Lord thy God hath chosen him out of all thy tribes, to stand to minister in the name of the Lord, him and his sons for ever.Deuteronomy 18:1-5Hello everyone and welcome to the Christian Educational Ministries Weekend Bible Study. It is good to be with you and we thank you for being there and allowing us to make this weekly service possible.Tonight we are pleased to bring you the teachings of Ronald L. Dart and part nine of his thoughtfully detailed study on the book of Deuteronomy, which teaches us to know God, love God and obey God.

You well, the focus of the passage of scripture that we're going to be looking at in this time of study is the menorah. And we see something. We see a connection between the lighting of the menorah and also the setting apart of the Levites for service. Now, remember, we had just dedicated the tabernacle, that tent of meeting for worship. To donate please visit us at:https://loveisrael.org/donate/Checks may be sent to:LoveIsrael.org

You well, the focus of the passage of scripture that we're going to be looking at in this time of study is the menorah. And we see something. We see a connection between the lighting of the menorah and also the setting apart of the Levites for service. Now, remember, we had just dedicated the tabernacle, that tent of meeting for worship.To donate please visit us at:https://loveisrael.org/donate/Checks may be sent to:LoveIsrael.org

In Worship: The Labor of Love, Pastor Will Ford teaches that work is more than a task—it's worship. Drawing from the Hebrew word avodah, which means work, worship, and service, he illustrates how daily labor was always intended to be an act of devotion to God. Since the Garden of Eden, man was created to cultivate in partnership with God, but after the Fall, humanity began working for significance instead of from significance. Jesus redeemed this curse, restoring work as a labor of love. Pastor Will emphasizes that excellence in work honors God, and when we offer our best, even mundane jobs become sacred. Drawing parallels between the Levites and modern believers, he charges Christians to carry God's glory into every sphere—business, politics, creativity, and culture. Through biblical insight and inspiring stories of believers like Madam C.J. Walker and William Merrill Vorhies, the message commissions every Christian to see their vocation as a calling, their workplace as a ministry, and their work as worship.

God gave the Levites instructions to teach the people, His laws and His judgments, and His statutes. But God was angry then and also now because spiritual leaders were not and are not doing their assignments appropriately, which provokes God to anger which causes Him to release His judgments, His fury, His anger, and His wrath in the land. There must be true repentance, and genuine return to God, to live by His instructions.

https://youtu.be/aoNGtNsXcOQ Audio: Play the audio class Download: Download this MP3 Topics: Morning Prayers Follow-Along Text: אָנָּא, בְּכֹֽחַ גְּדֻלַּת יְמִינְךָ, תַּתִּיר צְרוּרָה. (אב"ג ית"ץ)קַבֵּל רִנַּת עַמְּךָ, שַׂגְּבֵֽנוּ, טַהֲרֵֽנוּ, נוֹרָא. (קר"ע שט"ן)נָא גִבּוֹר, דּוֹרְשֵׁי יִחוּדְךָ, כְּבָבַת שָׁמְרֵם. (נג"ד יכ"ש)בָּרְכֵם, טַהֲרֵם, רַחֲמֵי צִדְקָתְךָ תָּמִיד גָּמְלֵם. (בט"ר צת"ג)חֲסִין קָדוֹשׁ, בְּרוֹב טוּבְךָ נַהֵל עֲדָתֶֽךָ. (חק"ב טנ"ע)יָחִיד, גֵּאֶה, לְעַמְּךָ פְּנֵה, זוֹכְרֵי קְדֻשָּׁתֶֽךָ. (יג"ל פז"ק)שַׁוְעָתֵֽנוּ קַבֵּל, וּשְׁמַע צַעֲקָתֵֽנוּ, יוֹדֵֽעַ תַּעֲלוּמוֹת. (שק"ו צי"ת)בָּרוּךְ שֵׁם כְּבוֹד מַלְכוּתוֹ לְעוֹלָם וָעֶד:רִבּוֹן הָעוֹלָמִים, אַתָּה צִוִּיתָֽנוּ לְהַקְרִיב קָרְבַּן הַתָּמִיד בְּמוֹעֲדוֹ, וּלְהַקְטִיר הַקְּטֹֽרֶת בִּזְמַנָּהּ,וְלִהְיוֹת הַכֹּהֲנִים בַּעֲבוֹדָתָם, וּלְוִיִּם בְּדוּכָנָם, וְיִשְׂרָאֵל בְּמַעֲמָדָם,וְעַתָּה בַּעֲוֹנוֹתֵֽינוּ, חָרַב בֵּית הַמִּקְדָּשׁ וּבֻטַּל הַתָּמִיד וְהַקְּטֹֽרֶת,וְאֵין לָֽנוּ לֹא כֹהֵן בַּעֲבוֹדָתוֹ, וְלֹא לֵוִי בְּדוּכָנוֹ, וְלֹא יִשְׂרָאֵל בְּמַעֲמָדוֹלָכֵן יְהִי רָצוֹן מִלְּפָנֶֽיךָ יְיָ אֱלֹהֵֽינוּ וֵאלֹהֵי אֲבוֹתֵֽינוּ,שֶׁיְּהֵא שִֽׂיחַ שִׂפְתוֹתֵֽינוּ חָשׁוּב וּמְקֻבָּל לְפָנֶֽיךָ,כְּאִלּוּ הִקְרַֽבְנוּ קָרְבַּן הַתָּמִיד בְּמוֹעֲדוֹ וְעָמַֽדְנוּ עַל מַעֲמָדוֹ, וְהִקְטַֽרְנוּ הַקְּטֹֽרֶת בִּזְמַנָּהּ, כְּמָה שֶׁנֶּאֱמַרוּנְשַׁלְּמָה פָרִים שְׂפָתֵֽינוּוְנֶאֱמַר: זֹאת הַתּוֹרָה לָעֹלָה לַמִּנְחָה וְלַחַטָּאת וְלָאָשָׁם וְלַמִּלּוּאִים וּלְזֶֽבַח הַשְּׁלָמִיםWe entreat You, with the great power of Your right hand, release the bound.Accept the supplication of Your people; fortify us, purify us, O Awesome One.Please, O Mighty One, guard those who seek Your oneness, as one guards the apple of the eye.Bless them, purify them; bestow upon them always Your merciful righteousness.Mighty and Holy One, in Your abundant goodness, guide Your congregation.Unique and Exalted One, turn to Your people, who recall Your holiness.Accept our entreaty; hear our cry, Knower of hidden things.Blessed be the name of His glorious kingdom forever and ever.Master of the worlds, You commanded us to offer the daily sacrifice at itsappointed time and to offer the incense at its designated time,with the kohanim performing their service, the Levites [singing]on their platform, and the Yisraelites attending [the sacrifices].But now, because of our sins, the Beis HaMikdash was destroyed and the daily offering and the incense-offering were disrupted.We have neither a kohen performing his service, nor a Levite on his platform, nor a Yisraelite attending.Therefore, may it be Your will, God, our Lord and God of our fathers, that the utterance of our lips be considered and accepted by Youas if we had offered the daily sacrifice at its appointed time, stood in attendance for it, and offered the incense at its designated time, as it is written:“We will compensate for [the sacrifice of] bulls by [the prayers of] our lips.”And it is said, This is the law for the burnt offering, for the meal offering, for the sin offering, for the guilt offering, for the consecration offering, and the sacrifice of the peace offering. PreviousClass 067: Abbaye Hava Mesader More in this section Class 067: Abbaye Hava Mesader Class 066: Hashem Tzevakot Ashrei, Hashem Hoshia, Minchat Yehuda

There's a spiritual diet every Christian needs—and most of us are skipping meals. In this powerful message, we break down the three daily essentials that fuel your walk with God: worship, prayer, and time in the Word. T We dive deep into Malachi 3:3 and explore how God is the Refiner and Purifier, calling His people—including today's believers—back to offering Him our best, not our leftovers. From the corrupted offerings of the Levites to the real meaning of inheritance in God, this message is raw, convicting, and filled with biblical truth.

SHOW NOTES   In Podcast Episode 333, “Accountability Can Come from Unexpected People,” Kim discusses the importance of accepting Godly accountability and providing Godly accountability. Sometimes our accountability may come from the younger generation or those we have mentored.   Our focal passage for this episode is 2 Kings 12:1-8, with 6-7 as the focal verses:   6 But by the twenty-third year of Joash's reign, the priests still had not repaired the Temple. 7 So King Joash called for Jehoiada and the other priests and asked them, “Why haven't you repaired the Temple? Don't use any more money for your own needs. From now on, it must all be spent on Temple repairs.”     WEEKLY ENGAGEMENT FEATURE:   Who holds you accountable in your Christian walk? Who do you hold accountable?   Additional Resources and Scriptures:   4 At one point Joash decided to repair and restore the Temple of the Lord. 5 He summoned the priests and Levites and gave them these instructions: “Go to all the towns of Judah and collect the required annual offerings, so that we can repair the Temple of your God. Do not delay!” But the Levites did not act immediately. (2 Chronicles 24:4-5) How Do I Know if it's God Speaking or Just My Own Thoughts? CCB Podcast Season 10 Episode 11 - Go to 12:58 EMAIL — encouragingothersinlovingjesus@gmail.com X - https://x.com/eoinlovingjesus?s=21&t=YcRjZQUpvP7FrJmm7Pe1hg INSTAGRAM -  https://www.instagram.com/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus” YouTube Channel: Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/@EncouragingOthersInLovingJesus   I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST.   RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Kings PODCASTS: “The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume” “Christ-Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Kings” by Tony Merida “The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God's Kingdom Agenda” “Life Application Study Bible” “The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary “The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors) Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): Old Testament, 2004, by Kenneth L. Barker, John R. Kohlenberger, III.     "Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:   Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.   This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.   In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.   If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week.   Remember, “It's Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”   If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.     National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline   988   https://988lifeline.org/   Reference: Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.   Podcast recorded through Cleanfeed and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack, entitled “Outlaw John McShane” was obtained from Pixabay.         The HIDDEN Episodes:  If you can't access episodes 1-50 on your podcast app (the podcast was then entitled "A Country Girl in a City World - Loving Jesus"), you can get all the content at my Podbean site at https://acountrygirlinacityworldlovingjesus.podbean.com/  

In this vibrant episode of Parsha and Prose, Rabbi Gemara joins me from a ma'amud (bomb shelter) in Israel to explore the twin parshiot of Matot and Masei. Before delving into key themes—oaths, the 2½ tribes settling east of the Jordan, the 42 encampments of the Children of Israel, and the Levites' landless status—we discuss Rabbi Gemara's recent experiences in Israel. With infectious enthusiasm, he shares the dynamic energy he encountered in late-night restaurants and intimate shteibelech (small synagogues). Rabbi Gemara also reflects on the Israeli public's resilience amid the ongoing war in Gaza and tensions with Iran, highlighting their unwavering hope and determination to thrive. This episode captures the enduring strength of the Jewish people and the profound beauty of the Land of Israel. Am Yisrael Chai.

In this vibrant episode of Parsha and Prose, Rabbi Gemara joins me from a ma'amud (bomb shelter) in Israel to explore the twin parshiot of Matot and Masei. Before delving into key themes—oaths, the 2½ tribes settling east of the Jordan, the 42 encampments of the Children of Israel, and the Levites' landless status—we discuss Rabbi Gemara's recent experiences in Israel. With infectious enthusiasm, he shares the dynamic energy he encountered in late-night restaurants and intimate shteibelech (small synagogues). Rabbi Gemara also reflects on the Israeli public's resilience amid the ongoing war in Gaza and tensions with Iran, highlighting their unwavering hope and determination to thrive. This episode captures the enduring strength of the Jewish people and the profound beauty of the Land of Israel. Am Yisrael Chai.

Send us a textHal Habecker discusses the biblical perspective on retirement, focusing on the Levites who retired at age 50 to serve in 48 cities across Israel. Despite the modern concept of retirement being less than a century old, Habecker emphasizes that the Bible addresses it implicitly. He highlights the Levites' post-retirement roles as pastors, judges, and teachers, stressing their continued contribution to the community. Habecker argues that older people, like the Levites, should remain active in their faith, mentoring younger generations and fulfilling God's purpose. He encourages continuous growth and service in all stages of life, advocating for a multi-generational approach to ministry.Support the show"Finishing Well Ministries aims to encourage and inspire aging Christians to understand and embrace God's calling in their later years, equipping them to actively pursue and fulfill His calling. FWM provides free materials, events, and other on-line resources that provide shared insights focused on finishing our lives well. We also recruit and train volunteers who lead and encourage small groups around the world to fulfill God's mission for them in these critically important years." - Hal Habecker Website: www.finishingwellministries.org Email us: Hal@finishingwellministries.orgFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/finishingwellministriesSupport Our Ministry: https://www.finishingwellministries.org/donateAre there biblical principles to help us understand how to finish well?Explore the Seven Essentials for Finishing Well. Learn more.Thanks for listening as we all strive to live and finish life well!

Why does the Torah give cities to the Levites, who have no land? Because cities are where identity is preserved. In this week's episode we explore the nature of cities—from Jerusalem to modern capitals and consider our relationship with them. With special focus on 9th Av.

Wednesday, 23 July 2025   Or have you not read in the law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless? Matthew 12:5   “Or not you read in the law that, the Sabbaths, the priests in the temple the Sabbath profane, and they are guiltless?” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus referred to the showbread being given to David though it was intended only for the priests. He now continues with the same general idea as He refutes the claims of the Pharisees, saying, “Or not you read.”   This contains a new word, anaginóskó, to read. It signifies “to know again.” In other words, when one reads, he is reminded of something that he may have forgotten. Thus, in reading, one refreshes his mind concerning what is written down.   In this case, it is something read, “in the law.” The Pharisees claimed Jesus did something unlawful in regard to eating on the Sabbath. He first addressed David's need to eat and how it had a priority that even transcended the intent of the law concerning the showbread.   He now returns to the law to specifically address the Pharisees' main issue with what the disciples (and thus by extension, He as well) were doing. In order to make His case complete, He continues, saying, “that, the Sabbaths.”   The plural is used to refer to the repetitive nature of the appointment, coming each week on the seventh day. On any and all Sabbaths, this point will hold true. His point is that “the priests in the temple the Sabbath profane.”   The profaning of the Sabbath by the priests is found on several occasions in the law. For example, sacrifices were to be presented every day of the week, one of several examples says –   “And on the Sabbath day two lambs in their first year, without blemish, and two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour as a grain offering, mixed with oil, with its drink offering— 10 this is the burnt offering for every Sabbath, besides the regular burnt offering with its drink offering.” Numbers 28:9, 10   The consecration of Aaron and his sons was held over at least one Sabbath as well –   “Thus you shall do to Aaron and his sons, according to all that I have commanded you. Seven days you shall consecrate them.” Exodus 29:35   Despite these things, Jesus says, “and they are guiltless?”   This is a second new word, anaitios. It is derived from the negative particle a (not) and aitios, an adjective signifying “causative.” As such, it signifies one who is not causing guilt. What can be inferred is that if a priest were not on duty, he would be required to observe the Sabbath, but if he was on duty, he would not be so required.   Further, if called to duty on the Sabbath, they would be held guiltless. This is seen in the record of the ill-fated end of the wicked queen Athaliah -   “‘This is what you shall do: One-third of you entering on the Sabbath, of the priests and the Levites, shall be keeping watch over the doors; 5 one-third shall be at the king's house; and one-third at the Gate of the Foundation. All the people shall be in the courts of the house of the Lord. 6 But let no one come into the house of the Lord except the priests and those of the Levites who serve. They may go in, for they are holy; but all the people shall keep the watch of the Lord. 7 And the Levites shall surround the king on all sides, every man with his weapons in his hand; and whoever comes into the house, let him be put to death. You are to be with the king when he comes in and when he goes out.' 8 So the Levites and all Judah did according to all that Jehoiada the priest commanded. And each man took his men who were to be on duty on the Sabbath, with those who were going off duty on the Sabbath; for Jehoiada the priest had not dismissed the divisions.” 2 Chronicles 23:4-8   The law says, “Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death” (Exodus 31:15). Despite this, profaning of the Sabbath by the priests in the course of their duties does not apply. As this is true, like the account with David and the bread, there is a greater standard that takes precedence over mandates of the law.   Life application: The word anaginóskó signifies “to know again.” Why do you suppose the Greek language uses such a word to describe the process of reading? The main reason is obvious. When we see, hear, or experience something, even when reading about it, we will eventually have the matter fade from our minds.   It may be that what we read will get confused with other things we have read, thus incorrect cross connections will result. Considering that the Bible is comprised of sixty-six books that are formed out of one thousand one hundred and eighty-nine chapters, it is a given that we will not be able to remember everything we have read.   But even if one is a savant who could somehow remember everything he read, there is no way he could make all of the necessary connections within the book that exist when attempting to understand how things fit together.   With our fading memories and with our inability to make all the connections we should on the first, fifth, tenth, or fiftieth time through, it becomes obvious why we need to constantly read the Bible. If we want to more fully understand what God is telling us and why, we must read and reread His word.   And because almost nobody is a savant who can remember everything he has ever read, it is a given that our memories will quickly fade concerning the content of the word. By the time we reach Revelation, we have jumbled up or forgotten the vast majority of what the previous sixty-five books have said.   If you want to have a right knowledge and clear remembrance of the word, you must continue to read it, all the days of your life. Please do this.   O God, help us to be responsible as we read Your word, reminding ourselves daily of what it records as we pick it up and read it. If we don't do this, the memory of its contents will fade, and our close connection to You will also begin to fade. May this never be so! May our hearts be constantly geared towards You as we enter into the pages of Your precious word. Amen.

We're still working through a list of names, but thankfully things get a little more interesting this week as the lists are broken up by historical accounts and records of what people did and when. As someone who once worked retail and food service, I like the behind-the-scenes look at how the Levites and gatekeepers conducted the daily maintenance of the temple found in today's reading. Later we'll begin The Song of Songs which is about two lovers and their love. It is a book of poetry, symbolism, and innuendo; if you hear something and think, “Does that mean what I think it means?” the answer is probably, “Yup!” 1 Chronicles 8 - 1:10 . 1 Chronicles 9 - 5:07 . 1 Chronicles 10 - 12:27 . Song of Songs 1 - 15:09 . Song of Songs 2 - 18:05 .  :::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

When it comes to the work we are called to do for God, in frustration some may ask, “What's the point?” Nothing God calls us to do is small in His eyes. It counts to Him. We are to be diligent and faithful in the smallest things for God, like the vigilant gatekeepers, the singers that were the spiritual vitality and the Levites (the minutia men). VF-1997 Nehemiah 7:1-4 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. ©2025 Pastor Melissa Scott, Ph.D., All Rights Reserved

Send us a textRocky returns this week, and we discuss the directives given to the priests and the severe consequences God threatens due to the priests' failure to honor Him and properly instruct the people. The conversation addresses the covenant between God and the Levites, the importance of teaching reverence, and the repercussions of neglecting these responsibilities. The episode emphasizes maintaining the "contract" or covenant with God and explores the vivid and harsh imagery used in these scriptures to convey the seriousness of the priests'The Sermon for this episode is titled "Keeping the Contract" and can be found at pondergmc.org/ministries/sermonsNEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. Feedback is welcome: PonderMethodist@gmail.com Music performed by the Ponder GMC worship team. Cover Art: Joe Wagner Recorded, edited and mixed by Snikrock

Why is there so much attention on each tribe's offering in chapter 7, and why bring up the Levites again in chapter 8? Click here for that and more as Dr. German walks us through another study of “Christianity in Numbers”!

The Joy of the Lord is Your StrengthNehemiah 8:10 “Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions of them to those for whom nothing is prepared, for this day is holy to our Lord; and do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”The theme for mentoring this month is Joy in the suffering. Several bible verses came up while researching this topic. I had already written at least one episode about most of them. However, I had not covered this verse yet. Right before this verse, Ezra the priest and scribe had gathered all the people together so he, along with the Levites and the governor, Nehemiah, could read the law of the Lord. All the people wept when they heard the words of the law. This is where our verse for today picks up. “Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions of them to those for whom nothing is prepared, for this day is holy to our Lord; and do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”I decided to go to the Enduring Word Bible Commentary as I wasn't quite sure what this verse meant. I wasn't quite sure why the people were crying when they heard the words of the Law. This is what I found on the Enduring Word Bible Commentary page, “All the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law: The word of God was doing its intended work. 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us two things that the word of God is profitable for: reproof and correction. Sometimes it hurts to be reproved and corrected, and these tears were evidence of some of that pain.b. Do not mourn nor weep: Ezra, Nehemiah, and the Levites did not want the people to mourn, even though it is a good thing to be sad under the conviction of the Holy Spirit through the word of God. Yet if the sense of conviction is greater than the sense that God is doing a good and holy work, then tears are not good.Our knowledge of our sin should never be bigger than our knowledge of Jesus as our Savior. We are great sinners, but He is a greater Savior.Therefore, the joy of the Lord is your strength – even when you are being convicted of sin. When we are convicted of sin we know that God is doing a work in us, so we can be glad and take joy.c. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength: The people felt sad because they were aware of their own sin. But they could walk in joy because God was doing a great work. Our emotions are not beyond our control; we can do God's will even when we don't feel like it.They didn't want the people to be sad because even though they may not have been perfect in carrying out the law, it is ok. God is still with them. Those in charge wanted them to know that it is good to stop everything every now and then and remember the law. It is good to stop and examine your behavior and how you are living, and see if it is in accordance with how God wants you to live. However, if it isn't, they didn't want them to be sad and to focus on how much they were messing up. They wanted the people to focus on how great God is and how, no matter how much we mess up, He can still redeem us.The same is true for us. It is important that we examine our behaviors, the way we live our lives, and how we treat others, to see if we are living according to the Lord's will. Are we following His commandments? Are we loving Him above all else? Are we loving our neighbors as we love ourselves? If we aren't, what should we do? We should bring it to the Lord. We can apologize for getting off course again, and then let Him know how sorry we are, and then we can just try again. God does not expect us to be perfect. He knows we will mess up. He knows we won't always get it right. He is ok with that as long as we always repent and turn back to Him!Let's look at the aspect of joy in this verse. This verse said, “For the joy of the Lord is your strength.” How is the joy of the Lord our strength? In this verse we can find joy in the Lord because He always redeems us. I love when it said in the commentary that, “Our knowledge of our sin should never be bigger than our knowledge of Jesus as our Savior. We are great sinners, but He is a greater Savior.” This is such a great reminder that no matter how bad our sin is, our Savior is greater than it. No matter how bad we have messed up, Jesus's sacrifice on the cross still covers it. We can take joy in the fact that there is nothing we can do that is not covered by Jesus's sacrifice. It is ok to be sad that we have hurt our relationship with the Lord. It is ok to be sad that we think we might have let God down. However, we can't stay there. We need to then find the joy that God has given us by sending his son to make up for our sins. God sacrificed His only son so that he could repair the closeness that Adam & Eve lost. This is something we can celebrate. This closeness is something to be joyful over.Another thing I love that the commentary said was, “Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength: The people felt sad because they were aware of their own sin. But they could walk in joy because God was doing a great work. Our emotions are not beyond our control; we can do God's will even when we don't feel like it.” This is something we all need to know. Our emotions are not beyond our control. We get to decide how we feel. In the moment, we can't always control our emotions. For instance if you see something, you might instantly feel something. For instance, when you see someone acting a certain way, you may get upset. That first reaction/emotion, you may not be able to control. However, you can control if you want to keep feeling that emotion or not.You get to decide what emotions you are feeling based on what story you are telling yourself. For instance, I could be sad about what is going on with my son right now, or I could be grateful because he is getting the help that he needs. Or I could be both. I get to decide. The same is true for you with whatever you are going through. You get to decide how you will feel. Will you find your strength in the joy of the Lord, or will you wallow in your misery? Will you turn to the Lord and repent, or will you sit in your shame and let it eat at you? The enemy does not want us to know that we get to decide how we will feel. He wants us to just sit there and listen to all he is whispering in our ears about how things won't ever get better. He wants us to believe that if God wanted us healed, he would have done it already. If God wanted to lift us from this place, He would have. The enemy wants us to believe our case is too far gone.The enemy is a liar. He doesn't know what God's plan is any more than we do. He does not realize the importance of our thoughts. If he can persuade us to spend more time worrying about the “what ifs” rather than focusing on the joy of the Lord and all that God can do, he will have won the war for our hearts and minds. He knows that if we're listening to him, we're letting him steal our joy. Joy in the suffering is possible, but only when our focus is on the Lord and all that good He is doing, even if we can't see it. The joy in the Lord is our strength because we can always find joy in the Lord, even when all seems lost. We won't always be happy, but we can always have joy.Dear heavenly Father, I ask you to bless all those listening to this episode today. Lord, we love you and we ask you to be with us in this hard time. Lord, please show us how to have joy in the hard times. Please help us to focus on you and all you are doing for us. Please help us to be grateful in the hard times. Please help us to know Jesus's sacrifice was enough to cover all we have done and will ever do. We love you Lord and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus's holy name, Amen!Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow. Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! Have a blessed day!Today's Word from the Lord was received in January 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “My children, my blessings are with you. I don't give you just human happiness. I give you so much more. My blessings in your joyful moments and when you are in sorrow. My blessings when you struggle and even when you feel lost. I am with you with my blessings.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

Pharisees were recognized by their phylacteries. Levites were recognized by their garments. John's disciples were recognized by their baptism. Stoics were recognized by their ascetic lifestyle. Legalists are recognized by what they do not do. What is a Christian to be recognized by? Join us for this episode of Wisdom from Above as Jesus reveals the badge of discipleship.

7/6/2025: Rev. Paul Bang   Nehemiah 13:4-31   English Standard Version     4 Now before this, Eliashib the priest, who was appointed over the chambers of the house of our God, and who was related to Tobiah, 5 prepared for Tobiah a large chamber where they had previously put the grain offering, the frankincense, the vessels, and the tithes of grain, wine, and oil, which were given by commandment to the Levites, singers, and gatekeepers, and the contributions for the priests. 6 While this was taking place, I was not in Jerusalem, for in the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon I went to the king. And after some time I asked leave of the king 7 and came to Jerusalem, and I then discovered the evil that Eliashib had done for Tobiah, preparing for him a chamber in the courts of the house of God. 8 And I was very angry, and I threw all the household furniture of Tobiah out of the chamber. 9 Then I gave orders, and they cleansed the chambers, and I brought back there the vessels of the house of God, with the grain offering and the frankincense. 10 I also found out that the portions of the Levites had not been given to them, so that the Levites and the singers, who did the work, had fled each to his field. 11 So I confronted the officials and said, “Why is the house of God forsaken?” And I gathered them together and set them in their stations. 12 Then all Judah brought the tithe of the grain, wine, and oil into the storehouses. 13 And I appointed as treasurers over the storehouses Shelemiah the priest, Zadok the scribe, and Pedaiah of the Levites, and as their assistant Hanan the son of Zaccur, son of Mattaniah, for they were considered reliable, and their duty was to distribute to their brothers. 14 Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and do not wipe out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God and for his service. 15 In those days I saw in Judah people treading winepresses on the Sabbath, and bringing in heaps of grain and loading them on donkeys, and also wine, grapes, figs, and all kinds of loads, which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day. And I warned them on the day when they sold food. 16 Tyrians also, who lived in the city, brought in fish and all kinds of goods and sold them on the Sabbath to the people of Judah, in Jerusalem itself! 17 Then I confronted the nobles of Judah and said to them, “What is this evil thing that you are doing, profaning the Sabbath day? 18 Did not your fathers act in this way, and did not our God bring all this disaster[a] on us and on this city? Now you are bringing more wrath on Israel by profaning the Sabbath.” 19 As soon as it began to grow dark at the gates of Jerusalem before the Sabbath, I commanded that the doors should be shut and gave orders that they should not be opened until after the Sabbath. And I stationed some of my servants at the gates, that no load might be brought in on the Sabbath day. 20 Then the merchants and sellers of all kinds of wares lodged outside Jerusalem once or twice. 21 But I warned them and said to them, “Why do you lodge outside the wall? If you do so again, I will lay hands on you.” From that time on they did not come on the Sabbath. 22 Then I commanded the Levites that they should purify themselves and come and guard the gates, to keep the Sabbath day holy. Remember this also in my favor, O my God, and spare me according to the greatness of your steadfast love. 23 In those days also I saw the Jews who had married women of Ashdod, Ammon, and Moab. 24 And half of their children spoke the language of Ashdod, and they could not speak the language of Judah, but only the language of each people. 25 And I confronted them and cursed them and beat some of them and pulled out their hair. And I made them take an oath in the name of God, saying, “You shall not give your daughters to their sons, or take their daughters for your sons or for yourselves. 26 Did not Solomon king of Israel sin on account of such women? Among the many nations there was no king like him, and he was beloved by his God, and God made him king over all Israel. Nevertheless, foreign women made even him to sin. 27 Shall we then listen to you and do all this great evil and act treacherously against our God by marrying foreign women?” 28 And one of the sons of Jehoiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was the son-in-law of Sanballat the Horonite. Therefore I chased him from me. 29 Remember them, O my God, because they have desecrated the priesthood and the covenant of the priesthood and the Levites. 30 Thus I cleansed them from everything foreign, and I established the duties of the priests and Levites, each in his work; 31 and I provided for the wood offering at appointed times, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, for good.

Reuben and Gad and 1/2 of Manasseh will settle East of the Jordan (Gilead/Golan Heights). Moses' journey record. Directions on how to divide Canaan. Cities for Levites and for refuge.

Because of the sins of their father, the Levites would have no home in the Promised Land. Instead, they were scattered throughout the towns and cities of the new land. Yet what began as a curse turned into a blessing. Join Dr. James Boice on The Bible Study Hour as he traces the history of the tribe of Levi and its place of importance to His people, Israel. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/581/29

Psalms - Vengeance invoked against adversaries. The Lord gives dominion to the King. 1 Chronicles - Solomon reigns. Offices of the Levites. Gershonites. Kohathites. Merarites. Duties revised. Devisions of Levites.

Our chapter continues to delineate the roles of the Levites. Three roles are described:1. Guards and gatekeepers2. Treasurers and Officials responsible for the storehouses3. Magistrates and Law Enforcement (Police)We shall discuss the need for guards and gatekeepers in the Temple.

Wednesday, 2 July 2025   And if you are willing to receive it, he is Elijah who is to come. Matthew 11:14   “And if you incline to receive, he, he is Elijah, the ‘being about to come.'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus said, “For all the prophets and the law, until John, they prophesied.” He next says, still speaking of John, “And if you incline to receive.”   Jesus will state a matter which is a certain truth, but He sets it forth as a proposition. Therefore, someone may accept or reject the proposition as he is so inclined. Because it is the Lord speaking, it is to be considered an act of trust as well as faith in the reliability of His word that it is so. This proposition is, “he, he is Elijah.”   One can see the emphatic nature of His words, and it is the emphasis that brings about the proper understanding of what Jesus is saying. There is a prophecy in Malachi 4 that everyone would have known about –   “Behold! I sending to you Elijah the prophet, To faces coming day Yehovah – The whopping and the fearing. 6 And turned heart fathers upon sons, And heart sons upon fathers. Lest come and strike the land – anathema.” Matthew 4:5, 6 (CG)   Jesus says that John the Baptist is this “Elijah” who was prophesied about. Thus, he is “the ‘being about to come.'” In other words, from the time the prophecy was given, there was the expectation that Elijah was coming. Each year, Jewish tradition taught that he would arrive at a feast, but this is most usually associated with the Passover. For this reason, it was (and still is to this day) a custom for some Jews to leave an empty chair at the seder, hoping it was to their home he would come.   However, it is clear from verses in Luke and John that John the Baptist is not Elijah –   “He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,' and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” Luke 1:17   “Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, ‘Who are you?' 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, ‘I am not the Christ.' 21 And they asked him, ‘What then? Are you Elijah?' He said, ‘I am not.'” John 1:19-21   To understand what is going on, one must more fully grasp the words of Malachi. Malachi 3:1 said that the messenger of the Lord, who is John the Baptist, would prepare the way for the Messenger of the covenant, Jesus. Reading the New Testament, it is taken as a certainty that this was referring to John and then Jesus. John came in the spirit and power of Elijah. Jesus, with His emphatic proclamation, is essentially saying, “John is doing the work of Elijah. You must accept this and not look for any other to avoid the curse of Malachi 4 to come upon you.”   However, God knew that Jesus would be rejected by Israel. In Malachi 4:1, it says, “For behold! The day coming...” The day referred to corresponds to what was said in Malachi 3:2 –   “But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears?”   But what exactly is this day? Scholars vary in their interpretation of its meaning. Some place it at the time of Christ's coming and the nation's rejection of Him. Thus, the destruction of Jerusalem by fire and the exile of the people. Others see it as the day when Christ returns in fiery judgment, as in 2 Peter 3:7 –   “But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.”   If this is the same day referred to in Malachi 3, one might assume the day is in Jesus' first coming. This is what Jesus is testifying to now. However, Malachi 4:5 says that this day is when the Lord will send Elijah the prophet, a man who did not die but who was taken directly to heaven in a whirlwind, as recorded in 2 Kings 2.   The answer to the meaning of “the day” comes from understanding God's irrevocable faithfulness to His unfaithful people, Israel. He has promised that He will bring them into the New Covenant. As a nation, that has not yet happened.   And so, the day is not one particular time, nor is it one particular event. It is a succession of events that comprises the day of the Lord's judgment spanning the history of Israel from Christ's first advent until His second.   John the Baptist came as the promised Elijah, and the nation did not receive Jesus. In the future, Elijah himself will return to testify once again to the nation. If Israel had heeded Jesus' emphatic proclamation, John's ministry would have been accepted as the coming of Elijah, they would have accepted Jesus, and they would have avoided the past two thousand years of calamity. But they didn't.   Hence, there is a need for Elijah to return and testify to the nation in the future.   Life application: God has not forsaken Israel, and the church has not replaced Israel or become “spiritual Israel.” The Bible never hints at such a thing. Rather, the church is a separate entity, fulfilling God's plan of redemption while Israel has languished under the punishment of the curses of the Law of Moses for having rejected Jesus.   However, despite their unfaithfulness, God has remained faithful. Were He to reject Israel, He would be just as prone to rejecting us in our state of salvation. Such will never be the case. Our unfaithfulness in no way negates God's faithfulness. We are saved and we continue to be saved despite ourselves. Thank God for Jesus, who has made this possible.   Lord God, thank You for the glory of Jesus Christ. His shed blood is sufficient not only to save all who come to Him, but to keep them saved until the day of redemption. We have no need to fear if we could lose what You have granted to us. We are secure until the end because of Jesus and His cross. Thank You, O God, for Jesus. Amen.  

Have you ever needed a second chance? Of course you have—we all have. And isn't it incredible to know that we serve a God who offers them freely? Deuteronomy chapter 10 overflows with mercy, reminding us that even in our failure, God doesn't give up on us. He calls us back to Himself—not for punishment, but for restoration. In this chapter, we see the heart of God: a God who generously gives His commandments again, who provides for His people, who calls us to love, obey, and serve Him with all we are. And when we walk in that obedience, we find blessing—not because we earned it, but because He is good. Join us for this episode of the Woman at the Well Ministries podcast as Erika Klose teaches from Deuteronomy chapter 10, focusing on verse 1: “At that time the LORD said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first, and come up unto me into the mount, and make thee an ark of wood.” Let's explore together the mercy of a God who writes new beginnings and calls us back into fellowship with Him. Scriptures Mentioned in this Episode Deuteronomy 10:1 – Quoted: “At that time the Lord said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first...” www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+10%3A1&version=KJV  Deuteronomy 10:2-5 – Continuation of the narrative about the tablets. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+10%3A2-5&version=KJV  Deuteronomy 10:6-11 – Recounting the journey, Aaron's death, and the Levites' role. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+10%3A6-11&version=KJV  Deuteronomy 10:12-13 – “And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee...” www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+10%3A12-13&version=KJV  Deuteronomy 10:14-22 – Describing God's love, justice, and Israel's calling. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+10%3A14-22&version=KJV  1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us...” www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+John+1%3A9&version=KJV  Did you enjoy this podcast? Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can listen to us on all major podcasting platforms like Apple Podcasts,  Spotify,  Google Podcasts,  YouTube, and Podbean. Check out Kim's latest Bible Bit book on Amazon! Do you want to bring Kim Miller to your church, upcoming retreat, or conference? Contact us! This podcast is brought to you by Woman at the Well Ministries and is supported by our faithful listeners. To support this podcast, please visit our support page. 

In our chapter, Kind David organizes the musical guilds of the Levites, yet again dividing them into 24 groups. We hear names familiar from Tehillim - Heman, Yedutoun and Assaf. But we will focus on the verb nb"a or נב"א which seems to be indicative of prophecy, and yet, here expresses music. What is the relationship between music and prophecy?

Because of the sins of their father, the Levites would have no home in the Promised Land. Instead, they were scattered throughout the towns and cities of the new land. Yet what began as a curse turned into a blessing. Join Dr. James Boice next time on The Bible Study Hour as he traces the history of the tribe of Levi and its place of importance to His people, Israel. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/81/29

In Chapter 23 David takes a census of the Levites and assigns them to one of four divisions:1. Management and supervision of the Construction of the Temple2. Shoftim and Shotrim - Law (and order)3. Gatekeepers4. Song and musicWe also read about Moshe's sons and grabdchildren for the first time in Tanakh! And this is where we meet Rechavia

Joshua 21:1-45 Because of the sins of their father, the Levites would have no home in the Promised Land. Instead, they were scattered throughout the towns and cities of the new land. Yet what began as a curse turned into a blessing. Join Dr. James Boice on The Bible Study Hour as he traces the history of the tribe of Levi and its place of importance to His people, Israel.

Friday, 27 June 2025   But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. Matthew 11:9   “But what you went out to see? A prophet? Yes! I say to you and superabounding a prophet” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that those wearing the fines, they are in the king's houses. He continues referring to John by asking again, “But what you went out to see?”   As with the previous time He asked, it indicates that the people, in fact, did not go out to see someone dressed in the fines. Rather, they had a different purpose entirely. Knowing why they went, He asks rhetorically, “A prophet?”   The people heard about John's crying in the wilderness, proclaiming the coming of the Lord –   Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,”' as the prophet Isaiah said.” John 1:22, 23   The people had heard of John's call to repentance and went into the wilderness to hear his prophetic message. Of him, Jesus continues, saying, “Yes! I say to you and beyond a prophet.”   John was asked who he was by the priests and Levites from Jerusalem. His response to them indicated that he was more than a prophet because he was the subject of prophecy. Isaiah said there is the voice of one crying in the wilderness. John said that voice was referring to him. Therefore, Isaiah was referring to him as the subject.   But more, he was not only the subject of the word, but he was the one to continue conveying the word. The words of John were uttered, and they have been recorded in Scripture for us. His role was to fulfill prophecy and to continue to proclaim the prophetic word of God concerning the coming of the Lord.   And yet, there is more. Not only would he fulfill the prophetic word while continuing to speak out the prophetic word, but he would personally acknowledge that his prophecies were fulfilled in the coming of the Messiah, Jesus –   “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is He of whom I said, “After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.” 31 I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.' 32 And John bore witness, saying, ‘I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. 33 I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, “Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” 34 And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.'” John 1:29-34   The other prophets of God spoke and wrote about the coming of the Messiah, but John personally beheld Him and proclaimed Him to be the One. Jesus will explain further about the greatness of John and his prophetic office in the verses to come.   Life application: The Bible is the main way that God specifically expresses Himself to the people of the world. It is true that He expressed Himself through nature and creation (general revelation). He has also revealed Himself through those who then prophesied His word (special revelation). He has further revealed Himself specifically through Jesus, who is the epitome of special revelation.   However, these instances of special revelation were limited to certain times and locations. Isaiah, Daniel, and the other prophets transmitted the word of God. Their words have been compiled into Scripture. Jesus came and fulfilled His ministry before ascending. Since then, the record and explanation of what He did and will continue to do is recorded in the New Testament.   The Bible is the record of those things. As the Bible is completed, there is no longer a need for special revelation apart from it. This logically tells us that when someone claims a word from the Lord, such a person is either deluded or lying. Why would God continue to give instructions apart from His word?   Look at the history of the church since the completion of the Bible. Those who have claimed prophecy have only brought disorder, not further harmony. And yet, despite not receiving further prophecy, because of how the Bible is written, we are a part of the fulfillment of prophecy.   If you think your situation isn't of any value in the stream of church history, consider that the Lord, through Isaiah, spoke of you –   “Behold! My Servant whom I uphold, My Elect One in whom My soul delights! I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.” Isaiah 42:1   Verses such as this came when the Gentiles were without hope, separated from the covenant promises. And yet, the Lord prophesied that at some point, both Jews and Gentiles would be included in what God would do for humanity through His Messiah.   Even if it is a distant reference to you, it still applies to you. Feel confident that the Lord planned and He has fulfilled His word partly through you if you have trusted in Jesus. What a comforting thought.   O God, thank You for having looked upon us and saved us. While we were Your enemies, You made the first move, sending Jesus to bring us back to You. All You asked us to do was to believe the gospel. And we do! Thank You for saving us and promising us restoration and eternal life. Thank You for Jesus. Amen.

So how does it end? How do the pieces of Isaiah fit together? Well, today we dive into Isaiah 66 and see the Lord's glorious plan for His Servant, His people and His kingdom. Join us in this exciting conclusion to this wonderful book! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    As we wrap up our study in the book of Isaiah, what key truths were taught about sin in the following verses:  a.    Isaiah 1:3 b.    Isaiah 59:2 c.    Isaiah 64:6  2.    What key truths are taught about the New Kingdom and her King in the following verses:  a.    Isaiah 2:2 b.    Isaiah 7:14 c.    Isaiah 9:1 d.    Isaiah 9:7 e.    Isaiah 11:2 3.    In Isaiah 66, verse 1, what can mankind make for God to dwell in? Why? According to verse 2, where does the Lord abide? Who might abide with Him? What does it mean to tremble at the Word of God? Would you say that this phrase describes your disposition to the Lord and His Word?  4.    Verse 3 describes the religious hypocrisy of Isaiah's day. What does it sound like the people were doing? Why was this the equivalent of sacrificing dogs and pigs? Does God embrace this kind of worship? How do people make up their own worship today? Why might the Lord reject that worship too?  5.    How does verse 4 show that the people's worship was truly hypocritical? How might a person today act like they are listening to God when they're really not? 6.    In verse 5, the people who tremble at God's Word even face persecution from their own family. What does it look like in this verse? Have you ever seen this kind of persecution in our world today? How does a person's resilience in the face of persecution demonstrate the genuineness of their trust in the Lord?  7.    In verse 6, what is the Lord's response to those who revile His people? What kind of confidence should this give to God's people when they're facing persecution for the Lord? 8.    Verses 7 to 9 is speaking of how the Lord will form a new people and give birth to a new nation. In light of everything we've studied so far in the book of Isaiah, what is this new nation being spoken of here? What kind of hope do you think the Lord intends to convey to His people in these verses? Why would they need this kind of encouragement?  9.    In verses 10 to 14, what is the appropriate response to this work of God? How was the Lord guiding Jerusalem to fulfill her purpose to be a spiritual mother to the nations of the world? 10.    How does the arrival of this new nation also bring judgment in verses 15 to 18? Why?  11.    Verse 19 speaks of how the Lord will send messengers throughout the world. What will be the result of their ministry in verse 20? What is a grain offering? What is the significance of these people being grain offerings to the Lord? 12.    Think about the statement in verse 21 that these people from the nations will be legitimate priests and Levites. Under the Old Covenant, how did a person become a priest? What kind of selection process did they undergo? Why are these Gentiles given such a privileged role and place in this new nation? 13.    In verse 23, how long will this new nation and these new people last? What will all mankind do before the Lord? What does this also say about the endurance of the people's worship? 14.    Read over verse 24, what is the final point of the Book of Isaiah? How is this still a warning to the world today? 15.    Think back to what we have learned from Isaiah about this coming kingdom. Has this kingdom come yet? In this study of Isaiah, how have you seen what it means to be living in light of this future kingdom? Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

What are the headings of each section and what do they mean? Today Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark worship leader Grace Kerbel to walk through Psalm 115-118 and how we can daily remind ourselves of the goodness of God.Additional Scripture referenced:Deuteronomy 10:8-9 – the role of the LevitesNumbers 18:20 – the Lord is the Levites' portion and inheritancePsalm 16:5; Lamentations 3:24 – additional references to "the land of the living" referring to the Levites' provision Respond in worship with:Goodness of God by The Worship Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgoPHQNTy0MO Praise the Name by Shane and Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiDRiWGWFOUCornerstone by The Worship Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQ56i6XKhKkLearn more about the headings in the Bible here: https://www.gotquestions.org/divided-Bible-chapters-verses.htmlRead this article on David's view of "the land of the living": https://www.gotquestions.org/land-of-the-living.htmlCheck out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

Bible Discussion: Many believers struggle with the idea of living financially off the calling God has given them—whether it's in ministry, business, or good works—but Scripture makes it clear that God intends for His people to be fully supported in their entrepreneurial calling. If you don't expect to live off your calling, you won't; faith operates through expectation, and that expectation must be shaped by God's Word. Just as the Levites were financially supported to serve full-time in the temple, believers today who are called by God should also be compensated so they can devote themselves fully to their assignments. God pays well, and when we obey His calling without complaint, He provides not only for our needs but also for our desires. Whether you are preaching, leading a business, or serving your community, if it is your primary calling, then it is God's will for you to live off it. Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com