Podcasts about most holy place

2 Chronicles 5 describes the ark being brought to Zion and its resting place in the Most Holy Place. The final picture of immortality the cherubim - represents the unity of believers with their Lord.; as it was made out of the same piece of gold and perpetually recognising his sacrifice and glory. The choir praises the "chesed" i.e. the lovingkindness of Yahweh. Chapter 6 describes Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the house. Note the humility of Solomon as he offers his prayer and the repetition of the phrase - "Hear in heaven, Your dwelling place". No physical house can contain our magnificent Sovereign. The whole ceremony is blessed by God. Note the pertinence of the words that we must extend the LORD's tender mercies i.e. loving kindnesses to others as we surely recognise our need of Yahweh's mercy. Punishment would be brought to Israel for their disobedience to their Sovereign to bring the nation back to God. Once again there is an allusion to Psalm 132. Ezekiel 41 tells us of the inner temple and the folding double leaved doors. Verses 1-26 describe the entrance rooms to the inner circle of buildings which constitute the Most Holy Place. Readers are encouraged to consider the writings of Henry Sulley - an architect from Nottingham - on Ezekiel chapters 40-48 in his book titled "The Temple of Ezekiel's Prophecy". Palm trees and cherubic figures are to befound in the vestibules of the Most Holy Place. Ezekiel's enthusiasm was heightened by the coming visionof the future house of prayer for all nations. May our contemplation of this glorious day likewise enlivenour hope and desire to likewise be there.John 7 records an unannounced visit of Jesus to Jerusalem at the Feast of Booths i.e. Tabernacles. There was a division among the people, as to whether our Lord was a good man, or a deceiver of the people. Jesus arrives in the middle of the feast. Many were convinced that he was the Christ. Although officers from the Sanhedrin were sent to arrest Jesus they could not do so because his time had not yet come. Jesus prophesied to them of his ascent to heaven and the giving of the Holy Spirit. Some said that this was the prophet like Moses. Others rejected this idea just because our Lord was from Galilee. Jesus just like Jonah, also from Gath-Hepher in Galilee told his audience to consider the sign of the prophet Jonah. We have seen in our earlier studies that the sign had many levels of significance and spoke primarily both of Jesus' resurrection and witnessing.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

2 Chronicles 5 describes the ark being brought to Zion and its resting place in the Most Holy Place. The final picture of immortality the cherubim - represents the unity of believers with their Lord.; as it was made out of the same piece of gold and perpetually recognising his sacrifice and glory. The choir praises the "chesed" i.e. the lovingkindness of Yahweh. Chapter 6 describes Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the house. Note the humility of Solomon as he offers his prayer and the repetition of the phrase - "Hear in heaven, Your dwelling place". No physical house can contain our magnificent Sovereign. The whole ceremony is blessed by God. Note the pertinence of the words that we must extend the LORD's tender mercies i.e. loving kindnesses to others as we surely recognise our need of Yahweh's mercy. Punishment would be brought to Israel for their disobedience to their Sovereign to bring the nation back to God. Once again there is an allusion to Psalm 132. Ezekiel 41 tells us of the inner temple and the folding double leaved doors. Verses 1-26 describe the entrance rooms to the inner circle of buildings which constitute the Most Holy Place. Readers are encouraged to consider the writings of Henry Sulley - an architect from Nottingham - on Ezekiel chapters 40-48 in his book titled "The Temple of Ezekiel's Prophecy". Palm trees and cherubic figures are to befound in the vestibules of the Most Holy Place. Ezekiel's enthusiasm was heightened by the coming visionof the future house of prayer for all nations. May our contemplation of this glorious day likewise enlivenour hope and desire to likewise be there.John 7 records an unannounced visit of Jesus to Jerusalem at the Feast of Booths i.e. Tabernacles. There was a division among the people, as to whether our Lord was a good man, or a deceiver of the people. Jesus arrives in the middle of the feast. Many were convinced that he was the Christ. Although officers from the Sanhedrin were sent to arrest Jesus they could not do so because his time had not yet come. Jesus prophesied to them of his ascent to heaven and the giving of the Holy Spirit. Some said that this was the prophet like Moses. Others rejected this idea just because our Lord was from Galilee. Jesus just like Jonah, also from Gath-Hepher in Galilee told his audience to consider the sign of the prophet Jonah. We have seen in our earlier studies that the sign had many levels of significance and spoke primarily both of Jesus' resurrection and witnessing. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Pastor John Ryan Cantu brings this week's message, “Clouds of Glory." Key Verse: 2 Chronicles 5:1-14 ESV: “Thus all the work that Solomon did for the house of the Lord was finished. And Solomon brought in the things that David his father had dedicated, and stored the silver, the gold, and all the vessels in the treasuries of the house of God. Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel and all the heads of the tribes, the leaders of the fathers' houses of the people of Israel, in Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord out of the city of David, which is Zion. And all the men of Israel assembled before the king at the feast that is in the seventh month. And all the elders of Israel came, and the Levites took up the ark. And they brought up the ark, the tent of meeting, and all the holy vessels that were in the tent; the Levitical priests brought them up. And King Solomon and all the congregation of Israel, who had assembled before him, were before the ark, sacrificing so many sheep and oxen that they could not be counted or numbered. Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the Lord to its place, in the inner sanctuary of the house, in the Most Holy Place, underneath the wings of the cherubim. The cherubim spread out their wings over the place of the ark, so that the cherubim made a covering above the ark and its poles. And the poles were so long that the ends of the poles were seen from the Holy Place before the inner sanctuary, but they could not be seen from outside. And they are there to this day. There was nothing in the ark except the two tablets that Moses put there at Horeb, where the Lord made a covenant with the people of Israel, when they came out of Egypt. And when the priests came out of the Holy Place (for all the priests who were present had consecrated themselves, without regard to their divisions, and all the Levitical singers, Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, their sons and kinsmen, arrayed in fine linen, with cymbals, harps, and lyres, stood east of the altar with 120 priests who were trumpeters; and it was the duty of the trumpeters and singers to make themselves heard in unison in praise and thanksgiving to the Lord), and when the song was raised, with trumpets and cymbals and other musical instruments, in praise to the Lord, “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever,” the house, the house of the Lord, was filled with a cloud, so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord filled the house of God.” Additional Notes: To Fan the Flames of Revival in the Temple: Come to church excited and expectant Play your part Get out of the way and let God move Sermon Topics: God's Presence, Revival If you enjoyed the podcast, please subscribe and share it with your friends on social media. For more information about PNEUMA Church, visit our website at mypneumachurch.org. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://instagram.com/mypneumachurch YouTube: https://youtube.com/mypneumachurch Facebook: https://facebook.com/mypneumachurch Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:30 - Welcome 04:00 - 2 Chronicles 5:1-14 ESV 06:59 - Clouds of Glory

In 2 Chronicles 3 we are told of the building of the temple. This building commenced in the 2nd month of the fourth year of Solomon's reign. We know that the Temple was completed and dedicated in 1,004 BC. It was constructed on the site of Ornan's threshing floor. Verses 1-7 describe the precious materials used in its construction. Verses 8-9 tells us the dimensions and quantity of gold used for the Most Holy Place. Verses 10-14 speak of the construction of the golden cherubim of the Most Holy. Verses 15-17 outline the fabrication of the two bronze pillars at the entrance of the temple - Boaz (the strong one) and Yachin (God will establish). These pillars are typical of the work of our Lord Jesus Christ. Chapter 4 records the furnishings of the temple. It is worth noting that modern metallurgy does not have the skills to make the brazen sea that was made 3,000 years ago. Verses 1-6 describe the making of the brazen sea in the courtyard that speaks of cleansing by the water of God's Word as we first approach Him. Verses 7-10 inform us of the 10 golden Lampstands that illuminate the Holy Place. In verse 7 we see that these Lampstands represent our Lord Jesus Christ and his saints Jew and Gentile which will provide the gospel's light to the world: Zechariah 4:10-14. As our Lord Jesus walked among his people he was continually enlightening them. To. Us now it symbolises our Lord Jesus Christ as the light to our path as we walk towards God's kingdom: Psalm 119:105. Verses 11-18 enumerate sundry furnishings and provide further details of the appearance and manufacture of the bronze sea. Verses 19-22 conclude the description of the Temple. The golden table of shewbread - literally "the bread of the faces" - speaks of Yahweh's provision on a constant basis for His people in provision of fellowship with Him until the seventh day when the bread is changed - telling of the immortalisation of the saints of God. In Ezekiel 40 we have the prophet being given a vision of the coming temple. It had a structure like a city. This Temple is of immense proportions for it is to be a House of Prayer for all nations in Messiah's Kingdom. From verses 5-16 we are given a description of the most important gate - the east gate. It is through this gate that the Lord Jesus Christ enters the temple. Then follow descriptions of the outer court, the north and south gates, the inner court and the chambers (or rooms) of the priests. Lastly we are given a description of the vestibule of the temple. John 6 recorded signs 4 and 5 - the feeding of the 5,000 and our Lord's walking on the troubled sea. The feeding of the 5,000 took place in spring - a time of abundant green grass. It was Passover time (12 months before Jesus' crucifixion) and just after the death of John the Baptist. Jesus, in testing Philip, asks where can Jesus and his Apostles purchase sufficient bread in the wilderness for this crowd; for our Lord already knew what he was going to do. From the personal lunch of a lad - five loaves and two fish Jesus feeds 5,000 and collects 12 baskets full of fragments. Having full bellies, the multitude wants to forcibly make Jesus their king. Our Lord rapidly disperses the crowd and sends the disciples away by boat. Jesus goes into a mountain to pray. The Lord comes to the disciples walking on the water. No sooner had he joined them than they arrive at Capernaum - the city of comfort. This is a parable illustrating our vain toiling on the troubled sea of nations as we await the return of our Master. As soon as Jesus returns we will receive the peace he brings and the comforts of the kingdom age. At the synagogue in Capernaum a discussion takes place as Jesus tells them that he is the 'bread of life' - in contrast to the wilderness manna eaten by their fathers. The Son of God has been sealed in his thinking by his Father; and what they need to do was believe. Their being saved is through what the Father has done through His Son and all they can do is to accept this by believing on His Son. Isaiah 55 is a key link to this chapter and it focused on resurrection - "the sure mercies, i.e. 'chesed' of David". Note the emphasis in John 6 and how many times Jesus refers to resurrection - verses 39, 44. Verse 45 quotes from Isaiah 54 verse 13. All who believe the faithful message of the gospel are "taught of God". Jesus found that many would-be disciples leave him being unable to cope with the challenging ideas our Lord Jesus presents. Peter's encouraging and supportive words for his Lord particularly and for every potential disciple when says in verses 68-69, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed and come to know, that you are the Holy One of God". ESV Jesus though encouraged reminds Peter and the other Apostles of the rocky road ahead when he refers them to the challenges that are to come from Judas Iscariot: see verses 70-71. Let none of us trust in ourselves for the heart of mankind is "diabolos' - treacherous. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

PRESENCE PRAYER THE VEIL   What is the veil?  The veil represents the mindset of separation from God in the soul. Before Adam and Eve were tempted by the serpent to disobey God they lived in the presence of God and were not conscious of any separation between themselves and God within their souls. But after they disobeyed God and listened to darkness, their souls were plunged into a mindset of separation from Him.    Their once innocent and blameless souls became self-serving and willful, hiding in the shadows of shame and guilt from God. Devising strategies to cover up and blame others for their disobedience. This became the separated soul life of humanity from that time on. The veil The first time this veil is spoken of in the Bible is when Moses went into the presence of the Lord when he received the commandments on Mt Sinai. The Israelites were afraid to look at him or come near him because being in God's presence caused his face to shine so brightly that he had to cover it with a veil.   Exodus 34:29 When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, with the two tablets of the testimony in his hand as he came down from the mountain, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God. Aaron and all the people of Israel saw Moses, and the skin of his face shone, and they were afraid to come near him… The temple also had a veil of separation which separated people from Gods presence. No one was allowed to go through that temple veil, except for the high priest once a year on the day of atonement - they would actually sturck dead if they did. Atonement was celebrated last Sunday and today the Feast of Tabernacles is celebrated sukkot (John 7:37 living water) Hebrews 9:7 into the second chamber (behind the veil) the high priest went alone once a year, with the blood of sacrifice, which he offered for himself and for the people's sins committed in ignorance; the Holy Spirit indicating this, that the way into the Holiest of All was not yet a reality while the first tabernacle was still standing… 11. But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.  Paul called the Old Covenant of the Ten Commandments given through Moses the “ministry of death, carved in letters on stone” and he contrasts this with the New Covenant given through Christ, where the Commandments are written in our hearts through the Holy Spirit. When Jesus died for us on the cross, he went through the veil of separation for all of humanity, making the way for us to pass through the veil also and to live a life with the mindset of non-separation between us and God.  Matthew 27:50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split. This was an incredible physical representation orchestrated by God to show us this Old Covenant was over. The veil was physically torn. The whole earth shook. Just imagine that. Interestingly, that was the end of blood sacrifices for sin for Israel. The veil was torn e through his flesh and blood sacrifice on the cross for all of us, for eternity.  The Old Covenant's glory was torn and replaced by a New Covenant- a glory that is eternal and internal—Christ in us, the hope of glory (Ephesians 3:4).  No one in the Old Covenant had an inner life of the Holy Spirit within them.. What is the Veil? The veil is the flesh. What is the flesh? The flesh is our self-made soul where we build an inner self life that is a very poor reflection of how our original spirit self was uniquely created by God to be like him as his child. But the self of the flesh puts the false ‘shadow of us' on display. This ‘flesh' becomes the veil of separation until we realise that we can have direct, unveiled face to face intimacy with God through the Spirit, transforming us from the inside out. He comes into our vulnerability and weakness and shines through with his strength.  The Bible says that Jesus came in the flesh (John 1:14) but he went through life with a totally innocent and blameless soul and with a totally unveiled face. His soul was tempted in all points such as we are, but he did not sin (Hebrews 4:15 hamartia – miss the mark). Jesus did not have to create his own shadow me-self in his soul- which is the flesh. There was no veil of a mindset of separation from his Father.  And when He died for us on the cross, Jesus went through the veil of separation for all of humanity, making the way for us to pass through the veil also and to live a life with the mindset of non-separation between us and God.  Hebrews 10:19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the veil, that is, through his flesh. The Bible says the whole world is under darkness – under the influence of evil 1 John 5:19 describing a world separated from God with a veil over their face that turns them inward towards their soul self instead of towards the face of God. Just like adam and eve did We can get pulled by our soul's problems to turn inwards into our shadow life or we can get drawn by the Holy Spirit to turn to the Lord, just as the sunlight draws a sunflower to turn to the sun so that it can grow and get life Paul spoke about Israel in the Old Covenant compared to us in the New Covenant But their minds were blinded. For to this day, when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains between them and God's glorious presence, because only through Christ is it taken away. Yes, to this day whenever Moses is read a veil lies over their hearts. But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory. (2Corinthians 3:18) The turning can be gradual, like walking up a hill carrying the burdens of our soul till we get to the top and enter the presence of God, the tabernacle, the holy place where God is, the room spoken about in Matthew 6:6 when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. That turning is actually our repentance – turning from self to God. And when you walk up that hill Jesus is helping you carry the burdens, and while you are in the room Jesus helps you give the burdens to the Father. When you come back down the hill the Father rewards you openly – that is, he will supernaturally show you in some outward way that he has heard you and that he has brought things together for good in such a coincidental way that you know it could only have been God that has done it. The Old Testament brought harsh judgement and condemnation. But it highlights that with Gods Glory behind a veil, they were always missing the mark by trying to put God on display in their own lives in their own strength rather than trusting Him and putting Him on display. That was to show us that we can't live without God With-in us. But even though we now live a life without the veil, we often act as if it is still there.  When people say repent from your sins, (repent meaning turning from and turning to) and sin meaning to miss the mark- all that is asking you to do is to turn from yourself towards God to help you with why you are missing the mark. That's all sin does, it stops you from living with Him and for Him. In the New Testament the Spirit brings life, forgiveness, mercy, transformation, and freedom (2 Cor. 3:6, 17). In Presence prayer we come to know God for who he is and what he says and what he does. We know we are loved and mercifully accepted for who we are as our new ‘God with us' self. Our hearts desire becomes to please him. The veil of separation has been torn down by Jesus. The Father and Jesus and Holy Spirit have come to make their home in us and we delight to do our housecleaning like never before – to sparkle. When people come to the house of our heart, they can feel welcomed and blessed as God can now be on display and not just us. Paul unveils this wonderful mystery in Colossians. Col. 1:26 This mystery was kept secret for ages and generations past, but now it has been revealed to God's people who desire to live with him and for him. For God wanted them to know that the riches and glory of Christ are for all of humanity (Gentiles). And this is the mystery - Christ lives in you, giving you assurance of sharing his glory (His life on display though you). Simply turning to God as Father Son and Holy Spirit in our minds and hearts as often as we can brings us closer to the reality of God's life within us and makes way for his life to shine through us. We have this treasure in earthen vessels so let us treasure our treasure and the turning takes the veil of separation away and allows our own and other people's lives to be enriched. The present moment is always the most significant time in history - living with God.                            Paul OSullivan – pauloss@me.com

As a young journalist, I quickly learned about the power of a “press pass.” That one credential—displaying my name, picture, and media outlet—unlocked countless doors by allowing me to meet and interview athletes and celebrities before or after major events. While I enjoyed having special access to public figures, the allure soon faded after I received Jesus as my Savior and started living for Him. I realized sports and my career had become my idols. When God called me out of my journalism career, I lost my press pass but gained the access that truly matters— access to God’s heavenly throne room through prayer because of Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection. The writer of Hebrews points out that a high priest was selected from among the Israelites, specifically one of Aaron’s descendants, and appointed for the sacred duty of representing the people before God. He was the only one who could enter the Most Holy Place in the temple once a year “to offer gifts and sacrifice” to atone for his and the people’s sins (5:1) for he too was a mere mortal man. Then Christ came, our great and perfect high priest. When He died, the veil in the temple was torn and the barrier that existed between God and humanity was removed (Matthew 27:51). Because our loving Redeemer has reconciled us to His Father, we can freely pray to God: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). What a privilege to have access to God’s throne room as we talk to Him in prayer.

The Power of Atonement – Freedom Through the Blood” • Friday Service Visit our website at www.pastortodd.org To help us in our mission: www.toddcoconato.com/give 1. Leviticus 16:30 (NKJV) “For on that day the priest shall make atonement for you, to cleanse you, that you may be clean from all your sins before the Lord.” 2. Hebrews 9:12 (NKJV) “Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.” 3. John 1:29 (NKJV) “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” 4. Romans 5:9 (NKJV) “Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. 5. Isaiah 53:5–6 (NKJV) “He was wounded for our transgressions… and by His stripes we are healed.” 6. Colossians 2:14–15 (NKJV) “…having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us… He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” 7. Revelation 12:11 (NKJV) “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” 8. Hebrews 10:19–22 (NKJV) “Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus…”

Send us a text“And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: ‘Also the tenth day of this seventh month shall be the Day of Atonement. It shall be a holy convocation for you; you shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire to the Lord. And you shall do no work on that same day, for it is the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the Lord your God” (Leviticus 23:26-28). “It shall be a statute forever throughout your generations in all your dwellings” (v. 31).“Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own Blood (Jesus) entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption” (Hebrews 9:12). “How much more shall the Blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” (Hebrews 9:14) “He has appeared to put away sin by the Sacrifice of Himself” (Hebrews 9:26).“But this Man (Jesus the Christ), after He had offered one Sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God, from that time waiting till His enemies are made His footstool. For by one Offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified” (Hebrews 10:12-14).“Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the Blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:19-23).Freshly written and sent out immediately "morning by morning" from the morning prayer time of Tommy Hays each day.God bless you and you have a great day!—Tommy Hays | Messiah Ministrieshttp://messiah-ministries.org

The Earthly Holy Place 9Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly place of holiness.2For a tent[a]was prepared, the first section, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence.[b]It is called the Holy Place.3Behind the second curtain was a second section[c]called the Most Holy Place,4having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron's staff that budded, and the tablets of the covenant.5Above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. 6These preparations having thus been made, the priests go regularly into the first section, performing their ritual duties,7but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the unintentional sins of the people.8By this the Holy Spirit indicates that the way into the holy places is not yet opened as long as the first section is still standing9(which is symbolic for the present age).[d]According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper,10but deal only with food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation. Redemption Through the Blood of Christ 11But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come,[e]then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation)12he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption.13For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify[f]for the purification of the flesh,14how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our[g]conscience from dead works to serve the living God.

Daily Dose of Hope September 24, 2025   Scripture – Luke 23   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, We come before you this morning, thanking you for a new day.  Lord, you are good and we rejoice in your holy and powerful name.  As we begin our day, Lord, help us focus on you.  Help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on your Word and what you want us to learn today.  We get so distracted and self-consumed.  Forgive us for that, Lord.  In these next few moments of silence, help us have laser focus on your voice... In Your Powerful Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional/podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we are deep diving into Luke 23.    Today, we start with Jesus before Pilate and Herod.  Both Roman men believe that Jesus  is innocent.  Pilate actually tries to get the people to release Jesus, but the crowd is stirred up.  They want blood.  Jesus' innocence is not the point to them.  They are looking for a way to get rid of this trouble-maker.  And these men are not willing to stand up for what's right.    There was a man named Simon from Cyrene who was passing by and they forced him to carry the cross.  Cyrene was on the tip of Africa so this man was far from home!  And here he was, just going about his business, and he is enlisted, or more like seized, to carry the cross of the Savior of the world.  I'm guessing that Jesus' physical body was incredibly weak and bloody by this point.  And Simon walked by him, carrying the cross that would serve to execute Jesus but also save all humanity from their sin. We don't know what happened to Simon after the crucifixion.  He isn't mentioned again in Scripture.  But my guess is that his life was never the same again.  An encounter with Jesus is always life-changing.   The text in which Jesus dies on the cross is called the Good Friday scripture.  It may seem odd that we would call the day that Jesus was crucified and died “good.” Apparently, the term came into common use in the 1200s because for us, it was a truly good day, as Jesus became the final sacrifice for all sin for all people for all time. As the full expression of God's love for us, Jesus voluntarily gave his life so that we could be reconciled to holy God. It is very much good.   There is a lot to be said about the crucifixion but I wanted to highlight something in particular.  Right before Jesus breathed his last breath on the cross, the curtain in the Temple was torn down the middle. This is the curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (the Holiest of Holies) where the ark of the covenant was kept and the presence of God remained. When the curtain tore, it was a sign that the New Covenant was instituted. Because of Jesus' sacrifice (the final sacrifice for sin), those who believe in him can now go directly to the throne of God's grace. When holy God looks at us, he doesn't see our sinfulness but the blood of Christ. Thus, there are no more barriers that can separate us from God.   I'd like to close today with a prayer that is an adaptation of Hebrews 10:19-25: Thank you, Lord, that we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God's house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ's blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Lord, help us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Amen.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

In this episode, Pastor David Maestas walks through Hebrews 9, where we're given a powerful comparison between the old covenant rituals and the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus. While the earthly tabernacle and repeated animal sacrifices pointed to the need for cleansing, they were only temporary and symbolic. Jesus entered the true Most Holy Place—not with the blood of animals, but with His own—securing eternal redemption for all who believe. Pastor David reminds us that forgiveness isn't earned through religion or repetition; it's received through the perfect and final work of Christ. His blood doesn't just cover sin—it cleanses the conscience and opens the way to God. If you've ever wondered whether you're truly forgiven, this chapter gives a clear and resounding answer: in Jesus, you are.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 40-41; Psalm 128; Revelation 21 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode, “September 16th, 2025,” host Hunter invites us to gather around the Scriptures and discover what God is saying to us on day 260 of our journey. We'll explore detailed visions of the temple in Ezekiel 40 and 41, the blessings of Psalm 128, and the promise of a new heaven and new earth in Revelation 21. Hunter walks us through these passages as our Bible reading coach, highlighting how the temple—once the epicenter of sacrifice and divine presence—is ultimately eclipsed by Jesus, the true source of life, light, and hope. Heather joins to share a personal reflection on change, using a story about Portland's migrating swifts as a reminder of God's enduring faithfulness amidst life's transitions. Together, we close with heartfelt prayers and encouragement to embrace the new seasons God brings. Settle in as we warm our hearts by the fires of God's love, and remember—no matter what changes, you are loved. TODAY'S DEVOTION: The story of sacrifice is no more. That's what stands out in today's readings—a whole narrative built around altars, offerings, and a temple, with its Most Holy Place, fades away. In Ezekiel, we see exact measurements for the place where heaven and earth would meet, the space where God would, by design, invite broken humanity into his holy presence through sacrifice. The temple stood as the epicenter of Israel's worship and God's bridge to his people. Every room, every altar, every detail pointed forward, always and only ever pointing us to him—the Lamb. But in Revelation, John sees something altogether new. The story changes. There is no more temple, because there is no more need for it: “I saw no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.” Even the sun and the moon, those keepers of time, are no more. All that once gave structure and symbol to history has been eclipsed. Darkness, suffering, and death are gone. The instruments of sacrifice have given way to the fullness of what they pointed towards—Jesus himself. What remains? Life. The Lamb's Book of Life. Jesus, the Lamb, has brought history to its completion. All stories are now dissolved into his, and only he remains, shining brighter than the sun, illuminating the city, and infusing every moment with the glory of God. The story of God's unfailing love has reached its apex, and you have been woven into that story. Your name, written in his book, means you share his eternal life and light. So now, we are called to live in that light, to abide in him, to let his life become ours. All other stories fall away. The seasons change. The world shifts around us. But here is something that endures, unchanging: you are written into the very life of Christ. The Lamb is your temple. The Lamb is your life. That's a prayer I have for my own soul. That's a prayer I have for my family, for my wife, my daughters, my son. And that's a prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Send us a textStep inside God's special tent, the Tabernacle, and discover how every part pointed to Jesus. Learn why a spotless lamb was sacrificed for forgiveness, why Jesus is called the Lamb of God, and how the sweet incense reminded Israel that their prayers rise to Heaven. Explore the Holy Place with its twelve loaves, golden lampstand that never went dark, and the altar of incense, then peek into the Most Holy Place where God's law was kept and His presence shone above the ark. This simple tour shows how God promised a Savior who would come to rescue us from sin and be the light of the world. Talk about it:Why did God ask people to bring a lamb when they sinned?How does light help you remember Jesus?What is one prayer you want to send to God today?We'd love to hear from you.To reach us quickly, click the “Send us a text” link at the top of the episode description.Or write to us by mail:Kathy's Kids StorytimePO Box 44270Charlotte, NC 28215-0043

I am thankful that I have been forgiven for all my sins. That God now is my Father in heaven. That He loves me. Hecares for me. He meets all our needs according to His riches and glory inChrist Jesus. I have been so blessed with His forgiveness. Now that's what weread about in Ephesians 1:7. “In whom we have redemption through His blood.Yes, the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace”.  Wedon't deserve this kind of forgiveness, but God gives it to us. He forgives usbecause Christ died on the cross for our sins. Now, a couple more things aboutforgiveness we want to continue to talk about. In John 1:29, when John theBaptist introduced Jesus Christ to his public ministry, and he saw Jesus comingto be baptized, he said, "Behold the lamb of God, which takes away thesin of the world." It is possible that John was thinking about and referringto Leviticus 16. You remember in Leviticus16, the great atonement chapter ofthe Old Testament, that on the Day of Atonement, one day a year, the High Priestof Israel would take the blood of a goat into the Most Holy Place, dipped hisfingers in that blood, and then he would sprinkle it on the Mercy Seat in the MostHoly Place before a holy God.  Rememberthat the Mercy Seat was setting over the Ark of the Covenant, which includedthe law of God, the law of Moses, the law that condemns us, the law that tellsus we're sinners, which reminds us that none of us are perfect. We've allsinned and come short of the glory of God that's revealed in His moral law. Andthere the mercy seat was sitting above and over it reminding us that with Godthere is abundant mercy and kindness and grace if we'll turn to His way ofsalvation which is through the blood. (Read Dr. Towns Devotional that is postedon my website at: https://www.pmiministries.org/post/365-ways-to-know-god-by-elmer-towns-august-24 Therewas another goat called the scapegoat. And that scapegoat would be outside thetabernacle doors. The priest laid his hands on the head of that goat and confessedall the sins of the people of Israel. Symbolically he would put the sins of thepeople on the head of that goat. Then that goat then would be taken by a manthat was appointed by the priest and led out into the wilderness, and maybethere was another man further out already waiting, and he would take it furtherand further and further into the wilderness. And so finally, there is no waythat that goat could find its way back to the people of God. And my friend, thisscapegoat symbolized that their sins were not only covered there in thetabernacle, atoned for, but they were also removed.  Thatreminds me of Psalms 103:10-12 where it says: “He has not dealt with usaccording to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities. For as theheavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fearHim; As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed ourtransgressions from us.” My friend, God's not only saved us and forgiven us,and no longer holds our sins against us, they are also no longer on ouraccount. They were put on Christ account. And on Christ account, they were paidin full.  Godhas now removed our sins from us. The removal of our sins is as far as the eastis from the west. It doesn't matter how far east you go, you can't get to thewest. And no matter how far west you go, you won't get to the east, so tospeak. They're removed from each other, never to come together.  Yoursins will never come together upon you again because you're forgiven in ChristJesus. I love what it says in Hebrews 8:11 where God says, “For I will bemerciful toward their iniquities. And I will remember their sin no more."God not only forgives us, He forgets our sins. We might not forget them, butGod does.  Forgivenand Forgotten!!!!!  Oh, how blessed weare. Today you can experience and enjoy forgiveness of sins through Christ! Godbless!

We live in a world in which most people do not want to feel ashamed of anything.  Lawyers grow rich out of the efforts of some to camouflage over their failures and wrongdoing.  But there can be no effective camouflage before God – so we must not be influenced by the attitudes that surround us.We read today how Jesus had a wide audience “the crowds with his disciples” when “he said to them, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.  For whoever would save his life will lose it … what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?  For whoever is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” [Mark 8 v.34-37]Those who fail to put God first in their thinking will not know they have forfeited their life, that is their hope of eternal life, until – it is too late!  We must not miss the vital point Jesus makes, “For whoever is ashamed of me … “ Jesus will also “be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father …”The words of Solomon have heart searching parallels with the words of Jesus.  Look at the words he used in his prayer to God as he dedicated the marvellous Temple. We read today of the ark being brought from the Tabernacle and put in “its place in the inner sanctuary of the house (Temple) in the Most Holy Place.” [1 Kings 8 v.6}.“Then Solomon stood before the altar of the L:ORD in the presence of all the assembly of Israel and spread out his hands toward heaven.” [v.22] There follows a remarkable prayer: it is far more than a prayer of praise.What we need to note most of all are his references to the attitudes of the hearts of those praying – and God's awareness of this.  As “you listen to the plea of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray …” [v.30] “forgive and act and render to each whose heart you know, according to all his ways – for you, you only, know the hearts of all the children of mankind” [v.39] “… if they repent with all their mind and with all their heart” [v.48]In finishing his prayer  he tells the people “The LORD our God be with us as he was with our fathers.  May he not leave or forsake us, that he may incline our hearts to him, to walk in all his ways …” [v.57,58], telling the people, “Let your heart therefore be wholly true to the LORD our God …” [v.61]     Those with such a heart will never feel “ashamed” of confessing their belief and faith. Let us shine as lights in the darkness of this world and in word and deed “may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light” [1 Peter 2 v.9]

We have a fixed foundation date when the House for the LORD's worship was completed: BC 1004. Solomon is recorded in 1 Kings 6 as building a magnificent temple, which is described in this chapter. Seven years of meticulous building were occupied in the construction of this glorious House. Verses 1-6 speak of the dimensions and arrangements of this house - note that is largely modeled on the Tabernacle. Verse 7 mentions the wonderful skills of the stone masons. Verses 11-13 say that no matter how great the house was it would only be a true house for worship should Yahweh choose to dwell in it. His continuing presence depended on the faithfulness of His servants. Verses 14-22 describe the impressive materials that were used in this house. Verses 23-28 speak of the centre of worshipping - the Most Holy Place. Verses 29-37 reveal details of the walls and the entrance gates of this House.At an impossible time during the Babylonian siege Jeremiah was requested by his uncle's son, Hanameel, to buy a field in Anathoth; to which he complied. The field was bought, despite all evidence being contrary to this act. The times were oppressive the Babylonian was ravaging the land and Jerusalem was to soon be taken by Nebuchadnezzar. The normal contracts were drawn up for the field, witnesses attested by placing their signatures on the deeds. Those contracts were placed in an earthen vessel and buried at the site. In verses 16-25 Jeremiah prays to the Almighty for an explanation of what seems to be an impossibility: ie the prophet inheriting that field. Verses 26-35 tell how Jeremiah's Omnipotent Sovereign would fulfill His promise: NOTHING IS TOO HARD FOR THE ALMIGHTY. Never let us lose sight of this. What is impossible for us is easy for the LORD. Don't judge on the basis of how things appear to be. What our Sovereign has revealed is certain. Those who trust Him despite appearances will with Jeremiah receive the rewards of faithfulness. In Mark 6 Jesus returns to Nazareth where the previous 28 years of his life were spent. There above all other towns he should have been acclaimed. But this was not to be; as he declares "a prophet is without honour in his own country". In the words of John 1:12 "he came to his own and his own received him not". His capacity for healing here was limited by their unbelief. The twelve Apostles were sent out with a message for the hearers to repent. Their message was supported by the testimony of miracles. There follows a lengthy account of the death of John the Baptist - which includes Herod's respect for John's character. This was a trial for both the vicious Herod and the virtuous John. The Jezebel-like Salome secured John's death. The report of John's demise was devastating for Jesus, who sought solitude and time to reflect - his own death was but 12 months away. But crowds sought him and he had compassion for them, as they were "sheep lacking a shepherd". Joshua had asked the same request of Yahweh following Moses' death. 5,000 men, not counting women and children, are fed from five loaves and two fish. The twelve baskets of fragments are collected. The remains were greater than the initial fare. One lesson being that through Israel Messiah would feed the world. After this our Lord walks upon the Sea of Galilee indicating that he has power over the nations. And finally the boat into which Jesus enters reaches the shore. In this Jesus demonstrates that he would be the healer of the nations.More here https://christadelphianvideo.org/christadelphian-daily-readings/

Why Do People Debate Scripture in a One-Sided Manner? We talk about how people like to debate the side they prefer BUT they tend to avoid listening to opposite view points EVEN WHEN PEOPLE ARE READING FROM THE SAME RELIGIOUS SCRIPTURES! We did not get into discussing how or why people do this? But examples of why people do this. For example: In Christianity, it is very common that most denominations do not follow the Jewish Laws. Those who do follow the 10 Commandments, including observance of the Jewish Sabbath times, will often avoid the verses that state the Commandments do not need to be followed. Those who keep some dietary laws (such as the laws about avoiding unclean meats) may follow those laws, may also keep the Commandments, but they then avoid all of the other religious laws. Such as keeping the Jewish Holy Day holidays. They might observe Sabbath, and not keep those other days holy. There appears to often be discrepancies and picking and choosing. This is one reason why I liked the Messianic Jewish Congregations. They tend to at least try and follow all the Jewish laws and the Commandments. But Jews also do not follow all of the Commandments. For example, the Commandments about sacrificing animals, it is not common for modern Jews to do this. I believe (maybe) it has something to do with the temple not being available, and the Most Holy Place not being available (don't quote me on any of this, but I was told Al Aqsa Mosque is on top of the area where the Most Holy Place should be and where the temple would need to be, and therefore they don't do ritual sacrifices anymore, because there are laws around how to properly perform the rituals and they are unable to do this in the correct location).

We have a fixed foundation date when the House for the LORD's worship was completed: BC 1004. Solomon is recorded in  1 Kings 6 as building a magnificent temple, which is described in this chapter. Seven years of meticulous building were occupied in the construction of this glorious House. Verses 1-6 speak of the dimensions and arrangements of this house - note that is largely modeled on the Tabernacle. Verse 7 mentions the wonderful skills of the stone masons. Verses 11-13 say that no matter how great the house was it would only be a true house for worship should Yahweh choose to dwell in it. His continuing presence depended on the faithfulness of His servants. Verses 14-22 describe the impressive materials that were used in this house. Verses 23-28 speak of the centre of worshipping - the Most Holy Place. Verses 29-37 reveal details of the walls and the entrance gates of this House. At an impossible time during the Babylonian siege Jeremiah was requested by his uncle's son, Hanameel, to buy a field in Anathoth; to which he complied. The field was bought, despite all evidence being contrary to this act. The times were oppressive the Babylonian was ravaging the land and Jerusalem was to soon be taken by Nebuchadnezzar. The normal contracts were drawn up for the field, witnesses attested by placing their signatures on the deeds. Those contracts were placed in an earthen vessel and buried at the site. In verses 16-25 Jeremiah prays to the Almighty for an explanation of what seems to be an impossibility: ie the prophet inheriting that field. Verses 26-35 tell how Jeremiah's Omnipotent Sovereign would fulfill His promise: NOTHING IS TOO HARD FOR THE ALMIGHTY. Never let us lose sight of this. What is impossible for us is easy for the LORD. Don't judge on the basis of how things appear to be.  What our Sovereign has revealed is certain. Those who trust Him despite appearances will with Jeremiah receive the rewards of faithfulness.  In Mark 6 Jesus returns to Nazareth where the previous 28 years of his life were spent. There above all other towns he should have been acclaimed. But this was not to be; as he declares "a prophet is without honour in his own country". In the words of John 1:12 "he came to his own and his own received him not". His capacity for healing here was limited by their unbelief. The twelve Apostles were sent out with a message for the hearers to repent. Their message was supported by the testimony of miracles. There follows a lengthy account of the death of John the Baptist - which includes Herod's respect for John's character. This was a trial for both the vicious Herod and the virtuous John. The Jezebel-like Salome secured John's death. The report of John's demise was devastating for Jesus, who sought solitude and time to reflect - his own death was but 12 months away. But crowds sought him and he had compassion for them, as they were "sheep lacking a shepherd". Joshua had asked the same request of Yahweh following Moses' death. 5,000 men, not counting women and children, are fed from five loaves and two fish. The twelve baskets of fragments are collected. The remains were greater than the initial fare. One lesson being that through Israel Messiah would feed the world. After this our Lord walks upon the Sea of Galilee indicating that he has power over the nations. And finally the boat into which Jesus enters reaches the shore. In this Jesus demonstrates that he would be the healer of the nations. More here  https://christadelphianvideo.org/christadelphian-daily-readings/

What's significant about the Temple's design? What was the Most Holy Place? How does the Temple point to Jesus? In today's episode, guest host Luke Simon, takes us on a tour of the Temple described in 1 Kings 7:13-51. If you're listening on Spotify, tell us about yourself and where you're listening from! Read the Bible with us in 2025! This year, we're exploring the Historical Books—Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, and 1 & 2 Kings. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: 1 Kings 7:13-51

This week Aaron continues our series on the book of Hebrews looking at chapter 10 verses 19-25 where the access to the Most Holy Place we have been given calls us to be a people of action.

It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun’s light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last. (Luke 23:44-46) As Jesus took His final breath, a miraculous and deeply symbolic event took place: the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Matthew and Mark tell us that this curtain was torn from top to bottom. This was an unmistakable detail showing it was God who tore it, not man. This wasn't just a tear in fabric, it was a tearing open of what had long been closed off. The temple curtain had separated the Holy of Holies (the very dwelling place of God) from everyone else. Only the high priest, once a year, and only with a blood sacrifice, could enter beyond that curtain. It was a vivid reminder that sin separates humanity from God. But now, through Jesus, that separation was finished. The final, perfect sacrifice had been made, the atonement was complete, and redemption was achieved. Jesus had fully taken on the wrath of God, satisfied the justice of God, and opened the way for sinners to come into the presence of God. The torn curtain was the visible sign of what had spiritually been accomplished on the cross. Hebrews 10:19–20 made that very clear, “We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, His body.” Walking in Freedom And yet, even today, even among professing Christians – it can be hard to live as though it is truly finished. Legalism creeps in. Pride tries to earn what grace has already given. We feel like we must contribute something to our salvation or prove ourselves worthy of it. But that's not the gospel. Salvation is not Jesus plus our efforts – it's Christ alone. The more we rest in His finished work, the more we walk in the freedom He died to give us. We are not called to work for our salvation but to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, because it has already been secured – we are now encouraged to take our faith seriously and be diligent in our pursuit of close relationship with God. Just as Jesus said, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit,” we too are called to commit ourselves fully to God, and not only our lives, but also our trust in His completed work. Romans 12:1 calls us to be living sacrifices, not striving for salvation, but surrendered in response to it. In a world striving to prove itself, may we be people who rest in completed work and remember the torn curtain – living in confidence that we are secure in Christ. Because truly – it is finished…in Christ alone.

Daily Dose of Hope July 22, 2025   Scripture - Matthew 27:32-56   Prayer:  Holy and Perfect God, Thank you for your divine plan.  Thank you for not giving up on your people and sending Jesus.  Your love and care for us is hard to comprehend.  Help us be a better reflection of your love in all we do.  Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we are diving into part two of Matthew 27, which includes the crucifixion and the death of Jesus.   Let's start with the crucifixion.  Matthew has a lot of detail.  We meet Simon of Cyrene who was forced to carry Jesus' cross.  While Simon certainly had no choice in the matter, I'm guessing his life was never the same after that.  He had carried the cross for the Savior of the world.  Jesus is offered wine with gall (which was very bitter and possibly offered to dull pain) but he tastes it and then refuses it.  His clothes are divided among the soldiers.  A sign is placed above him that says, “King of the Jews.”  And then there are all the insults hurled at him, from passers-by but also from those crucified next to him.  So much humiliation.   However, for those who witness Jesus' actual death, it is life-changing.  The sky gets dark and Jesus cries out the first line of Psalm 22, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” At the time, people would reference a psalm by stating the first line and the rest of the psalm would be assumed.  Psalm 22 was written by David, and it's a psalm that expresses abandonment and despair in the face of sorrow.    But this leads to some questions.  Did Jesus really feel abandoned by God at that moment on the cross?  I mentioned this in when we discussed Mark 15 and I think it's important to emphasize again. By quoting Psalm 22, Jesus is actually expressing confidence in the face of suffering.  He is trusting that God will ultimately deliver him. We gain confidence in this interpretation because it is faithful to our understanding of the Trinity as inseparable - one part of the Godhead can't abandon another part of the Godhead.  There is also a distinct union of Jesus' divine and human natures.  All of this comes together on the cross.  Let's read Psalm 22, verses 1-8...   My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?    Why are you so far from saving me,    so far from my cries of anguish? 2 My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer,    by night, but I find no rest. 3 Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One;    you are the one Israel praises. 4 In you our ancestors put their trust;    they trusted and you delivered them.5 To you they cried out and were saved;    in you they trusted and were not put to shame. 6 But I am a worm and not a man,    scorned by everyone, despised by the people. 7 All who see me mock me;    they hurl insults, shaking their heads. 8 “He trusts in the Lord,” they say,    “let the Lord rescue him. Let him deliver him,    since he delights in him.” And as the psalm continues (it is a bit long to real in full here), we see how the psalmist begins to express trust in the Lord and praise his name.  He knows that God will deliver him.  The bottom line seems to be that on the cross, Jesus bore the weight of our sin as the Son of God, but the Father did not literally abandon him, as that would divide the Trinity and undermine Christ's saving work.  Jesus knew that God would deliver him but also provide a way to deliver the whole world.  Right before Jesus breathed his last breath on the cross, the curtain in the Temple was torn down the middle. This is the curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (the Holiest of Holies) where the ark of the covenant was kept and the presence of God remained. When the curtain tore, it was a sign that the New Covenant was instituted. Because of Jesus' sacrifice (the final sacrifice for sin), those who believe in him can now go directly to the throne of God's grace. When holy God looks at us, he doesn't see our sinfulness but the blood of Christ. Thus, there are no more barriers that can separate us from God.  Hebrews 10 refers to this incredible phenomena...   Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22   Matthew also adds that when Jesus died, the earth also shook and that some who were already dead were brought back to life. The centurion who was guarding the tomb declared that this man, Jesus, must have been the Son of God.   There are two questions that are important to answer when discussing today's topic: Why was Jesus killed? and then, Why did Jesus die? They are both critical questions and the answers are different. I'm going to keep this brief but I want to at least address this.    Why was Jesus killed?  Well, a number of groups colluded to kill him.  First, Jesus was killed because the Jewish leaders felt threatened by him.  They feared him.  He threatened all they thought was right and they were unwilling to open their minds to God doing something differently.  They refused to believe that he was the Messiah, or we could say he wasn't the kind of Messiah that they were expecting.  And they didn't like the way he had the support of the common people.  But let's be clear, Jesus was also killed because his crucifixion was a political act by the Romans.  They didn't want anyone out there claiming to be king of the Jews.  They wanted to ensure that the only one with authority was the Roman government.   Now, why did Jesus die?  That's a whole different question.  Jesus died so that we could be cleansed of sin and walk intimately with a holy God.  Jesus, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy, became the final sacrifice for all sin for all time.  Ever since the fall, God had been on a mission to redeem the world.  The Law was part of that but the people could not keep the Law.  What the Law did was demonstrate how broken, flawed, and sinful us humans really are.  Something much more drastic was needed.  So, God sent Jesus.    Jesus was God with flesh on.  When we say that Jesus is the Son of God, that means that he was the second person of the Trinity, God himself.  He came to earth to live among us and demonstrate to us a new way of doing life, one in which God reigns as King.  Everything Jesus did – his whole life as well as his death and resurrection, was intended to demonstrate the fundamental values of God's Kingdom.  Of course, one of those values was love.  Jesus was and is love.  We see this on the cross.  We've read about all the human actions that led to the cross but this was God's divine plan.  Jesus knew it had to happen.  Jesus knew this was the only way.  So he went voluntarily to the cross.  He was God and he could have called a legion of angels down to save him.  But he didn't.  He went through with all the humiliation and torture.  For us.  For all of us.  He died for us.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Forthe first three hours, Jesus hung on the cross, the people mocked Him, theymade fun of Him, they laughed at Him, and they yelled at Him. Thenat the sixth hour, which would have been noon, verse 44 says there was darknessover all the earth until the ninth hour. The three hours of darkness was amiracle. It was not an eclipse because that would have been impossible duringPassover because it was the season of a full moon. It was a God-sent darkness, recognizingand also amplifying the fact that the whole world was in darkness, in sin andshame, and men were loving that darkness. Even when Jesus began His ministry, Matthew4:16 tells us: “The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to themwhich sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up”. Andnow when this darkness takes place, remember it is the time of the feast of thePassover. This reminds us of Exodus 10:21-22 which tells us of the last plague whichwas a darkness that was sent over all the land of Egypt for three days. Thiswas just before the Passover lamb was slain and the blood was applied to thedoorpost in Exodus 12. When Jesus was on the cross, three hours of darknesspreceded the death of God's Passover Lamb for the sins of the world (John1:29).  Nowfor three hours, the earth is shrouded in darkness as God made His Son tobecome sin for us who knew no sin, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:21. It was asthough all nature was sympathizing with the Creator as He suffered and died.  And so we see that Jesus was on the cross,dying on the cross as the Lamb of God in these three hours of darkness. Nowalso we believe that on the cross, Jesus, at this time, somewhere during thesethree hours of darkness, according to Matthew 27:45-46 and Mark 15:33-34, criedout, quoting from Psalm 22:1, "My God, My God, why have You forsakenMe?"  Tomorrow,I'm going to take more time to talk about how many times Jesus called HisFather. In fact, this last three hours on the cross ended when Jesus' lastprayer on the cross was, "Father, into Thy hands I commit My spirit."But during these three hours of darkness, I can't explain it totally. I cannever understand it completely, but as far as I'm concerned, as I've looked atand studied it over the years, it was during these the three hours of darkness thatJesus suffered an eternity of outer darkness, an eternity of hell.  TheBible says that hell is a place of outer darkness. Jesus went into outerdarkness. There in these three hours, the wrath of God was poured out on Him.He was bruised by God (Isaiah 53), as we talked about yesterday, for our sins.He suffered. He was separated from His Father. His favorite reference, the mostused word in the Gospel of John, is the word Father. Jesus loved His Father.His Father loved Him. But now His Father turned His back on His Son and pouredout His wrath upon Him to be crucified, to die, to shed His blood for my sinsand your sins.  Myfriend, what great love that God had. And that's why Jesus cried out, "MyGod, My God," somehow God turned His back on His Son. Again, I don'tunderstand it, but He did according to the Scripture. And then it says in verse45 that “the veil of the temple was torn in two”. The Gospel accounts ofMark and Matthew add, “from top to bottom”. My friend, this is becauseGod from heaven miraculously tore that veil that separated “The Most Holy Place”from everyone except the High Priest once a year.  Thismiracle announced to the priests and people that the way into God's presencewas open for all who would come to Him by faith through Jesus Christ (Hebrews9:1-10:25). No more do sinners need earthly temples, altars, sacrifices, orpriests, for all had now been fulfilled in the finished work of the Son of God. Areyou experiencing and enjoying this open access to our Father in heaven today? Godbless!

Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place once a year, showing that true access to God was still closed. But Jesus has opened the way so you can walk in freedom and confidence.

June 29 2025 Sunday Your Words Matter / Week 21 / T. Stacy Hayes #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word.  That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. Isaiah 53:5  Healing… Matthew 18:19  Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34  God is no respecter of persons “But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.” Hebrews 9:11-12 KJV “So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. With his own blood—not the blood of goats and calves—he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever.” Hebrews 9:11-12 NLT “But [that appointed time came] when Christ (the Messiah) appeared as a High Priest of the better things that have come and are to come. [Then] through the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with [human] hands, that is, not a part of this material creation, He went once for all into the [Holy of] Holies [of heaven], not by virtue of the blood of goats and calves [by which to make reconciliation between God and man], but His own blood, having found and secured a complete redemption (an everlasting release for us).” Hebrews 9:11-12 AMPC “how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.” Hebrews 9:14-15 KJV “Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant.” Hebrews 9:14-15 NLT “How much more surely shall the blood of Christ, Who by virtue of [His] eternal Spirit [His own preexistent divine personality] has offered Himself as an unblemished sacrifice to God, purify our consciences from dead works and lifeless observances to serve the [ever] living God? [Christ, the Messiah] is therefore the Negotiator and Mediator of an [entirely] new agreement (testament, covenant), so that those who are called and offered it may receive the fulfillment of the promised everlasting inheritance–since a death has taken place which rescues and delivers and redeems them from the transgressions committed under the [old] first agreement.” Hebrews 9:14-15 AMPC “Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;” Hebrews 10:19-20 KJV “And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place.” Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT “Therefore, brethren, since we have full freedom and confidence to enter into the [Holy of] Holies [by the power and virtue] in the blood of Jesus, By this fresh (new) and living way which He initiated and dedicated and opened for us through the separating curtain (veil of the Holy of Holies), that is, through His flesh,” Hebrews 10:19-20 AMPC “but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7 KJV “But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7 NLT “But if we [really] are living and walking in the Light, as He [Himself] is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses (removes) us from all sin and guilt [keeps us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations].” 1 John 1:7 AMPC “by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Romans 5:2 KJV “Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory.” Romans 5:2 NLT “Through Him also we have [our] access (entrance, introduction) by faith into this grace (state of God's favor) in which we [firmly and safely] stand. And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying the glory of God.” Romans 5:2 AMPC Romans 10:9-10  Salvation… Romans 10:17  Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30  Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16  God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2  Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1  No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior…  Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19  God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20  Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17  We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21  We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8  We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com  YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 …  Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical  Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“This kingdom of God life is not a matter of waking up each morning with a list of chores or an agenda to be tended to, left on our bedside table by the Holy Spirit for us while we slept. We wake up already immersed in a large story of creation and covenant, of Israel and Jesus, the story of Jesus and the stories that Jesus told. We let ourselves be formed by these formative stories, and especially as we listen to the stories that Jesus tells, get a feel for the way he does it, the way he talks, the way he treats people, the Jesus way.”~Eugene H. Peterson, Tell It Slant: A Conversation onthe Language of Jesus in His Stories and Prayers “When Jesus looked down from the cross, he didn't think ‘I am giving myself to you because you are so attractive to me.' No, he was in agony, and he looked down at us - denying him, abandoning him, and betraying him - and in the greatest act of love in history, he STAYED. He said, ‘Father, forgive them, they don't know what they are doing.' He loved us, not because we were lovely to him, but to make us lovely.”~Timothy Keller, The Meaning of Marriage “I think that the good and the great are only separated by the willingness to sacrifice.”~Kareem Abdul-Jabbar SERMON PASSAGEHebrews 9:1-14 (ESV) 1 Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly place of holiness. 2 For a tent was prepared, the first section, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence. It is called the Holy Place. 3 Behind the second curtain was a second section called the Most Holy Place, 4 having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron's staff that budded, and the tablets of the covenant. 5 Above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. 6 These preparations having thus been made, the priests go regularly into the first section, performing their ritual duties, 7 but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the unintentional sins of the people. 8 By this the Holy Spirit indicates that the way into the holy places is not yet opened as long as the first section is still standing 9 (which is symbolic for the present age). According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper, 10 but deal only with food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation. 11 But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) 12 he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. 13 For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, 14 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.

[2 Chronicles 5:11-14 NKJV] And it came to pass when the priests came out of the [Most] Holy [Place] (for all the priests who [were] present had sanctified themselves, without keeping to their divisions), [12] and the Levites [who were] the singers, all those of Asaph and Heman and Jeduthun, with their sons and their brethren, stood at the east end of the altar, clothed in white linen, having cymbals, stringed instruments and harps, and with them one hundred and twenty priests sounding with trumpets-- [13] indeed it came to pass, when the trumpeters and singers [were] as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, [saying]: "[For He is] good, For His mercy [endures] forever," that the house, the house of the LORD, was filled with a cloud, [14] so that the priests could not continue ministering because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of God.A ____________________ mentality is not the problem. It's a symptom of the real problem: _______________ from truth.[Matthew 11:27-29 NKJV] "All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and [the one] to whom the Son wills to reveal [Him]. [28] "Come to Me, all [you] who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.Transformative Rest comes when God to reveals the __________ about ___________ in the light of the truth about ___________.[John 21:11-17 NKJV] [Hebrews 3:12-15; 4:8-9 NKJV] Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; [13] but exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. [14] For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end, [15] while it is said: "Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion." [4:8] For if Joshua had given them rest, then He would not afterward have spoken of another day. [9] There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.The Promised Land of “Rest” is not a ___________ or a ___________, it's a ___________.[Exodus 20:18-21 NKJV] [Hebrews 10:11-14 NKJV] And every priest stands ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. [12] But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God, [13] from that time waiting till His enemies are made His footstool. [14] For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified.Jesus took our ___________ in the sacrifice so we could ___________ ___________ in His place of rest.[Hebrews 4:11-13 NKJV] Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. [12] For the word of God [is] living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. [13] And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things [are] naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we [must give] account.[Genesis 32:24-30 NKJV] 

Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in your midst? — 1 Corinthians 3:16 The Bible teaches that ever since we fell into sin and brought destruction into God's world, the Lord has been working out a way to live among us and make us holy again. This restoration project is accomplished through Jesus, who came to save us by paying the price of our sin, conquering death, and sending his Spirit to live in us. Jesus even declared himself to be the temple of God, like the Old Testament one—that sacred space where the presence of God came to dwell among his people (see 1 Kings 8; John 2:19-22). At Jesus' death, the temple curtain tore in two, from top to bottom (Mark 15:38), unveiling the Most Holy Place where God's presence was to reside. This symbolized the removal of the barrier between God and sinners and the restoration of fellowship with God for all who believe. Through the shed blood of Jesus, we are granted access into the Father's presence. And since Jesus is the new temple, his Spirit has come to live within the heart of every believer. So in this way we have become living temples of God. Rather than dwelling in a building, God now lives in his people—both individually and collectively. In our hearts God's Spirit works to cleanse and purify us, remaking us to be holy, shaping us to be like Jesus as we live for him. In what ways has God been shaping you lately? Spirit of God, purify us to live for you, that we may share your love with others, serving faithfully in all you have entrusted us to do. Amen.

“To you, Lord, I call; you are my Rock, do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who go down to the pit. Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place”. Psalm 28:1-2Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“To you, Lord, I call; you are my Rock, do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who go down to the pit. Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place”. Psalm 28:1-2Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daily Dose of Hope May 14, 2025 Day 3 of Week 7   Scripture - Mark 15:33-47   Prayer: Holy God, How amazing it is that we can come before you today.  You are God of all things, Lord of everything, and yet you care about each of us.  We give you glory and praise.  We thank you most of all for Jesus, who made it possible for us to walk hand in hand with a holy God.  Help us see today's Scripture through fresh eyes.  Keep teaching us, Lord.  Continue to reveal yourself to us.  We are open and grateful.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, a devotional connected to the daily reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  Today, we are finishing up Mark 15, which is the death of Jesus Christ.    The text detailing Jesus' death on the cross is what we call the Good Friday scripture.  It may seem odd that we would call the day that Jesus was crucified and died “good.” Apparently, the term came into common use in the 1200s because for us, it was a truly good day, as Jesus became the final sacrifice for all sin for all people for all time. As the full expression of God's love for us, Jesus voluntarily gave his life so that we could be reconciled to holy God.   The text starts with darkness.  How appropriate.  And it says that at the ninth hour, Jesus spoke his last words, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”  This statement was in reference to Psalm 22.  At the time, people would reference a psalm by stating the first line and the rest of the psalm would be assumed.  Psalm 22 was written by David, and it's a psalm that expresses abandonment and despair in the face of sorrow.    But this leads to some questions.  Did Jesus really feel abandoned by God at that moment on the cross?  And how would that work?  Here is a thought - by quoting Psalm 22, Jesus is actually expressing confidence in the face of suffering, trusting that God will ultimately deliver him. We gain confidence in this interpretation because it is faithful to our understanding of the Trinity as inseparable - one part of the Godhead can't abandon another part of the Godhead.  There is also a distinct union of Jesus' divine and human natures.  All of this comes together on the cross.  Let's read Psalm 22, verses 1-8...   My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?    Why are you so far from saving me,    so far from my cries of anguish? 2 My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer,    by night, but I find no rest. 3 Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One;    you are the one Israel praises. 4 In you our ancestors put their trust;    they trusted and you delivered them.5 To you they cried out and were saved;    in you they trusted and were not put to shame. 6 But I am a worm and not a man,    scorned by everyone, despised by the people. 7 All who see me mock me;    they hurl insults, shaking their heads. 8 “He trusts in the Lord,” they say,    “let the Lord rescue him. Let him deliver him,    since he delights in him.” And as the psalm continues (it is a bit long to real in full here), we see how the psalmist begins to express trust in the Lord and praise his name.  He knows that God will deliver him.  The bottom line seems to be that on the cross, Jesus bore the weight of our sin as the God-man, but the Father did not literally abandon him, as that would divide the Trinity and undermine Christ's saving work.  Jesus knew that God would deliver him but also provide a way to deliver the whole world.  Right before Jesus breathed his last breath on the cross, the curtain in the Temple was torn down the middle. This is the curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (the Holiest of Holies) where the ark of the covenant was kept and the presence of God remained. When the curtain tore, it was a sign that the New Covenant was instituted. Because of Jesus' sacrifice (the final sacrifice for sin), those who believe in him can now go directly to the throne of God's grace. When holy God looks at us, he doesn't see our sinfulness but the blood of Christ. Thus, there are no more barriers that can separate us from God.  Hebrews 10 refers to this incredible phenomena...   Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22   The chapter closes with Joseph of Arimathea taking Jesus' body and placing it in a tomb.  Joseph was a wealthy man and also a member of the Jewish ruling council.  It is implied that he is a believer in Jesus and if he tried to hide it before, there is no hiding it now.  Joseph has gone to great risk and expense to make sure Jesus' body is wrapped and buried.  Of course, at this point, they are deep in grief.  All feels heavy.  But Sunday is coming.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

The Old Testament tabernacle was meticulously crafted according to divine instruction and served as the central place of worship and communion between God and His people during Israel's wilderness journey. Far more than a portable sanctuary, the tabernacle was the tangible manifestation of God's presence dwelling among His covenant people. Its detailed construction, from the outer court to the Most Holy Place, was imbued with theological significance, providing the nation of Israel with rich symbolism in their worship. The alter of incense was a sacred piece of furniture in the tabernacle used for burning incense as a daily offering to the Lord. It was located just outside the Holy of Holies. For the New Testament believer, the altar of incense has tons of typological significance, with layers of prophetic meaning, holding truths that find their fullest expression in Christ. The tabernacle wasn't just for Israel but it testifies to the divine design that culminates in Christ's redemptive mission and relationship with mankind. To discuss the typology behind the altar of incense specifically, we have invited Brian Hedges, pastor at Heartland Baptist Fellowship in Harrisonville, MO and president of Word First Publishing.Visit https://www.lfbi.org/learnmore

For today’s installment of our 40 Days Meditation series, our brother William Cannon provides commentary on Heb 9:1-28. Listen below, download here, or search for Words from the Brothers on your favourite podcasting app. Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly place of holiness. For a tent was prepared, the first section, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence. It is called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain was a second section called the Most Holy Place, having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron’s staff that budded, and the tablets of the covenant. Above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. These preparations having thus been made, the priests go regularly into the first section, performing their ritual duties, but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the unintentional sins of the people. By this the Holy Spirit indicates that the way into the holy places is not yet opened as long as the first section is still standing (which is symbolic for the present age). According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper, but deal only with food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation. But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant. For where a will is involved, the death of the one who made it must be established. For a will takes effect only at death, since it is not in force as long as the one who made it is alive. Therefore not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood. For when every commandment of the law had been declared by Moses to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, with water and scarlet wool and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book itself and all the people, saying, “This is the blood of the covenant that God commanded for you.” And in the same way he sprinkled with the blood both the tent and all the vessels used in worship. Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins. Thus it was necessary for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these rites, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. Nor was it to offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters the holy places every year with blood not his own, for then he would have had to suffer repeatedly since the foundation of the world. But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him. Heb 9:1-28

Mark 11:1-11 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?' say, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.'” 4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, “What are you doing, untying that colt?” 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” 10 “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” 11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. FROM THE SERMON Cherubim - creatures with human heads, animal bodies, and often wings. They were guardians, standing outside of temples and other sacred spaces to serve as a warning. The Garden Genesis 3:22 - Humanity in its sinfulness is no threat to God, but a threat to itself and creation. Genesis 3:24 - The Cherubim guard the entrance to Eden for our own protection. From the book: The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross "It is wonderful to live with Him, but because of your sin you can't come in." The Curtain The account of building Solomon's Temple - 1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 3 Garden Iconography in the Temple: Carved with trees, flowers, and fruit (1 Kings 6:18, 29) Golden lampstand (Menorah) represents a tree (Exodus 25) The CURTAIN is covered in Cherubim Palm Sunday Mark 11:11 - Jesus visits the temple, remembers the garden, and sees the curtain. Discussion Questions Share a time when you or someone you know failed to heed a warning (funny or serious). What does the garden narrative in scripture (Genesis 2 and 3) tell us about God's design and intentions for humanity? How does the temple (or the tabernacle before it) point back to Eden? (Some examples were shared during the sermon, but there are more ways that weren't discussed as well!) Why would God have instructed the creation of the tabernacle and temple in a way that would reference and remind people of the Garden of Eden? How do you think Jewish people felt when they saw the curtain covered with Cherubim blocking the way to the Most Holy Place? When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the beginning of the week of his death, he went into the temple and looked around (Mark 11:11). What thoughts do you think went through his mind, knowing that his death was soon approaching? One way we worship God is by loving and caring for those who bear His image. What are some ways you could join others or your family in doing that this week to prepare to celebrate the resurrection on Easter?

Color: Purple Old Testament: Genesis 22:1–14 Psalm: Psalm 43; antiphon: v. 5 Epistle: Hebrews 9:11–15 Gospel: John 8:42–59 Gospel: John 8:46–59 Introit: Psalm 43:3–5; antiphon: vv. 1–2a Gradual: Psalm 143:9a, 10a; 18:48a, c Tract: Psalm 129:1–4 Jesus Is Our Redemption   In the temple Jesus said, “If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death” (John 8:51). For Jesus came to taste death for us—to drink the cup of suffering to the dregs in order that we might be released from its power. Clinging to His life-giving words, we are delivered from death's sting and its eternal judgment. Christ is our High Priest, who entered the Most Holy Place and with His own blood obtained everlasting redemption for His people (Heb. 9:11–15). He is the One who was before Abraham was, and yet is his descendant. He is the promised Son who carries the wood up the mountain for the sacrifice, who is bound and laid upon the altar of the cross. He is the ram who is offered in our place, who is willingly caught in the thicket of our sin, and who wears the crown of thorns upon His head (Gen. 22:1–14). Though Jesus is dishonored by the sons of the devil, He is vindicated by the Father through the cross. Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship

Hebrews 10:19-2319 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.

John 19:28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” (ESV)   Psalms 69:21 They gave me poison for food, and for my thirst they gave me sour wine to drink. (ESV)   Colossians 2:9 For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. (NLT)   Hebrews 4:15-16 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (ESV)   1. Jesus knows your feelings    1A. Jesus knows how you feel about disappointment   1B. Jesus knows how you feel about the death of someone you love   1C. Jesus knows how you feel when someone gossips and lies about you   1D. Jesus knows how you feel when you are betrayed   1E. Jesus knows how you feel when people doubt you   2. Jesus knows your temptations    Proverbs 29:25 Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety. (NLT)   2A. FEAR OF BEING EXPOSED   2B. FEAR OF REJECTION   2C. FEAR OF BEING HURT   2D. FEAR OF FAILURE   2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV)   3. Jesus knows you can approach the throne of grace with confidence   Hebrews 10:19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, (NIV)   Ephesians 3:12 Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence. (NLT)   1 John 3:19–22 This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence: 20 If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. 21 Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God 22 and receive from him anything we ask because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. (NIV)   4. Jesus knows if you come confidently to the throne, you will find help in your time of need   1 John 3:21–22 Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God 22 and receive from him anything we ask because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. (NIV)   Galatians 6:2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (NIV)

Hebrews 9:11 But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. 12 Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. 13 For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, 14 how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 

On this special episode of the Bible Savvy podcast, Pastor Clayton answers the questions you sent in! Why does the Bible allow someone to beat their slaves? How did the priests get around the veil into the Most Holy Place? Why did God want to kill Moses in Exodus 4? Do we approach God too … Continue reading "Bible Savvy Podcast | “Hey Clayton!” Part 7: Leviticus, Exodus, and More!"

Exodus 31 tells of the two skilled craftsman divinely equipped for the construction of the Tabernacle – Bezaleel (his name means “in the shadow of the Almighty”); and Aholiab (his name means “my Father's tent”). Bezaleel was skilled in metalworking. He made the furniture for the Tabernacle. Bezaleel is a type of the Messiah, as Moses tells us in the entirety of the 91st psalm. Aholiab had responsibility for the coverings of the Tabernacle and its embroidery – also for the veil between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place; and the clothes of the priests; as well as the cutting, polishing and engraving of the stones in the High Priest's breastplate (see Hebrews 8 verses 1-5 and 9 verses 1-5, 24-28, 10 verses 19-25). Verses 12-18 link the provision of the LORD's faithful servants (Bezaleel and Aholiab) with the providing of the Sabbath for His people(Mark 2 verses23-27). The Sabbath existed from the time of Creation, but it was made into an observable Feast at Sinai. It was Yahweh's sign between Himself and His covenant people for all time. Any of God's people who failed to observe the Sabbath were to be put to death. We are told that the lesson for us to cease from sinning and to serve our Sovereign on a daily basis. We must rest from our own interests and to choose those thoughts and ways that please our God (Isaiah 56:1-8; and Hebrews 4 verses 7-12). Moses tells Israel of the sanctity and seriousness of His Sabbath covenant with Israel. This covenant, says verse 18, was written by the finger of God. Chapter 32 speaks of yet another ascent into Mount Sinai to actually receive those two tables of stone upon which had been engraved the Ten Commandments.CONT READING... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-february-20th-exodus-31-32-psalm-89-1-corinthians-1-2/

Exodus 30 tells us of the altar of incense. Its dimensions and the materials of which it was made. Verses 1-10 tells us that it was a box made of acacia wood overlaid with gold. Around the top of the golden box was a crown of gold. Identical language is used for the protective parapet that was on the roof of every Jewish house – indicating that like the altar of incense the house was dedicated to prayer. The compounded incense was to be burnt to smoke. The fragrant incense described at the end of the chapter. The location of the incense altar was against the veil of the Most Holy Place. This tells us that prayer is essential for the believer to enter the presence of God (Psalm 141 verse 2; Revelation 8 verse 3). The writer to the Hebrews and the writer of the Kings both tell us that the altar's proximity to the Most Holy spoke of its function; and its place of belonging. Verses 11-16 describe the census tax to be paid by every redeemed Israelite – half a shekel of silver. The vital lesson stated that the poor shall not give less; nor the rich were not to give more. We are equal in the sight of the LORD; and wealth is neither a help, nor an impediment. All people equally need Yahweh's redemption. Verses 17-21 describe the bronze laver, signifying the need of baptism – or the cleansing from sin – of would be worshippers of the Almighty. The 22nd to the 38th verses speak of the fabrication of the anointing oil and the incense. That oil was to only be used in the anointing to his office of a prophet, priest, or king. And the incense oil was for offering exclusively upon the altar of incense. This tells us that the Father has laid down the conditions for acceptable worship. The penalty for disobedience was death.cont reading...https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-february-19th-exodus-30-psalms-87-88-mark-15-16/

Exodus 25 tells us of the Tabernacle itself. Verses 1-14 describe the curtains which served as the roof of the Tabernacle. Eleven curtains made of linen and embroidered with golden, blue and scarlet threads woven through the linen in a cherubic pattern. These would have been visible to the priests, who served in the Holy Place; and to the High Priest on the Day of Atonement, the one day each year when he entered the Most Holy Place. Three other layers covered the linen – a layer of goats hair dyed scarlet; a layer of rams' skins; and finally, on top of these a waterproof layer of what has been translated as, badgers' skins in the KJV; and was probably dugong skins. As well as forming the roof they covered the boards of acacia wood (themselves covered with beaten gold plates); at the sides and back end of the building, where the Most Holy Place was situated. The dugong covering would be seen by the priests in the courtyard and by the worshippers, who had brought their offerings. Verses 15-30 describe the acacia boards that formed the building. Like the covering curtains these were on both sides and at the rear of the structure. They were fastened to each other by bars which passed through coupling rings providing a unity for the frame and giving it rigidity and stability. It speaks of the role of the ecclesia, whereby believers support one another and are united in their goals. They were anchored in the ground by silver sockets – speaking of our hope is fixed and grounded by the redemptive work achieved in our Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 31-33 describe the veil, which separated the Most Holy Place from the zHoly Place. Again the veil, – which was linen and interwoven with threads of blue, purple, scarlet and gold – spoke of the work of Christ, in whom we can draw near to God. The writer to the Hebrews tells us that it spoke of the nature of Jesus, through which the divine characteristics inherited from his Father were woven (see Hebrews 9 verses 19-23). At the precise time Jesus died on the stake the veil in Herod's temple was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27 verse 51). This tearing of the temple curtain spoke of the removal of the sacrificial code of the Mosaic Law; and the bringing in of a better hope for faithful believers. Verses 34-35 provides a brief overview of some of the items of furniture within the Holy and Most Holy Places. The last verses of this chapter tells us of the entrance curtains through which the Tabernacle was entered. It was a linen screen of embroidered needlework with several similarities to the inner veil. It spoke of Christ, who is the door, or way of approaching the Father (John 10:1-6; 14:6).

When Jesus had cried out . . . in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. — Matthew 27:50-51 At the moment Jesus died, the curtain in the temple was torn open “from top to bottom.” The temple represented God's presence among his people. The innermost section was called the Most Holy Place, and God's presence was focused especially in that room. A thick curtain separated it from the rest of the temple, and only one person, the high priest, could go into that room once a year, on the Day of Atonement, after going through an elaborate cleansing ceremony (Leviticus 16). In a sense, that curtain was a lasting reminder of the barrier God had used to keep Adam and Eve from the garden when they had fallen into sin. It wasn't that God didn't want people in his presence. The problem was that because of sin, no person could survive in God's presence. God's holiness and purity cannot mix with human sinfulness. But Jesus' death for our sake changed all that. Hebrews 10:19 puts it this way: “We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body. . . .” Jesus took away our sin by his death, opening the way for us to approach God again and enjoy life in him. The way is open. Have you entered? Thank you, Jesus, for laying down your life to open the way for me to enjoy fellowship with God and abundant life with you now and forever! Amen.

Leviticus 16 Explained in Simple Terms: The Day of Atonement Leviticus 16 describes the most important day in the Israelite calendar—the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). This was the one day each year when the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place (inside the Tabernacle) to make a special sacrifice for the sins of the people. 1. Entering God's Presence (Verses 1-4) •After the death of Aaron's two sons (who died for approaching God in the wrong way), God told Moses to instruct Aaron (the High Priest) on how to enter the Most Holy Place properly. •Aaron could only enter once a year after making the right sacrifices. •He had to wash himself, wear special priestly clothes, and bring offerings. 2. The Sin Offerings (Verses 5-10) •Aaron took two goats and one bull. •The bull was for his own sins and his family's sins. •The two goats were for the people's sins. One was sacrificed, and the other was called the scapegoat. 3. Cleansing the Most Holy Place (Verses 11-19) •Aaron sacrificed the bull for himself first. •Then, he sprinkled the blood of the bull and goat inside the Most Holy Place to cleanse it from the people's sins. •This showed that sin separates people from God and must be atoned for (paid for). 4. The Scapegoat (Verses 20-22) •Aaron placed his hands on the second goat (the scapegoat) and confessed the sins of the Israelites over it. •The goat was then sent into the wilderness, symbolizing the removal of their sins. 5. Final Cleansing and Instructions (Verses 23-34) •Aaron washed again and changed into his regular priestly clothes. •The remains of the sacrificed animals were taken outside the camp and burned. •The Day of Atonement was to be a holy day of rest and fasting for the Israelites every year. Why This Matters The Day of Atonement showed that sin separates people from God, but through sacrifice and repentance, they could be cleansed. It foreshadowed Jesus Christ, who became the ultimate sacrifice to take away sin once and for all (Hebrews 9:11-14). Key Takeaway: This chapter teaches about God's holiness, the seriousness of sin, and His mercy in providing a way for people to be forgiven.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Leviticus 16:3-106 "Aaron is to offer the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household. 7 Then he is to take the two goats and present them before the Lord at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. 8 He is to cast lots for the two goats--one lot for the Lord and the other for the scapegoat.   CONTEXTTwo Goats—*The goat for the Lord*The goat for the scapegoat*Azazel—Take him away; A weapon in the hand of the enemy 9 Aaron shall bring the goat whose lot falls to the Lord and sacrifice it for a sin offering. 10 But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the Lord to be used for making atonement by sending it into the desert as a scapegoat. The Goat for the Lord*Malah—Laying on of hands*The Press—Gethsemene*It is finished*Don't touch me*Washing the hands Leviticus 16:20-2220 "When Aaron has finished making atonement for the Most Holy Place, the Tent of Meeting and the altar, he shall bring forward the live goat. 21 He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites--all their sins--and put them on the goat's head. He shall send the goat away into the desert in the care of a man appointed for the task. 22 The goat will carry on itself all their sins to a solitary place; and the man shall release it in the desert. Leviticus 16:26The man who releases the goat as a scapegoat must wash his clothes and bathe himself with water; afterward he may come into the camp. The Goat for Azazel*Malah—Laying on of hands*Attaching sins to the head*The walk through the crowd*Releasing into the desert*The cord turns white He then fastened a scarlet woolen thread to the head of the goat "for Azazel"; and laying his hands upon it again, recited the following confession of sin and prayer for forgiveness: "O Lord, I have acted iniquitously, trespassed, sinned before You: I, my household, and the sons of Aaron Your holy ones. O Lord, forgive the iniquities, transgressions, and sins that I, my household, and Aaron's children, Your holy people, committed before You… ….as is written in the law of Moses, Your servant, 'for on this day He will forgive you, to cleanse you from all your sins before the Lord; you will be clean.'" John 19:14-1514 It was the day of Preparation of Passover Week, about the sixth hour. "Here is your king," Pilate said to the Jews. 15 But they shouted, "Take him away! Take him away! Crucify him!" Matthew 27:2424 When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. "I am innocent of this man's blood," he said. "It is your responsibility!" Hebrews 10:11-1211 Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God.  1 John 2:1-2 (NIV)1 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense--Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. APPLICATION POINTS1)The hands have been washed2)The cord has turned white3)The priest has sat down4)The goat has left the building

Leviticus 16:3-106 "Aaron is to offer the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household. 7 Then he is to take the two goats and present them before the Lord at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. 8 He is to cast lots for the two goats--one lot for the Lord and the other for the scapegoat.   CONTEXTTwo Goats—*The goat for the Lord*The goat for the scapegoat*Azazel—Take him away; A weapon in the hand of the enemy 9 Aaron shall bring the goat whose lot falls to the Lord and sacrifice it for a sin offering. 10 But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the Lord to be used for making atonement by sending it into the desert as a scapegoat. The Goat for the Lord*Malah—Laying on of hands*The Press—Gethsemene*It is finished*Don't touch me*Washing the hands Leviticus 16:20-2220 "When Aaron has finished making atonement for the Most Holy Place, the Tent of Meeting and the altar, he shall bring forward the live goat. 21 He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites--all their sins--and put them on the goat's head. He shall send the goat away into the desert in the care of a man appointed for the task. 22 The goat will carry on itself all their sins to a solitary place; and the man shall release it in the desert. Leviticus 16:26The man who releases the goat as a scapegoat must wash his clothes and bathe himself with water; afterward he may come into the camp. The Goat for Azazel*Malah—Laying on of hands*Attaching sins to the head*The walk through the crowd*Releasing into the desert*The cord turns white He then fastened a scarlet woolen thread to the head of the goat "for Azazel"; and laying his hands upon it again, recited the following confession of sin and prayer for forgiveness: "O Lord, I have acted iniquitously, trespassed, sinned before You: I, my household, and the sons of Aaron Your holy ones. O Lord, forgive the iniquities, transgressions, and sins that I, my household, and Aaron's children, Your holy people, committed before You… ….as is written in the law of Moses, Your servant, 'for on this day He will forgive you, to cleanse you from all your sins before the Lord; you will be clean.'" John 19:14-1514 It was the day of Preparation of Passover Week, about the sixth hour. "Here is your king," Pilate said to the Jews. 15 But they shouted, "Take him away! Take him away! Crucify him!" Matthew 27:2424 When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. "I am innocent of this man's blood," he said. "It is your responsibility!" Hebrews 10:11-1211 Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God.  1 John 2:1-2 (NIV)1 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense--Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. APPLICATION POINTS1)The hands have been washed2)The cord has turned white3)The priest has sat down4)The goat has left the building

'The high priest carries the blood of animals into the Most Holy Place as a sin offering, but the bodies are burned outside the camp. And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood. Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. ' Hebrews 13:11-13

In this episode of Bible Answers Live, Pastor Doug and Pastor Ross discuss with callers the timing of our salvation and our judgment, God the Father's name and Jesus' observance of the Sabbath. Join us ! Every week callers from around the world have their questions answered straight from the Bible ! Come and study with us ! 1.- Is the current condition of United states politics an indicator of the perilous times that Jesus is talking about in Matthew 24 verse 12 ? 2.- Is salvation a futuristic thing, or is there a Scripture in the Bible that says you are saved at the time of conversion ? 3.- Is Deuteronomy 12 verse 15 saying that all meats are clean ? 4.- Are the following Scriptures relevant for today ? Daniel 2:21, Romans 13:11 and Hosea 8:2-4. 5.- If Jesus' name is Jehovah, what is God the Father's name ? 6.- Do demons need a human body to be around people ? 7.- When is the Book of Life opened, and people judged from it ? 8.- Does Scripture provide support for elective medical procedures ? 9.- Should a woman cover her head during prayer ? 10.- Did Jesus keep the Sabbath after His resurrection ? 11.- What does 1 Corinthians 6 verse 9 mean when describing idolaters ? 12.- Did Jesus go to the Holy Place, or the Most Holy Place according to Hebrews 9 verse 12 ? 13.- Does the Bible provide guidance for avoiding “bad company” ? 14.- What does 2 Samuel 22 verse 30 mean ? 15.- Can you explain the 70 weeks of prophecy in Daniel ? 16.- Ephesians 1 verse 13 says we are sealed with the Holy Spirit. Is this the same seal mentioned in the book of Revelation ? 17.- How do I preach without making people feel judged ? 18.- Did Lazarus die a second time or did he ascend to Heaven ?