Podcasts about Nazirite

Today, we'll conclude the account of Samson, one of Israel's judges. As you may recall from the last episode, Samson was supposed to be dedicated to the Lord as a Nazirite from birth, and yet he did very little to keep that vow. We pick up his story with the account of his interactions with a Philistine woman named Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil. As a representative of Israel, it's no surprise that in the end, he falls to the strength of another nation because he gives into his passions. In the end, however, the angel's prediction is true: he will begin to save Israel from the power of the Philistines.Judges 16 - 1:01 . Judges 17 - 9:24 . Judges 18 - 11:46 . Psalm 82 - 18:24 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, we'll begin to look at the life of Samson, a man who kept the Nazirite vow from his birth, until he didn't, and violated it several times over. In short, Samson is a picture of Israel in one person. Meant to be set apart and holy, he instead takes his vows and his God lightly, defiling himself over and over. A Nazirite was supposed avoid dead bodies, yet he eats honey from a lion's carcass and uses a jawbone for a weapon. A Nazirite was supposed to abstain from wine, yet Samson threw a drinking party for the Philistines. And, in our next episode, the last vow to go is that of not cutting his hair, which he hands over to a Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil.Judges 13 - 1:00 . Judges 14 - 5:43 . Judges 15 - 11:06 . Psalm 81 - 15:47 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

ALC Recommends: Mother's Day is this Sunday!“Again the Israelites did evil in the Lord's sight, so the Lord handed them over to the Philistines, who oppressed them for forty years. In those days a man named Manoah from the tribe of Dan lived in the town of Zorah. His wife was unable to become pregnant, and they had no children. The angel of the Lord appeared to Manoah's wife and said, “Even though you have been unable to have children, you will soon become pregnant and give birth to a son. So be careful; you must not drink wine or any other alcoholic drink nor eat any forbidden food. You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and his hair must never be cut. For he will be dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. He will begin to rescue Israel from the Philistines.”- Judges‬ ‭13‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬

In short, Samson is a picture of Israel in one person. Meant to be set apart and holy, he instead takes his vows and his God lightly, defiling himself over and over. A Nazirite was supposed avoid dead bodies, yet he eats honey from a lion's carcass and uses a jawbone for a weapon. A Nazirite was supposed to abstain from wine, yet Samson threw a drinking party for the Philistines. The last vow to go is that of not cutting his hair, which he hands over to a Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil. In the end, the angel's prediction is true: he will begin to save Israel from the power of the Philistines.Judges 13 – 1:14 . Judges 14 – 6:20 . Judges 15 – 10:52 . Judges 16 - 15:52 . Psalm 75 - 23:30 . Psalm 76 – 24:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today's Scripture passages are Numbers 5 - Numbers 6 | Galatians 1.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Numbers 6 is a chapter in the Book of Numbers in the Bible that outlines the Nazirite vow and contains the well-known priestly blessing. Here's a breakdown of the key elements of the chapter: 1. The Nazirite Vow (Verses 1–21) The chapter begins with God's instructions to Moses regarding the Nazirite vow, a special commitment that an Israelite could make to dedicate themselves to the Lord for a specific period. This vow involved three key restrictions: •No consumption of wine or strong drink – This included any grape-related products, such as vinegar, juice, or even fresh or dried grapes. •No cutting of hair – The Nazirite was to let their hair grow long as a sign of their consecration to God. •Avoiding contact with the dead – Even if a close family member died, the Nazirite was not to come near a corpse, as this would make them unclean. If the vow was accidentally broken (e.g., by coming into contact with a dead body), the person had to perform a purification ritual and restart the vow. At the completion of the vow, the Nazirite had to bring offerings to the tabernacle, shave their head, and burn the hair as part of the sacrifice, symbolizing the end of their period of separation to the Lord. 2. The Priestly Blessing (Verses 22–27) The latter part of the chapter contains the priestly blessing, a beautiful and well-known passage where God instructs Aaron and his sons to bless the Israelites: “The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24–26, NKJV) This blessing is a powerful prayer for protection, grace, and peace. It remains one of the most widely used benedictions in Christian and Jewish traditions today. Themes and Significance •Dedication to God – The Nazirite vow shows a special way of devotion beyond regular worship, illustrating how people could set themselves apart for God. •Holiness and Purity – The restrictions emphasize spiritual purity and separation from worldly influences. •God's Blessing – The priestly blessing highlights God's care, favor, and peace upon His people, showing His desire to be in relationship with them. Numbers 6 reminds us of the importance of commitment to God and the blessings that come from living under His favor. Would you like a deeper analysis or a reflection on how this chapter applies to modern faith and practice?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Verses 16 to 31 of Judges 16. She tormented him with her nagging day after day until he was sick to death of it. Finally, Samson shared his secret with her. “My hair has never been cut,” he confessed, “for I was dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as anyone else.” Delilah realized he had finally told her the truth, so she sent for the Philistine rulers. “Come back one more time,” she said, “for he has finally told me his secret.” So the Philistine rulers returned with the money in their hands. Delilah lulled Samson to sleep with his head in her lap, and then she called in a man to shave off the seven locks of his hair. In this way she began to bring him down, and his strength left him. Then she cried out, “Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!” When he woke up, he thought, “I will do as before and shake myself free.” But he didn't realize the Lord had left him. So the Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes. They took him to Gaza, where he was bound with bronze chains and forced to grind grain in the prison. But before long, his hair began to grow back. The Philistine rulers held a great festival, offering sacrifices and praising their god, Dagon. They said, “Our god has given us victory over our enemy Samson!” When the people saw him, they praised their god, saying, “Our god has delivered our enemy to us! The one who killed so many of us is now in our power!” Half drunk by now, the people demanded, “Bring out Samson so he can amuse us!” So he was brought from the prison to amuse them, and they had him stand between the pillars supporting the roof. Samson said to the young servant who was leading him by the hand, “Place my hands against the pillars that hold up the temple. I want to rest against them.” Now the temple was completely filled with people. All the Philistine rulers were there, and there were about 3,000 men and women on the roof who were watching as Samson amused them. Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me again. O God, please strengthen me just one more time. With one blow let me pay back the Philistines for the loss of my two eyes.” Then Samson put his hands on the two center pillars that held up the temple. Pushing against them with both hands, he prayed, “Let me die with the Philistines.” And the temple crashed down on the Philistine rulers and all the people. So he killed more people when he died than he had during his entire lifetime. Later his brothers and other relatives went down to get his body. They took him back home and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol, where his father, Manoah, was buried. Samson had judged Israel for twenty years.

Having been introduced to the characters and the historical backdrop, we discovered a family residing during the era of the judges. Samuel emerged at a parallel time to Samson, both boys conceived as miraculous gifts and destined to deliver Israel from the clutches of their adversaries. This week, we focus on Hannah, who was grieving while in the sanctuary of God, burdened by a sister-wife and feeling abandoned by the Lord. Despite her affliction, she found solace in the presence of the Lord, fervently pleading for His favor and a son, a son she would dedicate to the Lord and His house. Samuel was the first Saul, the authentic Saul—the one "asked of the Lord." In this narrative, Hannah exemplifies piety and anticipation, seeking the Lord's will for her deepest desire—a son who could serve the Lord in His house. God answered her prayer, and once the boy was weaned, Samuel was dedicated as a Nazirite, destined to lead Israel despite their persistent rebellions. All men yearn for a deliverer, and the measure of one's righteousness is tied to the kind of deliverer one seeks.

Sermon Series: “The Incarnation: God's Unwavering Commitment to His World” Sermon Text: Luke 1:5-17, 76-79 Sermon Title: “Love Means Always Saying You're Sorry” Sermon Slides: SLIDE 1 – Sermon Title Slide SLIDE 2 – Today's Big Idea: True Love Means True Repentance. But True Repentance Isn't our Chore … it's God's Grace! SLIDE 3 – Point 1: God's Unwavering Commitment … Sends His True Prophet. (Lk. 1:5-17) SLIDE 4 – 1 Chronicles 24:1-8 – “The divisions of the sons of Aaron were these. The sons of Aaron: Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. But Nadab and Abihu died before their father and had no children, so Eleazar and Ithamar became the priests … David organized them according to the appointed duties in their service … They divided them by lot, all alike, for there were sacred officers and officers of God … the eighth [lot fell] to Abijah.” SLIDE 5 – Insert a Copy of Point #1 of Sermon SLIDE 6 – Numbers 6:1-3 – “And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, When either a man or a woman makes … the vow of a Nazirite, to separate himself to the Lord, he shall separate himself from wine and strong drink.” SLIDE 7 – Ephesians 5:18 – “Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.” SLIDE 8 – Insert a Copy of Point #1 of Sermon SLIDE 9 – Point 2: God's Uncompromising Communion … Requires Our True Repentance. (Lk. 1:76-79) SLIDE 10 – Romans 12:1 – “I appeal to you therefore … by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” SLIDE 11 – Romans 2:4 – “Do you presume on the riches of his kindness … not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” SLIDE 12 – Insert a Copy of Point #2 of Sermon SLIDE 13 – 2 Corinthians 7:10 – “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.” SLIDE 14 – Four Uses of This Sermon for Our Church and Lives. SLIDE 15 – Christmas Isn't About Sentiment … It's About Our Salvation. SLIDE 16 – Our Relationship with God Comes by Subtraction, not Just Addition. SLIDE 17 – Where Do We Need to Repent … To Prepare this Advent? SLIDE 18 – John is God's Preparation … for Jesus, God's Incarnation.

A Liturgy for Those Struggling in Secret Father, I confess that I've been struggling. With nowhere else to turn, I come to You. My wounds have festered deep within the dark— They're veiled in shadows, covered by façades. Yahweh El Roi, You are the God who sees me. Only You know the missteps I have hidden. Only You see the sins I keep secret. Will You make a way where I see no way out? Compassionate and merciful Jesus, I know my shame was nailed upon the cross. Hold my hand as I step fully into light, And grant me courage to walk in Your ways. SAMSON - THE WEAKEST MAN IN THE WORLD Resurrection out of the Chains of Sexual Lust Judges 13:5 For behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazrite to God from the womb, and he shall begin to save Israel from the hand of the Philistines.” Judges 16:1-31 One day Samson went to Gaza, where he saw a prostitute. He went in to spend the night with her. 2 The people of Gaza were told, “Samson is here!” So they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the city gate. They made no move during the night, saying, “At dawn we'll kill him.” 3 But Samson lay there only until the middle of the night. Then he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate, together with the two posts, and tore them loose, bar and all. He lifted them to his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron. 4 Some time later, he fell in love with a woman in the Valley of Sorek whose name was Delilah. 5 The rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, “See if you can lure him into showing you the secret of his great strength and how we can overpower him so we may tie him up and subdue him. Each one of us will give you eleven hundred shekels[a] of silver.” 6 So Delilah said to Samson, “Tell me the secret of your great strength and how you can be tied up and subdued.” 7 Samson answered her, “If anyone ties me with seven fresh bowstrings that have not been dried, I'll become as weak as any other man.” 8 Then the rulers of the Philistines brought her seven fresh bowstrings that had not been dried, and she tied him with them. 9 With men hidden in the room, she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” But he snapped the bowstrings as easily as a piece of string snaps when it comes close to a flame. So the secret of his strength was not discovered. 10 Then Delilah said to Samson, “You have made a fool of me; you lied to me. Come now, tell me how you can be tied.” 11 He said, “If anyone ties me securely with new ropes that have never been used, I'll become as weak as any other man.” 12 So Delilah took new ropes and tied him with them. Then, with men hidden in the room, she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” But he snapped the ropes off his arms as if they were threads. 13 Delilah then said to Samson, “All this time you have been making a fool of me and lying to me. Tell me how you can be tied.” He replied, “If you weave the seven braids of my head into the fabric on the loom and tighten it with the pin, I'll become as weak as any other man.” So while he was sleeping, Delilah took the seven braids of his head, wove them into the fabric 14 and tightened it with the pin. Again she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” He awoke from his sleep and pulled up the pin and the loom, with the fabric. 15 Then she said to him, “How can you say, ‘I love you,' when you won't confide in me? This is the third time you have made a fool of me and haven't told me the secret of your great strength.” 16 With such nagging she prodded him day after day until he was sick to death of it. 17 So he told her everything. “No razor has ever been used on my head,” he said, “because I have been a Nazirite dedicated to God from my mother's womb. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as any other man.” 18 When Delilah saw that he had told her everything, she sent word to the rulers of the Philistines, “Come back once more; he has told me everything.” So the rulers of the Philistines returned with the silver in their hands. 19 After putting him to sleep on her lap, she called for someone to shave off the seven braids of his hair, and so began to subdue him. And his strength left him. 20 Then she called, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” He awoke from his sleep and thought, “I'll go out as before and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. 21 Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes and took him down to Gaza. Binding him with bronze shackles, they set him to grinding grain in the prison. 22 But the hair on his head began to grow again after it had been shaved. The Death of Samson 23 Now the rulers of the Philistines assembled to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their god and to celebrate, saying, “Our god has delivered Samson, our enemy, into our hands.” 24 When the people saw him, they praised their god, saying, “Our god has delivered our enemy into our hands, the one who laid waste our land and multiplied our slain.” 25 While they were in high spirits, they shouted, “Bring out Samson to entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison, and he performed for them. When they stood him among the pillars, 26 Samson said to the servant who held his hand, “Put me where I can feel the pillars that support the temple, so that I may lean against them.” 27 Now the temple was crowded with men and women; all the rulers of the Philistines were there, and on the roof were about three thousand men and women watching Samson perform. 28 Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes.” 29 Then Samson reached toward the two central pillars on which the temple stood. Bracing himself against them, his right hand on the one and his left hand on the other, 30 Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” Then he pushed with all his might, and down came the temple on the rulers and all the people in it. Thus he killed many more when he died than while he lived. 31 Then his brothers and his father's whole family went down to get him. They brought him back and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of Manoah his father. He had led Israel twenty years. HOW WE SEE PEOPLE IS IMPORTANT TO GOD. “To look upon a woman lustfully is to separate her body from her soul, and thus to bring about death. The death which is summoned is a spiritual one, but it comes to him who would attempt to bring about such a divorce of body and soul.“ OUR DESTINATION DECISIONS ARE CRITICAL LUST MAKES SMART PEOPLE STUPID HERE WAS THE UNDOING OF SAMSON: HE WAS STRONG ON THE OUTSIDE AND WEAK ON THE INSIDE SEXUAL SIN BLINDS US TO CONSEQUENCE GOD'S GRACE COMES BEFORE WE EVEN SEE IT THE CROSS IS THE GATEWAY TO RESURRECTION Matthew 16:24-26 24 Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. 26 For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?

Well it was typically right around this time of year when, every year, as a kid, our family would pack up our bags, load up the car, and travel up to Lutsen, Minnesota. Anyone ever been up to Lutsen before? It's a beautiful area. It's also an area that's four hours away, by car, from the cities. Which, for me as a kid, might as well have been eternity.So, like most kids, in an effort to offset the boredom that I would experience during the four-hour long drives, I began to develop and perfect my road trip set up, which involved stuffing all my drawing supplies into the cupholder and against the window to my left, placing my CDs and no-skip Sony Walkman to my right, usually on top of an overhanging suitcase of some sort, and then stacking a pile of Sports Illustrated for Kids magazines about a foot tall on the floor below my feet. I'd get that set up just right, squeeze on into what remained of the seat, and then buckle in for the journey. And it was typically about 20-30 minutes later when I'd begin wonder, “Why are we still parked in the driveway?” “Why have we yet to go anywhere?” I mean, I'm clearly ready to go. Why isn't this car moving yet?” I'm guessing you've been there before. And if so, then believe it or not, you know something of what readers of the Bible can, at times, experience when reading through these first few chapters in the book of Numbers — a kind of fidgeting, watch-checking, growing sense of impatience.Why We Grow ImpatientAnd there's a reason for that. The fact that we've now, by this time in the narrative, been gearing up to go somewhere for quite some time. What I mean is that, ever since Exodus chapter 19, following God's miraculous rescue of his people, the Israelites, from Egypt, we've been parked in the wilderness of Sinai. And not with intention of staying there indefinitely. But, with the intention of eventually moving on from there, to the Promised Land – the land of Canaan. And yet, as Exodus comes to its close and gives way to Leviticus, and Leviticus comes to its close and gives way to Numbers, in Sinai we yet remain. And so, as readers of the story, we begin to wonder, “Why are we still parked in the driveway?” “Why have we yet to go anywhere?” I mean, I'm clearly ready to go. Why isn't this thing moving yet?”But here's where our true colors really show, as a people. Here's where it becomes clear that either we've already forgotten the significance of all that's been going on throughout this stop in Sinai, or we never really grasped the significance of it all in the first place. Here's what I mean: it was while in Sinai, that God made a covenant with this people and gave them the Law (Exodus Ch. 20-24). And it was while in Sinai, that God took up his earthly residence in the Tabernacle (picture a somewhat large, tent-like structure), filling it with his glory as a cloud (Ex. 40). It was while in Sinai that this Tabernacle (dwelling place of God) became the Tent of Meeting between God and his people. And that was through the establishment of the Priesthood and the sacrificial system. And so, had the people not lingered in Sinai, and had not all the events of the second half of Exodus and the entirety of Leviticus occurred while here in Sinai, then we'd be looking at quite a different picture at this point. A people who still have no formal relationship with God, still have no experience of nearness to God, and still have no covering for their sin before God, heading into the Promised Land alone. You know why we so often get impatient as a people? So often ask, “God, why are we still parked here?” It's because though we do, by nature, desire comfort, and though we do, by nature, desire prosperity, and though we do, by nature, desire to dwell in the Promised Land, the land flowing with milk and honey – we do not by nature desire God. We desire his stuff, we desire his space. And we think our salvation lies in getting it, rather than getting him. We disregard the ultimate treasure, God himself, and go out in search of pocket-change instead. It is a mercy, absolute mercy, brothers and sisters, that God parks us from time-to-time in the wilderness. It's there we often realize that what we really need in life is God. And if we gain him, we will have gained all we ever needed. Israel was parked in Sinai for that: Creation of a relationship with God through covenant, experience of that relationship in God's presence, a presence enabled by the mediation of the priests and the sacrificial system.Now, here's the thing though. By Numbers 1, all those boxes have been checked. And we're still not going anywhere. We're going to yet stay here in Sinai till Numbers chapter 10. Why? With covenant made, Tabernacle created, sacrifices in motion — What is it that's still lacking?We're going to attempt to answer that question through the remainder of this sermon. And we'll do so, Lord-willing, with the help of three R's: Roles, relationships, and realities.1. RolesLet's begin with roles. And this first point will be our longest of the three. Roles. God is going to assign roles for his people to play throughout their journey in the wilderness. First one we're going to look at is that of the priest. You can see in Numbers 3:1-3,“These are the generations of Aaron and Moses at the time when the Lord spoke with Moses on Mount Sinai. These are the names of the sons of Aaron: Nadab the firstborn, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. 3 These are the names of the sons of Aaron, the anointed priests, whom he ordained to serve as priests.”Now, if you were with us back in the fall of 2022 for our series through Leviticus, you might remember that the role of the priest involved carrying out the daily sacrifices upon the altar of the Tabernacle — sacrifices which served as a necessary covering for both their sins as well as the sins of the people. But the people who could qualify for this role represented only a very small percentage of the total population of Israel. From all those belonging to the 12 tribes we narrow down to those belonging to one tribe, that of Levi. From those belonging to the tribe of Levi, we narrow down to descendants of Aaron. Is it only this small percentage of the people who get a role to play? Is it the priests, and then everyone else simply along for the ride? Enter, a new role, the Levite.LevitesTurn back with me to Numbers 1:50-51,“But appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the testimony, and over all its furnishings, and over all that belongs to it. They are to carry the tabernacle and all its furnishings, and they shall take care of it and shall camp around the tabernacle. When the tabernacle is to set out, the Levites shall take it down, and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up. And if any outsider comes near, he shall be put to death.” So here's another role, that of the Levite, whose job it is to set up, take down, transport, and guard the Holy Tabernacle at which the priests offer the sacrifices. So the Priests, the smallest group, they carry out the sacrifices at the Tabernacle. The Levites (a slightly larger group — those remaining from the tribe of Levi who were not also in the line of Aaron), they guard and carry the Tabernacle. So the funnel widens once. It's going to widen again. Turn back with me, once more, to the very beginning of Numbers, chapter 1:1-3.SoldierNumbers 1:1-3,“The Lord spoke to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the tent of meeting, on the first day of the second month, in the second year after they had come out of the land of Egypt, saying, 2 “Take a census of all the congregation of the people of Israel, by clans, by fathers' houses, according to the number of names, every male, head by head. 3 From twenty years old and upward, all in Israel who are able to go to war…”Here's a third role — that of soldier. This represents the largest group, pulling from the remaining eleven of the twelve total tribes. And as we can see down in verse 46 of chapter one, the total number of those who receive this role is 603,550. Which, quick note here…When God first called Abraham and said, “I'll make of you a people, like the stars in the sky and the sand on the shore for number,” does anyone know how many descendants he had at that time? …Zero. So, book of Genesis, God says “I'll provide for you a nearly uncountable number of descendants…beginning at…zero.” And, wouldn't you know, a few hundred years later, here in Numbers, more than half a million descendants of Abraham walking around, and that's only including the men in the camp who are old enough for war. Does God keep his promises?So priests, Levites, soldiers — three distinct roles for the people of God to receive prior to heading out on their journey. Three distinct roles that though very different from one another, clearly depend upon one another in order to function. For, how are the priests going to carry out the sacrifices at the Tabernacle if the Levites fail to guard the Tabernacle and it ends up becoming defiled? And how are the Levites going to guard the Tabernacle, if the soldiers fail to guard them when enemy armies approach?And how are either the Levites or the soldiers going to dwell anywhere near the camp, and guard anything at all, if the priests fail to carry out the daily sacrifices? See in this design, the priest cannot say to the Levite “I have no need of you.” Neither can the Levite say to the soldier, “I've no need of you.” Rather, it is when and only when all of these roles are working properly together, that the camp of Israel will be able to move forward as one — out of Sinai, into the Promised Land. How about us? How about our camp? Do we have a role to play here? God says we do. He says in Ephesians 4 that there are certain roles he's given. Some, apostles prophets. Some the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers. And those for the sake of equipping the largest role of all — the saints (that's all of us). Equipping the saints for the work of ministry — that's your job description. My job description — the work of ministry. The work of helping one another attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God. That's the role God's given us to play. So we should ask, “how am I doing in that role? How am I leaning-in for the good of the whole? And how might I lean-in just a little more in effort to build this body, and help us move forward as one?” God gave roles for the Israelites to play within the camp back then. He gives us roles to play within his church today. So, why have we not yet left Sinai? What is it we still lack? First R — roles. God's people had roles they still needed to receive. Second R, relationships. This one will move a bit quicker. 2. RelationshipsFor this one, I'll ask you to turn with me to Numbers Chapter 5. I know we're jumping around quite a bit this morning, but I believe it's worth it because it's going to help us better understand this section as a whole. So, Number 5, verse 5, and I want you to listen for the emphasis: And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to the people of Israel, when a man or woman commits any of the sins that people commit by breaking faith with the Lord, and that person realizes his guilt, he shall confess his sin that he has committed. And he shall make full restitution for his wrong, adding a fifth to it and giving it to him to whom he did the wrong.”God is establishing here rules for relationships. Rules for regulating and righting wrongs within relationships. Neighbor-to-NeighborAnd this first rule here, verse 5, applies to neighbor-to-neighbor relationships. It says, “if you wrong your neighbor, here's what you must do to make it right. You first confess your sin, then give back the full amount, plus a fifth, to that person to whom you did the wrong.” Clearly, God is concerned with the health of neighbor-to-neighbor relationships within the camp. Now, just as we moved in concentric circles in terms of roles — soldiers, Levites, priests. So once more we'll move in concentric circles in terms of relationships. Neighbor-to-neighbor at the widest point in the funnel. Moving further in we come to the relationship between spouses.Spouse-to-SpouseChapter 5:11,“And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 12 “Speak to the people of Israel, If any man's wife goes astray and breaks faith with him,” And now if we had time to read from there through the rest of chapter 5 we'd discover a public process laid out for righting wrongs between spouses. A process that would either result in proving the husband's accusation was unfounded, his wife has been faithful, and her good name should thus be reinstated within the community. Or, in proving her husband's accusation was accurate, his wife has been unfaithful, and she will receive from God the curse of barrenness as her punishment. Either way, a sense of justice, and righting of wrongs, will be recovered in the relationship between spouses.Neighbor-to-neighbor relationships. Spouse-to-spouse relationships. What's at the innermost circle? Our own relationship with God. We see this final movement, chapter 6, with the Law of the Nazirite.Self-to-GodWe can see the set up for it in Numbers chapter 6:1, “And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, When either a man or a woman makes a special vow, the vow of a Nazirite, to separate himself to the Lord.”See, we're looking at the level of the individual — his or her relationship to the Lord. And we're seeing a means laid out here for the individual to especially dedicate him or herself, solely to the Lord, for a set amount of time.Again, if we had time to read the rest of this chapter, chapter 6, we'd see that the Nazirite vow involves not cutting your hair, consuming alcohol, nor going near a dead body throughout the time of the vow. And when the time of the vow was over, you'd conclude by bringing with you a very costly gift to sacrifice at the altar before God — one male lamb, one ewe lamb, one ram, a basket of unleavened bread — you'd even cut the hair you'd grown throughout the time of the vow and put that, as well, upon the altar. And then you'd burn it all up, right then and there, before the Lord, as a way of communicating to him, “Lord, I am fully yours, all I have is yours.”So, relationships — with neighbor, with spouse, and with God. God is concerned to have health in all these spheres, all the way through the camp. Once again, we'll ask, how about us? Are we dwelling in right relationships in all three categories?Is there perhaps a wrong you need to right between you and another person in your community group?Is there a wrong you need to right between you and a spouse, a family member, even a close friend? Is there not necessarily a wrong to be righted, but an opportunity, for a time, to intensely pursue the Lord with a passion, persistence, and commitment perhaps you never have before? God gave relationship rules and regulations for the Israelites to abide by within the camp. He gives relationship rules and regulations for us to abide by within his church. So, why have we not yet left Sinai? What is it we still lack? First R — roles. God's people had roles they still needed to receive. Second R, relationships. God's people had rules for their relationships that still needed to be established. Third, final R — reality. A reality finally to be experienced. 3. RealityNow, for this, we really need to draw our attention all the way back to one of the first things God said at the outset of this season in Sinai. Back before the establishment of the priests and sacrifices, back before the construction of the Tabernacle, just after the making of a covenant with his people. And I'll just read this one to you, from Exodus 25:8, where God said, “And let them make me a sanctuary that I may dwell in their midst.” Let them make me a sanctuary, because… I don't merely aim to make a covenant with them. I don't merely aim to dwell within their general vicinity. I don't merely desire to bring their priests near to carry out sacrifices while all the rest remain scattered elsewhere. Rather, I aim to dwell in their midst.And now with all the pieces finally in place, God is going to do exactly that — turn this aim into reality. Numbers, chapter 2, verse 1. Go there with me, I want you to behold this verse. Numbers 2:1,The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying, “The people of Israel shall camp each by his own standard, with the banners of their fathers' houses. They shall camp facing the tent of meeting on every side.”On every side.Now, here in Numbers, for the very first time, this people are going to form as one around God. God is going to be their central heartbeat filling and sustaining them all with life. God is going to be their sun, keeping them together within his orbit. God is going to dwell in their midst, they are going to camp facing him. With Moses and the priests to his immediate east, where the doors of his Tabernacle open. Moving clockwise from there, will be the Levites making up the central ribbon. Then, to the east once more, will be the tribe of Judah, clockwise from there, the remaining eleven tribes all around.Their new reality, as a people, will from now on involve: Waking up with God in their midst, laying down with God in their midst, working with God in their midst, resting with God in their midst, seeing him as their center, seeing him as their core, seeing the God whose delight it is to live among his chosen people and gladly pour out upon them his abundant joy and love. And, if this is hard for you to imagine, like, you just have a really hard time believing God actually desires to live amongst his people, is actually delighted to live amongst his people, is actually glad to make them glad with his presence…Then look with me at his first act upon assembling his people together as one. What is it, we could ask, that comes most naturally to God, upon the bringing together of his people? Cursing? Frustration? Annoyance? Ambivalence? When he, for the first time, has his people gathered all round, what is, we could say, his knee-jerk, immediate reaction? To bless.The first words out of his mouth are blessing. Go with me to Numbers 6:22, final word here, and it is the capstone of all that's gone on thus far,The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 23 “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the people of Israel: you shall say to them, 24 “The LORD bless you and keep you [hold you, protect you, be your shelter and shield]; 25 the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you [as his face made Moses' to shine, so now may his smile shine upon you and pour forth its bright rays into your heart and life]; 26 the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace [Give you his Shalom, give you his experience of, “All is right, and all is full, and all is well because my God is here and he loves me]. “This is the blessing that, as one writer puts it, now readily flows forth from God, ushering forth from the Central Tent — encompassing the whole, and casting the light of his face on every Israelite within its bounds (Morales, 166).This is the great reality of God's people now realized. And brothers and sisters, it is only a foretaste of a greater reality still to come. For just as God assembled his people in the wilderness, so will he assemble us into his kingdom. Where it will be declared, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God (Rev. 21:3). Where God will bless us, keep us, and make his face to shine upon us in the face of his very own son whom we will then behold (Rev. 22:4).That is, my brothers and sisters, where we are headed. And we are headed there as a people, as a body, as a camp, trekking through the wilderness together, and onward into glory. The TableAnd this is what now brings us to the table. For at this table, we eat together as God's people — bought with his blood, sealed by His Spirit, bound for his Kingdom to behold his face and experience his peace forever.

His Hebrew name is Jacob. He was a close kinsman of Christ, and was therefore called, according to the Jewish usage of the time, his "brother." Some accounts say that he was a child of Joseph by his first marriage; others accounts say that he was the son of Joseph's brother Cleopas and his wife Mary, who was first cousin of the Theotokos. He took the Nazirite vows of one completely consecrated to God according to the Law, and from a young age he was called "the Just" by his people. He is called James the Lesser in Scripture (Mark 15:40) to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, who is called the Greater. The Apostles appointed him first Bishop of Jerusalem. It was he who presided at the earliest Council of the Church in Jerusalem, where he resolved the problem of how gentile converts should be received into the Church (see Acts 15). He wrote the New Testament Epistle, addressed primarily to Jewish converts to the Faith, that bears his name. About the year 62, he ascended to the peak of the Temple in Jerusalem on Passover, and there bore witness to Christ so effectively that the people cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David." At this, the Scribes and Pharisees, fearing that all the people would be converted to Christ, cast him down to the ground. By God's grace, he survived long enough to rise, kneel and pray, like his Master, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do." He was then clubbed to death by one of the scribes.

Have you ever pondered the ancient paths that guide modern life? Embark with us on a spiritual journey through the Books of Leviticus and Numbers (Vayikra and Bamidbar), where commandments like kosher laws and the sanctity of speech intertwine to sculpt the route to holiness and spiritual connection. Our series, which scrutinizes the five books of the Torah over five weeks, reaches pivotal moments as we dissect the quintessential desert experience of the Jewish people within Numbers—a narrative steeped in struggle that mirrors the eternal Jewish condition. This episode sets the stage for Deuteronomy's crucial revisitation of Torah teachings, serving as a beacon for navigating the challenges and triumphs of contemporary existence.From the structured tribal encampments of biblical times to the cherished banners signifying unique identities, this episode draws intriguing parallels to today's quest for order and self-identity, akin to modern team affiliations. We probe the rich symbolism behind each tribe's ensign around the Tabernacle, highlighting the enduring need to instill pride and individuality in our communities and in our youth. The discourse extends to the Israelite census, sparking a compelling conversation around DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) that questions the equilibrium between inherent disparities and the aspiration for egalitarianism.Dive into the profound stories and interpretations that have molded Jewish thought for generations. We dissect the tales of Hannah, the ordeal of the Sotah, and the discipline of the Nazirite, extracting timeless wisdom on divine justice and personal devotion. The episodes of the ark's travels and the people's discontent with manna serve as potent reminders to cherish gratitude and acknowledge the Almighty's clear and visible guardianship. Join us for an inspirational session that will leave you enriched with lessons from the Torah, ready to face life's journey with a refreshed perspective.This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!!Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 27, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 15, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

God gave His people the Nazirite vow as an opportunity for an individual Israelite to set himself apart for a particular task for the LORD for a limited period of time. Open to both men and women, the Nazirite was to remain separate from three particular things. First, Nazirites were not to partake of alcoholic drinks or anything made from grapes. Second, Nazirites were not to go near dead bodies. Third, Nazirites were not to cut their hair during the time of their vow. The completion of the Nazirite vow was a time of great joy. The LORD's joy was not limited to such special occasions, however. The LORD gave joy to all His people every time the priests blessed them and placed His name upon them.  Rev. Lucas Witt, assistant director of the Lutheran Mission Society of Maryland, headquartered in Baltimore, MD, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Nehemiah 13:1-30.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life. 

Part 4 of the series in Numbers. Instructions from God about the Nazirite vow and the priestly blessing followed by an acocunt of the consecration of the altar in the tabernacle.

Welcome to "Hearts of Oak," where today we delve into a profound discussion on spiritual revival and cultural transformation. Our guest, a pivotal figure in the American Christian movement, shares insights on the upcoming "A Million Women" event set for October 12. This gathering isn't just an event; it's a call to action for women across America to unite in prayer and fasting, mirroring the biblical Esther's stand against injustice. We explore the event's significance in addressing critical issues like abortion and the erosion of family values, and how it aims to be a catalyst for national repentance and revival. Our conversation also touches on the power of collective prayer, the impact of recent cultural shifts, and the urgent need for a unified Christian response to contemporary challenges. Join us as we discuss the role of faith in public life and how this movement might just be the spark needed for a sweeping moral restoration in America. Lou Engle is an intercessor for revival, and the visionary co-founder of TheCall, a prayer and fasting movement responsible for gathering hundreds of thousands around the globe. He has been involved in church planting, establishing prayer movements and strategic houses of prayer. Lou is the founder of the pro-life ministry Bound4Life. Now residing in Colorado Springs, he is married to his beautiful wife Therese and blessed with 7 wonderful children. He is the president of Lou Engle Ministries, recently launched to mobilize fasting and contending prayer, and to envision and empower stadium Christianity, and to ignite reformation prayer into the nations of the earth. For the past twenty-two years, Lou has been an international voice calling a generation to Nazirite consecration, fasting and prayer, and the pursuit of God's dreams for their lives through the ministry of TheCall. Lou has raised up prayer movements, has been a voice for the shifting of the supreme court for ending abortion, and has encouraged a movement of adoption to be the answer for the great injustice. Now, Lou is prophetically declaring that we are on the verge of the 3rd great awakening, and Jesus the evangelist will be manifested in great salvation and deliverance power. A mighty Jesus movement is coming to America, Billy Graham's mantle is falling on a new generation of evangelists, and streets and stadiums will be filled with a new song of God's salvation.  A Million Women: Day of Atonement Solemn Assembly  amillionwomen.org October 12, 2024 The National Mall, Washington D.C.  Connect with Lou...

Judges 12 verse 8 to chapter 13 verse 12. After Jephthah died, Ibzan from Bethlehem judged Israel. He had thirty sons and thirty daughters. He sent his daughters to marry men outside his clan, and he brought in thirty young women from outside his clan to marry his sons. Ibzan judged Israel for seven years. When he died, he was buried at Bethlehem. After Ibzan died, Elon from the tribe of Zebulun judged Israel for ten years. When he died, he was buried at Aijalon in Zebulun. After Elon died, Abdon son of Hillel, from Pirathon, judged Israel. He had forty sons and thirty grandsons, who rode on seventy donkeys. He judged Israel for eight years. When he died, he was buried at Pirathon in Ephraim, in the hill country of the Amalekites. Again the Israelites did evil in the Lord's sight, so the Lord handed them over to the Philistines, who oppressed them for forty years. In those days a man named Manoah from the tribe of Dan lived in the town of Zorah. His wife was unable to become pregnant, and they had no children. The angel of the Lord appeared to Manoah's wife and said, “Even though you have been unable to have children, you will soon become pregnant and give birth to a son. So be careful; you must not drink wine or any other alcoholic drink nor eat any forbidden food. You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and his hair must never be cut. For he will be dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. He will begin to rescue Israel from the Philistines.” The woman ran and told her husband, “A man of God appeared to me! He looked like one of God's angels, terrifying to see. I didn't ask where he was from, and he didn't tell me his name. But he told me, ‘You will become pregnant and give birth to a son. You must not drink wine or any other alcoholic drink nor eat any forbidden food. For your son will be dedicated to God as a Nazirite from the moment of his birth until the day of his death.'” Then Manoah prayed to the Lord, saying, “Lord, please let the man of God come back to us again and give us more instructions about this son who is to be born.” God answered Manoah's prayer, and the angel of God appeared once again to his wife as she was sitting in the field. But her husband, Manoah, was not with her. So she quickly ran and told her husband, “The man who appeared to me the other day is here again!” Manoah ran back with his wife and asked, “Are you the man who spoke to my wife the other day?” “Yes,” he replied, “I am.” So Manoah asked him, “When your words come true, what kind of rules should govern the boy's life and work?”

REGISTER FOR https://tinyurl.com/56astzxm TODAY This week, Ken and Grant spoke with Lou Engle. Lou Engle is an intercessor for revival and the visionary co-founder of TheCall, a prayer and fasting movement that has gathered hundreds of thousands around the globe. For the past twenty-two years, Lou Engle has been an international voice calling a generation to Nazirite consecration, fasting and prayer, and pursuing God's dreams for their lives through the ministry of TheCall. For the past sixteen years, Lou Engle has raised prayer movements, has been a voice for the shifting of the Supreme Court for ending abortion, and has encouraged a movement of adoption to be the answer for the great injustice. Now, Lou Engle is prophetically declaring that we are on the verge of the 3rd great awakening, and Jesus the evangelist will be manifested in great salvation and deliverance power. A mighty Jesus movement is coming to America, Billy Graham's mantle is falling on a new generation of evangelists, and streets and stadiums will be filled with a new song of God's salvation. You can check out more about Lou Engle at his website by clicking https://louengle.com/about/.  Register for the event on October 12th in Washington DC https://amillionwomen.org/ For more information on the Travel Grant Match to keep Ken's travel down in 2025, send an email to bryan@orbisministries.org Check out Ken's book, On the Road with the Holy Spirit, here: Partner with Orbis Financially: http://tinyurl.com/yfe3974h Are you interested in learning about Holy Spirit-led ministry? Visit Orbis School of Ministry at https://orbissm.com or email our Registrar, Jo McKay, at jo@orbisminstries.org Upcoming Orbis Ministries overseas ministry trips are posted behind the registration/login portal under the Train-Join an International Ministry Trip link on orbisministries.org. Do you want to join Ken's private "God is not a Theory" discussion group on Facebook? Please send a Facebook Direct Message to Bryan Orbis along with a friend request to be added to it. If you'd like to receive Ken's monthly prayer letter, please go to orbisministries.org and scroll down to the bottom right for "Prayer Letter Signup." "We know through history that revivals don't happen in good times, so if we are going to have a big outpouring, there is probably going to be a big upset to get people seriously thinking about the Lord" - Ken Fish.  "Everything goes back to prayer with me." - Lou Engle.  "The favor on my life is not because of Lou Engle but because of 8 generations of prayers calling out for Revival." - Lou Engle.  "God is still waiting to live in covenant with us." - Ken Fish.  "Covenant will open the door" - Lou Engle  https://www.amazon.com/Digging-Wells-Revival-Preparation-Awakening/dp/B09968479T/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3KHRXEK84W5I6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.w6i24y0KGwGFAfsZ0keEfROHvWy0giEA1E3NJNXI7Svwjb7by5NFAjNhqcLujgIZU_D4qr2qGLc4KlEwvQv0NNCtoB6oD_Bg6K-GRhzBWrI.ZqWZGDMqpS5f-LHeqFWM-8e-QCI-rOsDC8rMNOE6Sbk&dib_tag=se&keywords=digging+the+wells+of+revival+lou+engle&qid=1723672318&sprefix=digging+wells+of+revival%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-1 "Great leaders give articulation to the groans of the masses." Lou Engle  "John the Baptist had the power to summon the nations." - Ken Fish  "Reformation is a call for the church to go public with their stand of righteousness and truth." - Lou Engle  "The church is being put in a place where she has to find the guts again." - Lou Engle "The urgency of Easter was 'There is no tomorrow'" - Lou Engle.  "We have dealt with earth things but have not focused on heavenly conflict." - Lou Engle.  "We have never wanted an event. We want a breakthrough." - Lou Engle. "Fasting makes your life a landing strip for Revelation." - Lou Engle. 

Even in our ______________, God can still accomplish His purposes through us. [Judges 13:5] You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and his hair must never be cut. For he will be dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. He will begin to rescue Israel from the Philistines." Your ____________ do not define what God can do through you. [Judges 14:5-6] As Samson and his parents were going down to Timnah, a young lion suddenly attacked Samson near the vineyards of Timnah. [6] At that moment the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and he ripped the lion's jaws apart with his bare hands. He did it as easily as if it were a young goat. But he didn't tell his father or mother about it. Samson's strength came from _________ ___________, not his own abilities. [Judges 14:14-18] So he said: "Out of the one who eats came something to eat; out of the strong came something sweet." Three days later they were still trying to figure it out. [15] On the fourth day they said to Samson's wife, "Entice your husband to explain the riddle for us, or we will burn down your father's house with you in it. Did you invite us to this party just to make us poor?" [16] So Samson's wife came to him in tears and said, "You don't love me; you hate me! You have given my people a riddle, but you haven't told me the answer." "I haven't even given the answer to my father or mother," he replied. "Why should I tell you?" [17] So she cried whenever she was with him and kept it up for the rest of the celebration. At last, on the seventh day he told her the answer because she was tormenting him with her nagging. Then she explained the riddle to the young men. [18] So before sunset of the seventh day, the men of the town came to Samson with their answer: "What is sweeter than honey? What is stronger than a lion?" Samson replied, "If you hadn't plowed with my heifer, you wouldn't have solved my riddle!" Don't allow _____________ to take ______________ of your life. [Judges 16:15-17] Then Delilah pouted, "How can you tell me, 'I love you,' when you don't share your secrets with me? You've made fun of me three times now, and you still haven't told me what makes you so strong!" [16] She tormented him with her nagging day after day until he was sick to death of it. [17] Finally, Samson shared his secret with her. "My hair has never been cut," he confessed, "for I was dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as anyone else." The enemy always tries to ______________ our weaknesses. [Judges 16:20-21] Then she cried out, "Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!" When he woke up, he thought, "I will do as before and shake myself free." But he didn't realize the LORD had left him. [21] So the Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes. They took him to Gaza, where he was bound with bronze chains and forced to grind grain in the prison. God is still at ______________ even when we _____________ up. [Judges 16:22] But before long, his hair began to grow back. God loves to make ______________ people ______________.

Hebrews 11:32-34 with a focus on Samson. Samson is a complicated Old Testament man of faith. We know that he believed. He understood from his parents that he was to be a Nazirite. We don't know that he obeyed the other restrictiions, but he at least did not cut his hair. He had a level of faith, but he also went into harlots. He also killed people for their clothes. He didn't follow the other ceremonial law as he ate unclean things. We do know that God used him to subdue kingdoms and Hebrews 11 holds him up as an example of faith in action. As we think about Samson, we should praise God that He sent His Holy Spirit, so that believers are now constrained by that Spirit, so we do not follow in the sins of Samson, but we should follow in his righteous works.

Hebrews 11-32-34 with a focus on Samson. Samson is a complicated Old Testament man of faith. We know that he believed. He understood from his parents that he was to be a Nazirite. We don't know that he obeyed the other restrictiions, but he at least did not cut his hair. He had a level of faith, but he also went into harlots. He also killed people for their clothes. He didn't follow the other ceremonial law as he ate unclean things. We do know that God used him to subdue kingdoms and Hebrews 11 holds him up as an example of faith in action. As we think about Samson, we should praise God that He sent His Holy Spirit, so that believers are now constrained by that Spirit, so we do not follow in the sins of Samson, but we should follow in his righteous works.

Hebrews 11-32-34 with a focus on Samson. Samson is a complicated Old Testament man of faith. We know that he believed. He understood from his parents that he was to be a Nazirite. We don't know that he obeyed the other restrictiions, but he at least did not cut his hair. He had a level of faith, but he also went into harlots. He also killed people for their clothes. He didn't follow the other ceremonial law as he ate unclean things. We do know that God used him to subdue kingdoms and Hebrews 11 holds him up as an example of faith in action. As we think about Samson, we should praise God that He sent His Holy Spirit, so that believers are now constrained by that Spirit, so we do not follow in the sins of Samson, but we should follow in his righteous works.

Daily Dose of Hope July 9, 2024 Day 3 of Week 15   Judges 12-16; Psalm 126; Luke 24   Hello, everyone.  Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope.  Let's get right into our Scripture for today.    Judges 12 details some more judges that led Israel.  Some appeared to have integrity and others didn't.  I always assumed that the judges were called by God, but it seems that not all of them were.  But at least when there was a judge (called by God or not), the Israelites seem to have their act together and not be quite so entrenched in idolatry.  People need leaders.   That takes us into Judges 13 and the story of Samson.  Not surprisingly, the last judge has died and the cycle of sin is beginning once again.  God has allowed the Philistines to conquer the Israelites.  In this chapter, we find the story of Samson's birth.  An angel of the Lord appears to his parents, who are childless, and tell him that the woman will bear a child and he will be a Nazirite.  Nazirites were a set apart group of people who were dedicated to God.  They didn't consume any fermented drink, they didn't cut their hair, and they did not defile themselves by getting near corpses.  Obviously, God had special plans for this little boy.  He was to belong to God.  But as Samson grows, it becomes obvious that he isn't too interested in the things of God.  He chooses a Philistine wife, despite his parents' disapproval.  Samson wants what he wants and he doesn't care if others don't like it.   I have to admit, the story of Samson's first marriage in Judges 14 is a bit strange.  If you were raising your eyebrows as you read it, you weren't the only one.  There is the interesting scene with the lion and then the honey.  We can see that Samson is strong.  There is no doubt that God has blessed him.  But then we have the week long wedding celebration.  We can guess that copious amounts of alcohol are being passed around.  Samson offers a riddle to his companions; it's really a trick to which only he knows the answer.  This enrages his companions who then threaten to kill his wife and her family if he doesn't tell them the answer.  These are really nice people he is hanging with, aren't they?  His bride manipulates him into telling the answer to the riddle and she shares it with the Philistine wedding guests.  My guess is she is scared to death.  This makes Samson furious and he leaves.  When he returns later, her father has given her to someone else in marriage.  The whole situation is a total dysfunctional mess.    And yet, God's Spirit comes over Samson at various times.  God is using him to allow the Israelites to conquer the Philistines.  It is yet another reminder of how God uses people whom we least expect.  It isn't about their worthiness.  When there is a need, God will use who he will use.  Samson had a purpose – to begin to break Israel free from the Philistines.  He was selfish and violent.  And yet, God used him.  I guess it leaves lots of room for us to ponder.    Judges 16 details the story of Samson and Delilah.  Samson met his match in Delilah who seduced Samson into telling her the secret to his strength.  In the end, Samson did end up relying on God and getting some revenge against his Philistine enemies.    Please read the psalm for today.  I'm not going into detail about it because I really want to have plenty of time for Luke 24.  In this chapter, we have the resurrection story (when the angels appeared to the women at the empty tomb) and the men on the road to Emmaus.  I want to spend some time on that Emmaus journey.    Two of Jesus' disciples, not the twelve but two other male disciples, one named Cleophus and the other left unnamed, were walking from Jerusalem to their home in Emmaus.  There are some walks that are longer than others — not because of the miles or even because of the landscape, but because of the burdens. This was a seven mile walk but it might as well been a twenty-seven mile walk because these men are distressed.  They are grieving.  They have been following Jesus.  They believed him to be the Messiah and Savior and they have just seen him killed, murdered on a Roman cross.  It was gory and awful.  So, they are walking slowly and speaking intensely.  The Greek suggests they may have been having some kind of theological argument.  But the bottom line is they are tired, weary, sad, and confused.  They don't understand what they have just witnessed.  And now they have to go back home and continue with their lives.  You can kind of imagine the kinds of questions they had.  Why did this happen?  How did God allow this to happen? Jesus interrupts them on the path.  At this point, they still don't know this is Jesus.  He is a stranger to them.  I love this.  Because Jesus shows up to them jsut as he shows up to us.  We don't always recognize his presence either.  I don't know about you, but I've had times in my life that were so difficult, so painful, so anxiety-provoking, that I am so consumed with those feelings and then I look back and realize later, that Jesus was there with me.  His presence was real.  It was protecting me, guarding me, guiding me.  Jesus has a way of showing up when we need him most.  We just don't always recognize it.  Jesus begins to explain to the men the story of Scripture, starting at the very beginning, and walks them through the prophecies, and how God said he would send a Savior who would have to suffer and die.  Hope and faith must have begun to stir their hearts as he spoke. They must have never heard, really heard, the gospel like this before—a gospel that included the suffering of the Messiah before entering his glory—told by the resurrected Lord himself!  Now, keep in mind, their circumstances have not changed but their perspective is beginning to change.  Faith is budding. The men convince Jesus (remember, they still don't know it's him) to stay the night with them, as it's getting late and they are done with their journey.  It was that night, at the table, when they were breaking bread together that they recognize him.  Just as he did on Thursday night in the Upper Room, he takes the bread, gives thanks, breaks it, and offers it to them.  Their eyes are opened and they know – this is our Jesus.  But, the story is far from done.  It's also in that moment that Jesus disappears and they say, “Wow.  I can't believe we didn't see him.  Were our hearts not burning within us and he shared with us about the Scriptures?”  Sometimes, it takes perspective, does it not, to see how Jesus has been at work in our lives?  The men return to Jerusalem.  I'm guessing they aren't walking but running this time, as they need to tell the others what they have experienced.  It's when they are all together that Jesus appears again.  He enters a locked room and says, “Peace be with you.”  I love this because it's all so true.  Jesus doesn't swoop down and fix all our problems.  But he does offer peace in the midst of them.  How have you experienced the peace that passes all understanding, that only makes sense connected to the presence of Jesus in your life? More tomorrow. Blessings Pastor Vicki      

Discover the transformative power of embracing God's call in our latest sermon, "Why You're NOT What You've Done: Embrace God's Call." Just as God called Samson a Nazirite despite his many flaws, He sees beyond your past mistakes and still calls you His child. Dive deep into this powerful message and learn how to activate God's presence in your life, move past your past, and walk in the victory He has already given you. This is not just another sermon; it's a call to live in your true identity and to be celebrated, not just tolerated. Don't miss this life-changing word—watch now and embrace your God-given destiny!

Welcome to Day 2401 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – Is There Really a Sin Offering? – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2401 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2401 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Today is the tenth lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church. The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God's redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it's also a book that seems strange to us. While God's Word was written for us, it wasn't written to us. Today, our lesson is, Is There Really a Sin Offering? Hebrews 10:4 asserts, For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins, but Leviticus seems to tell a different story. Even casually reading the book, we notice that Israelites who bring proper sacrifices “shall be forgiven” (e.g., Lev 4:20, 26, 31, 35: 5:10, 13, 16, 18). Have we reached an impasse? Rather than labeling this a contradiction, we might examine our own perceptions of Old Testament sacrifices—specifically, the sin offering. “Sin-offering” is a translation of the Hebrew term chatta' t, which has the basic meaning of “to miss the mark” or “to fall short.” In using a traditional, familiar rendering, many English Bible translations cause us to misunderstand this sacrifice. The Goal of the Sin Offering The label “sin offering” assumes that the goal of this sacrifice was forgiveness for moral failures or violations—sins as we think of them. Leviticus reveals this is not the case. The sin offering was used in cases where people suffered from a bodily discharge (Lev 15), at the dedication of a new altar (Lev 8), or when a Nazirite completes a vow of abstinence (Lev 12). The fundamental goal of the sin offering was ritual purification. It was designed to guard sacred space—territory sanctified by God's presence—from infection by impurity. By definition, every person or object “falls short” of divine perfection and must be ritually marked (set apart) as acceptable for holy ground. The sin offering—better rendered as a “purification offering”—was therefore applied to people and inanimate objects to mark them as acceptable before God. These people (and objects) were not unacceptable because they had done evil, but because they were imperfect—they “fell short” of the holy perfection that God's presence required. The ritual reinforced the idea of the complete otherness of God. Depending on the individual's status in the community—whether priest or commoner—the blood of the offering was either used outside or inside the sanctuary. The blood was brought inside the sanctuary when the sin

The beginnings of Samson the Nazirite and his vows. Craig and Troy talk about the meaning of the Naziritic vow, but are even more interested in the identity of the angel of the Lord. Support 1517 Podcast Network Fundraiser! 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Available Now: Encouragement for Motherhood Edited by Katie Koplin Pre-order: Hitchhiking with Prophets: A Ride Through the Salvation Story of the Old Testament by Chad Bird 30 Minutes in the NT on Youtube Remembering Rod Rosenbladt Available Now: Be Thou My Song by Kerri Tom More from the hosts: Troy Neujahr  Craig Donofrio  

A Sermon by Pastor Richard Sfameni, Pastor of Victory Church in Providence, RI.   Start with the Man in the Mirror Don't confuse charisma with character Don't confuse the anointing with God's approval Don't confuse the gifts of The Spirit with the fruit of The Spirit Don't forget to look at the man/woman in the mirror  Judges 16:16-21 16 And it came to pass, when she pestered him daily with her words and pressed him, so that his soul was vexed to death, 17 that he told her all his heart, and said to her, “No razor has ever come upon my head, for I have been a Nazirite to God from my mother's womb. If I am shaven, then my strength will leave me, and I shall become weak, and be like any other man.” 18 When Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, “Come up once more, for he has told me all his heart.” So the lords of the Philistines came up to her and brought the money in their hand. 19 Then she lulled him to sleep on her knees, and called for a man and had him shave off the seven locks of his head. Then she began to torment him, and his strength left him. 20 And she said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” So he awoke from his sleep, and said, “I will go out as before, at other times, and shake myself free!” But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him. 21 Then the Philistines took him and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza. They bound him with bronze fetters, and he became a grinder in the prison.     

In week 3 of our series called Origin Story, Pastor Mel examines the life of Hannah - who was the mother of the prophet Samuel. In week 2 we learned how Samuel lived a life of faithfulness, and this week we see that his mother was faithful as well. Hannah struggled with infertility and chose to take her suffering to the Lord. God granted her a son, who she then surrendered back to God by taking a Nazirite vow on Samuel's behalf. Hannah left Samuel with Eli the priest when Samuel was just four years old. On first pass Hannah's decision to give Samuel to the priesthood might seem cold or harsh, but in the final analysis it's one of scripture's most renowned acts of faithfulness. Godly parents teach their children how to worship, how to pray, how to trust God, and how to leave the home. Hannah is sometimes criticized for giving Samuel to the priesthood, but modern parents still give their own children to things like athletics, career paths, talents, and more. What are you giving your children to?

In week 3 of our series called Origin Story, Pastor Mel examines the life of Hannah - who was the mother of the prophet Samuel. In week 2 we learned how Samuel lived a life of faithfulness, and this week we see that his mother was faithful as well. Hannah struggled with infertility and chose to take her suffering to the Lord. God granted her a son, who she then surrendered back to God by taking a Nazirite vow on Samuel's behalf. Hannah left Samuel with Eli the priest when Samuel was just four years old. On first pass Hannah's decision to give Samuel to the priesthood might seem cold or harsh, but in the final analysis it's one of scripture's most renowned acts of faithfulness. Godly parents teach their children how to worship, how to pray, how to trust God, and how to leave the home. Hannah is sometimes criticized for giving Samuel to the priesthood, but modern parents still give their own children to things like athletics, career paths, talents, and more. What are you giving your children to?

The Nazirite vow is a bewildering tradition in Torah, seemingly appropriated by the era of the Judges in many odd ways. The foretold birth of Samson in Judges 13:2-25 gives us some clues as to how traditions had changed in the era without a prophet or king to guide Israelites in Torah-living.

Daily Dose of Hope May 30, 2024 Day 5 of Week 9   Scripture:  Numbers 6-7; Hebrews 13   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements New Hope Church's Bible reading plan.  Let's get right into our Scripture for today.   Numbers 6 speaks of the Nazirites.  A man or woman could make a vow to become a Nazirite.  The purpose of this was to draw closer to God and separate oneself from the pleasures and comforts of the world.  For that reason, they had very specific things they could not do, including cut their hair or drink alcoholic beverages.  One wasn't a Nazirite forever but rather for a specified period of time. There were some pretty famous Nazirites in the Bible, including Samson and John the Baptist.  Don't confuse being a Nazirite with the word Nazarene, which is someone from the town of Nazareth in Israel.    Numbers 7 details the offerings brought by the leaders of each tribe to dedicate the tabernacle.  It was quite a lot of stuff!  I find it interesting how detailed the Scripture is about what was brought.  You may have noticed that each leader brought the same offerings, with one leader per day bringing their offerings before God.  It should be noted that since everyone brought exactly the same thing, no one tribe could claim to be more generous or worthy.  It was all for God's glory, not their own.    Moving on to Hebrews 13.  This is an interesting chapter.  It's filled with words of encouragement (and maybe even warning) about what it means to follow Jesus faithfully.  There are instructions on hospitality, fidelity in marriage, and even avoiding the love of money.  There is also instruction to be content.    Why should we seek to be content?  The author then answers that question with some text from the Old Testament (words from Deuteronomy and Joshua) to provide evidence that God is always with us.  We can be content, we can make it through tough times, because we have the presence and power of God with us at all times.  This is what's real: God has always walked with his people through hardships and challenges. Why would now be any different?    Think about the many, many instances in Scripture in which God walked alongside his people, providing for them and sustaining them.  There was the time in the wilderness, there was the exile, there was the ministry of Jesus and the disciples, and there was the work of the early church, among many others.  Think about the many times in your own life in which God walked alongside you.  How has God sustained you in times of struggle, in loneliness, in grief, in tough financial situations, in illness, etc.?  We serve a God who will never leave us or forsake us.  And because of that, we don't have to fear.  We can make a decision to trust him. Remember, trust is not a feeling but a decision we make.    What's your contentment level today?  Have you made a decision to trust Jesus?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

'By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life… In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises… The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. 2 Peter 1:3,5,8,10 NLT   THE FIRST RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY ADD TO OUR LIVES IS FAITH   FAITH IS SIMPLY STAYING SUBMITTED AND COMMITTED TO THE WILL OF GOD.   THE SECOND RUNG THAT WE DILIGENTLY PURSUE IS MORAL EXCELLENCE Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence… 2 Peter 1:5 NLT   ' “If you love me, obey my commandments. John 14:15 NLT   Samson led Israel for twenty years in the days of the Philistines. Judges 15:20 NIV   'The woman ran and told her husband, “A man of God appeared to me! He looked like osonne of God's angels, terrifying to see. I didn't ask where he was from, and he didn't tell me his name. But he told me, ‘You will become pregnant and give birth to a son. You must not drink wine or any other alcoholic drink nor eat any forbidden food. For your  will be dedicated to God as a Nazirite from the moment of his birth until the day of his death.'” Judges 13:6-7 NLT   One day Samson went to Gaza, where he saw a prostitute. He went in to spend the night with her. The people of Gaza were told, “Samson is here!” So they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the city gate. They made no move during the night, saying, “At dawn we'll kill him.”Judges 16:1-2 NIV   RARELY DO WE GET TO THE WRONG PLACE IN LIFE BY ONE BAD CHOICE. WE GET THERE ONE STEP AT A TIME, ONE DAY AT A TIME, AND ONE BAD DECISION AT A TIME.   WE DON'T BELIEVE OUR BAD DECISIONS OR DISOBEDIENCE WILL COST US.   But Samson lay there only until the middle of the night. Then he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate, together with the two posts, and tore them loose, bar and all. He lifted them to his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron. Judges 16:3 NIV   Some time later, he fell in love with a woman in the Valley of Sorek whose name was Delilah. Judges 16:4 NIV   IThe rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, “See if you can lure him into showing you the secret of his great strength and how we can overpower him so we may tie him up and subdue him. Each one of us will give you eleven hundred shekels of silver.” So Delilah said to Samson, “Tell me the secret of your great strength and how you can be tied up and subdued.” Judges 16:5-6 NIV   After putting him to sleep on her lap, she called for someone to shave off the seven braids of his hair, and so began to subdue him. And his strength left him. Then she called, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” He awoke from his sleep and thought, “I'll go out as before and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes and took him down to Gaza. Binding him with bronze shackles, they set him to grinding grain in the prison. Judges 16:19-21 NIV   HOW DO YOU PURSUE MORAL EXCELLENCE?   So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn't know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:13-16 NLT   1. GIRD YOUR MINDS So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 1 Peter 1:13 NLT   But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. 1 Timothy 6:11 NLT   WE HAVE TO GET TO THE POINT WHERE YOU LOVE FREEDOM OVER THE CONVENIENCE OF YOUR TEMPTATION   So get rid of every filthy habit and all wicked conduct. Submit to God and accept the word that he plants in your hearts, which is able to save you. James 1:21 GNB   2. GUARD YOUR HEARTS So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. 1 Peter 1:14 NLT Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. Ephesians 5:11 NIV 3. GUIDE YOUR LIFESTYLE But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:16 NLT   'And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1 NLT   MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO COMPROMISE   4 MAJOR TRIGGERS:   PLACE       TIME   MOOD       Tremble and in your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. Psalms 4:4-5 NIV   PEOPLE   Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Proverbs 13:20 NLT   Do not be fooled. “Bad companions ruin good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV       SURROUND YOURSELF WITH PEOPLE GOING THE DIRECTION YOU WANT TO GO   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. Hebrews 10:24-25 NLT

Of all the problematic heroes in the Hebrew Bible, Samson takes first prize. Samson is hailed as a hero of the Israelites — a "Nazirite" consecrated to God with superhuman strength — but he's also a mass murderer, womanizer and all-around menace to society. Helen and Dave welcome Mahri Leonard-Fleckman to the podcast to try to make sense of the wild (and wildly entertaining) Samson cycle. SUPPORT BIBLICAL TIME MACHINE!If you enjoy the podcast, please show your support through the Time Travelers Club, our Patreon. We love making the show, but since we don't run ads we rely on listener contributions to cover our costs. Please help us continue to showcase high-quality biblical scholarship with a $5/month subscription. (Think of it as $1.25 an episode!) GET YOUR BIBLICAL TIME MACHINE MUGThe Biblical Time Machine Store  is open! Check out our 4-part audio study guide called "The Gospel of Mark as an Ancient Biography." Or get yourself a handsome Biblical Time Machine mug or a cool sticker for your water bottle. Support the Show.Join the Time Travelers Club!Join our Patreon to support the podcast and get special perks like bonus content and direct messaging with the hosts. Learn more and subscribe at the Time Travelers Club. Theme music written and performed by Dave Roos

Paul & Mike wrap up their discussion of the Judges with the legendary superhero, Samson. Warriors identify with Samson because even with his many flaws, he had purpose and undaunted courage. Samson is the only named Nazirite in the Bible. As a Nazirite, Samson was set apart for a sacred task, which was to begin the defeat of the Philistines. However, Samson broke his vow, showing that he, like so many other warriors in the Bible, was still very much human, but still possessing God's favor even with his many shortcomings.

Today, we'll conclude the account of Samson, one of Israel's judges. As you may recall from the last episode, Samson was supposed to be dedicated to the Lord as a Nazirite from birth, and yet he did very little to keep that vow. We pick up his story with the account of his interactions with a Philistine woman named Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil. As a representative of Israel, it's no surprise that in the end, he falls to the strength of another nation because he gives into his passions. In the end, however, the angel's prediction is true: he will begin to save Israel from the power of the Philistines.Judges 16 - 1:01 . Judges 17 - 9:24 . Judges 18 - 11:46 . Psalm 82 - 18:24 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, we'll begin to look at the life of Samson, a man who kept the Nazirite vow from his birth, until he didn't, and violated it several times over. In short, Samson is a picture of Israel in one person. Meant to be set apart and holy, he instead takes his vows and his God lightly, defiling himself over and over. A Nazirite was supposed avoid dead bodies, yet he eats honey from a lion's carcass and uses a jawbone for a weapon. A Nazirite was supposed to abstain from wine, yet Samson threw a drinking party for the Philistines. And, in our next episode, the last vow to go is that of not cutting his hair, which he hands over to a Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil.Judges 13 - 1:00 . Judges 14 - 5:43 . Judges 15 - 11:06 . Psalm 81 - 15:47 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In short, Samson is a picture of Israel in one person. Meant to be set apart and holy, he instead takes his vows and his God lightly, defiling himself over and over. A Nazirite was supposed avoid dead bodies, yet he eats honey from a lion's carcass and uses a jawbone for a weapon. A Nazirite was supposed to abstain from wine, yet Samson threw a drinking party for the Philistines. The last vow to go is that of not cutting his hair, which he hands over to a Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil. Judges 13 – 1:14 . Judges 14 – 6:20 . Judges 15 – 10:52 . Judges 16 - 15:52 . Psalm 75 - 23:30 . Psalm 76 – 24:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Was Jesus a Nazirite? Did Jesus take the Nazirite vow? What is the difference between a Nazarene and a Nazirite?

Pastor Robert Baltodano and Pastor Lloyd Pulley Question Timestamps: Brett, UT (2:59) - What is the right way of spending time with God? Is it wrong to read at different times of day and not first thing in the morning? Jenny, NY (6:08) - Is it right for a pastor to only allow certain people to come up for prayer? How do you know when you need to move on to a different church? Joseph, MD (11:22) - Based on John 16:11, could an unbeliever have been judged if the ruler of the world hadn't been judged? Lisa, SC (16:56) - Was Jesus ever considered a Nazirite? Did he take a Nazirite vow? Pat, VA (21:36) - I recently discovered that my friend of ten years is an atheist, is it right for me to cut ties with this person? Gail, NJ (27:37) - Why do some say “I'm not a Christian, I'm Catholic?” Samell, GA (33:39) - Is infant baptism okay? What does the Bible say about infant baptism? Is baptism done by full immersion in the water or just a sprinkling? Tate, TX (37:45) - I struggle with lust, can you pray for me and provide some Biblical advice or verses? Matthew, Facebook (45:52) - Is Zechariah 12 about the end times or the crucifixion? Yvonne, Facebook (49:46) - What does the Bible say about life after death experiences? Rayann, Facebook (52:46) - Was Samson a Nazirite? Stacey, Facebook (53:36) - Can you explain the difference between the rapture and the second coming? Questions? 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org

Today's Scripture passages are Numbers 5 - Numbers 6 | Galatians 1.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, enjoy 25% off your order at ivpress.com by using the code IVPOD25 at checkout.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate IrwinPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Paloma LeeExecutive producer: Helen Lee

Have you ever pondered the ancient paths that guide modern life? Embark with us on a spiritual journey through the Books of Leviticus and Numbers (Vayikra and Bamidbar), where commandments like kosher laws and the sanctity of speech intertwine to sculpt the route to holiness and spiritual connection. Our series, which scrutinizes the five books of the Torah over five weeks, reaches pivotal moments as we dissect the quintessential desert experience of the Jewish people within Numbers—a narrative steeped in struggle that mirrors the eternal Jewish condition. This episode sets the stage for Deuteronomy's crucial revisitation of Torah teachings, serving as a beacon for navigating the challenges and triumphs of contemporary existence.From the structured tribal encampments of biblical times to the cherished banners signifying unique identities, this episode draws intriguing parallels to today's quest for order and self-identity, akin to modern team affiliations. We probe the rich symbolism behind each tribe's ensign around the Tabernacle, highlighting the enduring need to instill pride and individuality in our communities and in our youth. The discourse extends to the Israelite census, sparking a compelling conversation around DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) that questions the equilibrium between inherent disparities and the aspiration for egalitarianism.Dive into the profound stories and interpretations that have molded Jewish thought for generations. We dissect the tales of Hannah, the ordeal of the Sotah, and the discipline of the Nazirite, extracting timeless wisdom on divine justice and personal devotion. The episodes of the ark's travels and the people's discontent with manna serve as potent reminders to cherish gratitude and acknowledge the Almighty's clear and visible guardianship. Join us for an inspirational session that will leave you enriched with lessons from the Torah, ready to face life's journey with a refreshed perspective.This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!!Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 27, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 1, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Have you ever pondered the ancient paths that guide modern life? Embark with us on a spiritual journey through the Books of Leviticus and Numbers (Vayikra and Bamidbar), where commandments like kosher laws and the sanctity of speech intertwine to sculpt the route to holiness and spiritual connection. Our series, which scrutinizes the five books of the Torah over five weeks, reaches pivotal moments as we dissect the quintessential desert experience of the Jewish people within Numbers—a narrative steeped in struggle that mirrors the eternal Jewish condition. This episode sets the stage for Deuteronomy's crucial revisitation of Torah teachings, serving as a beacon for navigating the challenges and triumphs of contemporary existence.From the structured tribal encampments of biblical times to the cherished banners signifying unique identities, this episode draws intriguing parallels to today's quest for order and self-identity, akin to modern team affiliations. We probe the rich symbolism behind each tribe's ensign around the Tabernacle, highlighting the enduring need to instill pride and individuality in our communities and in our youth. The discourse extends to the Israelite census, sparking a compelling conversation around DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) that questions the equilibrium between inherent disparities and the aspiration for egalitarianism.Dive into the profound stories and interpretations that have molded Jewish thought for generations. We dissect the tales of Hannah, the ordeal of the Sotah, and the discipline of the Nazirite, extracting timeless wisdom on divine justice and personal devotion. The episodes of the ark's travels and the people's discontent with manna serve as potent reminders to cherish gratitude and acknowledge the Almighty's clear and visible guardianship. Join us for an inspirational session that will leave you enriched with lessons from the Torah, ready to face life's journey with a refreshed perspective.This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!!Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 27, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 1, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Bible Study: (2:10) Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a Father discusses the Philistines & what a Nazirite vow is  Lk 1:5-25 Father discusses the date of Jesus' birth Letters (23:19) - Deuterocanonical books (30:17) - Incense & Zechariah Word of the Day: Elijah (32:37) Callers:  (35:38) - I'm in the process of RCIA, but still attending protestant Church and mass simultaneously. The pastor talked about how Melchizedek was Jesus.   Could you explain? (39:06) - Question about a non-binary God?  I'm arguing about this with some siblings (42:21) - Best way to learn about mortal sin? (43:32) - I love Fr. Simon educates his listeners through a historical way! (45:23) - Question about Tithing, where in the Bible is it? (47:15) - Friend getting his Masters in Catholic Biblical Studies and he needs to choose between Biblical Greek or Hebrew.  What should he do?

In this Bible Story, Jacob is affirmed by the Lord that he would be blessed as his father Isaac was. Upon arrival, Jacob met Rachel, and immediately fell in love. Jacob is tricked into marrying Laban's older daughter, Leah, before marrying Rachel. This story is inspired by Genesis 28:1-29:29. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Genesis 29:10 from the King James Version.Episode 20: In fear for his life, Jacob flees from his brother by going to the home country of his mother. On the way there, he has a vision from God in which He reaffirms the promise He made to his grandfather Abraham. When Jacob finally arrives in Paddan-Aram, he meets Rachel and immediately falls in love with her.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.