Podcasts about Shechem

Join us for part 2 of the conversation with Dr. Jack Beck. Learn how themes like divine identity and historical events are intertwined with specific locations like Mount Herman and Shechem. Discover how geography can illuminate scripture, bringing fresh perspectives and profound understanding. This episode also explores how Jack's work with Our Daily Bread Ministries makes biblical geography accessible to millions worldwide.Discover more about Dr. Beck, his books, videos, or to sign up for his newsletter, click HEREWatch the wealth of options on Dr. Beck's YouTube channel HEREDiscover Dr. Beck's books HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!

What if the stories at the end of Genesis weren't just family drama—but political storytelling? In this episode, Nate and Shelby revisit six key moments from Genesis 27 to 50—including Jacob stealing Esau's blessing, Dinah and Shechem, Judah and Tamar, and Joseph's rise in Egypt—to explore how these stories may have been written to explain Israel's political identity, tribal dynamics, and national origin. We talk about: Why Jacob and Esau's rivalry reflects Israel vs. Edom What Jacob's wrestling match really says about the name "Israel" How the story of Dinah might not be about justice at all The subversive role of Tamar and why she's called righteous Why Joseph marrying an Egyptian priest's daughter created tension later And how Genesis closes by blessing tribes that already existed These aren't just ancient stories—they're layered political texts that reveal how Israel saw itself and its neighbors. Join us as we read Genesis a little more historically, and a little more honestly. Thoughts, questions, stories? Please email  contact@almostheretical.com Become a member and get: 1. Bonus episodes and aftershows 2. All full-length, ad-free episodes 3. Access to Heretical Together (our private community of 350+ listeners) Become a member: almostheretical.com/premium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joshua 8 tells of the strategy in the taking of Ai and the events that led up to this conquest. After the shameful defeat of chapter 7 Joshua is encouraged to return and take the city by surprise by using an ambush and pincer movement to encircle and trap the Amorite army. Thirty thousand men remained silent and hidden in thickets near Ai while Joshua and the bulk of the army made a front line attack against the city. The army pretended to be in panic and lured the Amorites from the city which was then smitten while the Amorites were pursuing Israel. The occupiers of the city than came out against the Amorite army and Joshua stretched out his spear, when the LORD said that the moment was right, and the fleeing Israelites turned to encircle the enemy and destroy them. The entire populace of Ai was destroyed and their livestock taken by Israel as spoil. The city was burned by fire and then buried under a heap of stones.Verses 30-35 describes Joshua taking Israel to Shechem, building the altar of Yahweh on Mount Ebal, offering sacrifices, writing on plastered stones the blessings and curses from the book of Deuteronomy and pronouncing these blessings and curses on each of the six tribes on Ebal – for curses – and blessings on the six tribes on Mount Gerazim. Both natural Israelites and the strangers in their midst assented to the words of the covenant.

Send us a textActs 7:8-19And the patriarchs, jealous of Joseph, sold him into Egypt; but God was with him and rescued him out of all his afflictions and gave him favor and wisdom before Pharaoh, king of Egypt, who made him ruler over Egypt and over all his household. Now there came a famine throughout all Egypt and Canaan, and great affliction, and our fathers could find no food. But when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent out our fathers on their first visit. And on the second visit Joseph made himself known to his brothers, and Joseph's family became known to Pharaoh. And Joseph sent and summoned Jacob his father and all his kindred, seventy-five persons in all. And Jacob went down into Egypt, and he died, he and our fathers, and they were carried back to Shechem and laid in the tomb that Abraham had bought for a sum of silver from the sons of Hamor in Shechem.“But as the time of the promise drew near, which God had granted to Abraham, the people increased and multiplied in Egypt until there arose over Egypt another king who did not know Joseph. He dealt shrewdly with our race and forced our fathers to expose their infants, so that they would not be kept alive.Support the show

Synopsis: After the death of Gideon, the children of Israel did not remember the LORD and plunged back into idolatry. This departure from God led to Abimelech's murderous scheme to kill his brothers and rule over Shechem. Jotham, Gideon's youngest son, escaped and pronounced a curse God would bring to pass in due time. Remembering Jesus is what God's people are called to do. Verses in order of appearance: Lamentations 3:19-20 (NIV) Lamentations 3:21-23 (NIV) Judges 8:29-32 Exodus 21:10-11 Judges 8:33-35 2 Chronicles 24:17-18 Judges 9:1-3 Joshua 24:26-27 Judges 9:4-6 Judges 9:7-13 PIC of Mt. Gerizim from HolyLandPhotos.org Proverbs 28:9 Judges 9:14-15 Proverbs 6:27 Judges 9:16-21 Proverbs 26:2 Galatians 3:13-14 Romans 12:14-19 Psalm 103:1-5 Verses mentioned but not displayed: Judges 8:23 Leviticus 18:18 Deuteronomy 17:17 Deuteronomy 21:15-17 Genesis 34 Joshua 8 Deuteronomy 11:29 Deuteronomy 27:12-26

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Deuteronomy 27 commands Israel that when they enter the land the nation should be assembled together at Shechem – which means the burden bearer. This town has an incredible history from the time Joshua gathered the nation to this location as soon as the major conquests of the land had been completed until the advent of our Lord Jesus' visit as John 4 records. The village lies in a valley between two mountains – Ebal and Gerazim. Six tribes were to stand upon each of these mountains to hear the reciting of Deuteronomy chapters 27 and 28. The curses for disobedience are found in chapter 27 and the blessings for obedience in chapter 28. Before this happens large stones were whitewashed and the words of the curses and the blessings were written on them. These were to be a record to remind the Israelites of the LORD's favour and goodness in bringing the people into the Promised Land. Additionally an altar of unhewn stones was to be built on Mount Ebal – the mountain of cursing. We, perhaps, puzzle that it should be the mountain of cursing where God's altar was to be. Why? Perhaps since the curses become more prominent in the nation's subsequent history as Joshua would point out towards the end of his life – Joshua 24 verses 18-22. Sacrifices were offered on Yahweh's altar. It is interesting to note that the confusing worship of the Samaritans had its focus on Mount Gerazim (John 4 verses 20). The tribes of Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph and Benjamin were to stand on Mount Gerazim. On Mount Ebal stood the tribes of Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulon, Dan and Naphtali. The Levites were to recite in a loud voice all the curses and the blessings. After each curse the people of Israel were to audibly respond with the word “Amen”. Think about that as we find that word in chapter in each of the verses from 15-32. In past ages it was normal practice for each member of the congregation in our ecclesias to audibly say “Amen” as a sign of accord with what had been said. It meant that we were participating in the prayer and agreeing that the prayer was not just for the praying brother, but that it was our prayer. And so we said “Amen” meaning ‘so be it'..

Deuteronomy 27 commands Israel that when they enter the land the nation should be assembled together at Shechem – which means the burden bearer. This town has an incredible history from the time Joshua gathered the nation to this location as soon as the major conquests of the land had been completed until the advent of our Lord Jesus' visit as John 4 records. The village lies in a valley between two mountains – Ebal and Gerazim. Six tribes were to stand upon each of these mountains to hear the reciting of Deuteronomy chapters 27 and 28. The curses for disobedience are found in chapter 27 and the blessings for obedience in chapter 28. Before this happens large stones were whitewashed and the words of the curses and the blessings were written on them. These were to be a record to remind the Israelites of the LORD's favour and goodness in bringing the people into the Promised Land. Additionally an altar of unhewn stones was to be built on Mount Ebal – the mountain of cursing. We, perhaps, puzzle that it should be the mountain of cursing where God's altar was to be. Why? Perhaps since the curses become more prominent in the nation's subsequent history as Joshua would point out towards the end of his life – Joshua 24 verses 18-22. Sacrifices were offered on Yahweh's altar. It is interesting to note that the confusing worship of the Samaritans had its focus on Mount Gerazim (John 4 verses 20). The tribes of Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph and Benjamin were to stand on Mount Gerazim. On Mount Ebal stood the tribes of Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulon, Dan and Naphtali. The Levites were to recite in a loud voice all the curses and the blessings. After each curse the people of Israel were to audibly respond with the word “Amen”. Think about that as we find that word in chapter in each of the verses from 15-32. In past ages it was normal practice for each member of the congregation in our ecclesias to audibly say “Amen” as a sign of accord with what had been said. It meant that we were participating in the prayer and agreeing that the prayer was not just for the praying brother, but that it was our prayer. And so we said “Amen” meaning ‘so be it'.. Song of Solomon chapter 7 is in two parts. In verses 1-9a the groom continues from the last verse of chapter 6 in his praise of his bride. This song starts in the concluding words of the sixth chapter. The groom speaks of his soulmate in metaphors describing her feet, her thighs, her navel, her belly, her breasts, her neck, her eyes, her nose, her head, the locks of her hair, her poise and her pleasantries. He knows her every part. Just as our Lord Jesus Christ intimately knows everything about us. And we must come to know him just as we are known – John 17 verses 3-8; 1 Corinthians 13 verses 9-13. In verses 9b-13 the bride responds by declaring that she finds her groom to be desirable in every respect. In verses 11-13 she wholeheartedly gives herself to him in enraptured love. Acts 23 tells of Paul before the Sanhedrin. In a similar way to when our Lord Jesus Christ appears before them, the hearing commences with an illegality from the High Priest, Ananias. That corrupt priest commands that the Apostle be smitten on the cheek – this is contrary to the Law of Moses. Paul reacts to this violation by saying that God would in His time smite the high priest. For this answer Paul is rebuked by those of the Council. The Apostle says he had not recognised the high priest. This seems unusual as in Acts 9 this high priest had given letters to Paul authorising the persecution at Damascus. Some such as Ramsay have suggested Paul's eyesight was poor, due to malaria possibly contracted on his first missionary journey. Others suggest that this is in fact a rebuttal of the high priest's right to hold that office. Paul undoubtedly had poor eyesight as many of his letters attest eg Galatians 6:11. The Apostle sees the impossibility of him getting a fair trial and so he divides the Council on the question of the teaching of the Scriptures regarding the raising of the dead. Verse 8 tells us of the difference in teaching between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Verse 10 informs us that the disagreement became violent. Paul is once again rescued. Paul's sister's son learns of a plot to assassinate Paul and informs the chief captain. The chief captain immediately responds by sending Paul to Felix the Roman Governor in Caesarea with a heavily armed escort – a journey of two days. This heavily armed company carry with them a letter explaining why the Chief Captain has taken these measures. Chapter 24 speaks of Paul before Felix and of the flattering orator the Jews hired to prosecute the Apostle. The Apostle defends each charge magnificently. Paul points out that he came to Jerusalem for worship and to bring charitable gifts for his nation. The aged Apostle also is a Pharisee. The Pharisaic teachings were an allowable teaching among the Jews. Felix finds himself in a difficult place having some understanding of the teachings of the Way (an early name for believers in Christ Jesus). Felix detains Paul not wanting to fall out of favour with the Jews. Paul is provided with protection and liberty. Having heard of Paul's bringing charity to his fellow Jews Felix hopes to secure a bribe. Felix becomes very disturbed knowing that since he understands the reality of the coming judgment and that he would be subject to the judgment of God. Felix's life makes it certain that he will be rejected when that judgment comes. After two years Rome replaces Governor Felix with Governor Festus. Festus maintains Paul's imprisonment to please the Jews.

Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann Abimelech: Belligerent or Peaceful? Part 2 Series: Judges Scripture: Judges 8:33-35; 9 Episode: 1250   Scripture Overview: In Judges 8:33–35 and Chapter 9, Israel quickly turns away from God after Gideon's death, returning to idol worshipand forgetting the Lord who delivered them. They also fail to show loyalty to Gideon's family, despite his leadership. In Chapter 9, Abimelek, Gideon's son, seizes power by killing his seventy brothers and declaring himself king with the support of the people of Shechem. His reign is marked by deception, betrayal, and violence, ultimately leading to his downfall. God's justice prevails when Abimelek is killed in battle, fulfilling judgment for his evil deeds. Key themes include apostasy after leadership, corrupt ambition, and divine justice.   Sermon Summary: This sermon explores the tragic story of Abimelech in Judges 9 as a mirror for our own hearts, exposing the destructive path of ungodliness and the relentless pursuit of control. Pastor Josh shows how Abimelech's hunger for power, disregard for godliness, and violence led to his downfall—and how similar patterns often live quietly within us. Whether through anger, control, resentment, or spiritual drift, we risk losing peace and intimacy with God when we stop valuing His presence. Yet the sermon offers hope: where wickedness once reigned, Christ offers righteousness, peace, and restoration. The call is clear—kill the little Abimelech in you. Surrender control, return to godliness, and trust Jesus to do what power never can: bring true peace to your heart and soul.

Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann Abimelech: Belligerent or Peaceful? Part 1 Series: Judges Scripture: Judges 8:33-35; 9 Episode: 1249   Scripture Overview: In Judges 8:33–35 and Chapter 9, Israel quickly turns away from God after Gideon's death, returning to idol worshipand forgetting the Lord who delivered them. They also fail to show loyalty to Gideon's family, despite his leadership. In Chapter 9, Abimelek, Gideon's son, seizes power by killing his seventy brothers and declaring himself king with the support of the people of Shechem. His reign is marked by deception, betrayal, and violence, ultimately leading to his downfall. God's justice prevails when Abimelek is killed in battle, fulfilling judgment for his evil deeds. Key themes include apostasy after leadership, corrupt ambition, and divine justice.

Hosea 6:1-11A Confession of Trust6  “In their affliction they will rise up early toward me, saying, ‘Let us go and return to the Lord, our God, because he has snatched away, and he will heal us. He will strike, and he will bandage us. 2  He will restore us to health after two days; on the third day we will rise and live before him, 3  and we will know; we will seek to know the Lord. Like the sure-to-come dawn we will find him, and he will come to us like the early and late rain comes to the earth.' ” Israel's Transgressions4  “What will I do with you, O Ephraim? What will I do with you, O Judah? Your mercy is like an early morning cloud, and like an early dew that is going away. 5  On account of this, I cut off your prophets; I killed them with a word from my mouth, and my judgment will go out like light. 6  Because I want mercy rather than sacrifice, and knowledge of God rather than whole burnt offerings. 7  But they are like a person breaking a treaty; there he despised me. 8  Gilead is a city doing vain things, stirring up water. 9  And your strength is that of a pirate man. Priests hid the way. They killed Shechem, because they did lawlessness. 10  In the house of Israel I saw a horrible thing. There was the fornication of Ephraim; Israel and Judah were defiled. 11  Begin to reap for yourself when I return the captives of my people,   when I heal Israel. Rick Brannan, Ken M. Penner et al., The Lexham English Septuagint, Second Edition (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2020), Ho 6:1–11

Judges- Abimelech's conspiracy. Shechem and Abilelech fall. Oppression by Philistines and Amonites.

God brought comfort to Jacob and he can do it for believers today. We are given a promise that in our wanderings God will be with us through it all.

Welcome to Day 2613 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2613 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 60:1-12 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2613 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2613 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. In today's Wisdom Nugget, I'll be your guide on this insightful journey through the timeless truths found in God's Word. Together, we'll explore the depths of Scripture to uncover wisdom for everyday life. It's a joy to have you join me again today as we continue our meaningful journey through the Psalms. Today's trek brings us to Psalm 60, a unique and powerful Psalm. Psalm 60 is intriguing because it addresses a time of national crisis in ancient Israel—a time when King David's military campaigns faced unexpected setbacks, leaving Israel feeling vulnerable and abandoned. Yet even amidst these disappointments, Psalm 60 shows how the Israelites wrestled with their circumstances, honestly lamented their confusion, and ultimately placed their hope in God alone. Let's journey together through Psalm 60:1-12 from the New Living Translation. Listen closely as we unpack its truths verse by verse: Psalm 60:1-12 (NLT) 1 You have rejected us, O God, and broken our defenses. You have been angry with us; now restore us to your favor. 2 You have shaken our land and split it open. Seal the cracks, for the land trembles. 3 You have been very hard on us, making us drink wine that sent us reeling. 4 But you have raised a banner for those who fear you— a rallying point in the face of attack. 5 Now rescue your beloved people. Answer and save us by your power. 6 God has promised this by his holiness: “I will divide up Shechem with joy. I will measure out the valley of Succoth. 7 Gilead is mine, and Manasseh, too. Ephraim, my helmet, will produce my warriors, and Judah, my scepter, will produce my kings. 8 But Moab, my washbasin, will become my servant, and I will wipe my feet on Edom and shout in triumph over Philistia.” 9 Who will bring me into the fortified city? Who will bring me victory over Edom? 10 Have you rejected us, O God? Will you no longer march with our armies? 11 Oh, please help us against our enemies, for all human help is useless. 12 With God's help we will do mighty things, for he will trample down our foes. A Heartfelt Lament: Feeling Abandoned (Verses 1-3) David opens Psalm 60 with raw honesty about Israel's crisis: “You have rejected us, O God, and broken our defenses. You have been angry with us; now restore us to your favor. You have shaken our land and split it open. Seal the cracks, for the land trembles. You have been very hard on us, making us drink wine that sent us reeling.” These words capture the Israelites' deep sense of abandonment and confusion. David and the nation experienced surprising military defeats—losses they never expected. Notice how directly David speaks to God—he does not soften his words or hide his pain. In the ancient Israelite worldview, national victories indicated God's favor, while defeats suggested divine displeasure. David understands clearly that God has allowed these difficulties, yet he boldly asks God to restore them,...

Genesis 34 is a powerful and painful reminder of what happens when worldly influences creep into our lives through spiritual “cracks.” Through the story of Dinah, Shechem, and Jacob's sons, we see the destructive results of loving the world, giving in to fleshly desires, uncontrolled anger, fear, and trying to earn God's favor through works. Pastor Kyle unpacks these themes and points to the only true solution: a heart transformed by Jesus Christ. Jesus came for spiritually cracked people—and instead The post Genesis 34 – Worldly Influences, Worldly Results appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

Like the value of remembering our marriage covenant, there is tremendous value for God's people in remembering and renewing our covenant with God. We are not likely to forget that we belong to God, but we may be inclined to drift in our understanding of all that our relationship with God entails. Sermon Outline:I. We all need to remember the gracious nature of God's covenant.II. We all need to remember the unchanging standard of God's covenantIII. We all need to remember the communal character of God's covenantSermon Discussion Questions:1. Why do you think God commanded Israel to renew the covenant at this point in the conquest?2. Joshua builds an altar of uncut stones to offer burnt and peace offerings. What might the use of uncut stones teach us about grace and human effort? What does the fact that the sacrifices came before the giving of the commands teach us?3. The blessings and the curses of the covenant were proclaimed at Shechem—where God first promised the land to Abraham. How does this moment demonstrate the faithfulness of God to keep his promises?4. Why do you think it was important that nothing was omitted when Joshua read the Word to the people? How does this challenge our tendency to focus on comfortable parts of Scripture while avoiding difficult passages?5. How might viewing Sunday worship as covenant renewal change your engagement with church gatherings and the Lord's Supper?

Dinah, Shechem, and two over-zealous brothers.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Judges 9-10; Psalm 49; 1 Cor 16 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to another heart-stirring episode of the Daily Radio Bible, with your host, Hunter, guiding us through the scriptures on this final day of March. As we journey through the books of Judges, Psalms, and First Corinthians, Hunter invites us to reflect on the choices we make. From the story of Abimelech and his fateful decisions in the book of Judges, to the wisdom of entrusting our lives to God's hands, this episode encourages us to choose God's way over our own. Alongside the powerful scripture readings, Hunter offers prayers for guidance and reminds us of the immeasurable love that redeems us through Jesus Christ. Join us as we conclude the month with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit attuned to God's direction. Let's delve into the Word and allow it to shape us, reminding us of the profound truth that we are deeply loved. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Will it be 70 coins or 70 brothers? Will it be my way or God's way? Abimelech, son of Gideon, had a choice that day. He could choose his 70 brothers or he could choose 70 coins, coins that would be used to hire those who'd kill his brothers. He could live life on God's terms or he could be king in his own eyes with those 70 coins. It seems God is always giving us the opportunity to reaffirm our decisions: to make this life about us or to make it about Him. I can choose my way or I can choose God's way. My way always leads to blindness. God's way will lead to awakening. And I will see God, his provision, his victory, God's peace. Abimelech should have known that. He should've seen that in his father Gideon's life, but he chose not to see it. He chose to see things his own way. Abimelech would choose the 70 coins. His 70 brothers and many others would soon lose their lives because of that. And Abimelech himself would lose his life. Abraham made a choice under a tree, an oak tree in Shechem, the same place where this story has taken place, and he chose God's way. Under that tree, he reaffirmed his covenant relationship with God, and through him came the birth of many brothers from every tribe, language, nation, and people. All over the world, people like you and me have been added to the family of God because someone like Abraham chose God's way and not his own. God's way was for his son, a descendant of Abraham, to come and choose his father over and over again, all the way to the cross. He offered himself on a tree so that we might have the power to choose God's way and experience God's love and life every day. God now lives in and through us because of the choice Jesus made for his father. Jesus choosing the way of the father has made a way for us to see, to be awakened to his life, his provision, his victory, his peace, and his grace. Today, let's choose his way. Let's choose life. Let's choose the son. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul. That's the prayer that I have for my family, for my wife and my daughters and my son. And that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

In this Bible Story, Israel desires for a king eventually choosing Abimelech, who ruled over Israel with a cruel fist. When he was seeking to burn down a tower in the middle of a city, a woman dropped a millstone on his head killing him. This story is inspired by Judges 9. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Judges 9:15 from the King James Version.Episode 64: Gideon ruled as a judge over Israel for 40 peaceful years, and during that time he had 70 sons. However, one of his sons wanted to be king, and after the death of his father, Abimelek killed all of his brothers…except one. Jotham, the youngest son escaped and gave a scathing rebuke to the people of Shechem who supported the slaughter of his brothers. In that rebuke, he reminds both them and us that if we, in pride and selfish motives, commit such evil, we will receive the consequences of that evil back on our own lives.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the World, Not of It | Genesis 34 How do we live in the world without becoming like it? In this sermon on Genesis 34, we explore the stark difference between revenge and justice, the dangers of passivity, and the call for God's people to be set apart. • Revenge vs. Justice – The sons of Jacob sought revenge, but their actions were disproportionate and unjust. What does the Bible say about true justice, and how should we respond to wrongdoing?• The Danger of Passive Leadership – Jacob's failure to protect his daughter Dinah led to devastating consequences. What can we learn about the responsibility of fathers and godly leadership?• Living in the World Without Becoming Like It – Jacob's compromise in settling in Shechem instead of Bethel had serious repercussions. Are we compromising in our walk with God? Join us as we unpack these powerful lessons and discover how God's mercy and justice guide us to live faithfully in a fallen world.

Joseph's Dreams37.1 Jacob lived in the land of his father's sojournings, in the land of Canaan.2 These are the generations of Jacob.Joseph, being seventeen years old, was pasturing the flock with his brothers. He was a boy with the sons of Bilhah and Zilpah, his father's wives. And Joseph brought a bad report of them to their father. 3 Now Israel loved Joseph more than any other of his sons, because he was the son of his old age. And he made him a robe of many colors. 4 But when his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him and could not speak peacefully to him.5 Now Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers they hated him even more. 6 He said to them, “Hear this dream that I have dreamed: 7 Behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and behold, my sheaf arose and stood upright. And behold, your sheaves gathered around it and bowed down to my sheaf.” 8 His brothers said to him, “Are you indeed to reign over us? Or are you indeed to rule over us?” So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words.9 Then he dreamed another dream and told it to his brothers and said, “Behold, I have dreamed another dream. Behold, the sun, the moon, and eleven stars were bowing down to me.” 10 But when he told it to his father and to his brothers, his father rebuked him and said to him, “What is this dream that you have dreamed? Shall I and your mother and your brothers indeed come to bow ourselves to the ground before you?”11 And his brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the saying in mind.Joseph Sold by His Brothers12 Now his brothers went to pasture their father's flock near Shechem.13 And Israel said to Joseph, “Are not your brothers pasturing the flock at Shechem? Come, I will send you to them.” And he said to him, “Here I am.” 14 So he said to him, “Go now, see if it is well with your brothers and with the flock, and bring me word.” So he sent him from the Valley of Hebron, and he came to Shechem. 15 And a man found him wandering in the fields. And the man asked him, “What are you seeking?” 16 “I am seeking my brothers,” he said. “Tell me, please, where they are pasturing the flock.” 17 And the man said, “They have gone away, for I heard them say, ‘Let us go to Dothan.'” So Joseph went after his brothers and found them at Dothan.18 They saw him from afar, and before he came near to them they conspired against him to kill him. 19 They said to one another, “Here comes this dreamer. 20 Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits. Then we will say that a fierce animal has devoured him, and we will see what will become of his dreams.” 21 But when Reuben heard it, he rescued him out of their hands, saying, “Let us not take his life.”22 And Reuben said to them, “Shed no blood; throw him into this pit here in the wilderness, but do not lay a hand on him”—that he might rescue him out of their hand to restore him to his father. 23 So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the robe of many colors that he wore. 24 And they took him and threw him into a pit. The pit was empty; there was no water in it.25 Then they sat down to eat. And looking up they saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead, with their camels bearing gum, balm, and myrrh, on their way to carry it down to Egypt. 26 Then Judah said to his brothers, “What profit is it if we kill our brother and conceal his blood? 27 Come, let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let not our hand be upon him, for he is our brother, our own flesh.” And his brothers listened to him. 28 Then Midianite traders passed by. And they drew Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver. They took Joseph to Egypt.29 When Reuben returned to the pit and saw that Joseph was not in the pit, he tore his clothes 30 and returned to his brothers and said, “The boy is gone, and I, where shall I go?” 31 Then they took Joseph's robe...

Garth Heckman The David Alliance  TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com  Abe is the father of our faith Galatians 3:6 In the same way, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” 7 The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God. 8 What's more, the Scriptures looked forward to this time when God would make the Gentiles right in his sight because of their faith. God proclaimed this good news to Abraham long ago when he said, “All nations will be blessed through you.” 9 So all who put their faith in Christ share the same blessing Abraham received because of his faith.     Detailed outline of Abraham's life as described in the Bible, primarily in the Book of Genesis: I. Early Life and Call (Genesis 11:26-12:9) C. The Divine Call: God commands Abram to leave his country, His family, and father's house.   *God must have shown up in a major way for Abraham to just leave.  He was the father of our Faith. He practiced great faith with no history or foundation in who God was.   7 promises give to Abraham by God  -1 I will make your descendants/nation a great nation AND HE PROMISES HIM TO BE A GREAT NATION… NATIONS ARE DEFINED BY A PEOPLE WHO SHARE A HISTORY, HAVE TERRITORIAL BOUNDARIES, and led by one government.     -2 I will bless you  -3 I will make your name great  -4 I will make you a blessing to others  -5 I will bless those that bless you  -6 I will curse those who curse you  -7 Through you people from every nation on the earth will be blessed.      Abrahams father died in Haran…. And now… D. Journey to Canaan: Abram, Sarai, and Lot depart from Haran. Abram is 75 years old. They travel to Shechem in Canaan. God appears to Abram, promising the land to his offspring. Abram builds an altar to the Lord. Abram moves to Bethel and then continues to the Negev. II. Sojourn in Egypt and Return (Genesis 12:10-13:18)

Send us a text"Renewing Your Vows" (Joshua 24:1-28)Welcome to today's episode! In the spirit of renewing our commitments, we explore Joshua's powerful call for Israel to reaffirm its covenant with God. Just as couples renew their marriage vows to recommit to one another, Joshua challenges the nation—and us—to reflect on God's gracious acts and to renew our own spiritual vows. Join us as we rediscover the joy of wholeheartedly choosing to serve the Lord, today and every day.Episode NotesHistorical and Spiritual Context:Joshua gathers all the tribes at Shechem—a place steeped in biblical significance—to recount God's mighty deeds from Abraham to the deliverance from Egypt and the conquest of the land.This setting, rich with memories of divine intervention and covenant, makes it the perfect place for a renewed commitment.Key Themes and Points:Remembering God's Faithfulness:Joshua reminds the people of God's work in rescuing their forefathers, delivering them from Egypt, and providing for them in a land they did not labor for.The narrative underscores that every blessing in their lives is a result of God's grace.Renewing Your Commitment:Joshua's address is essentially a call to renew the covenant—a spiritual vow to serve the Lord wholeheartedly.The people are invited to make a conscious decision to forsake idols and reaffirm their allegiance to God.Practical Application for Today:Just as the Israelites renewed their vows, we too can take a moment to reflect on our own spiritual journey.Consider writing down or verbally affirming your renewed commitment to follow the Lord, ensuring that nothing—no worldly idol—takes precedence over God.The Dual Call – Love and Fear:Joshua commands the people to love the Lord, serve Him faithfully, and fear Him in the sense of reverence and respect.This balanced approach reminds us that while God's grace is abundant, our commitment must be deliberate and unyielding.Action Steps:Reflect on the ways God has transformed your life and delivered you from past struggles.Evaluate any modern-day idols that might be distracting you from a deeper relationship with Him.Consider renewing your spiritual vows—whether by writing them down, praying over them, or sharing them with a trusted friend—as a tangible reminder of your commitment.Thank you for joining us on this journey of renewed commitment. May the truths of Joshua 24 inspire you to say, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord,” every single day. Enjoy the episode!Support the showFor an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Text: Genesis 34; VariousTheme: While we can't imagine the pain in Jacob's story, we learn some crucial lessons in a very disturbing and difficult period of his life. Fortunately, God is there with us, even when the unimaginable happens.Key Verses: Genesis 34:7 (NLT) Meanwhile, Jacob's sons had come in from the field as soon as they heard what had happened. They were shocked and furious that their sister had been raped. Shechem had done a disgraceful thing against Jacob's family, something that should never be done.Message Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49404118

KING LEMUEL is unknown outside of the reference in Proverbs 31. It may be an epithet of Solomon meaning “belonging to God,” or Lemuel may have been an Arab king descended from Massa, the seventh son of Ishmael. What we can say for certain is that verses 10–31 of Proverbs 31 is a well-known section of scripture that praises the virtues of an excellent wife. We discuss the value placed on trust between a husband and wife in these verses. In the ideal marital relationship, both spouses trust each other implicitly. The virtues of a woman who embraces her role in the household should be appreciated by the rest of her family: Her children rise up and call her blessed;  her husband also, and he praises her:  “Many women have done excellently,  but you surpass them all.” (Proverbs 31:28–29, ESV) We also begin our study of the division of the Davidic kingdom, as prophesied by Ahijah. Solomon's son Rehoboam, rejecting the wise counsel of the old men who'd served his father, angers the northern tribes by promising to govern more harshly than Solomon. As a result, Jeroboam led the northern tribes to rebel. He set up his capital at Shechem and set up golden calves as the “god” (or “gods”—elohim can be singular or plural, but in context is more likely singular) who brought Israel out of Egypt. We explain why we believe the golden calves represent the Canaanite father-god El rather than Yahweh or Baal, as many Bible commentators teach. Question of the week: Are the hooks in the jaws that draw Gog of Magog to make war on Israel in the end times (Ezekiel 38 and 39) Israel's farmland or natural gas fields? Sharon's niece, Sarah Sachleben, was recently diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer, and the medical bills are piling up. If you are led to help, please go to GilbertHouse.org/hopeforsarah. Our new book The Gates of Hell is now available in paperback (https://amzn.to/4esHHgu), Kindle (https://amzn.to/3XR6KnV), and as an audiobook at Audible (https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Gates-of-Hell-Audiobook/B0DCX4YNVZ)! Derek's new book Destination: Earth, co-authored with Donna Howell and Allie Anderson, is now available in paperback (https://amzn.to/3YOHZJE), Kindle (https://amzn.to/3UBG1K5), and as an audiobook at Audible (https://www.audible.com/pd/Destination-Earth-Audiobook/B0DDV1ZC8R?qid=1730562326)! If you are looking for a text of the Book of 1 Enoch to follow our monthly study, you can try these sources: Parallel translations by R. H. Charles (1917) and Richard Laurence (1821) Modern English translation by George W. E. Nickelsburg and James VanderKam (link to book at Amazon)Book of 1 Enoch - Standard English Version by Dr. Jay Winter (link opens free PDF)Book of 1 Enoch - R. H. Charles translation (link opens free PDF) The SkyWatchTV store has a special offer on Dr. Michael Heiser's two-volume set A Companion to the Book of Enoch. Get both books, the R. H. Charles translation of 1 Enoch, and a DVD interview with Mike and Steven Bancarz for a donation of $35 plus shipping and handling. Link: https://bit.ly/heiser-enoch Follow us! • X: @gilberthouse_tv | @sharonkgilbert | @derekgilbert• Telegram: t.me/gilberthouse | t.me/sharonsroom | t.me/viewfromthebunker• YouTube: @GilbertHouse | @UnravelingRevelation• Facebook.com/GilbertHouseFellowship JOIN US AND SPECIAL GUEST CARL TEICHRIB IN ISRAEL! Our next tour of Israel is October 19–30, 2025 with an optional three-day extension to Jordan. For more information and to reserve your place, log on to GilbertHouse.org/travel. Thank you for making our Build Barn Better project a reality! We truly appreciate your support. If you are so led, you can help out at GilbertHouse.org/donate. Get our free app! It connects you to these studies plus our weekly video programs Unraveling Revelation and A View from the Bunker, and the podcast that started this journey in 2005, P.I.D. Radio. Best of all, it bypasses the gatekeepers of Big Tech! The app is available for iOS, Android, Roku, and Apple TV. Links to the app stores are at www.gilberthouse.org/app/. Video on demand of our best teachings! Stream presentations and teachings based on our research at our new video on demand site! Gilbert House T-shirts and mugs! New to our store is a line of GHTV and Redwing Saga merch! Check it out at GilbertHouse.org/store! Think better, feel better! Our partners at Simply Clean Foods offer freeze-dried, 100% GMO-free food and delicious, vacuum-packed fair trade coffee from Honduras. Find out more at GilbertHouse.org/store. Our favorite Bible study tools! Check the links in the right-hand column at www.GilbertHouse.org.

KING LEMUEL is unknown outside of the reference in Proverbs 31. It may be an epithet of Solomon meaning “belonging to God,” or Lemuel may have been an Arab king descended from Massa, the seventh son of Ishmael. What we can say for certain is that verses 10–31 of Proverbs 31 is a well-known section of scripture that praises the virtues of an excellent wife. We discuss the value placed on trust between a husband and wife in these verses. In the ideal marital relationship, both spouses trust each other implicitly. The virtues of a woman who embraces her role in the household should be appreciated by the rest of her family: Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” (Proverbs 31:28–29, ESV) We also begin our study of the division of the Davidic kingdom, as prophesied by Ahijah. Solomon's son Rehoboam, rejecting the wise counsel of the old men who'd served his father, angers the northern tribes by promising to govern more harshly than Solomon. As a result, Jeroboam led the northern tribes to rebel. He set up his capital at Shechem and set up golden calves as the “god” (or “gods”—elohim can be singular or plural, but in context is more likely singular) who brought Israel out of Egypt. We explain why we believe the golden calves represent the Canaanite father-god El rather than Yahweh or Baal, as many Bible commentators teach. Question of the week: Are the hooks in the jaws that draw Gog of Magog to make war on Israel in the end times (Ezekiel 38 and 39) Israel's farmland or natural gas fields?

Episode NotesEpisode 93: Matthew 5 - Blessings, Curses, and Moving Mountains: The Architecture of Matthew's GospelMarch 4, 2025 - Host: Dr. Gregory HallIn this episode we're diving into Matthew chapter 5 and we'll notice a fascinating aspect of Matthew gospel. Matthew organizes Jesus' major addresses into five distinct sermons. The first and the last of which are delivered on mountains. and today, we'll unpack a link back to the Old Testament story of Moses and Joshua.Resources Referenced and/or Read:Thanks to Dr. Warren Gage for the bulk of the material in this episode. Gage, W. A. (2010). Essays in Biblical Theology (pp. 63–65). Warren A. Gage. - The Blessings and Cursings upon Gerizim and Ebal - The law of Moses instructed the people, when Joshua led them into the good land promised to the fathers, to assemble before the mountains of Gerizim and Ebal for a ceremony reaffirming their fidelity to the Lord and the law of the covenant (Deut 27–28). The entire nation of Israel was to be arranged in ranks by their tribes in the valley between the slopes of the two mountains. Six tribes stood upon the skirts of Ebal, and six tribes stood upon the skirts of Gerizim. Joshua spoke all the law of Moses in the hearing of the twelve tribes of Israel (Josh 8:30–35). The six tribes upon Gerizim spoke the blessings that would be poured out as long as the nation obeyed the law and the covenant (Deut 28:1–14). The six tribes upon Ebal spoke the curses that would come upon the nation if they disobeyed the law (Deut 27:15–28). All the tribes affirmed that, upon their disobedience, a nation from afar would come upon them like the eagle, besieging the fortified walls of Israel (Deut 28:49–52) and driving all the people into exile among the nations (Deut 28:64–68). As each group of six tribes spoke the blessings and the cursings of the law, the six tribes opposite answered with an antiphonal avowal of their fidelity to the covenant and their imprecatory oath of obedience to the Lord. In the New Testament, Matthew's Gospel portrays Jesus as the True Joshua presiding over a new ceremony of blessing and cursing. To recognize this portrayal, we must understand something of the structure of the first Gospel. Matthew arranges his Gospel around seven mountains. These mountains are 1) the mountain of the temptation (4:8), 2) the mountain of the beatitudes (5:1), 3) the mountain of the separation (14:23), 4) the mountain of the feeding in the wilderness (15:29), 5) the mountain of the transfiguration (17:1), 6) the mountain of the Olivet discourse (24:3), and 7) the mountain of the commissioning (28:16). The seven Matthean mountains are arranged chiastically, with corresponding pairs arrayed around the central mountain of the wilderness feeding. The mountains relevant to the Joshua typology are the second mountain and the sixth, which frame Matthew's five discourses. The second mountain is the mountain of the beatitudes in Galilee, the site of the first discourse called the “Sermon on the Mount” (5:1–8:28). The corresponding sixth mountain, the site of the last or “Olivet Discourse,” is the mountain before Jerusalem (24:3–26:1). Matthew's typology of the True Joshua is built around the relationship between the blessings pronounced upon the mount of the beatitudes in Galilee and the woes (or curses) spoken against the Pharisees in Jerusalem. By juxtaposing these mountains, Matthew anticipates the blessings to descend upon the mountain of the Gentiles, which has become Gerizim, and the destruction to come upon Jerusalem, which has become Ebal. Jesus solemnly pronounces nine beatitudes upon the mountain in Galilee (Matt 5:3–12). Eight corresponding woes or curses are enumerated against Jerusalem, framed as antiphonal responses to the beatitudes spoken in Galilee. The juxtaposition of Matthew's two mountains constitutes the restatement of the solemn ceremony at Shechem, and darkly foretells the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the people for their disobedience to the law of Moses in rejecting the Prophet of whom Moses spoke (Matt 24:2).Matthew Study Resources at the Rethinking Scripture Website: https://rethinkingscripture.com/matthew-study-resources/Here are a few resources regarding my first tour guide in Israel, Halvor Ronning.New American Standard Bible: 1995 update (Mt 4:18–22). (1995). The Lockman Foundation.Show Music:Intro/Outro - "Growth" by Armani Delos SantosTransition Music - produced by Jacob A. HallPodcast Website:The All-America Listener Challenge Updates: https://rethinkingscripture.comMy New Podcast Studio... The Upper Room: https://rethinkingscripture.com/podcast-episodes/More information about The Homes and Help Initiative: https://rethinkingscripture.com/homes-help-initiative/Sister site: RethinkingRest.comRethinking Rest... the Book is now available. The Rethinking Rest audiobook is available only on Audible: More information: https://rethinkingrest.com/the-book/Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RethinkingScripture Twitter: @RethinkingStuffInstagram: Rethinking_ScriptureYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6YCLg2UldJiA0dsg0KkvLAPowered and distributed by Simplecast.

"Joseph's Bones" • Hebrews 11:22 - Elder Bryce Lowrance. Joseph believed the promise of God that his family would return to the promised land so he had his family swear an oath that his bones would be taken back to that land when God delivered them in the future. This shows that he sought another country like his forefathers and believed in the resurrection. Elder Lowrance traces the fulfillment of this promise and shows how Shechem is a vital place of covenant giving and renewal and experiences with God. Shechem is a picture of the deliverance of God in the work of Jesus Christ.

Genesis 371 Jacob lived in the land where his father had stayed, the land of Canaan.2 This is the account of Jacob's family line. Joseph, a young man of seventeen, was tending the flocks with his brothers, the sons of Bilhah and the sons of Zilpah, his father's wives, and he brought their father a bad report about them.3 Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made an ornate robe for him. 4 When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him.5 Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. 6 He said to them, “Listen to this dream I had: 7 We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it.”8 His brothers said to him, “Do you intend to reign over us? Will you actually rule us?” And they hated him all the more because of his dream and what he had said.9 Then he had another dream, and he told it to his brothers. “Listen,” he said, “I had another dream, and this time the sun and moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.”10 When he told his father as well as his brothers, his father rebuked him and said, “What is this dream you had? Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow down to the ground before you?” 11 His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the matter in mind.12 Now his brothers had gone to graze their father's flocks near Shechem, 13 and Israel said to Joseph, “As you know, your brothers are grazing the flocks near Shechem. Come, I am going to send you to them.” “Very well,” he replied.14 So he said to him, “Go and see if all is well with your brothers and with the flocks, and bring word back to me.” Then he sent him off from the Valley of Hebron. When Joseph arrived at Shechem, 15 a man found him wandering around in the fields and asked him, “What are you looking for?”16 He replied, “I'm looking for my brothers. Can you tell me where they are grazing their flocks?”17 “They have moved on from here,” the man answered. “I heard them say, ‘Let's go to Dothan.'” So Joseph went after his brothers and found them near Dothan. 18 But they saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him.19 “Here comes that dreamer!” they said to each other. 20 “Come now, let's kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we'll see what comes of his dreams.”21 When Reuben heard this, he tried to rescue him from their hands. “Let's not take his life,” he said. 22 “Don't shed any blood. Throw him into this cistern here in the wilderness, but don't lay a hand on him.” Reuben said this to rescue him from them and take him back to his father.23 So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe—the ornate robe he was wearing— 24 and they took him and threw him into the cistern. The cistern was empty; there was no water in it.25 As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were loaded with spices, balm and myrrh, and they were on their way to take them down to Egypt.26 Judah said to his brothers, “What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? 27 Come, let's sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood.” His brothers agreed.28 So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.29 When Reuben returned to the cistern and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes. 30 He went back to his brothers and said, “The boy isn't there! Where can I turn now?”31 Then they got Joseph's robe, slaughtered a goat and dipped the robe in the blood. 32 They took the ornate robe back to their father and said, “We found this. Examine it to see whether it is your son's robe.”33 He recognized it and said, “It is my son's robe! Some ferocious animal has devoured him. Joseph has surely been torn to pieces.”34 Then Jacob tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and mourned for his son many days. 35 All his sons and daughters came to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted. “No,” he said, “I will continue to mourn until I join my son in the grave.” So his father wept for him.36 Meanwhile, the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard.

You know – God is full of promises. Amazing promises. But so often – it's hard to see how those promises fit into the reality of our lives – here and now.   Promises, Promises, Promises Well, I am really excited because we're starting a new series this week called, "It's Time to Take the Promised Land". What sort of a series title is that? "It's Time to Take the Promised Land". Well, here's my hunch. We live in a world that promises so much: A world of brands and products and experiences and travel and luxury – a world that promises so much. Marketers talk about the brand promise. For example, here's my favourite. On TV, the advertisements for margarine or breakfast cereal or low-fat milk. Right? Have you ever noticed them? Here's what they look like. Here's the setting. It's a kind of trendy, today kind of kitchen and the sun's always streaming in through the windows. It's never raining; it's always sunny. Mum's smiling as she prepares breakfast. She's slim and happy and well-adjusted, and this well-adjusted teenager bounds in smiling and spreads margarine on their bread or pours the milk on their cereal or whatever, and then ... Then this cool-looking forty-something dad strolls in, and he is good-looking, and then he grabs a piece of toast and kisses his wife before he reads the newspaper. This is the sort of family and breakfast that most people would like to have, but the reality ... Well, the reality's a bit different to that ad. I mean, the reality is that there are millions of people watching that ad who don't know where their next meal's coming from. The reality is that a lot of the people watching that ad, their families and marriages are falling apart. The reality is, even if they aren't, they're bringing up teenagers and that's tough and there's dysfunction. The reality is, most people's families and kitchens and lives look nothing like those glossy images on the ad. Images selling margarine or cereal or milk, making a brand promise that if you buy this product ... well ... this is what your life will look like. You look at that in the cold, hard light of day, and it's absolutely nuts. Right? I mean, it's crazy to try to link a margarine to a well-adjusted family. New car ads are the same. They're always out on the open road; there's only ever that one car on the road, and the brand promise is if you buy me, you'll have the freedom to roam. Isn't it funny how the car ads never have someone stuck in peak-hour traffic, ever? See, there are so many things in this world that hold out a promise that they can't deliver. On the one hand, we want to live out those images of success the marketers kind of dangle under our noses. On the other, we so often ... well ... we never do. We never quite get there. It never quite works the way that the advert says it will, and that's the psychology of marketing. You create an image that creates desire, and the person sees the gap between the image and their reality, and so they spend money to buy that thing to buy the brand promise, and they discover it doesn't work, and so the marketers dish up the next image, and round and round and round we go, on this treadmill of broken promises. It makes our consumer economies go round, and here you and I are with this treadmill of broken promises, brands that never really deliver their brand promise, and God comes along with a promise. God makes lots of promises. "I'll be your God, and you will be My people, and I'll walk among you. I'll bless you and keep you and comfort you and guide you" ... Jesus said, "I have come that you may have life in all of its abundance." It's almost like God's painting this picture of a promised land – a land that's almost too good to be true – a land ... a life ... well, to you and me, it seems a bit like the kitchen and that family in the margarine ad. In the reality of our lives, the promises of God can be hard to swallow, especially when we're still on that treadmill of broken promises, going round and round and round ... In this day and age, God's promises are harder to accept than ever. Now ... now we're getting close to the heart of this new series, "It's Time to Take the Promised Land", because God is a God of promise, and brand Jesus is the one brand that actually delivers. God's plan is to lead you and me into His promised land – a land flowing with milk and honey, a land of blessing, but (here's the but) He involves us in that process and we have a part to play. The first step that we're going to talk about today in this whole thing of walking into God's promised land is accepting His promise in the first place; letting Him write that promise on our hearts, and believing it with all that we are; believing it with every fibre of our beings, with our very lives. You see, we can't have the promised land (we can't go there, we can't settle) unless first we believe it in our hearts. God is a God that calls us to faith, and faith means believing before we see it. Now we're going to talk about that very thing today because if we're going to talk about accepting the promises of God, you can't go there without talking about it: Faith. It's when we place our faith in Him. When we place our faith in His promises, then ... then He calls us on to cross over into that land, and to take the land. Now that's a shock and a surprise to me. We're going to be looking at that a bit over the coming weeks. It's really important that we understand the journey. God's promised land isn't like pizza delivery. You know, He doesn't ring the doorbell and deliver the promised land; God actually calls us out of the front door, to take a step of faith, and it can be a tough journey with battles all along the way. We're going to be looking through the book of Joshua over the coming few weeks in the Old Testament, because the book of Joshua is about the time that Israel crossed over into the promised land. They'd been in slavery in Egypt and then on the exodus for forty years, and the book of Joshua begins right on the threshold of the promised land, and they have an upfront decision to make. Do I really want God's promised land, really? And if I do, am I going to let Him write His promise on my heart, and carry it round with me through thick and thin – the bright sunny days, and the cold wet days? Well, today's programme is all about letting Him write His promise on our hearts, His plan for us to dwell in His promised land. As we're going round and round and round on that treadmill of broken promises, where many people have this empty unfulfilled life, we have a decision today to make. We can decide that it's time to step off that treadmill and to take the promised land.   One Man's Promise So where does this term, "The promised land" come from? Well, it all begins when God promises some land to Abraham. Now God first engages with His people, Israel ultimately, through Abraham – the father of Israel. Abraham was living very comfortably indeed. He was quite wealthy, in a place called Ur, which is near Babylon or around modern-day Bagdad, and God calls him out of that place. If you have a Bible, grab it, and open it up at Genesis chapter 12. God calls him out of this place. This is what happens: Now the LORD said to Abram, ‘Go from your country and your family and your father's house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great so that you will be a blessing. Incredible promise for Abram and Sarai, who were old. I mean, they were well into their seventies; they were childless, and there is a two-part blessing here, two-part promise: Land and children, but there in the comfort and the wealth, they believe God, so they step out. They up and leave all of that. They take their possessions and servants and animals, and they hit the road and head westward to a land called Canaan. Now, what happened when they got there? Well, we read about that in Genesis 12:6-8: When they had come to the land of Canaan, Abram passed through the land to the place at Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time, the Canaanites were in the land. Then the LORD appeared to Abram and said, ‘To your offspring I will give this land.' So Abram built an altar to the LORD who had appeared to him. Now just think about God's promise to this old man. Firstly, your descendants. The guy is seventy years old, and he and his wife have not been able to have children, but God promises him descendants. Not only descendants, but God says, "I will make you a great nation". Really? And, "I will give this land to your descendants". Imagine Abram. "But God, I'm in my seventies. I don't have any children. This land is occupied by the Canaanites". It was a pretty impossible promise, but right here, right in the middle of all this impossibility, the promised land is born. God promised it to Abram, yet Abram believed this promise with his life. How do we know that? Because he actually left his comfortable existence in Ur, and followed down the dusty trail of God's promise, over hill and dale, and he gets to this land of God's impossible promise – a land filled with Canaanites, who weren't about to say, "Well, yeah, sure, Abram. Take our land! We don't mind", and the childless Abram ... what does he do? He builds an altar to God. He honours God. He bows down and says, "Well, God, you know, even though this doesn't make a whole bunch of sense, I'm going to believe You", and God knows what's going on in Abram's heart. He takes him up a hill and makes the promise again. You can read it. Flick over to Genesis 13:14: The LORD said to Abram after Lot had separated from him, ‘Raise up your eyes now, and look from the place where you are: North and south and east and west, for all the land that you see I will give you, and to your offspring forever. I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth so that if one can count the dust of the earth, your offspring also can be counted. Rise up! Walk the length and the breadth of this land, for I will give it to you.' So Abram moved his tent and came and settled by the oaks of Mamre, which were at Hebron, and there he built an altar to the LORD. I love how God lays out the land before Abram. Can you see that picture? They're on-top of the hill and God is speaking to Abram, who's thinking about this impossible promise, and little by little God is breathing this promised land into the man's heart. "Go and walk through it, as far as your eyes can see, and let Me make an outrageous promise," says God, "So many descendants you will have that they will be more than the grains of dust on the earth", and Abram built another altar and honoured God. See what's going on here? God is taking him through a process, a huge leap. He's an old man with no kids, and God is promising him a promised land full of his own descendants, and God's leading Abram gently into a place where he can believe. Like you and me, this guy's a man and he's human. He's struggling with it in his heart. We can read about it in Genesis chapter 15. Abram goes to God and says, ‘Look, I still don't have a son. I mean, this other man will have to be my heir. How's this promise ever going to happen?' Look at what God says and does (Genesis 15:4). God says: 'No, that man won't be your heir. No one but your very own son shall be your heir.' God took Abram outside and said, ‘Look towards the heavens and count the stars if you're able.' Then God said to him, ‘So shall your descendants be', and Abram believed the LORD and the LORD reckoned it unto him as righteousness.” What a beautiful picture! Abram is aching! He wants to believe in God's promises. He wants to believe in the land and descendants and mighty nations, but it's so hard. He just can't see how God could possibly deliver on this promise, so God takes him out to the stars – the Milky Weigh; this unbelievable sight, without the city lights and the smog. There are so many stars there, and finally the word of God, the promise of God, God's promised land drops into Abram's heart. Still he makes plenty of mistakes along the way. You can read about it in the next few chapters of Genesis, but the promised land is written on Abram's heart. Ultimately he has a son, Isaac. That's the only part of the promise he ever sees, and Isaac has a son called Jacob and Jacob has twelve sons, who are the fathers of the twelve tribes of Israel. They ended up in slavery in Egypt and grew into a mighty nation and then Moses led them out through the Red Sea. And they experienced the desert, the exodus for forty years, and all of a sudden one day, this mighty nation of Israel was standing on the banks of the Jordan, ready to cross over into the promised land, but that took centuries to happen. We're going to look at that next week, but there on that night, under the stars alone with God, the promised land was written on Abram's heart, and he believed.   God's Promise to Us I'm always so touched by the story of how God reaches out to Abraham. Sure; it's a story about Abraham, but Abraham's not Mr Perfecto Super-Christian. He's human; he's frail; he has struggles like you and me, and he struggles to believe in this outrageous promise from God. Then gently, and tenderly, the LORD leads him to believe in the promised land – this mighty nation. If you and I put ourselves in Abraham's shoes just for a minute, this old man, wouldn't we struggle too? Next week we're going to be starting in the book of Joshua and looking what it means to cross over into the promised land, and the battles involved in taking that promised land, and why God does it that way. I mean, this promised land was supposed to be flowing with milk and honey. Wouldn't you think you'd just arrive? Wouldn't it be like a summer resort with a swimming-pool and a bellhop to carry your bags up to your suite? Well, that's the next few weeks, but over the next few minutes, it's time for you and me to consider this promised land and whether we'll believe. Faith is the key to the promise. Faith is the gift from God, and the reason you and I are together today (no doubt) is that God wants to unlock the promise in your heart, as He breathes faith into you through His Word. As Israel went from Egypt through the Red Sea, and then forty years in the desert, how many Israelites that crossed through the Red Sea at the beginning of the exodus crossed through the Jordan into the promised land forty years later? Do you know? How many? Out of hundreds of thousands and probably millions, how many? Just two: Joshua and Caleb, and Psalm 106 tells us exactly why: They forgot the God who saved them, who had done great things in Egypt, miracles in the land of Ham and awesome deeds by the Red Sea. So God said He would destroy them, had not Moses His chosen one stood in the breach before Him to keep His wrath from destroying them. Then they despised the pleasant land; they did not believe His promise. They grumbled in their tents and did not obey the Law, so He swore to them with uplifted hand that He would make them fall in the desert. That's why today's message is so important. You and I, like Abraham, we look at the circumstances of our lives and we look around, and it's hard to believe sometimes in God's promises. Maybe we even have a grumble about God and His promises ... That's going to keep us out of His promised land. People sometimes say, "Well, Berni, you talk about this promised land. It's obvious what it meant to the Israelites back then, but what does it mean to you and me here and now?" Well, we need to go from the Old Testament to the New Testament. There's a transition from the physical land to the spiritual one - something that people struggled with when Jesus talked about the kingdom of God. They thought Jesus had come to kick the Roman occupiers out of the promised land, the physical land, but He was talking about something entirely different. There are so many passages we could go through in the New Testament, but a couple that really explain the promised land that God has given to us through Jesus His Son ... Let's have a look at them. Luke 17:20. Flick over to there: Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, ‘The kingdom of God doesn't come with your careful observation, nor will people say, “Here it is,” or “There it is”, because the kingdom of God is within you.' The promised land isn't something out there. It's not a new house or a new car or all that stuff. The promised land is the kingdom of God; it's God living and dwelling and ruling in our hearts. Again, Jesus explained it this way in Matthew 13:44: The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy he went and sold all that he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. The promised land is the treasure of God Himself in our hearts, our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name; Your kingdom come. John 14:23. Jesus said: If anyone loves Me, he will obey My teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to make our home with him. There are plenty of people who believe in Jesus for their eternal life. Jesus died for my sin; therefore I'm forgiven; therefore I have eternal life. Then what they do is, they kind of put it in their filing cabinet and file it under insurance policy, and live a miserable life. Jesus promised a lot of things – a rich, abundant life, as well as trials and persecutions. He didn't promise us it would be easy to follow Him; what He did promise is that our relationship with Him would fill us to overflowing with abundant joy and peace. That's where the promised land is today – in our hearts; in our relationship with Jesus Christ; in that abundance of life that comes through that relationship. Let me take you back to that starry night: Abram, and the LORD led him tenderly to the point where God wrote His promises on Abram's heart – a promise that Abram believed against all odds; a promise that God delivered against all odds. You and I are each under our own patch of starry heaven today, and the LORD is whispering of His promised land in our hearts – a land purchased by Jesus on the cross, a land of blessing that goes on forever. The Spirit of God will write that on our hearts if we let Him. He will give us the faith to believe if we'll ask Him. Is today that day when we open our hearts to God's promised land?

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In this episode we hop into our "time dune buggies" and head back to Jordan from Shechem near the Soleb Temple where we find the Deir Alla Inscriptions. Why is this site so important? Because it gives us a different meaning for "Shaddai" or "Shadday" as found in the Bible being paired with El (El Shaddai). In this 7th century inscription Shadday is a goddess who oversees the Sadayin Deities who were in charge of curses. So hop on and lets go!

Northwest Bible Church – Feb. 9, 2025 – Joshua – Alan Conner Joshua 20 Cities of Refuge Intro A. THE PURPOSE AND TERMS OF THE CITIES OF REFUGE (Joshua 20:1-6). 1. The LORD gives instructions for the cities of refuge (Joshua 20:1-3).    2. Procedure (Joshua 20:4-6): a. Flee to a city of refuge.   b. Stand at the entrance of the gate and state his case before the elders. c. If reasonable, he will be taken in to dwell among them until a trial. d. He shall stand trial. Deut. 19:12; Numb. 35:12, 25.     3. Duration (Joshua 20:6). a. If found guilty. b. If found innocent. 4. Examples:  Numb. 35:22=23; Deut. 19:5-6. B.  6 CITIES OF REFUGE (Joshua 20:7-8). 1. Kedesh, Shechem, Kiriath arba (Hebron) on west of Jordan (Joshua 20:7).    2. Beser, Ramoth, Golan on the east side of Jordan (Joshua 20:8). C. WHO COULD MAKE USE OF THE CITIES OF REFUGE? 1. “All the sons of Israel and for the stranger who sojourns among them” (Joshua 20:9). 2. Why sojourners? LESSONS 1. The sacredness of human life.     2. The significance of the death of the high priest.    3. Christ our Refuge.   For Discussion:  Why did God establish cities of refuge?  Why is their location important?  How do we see God's justice and mercy in these cities?   How do the cities of refuge prefigure the work of Christ.  

In this Bible Story, Jacob’s daughter Dinah is taken advantage of and her brothers, Simeon and Levi, respond. They kill every man in the city, and pillaged all they had. Then Jacob flees back to Bethel and settles there with his family. This story is inspired by Genesis 34-35. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Genesis 34:11 from the King James Version.Episode 24: As Israel and his family were living in the land of Hamor, a prince of that land named Schechem raped Dinah, Israel’s daughter. However, instead of sending her away in secret, Schechem asks for his father to strike a deal so that he might have her as a wife. An agreement was made to give him Dinah for the price of Hamor, Schechem, and all the men in their city being circumcised. But Dinah’s brothers, Simeon and Levi, would not hear of it. Filled with rage, they attacked while the city's men were recovering, killing them all.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Psalm 108 English Standard VersionWith God We Shall Do ValiantlyA Song. A Psalm of David.108 My heart is steadfast, O God!    I will sing and make melody with all my being!2 Awake, O harp and lyre!    I will awake the dawn!3 I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples;    I will sing praises to you among the nations.4 For your steadfast love is great above the heavens;    your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.5 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens!    Let your glory be over all the earth!6 That your beloved ones may be delivered,    give salvation by your right hand and answer me!7 God has promised in his holiness:    “With exultation I will divide up Shechem    and portion out the Valley of Succoth.8 Gilead is mine; Manasseh is mine;    Ephraim is my helmet,    Judah my scepter.9 Moab is my washbasin;    upon Edom I cast my shoe;    over Philistia I shout in triumph.”10 Who will bring me to the fortified city?    Who will lead me to Edom?11 Have you not rejected us, O God?    You do not go out, O God, with our armies.12 Oh grant us help against the foe,    for vain is the salvation of man!13 With God we shall do valiantly;    it is he who will tread down our foes.English Standard Version (ESV)The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

35.1 God said to Jacob, “Arise, go up to Bethel and dwell there. Make an altar there to the God who appeared to you when you fled from your brother Esau.” 2 So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, “Put away the foreign gods that are among you and purify yourselves and change your garments. 3 Then let us arise and go up to Bethel, so that I may make there an altar to the God who answers me in the day of my distress and has been with me wherever I have gone.” 4 So they gave to Jacob all the foreign gods that they had, and the rings that were in their ears. Jacob hid them under the terebinth tree that was near Shechem. 5 And as they journeyed, a terror from God fell upon the cities that were around them, so that they did not pursue the sons of Jacob. 6 And Jacob came to Luz (that is, Bethel), which is in the land of Canaan, he and all the people who were with him, 7 and there he built an altar and called the place El-bethel, because there God had revealed himself to him when he fled from his brother. 8 And Deborah, Rebekah's nurse, died, and she was buried under an oak below Bethel. So he called its name Allon-bacuth. 9 God appeared to Jacob again, when he came from Paddan-aram, and blessed him. 10 And God said to him, “Your name is Jacob; no longer shall your name be called Jacob, but Israel shall be your name.” So he called his name Israel. 11 And God said to him, “I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply. A nation and a company of nations shall come from you, and kings shall come from your own body. 12 The land that I gave to Abraham and Isaac I will give to you, and I will give the land to your offspring after you.” 13 Then God went up from him in the place where he had spoken with him. 14 And Jacob set up a pillar in the place where he had spoken with him, a pillar of stone. He poured out a drink offering on it and poured oil on it. 15 So Jacob called the name of the place where God had spoken with him Bethel.

In this episode, I take you to the cultic site of Biblical Shechem where Abraham made his covenant with his Lord, Baal Berith. We will make a few discoveries that might just explain the condemnation of foreign gods, the Asherah and Baal.

34.1 Now Dinah the daughter of Leah, whom she had borne to Jacob, went out to see the women of the land. 2 And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the land, saw her, he seized her and lay with her and humiliated her. 3 And his soul was drawn to Dinah the daughter of Jacob. He loved the young woman and spoke tenderly to her. 4 So Shechem spoke to his father Hamor, saying, “Get me this girl for my wife.” 5 Now Jacob heard that he had defiled his daughter Dinah. But his sons were with his livestock in the field, so Jacob held his peace until they came. 6 And Hamor the father of Shechem went out to Jacob to speak with him. 7 The sons of Jacob had come in from the field as soon as they heard of it, and the men were indignant and very angry, because he had done an outrageous thing in Israel by lying with Jacob's daughter, for such a thing must not be done. 8 But Hamor spoke with them, saying, “The soul of my son Shechem longs for your daughter. Please give her to him to be his wife. 9 Make marriages with us. Give your daughters to us, and take our daughters for yourselves. 10 You shall dwell with us, and the land shall be open to you. Dwell and trade in it, and get property in it.” 11 Shechem also said to her father and to her brothers, “Let me find favor in your eyes, and whatever you say to me I will give. 12 Ask me for as great a bride-price and gift as you will, and I will give whatever you say to me. Only give me the young woman to be my wife.” 13 The sons of Jacob answered Shechem and his father Hamor deceitfully, because he had defiled their sister Dinah. 14 They said to them, “We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one who is uncircumcised, for that would be a disgrace to us. 15 Only on this condition will we agree with you—that you will become as we are by every male among you being circumcised. 16 Then we will give our daughters to you, and we will take your daughters to ourselves, and we will dwell with you and become one people. 17 But if you will not listen to us and be circumcised, then we will take our daughter, and we will be gone.” 18 Their words pleased Hamor and Hamor's son Shechem. 19 And the young man did not delay to do the thing, because he delighted in Jacob's daughter. Now he was the most honored of all his father's house. 20 So Hamor and his son Shechem came to the gate of their city and spoke to the men of their city, saying, 21 “These men are at peace with us; let them dwell in the land and trade in it, for behold, the land is large enough for them. Let us take their daughters as wives, and let us give them our daughters. 22 Only on this condition will the men agree to dwell with us to become one people—when every male among us is circumcised as they are circumcised. 23 Will not their livestock, their property and all their beasts be ours? Only let us agree with them, and they will dwell with us.” 24 And all who went out of the gate of his city listened to Hamor and his son Shechem, and every male was circumcised, all who went out of the gate of his city. 25 On the third day, when they were sore, two of the sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brothers, took their swords and came against the city while it felt secure and killed all the males. 26 They killed Hamor and his son Shechem with the sword and took Dinah out of Shechem's house and went away. 27 The sons of Jacob came upon the slain and plundered the city, because they had defiled their sister. 28 They took their flocks and their herds, their donkeys, and whatever was in the city and in the field. 29 All their wealth, all their little ones and their wives, all that was in the houses, they captured and plundered. 30 Then Jacob said to Simeon and Levi, “You have brought trouble on me by making me stink to the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites and the Perizzites. My numbers are few, and if they gather themselves against me and attack me, I shall be destroyed, both I and my household.” 31 But they said, “Should he..

Genesis 49 is one of those Key Chapters that we might normally overlook; and yet this passage actually gives us several critical prophecies regarding the future of Israel, the nature of the kingdom and her King. So rather than being a chapter we should overlook, instead, this is one that we should dive into. Join us!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: Genesis 49 1.    The study opens with how the book of Genesis is ultimately about the “genesis” of this new nation, dedicated to God. As we close out our study in the book of Genesis, we have seen the Lord use very imperfect people. What does this show us about how God can use imperfect people today? How has God used you, even in your imperfections, to further His kingdom? 2.    In verse 2, the Lord refers to Jacob as “Israel.” The name “Israel” means “contends/struggles with God.” God gave Jacob this name back in Genesis 32. What is the significance of Jacob referring to himself as “Israel” in this passage? 3.    Although Reuben had moments of strength and dignity, he also had episodes of serious weakness. According to the study, what were some long-term consequences of his moral failures? Along those lines, according to 1st Chronicles 5:1, who was Reuben's birthright given to? Why?  4.    Simeon and Levi also suffered long-term consequences for their sins committed back in Genesis 34 when they defended their sister's honor by killing all the men of Shechem. Later on, what were the land allocations for the tribes of Simeon and Levi? What did this suggest as to why their sin would cause them to lose their land promise among the sons of Israel? 5.    Why was it so surprising that Judah would receive such a prophecy in Genesis 49:8-12? How was this prophecy later fulfilled in passages such as Judges 1:2 and later in the kings, and ultimately in the life of Jesus? 6.    The prophecy about Judah in Genesis 49:8-12 is the last of the three great prophecies of the Messiah. The other two are Genesis 3:15 and 22:18. What did these other prophecies foretell about the Messiah?  7.    The study concluded by saying that these prophecies in Genesis 49 form a blueprint for the nation of Israel. From reading these prophecies, how would you characterize what this nation was to look like?  8.    The nation prophesied in this passage would one day come to an earthly end and give way to the nation of the Messiah. In what ways will the Messianic kingdom be different from the kingdom that Jacob outlines here?  9.    Genesis 49 is a concluding chapter to the Book of Genesis. In many ways, it is the climax and Genesis 50 is like an epilogue. In your own words, how would describe the events that have led from Genesis 1 to Genesis 49? Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Genesis 34 records an incident which is extremely instructive for us. Dinah, Jacob's daughter, went out to see the daughters of the land; the result of which is she is defiled by a Hivite, named Shechem. She is trapped into a marriage out of covenant with the LORD. Her brothers deceive the Hivites and insist that every male Hivite in the town be circumcised, as a condition for allowing the marriage to occur. Impressed by the wealth of Jacob's family the Hivites readily accepted the terms, as like all the Canaanites they were covetous. Then Simeon and Levi slay all the males, when they are sore from their circumcision. The sons take all the Hivite women as plunder for themselves; together with the material wealth of the Hivites. Jacob is so frightened by the treachery of his sons (and in chapter 49 cursed both Simeon and Levi – verses 5-7 read and contemplate) and is fearful that the entire Canaanite community would be so enraged by the event that they would avenge the evil by destroying Jacob's entire family. Chapter 35 tells of the Almighty's charge to Jacob to return to Bethel, to build an altar; and to begin afresh. It was Jacob's Sovereign's assurance that as He is the God of Bethel the promise of protection will never fail. Jacob took his journey in renewed faith. When we fail we must never become so discouraged that we in despair abandon God. We can be certain that no matter how bad things may seem our Creator will never abandon His children (slowly read aloud Hebrews 13 verses 4 and 5. Carefully contemplate the lesson). Jacob's GOD put the Canaanites in dread of Jacob; so that they avoided him lest they share the fate of the Hivites. There was a condition put on God's support for Jacob – put away from among you all the foreign gods. The same terms apply to us when we seek our LORD after sinning – utterly forsake the sin in humble penitence (1 John 1verses 8-10). The altar was built at the site of Jacob's dream; and the town of Luz (meaning “ruination”) finally became Bethel (the house of God). Verse 8 tells of the death of Rebekah's aged wet nurse, who was buried beneath the oak; that became named (the oak of weeping – Allon-Bacuth). The old ways were over. And so the Almighty reappeared to Jacob, confirming the name change to Israel and reiterating the promise (verses 9-12). Jacob's response is to set up, as a pillar the stone – to anoint, or Christ it, by pouring oil over it – offer a drink offering and rename the site Bethel. Verses 16-29 records the deaths of – firstly Rachel; and lastly Isaac; as well as their burials. Isaac was buried by both his sons, Esau and Jacob and rests with the family of faith in the cave of Machpelah (meaning “folded”). All those resting there will rise again and inherit the Promised Land, when Christ returns to the earth. Rachel, on the other hand, is wrapped in mystery. She had heavy travail and died giving birth to her second son. In desperation she named him Son of my sorrows (Ben-oni). She had not quite reached Bethlehem-Ephratah (meaning “the house of bread and fruitfulness” – how ironic for the barren wife, who died in childbirth). Jacob renamed his son Benjamin (“the son of the right hand”). As well as actually happening the event was a parable about Jesus Christ, who in his suffering for sins (not his own) and dying was “a man of sorrows” (Isaiah 53 verses 3-5). But having suffered his Father elevated him to His own right hand (Acts 2verses 22-36 read and consider). And Rachel's barrenness followed by fruitfulness was also symbolic of a restored Israel (Isaiah 54:1-8 consider). If we were in doubt as to Rachel's divine esteem we should read Ruth 4 verses 11-12. She too will receive the loving kindness of her God. cont... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-january-20th-genesis-34-35-psalm-37-matthew-22/

Thoughts on the readings for January 19th (Genesis 32, 33; Psalm 36; Matthew 21). Jacob in Genesis 32 journeyed to Bethel. As he did so he noticed that journeying alongside Jacob's was a troop of angels. Jacob named the place Mahanaim (meaning “two companies”). It was a reassurance to Jacob that the God of Bethel was always with him, as He promised in Genesis 28. Jacob next hears the disturbing news that Esau, with 400 armed men, is coming to meet him. Jacob becomes gripped with fear as his mind went back to the hostility with which they had parted. Jacob makes plans for his family's protection and an attempt to placate his brother, Esau, with great material gifts. After doing all he could Jacob stayed behind to humbly beseech help from his God. And in response the God (El – strength) of Bethel sends his angel who wrestled all night with Jacob. The Almighty withheld the angel's might, so that neither Jacob nor the angel were able to prevail. At some stage of the contest Jacob realised that he was contending with an angel. At this point Jacob refused to release the angel until he was granted a blessing. The angel changed Jacob's name to Israel (“a prince with God”) and smote the hollow of Jacob's thigh, leaving him with a permanent limp; and a reminder that in order to prevail (with God and men) he must always trust that the LORD can do, when we cannot. At sunrise the angel let Jacob go. It was too late for Jacob to catch up with his family; whose fate was in the hand of the Almighty. Hosea tells us that it was here in Bethel that Jacob found God at last; and is so able to teach us. Slowly read aloud Hosea 12 verse 2-6 and pause and ponder. Note also that when Israel brought their tithes and first fruits to the priest they were to say aloud the words of Deuteronomy 26 verse 5. In chapter 33 the twin brothers meet. Jacob found that the expected hostility was not there. Jacob's Sovereign had preserved him and fulfilled the promise of chapter 28. Jacob tried to give his gifts to Esau, who didn't want them. Esau asks Jacob to come with him to Petra. Jacob insists that his brother go ahead and they will follow at a slower pace. Jacob never made that journey but went to Succoth (meaning “booths”). They constructed booths and dwelt there. Jacob then came to Shechem, where he purchased the land that his grandfather Abraham had purchased long ago. Jacob built an altar in thanksgiving to his Sovereign; and named that altar – God the God of Israel. Psalm 36 is from the pen of David. The choirmaster is told to celebrate the steadfast loving kindness of Yahweh. Verse 1 tells us why the wicked act the way that they do – “there is no fear of God before their eyes” (cp Romans 3 verse18, which is the 7th consecutive quote from the Old Testament showing the perversity of human nature). Verses 2-4 of Psalm 36 speak of the arrogance and calculated plotting of the wicked against the upright. From verses 5-10 David speaks of his confidence in Yahweh's steadfast love and righteousness. Those who have received it know of the benefits that come to those who faithfully trust in the LORD. Meditate the power of verse 9 – “with you (God) is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light” (ESV). The Father alone is eternal and not created. All life has come from Him. Verse 10 is a plea for the Creator to maintain that love for His children. Verses 11-12 is a call for the Omnipotent to silence once and for all time the arrogant. Cont... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-january-19th-genesis-32-33-psalm-36-matthew-21/

In Bereishis 48:22, Yaakov gave Yosef one “Shechem” over his brothers. Rashi has two pshatim in Shechem: (1) the city Shechem; (2) a portion. This episode analyzes how each of these pshatim learn this passuk.

Acts 7:1-16 And the high priest said, “Are these things so?” 2 And Stephen said: “Brothers and fathers, hear me. The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran, 3 and said to him, ‘Go out from your land and from your kindred and go into the land that I will show you.' 4 Then he went out from the land of the Chaldeans and lived in Haran. And after his father died, God removed him from there into this land in which you are now living. 5 Yet He gave him no inheritance in it, not even a foot's length, but promised to give it to him as a possession and to his offspring after him, though he had no child. 6 And God spoke to this effect—that his offspring would be sojourners in a land belonging to others, who would enslave them and afflict them four hundred years. 7 ‘But I will judge the nation that they serve,' said God, ‘and after that they shall come out and worship Me in this place.' 8And He gave him the covenant of circumcision. And so Abraham became the father of Isaac, and circumcised him on the eighth day, and Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob of the twelve patriarchs. 9 “And the patriarchs, jealous of Joseph, sold him into Egypt; but God was with him 10 and rescued him out of all his afflictions and gave him favor and wisdom before Pharaoh, king of Egypt, who made him ruler over Egypt and over all his household. 11 Now there came a famine throughout all Egypt and Canaan, and great affliction, and our fathers could find no food. 12 But when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent out our fathers on their first visit. 13 And on the second visit Joseph made himself known to his brothers, and Joseph's family became known to Pharaoh. 14 And Joseph sent and summoned Jacob his father and all his kindred, seventy-five persons in all. 15 And Jacob went down into Egypt, and he died, he and our fathers, 16 and they were carried back to Shechem and laid in the tomb that Abraham had bought for a sum of silver from the sons of Hamor in Shechem.   Key Words: Abraham, Promise, Inheritance, Possession, Affliction, Rescue Keystone Verse: Yet God gave Abraham no inheritance in the land, not even a foot's length, but promised to give it to him as a possession and to his offspring after him, though he had no child. (Acts 7:5)   Download Bulletin

Support Common Prayer Daily @ PatreonVisit our Website for more www.commonprayerdaily.com_______________Opening Words:The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth.John 1:14 Confession:Let us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God. Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen. Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen. The InvitatoryLord, open our lips.And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. Alleluia. Jubilate (Psalm 100)Alleluia. To us a child is born: O come, let us adore him. Alleluia.Be joyful in the Lord, all you lands; *serve the Lord with gladnessand come before his presence with a song.Know this: The Lord himself is God; *he himself has made us, and we are his;we are his people and the sheep of his pasture.Enter his gates with thanksgiving;go into his courts with praise; *give thanks to him and call upon his Name.For the Lord is good;his mercy is everlasting; *and his faithfulness endures from age to age.Alleluia. To us a child is born: O come, let us adore him. Alleluia. The PsalterPsalm 34I will bless the Lord at all times; *his praise shall ever be in my mouth.2I will glory in the Lord; *let the humble hear and rejoice.3Proclaim with me the greatness of the Lord; *let us exalt his Name together.4I sought the Lord, and he answered me *and delivered me out of all my terror.5Look upon him and be radiant, *and let not your faces be ashamed.6I called in my affliction and the Lord heard me *and saved me from all my troubles.7The angel of the Lord encompasses those who fear him, *and he will deliver them.8Taste and see that the Lord is good; *happy are they who trust in him!9Fear the Lord, you that are his saints, *for those who fear him lack nothing.10The young lions lack and suffer hunger, *but those who seek the Lord lack nothing that is good.11Come, children, and listen to me; *I will teach you the fear of the Lord.12Who among you loves life *and desires long life to enjoy prosperity?13Keep your tongue from evil-speaking *and your lips from lying words.14Turn from evil and do good; *seek peace and pursue it.15The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, *and his ears are open to their cry.16The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, *to root out the remembrance of them from the earth.17The righteous cry, and the Lord hears them *and delivers them from all their troubles.18The Lord is near to the brokenhearted *and will save those whose spirits are crushed.19Many are the troubles of the righteous, *but the Lord will deliver him out of them all.20He will keep safe all his bones; *not one of them shall be broken.21Evil shall slay the wicked, *and those who hate the righteous will be punished.22The Lord ransoms the life of his servants, *and none will be punished who trust in him. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. LessonsGen. 12:1-7A Reading from the Book of Genesis.Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”  So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people that they had acquired in Haran, and they set out to go to the land of Canaan. When they came to the land of Canaan, Abram passed through the land to the place at Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So he built there an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him. The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Te Deum laudamusYou are God: we praise you;You are the Lord: we acclaim you;You are the eternal Father:All creation worships you.To you all angels, all the powers of heaven, Cherubim and Seraphim, sing in endless praise:Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,heaven and earth are full of your glory.The glorious company of apostles praise you.The noble fellowship of prophets praise you.The white-robed army of martyrs praise you. Throughout the world the holy Church acclaims you;Father, of majesty unbounded,your true and only Son, worthy of all worship, and the Holy Spirit, advocate and guide.You, Christ, are the king of glory, the eternal Son of the Father.When you became man to set us free you did not shun the Virgin's womb. You overcame the sting of deathand opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers. You are seated at God's right hand in glory.We believe that you will come and be our judge.Come then, Lord, and help your people, bought with the price of your own blood, and bring us with your saintsto glory everlasting. Heb. 11:1-12A Reading from the Book of Hebrews.Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.  By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.  By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God. By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as many as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore.The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. John 6:35-42,48-51A Reading from the Gospel According to John.Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”  So the Jews grumbled about him, because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” They said, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven'?”I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.”The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Benedictus Dominus DeusBlessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; * he has come to his people and set them free.He has raised up for us a mighty savior, * born of the house of his servant David.Through his holy prophets he promised of old, that he would save us from our enemies, * from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our fathers * and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham, * to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, * holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, * for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation * by the forgiveness of their sins.In the tender compassion of our God * the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, * and to guide our feet into the way of peace.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. The Apostles CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. The PrayersThe Lord be with you.And also with you.Let us pray.Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. Suffrages AV. Show us your mercy, O Lord;R. And grant us your salvation.V. Clothe your ministers with righteousness; R. Let your people sing with joy.V. Give peace, O Lord, in all the world;R. For only in you can we live in safety. V. Lord, keep this nation under your care;R. And guide us in the way of justice and truth.V. Let your way be known upon earth;R. Your saving health among all nations.V. Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;R. Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.V. Create in us clean hearts, O God;R. And sustain us with your Holy Spirit.   The CollectsCollect of the DayAlmighty God, you have poured upon us the new light of your incarnate Word: Grant that this light, enkindled in our hearts, may shine forth in our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. Daily Collects:A Collect for PeaceO God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Collect for GraceO Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting God, you have brought us safely to the beginning of this day: Defend us by your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin nor run into any danger; and that, guided by your Spirit, we may do what is righteous in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Take a moment of silence at this time to reflect and pray for others. Collect of Saint BasilO Christ God, Who art worshipped and glorified at every place and time; Who art long-suffering, most merciful and compassionate; Who lovest the righteous and art merciful to sinners; Who callest all to salvation with the promise of good things to come: receive, Lord, the prayers we now offer, and direct our lives in the way of Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls, cleanse our bodies, correct our thoughts, purify our minds and deliver us from all affliction, evil and illness. Surround us with Thy holy angels, that guarded and instructed by their forces, we may reach unity of faith and the understanding of Thine unapproachable glory: for blessed art Thou unto ages of ages. Amen. A Prayer of St. John ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time, with one accord to make our common supplications to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will grant their requests: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen. DismissalLet us bless the LordThanks be to God! The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen

The sefer Vaveh Amudim brings a story that a man named Yaakov told him, which took place when he was younger. Yaakov said his father once asked him to take out the garbage and he replied, "Why are you asking me? I did it last time. There are many other capable people in this house who could do it." Yaakov's grandfather was in the room at the time and was very disturbed by Yaakov's response. He gathered Yaakov and his siblings together to teach them a life lesson. He opened a Chumash to this week's Parasha, Vayeshev, and he showed them the pasuk in which Yaakov Avinu told Yosef to go check up and see how his brothers were doing in Shechem. Yosef knew that his brothers had a certain hatred towards him, and it was extremely dangerous for him to go, yet he told his father הנני – I'm ready to go right now. Yosef could have given his father many excuses why he shouldn't listen, but he didn't. His father told him to do something and Yosef was going to listen. (As a side note, the Mefarshim do ask how Yosef went, knowing how dangerous it was, in light of the command ונשמרתם מאד לנפשותיכם – to protect our lives as best we can. The Chida writes in his sefer Rosh David in parsahat Toldot that although it is not forbidden for a child to respectfully refuse a parent's request if the request involves danger, however if the child wants to be strict and listen to his parents no matter what, he has the right to do so. He brings a proof how Yosef knew that, and one can see more about it in Sefer Chassidim , siman 341.) The grandfather then told them a personal story that happened to him when he was younger. He rolled up his sleeve and showed them the numbers that were tattooed on his arm by the Nazis, yimach shimam . He said, "My precious grandchildren, this number on my arm was determined for me to have by Hashem from the six days of Creation. Hashem wanted me to go through the seven levels of Gehenom in this world, for the best reasons, reasons which I cannot fathom. When the Nazis came to our town, they instructed all of the Jews to gather at the train station. We were only allowed to bring a few essentials with us. When we arrived there, they were separating the men from the women and children. I can still hear the bitter crying and screaming that was going on at that time. They put me, my brother and my mother on one train and my father on the other. Right before our train was getting ready to pull away, my mother saw that she had my father's tefillin with her. Immediately, she said to me, 'Berel, what is Daddy going to do without his tefillin ? He has to have them. Quickly, bring them to him on the other train.' It was very scary outside. The Nazis were strolling the area with vicious dogs. But I didn't think twice about it, my mother told me to go and so I went. I managed to get on to my father's train and, the moment I did, the train closed its doors and pulled away. My father and I were taken to a labor camp. I found out later, the other train was taken straight to the gas chambers. I am only alive today because I was ready to listen to my mother. "I want you to take this as a life lesson. When your parents ask you to do something, it's a golden opportunity. You will be fulfilling a mitzvat aseh from the Torah. Don't argue with them. Just say, הנני – I'm here and ready." Shabbat Shalom.

What exactly is the translation of the  חִתַּת אֱלֹ-ים after the massacre in Shechem?