Podcasts about song of solomon

Song of Solomon

Song of Solomon

Song of Solomon - Admiration by the Bridegroom, The Union of Love, The Lovers SpeakProverbs - The Usefulness of Proverbs, The Enticement of Sinners, Wisdom Warns, The Pursuit of Wisdom Brings SecurityJames - Things to Avoid

Song of Solomon - The Bride's Admiration, The Bride'sTroubled Dream, Solomon's Wedding Day,  Solomon'sLove Expressed, The Torment of Separation, Mutual Delight in Each OtherJames - The Tongue Is a Fire, Wisdom from Above

This week William and Scott do a dramatic reading and analysis of the Old Testament book "The Song of Solomon." In addition to the base level narrative presented in the scripture we also examine the esoteric symbolism inherent in the text, connecting many of the verses to Christian and Jewish mysticism and the kaballah.Don't forget to join our Telegram channel at T.me/historyhomos and to join our group chat at T.me/historyhomoschatFor programming updates and news follow us across social media @historyhomospod and follow Scott @Scottlizardabrams and Patrick @cantgetfooledagainradio OR subscribe to our telegram channel t.me/historyhomosThe video version of the show is available on Substack, Rokfin, bitchute, odysee and RumbleFor weekly premium episodes or to contribute to the show subscribe to our channel at www.historyhomospod.substack.comYou can donate to the show directly at paypal.me/historyhomosTo order a History Homos T shirt (and recieve a free sticker) please send your shirt size and address to Historyhomos@gmail.com and please address all questions, comments and concerns there as well.Later homo

1 Kings - Solomon's Officials; Solomon's Power, Wealth, and Wisdom.2 Chronicles - Solomon Worships at Gibeon, Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom, Solomon's Wealth.Psalm - The Reign of the Righteous King.Song of Solomon - The Young Shulammite Bride and Jerusalem's Daughters.James - The Sin of Partiality, Faith and Works.

"What is the point of Song of Solomon? In what ways does Song of Solomon inspire spouses to prioritize faithfulness in marriage? Links: https://passionequip.com/collections/the-song-of-songs"

The best source of wisdom is the mind of God revealed in His Word. Today, R.C. Sproul explores how three of the Bible's Wisdom Books train God's people to live meaningfully, love beautifully, and suffer faithfully in this world. Request What Is Biblical Wisdom?, the title by R.C. Sproul, plus lifetime digital access to his Wisdom teaching series, with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4163/donate   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the ebook edition of What Is Biblical Wisdom? and digital access to the Wisdom series with your gift of any amount: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global    Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What can the intimate poetry of Song of Solomon 4-6 teach us about devotion in our own marriages and how to nurture our marriages to honor Christ? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Aaron and Robin Dutton about Song of Solomon 4-6 and how it can instruct our marriages. Check out Aaron and Robin's former episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-219-2-kings-23/id1600151923?i=1000634245664https://www.watermark.org/ministries/re-engage

How should we read Song of Solomon in light of Christ? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Garrett Wikle, Resident Theologian at Watermark, and help us understand how Song of Solomon, while a romantic poem, also  displays the love Christ has for his Church. Additional references: Genesis 3; Isaiah 62:4-5 Revelation 19; Check out Song of Solomon - Attraction by Passion City Church: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZM4B-AUA8M8Check out Dominion and Dynasty  by Stephen Dempster: https://a.co/d/cmScARi

Episode 191: There are beautiful passages in the Hebrew writings. Some of those passages can be found in the Song of Solomon. In this podcast we examine the Song of Solomon and the relationship the Most-High has with the Yisrael.

How this book made it into the Bible is a mystery.Why it rarely gets a outing in church services us not surprising.;The Song of Songs is steamy stuff, so much so we've had to put an 'explicit content' warning on this episode.Some see the book as a metaphor for God's love for his church, others see a gentleman delighting in the aromatic fruits of a lady's garden as a wholly different kind of metaphor.EnjoyWritten and produced by Chas BayfieldMusic by Michael Auld and Jon Hawkins MusicCover art by Lisa GoffSend any comments or feedback to contact@whollybuyable.com

This past Sunday, Pastor Bob wrapped up our “Art of Living Well” series with a powerful message from Song of Solomon chapters 7 and 8. It was a thoughtful look at love, intimacy, and our relationship with God. Pastor Bob shared how his own deep dive into this poetic book has shaped his walk with the Lord. He encouraged us to do the same, pick a book of the Bible, grab a good commentary, and let God speak through it. He also explored the beautiful connection between our spiritual and physical selves, reminding us that true intimacy, whether with God or each other, goes far beyond surface desires. And finally, we were invited to slow down and take in the beauty of God's creation as a reflection of His goodness and creativity.

Pastor Bob took us through chapters 3-5 of Song of Solomon this week, exploring God's design for love and marriage. He reminded us that marriage is a sacred covenant reflecting God's faithful love and emphasized the importance of soul-level connection beyond just physical attraction.The big takeaway? Following God's blueprint for relationships leads to a flourishing life, even through life's imperfections. An encouraging reminder that God's ways really are best.

In this episode of Pray the Word on Song of Solomon 8:7, David Platt encourages us to steward God's gift of love for His glory and our good.Explore more content from Radical.

In this episode of Pray the Word on Song of Solomon 2:4, David Platt prays for marriages to reflect God's love for His people.Explore more content from Radical.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 1 Kings 13-14; 2 Chronicles 12; Philippians 3 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! On this episode for June 11th, 2025, join your host Hunter as we continue our journey through the Scriptures together. Today, we're exploring the poetic beauty of Song of Solomon, chapters 5 through 8, and diving into the opening words of Paul's letter to the Philippians. As we read, Hunter invites us to encounter Christ—the living Word—who meets us in the midst of our everyday struggles, joys, and questions. Through the passionate dialogue of Song of Solomon and the encouraging message of Philippians Chapter 1, we're reminded of God's enduring love, the transformative power of His presence, and the promise that He is continually at work in our lives. After the readings, Hunter shares inspiring reflections on God meeting us where we are, offering hope and strength, and leads us through a time of heartfelt prayer. Whether you're new to the podcast or a daily listener, you'll find encouragement and connection as we let the Bible point the way to Jesus together. Grab your Bible, settle in, and let's walk this journey of faith side by side. You are loved—no doubt about it! TODAY'S DEVOTION: TODAY'S DEVOTION: God meets us in the midst of our struggle. Life brings with it many trials, sufferings, and disappointments, but the good news is that God is not distant from us in those places—he is right here, present, working within us even now. Paul reminds us in Philippians that “we are in this struggle together.” He writes of his own hardships, his imprisonment, and the difficulties that have come his way, not as marks of defeat, but as evidence that God is at work in all things. God is not done with us—he who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. That's the hope we're given: in the very midst of the chaos and trouble, God is shaping us, completing us, and drawing us close to him. Paul's confidence is that God's presence is active, transforming us from the inside out. Christ in us—the hope and the glory—brings change to our character and fills us with the fruit of salvation. It is here, in our ordinary pains and struggles, that God meets us, not just observing from afar, but walking alongside us and within us. This reality fills Paul with joy, and can fill us with the same joy, no matter what we face. So let us open ourselves to this abiding presence. Allow God's Spirit to meet you right where you are. Let his joy be your strength. Remember, even in the midst of it all, you are not alone—God is in you, working all things toward his good purpose. Let that truth produce joy and hope in you, and give thanks that you are loved and never abandoned by the One who is always with you. That's my prayer for myself. That's my prayer for my family, for my wife and my children, and that's my prayer for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Almighty and ever loving God, you have brought us to the light of a new morning. Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may walk this day in peace. Guard our steps from temptation, shield us from the weight of fear and shame, and lead us deeper into the joy of your presence through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. O Christ, light of the nations, Shine in every place where shadows dwell. Call the scattered home, heal the wounds of division and gather all people into the communion of your grace. May the knowledge of the Lord cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. Amen. And our Lord make my hands ready for mercy, make my eyes quick to see the hurting, my ears open to the cry of the lonely, and my feet swift to bring good news. Let me seek to bless, not to be noticed, to serve, not to be praised, to forgive, not to hold back. For in your way is life, in your mercy is healing, and in your love is the peace this world cannot give. 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 trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. 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. 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  

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Song of Solomon 5-8; Philippians 1 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! On this episode for June 11th, 2025, join your host Hunter as we continue our journey through the Scriptures together. Today, we're exploring the poetic beauty of Song of Solomon, chapters 5 through 8, and diving into the opening words of Paul's letter to the Philippians. As we read, Hunter invites us to encounter Christ—the living Word—who meets us in the midst of our everyday struggles, joys, and questions. Through the passionate dialogue of Song of Solomon and the encouraging message of Philippians Chapter 1, we're reminded of God's enduring love, the transformative power of His presence, and the promise that He is continually at work in our lives. After the readings, Hunter shares inspiring reflections on God meeting us where we are, offering hope and strength, and leads us through a time of heartfelt prayer. Whether you're new to the podcast or a daily listener, you'll find encouragement and connection as we let the Bible point the way to Jesus together. Grab your Bible, settle in, and let's walk this journey of faith side by side. You are loved—no doubt about it! TODAY'S DEVOTION: God meets us in the midst of our struggle. Life brings with it many trials, sufferings, and disappointments, but the good news is that God is not distant from us in those places—he is right here, present, working within us even now. Paul reminds us in Philippians that “we are in this struggle together.” He writes of his own hardships, his imprisonment, and the difficulties that have come his way, not as marks of defeat, but as evidence that God is at work in all things. God is not done with us—he who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. That's the hope we're given: in the very midst of the chaos and trouble, God is shaping us, completing us, and drawing us close to him. Paul's confidence is that God's presence is active, transforming us from the inside out. Christ in us—the hope and the glory—brings change to our character and fills us with the fruit of salvation. It is here, in our ordinary pains and struggles, that God meets us, not just observing from afar, but walking alongside us and within us. This reality fills Paul with joy, and can fill us with the same joy, no matter what we face. So let us open ourselves to this abiding presence. Allow God's Spirit to meet you right where you are. Let his joy be your strength. Remember, even in the midst of it all, you are not alone—God is in you, working all things toward his good purpose. Let that truth produce joy and hope in you, and give thanks that you are loved and never abandoned by the One who is always with you. That's my prayer for myself. That's my prayer for my family, for my wife and my children, and that's my prayer for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Almighty and ever loving God, you have brought us to the light of a new morning. Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may walk this day in peace. Guard our steps from temptation, shield us from the weight of fear and shame, and lead us deeper into the joy of your presence through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. O Christ, light of the nations, Shine in every place where shadows dwell. Call the scattered home, heal the wounds of division and gather all people into the communion of your grace. May the knowledge of the Lord cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. Amen. And our Lord make my hands ready for mercy, make my eyes quick to see the hurting, my ears open to the cry of the lonely, and my feet swift to bring good news. Let me seek to bless, not to be noticed, to serve, not to be praised, to forgive, not to hold back. For in your way is life, in your mercy is healing, and in your love is the peace this world cannot give. 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 trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. 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. 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  

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Song of Solomon 1-4; Ephesians 6 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode, host Hunter invites us to journey together through the Scriptures on this 10th day of June. We'll explore the intimate poetry of Song of Solomon, chapters 1 through 4, soaking in rich imagery about love and longing, before turning to Ephesians chapter 6 for Paul's famous exhortation to put on the “armor of God.” As we read, Hunter encourages us to recognize the deep love and grace God pours out on us, reminding us that true strength comes from being loved by God. The episode closes with a time of reflective prayer, asking for God's guidance, protection, and mercy as we walk into a new day, and finishes with the comfort that God is always with us—our Emmanuel. Whether you're starting your day or looking for a moment of peace, this episode is an invitation to be strengthened, encouraged, and reminded that you are deeply loved. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Be strong. Be loved. The strength that you need to resist the enemy's fiery attacks comes from God. It's not from us, after all. The armor that He bequeaths to us—the helmet, the shield, the shoes, the sword, the breastplate—all of it is a gift from a loving God. So put on that loving armor and be strong. Paul tells us to be strong, but listen carefully to his final words: be loved. Peace be with you, dear brothers and sisters, and may God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you love with faithfulness. May God's grace be eternally upon all who love our Lord Jesus Christ. So how are we to be strong? We do that by being loved. By putting on the loving armor of our Lord, and resting in the eternal grace and embrace that is ours in Christ. God's grace has been eternally poured out on us. Yes, put on the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of God's righteousness, the shoes of the gospel, the shield of faith, and the sword of the Spirit. These are loving gifts from a loving God, meant to guard us and equip us for whatever battles may come. You can be strong because you have been loved. Know this well, and let its truth sink deep into your heart so that you can draw strength from Him. That's a prayer I have for my own soul, for my family—my wife, my daughters, my son. And that's a prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Almighty and ever loving God, you have brought us to the light of a new morning. Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may walk this day in peace. Guard our steps from temptation, shield us from the weight of fear and shame, and lead us deeper into the joy of Your presence through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. O Christ, light of the nations, shine in every place where shadows dwell. Call the scattered home, heal the wounds of division and gather all people into the communion of your grace. May the knowledge of the Lord cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. Amen. And our Lord. Make my hands ready for mercy. Make my eyes quick to see the hurting, my ears open to the cry of the lonely, and my feet swift to bring good news. Let me seek to bless, not to be noticed, to serve, not to be praised, to forgive, not to hold back. For in your way is life, in your mercy is healing. And in your love is the peace this world cannot give. 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 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. 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  

FROM TODAY'S RECAP: - Video: Song of Songs Overview - Video: Proverbs Overview - Join the RECAPtains! - TBR Bookshelf Graphics - Finishers Page Note: We provide links to specific resources; this is not an endorsement of the entire website, author, organization, etc. Their views may not represent our own. SHOW NOTES: - Follow The Bible Recap: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube - Follow Tara-Leigh Cobble: Instagram - Read/listen on the Bible App or Dwell App - Learn more at our Start Page - Become a RECAPtain - Shop the TBR Store - Credits PARTNER MINISTRIES: D-Group International Israelux The God Shot TLC Writing & Speaking DISCLAIMER: The Bible Recap, Tara-Leigh Cobble, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

Reading by Pastor Teressa Wiley ---   Song of Solomon   https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Song%20of%20Solomon%201-8&version=ESV&interface=print

Day 153: Song of Solomon 1-8✝️Daily Scripture: Chronological Bible Readings (KJV)The complete King James Bible in a year, in chronological order. Read by C Levi Farrell.This podcast is free, and ad-free. To support its creator or purchase lossless audio, visit CLeviFarrell.comChapters:(00:00) Song of Solomon 1(02:06) Song of Solomon 2(04:13) Song of Solomon 3(05:56) Song of Solomon 4(08:17) Song of Solomon 5(10:43) Song of Solomon 6(12:30) Song of Solomon 7(14:14) Song of Solomon 8

In this message, TA unpacks God's vision for love and marriage as seen in Song of Solomon and identifies four key characteristics of biblical love in marriage. Using his own marriage as an example, TA illustrates how love has been both a feeling and a choice—a daily commitment rooted in vows. The message is a reminder that the Bible presents marriage as a reflection of a greater love: Christ's love for his bride, the Church.

In this message, TA unpacks God's vision for love and marriage as seen in Song of Solomon and identifies four key characteristics of biblical love in marriage. Using his own marriage as an example, TA illustrates how love has been both a feeling and a choice—a daily commitment rooted in vows. The message is a reminder that the Bible presents marriage as a reflection of a greater love: Christ's love for his bride, the Church.

Pastor Bob highlighted the beauty of God's creation and the depth of the Wisdom Books, especially the Song of Solomon, which offers insight into life's mysteries and God's grandeur. He emphasized the importance of living a fully integrated spiritual life, where faith informs every aspect, from work to relationships. The sermon also explored the divine gift of human intimacy, encouraging us to celebrate love within marriage and deepen our relationship with God.

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/SongofSolomon5:1–8:14 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/SongofSolomon1:1–4:16 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Title: Terrible as an Army with BannersPreacher: Jim HamiltonSeries: Song of SongsPassage: Song of Solomon 6:1–10

Marriage on the Rock is our new five-week series grounded in the truth that a cord of three strands is not quickly broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12).This series explores God's design for marriage and the practical ways couples can build their relationship on the unshakable foundation of Christ. Whether you're married, preparing for marriage, or supporting others in theirs, this series invites us to see how the gospel shapes enduring love, sacrificial service, and joyful covenant."Catch the Foxes " is a sermon based on Song of Solomon 2:10-17 preached by Associate Pastor Michael TooleyThis sermon was preached at Mission Church — a church in Morganton, North Carolina in the heart of Burke County.Join us in person on Sundays, 10 AM221 Herron St.Morganton NC, 28655

In this week's sermon from the "Song of Songs" series, Pastor Bob reflects on the themes of love and commitment, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one another, anticipating challenges in relationships, and reveling in the joys of love, all while honoring God's design for romantic intimacy.

Brother Nick shares a Mother's Day message about what mothers need at different seasons of their life. Brother Nick looks at various scriptures and the Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter seasons of a mother's life.

In Acts 25 tells us that, when Festus was determined to send Paul to Jerusalem, the Apostle had no alternative but to make his appeal to Caesar. After a short period of time Festus conducts another hearing of Paul's matters. Festus was again seeking the favour of the Jews and at this time Paul announces that he would exercise his right as a Roman Citizen to be judged by Caesar. We then hear of Herod Agrippa and his wife Bernice visiting Caesarea and at this time Festus requests that they hear Paul's case as Festus was struggling with the wording of the charge to be made against Paul. Festus explains to Agrippa that in his opinion there was no commuting or a capital crime, but simply matters concerning Jewish law. With great pomp and ceremony Agrippa, Bernice and all the other dignitaries enter the judgment hall. Festus seeks Agrippa's view about the nature of the charge to appear on the letter to be sent to Caesar. Chapter 26 records Paul's defence and his earnest appeal to Agrippa to embrace the Christian cause. Paul tells his audience of his fervour for the Jewish way and his concerted opposition to Christianity. But when he was confronted by the risen Lord Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus everything changed. He tells the audience of his great commission and then knowing king Agrippa to be a man who read the prophets he appeals to the king to adopt the Christian belief. Festus, being embarrassed by the situation, attempts to finish the hearing immediately by declaring Paul to be mad due to his great learning. Paul was not to be silenced so quickly and continues to ask Agrippa whether he believes the prophets. Paul states plainly I know you believe them king Agrippa. At this point king Agrippa and all the dignitaries rise and leave with the king stating Paul's innocence.

Is Song of Solomon an allegory of God's love for Israel and/or Christ's love for the Church? Is Song of Solomon truly a book about romantic and sexual love?

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'..

Acts 21 records Paul's journey to Jerusalem. The Apostle comforts and encourages many groups of disciples as he heads to Jerusalem. An old prophet, named Agabus, attempts to persuade Paul to go no further. Paul will not, like his lord, be dissuaded from going. The first thing Paul does on his arrival is to see James who advises him of the best course of action to be taken so as to avoid trouble. The Apostle is advised to complete his Nazarite vow and to cover the expenses of four other brothers who are completing their vows. James reiterates to Paul that the only binding requirements on Gentile believers are the keeping of the four matters agreed upon at the Jerusalem Conference. However, Paul cannot peacefully complete his vow since he is arrested in the temple by Asian Jews. These hostile Jews mistakenly believe that Paul has profaned the temple by bringing Trophimus, a Gentile Ephesian into the temple. A Tribune from the Roman fort of Antonia rescues Paul and commands that he be chained. The crowd clamours for the Apostle's blood, just as they had for his Lord's some three and a half decades earlier. In the barracks Paul speaks with the Tribune dismissing many of the fanciful thoughts as to who Paul might be. Paul asks for permission to address the crowd from the steps of the fort and his speech is recorded in chapter 22. Paul gives his defence in Hebrew and initially the crowd pays close attention. The aged Apostle describes his own education in the Pharisaic tradition under Gamaliel and his zeal for the Law. After this he tells of his experiences on the Damascus road, his conversion to a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul says that he is warned by Jesus his Lord to immediately leave Jerusalem since his testimony will not be accepted. The Jews attentively listen until Paul speaks of being sent to the Gentiles. Once again uproar follows and the Tribune commands that Paul be scourged that the Tribune might understand why the multitude were so angry with the Apostle. Paul, on this occasion, uses his Roman citizenship to avoid a pointless flogging. The chapter concludes with the Tribune intending to have Paul examined by the Jewish Sanhedrin on the next day.

Peter Reim

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers10;Psalms46–47;SongofSolomon8;Hebrews8 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers9;Psalm45;SongofSolomon7;Hebrews7 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers8;Psalm44;SongofSolomon6;Hebrews6 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers7;Psalms42–43;SongofSolomon5;Hebrews5 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers6;Psalms40–41;SongofSolomon4;Hebrews4 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers5;Psalm39;SongofSolomon3;Hebrews3 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers4;Psalm38;SongofSolomon2;Hebrews2 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers3;Psalm37;SongofSolomon1;Hebrews1 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org