Contents: Genesis, Exodus, Lev-Num-Deut, Josh-Judg-Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, Ezra-Neh-Esther-Job, Psalms, Prov-Eccl-SofS, Major Prophets
Genesis 01:01-19 In the Beginning–God (Part 1 of 2)
A comparison of the different ideas about creation (Young Earth, Gap Theory, Day-Age, Theistic Evolution, etc.). Why I’m a “young earth” creationist.
Genesis 01:01-19 In the Beginning–God (Part 2 of 2)
A comparison of the different ideas about creation (Young Earth, Gap Theory, Day-Age, Theistic Evolution, etc.). Why I’m a “young earth” creationist.
Genesis 01:27 Sanctity of Human Life Sunday 2019 1/21/19
Using SLED to communicate pro-life truth
What it means to be created in the Image of God (Imago Dei)
Why non-Christians often try to silence Christians
How Jesus is the perfect Image of God
How knowing that people are created in the Image of God affects not only our views on abortion, but also mercy killing, euthanasia, assisted suicide, racism, and spiritual warfare
The significance of God choosing to use a plural pronoun to refer to Himself
How Biblical “dominion” is God’s balance between abusing the creation and making an idol out of it
The contemporary Satanic attack on God’s design of gender
Transcript of part of the Tuesday, January 15 episode of Dr. Al Mohler’s The Briefing describing the new Framework for teaching about gender in public schools in California
A few closing comments on the current transition situation in our church
Genesis 01:1-5 Introduction to God’s Creation (Part 1 of 3)
A look at various ways men have interpreted Genesis 1. Evidence from science and Scripture that supports young-earth cosmology. Evidence that may support old-earth cosmology. Evidence for creation from microbiology. Evidence for creation from the fine-tuning of the universe. Evidence for the gap theory. Significance of the creation of light before the creation of the sun. (Continued in the next podcast.)
Genesis 01:6-28 God Creates (Part 2 of 3)
A look at days 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 of creation. Significance of creating the sun on day 4. Consideration of the word “kinds” (baraminology). Examining the intense attack by our enemy, the devil, on what God did on day 6 of creation. Significance of Imago Dei (image of God), male and female, dominion, being fruitful. (This a continuation of the previous podcast.)
Genesis 01:29-2:4 God Creates (Part 3 of 3)
A look at early vegetarianism. The amazing significance of the 7-day week. Why attempts were made during the French Revolution and by Josef Stalin to change the 7-day week. Why most Christians no longer observe the 7th day Sabbath as Jews were required to do in the Old Testament. First mention of the Name of God, Yahweh. Dealing with the common Atheist argument, “You don’t believe in Thor, or Zeus, or Hermes, or Allah, do you?” (Christian: “No.”) Atheist: “Well, then, see? We are both atheists! I just believe in one fewer god than you do! When you understand why you reject all those other gods, you will understand why I reject yours!” Don’t be flummoxed!
Genesis 07-08 Recognizing the Need for Judgment
The first 15 minutes or so of this podcast is an overview of the PrayerMate App.
Evidence that the Great Judgment of the Flood of Genesis 7 was universal and global.
How the world hates the doctrine of Judgment.
Summary of Tim Keller’s sermon entitled “Accepting the Judge.” Illustration from Arthur Miller’s After the Fall of how denying the existence of a Judge leads to despair.
Argument from Miroslav Volf that understanding that there is a Judge does not lead to violence, but non-violence.
(This podcast is concluded in the subsequent podcast.)
Conclusion of the previous podcast. Why we must have the Judgment. Without the Judgment life leads to despair. Also, because all of us do things from bad motives (e.g., pride and fear) and because God Judges on the basis of what is in our hearts, there is no hope for us apart from Jesus. How both liberals and conservatives can botch the truth about the Judgment. In Christ we can warn people of the coming Judgment without being arrogant or prideful ourselves.
God remembered Noah. The raven and the dove. The altar and the burnt offering. How the seasons may have begun. Men become meat-eaters. Animals become man-fearers. Significance of clean vs. unclean meats. The institution and significance of the death penalty and those who would remove it. The problem with the death penalty in America. Comparison with the effect of “no gun” signs.
First use of the word covenant. God’s promise. Includes the animals. The rainbow.
Noah’s sin of drunkenness and immodesty. Ham’s sin. The curse on Canaan. The horrific interpretation that was given this passage by earlier racists in America.
Genesis 11-14 Abraham–Part 1
Significance of the Table of the Nations in chapters 10 and 11. Early account of Abram. The unilateral covenant God made with Abraham. The significance of blessing Israel. Abram’s temptation to go to Egypt and what resulted from that mistake.
Genesis 11-14 Abraham Part 2
This study concludes the study that was begun in the previous podcast. The problems Abram got into while in Egypt. God’s faithfulness even when Abram sinned. The critical need to get back to fundamentals when we have allowed ourselves to wander. The need to love God more than kindred. The consequences of Lot choosing based on external appearance. Curious trivia associated with the Oak of Mamre. Abraham as a kinsman redeemer pointing us to the later account of Ruth and Boaz and ultimately pointing us to Christ as our Go-el (Kinsman Redeemer). Abraham’s wealth and organizational skill and wisdom to be able to field a trained fighting force of over 300 men. The mysterious account of Melchizedek and how he pictures Christ.
Genesis 16-17 God’s Promise to Abraham, Part 1
A wife may give bad counsel, but the husband is still responsible. Examples of the danger of trying to do things for God our way instead of His way. God’s amazing care for Hagar. Importance of getting a new name. The sign of the covenant. Why God may have chosen circumcision. The difference between Ishmaelites and Muslims.
Genesis 17-18:15 God’s Promise to Abraham, Part 2
Continued discussion of circumcision. Circumcision in the New Testament. Comparison of circumcision and baptism. “Angels Unaware.” Jesus appears to Abraham. Abraham’s strong example of hospitality. When a gentle rebuke is enough. Sometimes punishment is not necessary..
Genesis 22–The Binding of Isaac
Genesis 22 is one of the most familiar chapters in the Bible. For many, it is also a chapter that brings great chagrin. But God has an exciting purpose for bringing about these events and for causing them to be preserved for us in His Word. We are introduced here to God by His Name, Jehovah Jireh. He is The Eternal God, our Provider.
Genesis 23–the Death and Burial of Sarah
Sarah is the only woman whose age at her death is given in Scripture. She is also the only woman that we are encouraged, twice, to learn from. In spite of her mistakes, she provides a godly example of faithfulness and loyalty.
Mourning over the death of a loved one is normal and a God-given way to express sorrow. Yet we mourn with great hope.
We learn some things about the ancient, healthy, honor culture from this chapter. It contrasts with the horrifying, murderous, demonic way that parts of modern Islam practice a so-called honor culture. Women’s advocacy groups estimate that over 20,000 women are killed in the form of honor killings each year. Examples are given here.
Over the course of his life, Abraham was required to give up some things that were very precious to him, including, now, his wife of many decades, Sarah. We too will be required to do the same. It is important for us to focus, as Abraham did, on things that we will certainly not ever be required to give up.
Genesis 25-28 Jacob’s Marvelous Ladder
How did God supernaturally protect both Sarah and Rebekah from nature and from their foolish husbands?
How did God show that He is Sovereign over human traditions or logic?
How did Isaac’s family demonstrate that they were dysfunctional and that they were not trusting God?
How were Isaac and his family confused about Isaac’s ability to pronounce a blessing?
What is the powerful significance of the vision God gave Jacob of the ladder between heaven and earth?
Genesis 32–Refusing to Let Go
An overview of Bible history from 2100 to 1900 BC
Family tree of descendants of Terah
How Mahanaim got it’s name
Overview of the ministry of angels
Why Jacob feared Esau
What we can learn from Jacob’s prayer
Why God often seems reluctant to bless His kids
The significance of Jacob’s new name, “Israel”
What the Bible has to say about “Staying in the Battle” in spite of God’s apparent reluctance
Genesis 37-50 Joseph Points to Jesus
God has engineered some amazing prophecies, typology, and illustrations into His Word that point us to Jesus and make it incredibly plain that the Bible is God’s Word. This is a Bible study from our Standing Firm class at Fairview Baptist Tabernacle. We meet each Sunday in room 209 at 10:15 AM. We’d love for you to join us!
Genesis 40-41 Joseph–Pointing Us to Jesus
How Joseph endured what seemed like meaningless and unjust treatment, yet kept a right spirit
How he helps us appreciate those with the gift of mercy
How God continues to speak through dreams and visions
The difference in being content and being fatalistic when we are in difficult circumstances
The importance of preachers and teachers teaching the bad news of judgment and the consequences of sin, as well as the good news of God’s love and grace
How we often think we have learned God’s lessons when He knows we really have not
How God often uses one of His men to explain His truth to an unbeliever
The need for us to pray that God will raise up counselors like Joseph again today
How Joseph’s life experiences parallel the life of Jesus
How God honored Joseph’s two sons
Exodus 01-04 Moses Points us to Jesus
Introduction to Exodus
Apparent Contradiction in the Bible? (04:30)
Chapter-by-chapter walk through Exodus (16:16)
Ways Moses and Exodus point us to Jesus (26:16)
Chapter 1 (37:25)
Chapter 2 (40:13)
Chapter 3 (44:02)
Chapter 4 (55:24)
Exodus 1-4 Introduction to Exodus– I AM (part 1)
Discussion of the dates and time frame for Israel’s time in Egypt and the Exodus
Overview of the book of Exodus
How Moses points us to Jesus
How Exodus points us to Jesus
The significance of God’s name, Yahweh
How Jesus clarified the burning bush episode
Exodus 1-4 Introduction to Exodus– I AM (part 2)
Moses argument with God
Does God harden hearts?
Zipporah is forced to circumcise their son
Getting prepared for God to work in ways that we do not expect and do not appreciate
Exodus 13 The Feast of Unleavened Bread Points us to Jesus
The first part of this Bible study was shared with the Standing Firm Bible Study Class at Fairview Baptist Tabernacle in Sweetwater, TN on 12/19/21.
Exodus 13:1-14:12 The Feasts Point to Jesus
The significance of the consecration of the firstborn
How the Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and the Feast of the Firstfruits point to Jesus
Significance of the term “between the evenings”
How some are tempted by the fall feasts to predict the second coming of Jesus
The huge challenge of passing God’s truth to the next generation
The importance of memorizing God’s Word
How God leads in unexpected ways and through difficult paths
Why Pharaoh wouldn’t give up the chase
Remembering the faith of Joseph
What we learn from the pillars of cloud and fire
Exodus 14-15 A Mighty Deliverance to Sing About!
Life lessons from God’s deliverance of Israel at the Red Sea and the worship that followed.
Exodus 14:13–15:19 Lessons from the Red Sea
How, as we age, fiery trials should cause us less panic
There is a time for waiting and a time for action. We must be able to discern which is which.
What God communicates to our enemies when we require deliverance
The God of the Bible is BOTH love, protection and salvation AND judgment, destruction, and wrath
We cannot delegate back to God that which He has delegated to us.
How the behavior and fate of Pharaoh reminds us of our enemy, the devil
The high praise of the Song of Moses
God is not a wimp
Exodus 15:20–17:16 He is Bread from Heaven, Healer, Living Water, Banner of Victory
Miriam joins the Song of Moses, a song for all times
God makes bitter water, which previously had looked so refreshing, sweet
Jehovah-Rophe: The Lord our Healer
How God provides, while at the same time requiring hard work from us
How the manna typifies Jesus
How mountain-top, emotional experiences aren’t enough to carry us through the really tough times
How some people really do turn out to be shockingly, incorrigibly self-centered and rebellious
How God trained Israel to keep themselves separate from other peoples through Sabbath-keeping.
How God produced springs of water from solid rock and pointed us to Jesus
How the battle with the Amalekites teaches us the critical importance of steadfast prayer
Jehovah-Nissi: The Lord our Banner of Victory
Exodus 16-17 Bread from Heaven. Water from the Rock.
The New Testament makes it clear that both of these supernatural events (Bread from Heaven and Water from the Rock) are pointing to Jesus.
Exodus 18-20 God’s Law Points Us to Jesus
God used Jethro to teach Moses something valuable. God gave his people different kinds of laws. The Israelites had to learn to love and trust God.
Exodus 25-27 The Tabernacle Points to Jesus
The generous offering the people gave for construction of the tabernacle and what it tells us about giving and about people
How the Ark of the Covenant points us to our Merciful God
The three items in the box and why they were there
The Table of the Showbread–God desires fellowship with His people
The Menorah–The Light of Jesus shines through us
The four layers of the coverings of the tabernacle and what they teach
The frames of the tabernacle
How the Veil points us to Jesus
How the Bronze Altar points us to the cross of Jesus
How the Oil for the Menorah reminds us that we must walk continuously filled with the Holy Spirit
Exodus 25-40 The Tabernacle Points Us to Jesus
This is an examination of a few of the many ways the tabernacle of Moses points us to New Testament Truth and to our Lord Jesus Christ. (Start at 20:37 if you were in class with us.)
Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy (back to top)
Leviticus 01-07 The Sacrifices Point Us to Jesus
Leviticus can be tough sledding for 21st century Christians. In this study we consider how the sacrifices described in the 1st few chapters point us to Jesus.
Leviticus 1-7 The Sacrifices Point to Jesus
In this study: How the Burnt Offerings, the Grain Offerings, The Peace (Fellowship) Offerings, the Sin Offerings, and the Trespass Offerings point to Jesus.
Leviticus 11-16 Yom Kippur Points to Jesus
The laws regarding clean and unclean meats
New Testament teaching about clean and unclean meats
The laws regarding uncleanness after childbirth
The laws regarding uncleanness due to leprosy
What we learn about sin from leprosy
The laws regarding the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)
Numbers 01-14 In the Wilderness
There are many life lessons for us today that we learn from the accounts of the Israelites being led through the wilderness.
Numbers 1-9 In the Wilderness
Introduction to Numbers and it’s place in the Bible
Preparing for freedom and for warfare
God’s love for organization
God’s rejection of primogeniture
The command to guard the things of God
Lessons from the leprous and the unclean
Lessons about adultery and jealousy
Lessons from the Nazarite vow and the value of starting over
God’s wonderful benediction on us
Importance of the Passover
Led by the Shekinah Glory of God
Numbers 10-30 A Walk Through Numbers
An overview of the first 30 chapters of the book of Numbers, with an emphasis on passages that point us to Jesus and passages that remind us of how serious God is about sin.
Deuteronomy 05 & 06 The Law
An overview of the law as it is revealed in Scripture. The different types of laws given in the Bible. The purpose of those laws. What happened to the laws after Jesus came.
Deuteronomy 05:17 & 19:1-13 God Values Life 1/20/20
Brief review of Roe v Wade and Norma McCorvey
Introduction and overview of book of Deuteronomy
Hebrew words for “kill” and “murder”
Why God instituted the death penalty
Why Levites were to be spread out over the land
The significance of the cities of refuge
The significance of the “Kinsman Redeemer” (Go-el)
How all these things point us to Jesus
Message from Randy Davis about Tennessee SB1236
How abortion is a tool of men to oppress women
How medical ethicists are attempting to keep students with Biblical ethics out of med school
Deuteronomy 27-30 Blessings… & Curses
A walk through the third sermon of Moses recorded in Deuteronomy.
The blessings for obedience
The curses for disobedience
The impossibility of obtaining eternal life by obedience
Our desperate need for the mercy of God
How the horrifying prophecies of curses for Israel’s disobedience were fulfilled
How the scattering and regathering prophecies of Israel were fulfilled
The impossibility of getting answers to all of our questions in this life
The prophecies that Israel will one day turn back to the Lord
Why we must have circumcised hearts
How Jesus is our only Hope
Joshua, Judges, Ruth (back to top)
Joshua 01:01-18 For the Lord Your God Is With You Wherever You Go
In this powerful passage of Scripture, God teaches us how to be courageous when we are facing overwhelming circumstances. We left the study in class today at approximately (37:35). To hear the accounts of Thomas Bilney and Hugh Latimer, go to (44:30)
Joshua 1:1-9 How to Face Overwhelming Circumstances
The next time you have to face overwhelming circumstances, your mind will definitely be meditating on something. Why not let that “something” be this wonderful passage of Scripture. There are wonderful promises to Joshua here that parallel wonderful promises that we are given in Christ. And there are important specific commands given to Joshua here that remind us of what our own responsibilities are in the face of overwhelming circumstances.
Joshua 23-24 The Last Words of Joshua
The last words of any of God’s men can be powerful. Joshua’s final address is a powerful portion of God’s Word
Judges 6 Gideon (part 1): The Peace of God Leads to War
An overview of the book of Judges
How painful judgment can really be merciful
How trying to hide from judgment won’t work
Why God likes to choose weak vessels
How we fall into a humanistic trap when we tell our kids, “You’re awesome. You can do anything you want to do.” without telling them the whole truth
A discussion of the signs that God gave Gideon and how that might relate to us
The powerful effect that an appearance of the Lord or of His angel has on people
How the peace of God will lead us into war
How it’s an honor to be on Satan’s “hit list” and not a cause for fear
The danger of allegorizing Scripture
Judges 7 & 8 More Life Lessons from Gideon (part 2)
How and why God trimmed Gideon’s army to move them from being 4 to 1 underdogs to being 450 to 1 underdogs
How God so mercifully kept on encouraging Gideon
How the Sword of the Lord strikes terror into the hearts of His enemies
How God’s people are often better at handling times of fiery trials than they are at handling times of ease
Our desperate need to “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 4:2)
Why God might have allowed some Old Testament men to have many wives
Why Israel preferred to be in covenant with Baal than in covenant with Jehovah
Judges: When Everyone Does What Seems Right to Them
This is an overview of the book (and period) of the Judges. The key words, found in 17:6 and 21:25, are “Everyone did what seemed right in his own eyes.” There is also a closer look at lessons we can learn from the life of Gideon.
Ruth: The Beautiful Providence of God
The account of Ruth & Naomi is a beautiful example of God working through his people in times and situations that may appear very dismal. It is a wonderful study for Mother’s Day!
1 Samuel 01-02 Hannah & Samuel Point us to Jesus
It’s fascinating how God has chosen to engineer the lives of Hannah and Samuel to point us to Jesus.
1 Samuel 01:01-16 Hannah (Part 1)
An overview of 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, and 1 & 2 Chronicles.
Why God allowed men in the Old Testament to have multiple wives.
How God often leaves the “why” questions unanswered, giving us opportunity to trust His wisdom.
The significance of the Nazarite Vow and how it might relate to us today.
How Christians must be prepared to be misunderstood and continue to be faithful anyway.
The significance of praying with passion.
1 Samuel 01:15-2:10 Hannah (Part 2)
Wisdom to know when to answer and when to keep silent.
The importance of worshiping God before the answer comes.
How to exult in God at the time of greatest sacrifice.
Hannah’s song.
The folly of pride.
Hannah–the first explicit prophecy of the Messiah.
How Samuel’s life foreshadows the life of Jesus.
How Hannah’s life parallels the life of Mary.
1 Samuel 02-03 Pray for the SBC: “God, Raise up a Samuel!”
Our Southern Baptist Convention is in trouble. We need some Samuels.
1 Samuel 02:12-03:13 Accountable
The Problem with the way Eli dealt with Hophni and Phinehas
The importance of spiritual accountability
How our rebellion will not stop God
The difference between proverbs and promises
Why God can’t forgive us as an act of His will apart from the death of Christ
Samuel as a type of Christ
How God used Solomon to fulfill His prophecy against Eli
How God honors those who honor Him (story of Eric Liddell)
How God spoke to Samuel
What churches and parents and grandparents can learn from Eli about holding others accountable
1 Samuel 04-11 Getting ahead of God (Part 1)
It’s critically important that we learn to do things God’s way and in God’s time. Getting ahead of God is a disastrous sin and leads to painful outcomes.
1 Samuel 12 Getting ahead of God (Part 2)
It’s critically important that we learn to do things God’s way and in God’s time. Getting ahead of God is a disastrous sin and leads to painful outcomes. Plus examples of people making decisions when God is ignored and personal autonomy is considered to be supreme.
1 Samuel 12 For His Great Name’s Sake (part 1)
An overview of 1 Samuel chapters 9, 10, and 11.
An introduction to the man Saul
Early prophecies and types that indicate God intended for Israel to have kings–but in His time, not theirs
Israel’s earlier flirtation with kingship under Gideon and Abimelech
How “doing what is right in our own eyes” leads to great darkness
How God redeems all kinds of sin and rebellion to bring glory to Himself
Why God did not install Moses and Joshua as kings of Israel
Why God does things for His great Name’s sake
How the name of God has become virtually irrelevant in much of our culture
How our culture has embraced personal sovereignty as the highest moral good
How Christians discussing contemporary moral issues is like responding to being poked in the eye
How a paper in the Journal of the American Medical Association Internal Medicine could lead to Christians being blamed for the health problems of gays, lesbians, and bisexuals.
1 Samuel 12 For His Great Name’s Sake (part 2)
The astonishing legal dilemma for Christian Pharmacists in Washington State
How liberal secularists are guilty of bullying
How the Supreme Court decision about Texas abortion clinic regulations puts women at risk for the sake of abortion convenience
How we must never forget Kermit Gosnell (https://aboundingjoy.com/blog/?p=1241)
How sexual desires now often trump freedom of religion
How the California state senate has passed a bill designed to punish Christian schools for teaching Christian beliefs
How Christians must continue to magnify the Name of the Lord, knowing that our time here is brief
How Satan often gets believers to quit the battle when they have blown it badly
1 Samuel 16 In Spite of Human Failure God Keeps Working His Plan
As God rejects Saul and chooses David, He teaches us powerful lessons about our relationship with Him. We can also learn valuable lessons for living life in very painful & difficult relationships with others who may be in authority over us.
1 Samuel 16:01-13 Anointing of David
Contrast between Saul and David
Is it ever morally acceptable to lie?
Biblical examples of godly deception
Danger of falling into moral relativism
Review of Chapter 15
The troubling requirement to kill every man, woman, child, and infant, as well as all sheep, camels, and donkeys
To obey is better than sacrifice
Man looks on the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart
David’s training as a shepherd
David’s grueling 15-year training under an oppressive authority
Examples of Psalms that came from David’s heart during these very difficult times
1 Samuel 16:14-23 Worship as Spiritual Warfare
The Spirit of the Lord left Saul
An evil spirit from the Lord–how God can use evil spirits
How worship of the true God can be a powerful weapon against spiritual enemies
1 Samuel 21:01-23:06 Lessons from Saul and David
A brief review of chapters 16-20
David’s encounter with Ahimelech at Nob
A brief history of the tabernacle and the ark
How Jesus used this encounter to emphasize that people were more important than the ceremonial law or the holiness code
The significance of the Urim and the Thummim
David’s flight to Philistia and it’s consequences, including Psalms written at this time
David at Adullam. How the group of 400 men who came out to him typifies our relationship with Christ
Alan Redpath quotes
Significance of the Psalms that David wrote from Adullam
Why David decided to leave his parents in Moab
Introduction to the prophet Gad
Overview of some of the ways that God encouraged David during these difficult days
How Saul played the role of a victim
How Doeg, under orders from Saul, slaughtered all the priests, their families, and the livestock.
The Psalm (about Doeg) that David wrote after the single escapee from the slaughter of the priests, Abiathar, came to him
How David’s deliverance of the town of Keilah from the Philistines contrasts with Saul and Nob
1 Samuel 23:07-29 More Lessons from David
David continues to avoid Saul
Saul continues to pursue David
The amazing Jonathan
The contrast between the Ziphites and Jonathan
How we will also experience encouragers as well as betrayers
The nauseating hypocrisy of Saul
God’s perfect timing
How we must not try to delegate back to God assignments that He has delegated to us
How David’s perseverance typifies the perseverance of Jesus and encourages us in our difficult times
How God knows how to give times of refreshment, as at En Gedi
1 Samuel 24 David Teaches us to Wait on God–Part 1
(The first eight minutes of this podcast is a report from our Daughter-in-Law, Melissa Miller, concerning the work of CASA [Court Appointed Special Advocates] of East Tennessee.)
In this Bible Study:
A review of chapters 21-23
David’s wives
David at En-gedi
How reprieves from spiritual battles must be recognized as temporary
How David refuses an opportunity to stop all the stress by killing Saul
David’s tender conscience
How David knew he couldn’t let his men do his dirty work and escape guilt
How David (and Peter and Paul) teach us to honor and respect godless rulers for the sake of the Lord who instituted them and for the sake of the office
How some unteachable spiritual leaders abuse the phrase, “Touch not mine anointed.”
How we need to be sensitive not to attempt to burden spiritual leaders with unnecessary nitpicking criticism
The deception of emotional, but temporary, remorse
How betrayers can arise from unexpected sources
Example from Solzhenitsyn (The Gulag Archipelago) from the reign of Stalin to illustrate the atmosphere in which betrayal becomes common.
1 Samuel 26 David Teaches us to Wait on God–Part 2
A look at Psalm 54 (which David wrote after being betrayed by the Ziphites)
David’s dogged determination to wait on God
How David anticipates Romans 12:19-21
David once again proves that he is not Saul’s enemy
The value and the limits of Christian Apologetics
2 Samuel 01:01–02:07 Learning from David’s Attitude
How do 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, and 1 & 2 Chronicles fit together?
What is the history of Israel and of the Ark of the covenant leading up to the book of 2 Samuel?
Wasn’t it cruel and brutal of God to order the destruction of even the baby Amalekites?
Why was Saul rejected by God?
Why was David living in Ziklag, Philistia?
Why might the young Amalekite have decided to claim to have killed Saul?
What are some parallels between the Amalekites and our sinful flesh?
What great lesson can we learn from David’s response to the news of Saul’s death?
What made it possible for David to have such an unusual attitude?
What did the men of Jabesh-Gilead do to earn David’s respect? And how did he probably earn their respect as well?
2 Samuel 05-06 Worshiping at Mt. Zion
What is the immediate history that leads up to David’s coronation over all Israel?
Why did David want to set up the capital at Jerusalem?
Why was that a problem?
What lessons can we learn from David’s early wars with the Philistines?
What mistake with others do we sometimes make when God convicts us to do a specific work for Him?
What is the journey taken by the ark of the covenant before it ended up on Mount Zion?
What was the significance of the ark of the covenant?
What event forced David to learn that God’s Work must be done in God’s Way?
How did some aspects of the “church growth” movement violate that principle?
What is the significance of David wearing an ephod and dancing before the ark?
What can we learn about worship from David?
What can we learn about worship from Michal?
How does Satan try to quench our worship?
What did Amos and James have to say about the tabernacle of David?
How was worship at the tabernacle of David different from worship at the tabernacle of Moses?
Why are the Psalms so precious to New Testament followers of Christ?
2 Samuel 08-10 We Are Mephibosheths
To what extent did David enlarge the borders of Israel?
When it came to descendants of the previous king, how was David different from most kings?
How does the account of David and Mephibosheth remind us of our relationship with Jesus?
What can we learn from David as we observe his treatment of Mephibosheth?
What was Mephisosheth’s amazing response when Ziba slandered him?
What circumstances led up to David’s most tragic and disgusting decision?
2 Samuel 13-14 Lust, Indulgence, Consequences
What do we know about David’s Sons?
What was Amnon’s problem?
What was Jonadab’s problem?
How can we communicate to our daughters and granddaughters the difference between lust and love?
How should Jonadab have counseled Amnon?
Why are Christians often tempted to tell people what they want to hear instead of what they need to hear?
How should we respond when a so-called Christian begins to go off in a sinful direction?
Why might David have been such an indulgent father?
What happens to children who are indulged?
How did Amnon compound his sin?
How did David react to the news of the rape of Tamar?
How might David have avoided Absalom’s murder of Amnon?
What does David’s inner struggles over what to do about Absalom teach us about our own families?
How did Joab try to solve the dilemma?
How did the wise woman from Tekoa teach us some important New Testament truth?
What does Absalom teach us about ourselves?
What caused Absalom’s bitterness to grow?
What gave Absalom favor in the peoples’ sight?
How do we make decisions about the balance between strictness and leniency with our children and grandchildren?
2 Samuel 22-23 The Sweet Psalmist of Israel
In 2 Samuel 22 & 23 God highlights one of the Psalms most precious to David himself, also the final Psalm God gave him, and a glimpse into the relationship David had with his mighty men.
What is one of the best ways to begin communication with God?
What is the significance of recognizing God as our “Rock?”
How did God add to that image when Moses was leading the Israelites through the wilderness?
How did the Spirit, through Paul, illuminate that phenomenon in the New Testament?
What other metaphors does God use to emphasize His protection of us?
What does God want us to realize when we cry out to Him?
When we cry out to God, what does He want us to leave in His hands?
What does God reveal about His wrath in the Old Testament? in the New Testament?
How does God want us to recognize and deal with subtle pride that can creep into our lives?
How do we know that God expects us to engage in offensive as well as defensive warfare? What are some ways we can do that?
What is the significance of God’s choice to tell us about David’s mighty men?
Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job (back to top)
Ezra 7-8 Ezra–More Important than You Thought
How Ezra is second in importance only to Moses to Jewish Scholars. Why the US founding fathers gave tax exemption to the church. Why the Persian kings were so generous and gracious to the Jews. The significance of fasting as a spiritual discipline. The danger of trying to delegate back to God responsibilities that He has delegated to us.
Ezra 9-10 Keeping the Passion
Why marrying pagan wives was so unacceptable. How the issue was not interracial marriages. The problem of unbelieving spouses in the New Testament. How Ezra sets an example for our attitude toward sin. The effect of Ezra’s passion. How to pray when our people have messed up.
Nehemiah 03, 07, 11 Many Names–Many Lessons
Nehemiah chapters 3, 7, and 11 consist largely of long lists of names. But tucked away in the lists are powerful spiritual lessons. We must not miss these!
Topics: Characteristics of the spiritual gift of organization. The importance of leaders setting an example. The importance of doing our work for the Lord, not for other people. The importance of being willing to do so-called menial work. When we sin, the importance of repenting, confessing, accepting God’s forgiveness and getting back into the battle. We must not use the excuse of past sin to stay out of the battle. The importance of continued growth in learning how to worship well. How we, as believers, can build walls to protect ourselves and our families from sin, from challenges from other worldviews, and from doctrinal error. The value of podcasts. Tips for using smartphone podcast apps and Bible study apps. The danger of population decline.
Nehemiah 08:10 Abounding Joy!
The sad history of Israel leading up to the assurance that the joy of the Lord was their strength
The fascinating command to rejoice when our circumstances seem bad
The story behind the beginning of the AboundingJoy.com website
The importance of “focus”
Nehemiah 09:1-3 Cautions about the Devotional Book: Jesus Calling
The significance of public mourning over sin. The significance of the Hebrew word, “Yadah.” The significance of confessing the sins of our ancestors. The 1995 SBC resolution on race relations. The importance of walking in repentance throughout life. Three hours in the Word followed by three hours of praise and worship. The problem of our short attention spans. The danger of wanting to hear from God apart from disciplined, time intensive Bible reading and Bible study. The danger of substituting prayer for Bible study and obedience. The danger of a desire to get a message directly from God instead of hearing God through His Word, the Bible. The meaning of Sola Scriptura. The dangers associated with Sarah Young’s devotional book, Jesus Calling, and the book which inspired her, God Calling.
Nehemiah 09:4-38 Praising God for His Awesome Creation
Praising God with energy without being concerned about what people might think. Praising the Name of God. Praising God for His Creation. The awesome makeup of living cells points to a Creator. The importance of Abraham’s faith. The importance of remembering how God has brought us through past crises. The personality of the Holy Spirit. The pattern of Israel, and of us: (1) God blesses; (2) we get comfortable; (3) sin begins to seem trivial; (4) God raises up prophets to warn us; (5) some repent; (6) most don’t; (7) God brings suffering to get our attention. (8) repentance leads to blessing.
Esther 1-3 God Is Working behind the Scenes (part 1 of 2)
The first part of this lesson consists of an overview of the history from the time of Babylon’s capture of Jerusalem in 605 BC to the end of the Old Testament. Hopefully, this will help us understand how Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther fit into the flow of history.
Other contents:
Discussion of the intense hatred of Jews by many people throughout history.
Discussion of how God uses even horrible events and circumstances, engineering events from behind the scenes, to prepare us to bring much glory to Him.
Discussion of how Esther’s submissive and teachable spirit brought great glory to God and great blessing to herself and to her people.
Discussion of some things that we must try our hardest to teach young girls over whom we have any influence.
Esther 1-3 God Is Working behind the Scenes (part 2 of 2)
This is part 2 (and the conclusion) of the study of the first three chapters of Esther.
Esther 1-3 What We Must Try to Teach Girls
While I was not privileged to have a biological daughter, I AM privileged to have some absolutely wonderful granddaughters! They are amazing! What blessings from God! I can get all teary-eyed just thinking about them!
As I meditated on what I would say about Esther and what I would like to try to teach my own granddaughters, these thoughts arose.
This is a 4 1/2 minute excerpt from the Esther 1-3 (part 1) study.
Vickie encouraged me to upload this one as a separate brief podcast for the benefit of those who might not be able to find time to listen to the entire study.
So, if you have any influence over girls, I would urge you to listen and pray about what God might have you do for them!
Job 1 & 2 When Personal Disasters Come
Job was probably the first book of the Bible to be written. It is profound. And the story of Job will help us when we enter, as we must, into our times of personal disaster. We must understand the difference between joy and happiness. And we must learn that we can mourn with great grief and still not lose our joy in the Lord.
In this lesson I also share the painful story of my own Dad’s spiritual life.
Job 29-31–Conquering Sexual Temptations
Recap of the entire book of Job. How Job, the oldest book in the Bible, anticipates New Testament teaching. Learning to recognize the present times of blessing instead of only dwelling on the past or anticipating the future. The mistake of presumption. Learning to handle the times when God seems to make no sense to us. Parallel of Job 31 with the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). Job’s “oaths of clearance.” Job’s “covenant with his eyes.” The incredibly difficult time young people face in our day with sexual temptation. How we can practically help them win those battles.
Job 31 (Part 2) Is That in the Old Testament? or the New? 7/2/13
This podcast is a continuation of the previous podcast from Job 29-31. Job 31 reads like a chapter that could be from the New Testament, even though Job is probably the oldest book in the Bible! This chapter also contains a strong pro-life statement which is worth some meditation. But even Job went too far in seeking to demand an answer from God. We can learn much from this rich chapter!
Psalm 001 Delighting in God’s Word
Introduction to the book of Psalms
Comparison of Jewish Tanakh and our Old Testament
Purposes of the Psalms–Why God gave them to us
How God shows us two ways and requires us to choose
The danger of ungodly counsel
Learning how to delight in God’s Word
How to meditate on God’s Word
How delighting and meditating on God’s Word makes us like fruit trees
How we can keep from withering up
The sad result of choosing the other way
Psalm 019 The Heavens and the Word
How the heavens declared the glory of God in David’s day
How God has gradually revealed more of His stunning handiwork to men as men have tried to explain the universe without Him
Examples of God’s fine tuning of His creation
The tremendous poetic tribute to God’s Word in vv. 7-9
What our response should be
How God’s Word is more valuable than Gold and than delicious physical food
How we can win over the secret sins that so easily come upon us
How we need God to keep a watch over our mouths and over our hearts
Psalm 022 Veritas 2020 #11 Fulfilled Prophecy (2 of 3)
Psalm 22 Prophecy (Jesus on the Cross)
Isaiah 52-53 Prophecy (Suffering Servant)
Psalm 023 The Lord is My Shepherd
We are so thankful to our Lord for putting this Psalm in His word! It is certainly one of the most comforting passages in all of the Bible.
In this study, we also consider some of the names God has given Himself, focusing on the compound names. Then we see how His compound names fit the 23rd Psalm so beautifully.
Psalm 042–Beating Depression
God used David to write Psalm 42 when David was struggling with depression. It is a “Maskil” (instructional) Psalm. God intends for us to learn from this Psalm how to defeat depression.
Psalm 051 How to Confess Sin (Part 1)
One of the most precious promises we have from God’s Word is that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
In Psalm 51, after his sin with Bathsheba, David gives us a beautiful example of the godly confession of sin.
There is a lot of powerful and profound theology in this Psalm. It’s worth some thoughtful, prayerful meditation.
In this study:
The background of Psalm 51 (2 Samuel 11-12)
The consequences of sin
The difference between our conception of justice and God’s perfect justice
The difference between sinning against people and sinning against God
Two ways in which we are all “in Adam.”
This study is continued in the next podcast.
Psalm 051 How to Confess Sin (Part 2)
How we are “in Adam”
The danger of superficial confession
The significance of hyssop
How David’s life anticipates New Testament teaching (imputed righteousness, worship)
The relationship between confession and joy and singing
How a great worship service can serve as a thermometer for our hearts
Do we really have “free will?”
Psalm 084 Learning to Worship from the Sons of Korah
The fascinating history of the sons of Korah
Nuggets from some of the Psalms of the sons of Korah
Significance of God’s use of the plural “tabernacles”
Significance of the tabernacle of David and Mt. Zion
Developing a hunger for God
Significance for us of God’s love for little birds
Significance of the word “Selah”
God: our Strength and our Shield
How Psalm 84 points us to Christ
Psalm 113:03 God’s Wonderful Names
Psalm 113:3 says, “From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD’S name is to be praised!”
God has given us His wonderful Names to remind us of His nature and His character. When we are struggling with different issues of life, calling on God using these names can radically change our perspective!
Psalm 113:03 The Names of the Lord (CCCS Chapel 3/8/18)
Why does God command us to praise His Name?
What are some of the most frequently used names of God?
What are some of the most precious compound names of God?
How does the 23rd Psalm summarize the character of God that He reveals to us in His compound names?
Psalm 139 Sanctity of Human Life Sunday 2018 1/22/18
The omniscience of God
The omnipresence of God
The difference between omnipresence and pantheism
The amazing creation of a human baby in the image of God
How pro-abortionists love darkness and hate the light and frantically try to stamp it out
Illustrations from current news items
Psalm 141 Part 1 God Uses David to Teach Us a Wonderful Prayer
David’s only hope is the Lord
The Altar of Incense and Prayer
Praying for God to guard our lips
Praying for wisdom to not be influenced or entrapped by wicked men
Praying for counsel and even painful rebuke from righteous men
How and when to offer counsel to others
Psalm 141 Part 2 God Uses David to Teach Us a Wonderful Prayer
Praying against the wicked
The account of how David prayed against Ahithophel
Learning to gaze on God and glance at our problems (instead of vice-versa)
Praying for protection from traps and snares
Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon (back to top)
Proverbs 01 (Part 1)–Getting Wise Kids
God intends for marriage to produce children. But more, He intends for marriage to produce wise children that have been instructed from God’s truth. This is the responsibility of both mom and dad.
Are we teaching our kids to fear the Lord?
(Note: The first part of this podcast is an update of the Veritas Project. Also included is what may be a new and very helpful way for you to better live out the wisdom of Proverbs!)
This study is continued in the next podcast: Proverbs 1 (Part 2)–Wise Kids? or Fools?
Proverbs 01 (Part 2)–Wise Kids? or Fools?
Many parents, not understanding God’s principles, are unwittingly turning their foolish kids into foolish adults.
The importance of meditating on Proverbs lest we become guilty of acting like fools ourselves.
Proverbs 01:01-08 Introduction to Proverbs
Introduction to the Book of Proverbs
Proverbs 01:07 Marks of a Fool
Some characteristics of fools
Proverbs 03:13-35 By Understanding He Established the Heavens
Solomon’s wisdom and perspective. The female personification of wisdom. The wisdom of God behind creation. The significance of the word “abomination.” The inheritance of the righteous.
Proverbs 05-07 Avoiding Immorality + Learning from the Animals
Proverbs 5:1-23 Dealing with Immorality
Proverbs 6:1-5 Assuming the Debts of Others (Begins at 12:57)
Proverbs 6:6-11 Learning from the Animals (Begins at 16:12)
Proverbs 6:12-15 Dealing with Deceivers (Begins at 27:55)
Proverbs 6:16-19 Seven Things God Hates (Begins at 28:50)
Proverbs 6:20-23 Why Memorize? (Begins at 29:57)
Proverbs 6:24-7:27 More on the Danger of Immorality (Begins at 31:40)
Proverbs 06:06-11 Learning from the Animals
(This video is an excerpt from the Proverbs 5-7 Bible Study Video)
Proverbs 08 & 09–Wisdom Cries Out
Topics: Why it is important for us to recognize God’s use of the literary device of personification in these verses. (Jehovah’s Witnesses do not recognize this use of personification.) A brief look at other examples of metaphors and personification in the Scriptures. Anyone who wants wisdom can find wisdom. Gullibility can seem to be endearing, but God is not pleased with it. Why it is dangerous.How wisdom is more important than money. Why God hates pride so much. The importance of elected and appointed officials praying for wisdom. Suggestions from the Bible that the earth is really round. How it’s possible to hear wisdom and still neglect it. Learning to think long range. How young kids and fools focus only on the short range. The importance of reproof and a God-given exception to giving reproof. How to recognize wise people. The difference in promises and principles. How Proverbs is a book of principles and general truths, not promises.
Proverbs 10-14 Jesus is the Way
Wisdom from the book of Proverbs about discipline, reproof, humility, seeking counsel, etc.
Proverbs 28:10-12 Speaking Out Against the Horror of Abortion 1/19/15
The times are becoming more and more difficult as we watch the erosion before our eyes of our rights to free speech and our rights to freedom of religion. Some examples of how these rights have been challenged in recent days.
You will also hear me read a very moving testimony from a woman named Nancyjo Mann who had an abortion in the 1980s.
Proverbs 30-31 Every Word of God Proves True
God’s Word can by trusted.
Proverbs–Diligence and Money Wisdom–Part 1
Topics: The danger of rationalizing laziness. The danger of enabling laziness by inappropriate giving. The importance of diligence. The importance of redeeming the time. The danger of becoming a workaholic. Instilling a godly work ethic in our kids and grandkids. The lesson of the ants. The lesson of the messy oxen. The danger of overspending and of underspending. Teaching kids financial wisdom.
Proverbs–Diligence and Money Wisdom–Part 2
Topics: Saving vs Hoarding. Helping kids learn financial wisdom. Getting financial counsel from wise counselors. It really is more blessed to give than to receive. The danger of hiding our eyes from the poor. How to discern between giving that blesses and giving that harms. Some things that are more valuable than money. Praying “don’t give me riches.” How money can deceive. Get rich quick schemes. Short range happiness that leads to long range misery. Honoring the Lord with money.
Ecclesiastes 5-6
Ecclesiastes! This is a challenging book! You don’t hear many sermons from this part of the Bible. But perhaps God put it there to challenge us to learn to be discerning when listening to folks who are not really tuned in to the reality of Eternity. Some of their ideas are really good! But some are grievously deficient.
Father, please grant us discernment!
Song of Songs 1-2 Pursue the Passion!
Song of Songs 3-4 Pursue the Passion! (Part 2)
Recapitulation of the “little foxes” that can destroy the passion that God intends for a marriage to have in order for that marriage to be (1) a beautiful picture of our relationship with Jesus, (2) a beautiful illustration to others of what a Biblical marriage should be, and (3) a marriage filled with great joy.
This is a look at the beauty and the lessons we learn from Solomon and Shulamith as they continue their courtship leading up to the time of their marriage.
Acts 08:26-40 God’s Awesome Timing
Isaiah 01-04 Introduction to the Gospel Prophet
Isaiah 24-27 Judgment, Wrath, & Glory
Isaiah 34-39 Terrifying Situation–Awesome God
Isaiah 42-48 Prophecy, Warning, Comfort
Isaiah 51-57 The Greatest Prophecy
Isaiah 61:1-3 Beauty for Ashes
Isaiah 7-12 The Messiah & the Remnant
Romans 01:02 Promised Beforehand Through His Prophets
Veritas 2020 #10 Fulfilled Prophecy (1 of 3)
Veritas 2020 #11 Fulfilled Prophecy (2 of 3)
“Know, Grow, Show” (Part 1–“Know”)
Lamentations 03, Psalm 51, Matthew 02 God is Faithful
Ezekiel 1-3 A Hard Message to a Hardened People
Ezekiel 33:21ff–Is This Pain God’s Judgment?
Ezekiel 40-48–Ezekiel’s Temple
Daniel 6–In the Lion’s Den–Part 1