Reasoning Through the Bible

What if the seemingly random events of our lives aren't coincidences, but divine intervention? This episode of Reasoning Through the Bible dives headfirst into this question as we journey through the Book of Esther. Join us as we dissect the character of King Ahasuerus, the magnificent king of the Persian Empire. We'll discuss his extravagant six-month-long celebration and the implications it holds for Esther's story and the Jewish people living under his rule. Come along for a fascinating exploration of power, pride, and divine intervention. We promise an enlightening and thought-provoking journey.

Ready for a riveting journey into one of the most intriguing stories in the Bible?  Let us transport you back in time to the Persian Empire, where the tale of Esther unfolds amidst royalty and the reconstruction of Jerusalem. This session with Glenn and Steve becomes your gateway into the captivating narrative of the Book of Esther, enriched with themes of divine providence, free will, and the birth of a Jewish holiday. We delve into the story of Esther, a Jewish woman who ascends to queenhood and uses her clout to save her people from extinction. Despite the lack of explicit references to God, we find His presence shimmering subtly throughout the tale. We'll unravel these layers of divine intervention and discuss their relevance in our modern life. So buckle up, and let's embark on this fascinating adventure together!

This week we conclude Nehemiah, a book that has talked about building a city and building a people. Nehemiah learns that the people are more difficult to build than the grand project of the walls of a city. The book finishes the construction of the walls but never finishes building the people. 

We learn that Nehemiah is quite direct and to the point: 

• What will he do when he learns the people are breaking the law?
• How far should a leader go to prevent his followers from being corrupt? 

Imagine finding yourself in a world where commitment to a sacred duty goes haywire, and disobedience becomes the order of the day. Well, that's precisely the situation Nehemiah found himself in, as he navigated the turbulent waters of guiding the congregation of Jerusalem back to adherence to God's word.  We'll also discuss the critical role of maintaining standards, especially in Christian ministry, business, and marriage.  We witness Nehemiah ensuring that the Levites are restored to their positions and the offerings are adequately distributed. It's a lesson in service and provision, in supporting the structures that uphold our faith. 

Join us on a journey through the grand celebration held by Nehemiah to commemorate the completion of Jerusalem’s walls. We peel back the layers of this milestone occasion, illuminating the importance of purification rites, and the grand gathering of Israelites from surrounding areas. Enveloped in the purification ceremony, we uncover the joy that bubbled forth, marking this as an occasion of great celebration.  For today's Christians we discuss how to dwell in the joy of the Lord and to proactively embrace the tasks and goals God has entrusted to you.

From the instrumental music to the harmonious melodies of the choirs, we relish in the details that stitched this momentous occasion together.  Then, we delve into the crucialness of appreciating and adequately compensating those who serve the Lord. Drawing parallels from Apostle Paul's wisdom to Timothy, we bring to light the plight of underpaid pastors and church workers. We spotlight Nehemiah's example as a call to action, a reminder to honor and value those who serve. Tune in next time as we chart Nehemiah's return and the final twist in Nehemiah's story.

Imagine having the audacity to pen an agreement with God and include a curse clause if you fall short? That's the audacious measure the people in the book of Nehemiah took to ensure they follow God's laws. As we journey through Nehemiah's narrative, we'll dissect the nature of that oath and the implications it carries for our contemporary relationship with God. 

Ever wondered about the weight of your offerings to God? Well, Nehemiah's account provides an insightful perspective on the art of giving. We discuss the importance of giving God the first and the best, not just in terms of resources, but also our talent and time. In this era where there aren't strict requirements on what and how much to give, the sincerity of our offerings takes precedence. We'll also uncover how God remembers and blesses those who willingly follow His lead, painting a vivid picture of the profound impact of leading a life in obedience to God's instructions.

This session takes you on a journey into the heart of Nehemiah 9, bringing its teachings on prayer, gratitude, and divine grace to life. We don't just read the scripture; we explore it, dissect it, and apply its wisdom to our daily struggles. We reflect on God's nature - love, kindness, patience – and His just judgement of sin. Taking inspiration from the Israelites, we consider our own potential for disobedience and the divine patience that welcomes us back every time. We also address the danger of forgetting God's goodness, a theme that resonates throughout the scripture, and provide strategies for maintaining a grateful heart, even in times of hardship. By the end of this session, we pray you'll have a newfound appreciation for our omnipotent creator, His blessings, and the lifeline of deliverance He's thrown our way.

Finally, we confront the reality of disobedience and deliverance. We all falter, but that's where the Holy Spirit comes in, guiding us away from worldly temptations and towards Jesus's deliverance. We close this session by reflecting on our own potential for disobedience, the humility necessary to ask for forgiveness, and the act of repentance. In essence, this isn't just a session; it's a journey that paves the way for a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God. Tune in, and let's walk this path together.

Have you ever wondered about the right approach to prayer? Join us as we journey through these scriptures, unearthing the essence of a lengthy prayer that teaches us about our nature and that of our benevolent God. We discuss how this prayer from the Israelites, filled with gratitude and praises, can guide us in crafting our own heartfelt conversations with God, reminding us to continually express gratitude for past blessings.

We then dive deeper into the fascinating aspects of God's covenant with Abraham discussed in Nehemiah 9.6. As we reflect upon God's selection of Abraham and his unwavering faithfulness, we find ourselves marveling at the grand plan of salvation that unfolds through his descendants. We also explore the promise of land made to Israel, discussing its significance and continued relevance, regardless of the transition from the old to the new covenant. As we dissect these compelling events, we hope to not only enhance your understanding of the scriptures but also offer guidance that can fortify your personal relationship with God. So, come along with us for another exciting session of Reasoning Through the Bible.

Ever wondered how it feels to hear God's Word for the first time? What emotions might you experience? Do you remember hearing God's Word for the first time? What emotions did you experience? In our latest session, we continue through the book of Nehemiah, uncovering the powerful tears of revelation and joyous celebration that come with truly understanding God's Word. We reflect on our own relationships with God, pondering how a deeper study of His Word might transform our relationship with Him.

Moving forward, we delve into the significance of celebration and our innate craving for God's teachings. Imagine devoting half a day to worship and Bible reading, then reconvening for a seven-day feast. This isn't just a festival; it's an affirmation of God's forgiveness and testament to our longing for His Word. As we conclude with an introspective look at the first few verses of Nehemiah chapter nine, we unearth the empathy and acknowledgment God extends to us through prayer. Join us on this expedition, shedding light on God’s nature, Israel's history, and His profound love for us.

In this session we explore the compelling impact of teaching the Word of God. Reflecting on the people's call to Ezra to read the law of Moses in front of the Watergate, we underline the importance of gathering together to learn and discuss scriptures, and the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of the Word of God. Our conversation reenforces that the Bible is a divine book, written about God, for mankind. 

Join us as we consider how God's Word should move people towards worship and the profound effects it should have on our lives. We're ready for some deep theological conversation, are you?

Join us, as we continue along Nehemiah's expedition of treachery, resilience, and wisdom. We explore Nehemiah's struggle against betrayal from his allies, and how his enemies were hiding within the sanctity of his religious community, spreading their deception. We delve into the harsh realities of how even those who seem to be sacred can be lured away for personal gain, offering a vital lesson on the importance of wisdom and discernment.

In the second half of this session, we dissect the strategies Nehemiah employed to counter the adversities he faced from within his own ranks. As we discuss the lessons and insights gleaned from his story, we reveal the importance of being cautious and scrutinizing even positive reports.  As we close chapter six and reflect on Nehemiah's triumphant project completion amidst numerous roadblocks, we hope our listeners find a deeper understanding of being vigilant and discerning, even in seemingly sacred spaces. Join us in this session as we continue our journey through the Bible, unearthing wisdom and insights from its pages.

Have you ever considered that compromise and negotiation might be tactics used by enemies of the Lord? In today's session we discuss the next stage of the story of Nehemiah, a man whose unwavering dedication to the Lord's message has been tested at every turn.  We delve into the possible motivations behind the controversial figures Sanballat and Tobiah proposing negotiations - was it to gain an upper hand? Or maybe a benefit? Discover the implications of Nehemiah's refusal to negotiate and the significance of the open letter sent to him. 

As we continue his story, we investigate how the opposition metamorphosed from name-calling to physical threats, illustrating the extreme lengths people can go to in their denial of the evidence of truth including that Jesus is the only way to salvation.  We will discuss why standing firm in our beliefs, just like Nehemiah, remains paramount in the face of constant opposition. Join us in today's session of reasoning through the Book of Nehemiah.

 This episode offers you a chance to dive into the Book of Nehemiah, uncovering the financial tribulations the Israelites faced while rebuilding the wall, and how Nehemiah navigated through the challenges the people were facing. We take you back in time to discuss the effects of famine, King's taxes, and the desperate measures that the people had to resort to, including selling their children into slavery. This Biblical exploration reveals a perspective on borrowing money just to survive, which is far removed from our modern understanding. 

We zero in on Nehemiah's leadership style, a beacon of moral accountability, and ethical stewardship. As we dissect Nehemiah's confrontation with Jerusalem's wealthy and his relentless efforts to rectify the injustices they had committed, we identify lessons for Christians today. Nehemiah's ethical leadership is a timeless lesson on standing up against misuse of power and fostering a fair society.  So, let's journey together, unearthing the Biblical leadership lessons and their implications on present-day financial and ethical considerations.

Ready to continue the Biblical narrative of Nehemiah? Buckle up as we plunge into his world, studying his effective strategies to combat danger and thwart an attack by his enemies. Nehemiah's story is one of exceptional leadership and spiritual endurance. In the face of adversity, he forged a path to not just survive, but triumph. Tackling obstacles head-on, Nehemiah’s unwavering dedication to his mission and reliance on prayer offers us an inspiring blueprint for life. This exploration uncovers the power of trust in God and the importance of safeguarding our loved ones through both faith and practical measures.

We will take a look at Nehemiah’s deft balancing act of prayer and practicality, as he established a round-the-clock guard to keep enemies at bay. Nehemiah's tale is far from a simple testament of faith - it's a masterclass in leadership under pressure. We confront the thorny issue of how believers should react to evil, inspired by Nehemiah's unyielding resolve to let good prevail. We’ll also draw wisdom from scriptures that motivate us to pursue peace and remember God's faithfulness when challenges arise. Prepare to be captivated by Nehemiah's courageous spirit and enduring determination, and to discover how his lessons can resonate with your life today.

Discover the intriguing parallels between the critics from Nehemiah's era and the detractors that plague modern churches. In today's episode we embark on a fascinating journey to unpack the ridicule and mockery Nehemiah faced in his mission to rebuild Jerusalem's city walls. As we traverse the narrative of Nehemiah, we reveal the darker side of Sandballot and Tobiah’s nature, stirring animosity while offering nothing constructive. We unmask their attitudes, born out of a perceived threat to personal domains and a reluctance to witness other's success. The conversation takes a deeper turn as we suggest that the loudest critics may be the ones with the weakest relationship with the Lord.

Lastly, we dissect Nehemiah's potent prayer, his plea to God to punish his tormentors. This prayer, a stark contrast to others in the Bible, teaches us to stand firm against critics and leave their judgment to God. As we wrap up, we evaluate the trials of Christian ministry and how faith in God equips us with the strength to endure. Join us as we extract wisdom from Nehemiah's experiences, giving you the tools to handle criticism and negativity in your ministry or church.

Welcome to a journey through Nehemiah Chapter 3 where we draw from his meticulous project management skills in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, We tease out spiritual and practical lessons that are applicable to today's church and personal life. It's an enriching exploration that reveals the significance of harnessing resources efficiently and the power of detailed record-keeping in project management.

The episode delves deeper into the fascinating spiritual symbolism embedded in the project. We decode the significance of the Sheep Gate, its historical importance, and its profound connection with Jesus Christ. We turn our attention to the twelve gates of Jerusalem - each with its unique representation in both present-day life and future types. We discuss the parallels between the refuse and temple gates and Paul's analogy of the Body of Christ in the New Testament. The episode concludes with a discussion on who in history walled up the east gate, implemented a cemetery outside the east gate and why. Join us, and let's unravel the invaluable lessons that Nehemiah's story holds for us today!

Ready to uncover the project management prowess of Nehemiah and how he navigated the waters of criticism and opposition? Listen in as we dissect the second chapter of the Book of Nehemiah, highlighting the timeless wisdom he demonstrated in securing buy-in from a diverse team, handling naysayers strategically, and compellingly presenting his plans. 

This episode is a treasure trove of Nehemiah’s project management strategies. We delve into how he tactfully, through God, obtained approval and materials from King Artaxerxes to rebuild Jerusalem's walls and smoothly dealt with the disgruntlement of regional officials. Join us on this journey, and enrich your knowledge on the importance of planning, the significance of external viewpoints, and the inevitable resistance that comes with new ideas. Get ready for a comprehensive exploration into the intersection of faith and leadership.

Prepare to unearth the deep lessons from the life of Nehemiah! As a man in exile, with a heart for his homeland, he showcases the power of faith, patience, and strategic planning as he presents a proposal to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem to King Artaxerxes. Absorb the wisdom he imparts about waiting for the right moment and being adequately prepared for the challenge ahead. 

We'll further delve into Nehemiah’s audacious action plan. His approach to not only highlighting a problem but also offering a solution is a principle we can apply when dealing with authorities or even within our church interactions. Towards the end, we focus on Nehemiah's involvement in government processes for Biblical objectives. Learn how he effectively leverages his influence within the system to bring about positive societal changes, while trusting God for the outcome. So, tune in and get inspired by Nehemiah’s exceptional wisdom!

What if the ancient Biblical figure Nehemiah held lessons for our modern lives? The story of Nehemiah, the cupbearer turned wall-builder, takes center stage in this journey through the Bible. Holding a position of influence, Nehemiah is a striking example of how God puts His chosen in strategic places to serve His divine purposes. Nehemiah's heart-wrenching reaction to the devastation of Jerusalem teaches us about turning to God in times of need and being driven by a cause. 

We dive into the beauty of Nehemiah's prayer and confession. It not only reminds us of our rightful relation to God and His loving kindness, but also underscores the strength in acknowledging our sins. Chapter one shines a spotlight on his deep connection with his homeland and his people, offering insights into how we too can become catalysts for change in our own spheres. This episode offers a refreshing and thought-provoking study on Nehemiah’s proactive approach to problem solving. Join us as we move onto the next phase of Nehemiah's story and his plans for rebuilding Jerusalem. We're excited for you to continue on this journey with us!

Have you ever considered the impact one man can have with unwavering faith and relentless courage? Today, we tackle the remarkable story of Nehemiah, a man with a divine mission to rebuild not just the walls and gates of Jerusalem, but also the spirit of its disheartened people. We'll wander through the history of Israel, from the divided Kingdom to the 70-year captivity in Babylon. 

Now, imagine the daunting task of rallying a group of demoralized and disorganized people to construct something as massive as a city's wall. As we delve into Nehemiah's character, we’ll draw some parallels between Nehemiah and Ezra.  Whether you're an ardent Bible scholar or at the start of your spiritual journey, we promise to make your exploration of the book of Nehemiah an enriching, enlightening experience. Join us as we begin the study of this book.