Daily Bible Reading Phil Fields
Join us in reading through the whole NLT Bible in 365 20-minute-long podcasts! This podcast was previously named Daily Bible Reading.
info_outline
NL-Day208 Jeremiah 13-14; Psalm 144; 1 Corinthians 1
07/20/2025
NL-Day208 Jeremiah 13-14; Psalm 144; 1 Corinthians 1
JEREMIAH 13-14:In yesterday’s reading, Jeremiah complained to the Lord, 12:1 “Lord, if I argued my case with you,you would [be shown//prove] to be right.Yet I must question you about matters of justice.Why are the wicked so prosperous?Why do dishonest people succeed? And the Lord replied in an answer that bears reading in context and needs some thinking about, “Jeremiah, if you get tired racing against people,how can you race against horses?If you can't even stand up in open country,how will you manage in the jungle by the Jordan? PSALM 144:This poem is quite a contrast with what we have just heard in Jeremiah. This is the joyful prayer of a king who is leading his people according to the will of God. 1Corinthians 1:In Paul’s day, Corinth was a metropolis on the Mediterranean Sea with a population of between one hundred and fifty thousand and three hundred thousand Roman citizens and about 460,000 slaves. There was evidently a healthy criminal population, and the city was a center of banking, so there were incredibly wealthy people there. The city was full of idol shrines of deities from Egypt, Greece, and Rome, and there was cult prostitution. Some commentators claim that 1 Corinthians contains parts of two letters from Paul, so that 2nd Corinthians might actually be a third or fourth letter. I don’t buy that. Key topics of the letter include the divisions in the church, the obstacles to sharing the Gospel, God’s wisdom as it appears to Greeks and Jews, partnership among apostles of Christ, vice in the church, various instructions about marriage, the Lord’s supper, food sacrificed to idols, Paul not cashing in on his rights as an apostle, spiritual gifts and the spiritual fruit of love, and the resurrection of Christ. NLT Translation notes:1Cor. 1:12 Some of you are saying, “I am a follower of Paul.” Others are saying, “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Peter,” or [even] “I follow only Christ.”17 For Christ didn’t send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News—and not with clever speech, [so//for fear] that the cross of Christ would lose its power.22 It is [foolishness/foolish] to the Jews, who ask for signs from heaven. And it is [foolishness/foolish] to the Greeks, who seek human wisdom.27 Instead, God chose things [and people] the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful.30 God has [joined you as one//united you] with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5451156
info_outline
NL-Day207 Jeremiah 11-12; Psalm 143; John 21
07/20/2025
NL-Day207 Jeremiah 11-12; Psalm 143; John 21
JEREMIAH 11-12:Yesterday we heard important verses in chapter 9:23-24, verses that Paul quotes more than once: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom,or the powerful boast in their power,or the rich boast in their riches.But those who wish to boastshould boast in this alone:that they truly know me and understand that I am the LORD … PSALM 143:It seems that prayer is very neglected these days. Oh yes, we might hear something vague about praying for victims right after some tragedy strikes. But it seems that every church has trouble keeping a prayer meeting going. I myself have trouble keeping my prayer life going. David shows in this psalm that he has learned secrets of effective prayer. Note how his prayer is very like how Jeremiah felt in the two chapters we just read. JOHN 21:This is one of my favorite chapters. John again tells us important information not given in the other gospels. Note that there is a famous exegetical fallacy here. John does use two different words for ‘love’ in the dialog between Jesus and Peter. But this should NOT be taken— as has been so frequently taught, as showing a play on words, or that John was intending different shades of meaning. Instead the use of synonyms is just a feature of John’s style in writing. John does this for poetic variation, like the parallelism in Hebrew poetry. Another example of this in this same passage is the variation of ‘little lambs’ and ‘sheep’. NLT Translation notes:John 21:7 Then [I—//0] the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his tunic (for he had stripped for work), jumped into the water, and headed to shore. [Although John has thinly concealed his identity since chapter 1, it becomes clear in this chapter that he wants to make it clear that the eyewitness he has referred to as ‘the disciple Jesus loved’ was himself. (John did not want to boast of having been a disciple of Jesus, yet at the same time he wanted to show that this book is an eyewitness account.) Using this literary device is odd enough in English. In some languages of the world, translating this device literally would be so confusing that it is better to rephrase these passages so that John speaks in the first person. Translators who do this will add a footnote explaining why John used the third person instead of the first person. In my opinion, for a podcast like this, it will be much clearer for listeners to use the same technique, and this is my footnote explaining my changes to the NLT text.] Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5451131
info_outline
NL-Day206 Jeremiah 9-10; Psalm 142; John 20
07/20/2025
NL-Day206 Jeremiah 9-10; Psalm 142; John 20
JEREMIAH 9-10:Being a prophet is not exactly an easy job. In 7:27 God told him, “Tell them all this, but do not expect them to listen. Shout out your warnings, but do not expect them to respond.” We’ll find that God told the same thing to more than one prophet around this same time. PSALM 142:When you are discouraged, here is a psalm to pray! JOHN 20:There are so many fulfillments of Scripture that happen in the crucifixion chapters in the Gospels that many times the authors didn’t take the time to highlight each one of them. The Jewish readers would have picked up on them without the need for an explanation. In verse 36, John highlighted one fulfillment, saying, “This was done to make the scripture come true: ‘Not one of his bones will be broken.’” I hope you remember what that was about! See Ps. 34:20, Ex. 12:46, Num. 9:12. If you don’t know, I hope this teaser will encourage you, because this is a golden gem. And Jesus’ death did not mean that he stopped fulfilling Scriptures. NLT Translation note:Jer. 9:10 But [YOU/the] LORD [are/is] the only true God.[You are//He is] the living God and the everlasting King!The whole earth trembles at [your/his] anger.The nations cannot stand up to [your/his] wrath.====Ps. 142:1 I cry out to [You, O/the] LORD;I plead for [your/the LORD’s] mercy.2 I pour out my complaints before [You/him]and tell [You/him] all my troubles.====John 20:1 Early on Sunday morning,a while it was still dark, Mary [— the woman from the village of Magdalene//Magdalene] came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 3 Peter and [I, John,//the other disciple] started out for the tomb. [This is so strange in many languages that it is translated in the first person. It is clear that John wanted that people know that this is an eye-witness account. This change I am making goes through this paragraph.]27 Then he said to Thomas, “[Thomas,] Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. [Instead] Believe!”31 But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in [Jesus/him] you will have life [through His power//by the power of his name]. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5451028
info_outline
NL-Day205 Jeremiah 7-8; Psalm 141; John 19:14-42
07/20/2025
NL-Day205 Jeremiah 7-8; Psalm 141; John 19:14-42
JEREMIAH 7-8:In this and several other prophetic books, it is important to observe where quotes begin and end, and who is speaking. The section headings are also very helpful to our understanding. Modern translators and editors use the heading to help modern readers understand such things as ancient poetic imagery. Yesterday's reading had this ironic statement spoken by the Lord: 5:19 When they ask why I did all these things, tell them, Jeremiah, that just as they turned away from me and served foreign gods in their own land, so they will serve strangers in a land that is not theirs.” PSALM 141:David received the answer to his prayer in verse 5, if this was written before his affair with Bathsheba. Nathan did what David prayed for here. This psalm contains gems that are well worth digging for and meditating on. JOHN 19b:I believe that John saw, and wanted us to feel, the extreme irony in many events that we have read. The ironic events and statements also didn’t happen by accident. It was not an accident that the mob who came to arrest Jesus stumbled back and fell when he said, “I am He.” That was— and still is, a sign from God. All of the statements of Pilate and the chief priests drip with irony which they could not see, but which we can. “I find no fault with this man!” “Behold your king!” “We have no king but Caesar!” “What is truth?” “Don’t release him, we want Barabbas!” NLT Translation notes:Jer. 7:8 “‘Don’t be fooled into thinking that you will never suffer because the Temple is here. [That’s/It’s] a lie! 11 Don’t you yourselves admit that this Temple, which bears my name, has become a den of thieves? Surely I see all the evil going on [here/there]. I, the LORD, have spoken!====John 19:3“Hail[ to you,!] King of the Jews!” they mocked, as they slapped him across the face.12 Then Pilate tried to release him, but the Jewish leaders shouted, “If you release this man, you are no ‘friend of [the high king] Caesar.’ Anyone who declares himself a king is a rebel against Caesar.”24 So they said, “Rather than tearing it apart, let’s throw dice for it.” This fulfilled the Scripture that says, “They divided my garments among themselves and threw dice for my clothing.” So that is what they did [(without knowing they were fulfilling Scripture)].26 When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, “Dear woman, [there/here] is your son.”[Here and in verse 27, the literal Greek is “See-imperative.” It is a matter of interpretation whether in the first instance Jesus could be saying, “See what I have become,” or, “Look at that guy next to you. He is your son.” The difference would be a nod of the head or a motion of Jesus’ eyes. I think that Jesus’ intention was correctly interpreted by John in 27b.]27 And he said to this disciple, “[That/Here] is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home.31 It was the day of preparation, and the Jewish leaders didn’t want the bodies hanging there the next day, which was the Sabbath (and a very special Sabbath, because it was the Passover). So they asked Pilate to hasten [the deaths of the crucified men//their deaths] by ordering that their legs be broken. Then their bodies could be taken down.35 ([John writes a parenthetical comment:] This report is from an eyewitness giving an accurate account. [I speak/He speaks] the truth so that you also can believe.) Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5449895
info_outline
NL-Day204 Jeremiah 5-6; Psalm 140; John 18:28-19:27
07/20/2025
NL-Day204 Jeremiah 5-6; Psalm 140; John 18:28-19:27
JEREMIAH 5-6:God, speaking through the prophets, frequently says how he feels about idolatry. He considers it just like the faithlessness of a wayward wife. It is moving that Jeremiah could so clearly see what would happen— the anguish of the people when his prophecies are fulfilled and they will be attacked by armies from the north. PSALM 140:This is a prayer for anyone who fears the imminent attack of wicked enemies. JOHN 19a:The chapter break here interrupts the story of Jesus’ trial before Pilate. Jesus has already told Pilate that he is a king, but his kingdom is not of this world. Then when Jesus said, “I was born and came into the world for this one purpose, to speak about the truth. Whoever belongs to the truth listens to me.”— Pilate asked his famous rhetorical question, 38“And what is truth?” Then Pilate went back outside to the people and said to them, “I cannot find any reason to condemn him. 39 But according to the custom you have, I always set free a prisoner for you during the Passover. Do you want me to set free for you the king of the Jews?”40 They answered him with a shout, “No, not him! We want Barabbas!” (Barabbas was a bandit.) NLT Translation notes:Jer. 5:6 I said to [You/the] LORD, “You are my God!”Listen, O LORD, to my cries for mercy!11 Don’t let [these] liars prosper here in our land.Cause great disasters to fall on [those violent men//the violent].12 But I know [that You, Lord//the LORD] will help those they persecute;[You/he] will give justice to the poor.====John 19:3 “Hail[ to you,!] King of the Jews!” they mocked, as they slapped him across the face.12 Then Pilate tried to release him, but the Jewish leaders shouted, “If you release this man, you are no ‘friend of [the high king] Caesar.’ Anyone who declares himself a king is a rebel against Caesar.”24 So they said, “Rather than tearing it apart, let’s throw dice for it.” This fulfilled the Scripture that says, “They divided my garments among themselves and threw dice for my clothing.” So that is what they did [(without knowing they were fulfilling Scripture)].26 When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, “Dear woman, [there/here] is your son.” [Here and in verse 27, the literal Greek is “See-imperative.” It is a matter of interpretation whether in the first instance Jesus could be saying, “See what I have become,” or, “Look at that guy next to you. He is your son.” The difference would be a nod of the head or a motion of Jesus’ eyes. I think that Jesus’ intention was correctly interpreted by John in 27b.]27 And he said to this disciple, “[That/Here] is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home.31 It was the day of preparation, and the Jewish leaders didn’t want the bodies hanging there the next day, which was the Sabbath (and a very special Sabbath, because it was the Passover). So they asked Pilate to hasten [the deaths of the crucified men//their deaths] by ordering that their legs be broken. Then their bodies could be taken down.35 ([John writes a parenthetical comment:] This report is from an eyewitness giving an accurate account. [I speak/He speaks] the truth so that you also can believe.) 37 and “They will look on the one they [have] pierced.” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5449856
info_outline
NL-Day203 Jeremiah 3-4; Psalm 139; John 18:19-40
07/20/2025
NL-Day203 Jeremiah 3-4; Psalm 139; John 18:19-40
JEREMIAH 3-4:In yesterday’s reading there was a play on words in Jer. 1:11-12, where the Hebrew word for ‘almond tree’ sounds like the word for ‘watching’: 11 Then the Lord said to me, “Look, Jeremiah! What do you see?” And I replied, “I see a branch from an almond tree.” 12 And the Lord said, “That’s right, and it means that I am watching,* and I will certainly carry out all my plans.” *footnote: The Hebrew word for “watching” (shoqed) sounds like the word for “almond tree” (shaqed). Yesterday we also read Jeremiah 2:13, which is one of the most frequently quoted verses from this book. Look at it in context starting at verse 11: Jer. 2:11 NLT Has any nation ever traded its gods for new ones, even though they are not gods at all? Yet my people have exchanged their glorious God for worthless idols! 12 The heavens are shocked at such a thing and shrink back in horror and dismay,” says the Lord. 13 “For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me— the fountain of living water. And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all! PSALM 139:What a contrast with what we just read! Our God searches us out and knows all about us. This psalm has been a great comfort to many. JOHN 18b:Jesus knew he was walking inexorably to the cross. To me it is interesting that in Jesus’ short time with the governor of the land, he brought the focus to the concept of ‘truth’. NLT Translation notes:Jer. 4:2 Then when you swear by my name, saying,‘As surely as the LORD lives,’you could do sowith truth, justice, and righteousness.Then you would be a blessing to the nations of the world,and all people would come and praise [Me//my name].”====John 18:22 Then one of the Temple guards standing nearby slapped Jesus across the face. [He snapped,] “Is that the way to answer the high priest?” [/he demanded.]24 Then (retired high priest) Annas bound Jesus and sent him to Caiaphas, the (current) high priest.28 Jesus’ trial before Caiaphas ended in the early hours of the morning. Then he was taken to the headquarters of the Roman governor. His accusers didn’t go inside because it would defile them, and [they would not be able//they wouldn’t be allowed to] celebrate the Passover. 30 [The Jewish leaders replied,] “We wouldn’t have handed him over to you if he weren’t a criminal!” [/they retorted].35 [Pilato snapped back,] “Am I a Jew?” [/Pilate retorted.] “Your own people and their leading priests brought you to me for trial. Why? What have you done?” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5449368
info_outline
NL-Day202 Jeremiah 1-2; Psalm 138; John 18:1-27
07/20/2025
NL-Day202 Jeremiah 1-2; Psalm 138; John 18:1-27
JEREMIAH 1-2:The book of Jeremiah was written between 627 and 580 BC. Counting the number of verses, Jeremiah is longer than all other books of the Old Testament except Genesis and Psalms. Jeremiah is often called the weeping prophet, and his other book is Lamentations. It is possible that he is the son of the high priest Hilkiah who brought the book of the Law to the attention of king Josiah. Having just heard in 2 Kings an overview of what happened during the last days of the kingdom of Judah, we now will hear the poems and sermons of a sensitive man living through it all. Mears says, “No other prophet bares his soul to his readers as does Jeremiah. Although Jeremiah announced the coming destruction of Judah, he looked beyond this judgment to a day when everyone would know the Lord personally through the forgiveness of his or her sins (Jer. 31-34). This new kind of relationship with the Lord would be part of the “new covenant” the Lord would establish with his people (Jer. 31:31).” PSALM 138:This is the first of a series of eight psalms where the psalmist speaks in the first person singular. This psalm includes an important declaration in verse two, which ESV translates like this: Ps. 138:2 I bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word. NLT and CEV have done a good job translating the meaning, and I particularly like the second phrase in NLT. JOHN 18a:As John said in chapter 13, “Jesus, having always loved his disciples, he loved them to the end.” NLT Translation notes:John 18:22 Then one of the Temple guards standing nearby slapped Jesus across the face. [He snapped,]“Is that the way to answer the high priest?” [/he demanded.]28 Jesus’ trial before Caiaphas ended in the early hours of the morning. Then he was taken to the headquarters of the Roman governor. His accusers didn’t go inside because it would defile them, and [they would not be able//they wouldn’t be allowed to] celebrate the Passover. 30 [The Jewish leaders replied,] “We wouldn’t have handed him over to you if he weren’t a criminal!” [/they retorted].35 [Pilatos snapped back,] “Am I a Jew?” [/Pilate retorted.] “Your own people and their leading priests brought you to me for trial. Why? What have you done?” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5449185
info_outline
NL-Day201 Jonah 3-4; Psalm 137; John 17
07/13/2025
NL-Day201 Jonah 3-4; Psalm 137; John 17
JONAH 3-4:Running from God didn’t work for Jonah. When saved from the ocean, Jonah grudgingly obeys God. For most of my life I have been fooled by Jonah's prayer in chapter 2, and I am not alone, because others have called it, “One of the great prayers in the Bible.” For most of the prayer, Jonah simply borrowed verses from the Psalms. And there is nothing wrong with that! However, if you look closer, Jonah prayed a me-centered and self-righteous prayer. The worst thing about it is there is no hint of repentance or asking forgiveness. PSALM 137:As a musician, I can imagine what the musician who wrote this felt. The imprecation at the end should be taken in view of God’s justice. Compare the thought here with Rev. 6:9 and following verses (the cry of the saints under the altar), and also the ending chapters of Revelation that portray the vengeful judgment against ‘Babylon’— which in that book is used as a figurative name. Rereading JOHN 17:Note again the importance of the organic bond of union between the Father, the Son, and we who believe in Jesus. Again note the bond of love. Note that our Savior actually prays for us. And this is because we live in a world that is not our home. NLT Translation notes:John 17:1 After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify [Me— ]your Son[,] so [that I//he] can give glory back to you.2 For you have given [Me/him] authority over everyone. [I give//He gives] eternal life to each one you have given [to Me//him].3 [Parenthesis by John:] And this is the way to have [that] eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth.11 Now I am departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, [you have given me your power. Now protect them by your power and for the sake of your reputation.//you have given me your name; now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are.]12 During my time here, I protected them by the power you gave me. I guarded them so that not one was lost, [0//of the name]except the one headed for destruction, as the Scriptures foretold.21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are [joined together with/in] me, Father, and I am [joined with//in] you. And may they be [joined as one with/in] us so that the world will believe you sent me.23 I am [joined together with//in] them and you are [joined together with//in] me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.25 “O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you, but I [know you//do]; and these disciples know you sent me.26 I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be [joined together as one with//in] them.” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5449161
info_outline
NL-Day200 Jonah 1-2; Psalm 136; John 17
07/13/2025
NL-Day200 Jonah 1-2; Psalm 136; John 17
JONAH 1-2:For quite a few years when I was just reading the Bible without a set reading plan, I enjoyed a break from reading the books of history after Second Kings, moving to the prophets. And our first is Jonah, who was mentioned back in 2 Kings 14. Note that the little story of Jonah is masterfully written. Little details poke out everywhere. Jonah has a downward journey. He goes down from Jerusalem to Joppa, then down again into the hold of the boat, and then down into the underworld of the ocean. He wasn't just being disobedient. He was saying, “I'm turning in my prophet's mantle.” Bob Deffinbaugh: “Let’s face it, don’t you find that our text has reversed the heroes and the villains? … we would have expected Jonah to be the hero, while the heathen sailors would certainly have been expected to be the villains. This was certainly the perspective of Jonah, and of the Israelites, whom he typified. Yet in our text it is the sailors who pray, while Jonah does not. The sailors sought to deal with sin on the ship, not Jonah. The sailors end up worshiping God, [Jonah grumbled against God//not Jonah]. The sailors have compassion on Jonah, while he seems to have little concern for the danger in which he has put them. Clearly this chapter turns our expectations inside-out.” Even the fish comes out better than Jonah. He obeyed. The pagans of Nineveh and their king also come out looking better than Jonah. They repent. PSALM 136:This is the most famous antiphonal psalm. If it won’t bother anyone around you while you are listening, I invite you to join me on the antiphonal response: His love is eternal. JOHN 17:Jesus’ high priestly prayer is considered the pinnacle of the upper room discourse. NLT Translation notes:Ps. 136:6Give thanks to him who placed the earth [upon/?in between/among] the waters.His faithful love endures forever.====John 17:1 After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify [Me— ]your Son[,] so [that I//he] can give glory back to you. 2 For you have given [Me/him] authority over everyone. [I give//He gives] eternal life to each one you have given [to Me//him]. 3 [Parenthesis by John:] And this is the way to have [that] eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth. 11 Now I am departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, [you have given me your power. Now protect them by your power and for the sake of your reputation.//you have given me your name; now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are.]12 During my time here, I protected them by the power you gave me. I guarded them so that not one was lost, [0//of the name]except the one headed for destruction, as the Scriptures foretold.21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are [joined together with/in] me, Father, and I am [joined with//in] you. And may they be [joined as one with/in] us so that the world will believe you sent me.23 I am [joined together with//in] them and you are [joined together with//in] me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.25 “O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you, but I [know you//do]; and these disciples know you sent me. 26 I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be [joined together as one with//in] them.” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5449124
info_outline
NL-Day199 2 Kings 24-25; Psalm 135; John 16
07/13/2025
NL-Day199 2 Kings 24-25; Psalm 135; John 16
2KINGS 24-25:In yesterday’s reading, we heard of Josiah’s reforms, leading the people to renew the covenant with God. That chapter had this telling comment about the Passover: 2Kings 23:22 There had not been a Passover celebration like that since the time when the judges ruled in Israel, nor throughout all the years of the kings of Israel and Judah. Many times I think people make the naive assumption that the people of Israel customarily performed all sorts of difficult commands in the Law— like the one about the Year of Jubilee. In my opinion, no way! PSALM 135:Olsen’s book gives the title for the chapter on this psalm as, “What kind of God do you have?” That’s a great question to ask to introduce this psalm! JOHN 16:At the end of chapter 14, Jesus mentioned leaving that ‘place’— the upper room, but Jesus’ teaching in chapters 15-16 fit so well with chapter 14 that they may have taken place in the upper room. This chapter includes more important teaching about the Holy Spirit— our Advocate, and important key concepts about prayer. NLT Translation notes:John 16:23 At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you [pray for the sake of my glory//use my name].24 You haven’t done this before. [Make requests for the sake of my glory//Ask, using my name], and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.26 Then you will [make requsts/ask] [for the sake of my glory//in my name]. I’m not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf,31 Jesus [said/asked], “Do you finally believe?33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace [because of being joined with//in me]. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5349490
info_outline
NL-Day198 2 Kings 23; Psalm 134; John 15:18-16:15
07/13/2025
NL-Day198 2 Kings 23; Psalm 134; John 15:18-16:15
2KINGS 23:Hilkiah found the book of the Law in the temple while repairs were being carried out as ordered by king Josiah. When Josiah heard the book of the Law, he instituted reforms. And God again is glorified in fulfilling a prophecy we heard in 1 Kings. PSALM 134:I would like to have been one of the Levitical temple musicians who had the duty of singing praises to God at night. This is the last of the Psalms of Ascent. JOHN 15:18—16:15:We are still in the upper room. I have chosen to reread the last verses of chapter 15, in order to help us make the connection with chapter 16. NLT Translation notes:John 16:23 At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you [pray for the sake of my glory//use my name].24 You haven’t done this before. [Make requests for the sake of my glory//Ask, using my name], and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.26 Then you will [make requsts/ask] [for the sake of my glory//in my name]. I’m not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf,31 Jesus [said/asked], “Do you finally believe?33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace [because of being joined with//in me]. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5349463
info_outline
NL-Day197 2 Kings 21-22; Psalm 133; John 15
07/13/2025
NL-Day197 2 Kings 21-22; Psalm 133; John 15
2KINGS 21-22:The Assyrian king mocked the God of Israel at the end of chapter 18. We heard God's answer yesterday in chapter 19, and we were introduced to the prophet Isaiah. Hezekiah asked to live for a longer time, and his request was granted. I have heard that there is actually scientific proof of the long day miracle that was given to Hezekiah. What a shame that he did not ask God not to send his sons to Babylon! PSALM 133:This Psalm of Ascent comes at a very fitting time in relation to our readings yesterday and today in John. If we are _one_ with Jesus, then we are _one_ with one another. Rereading JOHN 15:Today we hear again about our vital relationship of oneness with Jesus. We didn’t actually choose Him! Before we chose Him He had already chosen us. If you are one who has difficulty believing that there is anything good about you, let your identity and worth be based on this passage! Here also we find the promise repeated of answered prayers when we pray for the sake of Jesus’ name— which is to say, for his cause or for his glory. Note that this is not just ‘dropping or using Jesus’ name’. God realizes when we are praying selfish prayers, and He is not fooled by our tacking on ‘in Jesus name’ at the end. NLT Translation notes:John 15:4 Remain [joined to//in] me, and I will remain [joined to//in] you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain [joined to//in] me. (Similarly in 5-7.)[When talking of the organic unity of a branch and a vine, we don’t say a branch ‘in’ a vine, do we?! Greek says it that way. But it is much more natural it English to say a branch is ‘joined’ or is ‘connected’, and various other words. Because of this, we also tend to miss out on the meaning of ‘in Him/Christ’ that comes up so often in the New Testament. The meaning is NOT that we are ‘inside’ Him, but that we are joined as one with him.]16 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, [for my name’s sake/for the sake of my glory//using my name].[This promise is NOT about ‘dropping’ or ‘using’ Jesus’ name! Ending a selfish prayer with, “in Jesus’ name” does not transform it into a good prayer. We don’t simply ‘use’ Jesus’ name and cash in on this promise! God can tell the difference when people unselfishly pray for things in the cause of bringing glory to Christ.This must be one of the worst mistakes in the NLT! This translation shows that the translator has been affected by modern Christian culture and did not consider what this really means. But then, I must admit, every translator, including me, falls in this regard from time to time, and that is why it is said in the NIV introduction, “No translation is perfect.”] Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5349444
info_outline
NL-Day196 2 Kings 19-20; Psalm 132; John 15
07/13/2025
NL-Day196 2 Kings 19-20; Psalm 132; John 15
2KINGS 19-20:The writer of 1 & 2 Kings was very brief about the sins of the people of Israel (in both kingdoms) until what we heard yesterday. He seems to have saved the moral of the story until chapter 17. And then we have the wonderful contrast with Hezekiah in chapter 18. Then the Asyrian king mocked the God of Israel at the end of chapter 18. We hear God's answer today. PSALM 132:It would appear that Solomon wrote this Psalm of Ascent, as part of it was quoted by him at the dedication of the temple. JOHN 15:Yesterday we heard Jesus promise that He would send our Advocate/Comforter/Helper, the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is the one who literally ‘comes along beside’ and will lead us into all truth and be with us forever. And I think it is really due to Him that we can have “a peace that the world cannot give or understand.” NLT translation notes:Ps 132:2 He made a solemn promise to [You/the] LORD.He vowed to [You,] the Mighty One of Israel,====John 15:4 Remain [joined to//in] me, and I will remain [joined to//in] you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain [joined to//in] me. (Similarly in 5-7.)[When talking of the organic unity of a branch and a vine, we don’t say a branch ‘in’ a vine, do we?! Greek says it that way. But it is much more natural it English to say a branch is ‘joined’ or is ‘connected’, and various other words. Because of this, we also tend to miss out on the meaning of ‘in Him/Christ’ that comes up so often in the New Testament. The meaning is NOT that we are ‘inside’ Him, but that we are joined as one with him.]16 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, [for my name’s sake/for the sake of my glory//using my name].[This promise is NOT about ‘dropping’ or ‘using’ Jesus’ name! Ending a selfish prayer with, “in Jesus’ name” does not transform it into a good prayer. We don’t simply ‘use’ Jesus’ name and cash in on this promise! God can tell the difference when people unselfishly pray for things in the cause of bringing glory to Christ.This must be one of the worst mistakes in the NLT! This translation shows that the translator has been affected by modern Christian culture and did not consider what this really means. But then, I must admit, every translator, including me, falls in this regard from time to time, and that is why it is said in the NIV introduction, “No translation is perfect.”] Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5349383
info_outline
NL-Day195 2 Kings 17-18; Psalm 131; John 14:15-31
07/13/2025
NL-Day195 2 Kings 17-18; Psalm 131; John 14:15-31
2KINGS 17-18:Yesterday we again heard quite a few names of kings, especially on the Israel/Northern side. And this culminated with Tiglath-pileser of Assyria deporting the people of Israel. Because of a heavy bribe, Judah avoided this by becoming a vassal state of Assyria. Actually, this was probably wise on king Ahaz's part. Judah was not always so wise in interpreting the signs of the time. PSALM 131:God’s grace requires that we receive from the Lord, not insisting on our working to gain good standing by ceaselessly trying to earn points with God. We can learn from children. JOHN 14b:In John 14 yesterday, we read one of Jesus’ most important and often quoted statements: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” NLT Translation notes:John 14:20 When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am [joined as one with/in] my Father, and you are [joined as one with/in] me, and I am [joined with/in] you. 22 Judas (not [the] Judas [from the village of Carioth//Iscariot], but the other disciple with that name) said to him, “Lord, why are you going to reveal yourself only to us and not to the world at large?” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5349183
info_outline
NL-Day194 2 Kings 15-16; Psalm 130; John 14:1-21
07/06/2025
NL-Day194 2 Kings 15-16; Psalm 130; John 14:1-21
2KINGS 15-16:Readers and listeners are frequently confused by the names of the kings in yesterday’s reading in 2nd Kings. Judah’ king, Joash, died at the end of chapter 12. Then on the Israel (10 tribes) side, we heard of Jehoahaz's reign, and then the reign of his son, Johoash. He was helped by Elisha’s final prophecy. Also in yesterday’s reading we heard about of the reign of Joash’s son, Amaziah, in Judah. Amaziah was very unwise to insist on war with Israel’s king Jehoash. PSALM 130:This Psalm of Ascent is one of the most beautiful of all the psalms, and an expression of hope for anyone in despair. JOHN 14a:In John 13 we heard of Jesus taking the role of a servant and washing the disciples’ feet. Judas left the upper room, and Peter was told that he would deny knowing Jesus three times. NLT Translation notes:John 14:10 Don’t you believe that I am [joined as one with// in] the Father and the Father is [joined as one with// in] me? The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does his work through me.[This is the same concept that we will see pictured as the vine metaphor in the next chapter!]11 Just believe that I am [joined as one with// in] the Father and the Father is [joined with// in] me. Or at least believe because of the work you have seen me do.13 You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that [I, as ] the Son can bring glory to [my/the] Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!17 He is the Holy Spirit, who [will lead you//leads] into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.20 When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am [joined as one with/in] my Father, and you are [joined as one with/in] me, and I am [joined with/in] you. 22 Judas (not [the] Judas [from the village of Carioth//Iscariot], but the other disciple with that name) said to him, “Lord, why are you going to reveal yourself only to us and not to the world at large?” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5349165
info_outline
NL-Day193 2 Kings 13-14; Psalm 129; John 13:12-38
07/06/2025
NL-Day193 2 Kings 13-14; Psalm 129; John 13:12-38
2KINGS 13-14:Yesterday we heard of Athaliah's seven year reign over Judah, of how Joash was saved from being killed, and of Jehoida's successful plot to end Athaliah's reign. Joash turned out to be sorta good, but disappointing at the end of his reign. And it is interesting to note that the people who worked on restoring the temple evidently had more integrity than the priests. PSALM 129:This is another Psalm of Ascent and another nationalistic psalm. In this year’s readings, in just a few days we will begin hearing the parts of Israel’s history where this psalm writer could have received the scars on his back. (I like how the GNT shows that the scars on the back might be taken figuratively for the whole race, instead of personally for just the writer. But one just listening to a reading of this chapter will probably not pick up on that detail.) In our time, this psalm gives us permission to pray that the Lord’s enemies do not prosper. JOHN 13b:John spends several chapters in the upper room, and this is the first. We hear the most complete account here about Judas, and only here do we find the story of Jesus washing the disciple's feet. This is another time where we see Jesus consciously acting out a parable for us. And because of that event, the interchange with Peter is more poignant, although John takes pity on Peter and does not include details of that conversation that are found elsewhere. NLT Translation notes:John 13:2 It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas[, 0>>//son of Simon Iscariot,] to betray Jesus. [Judas was the son of (a man named) Simon from the village Carioth.]|8 “No,” Peter protested, “you will never ever wash my feet!”Jesus replied, “[PET: If I don't wash your feet, you're no longer My follower.///Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.]”12 After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was [showing you//doing]?17 [You ought to wash each other’s feet.] Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.[Repeating the thing Jesus wants them to do makes the last sentence more understandable. “Doing them” does not mean taking slaves or sending messages.]26 Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon[, the man from Carioth// Iscariot].31 As soon as Judas left the room, Jesus said, “The time has come for [Me] the Son of Man to enter into [my/his] glory, and God will be glorified because of [Me/him].32 And since [my Father, God,/God] receives glory because of [Me, his/the] Son, he will soon [also] give glory to [Me/the Son].36 [0/Simon] Peter asked, “Lord, where are you going?”And Jesus replied, “You can’t go with me now, but you will follow me later.” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5349138
info_outline
NL-Day192 2 Kings 11-12; Psalm 128; John 13:1-17
07/06/2025
NL-Day192 2 Kings 11-12; Psalm 128; John 13:1-17
2KINGS 11-12:Yesterday's story was of Jehu, anointed on Elisha's orders, and who executed the Lord's vengeance on Ahab and his whole family, and even his friends and the worshipers of Baal. However, after that, he still didn't follow the Lord, but continued the idolatry of Israel. PSALM 128:Today’s Song of Ascent has a similar theme about the Lord’s blessings for families as yesterday’s psalm. Unlike what I said about translating the Hebrew word ‘sons’ in Psalm 127, the context of today’s psalm seems more inclusive, so we can easily agree with the NET and other versions in translating that word as ‘children’ here in Psalm 128. JOHN 13a:Jesus’ words often have a double meaning. An example was heard yesterday when He said, “when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.” NLT Translation notes:John 13:2 It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas[, 0>>//son of Simon Iscariot,] to betray Jesus. [Judas was the son of (a man named) Simon from the village Carioth.] 8 “No,” Peter protested, “you will never ever wash my feet!”Jesus replied, “[PET: If I don't wash your feet, you're no longer My follower.///Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.]”12 After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was [showing you//doing]?17 [You ought to wash each other’s feet.] Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.[Repeating the thing Jesus wants them to do makes the last sentence more understandable. “Doing them” does not mean taking slaves or sending messages.]26 Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon[, the man from Carioth// Iscariot].31 As soon as Judas left the room, Jesus said, “The time has come for [Me] the Son of Man to enter into [my/his] glory, and God will be glorified because of [Me/him].32 And since [my Father, God,/God] receives glory because of [Me, his/the] Son, he will soon [also] give glory to [Me/the Son]. 36 [0/Simon] Peter asked, “Lord, where are you going?”And Jesus replied, “You can’t go with me now, but you will follow me later.” Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5348996
info_outline
NL-Day191 2 Kings 9-10; Psalm 127; John 12:20-50
07/06/2025
NL-Day191 2 Kings 9-10; Psalm 127; John 12:20-50
2KINGS 9-10:Yesterday we heard one of my favorite Old Testament stories: The one about the three lepers and the famine in Samaria. Elisha's prophecy was so dramatically fulfilled, and the scoffing officer could be a parable for modern times. Then we heard how the woman from Shunem returned and was blessed a second time. The narrative switched briefly to the kingdom of Judah and Ahaziah's reign. PSALM 127:About ‘children/sons’ in v. 3, NET’s note says this: Some prefer to translate this word with the gender neutral “children,” but “sons” are plainly in view here, as the following verses make clear. Daughters are certainly wonderful additions to a family, but in ancient Israelite culture sons were the “arrows” that gave a man security in his old age, for they could defend the family interests at the city gate, where the legal and economic issues of the community were settled. This psalm would not be considered politically correct in today’s world. Let’s understand it with a historical perspective learn from it. JOHN 12b:Following the raising of Lazarus, the Jewish leaders became even more firm in their plans to kill Jesus. NLT Translation notes:John 12:4 But Judas [, the man from the village of Carioth// Iscariot], the disciple who would soon betray him, said,28 [Rather, I pray,] Father, bring glory to your name.”Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, “I have already brought glory to my name, and I will do so again.” 39 But the people couldn’t believe, for as Isaiah [reported the Lord’s words//also said],40 “[I have//The Lord has] blinded their eyesand hardened their hearts—so that their eyes cannot see,and their hearts cannot understand,and they cannot turn to meand have me heal them.”41 Isaiah[‘s prophecy] was referring to Jesus when he said this, because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah’s glory.42 Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue[s].44 Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you [believe in/trust] me, you are [not just believing in//trusting not only] me, but also God who sent me.47 I will not judge those who hear me but don’t obey me, for I have come to save the world [,//and] not to judge it. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5347264
info_outline
190: Buckling the Belt: Lesson 3 following the Spirit's lead
07/06/2025
190: Buckling the Belt: Lesson 3 following the Spirit's lead
Recorded July 7, 2023 Buckling the Belt of Truth, lesson 3 THEME: following the SPIRIT’s lead I will not read all the verse numbers, nor will I always cite which translation I am quoting from. If I don’t say which translation, it is either NLT or GNT. The complete information is found in the episode notes. One of the mistakes I made in trying to find victory over my evil desires was thinking that the spiritual reality of my death and resurrection with Christ was going to be the key that would give me total victory over sin. It doesn’t work that way. But the reality I find is that the Holy Spirit empowers all the truth about our unity with Christ. The Spirit is actually the Answer to the prayers we made based on the first two lessons for bucking the belt of truth. He is our rescuer from evil desires (our ‘flesh’) which is bent on taking us to spiritual death. He is the power for transformation, the creator of a new creation, the motivator of our hearts. But realizing the role of the Holy Spirit is not like finding a key to anything. He is a person. It would be insulting to His personhood for me to give you steps for using or controlling God’s Spirit. You must get to know Him. The personhood of the Holy Spirit actually made it difficult for me to write this lesson. Let me give an example: In my first draft I wrote the next heading as “How to get the Spirit.” How insulting that must be to Him! And I beg his pardon. He is not a thing we obtain. People do slip sometimes and talk about marriage that way, like, “Where did he get that wife?” or like insensitive advice to a woman, “You need to get a husband.” Gale and I have built our relationship over 51 years, over many tough times, and through the crucible of taking our family to live in a different culture. Yet I still need to keep a close eye on maintaining my relationship with Gale. Now, the tricky thing is, if I were able to go back in time to 1972 to give myself advice, I would not be able to articulate a set of steps for how to keep Gale happy. Living with the Spirit is like that. I can’t tell you very much about how to know Him, while paradoxically, I know He has been my friend. So that next heading is: How do we start a relationship with the Spirit? The answer is incredibly simple. John 7:37-39 GNT On the last and most important day of the festival Jesus stood up and said in a loud voice, “Whoever is thirsty should come to me, and whoever believes in me should drink. As the scripture says, ‘Streams of life-giving water will pour out from his side.’” Jesus said this about the Spirit, which those who believed in him were going to receive. At that time the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not been raised to glory. This agrees with Rev. 22:17 GNT The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come!” Everyone who hears this must also say, “Come!” Come, whoever is thirsty; accept the water of life as a gift, whoever wants it. So the simple answer to how we start a relationship with Him is to come to Him in prayer and ask Him to start his work in your heart. I’ll give pointers about how to pray at the end of this lesson. Cooperate with the Spirit: We must understand that God’s Spirit is the Author of Scripture. Therefore, we can know that He wants to do his work in us in a way that matches what we find in Scripture. The memorizable verses to support this are 2 Peter 1:20-21 (NLT): Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God. Your results may vary: In Eph 4 and Col 3 (by using verbs related to clothing) Paul gives us two metaphors, telling us to take off the clothes of our old life and put on the clean clothes of our new life. This process is directed by the Holy Spirit. My experience leads me to conclude this: There is more to our part in the equation than simply surrendering to the Spirit. The Spirit wants to motivate and help us, but He doesn’t want to do everything for us. We don’t get to be lazy. This is why some believers have stories of amazing overnight changes that happened in their lives when they believed in Jesus, but then afterwards, it seems that all of us find left-over problems in living according to God’s will that only can be conquered with personal effort and spiritual understanding. For me the Spirit immediately changed the way I talked. For others the Spirit gives immediate freedom from anger or various kinds of addictions. But after that, there always seem to be plenty of things left over for us to work on under the patient help of God’s Spirit. Ephesians 4:21-24 NLT Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. What kind of things can be thrown off? Immediately after those verses Paul rapidly lists such life changes as stopping lying, anger, stealing, bitterness, outbursts of rage, and slander. Please know: There is no fakey-ness in ‘putting on’ the new clothes that the Spirit gives. When such changes come welling up from inside you, be brave and allow them to show, like wearing a pair of obviously new jeans. Read the Bible daily and the Spirit will direct you in applying your new wardrobe. Sometimes following the advice of well-meaning friends will lead to frustration. They will want you to change everything all at once. The Holy Spirit is the engine empowering our spiritual transformation. I take that idea from the book of Romans. In chapters 5-7, Paul talks of the victory we have over the power of sin and death, but I find no hint of how that victory can actually be obtained. Then suddenly in chapter 8 Paul starts talking about the Holy Spirit. Here is how Paul comes back to his topic after a long parenthesis in chapter 7: Romans 8:1-3 NLT So now there is no condemnation for those who [*are one with//belong to] Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. Romans 8:4-8 (NLT) He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit. Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God. Paul’s intention is absolutely clear here! Believers can “follow the Spirit’s leading.” Both NLT and GNT use the word ‘controlled’ in verse 5, but I think that word can give the wrong impression. The translators were struggling to express what is mysterious and difficult to grasp. Let me try to express it! The Holy Spirit doesn’t take over complete control of our minds, but when we are clinging to Jesus, the Spirit enables us to know how to think and act. In verse 4, Paul literally says ‘walk according to the Spirit’. This Greek idiom of ‘walking’ means our manner of life. NLT’s translation of ‘following the Spirit’s leading’ is perfect in saying what the Greek means. We aren’t controlled but more subtly directed, being enabled to ‘follow the Spirit’s leading’. My team in Indonesia worked hard to translate those verses in a way that makes sense to our Indonesian readers. Please listen to how our Indonesian translation sounds when translated into English. Romans 8:4-6 (PET) God did that [declared an end to sin’s control over us] so that the right way of life required by God’s Law would be fulfilled in us because of being united with Christ. Now, we are enabled to live obeying the leading of God’s Spirit rather than going back to following our sinful natural desires. Allah melakukan hal itu supaya cara hidup benar yang dituntut oleh Hukum Taurat terpenuhi dalam diri kita karena kita bersatu dengan Kristus. Sekarang, kita dimampukan untuk hidup menaati pimpinan Roh Allah dan tidak lagi mengikuti naluri yang berdosa. Anyone who still follows their sinful natural desires lives to satisfy themself alone. Whereas every person who lives clinging to God’s Spirit is helped by Him to think according to his will. If the direction of our lives is only to satisfy our sinful natural desires, we will end up in destruction. But if [the direction of] our lives is directed by God’s Spirit, we will receive eternal life and feel calm/peace under the protection of God. Setiap orang yang masih mengikuti naluri berdosanya, berarti dia hidup untuk memuaskan diri sendiri saja. Namun, setiap orang yang hidup bergantung pada Roh Allah ditolong-Nya untuk berpikir sesuai dengan kehendak-Nya. Bila tujuan hidup kita hanya untuk memuaskan naluri kita yang berdosa, kita akan berakhir dalam kebinasaan. Tetapi bila [tujuan] hidup kita [dipimpin oleh//dikuasai] Roh Allah, kita akan mendapatkan hidup yang kekal dan merasa tenang dalam perlindungan TUHAN. So, these verses claim that the Spirit can enable us to know how to think and act according to God’s will. Following the outlook/direction of God’s Spirit is what ‘ends sin’s control over us’! (I want that!) But wait! Is what Paul is saying available to only a few super-Christians— like Paul himself— or is it available to all believers? Truth: Yes, this is for you! You (a sincere believer listening to this) have been enabled to live following the Holy Spirit's leading. A basic principle that makes this possible is realizing that we have been united to Christ. (Rom. 8:1 We are truly ‘unified with/in Christ’.) Your part in this is to decide clearly the direction you want for your life (v.6). There must be an intentional change of your mind empowered by the Holy Spirit and prayer. The Greek word for ‘mind’ here is phronema in v6 means ‘thought, purpose, aspirations’. Ask for the Spirit to renew your mind. We must cooperate with the Spirit! Our part #2: In verse 5 translators struggle to express the meaning found in the Greek of ‘living according to the Spirit’ (ESV), or as NET translates it, having our ‘outlook shaped by the Spirit’. I think our part in that is to cling to, or lean on the Holy Spirit (v.5). I dislike the way NLT translates this as ‘letting the Spirit control your mind’. Stating it like that seems to make me more powerful than God’s Spirit. Instead we are the weak party in our collaboration with the Spirit, and that’s why I prefer to use the word ‘cling’. This is supported by Romans 8:26-27 (GNT) which says: In the same way the Spirit also comes to help us, weak as we are. For we do not know how we ought to pray; the Spirit himself pleads with God for us in groans that words cannot express. And God, who sees into our hearts, knows what the thought of the Spirit is; because the Spirit pleads with God on behalf of his people and in accordance with his will. With what Paul just said about the Holy Spirit praying for us, let’s look at John 14:16-20 (NLT), where Jesus says, I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you. No, I will not abandon you as orphans—I will come to you. Soon the world will no longer see me, but you will see me. Since I live, you also will live. When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. The Spirit is our Helper and Advocate. The Greek word translated like that literally means that He comes alongside. The Spirit has 3 functions in this passage in John 14: He leads us into all truth. In his advocate role and just like Paul said, the Spirit intercedes for us. He prays to the Father for us. He gives us confidence in our unity with Jesus. We are not left like orphans. Let’s put that alongside John 16:13-14 (NLT): Jesus told his disciples, When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me. Part of knowing God’s Spirit is to realize that his motive is to bring glory to Jesus. He never seeks glory for himself. It follows then that if we are following his lead, we also will not seek to glorify ourselves. When Jesus mentioned to his disciples how the Holy Spirit would ‘speak’ and ‘tell you about the future’, that has primarily been fulfilled for us in His giving us the Bible. I can’t remember any times Jesus or the Holy Spirit have spoken to me in an audible voice. He nudges me in other ways, often when reading the Bible. When verses jump off the page, pay attention! He uses our consciences to tell us when we have sinned or to warn us not to sin. But, I still believe that the Father, Son, or Holy Spirit still do occasionally speak to people in what they perceive as an audible voice. From a few testimonies I have considered believable, God’s voice or an angel’s voice only come once in a lifetime. It is obviously not the Holy Spirit’s prefered method of communication with us. The Bible is the prefered method! Those who claim that they daily hear the Lord speaking to them are sadly deceived. Mascurading demons are happy to give daily messages. Similarly, my advice is to never seek to be given direction through dreams. How should we pray involving the Holy Spirit? I have mentioned the importance of prayer several times. This makes me think that some listeners might like a few pointers about how to pray. The Holy Spirit does not seek to glorify himself, so the normal direction about praying should work well for us, namely, We pray to God the Father in the name Jesus the Son and through the mediation of the Holy Spirit. Most of the time I address my prayers like that to our Father in heaven. But it is perfectly fine to address prayers to any member of the Trinity. If I happen to be praying about something that reminds me of Jesus, then I will often address my prayer to Him. An example would be realizing that I have a special need today for Jesus to be with me in something facing me. So I find it natural to pray, “Lord Jesus, You promised You would be with us always in Matthew 28, and I need You to be with me today.” Similarly, I pray directly to the Holy Spirit when I am praying something that has to do with the ministries of the Holy Spirit as described in the Bible. As I said above, He leads us into all truth. He is also the author of Scripture. So it is fine to invite the Holy Spirit to help you when you need direction in understand or putting into practice something you've found in the Bible. The Holy Spirit pleads for us directly to the Father. So if I am praying to the Father about some urgent issue, I sometimes ask the Holy Spirit to help me bring my plea powerfully to the Father. Since Paul says we are enabled to be directed by the Holy Spirit (as in Romans 8), then asking Him to remove any communication barriers is a good idea. Ephesians 4:30 says: “Do not bring sorrow (grieve) the Holy Spirit.” He won’t want to direct your thinking/outlook if you have done that. It is certain that He will be pleased if you come to Him and ask for forgiveness. Ephesians 6:18 (GNT) “… Pray on every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For this reason keep alert and never give up; pray always for all God's people.” Therefore it is certainly a good thing to pray to the Holy Spirit asking for Him to lead you in praying, giving you alertness to things He wants you to pray about. Ephesians 6:17 (GNT) Directs us to “accept … the word of God as the sword which the Spirit gives you.” It is therefore a great idea to ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom in how to bring God’s Word into your conversations. Then we can’t forget to ask Him for this one too: Ephesians 5:18 (GNT) “Do not get drunk with wine, which will only ruin you; instead, be filled with the Spirit.” We have run out of time to discuss the gifts that are given by the Spirit. Paul urges us to pray, asking to be given the most useful spiritual gifts. When someone thanks you for the way God is using your gift in your local church, don’t get proud about that. But use that feedback as an encouragement to cling even tighter to the Holy Spirit. Let’s pray. Dear Heavenly Father, Paul says that as a believer in Christ, the power of sin should no longer control our lives. So my listener and I have already been enabled through the truth of your Word to live obeying the leading of the Holy Spirit. Dear Father, please give our minds a new sensitivity to the nudges of your Spirit. O Holy Spirit, help us to realize any ways we have grieved You. Please lead us in asking for your forgiveness. And teach us how to cling to You. Dear Jesus, we pray that we will remember that we are so unified to you that it is as if we died with You on the cross and now have been raised to live a life under new management. Therefore Lord, help us to realize when our minds go back to well-worn pathways that lead to the desires that used to dominate our thoughts. Help us to put our eyes back on You, Lord Jesus. Heavenly Father, I pray for my brother or sister listening to me now, if he/she struggles to believe that the Holy Spirit is in any way active in his/her life. Dear Jesus, please convince my listener that you haven’t left them alone and orphaned. O Holy Spirit, come to my listener and to me. Renew our minds and make us a new creation. Amen. And Gale and I say, “May the Lord bless you ‘real good’.”
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/27404751
info_outline
NL-Day190 2 Kings 7-8; Psalm 126; John 12:1-26
07/06/2025
NL-Day190 2 Kings 7-8; Psalm 126; John 12:1-26
2KINGS 7-8:Yesterday we heard two more chapters containing fascinating miracles performed by Elisha. The story about Gahazi getting the gifts from Naaman, and the vision about the chariots of fire both have interesting spiritual significance to ponder. We come back to the story from chapter 7 where the Aramean army is surrounding Samaria. The famine is severe. The king has sent an executioner to kill Elisha. And then: 2Kings 6:32 NLT Elisha was sitting in his house with the elders of Israel when the king sent a messenger to summon him. But before the messenger arrived, Elisha said to the elders, “A murderer has sent a man to cut off my head. When he arrives, shut the door and keep him out. We will soon hear his master’s steps following him.” 33 While Elisha was still saying this, the messenger arrived. And the king said, “All this misery is from the LORD! Why should I wait for the LORD any longer?” PSALM 126:Laughter, joy, and tears are in this often quoted psalm. JOHN 12a:In yesterday's reading, Jesus worked his biggest miracle so far in the story— the raising of Lazarus, and the Jewish leaders became even firmer in their plans to kill Him. NLT Translation notes:John 12:4 But Judas [, the man from the village of Carioth// Iscariot], the disciple who would soon betray him, said,28 [Rather, I pray,] Father, bring glory to your name.”Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, “I have already brought glory to my name, and I will do so again.” 39 But the people couldn’t believe, for as Isaiah [reported the Lord’s words//also said],40 “[I have//The Lord has] blinded their eyesand hardened their hearts—so that their eyes cannot see,and their hearts cannot understand,and they cannot turn to meand have me heal them.”41 Isaiah[‘s prophecy] was referring to Jesus when he said this, because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah’s glory.42 Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue[s].44 Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you [believe in/trust] me, you are [not just believing in//trusting not only] me, but also God who sent me.47 I will not judge those who hear me but don’t obey me, for I have come to save the world [,//and] not to judge it. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5347221
info_outline
NL-Day189 2 Kings 5-6; Psalm 125; John 11:21-57
07/06/2025
NL-Day189 2 Kings 5-6; Psalm 125; John 11:21-57
2KINGS 5-6:Yesterday we heard of the many miracles done by Elisha, supplying water for three armies on their way to Moab for war, helping the widow of a prophet, blessing the woman from Shunem, purifying Jericho's water, and miraculously transforming food. PSALM 125:The first verse of this psalm is one that our family has sung for years. Gale and I learned this song from a cassette tape that came from a Canadian church called St. Margaret’s, a place we have never been to. At that time (around 1977) we were teachers in Papua New Guinea and our David was two. Those who trust in the Lord are secure! JOHN 11b:Reminding us of what we heard in John 10: Our Shepherd calls us by name. He knows us thoroughly, just like He and the Father know each other. He goes before us and leads us into a rich and satisfying life. He is our great and good Shepherd because He was willing to sacrifice his life for us. NLT Translation notes:26 Everyone who [0//lives in me and] believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?”[Woah! I am surprised that, apparently, the NLT translators didn’t think that just believing was enough! I don’t see any textual variant that could justify this addition. I normally like the NLT. This just goes to show that no translation is perfect.]31 When the people who were at the house consoling Mary saw her leave so hastily, they assumed she was going to Lazarus’s grave to weep [there]. So they followed her [0/there].38 Jesus was still [upset//angry] as he arrived at the tomb, a cave with a stone rolled across its entrance. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5347035
info_outline
NL-Day188 2 Kings 3-4; Psalm 124; John 11:1-26
07/06/2025
NL-Day188 2 Kings 3-4; Psalm 124; John 11:1-26
2KINGS 3-4:Yesterday we heard of the final amazing prophecies of Elijah, and then how he took leave of the prophets and particularly, his successor Elisha. Elisha quickly showed that he was Elijah's successor. PSALM 124:I keep being amazed how people (and particularly those in America) don’t seem to learn anything from the amazing things that are happening in our times. The last verse of this psalm expresses the lesson that I think we should have learned by now. JOHN 11a:Reminding us of what we heard in John 10: Our Shepherd calls us by name. He knows us thoroughly, just like He and the Father know each other. We hear his voice and recognize him. He goes before us and leads us into a rich and satisfying life. He is our great and good Shepherd because He was willing to sacrifice his life for us. NLT/GNT Translation comparison: 2Kings 3:27 NLT So he took his oldest son, who would have been the next king, and sacrificed him as a burnt offering on the wall. As a result, the anger against Israel was great, so they withdrew and returned to their own land.//GNT So he took his oldest son, who was to succeed him as king, and offered him on the city wall as a sacrifice to the god of Moab. The Israelites were terrified and so they drew back from the city and returned to their own country.[The Hebrew for the first phrase of the last sentence can be interpreted in several ways. The NLT makes better sense to me. There would have been anger and indignation on Moab’s side, and revulsion on Israel’s side.] NLT Translation notes:John 11:5 So although Jesus loved Martha, [and loved] Mary, and [loved] Lazarus,26 Everyone who [0//lives in me and] believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?”[Woah! I am surprised that, apparently, the NLT translators didn’t think that just believing was enough! I don’t see any textual variant that would lead to this addition in the translation.]31 When the people who were at the house consoling Mary saw her leave so hastily, they assumed she was going to Lazarus’s grave to weep [there]. So they followed her [0/there]. 38 Jesus was still [upset//angry] as he arrived at the tomb, a cave with a stone rolled across its entrance. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5347019
info_outline
NL-Day187 2 Kings 1-2; Psalm 123; John 10:11-42
06/29/2025
NL-Day187 2 Kings 1-2; Psalm 123; John 10:11-42
2KINGS 1-2:Yesterday we heard stories which show that King Ahab indeed “sold himself to evil,” including the story of Naboth's vineyard. And also we heard of Ahab's friendship with King Jehoshaphat of Judah. Finally we heard how the prophecies against Ahab were fulfilled. PSALM 123:This psalm has an important similarity with Ps. 121 which said, Ps. 121:1 NLT I look up to the mountains— does my help come from there?2 My help comes from the LORD,who made heaven and earth! Today’s psalm tells us how to ‘look’. JOHN 10b:In John 9, with the formerly blind man standing there, Jesus said, 39 NLT “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”40 Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”41 “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see. I think the formerly blind man would have been greatly comforted to find out that the Son of Man was now his shepherd and the gate for the sheep. John 10:10 is a frequently memorized verse because of Jesus’ promise: Life in all its fulness. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5346975
info_outline
NL-Day186 1 Kings 21-22; Psalm 122; John 10:1-21
06/29/2025
NL-Day186 1 Kings 21-22; Psalm 122; John 10:1-21
1KINGS 21-22:What a cruel surprise it must have been for Elijah to bring about such an irrefutable display of God's power before the people, but then to have to flee for his life because of Queen Jezebel! Note that God deigned to speak twice to King Ahab. And the reason was: God wanted it known to Ahab and to us that He is not a territorial God. God also gave amazing, symbolic revelations of Himself in the story of His appearing to Elijah at Mount Sinai. Finally, in yesterday’s reading, Elijah's successor, Elisha, was introduced. PSALM 122:Consider how exciting it would have been to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. And let’s all keep ‘marching to Zion’. JOHN 10a:This is a place where our chapter divisions in our Bibles probably do not serve us well. In the original manuscript by John, there would not be any separation between what Jesus said to the Pharisees to answer their question about spiritual blindness, and this chapter. In fact, in John’s day they didn’t even have spaces between words. So in all likelihood, there was not even a new line to start this teaching. So let’s envision Jesus giving this teaching while the previously blind man and the Pharisees were listening. NLT Translation note:Ps. 122:4 All the tribes of Israel—the LORD’s people— make their pilgrimage here.They come to give thanks to [0//the name of] the LORD, as the law requires of Israel. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5346953
info_outline
NL-Day185 1 Kings 19-20; Psalm 121; John 9
06/29/2025
NL-Day185 1 Kings 19-20; Psalm 121; John 9
1KINGS 19-20:The story we read yesterday in this book is one of the most dramatic in all of Scripture: The time the prophet Elijah confronted King Ahab. Remember that in the New Testament James used this story to encourage us that we are no different than Elijah and that we should pray fervently like him. PSALM 121:This is another psalm that is frequently sung, even today. Often this whole psalm is set to music. As Olsen says, this psalm lifts the fog from our eyes. Re-reading JOHN 9:Remember that in John 8 there was a tense standoff between Jesus and the religious leaders. The people took up stones to kill Jesus. John places this story here to illustrate again the opposition to Jesus. One of the hardest verses to translate is the very last one in this chapter. That is Jesus’ answer when the Pharisees give this incredulous or rebuking response, “Surely you don't mean that we are blind, too?” The Greek can be translated as in literal versions, “If you were blind, you would have no [sin//guilt]... To say someone has no sin, in English, would mean that they are totally sinless, and that is NOT what Jesus was meaning. 41 [based on NLT: Jesus replied, “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty [of still sinning], but you remain guilty because you claim you can see.//GNT Jesus answered, “If you were blind, then you would not [be sinning now//be guilty]; but since you claim that you can see, this means that you are [still guilty of sinning//still guilty].”] NLT Translation note:1Kings 19:10 Elijah replied, “I have zealously served [You,/the] LORD God Almighty. But the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you, torn down your altars, and killed every one of your prophets. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too.”====John 9:28 They [hurled insults at//cursed] him and said, “You are that fellow's disciple; but we are Moses' disciples.34 “You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “[And now you think you are smart enough to teach us!//Are you trying to teach us?]” And they threw him out of the synagogue.37 “You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you [now]!”39 Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment— [to cause the blind to see, and to cause those who think that they can see to become blind.”//to give sight to the blind and to _show_ those who think they see that they are blind.”][The word ‘show’ is not in the Greek, and I do not agree with adding it. Unfortunately, on earth at least, only a percentage are shown that they are spiritually blind. The blind often take their blindness to the grave. That is the danger that Jesus is warning the Pharisees about.]40 Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and [replied/asked], “Are you saying we’re blind?”41 “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty [of still sinning],” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5346144
info_outline
NL-Day184 1 Kings 17-18; Psalm 120; John 9
06/29/2025
NL-Day184 1 Kings 17-18; Psalm 120; John 9
1KINGS 17-18:We've arrived at the narrative of the different kings of Judah (which now includes the smaller tribe of Benjamin) and the kings of Israel (consisting of the 10 other tribes, sometimes called the Northern Kingdom). The kings on Israel’s side changed more rapidly and were 100% bad, while there was a mixed record among the kings of Judah. It will help your understanding to observe the section headings (which I normally do not read), and to try to remember which kingdom is being talked about. Note in yesterday's reading how prophecy was fulfilled again and again. And although Baasha fulfilled the murderous prophecy against the house of Jeroboam, in chapter 16 verse 7, in God’s view the murders he committed were still counted against Baasha as sin. God’s sovereignty and omniscience does not conflict with our own personal responsibility for sin. PSALM 120:Psalm 120 is the first of the Songs of Ascent. The HCSB Study Bible says this about the Songs of Ascent: These psalms were designed for pilgrimage processions to celebrate seasonal feasts in Jerusalem. The hymns contain numerous references to Jerusalem or Zion, the temple, Israel, peace, and adversity. The 15 songs, adapted from ancient hymns heralding the blessings and salvation of Zion, may have been sung on the 15 steps leading up to the temple. JOHN 9:Ever since I was in high school this has been my favorite chapter of the Bible. This dates from the time that I found a tract from the American Bible Society in the rack in the foyer of our church. So in Indonesia also, I have made this chapter into a little book containing our translation. I like giving this chapter out to people I meet. Why? It is not because it answers people’s questions. It is because this chapter makes people ask the most important questions. NLT Translation notes:John 9:22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from [all] the synagogue[s].23 That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”26 “But what did he do [to you]?” they asked. “How did he heal you?”28 Then they [hurled insults at//cursed] him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses!33 If this man were not from God, he couldn’t [do anything like this!//have done it.]”34 “You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “[And now you think you are smart enough to teach us!//Are you trying to teach us?]” And they threw him out of the synagogue.37 “You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you [now]!”39 Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment— [to cause the blind to see, and to cause those who think that they can see to become blind.”//to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”][The word ‘show’ is not in the Greek, and I do not agree with adding it. Unfortunately, on earth at least, only a percentage are shown that they are spiritually blind. The blind often take their blindness to the grave. That is the danger that Jesus is warning the Pharisees about.]40 Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and [replied/asked], “Are you saying we’re blind?”41 “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5343934
info_outline
NL-Day183 1 Kings 15-16; Psalm 119:161-176; John 8:28-59
06/29/2025
NL-Day183 1 Kings 15-16; Psalm 119:161-176; John 8:28-59
1KINGS 15-16:I think yesterday's story of the ‘man of God from Judah’ and the ‘old prophet from Bethel’ to be one of the most fascinating in the Bible. Prophets who lie will certainly be judged harshly by God! And we will see in 2nd Kings that the prophecy of the unnamed man of God from Judah was completely fulfilled. Also in yesterday’s reading, we heard Ahijah's prophecy against Jeroboam. We also heard of the end of the reign of Rehoboam, Solomon's son. And do you think that Shishak took the ark of the covenant to Egypt? PSALM 119:161-176:This our last reading in this Psalm. I marked the last two verses from yesterday’s reading: Ps. 119:159 See how I love your instructions, Lord.Your love never changes, so save me!160 GNT The heart of your law is truth,and all your righteous judgments are eternal.//NLT The very essence of your words is truth;all your just regulations will stand forever. JOHN 8b:The story of the woman caught in adultery shows so many things: Jesus' authority, his wisdom in defeating the Pharisees, his mercy, and that being forgiven does not give one license to continue in sin. Yesterday we also read one of Jesus' seven great ‘I am’ statements found in this Gospel: “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” NLT Translation notes:John 8:9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left [[0//in the middle of the crowd] with the woman.[This was new to me today! This is the first time I have noticed that perhaps not everyone left (as I have seen in the movies), but just the accusers. This makes good sense, actually. According to the grammar of Greek, I believe that the previous speakers (the Pharisees) would be the logical subject of ‘hearing this’.]28 So Jesus said, “[I am the Son of Man, and] When you have lifted [Me] up [0//the Son of Man] on the cross, then you will understand that I AM he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me.43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even [listen to//hear me! Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5343849
info_outline
NL-Day182 1 Kings 13-14; Psalm 119:145-160; John 8:1-30
06/29/2025
NL-Day182 1 Kings 13-14; Psalm 119:145-160; John 8:1-30
1KINGS 13-14:Solomon was the wisest of men. So how could he make such stupid choices?! Part of the answer is the corruption caused when one has too much power. And there is something truly sticky about sexual sin. The Lord’s judgment is evident in what happened with the division of the country, and what happened in the northern kingdom. Note also how the people Judah followed all the bad parts of Solomon’s example, which again will lead to judgment. PSALM 119:145-160:I like the last three verses of yesterday’s reading: Ps. 119:142 Your righteousness will last forever,and your law is always true.143 I am filled with trouble and anxiety,but your commandments bring me joy.144 Your instructions are always just;give me understanding, and I shall live. JOHN 8a:The temple guards were ordered to arrest Jesus, but when they came back empty handed they simply said, “We have never heard anyone speak like this.” NLT Translation notes:1Kings 13:15 Then [the old prophet//he] said to the man of God, “Come home with me and eat some food.”29 So the [old] prophet laid the body of the man of God on the donkey and took it back to the town to mourn over him and bury him. 31 Afterward the [old] prophet said to his sons, “When I die, bury me in the grave where the man of God is buried. Lay my bones beside his bones.====John 8:9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left [[0//in the middle of the crowd] with the woman.[This was new to me today! This is the first time I have noticed that perhaps not everyone left (as I have seen in the movies), but just the accusers. This makes good sense, actually. According to the grammar of Greek, I believe that the previous speakers (the Pharisees) would be the logical subject of ‘hearing this’.]28 So Jesus said, “[I am the Son of Man, and] When you have lifted [Me] up [0//the Son of Man] on the cross, then you will understand that I AM he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me.43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even [listen to//hear me! Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5343831
info_outline
NL-Day181 1 Kings 11-12; Psalm 119:129-144; John 7:25-53
06/29/2025
NL-Day181 1 Kings 11-12; Psalm 119:129-144; John 7:25-53
1KINGS 11-12:Yesterday we heard interesting glimpses of Solomon's international relations and commerce. Notably, the queen of Sheba came to listen to Solomon's wisdom and to ask questions of him. PSALM 119:129-144:How precious the Word of God is to us! A favorite verse from yesterday’s portion is verse 127: “I love your commands more than gold, more than the finest gold. JOHN 7b:We left the story in John 7 yesterday with Jesus already having some hot exchanges with the people at the Festival of Shelters. Today we will hear Jesus shouting to the crowds at the festival, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” It is likely that Jesus waited for the climax of the festival to give that message— when water was poured out before the Lord. NLT Translation note:John 7:33 But Jesus told [the crowd//them], “I will be with you only a little longer. Then I will return to the one who sent me. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5342505
info_outline
NL-Day180 1 Kings 9-10; Psalm 119:113-128; John 7:1-24
06/22/2025
NL-Day180 1 Kings 9-10; Psalm 119:113-128; John 7:1-24
1KINGS 9-10:The temple was completed! And yesterday we heard Solomon’s very wise prayer asking God to fulfill his promises and help the people of Israel. In his prayer, he recognized that the people of Israel would not be able to remain faithful to the Lord, but that they would sin and then need to repent. Solomon asked God to forgive and to hear the people in situations of sin and desperation because of the Lord's punishment upon them. PSALM 119:113-128:Yesterday we read one of the frequently memorized verses from this psalm: Ps. 119:105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feetand a light for my path. JOHN 7a:I hope you noticed the deep meaning in John 6:56 and the application which Jesus’ listeners could not understand— that is to the Lord's Supper. Jesus says, “Anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains [joined to//united with//in] me, and I [remain joined to//united with//in] him.” (NLT) This is the same meaning of ‘in Him’ that we will see in John chapter 15. And Jesus also said, 58 I am the true bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will not die as your ancestors did (even though they ate the manna) but [anyone who eats this bread] will live forever.” And Peter made one of his best and most quotable statements when Jesus asked the twelve if they also would leave: 68 … Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. 69 We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.” NLT Translation note:John 7:33 But Jesus told [the crowd//them], “I will be with you only a little longer. Then I will return to the one who sent me. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
/episode/index/show/dailybiblereading/id/5341012