Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Episode: Day 364: Christ's Sacrifice Once for All
Date: December 30, 2025
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz (Ascension)
Main Readings: Revelation 18-20, Hebrews 9-10, Proverbs 31:26-29

Episode Overview

In this penultimate episode of The Bible in a Year, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners through key sections of Revelation (the fall of Babylon, rejoicing in Heaven, and the final judgment), pivotal chapters in Hebrews on Christ’s unique sacrifice, and a brief passage in Proverbs honoring wisdom. The central theme is the “once for all” sacrifice of Jesus, fulfilling the Old Covenant and opening eternity to those who persevere in faith. Fr. Mike offers both historical context and a passionate call for personal faithfulness and hope.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Revelation: The Fall of Babylon and Final Judgment

• Babylon in Revelation 18

  • Babylon's destruction is described in language evoking Old Testament prophetic oracles, especially Jeremiah (50-51).
  • The fall of Babylon symbolizes more than a city—potentially both Rome and Jerusalem, but also personal sin and societal corruption.
  • Fr. Mike references a key patristic interpretation:

    "St. Caesarius of Arles once said...Babylon and the harlot whose smoke goes up forever are none other than the lustful, the adulterous, and the arrogant...Babylon can be in our hearts." (31:25)

  • The judgment of Babylon warns both ancient peoples and listeners today to avoid unfaithfulness and immorality.

• Rome or Jerusalem?

  • Fr. Mike notes scholarly debate: Babylon could symbolize the persecuting Roman Empire or the unfaithful city of Jerusalem.
  • Ultimately, Revelation’s message is both historical and existential: “Am I being faithful?”

• Rejoicing in Heaven (Revelation 19)

  • The host highlights the celebration of God’s vindication and the “marriage supper of the Lamb.”
  • Fr. Mike’s reflection:

    "You want to be among those people who are able to praise the Lord...hallelujah literally means praise the Lord." (34:01)

• The Millennial Reign and Final Defeat of Evil (Revelation 20)

  • Satan is bound for 1,000 years—symbolizing a period of Christ’s reign and the vindication of martyrs.
  • All the dead are ultimately resurrected and judged.
  • Memorable quote:

    "You’re getting your body back. That is the ancient Christian belief...whether for glory or for shame, everyone gets their body back." (36:42)

  • Judgment is according to deeds:

    "Our decisions don’t just echo in time, they also echo in eternity." (38:05)

2. Hebrews 9-10: Christ's Sacrifice Once for All

• Contrast with Old Covenant

  • Fr. Mike outlines the old temple system: priests offered repeated sacrifices which could not truly cleanse sin.
  • Key Hebrews passage:

    "...he entered once for all into the holy place, taking not the blood of goats and calves, but his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption." (Heb 9:12, quoted at 39:51)

  • Christ’s one offering ends the need for animal sacrifice.

• The Meaning of the Ascension

  • Often overlooked, the Ascension is pivotal:

    "He wasn’t just leaving. What was he doing? He was entering into the sanctuary. He was entering into heaven with the sacrifice of himself presented before God." (41:40)

  • As High Priest, Jesus enters the true Holy of Holies—Heaven itself—bringing the one, perfect sacrifice.

• Forgiveness and a New Covenant

  • Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient for all; repeated rituals are no longer needed.
  • Hopeful encouragement:

    "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful." (Heb 10:23, 44:25)

  • Listeners are exhorted to perseverance and faithful community:

    "Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together..." (Heb 10:24-25, 44:43)

• Judgment & Assurance

  • Fr. Mike soberly notes the “fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” for those who reject the gift (46:01), but also points to the enduring hope for those who endure in faith.

3. Proverbs 31:26-29: The Praise of Wisdom

• Fr. Mike reads the classic depiction of the wise woman—a fitting close to the Proverbs readings—summarizing the value of wisdom, kindness, diligence, and family honor.

Memorable Quotes & Moments

• “In the resurrection, you get your body back...our decisions make a difference. They don’t just echo in time; they also echo in eternity.” (36:42; 38:05)
• “But when Christ appeared as high priest...he entered once for all into the holy place, not taking the blood of goats and calves, but his own blood.” (Heb 9:11-12, 39:51)
• On the Ascension:
  “He was entering into heaven with the sacrifice of himself...just like the priest would go into the holy of holies. Jesus Christ, the great high priest, entered into heaven; he brought a sacrifice that is unlimited. His one sacrifice, once for all.” (41:28)
• “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” (Heb 10:23, 44:25)
• Closing encouragement:
  “We can continue to walk with each other...I am praying for you. Please pray for me.” (47:30)

Notable Timestamps

• Babylon’s fall and meaning: 31:25 – 35:30
• Personal faithfulness and God’s judgment: 35:05 – 38:55
• Hebrews and the singular, eternal sacrifice of Christ: 39:51 – 44:01
• The reality and meaning of the Ascension: 41:28 – 42:30
• Encouragement to perseverance and hope: 44:20 – 47:01

Tone and Language

Fr. Mike’s tone is pastoral, passionate, and encouraging. He balances awe at God’s mercy and justice with practical exhortations. His reflections are accessible, weaving together deep tradition, scriptural exegesis, and a personal touch.

Conclusion

This episode powerfully relates the cosmic significance of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection with personal responsibility and hope for every listener. Fr. Mike invites all to reflect on their faithfulness, trust in Jesus’ unique offering, and persevere in the journey of salvation, which continues beyond the podcast.

“I am praying for you. Please pray for me. My name is Father Mike. I cannot wait to see you tomorrow. God bless.” (47:30)