Podcast Summary: Day 66 - Forbidden Forms of Worship (2025)

Podcast: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Episode Title: Day 66: Forbidden Forms of Worship
Release Date: March 7, 2025
Duration: 20-25 minutes
Scripture Readings: Numbers 17, Deuteronomy 17 & 18, Psalm 98
Bible Translation: Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition

Introduction

In Day 66 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the themes of authority, proper worship, and the repercussions of rebellion within the Israelite community. Drawing from Numbers 17, Deuteronomy 17 & 18, and Psalm 98, Fr. Mike offers a comprehensive exploration of how these scriptures reveal God's expectations and the unfolding narrative of salvation history.

Scripture Readings

Numbers 17: The Blossoming of Aaron's Rod

Starting with Numbers 17, Fr. Mike reads the account of Aaron's rod miraculously blossoming, a divine affirmation of Aaron's priestly authority amidst the Israelites' murmuring and rebellion. This event serves as a clear sign to establish Aaron and the tribe of Levi's exclusive role in priestly duties.

“[00:XX] Fr. Mike Schmitz: 'For there shall be one rod for the head of each father's house. Then you shall deposit them in the tent of meeting before the covenant... And behold the rod of Aaron. For the house of Levi had sprouted, and put forth buds, and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds.'”
(Numbers 17:1-8)

Deuteronomy 17: Legal and Royal Authority

Moving to Deuteronomy 17, the discussion centers on maintaining justice and proper worship. Fr. Mike highlights the stringent measures against idolatry and the establishment of a fair legal system to prevent may makes right scenarios.

“[XX:XX] Fr. Mike Schmitz: 'You shall not turn aside from the verdict which they declare to you, either to the right hand or to the left... so that you shall purge the evil from Israel.'”
(Deuteronomy 17:7-8)

He emphasizes the necessity of two or three witnesses to establish guilt, ensuring that justice is not swayed by personal vendettas or unverified claims.

Deuteronomy 18: Prohibitions and Prophecy

In Deuteronomy 18, Fr. Mike discusses the abominable practices forbidden by God, such as child sacrifice and various forms of sorcery. He underscores the importance of adhering to true worship and the dire consequences of deviating from God's commandments.

“[XX:XX] Fr. Mike Schmitz: 'When you come into the land which the Lord your God gives you, you shall not learn to follow the abominable practices of those nations... Whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.'”
(Deuteronomy 18:10-12)

Furthermore, Fr. Mike explores the prophecy of a future prophet like Moses, which Christians understand as a foretelling of Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of this divine promise.

“[XX:XX] Fr. Mike Schmitz: 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brethren... But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in my name... that same prophet shall die.'”
(Deuteronomy 18:15-22)

Psalm 98: A Call to Praise

Concluding the readings, Psalm 98 is presented as a jubilant call to worship and recognize God's righteous judgment.

“[XX:XX] Fr. Mike Schmitz: 'O sing to the Lord a new song. For he has done marvelous things... Let the hills sing for joy together before the Lord.'”
(Psalm 98:1-6)

Reflections and Insights

Rebellion and Divine Authority (Numbers 17)

Fr. Mike reflects on the recurring theme of rebellion among the Israelites and how God's intervention through Aaron's blossoming rod was a strategic move to quell dissent and affirm divine authority. This act not only established the priestly lineage but also served as a tangible sign of God's choice and favor.

“...it's only going to be from the family of Aaron of the tribe of Levi. And so that's our shortest chapter in Numbers 17. Hopefully, that will subdue the people, and hopefully, they will just accept the authority that God has given them.”
(Numbers 17 Reflection)

Maintaining Purity in Worship (Deuteronomy 17)

Addressing Deuteronomy 17, Fr. Mike underscores the importance of maintaining purity in worship by prohibiting defective sacrifices and idolatrous practices. He articulates how these laws were foundational in transitioning Israel from a loosely organized group to a nation governed by divine law.

“...we give God our best. And that's what we're called to do... the justice of God is so clear here because it's spelled out in the law.”
(Deuteronomy 17 Reflection)

Limitations of Royal Authority

Fr. Mike discusses the prescribed limitations on royal authority, such as restrictions on accumulating wealth, horses, and multiple wives. He draws parallels between these ancient instructions and the historical actions of kings like Solomon, whose disobedience led to significant repercussions.

“...Solomon turns away from the Lord, his God. Now, the last very last note... the prophet like Moses, which is Jesus... it's his power, his role, his ability that we share.”
(Limitations of Royal Authority Reflection)

Prohibition of Abominable Practices and the Prophecy of a Messiah (Deuteronomy 18)

In exploring Deuteronomy 18, Fr. Mike emphasizes the grave nature of forbidden practices and the assurance of a future prophet who would guide the people. He connects this prophecy to Jesus Christ, highlighting how Jesus embodies the role of the ultimate prophet, prophet, priest, and king.

“Ultimately, that prophet like Moses, is our Lord Jesus... Jesus Christ is the final prophet that leads into a nation of prophets.”
(Deuteronomy 18 Reflection)

Encouragement and Community

Fr. Mike closes with heartfelt encouragement, emphasizing the importance of community, mutual support, and collective prayer in one's spiritual journey.

“You are not alone on this. We need to encourage each other and walk with each other and lift each other up.”
(Closing Remarks)

Prayer

The episode concludes with a guided prayer inspired by Psalm 98, where Fr. Mike leads listeners in praising God and seeking His assistance in living out the teachings of Scripture.

“...Lord, help us to see your wisdom in your word and to let it transform our minds and our hearts. And we give you thanks because you are good and you do good because you are our Father and we are your children.”
(Prayer Segment)

Conclusion

Day 66 of "The Bible in a Year" offers a profound examination of worship, authority, and prophetic fulfillment. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully connects ancient scriptures to contemporary faith, encouraging listeners to uphold divine commandments, recognize God's authority, and anticipate the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus Christ. As Fr. Mike states:

“...we are not alone on this. We need to encourage each other and walk with each other and lift each other up.”
(Conclusion)

Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of how the Biblical narrative weaves through issues of leadership, worship, and divine justice, all of which continue to resonate in their daily lives today.

Subscribe to "The Bible in a Year" podcast to continue your journey through Scripture with insightful reflections and guided prayers from Fr. Mike Schmitz.