The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Episode: Processing…

Release Date: November 19, 2024
Duration: 20-25 minutes

Overview

In this episode of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into Acts of the Apostles (Chapter 3), St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans (Chapters 4 and 5), and Proverbs 27:1-3. Utilizing the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, Fr. Mike provides insightful commentary, reflection, and guided prayer to help listeners understand the context and significance of these scriptures within the broader narrative of salvation history.

Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 3

Key Events:

• Peter and John Heal a Lame Beggar:
  Fr. Mike recounts the miraculous healing performed by Peter in the name of Jesus Christ, highlighting the man's immediate transformation and public praise of God.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'Peter directs his gaze at him with John and said, look at us... In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk.'"

• Peter’s Address to the Crowd:
  Peter confronts the crowd, emphasizing that the miracle was performed not by their own power but through Jesus Christ. He calls for repentance and recognition of Jesus as the Messiah.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'Why do you marvel at this, or why do you stare at us as though by our own power or piety we have made this man walk?'"

Reflections: Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of miracles accompanying the proclamation of Jesus Christ. He explains that such signs validate the message of the Gospel and demonstrate God's active role in the lives of believers. The healing of the lame beggar serves as a tangible manifestation of faith and the transformative power of Jesus.

St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans, Chapters 4 and 5

Chapter 4: The Example of Abraham’s Faith

• Justification by Faith:
  Fr. Mike highlights St. Paul’s argument that Abraham was justified by faith before circumcision, illustrating that righteousness comes through belief in God rather than adherence to the law.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness.'"

• Universal Promise:
  Paul extends the promise of righteousness to all who share Abraham’s faith, both circumcised and uncircumcised, emphasizing that the covenant is based on faith, not merely on physical signs.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'God’s promise revealed through faith... for he is the father of us all.'"

Chapter 5: Results of Justification

• Peace with God:
  Fr. Mike reflects on the peace and reconciliation believers have with God through Jesus Christ, transforming enmity into friendship.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.'"

• Suffering and Hope:
  He discusses how suffering leads to endurance, character, and ultimately hope, which is anchored in God’s love poured into believers’ hearts through the Holy Spirit.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.'"

• Christ’s Sacrifice:
  Fr. Mike passionately explains the significance of Christ dying for sinners, underscoring God’s immense love and the transformative power of Jesus’ obedience versus Adam’s disobedience.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us... How much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.'"

Reflections: Fr. Mike emphasizes the transformative nature of justification by faith, highlighting how it brings peace with God and instills hope despite suffering. He draws parallels between Adam and Christ, illustrating the redemptive power of Jesus’ obedience and sacrifice. This section serves as a culmination of the salvation narrative, showcasing the fulfillment of Old Testament promises through Christ.

Proverbs 27:1-3

Scripture Reading:

• Verses 1-3:
  Fr. Mike reads and reflects on these verses, which caution against boasting about the future and emphasize humility and wisdom in interactions.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.'"

Reflection and Guided Prayer:

• Application of Proverbs:
  He connects the wisdom of Proverbs to everyday life, encouraging listeners to live with humility and trust in God’s plans rather than relying solely on their own understanding.
• Prayer:
  Fr. Mike leads a heartfelt prayer, expressing gratitude for God’s mercies, grace, and relentless love. He emphasizes receiving and choosing God’s love and invites listeners to embrace their identity as beloved children of God.
  Notable Quote:
  "[00:XX] Father Mike Schmitz: 'Help us to choose you. Help us to receive your love no matter what.'"

Key Insights and Takeaways

• The Continuity of Scripture:
  Fr. Mike underscores that the New Testament fulfills the Old Testament promises, debunking any notions that the Old Covenant is obsolete. He highlights the importance of understanding Jesus as the culmination of salvation history.

• Faith Over Works:
  Drawing from Romans, he reinforces that righteousness is achieved through faith in God’s promises, not merely through adherence to the law or physical signs like circumcision.

• Transformative Power of Suffering:
  The episode illustrates how suffering, when approached with faith, leads to personal growth and deeper hope grounded in God’s steadfast love.

• Miracles as Signs of Faith:
  The healing in Acts serves as a reminder that miracles accompany the proclamation of faith, validating the message of Jesus and showcasing God’s active presence in believers’ lives.

• Embracing God’s Love:
  Fr. Mike passionately conveys the message of God’s unconditional love, urging listeners to internalize their worth and identity in Him.

Conclusion

This episode of "The Bible in a Year" offers a profound exploration of key New Testament passages, seamlessly weaving scriptural exegesis with practical reflections. Fr. Mike Schmitz encourages listeners to deepen their understanding of Scripture, embrace their faith, and recognize the transformative love of God in their lives. Through detailed analysis and heartfelt prayer, the episode serves as both an educational and spiritual guide for those journeying through the Bible.

Stay Connected:
To continue your journey through the Bible with Fr. Mike Schmitz, subscribe to the podcast on your preferred platform and visit Ascension Press for additional resources and reading plans.