The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Episode: Introduction to the Exile (with Jeff Cavins) Release Date: July 3, 2025
Introduction
In this pivotal episode, Father Mike Schmitz and Jeff Cavins delve into the significant period of Exile within the Bible timeline. Introducing listeners to the complexities and profound theological implications of this era, the conversation sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of Israel's history and its continued relevance today.
Historical Context of the Exile
Northern Kingdom's Exile by Assyria
Father Mike opens the discussion by explaining the transition from the Divided Kingdom to the Period of Exile, highlighting the impact on the northern ten tribes of Israel. Jeff Cavins humorously likens his role to that of a Sherpa guiding climbers, emphasizing his supportive position in elucidating the timeline.
At [02:24], Jeff describes the Assyrian conquest of the northern kingdom:
“The Assyrians are really a tough group of people... they’re going to come down and they’re literally going to wipe out the north.”
This brutal takeover led to the scattering and assimilation of the northern tribes, giving rise to the Samaritans—a significant theological group that would later play a role in the New Testament narratives.
Southern Kingdom's Exile by Babylon
Transitioning to the southern kingdom, Jeff outlines the rise of the Babylonians under Nebuchadnezzar, who succeeded the Assyrians as the dominant world power. The conversation underscores the three waves of Babylonian exile:
- 605 BC: The first wave, including Daniel, marks the beginning of significant prophetic activity during exile.
- 597 BC: The second wave sees figures like Ezekiel and Baruch taken into captivity.
- 587 BC: The final wave culminates in the destruction of the Solomon Temple, a moment of profound national tragedy.
“At [07:28], Jeff explains:
“The Babylonians came into the south and they took away all of the talented people, all the gifted people, the rich people, and they left everything else behind.”
The Role of Prophets During Exile
The episode emphasizes the critical role of prophets during this tumultuous period. Jeff and Father Mike discuss how prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel served as God’s mouthpieces, urging the people to repent and return to Him.
At [19:29], Jeff defines the essence of a prophet:
“A prophet is somebody who goes out and reminds the People, what God has said.”
This reminder was not merely about predicting future events but about steering the nation back to faithfulness amidst widespread disobedience and corruption.
Theological Themes
Exile as a Spiritual Condition
Father Mike articulates a profound understanding of exile as not just a physical displacement but as a reflection of Israel's spiritual state. He connects this to contemporary experiences, suggesting that modern-day exiles can mirror the Israelites' separation from God.
At [13:39], Jeff ties the theme back to the broader biblical narrative:
“The recurring theme all the way from the beginning of the Bible with the Garden of Eden, all the way to Jesus, which is the theme of exile and return.”
This cyclical theme underscores the continuous journey of humanity's relationship with the divine, marked by periods of separation and eventual restoration.
Exile and Return in Salvation History
The hosts discuss how the exiles and subsequent returns are integral to the salvation history outlined in the Bible. Jeff highlights the promise of restoration, reinforcing that exile serves as a means to bring Israel back into a covenant relationship with God.
Application to Contemporary Life
Personal Reflection: Exile and Restoration
Father Mike encourages listeners to introspectively assess their own lives, likening personal struggles and periods of separation from God to the biblical concept of exile. He prompts questions about whether one's current state is truly fulfilling or a form of spiritual isolation.
At [17:36], Jeff relates this to the Probiotic Son parable:
“The prodigal son got to that point where he was far away from his father... he turned around and started to return to his father.”
This analogy serves as a call for personal repentance and a return to spiritual wholeness.
Reader's Call to Return to God
Both speakers emphasize the necessity of heeding the prophets' messages today, drawing parallels between ancient Israel and modern believers. They advocate for a deep, personal engagement with scripture as a means to rekindle one's relationship with God.
As Jeff aptly puts it at [24:21]:
“Request God to give you that hunger and that love that you once had... Ask God to do it again in your life and to bring you back to not just the same place, but even a better place.”
Notable Quotes
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Jeff Cavins [02:24]: “The Assyrians are really a tough group of people... they’re going to come down and they’re literally going to wipe out the north.”
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Father Mike Schmitz [11:59]: “Understanding exile, which is God's bringing them to a physical place that is representative of their spiritual reality already.”
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Jeff Cavins [13:39]: “The recurring theme all the way from the beginning of the Bible with the Garden of Eden, all the way to Jesus, which is the theme of exile and return.”
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Jeff Cavins [24:21]: “Ask God to do it again in your life and to bring you back to not just the same place, but even a better place.”
Conclusion
Father Mike Schmitz and Jeff Cavins conclude the episode with a heartfelt prayer, urging listeners to seek a deeper love for God during this period of Exile. They express gratitude for the community's commitment and encourage ongoing mutual prayer and support as they embark on this transformative journey through scripture.
As Father Mike poignantly states:
“Pray that he puts that fire into our hearts the fire of love for him and maybe a love that we've never had ever had before... that he can speak to our hearts in a way that he's never spoken before.”
This episode serves as both an informative and inspirational guide, inviting listeners to explore the profound depths of the Exile period and its lasting impact on faith and personal spirituality.