The Divided House

Summary

The Jesus Podcast: "The Divided House" – Episode Summary

Release Date: June 9, 2025

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Introduction

In "The Divided House," the latest episode of The Jesus Podcast by Pray.com, listeners are immersed in a dramatic reenactment of a pivotal moment in early Christian history. This episode skillfully blends cinematic storytelling with theological insights, offering a vivid portrayal of Saul of Tarsus' encounter with the burgeoning Christian movement. Through rich narrative and engaging dialogues, the episode explores themes of faith, power, and transformation, setting the stage for Saul's eventual conversion.

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Saul's Call Back to Jerusalem

The episode opens with Saul of Tarsus, an ambitious Pharisee, receiving a summons from the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Saul, portrayed as a dedicated Pharisee eager to ascend within the religious hierarchy, is informed by his servant, Yoel, about the pressing matter at hand.

Yoel (02:36): "Rabbi Saul, it is good to see you again. I have a message from Rabbi Gamaliel, one I think you would want to hear as soon as possible."

Saul's initial excitement is palpable as he anticipates influencing the Sanhedrin's decisions against the new sect known as the People of the Way.

Saul of Tarsus (03:45): "This is excellent news, Yoel. Remain here for the night and then return with my reply tomorrow morning. I will let Gamaliel know that I plan to leave as soon as possible."

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The Confrontation: Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin

Upon arriving at the opulent Hall of Polished Stones, Saul witnesses a tense confrontation between the Sanhedrin and two fervent apostles, Peter and John. The scene is thick with tension as the high priest, Ananias, vehemently reprimands the apostles for preaching in the name of Jesus.

Ananias (10:28): "Did we not strictly command you not to teach in that man's name? Now look what you've done. Jerusalem is being corrupted with your doctrine. Cease this now or pay the price."

Peter responds with unwavering confidence, challenging the Sanhedrin's authority and affirming the resurrection of Jesus.

Peter (10:39): "We speak for God. No. You murdered God. The God of our fathers came to us and you murdered him by hanging him on a cross."

Peter's bold declaration not only defies the council but also highlights the profound impact of Jesus' resurrection on his followers.

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Gamaliel's Intervention

As tensions escalate, Gamaliel, a respected elder of the Sanhedrin, steps in to provide a measured perspective. Drawing from historical precedents, Gamaliel advises caution in dealing with the new movement.

Gamaliel (14:22): "Men of Israel, we must be careful with how we proceed. Take heed on how you treat them, for there's still a shred of possibility. This movement is of the Lord."

He references figures like Theudas and Judas of Galilee, who led failed movements, suggesting that the current apostles might either falter like their predecessors or be sustained by divine intervention.

Gamaliel (14:43): "Movement tend to die with their leaders. But when a movement is from the Lord, it won't be thwarted, no matter how hard we try."

Gamaliel's wisdom temporarily halts the council's aggressive stance, introducing a moment of introspection among the Pharisees and Sadducees.

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The Aftermath: Saul's Reaction

Despite Gamaliel's counsel, the pressure within the Sanhedrin mounts to suppress the apostles. The apostles are brutally beaten, yet their resilience and unwavering faith leave a lasting impression on Saul.

Saul of Tarsus (18:58): "I have been beaten many times in my life, John, but this is the first time I am pleased by it."

Saul's perplexity and growing contempt are evident as he observes the apostles' steadfastness. Their ability to remain joyful and undeterred despite severe punishment challenges Saul's own convictions and ignites a righteous anger within him.

Narrator (19:13): "Quiet contempt began to already settle in Saul's heart. His predisposition to righteous rage flared."

This internal conflict marks the beginning of Saul's transformation, hinting at the profound changes to come.

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Host Reflections and Insights

The Podcast Host provides a reflective commentary, emphasizing the indomitable nature of the gospel amidst societal chaos and persecution. Drawing parallels between the apostles' unwavering faith and contemporary challenges, the host reinforces the message that the gospel's momentum is unstoppable.

Podcast Host (22:01): "The gospel is inevitable and the gospel is indestructible... Nothing can thwart the momentum of people passionate about Christ."

Highlighting Saul's rigid ideology, the host foreshadows his eventual conversion, suggesting that even the most unmovable hearts can be transformed by divine intervention.

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Conclusion

"The Divided House" masterfully captures a critical juncture in Christian history, showcasing Saul of Tarsus' initial confrontation with the early church. Through dramatic storytelling and insightful commentary, the episode delves deep into the struggles between established religious authority and the emerging Christian faith. As Saul grapples with his prejudices and observes the unwavering faith of Peter and John, listeners are invited to ponder the transformative power of belief and the enduring legacy of Jesus Christ.

This episode not only entertains but also enriches the listener's understanding of the complexities and fervor surrounding the birth of the church, setting the stage for Saul's eventual journey from persecutor to apostle.

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Notable Quotes:

• Yoel (02:36): "Rabbi Saul, it is good to see you again. I have a message from Rabbi Gamaliel..."

• Peter (10:39): "We speak for God... you murdered him by hanging him on a cross."

• Gamaliel (14:43): "Movements tend to die with their leaders. But when a movement is from the Lord, it won't be thwarted..."

• Podcast Host (22:01): "The gospel is inevitable and the gospel is indestructible..."

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For those who haven't listened yet, "The Divided House" offers a compelling glimpse into the early challenges faced by the nascent Christian community and the pivotal moments that shaped its destiny. Subscribe to The Jesus Podcast on your preferred platform to join this transformative journey.

Transcript

[Narrator]

God exalted him at his right hand as leader and Savior to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. Acts 5:31 Gracious Lord, we thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice and for the forgiveness you freely offer. You are our prince and Savior, and we are humbled by your mercy. Lead us to true repentance. Turn our hearts away from sin and towards your righteousness. Empower us to live in the freedom of your grace, knowing that through you we are forgiven and made new. Help us to share this good news with others that they too may know the joy of salvation and the hope found in you. In your mighty name we pray. Amen. Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast. Remain here for another dramatized story inspired by the Book of Acts and the birth of the church. If this podcast has blessed you, make sure to follow so you never have to miss an episode.

[Yoel]

Saul, Saul.

[Narrator]

A voice called out from a distance. Saul opened his eyes and sat up. He looked around the room for the source of the voice, but nobody was there.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Must have been a dream.

[Narrator]

Saul hung his feet over the edge of his bed and rubbed his eyes. He had soft sheets and a beautifully woven robe draped down his legs. His room was warm and the lights from the rising sun trickled in through the skylight. He stretched out his arms and yawned. His servant walked up the stairs into his room with a hot breakfast prepared. He washed his hands, breathed in deeply, and whispered a prayer of blessing.

[Yoel]

Saul. Saul.

[Narrator]

A voice called out again. This time Saul could tell where the voice was coming from. He looked out the window and saw a familiar face. It was Yoel, a young servant from the house of Gamaliel.

[Yoel]

Rabbi Saul, it is good to see you again. I have a message from Rabbi Gamaliel, one I think you would want to hear as soon as possible.

[Narrator]

Saul enthusiastically dressed and walked out into the courtyard.

[Saul of Tarsus]

You should know better than the yell at people's windows, Yoel. Especially so early in the morning.

[Yoel]

I am sorry, Rabbi. I thought that this message warranted a little more enthusiasm. I was excited to see you.

[Narrator]

Saul patted Yoel on the back and opened the letter from Gamaliel. He read it up and down twice and couldn't help but smile. It was finally happening. He had been called back to the holy city by the Sanhedrin. He would sit among the rulers of the Jews. In the hall of polished stones. He raised his hands in victory. All his hard work and studies had culminated in this moment. He was going back to Jerusalem to rule and reign among the Elite. It seemed as though nothing could stop his momentum.

[Saul of Tarsus]

This is excellent news, Yoel. Remain here for the night and then return with my reply tomorrow morning. I will let Gamaliel know that I plan to leave as soon as possible.

[Yoel]

Rabbi, there was another message from the High Priest Ananias for you. This is more of a personal note, so he asked me to relay it to you myself.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Go on.

[Yoel]

Jerusalem has changed. You're not returning to the same city you left years ago. A new sect has caused quite a stir among our people.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Blasphemies and fanatics are nothing new, y' all. They will leave in due time, like all the others.

[Yoel]

These people are different. They follow a man from Nazareth who claims to be the Messiah. He was crucified and buried for his crimes. But.

[Narrator]

Yoel paused for a moment, grasping for the right words.

[Yoel]

His followers claim he rose from the grave.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Foolishness, no doubt. His followers robbed the grave and claimed resurrection to compel the crowds.

[Yoel]

That is what the Pharisees are saying. But I must warn you, Rabbi, these are not men to be underestimated. They can do things, miraculous things. And they seem to know things about the law of Moses and the prophets. With little to no education, they. This is why the Sanhedrin has called for you. They need to put an end to these people before it gets out of control. It seems like it might already have.

[Saul of Tarsus]

And what sect or temple do these false teachers come from?

[Yoel]

Well, that's just it, Rabbi. Many of them are uneducated fishermen from Galilee. They call themselves the People of the Way.

[Matt Potter]

This is Matt Potter from from Prey Radio, the global phenomenon the Chosen. The series that has captured audiences around the world has arrived on Prime Video with its most powerful season yet. The table is set. The final hours are approaching. Every moment, every struggle, every sacrifice has led to this. Loyalties will be tested, pushed to the edge of faith and trust. Alliances will be broken. Families will be divided. And nothing will ever be the same again. It's a journey of faith, doubt, hope, transformation, and love. Experience the incredible story of one unforgettable night that changed the course of history forever. You are about to witness a story so profound, it didn't just change lives, it changed the world. Don't miss this exciting new season, the Chosen. The Last Supper. Season five on Prime Video, June 15th.

[Cindy Crawford]

Hi, I'm Cindy Crawford, and I'm the founder of Meaningful Beauty. Well, I don't know about you, but, like, I never liked being told, oh, wow, you look so good for your age. Like, why even bother saying that? Why don't you just say you look great at any age. Every age. That's what Meaningful Beauty is all about. We create products that make you feel confident in your skin and at the age you are now. Meaningful Beauty, Beautiful skin at every age. Learn more@meaningful beauty.com.

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Podcast Host]

Jesus said it himself, A house divided can't stand. If we are able to stand firm and unified in our convictions, nothing can stop us. Welcome to the Jesus Podcast, a year of gospel inspired stories told with cinematic flair and then given some honest reflection. If you've been blessed by this podcast so far, we would love it if you left a review and shared it with a friend. These small steps might seem tiny, but they actually mean a lot to us. Thanks for making the mission possible. Today's story began with the introduction of Saul of Tarsus. Saul, an ambitious young Pharisee looking to be drafted into the ranks of the Sanhedrin, has been assigned to come back to Jerusalem to help deal with a movement called the People of the Way. We use this moment, inspired by Acts Chapter five, to make Saul a fly on the wall of an interesting courtroom drama between Peter, John and the Sanhedrin.

[Narrator]

It had been years since Saul was in Jerusalem. While Saul was away in Tarsus, much had happened. A carpenter from Nazareth stirred up a group of zealots. Even though he was killed, his followers refused to scatter. Saul had been summoned by the Sanhedrin to put his skills to the test. Saul entered the great doors into the hall of polished stones. The room was massive and every whisper reverberated against the rounded walls and ceiling. The floor was hewn from smoothed out granite and the pillars holding up the dome like roof were made from pure ivory. Saul entered the hall without announcing himself. He could hear the Sanhedrin arguing about something. The men sat in a half circle on either side of the high priest in the center. They were adorned with perfectly woven robes and polished jewels. Standing before them were two men bound in rope under some sort of investigation. They wore fisherman's clothes and Ungroomed beards. It wasn't common for such raggedy men to appear before the Sanhedrin. They usually dealt with more upscale matters.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Who are they?

[Narrator]

Instead of making himself known, Saul leaned against the pillar and listened. The high priest, Ananias, was indignant and yelled at the two men standing before him.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Did we not strictly command you not to teach in that man's name? Now look what you've done. Jerusalem is being corrupted with your doctrine. Cease this now or pay the price.

[Narrator]

One of the captured men stood taller than the other. He had a magnetic personality and filled a room easily. He raised his voice and shouted back.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Who are we to obey first, Ananias? God or men? How dare you. We speak for God. No. You murdered God. The God of our fathers came to us and you murdered him by hanging him on a cross.

[Narrator]

The council shifted in their seats with indignant glares. Saul observed them closely. These fishermen were making them very uncomfortable. Saul crossed his arms and leaned his ear in closer to listen. The larger man spoke to the council with insolent boldness.

[Saul of Tarsus]

There is hope even for you, Sanhedrin. The Spirit of God raised Jesus and exalted him to the right hand of the throne of God. If you repent and remove yourself from that false throne, there may be hope for your soul.

[Narrator]

The council was in an uproar. Saul watched as they all stood and shouted curses at the men. Some of them spat in their direction. We are witnesses to his resurrection.

[Yoel]

We have beheld the risen Jesus with our own eyes.

[Narrator]

The Holy Spirit God has given to.

[Yoel]

Those who seek and obey him also bears witness.

[Narrator]

The Holy Spirit.

[Saul of Tarsus]

These men have no idea what they're talking about.

[Narrator]

Saul's gaze returned to Ananias, whose face was red with righteous indignation.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Enough. We warned you both that. That if you preached the name of Jesus, you would be punished.

[Narrator]

He gestured to the guards to grab their ropes and take them away.

[Saul of Tarsus]

We will deliberate and decide your punishment.

[Narrator]

The officers took the two men out of the room. On their way out, they passed Saul. He caught a glimpse of their faces. They were dirty and clearly from poorer families. What gave them the goal to speak to the Sanhedrin like that? They seemed unashamed of their blasphemy and unafraid of any consequences. Their confidence vexed Saul. He stepped closer to the council and listened to the Sanhedrin deliberate. Ananias presided over them with fury.

[Saul of Tarsus]

They must be killed. Clearly, it wasn't enough to kill Jesus. We must put an end to his followers as well. This is the Pharisees fault. They teach about resurrection, spirits and angels. Now we have a whole sect claiming this man rose from the dead and has risen with the angels. You primed the people to think this way. It's your fault.

[Narrator]

The other Sadducees in the room nodded in agreement. The Pharisees shook their heads and objected. The topic of resurrection was touchy. For the conservative Pharisees and liberal Sadducees, the supernatural was an endless debate, one Saul had a great deal of fun engaging in. The room was becoming louder, and small arguments arose among the group. Their dogmatic arguing reverberated down the halls. Their differences in opinion melded into indistinguishable white noise. Then one of the elder members of the Sanhedrin stood to his feet and silenced the crowd. Saul smiled when he saw who it was. It was Gamaliel. His opinion was highly regarded among the Sanhedrin. They silenced themselves to listen to him.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Men of Israel, we must be careful with how we proceed. Take heed on how you treat them, for there's still a shred of possibility. This movement is of the Lord.

[Narrator]

The rest of the council began to stir and murmur. Gamaliel raised his hands and silenced them.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Let me explain. Remember some time ago, Theudas rose from the Zealots claiming to be a prophet from God, and 400 people followed him. He was slain and all his followers disappeared in a matter of months. Remember Judas of Galilee? When he rose up, hundreds of people followed him. He was a blasphemer, and when he was punished, his followers disappeared within a year. What are you saying, Gamaliel? Get to the point. My point is that movements tend to die with their leaders. But when a movement is from the Lord, it won't be thwarted, no matter how hard we try. If these men are simple blasphemers, they will fall away and disappear in months. But if these men are from God, they will endure. They will continue their mission no matter how harsh the punishment is. If God is on their side, nobody can stand against them. Do not harm them. We do not want to be caught working against God. Does God need our defending?

[Narrator]

The council was taken back by Gamaliel's advice, and so was Saul. Saul believed the law of God needed defending. He had made a career out of it. Saul was surprised to hear his teacher say something in favor of blasphemers. It made his stomach churn. Clearly, the Sanhedrin required leadership with more conviction. They needed someone to lead the charge against these people before it got out of hand.

[Saul of Tarsus]

We cannot put them to death. Yet they've been feeding the poor and giving medical care to the sick. The people of the Way have endeared themselves to the common folk. If we kill them too quickly, we might have an uprising on our hands.

[Narrator]

The rest of the Sanhedrin deliberated and agreed to hold off putting the men to death, and Ananias nodded to the temple guards to bring the two men out. They stood in front of the Sanhedrin with smiles on their faces. The high priest glared at them, then nodded to the guards. Beat them immediately. The taller man was struck in the jaw. The younger, shorter man was kicked in the knee and brought to the ground. Saul watched as the guards took out their bludgeoning sticks and struck both of them violently. The larger man grunted with his hands and knees on the cold stone. He took every blow with dignity. The shorter man closed his eyes and hummed a hymn to block out the sound of his ribs cracking. The guards didn't hold back, but still the men remained, conscious and unwavering.

[Saul of Tarsus]

Enough.

[Narrator]

The beating stopped and the two men remained on the floor. The guards brought them to their feet and dragged them to the foot of the high priest. He looked at them with disgust and spat in their faces.

[Saul of Tarsus]

This is your final warning, Peter and John. Leave here and do not mention Jesus of Nazareth again.

[Narrator]

Neither man said a word in response. There was no nod of recognition or acknowledgment. They were impassive and allowed the guards to throw them outside. Saul slipped out of the back of the hall into the courtyard and watched the men get thrown into the dirt. He was curious to see what these men would do next. Would they remain there in defeat? Would they curse God and the temple? No. They neither wept nor cursed. Saul watched curiously as they helped each other up and dusted themselves off. The man called Peter held his ribs as he laughed.

[Saul of Tarsus]

I have been beaten many times in my life, John, but this is the first time I am pleased by it.

[Yoel]

We suffer as he suffered. Come, let's go back to the courtyards.

[Narrator]

We have much to do. The two men limped away, holding each other up, shoulder to shoulder. Sol was both perplexed and annoyed. How could they be so joyful after such a brutal beating? Didn't they learn their lesson by responding to judgment with joy? They removed the power of punishment. If beating them didn't deter them, then what would? Quiet contempt began to already settle in Saul's heart. His predisposition to righteous rage flared. He straightened his robes and went back into the hall of Polished Stones.

[Matt Potter]

This is Matt Potter from Prey Radio the global phenomenon the Chosen, the series that has captured audiences around the world, has arrived on Prime Video with its most powerful season yet. The table is set. The final hours are approaching. Every moment, every struggle, every sacrifice has led to this. Loyalties will be tested, pushed to the edge of faith and trust. Alliances will be broken. Families will be divided, and nothing will ever be the same again. It's a journey of faith, doubt, hope, transformation and love. Experience the incredible story of one unforgettable night that changed the course of history forever. You are about to witness a story so profound it didn't just change lives, it changed the world. Don't miss this exciting new season, the Chosen the Last Supper. Season 5 on Prime Video June 15.

[Cindy Crawford]

Hi, I'm Cindy Crawford and I'm the founder of Meaningful Beauty. Well, I don't know about you, but like, I never liked being told, oh wow, you look so good for your age. Like, why even bother saying that? Why don't you just say you look great at any age, Every age. That's what Meaningful Beauty is all about. We create products that make you feel confident in your skin at the age you are now. Meaningful Beauty. Beautiful skin at every age. Learn more@meaning beauty.com.

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Podcast Host]

I'll make this one short and sweet for you all. Do you know that nothing, and I truly mean nothing, can thwart the work of Christ? We talk about what's happening in the world with wars and corrupt governments at each other's throats, especially during election season. We talk about policies, politicians, and how each person on the other side vying for votes will be the end of democracy. We talk about the culture wars and competing ideologies in our school systems and our churches. We talk about the decline of morals in Hollywood and in entertainment. It's all very sensational. Some of it should warrant our serious attention. Other issues are better left ignored. However, there is one prevailing truth that buoys above the madness of culture. The gospel is inevitable and the gospel is indestructible. And those who champion the gospel, although their bones may be broken and their possessions might be taken away, are also indestructible. Jesus gave us these words for times of trouble. I have told you these things so that in me you might have peace, and in this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world. John 16:33 these words were spoken to the apostles before Jesus was going to be arrested, beaten, put on trial, and then ultimately crucified. And it was no doubt these words that really encouraged Peter, John and all the other apostles as they faced harsh persecution. They were able to keep their chins up high because they knew that they weren't working for victory. But from victory we worship an overcomer. No government policy, shadowy figures in places of power or bullies can thwart the momentum of people passionate about Christ. The Gospel prevails amidst chaos and corruption, and it can also prevail in your heart as well. When you find yourself divided, double minded and tempted to compromise. Remember the boldness of John and Peter in front of the Sanhedrin and also remember the conversion of Saul that we're going to experience later on. He was an immovable man settled in his ideology, but all mountains can be moved eventually. In our next few episodes, we're going to be unpacking the drama of Saul as he tries to thwart the people of the way. Buckle up, it's going to get intense. Thanks again for listening to the Jesus Podcast. You already know what to do. Make sure to follow subscribe on whatever platform you listen to, share it with a friend and rate and leave a review. We love that you've been joining us so far on the Jesus Podcast. If you're interested in any more content that Pray.com produces, you can look us up on Spotify, itunes, Iheart, wherever you get your podcasts, or you can download the pray.com app. Today we have a wealth of different resources and different church leaders and ministry leaders that all put their content on pray.com if you're looking for the most vast menu of encouraging content to really strengthen your faith, look no further than the pre.com app hey, it's Ryan Seacrest.

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Ryan Seacrest]

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