Podcast Title: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry
Episode: April 12, 2025
Host/Author: Crossway
Release Date: April 12, 2025
Scriptures Covered:

• Old Testament: Deuteronomy 29–30
• Psalms: Psalm 94
• New Testament: Acts 18

Introduction

In this episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry, listeners embark on a spiritual journey through pivotal scriptures. The episode intricately weaves readings from Deuteronomy, Psalms, and Acts, offering profound insights into covenantal faithfulness, divine justice, and the early church's missionary endeavors.

Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 29–30

Summary:
Deuteronomy chapters 29 and 30 are pivotal in Moses' address to the Israelites as they stand on the brink of entering the Promised Land. Moses reiterates the covenant between God and Israel, emphasizing the blessings of obedience and the dire consequences of disobedience. He underscores the importance of remaining steadfast in their faith to ensure prosperity and longevity in the land promised to their ancestors.

Key Themes:

• Covenant Renewal: Moses re-establishes the covenant, urging the Israelites to commit wholeheartedly to God's laws.
• Blessings and Curses: A stark delineation between the rewards of obedience and the repercussions of turning away from God.
• Divine Fidelity: Assurance of God's unwavering commitment to His people, contingent upon their faithfulness.

Notable Quotes:

• Moses (00:05): "Keep the words of this covenant and do them that you may prosper in all that you do."
  [00:05]
• Moses (03:50): "All the curses written in this book."
  [03:50]
• Moses (07:01): "Choose life that you and your offspring may live loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him."
  [07:01]

Insights: Moses poignantly warns against complacency and the allure of foreign deities, highlighting the cyclical nature of Israel's history of faithfulness followed by apostasy. The emphasis on the accessibility of God's commandments—"the word is very near you"—underscores the attainable nature of righteousness.

Psalms Reading: Psalm 94

Summary:
Psalm 94 is a fervent plea for divine justice against the wicked who oppress the righteous. The psalmist laments the apparent triumph of evildoers and calls upon God to vindicate His people, asserting that true justice will ultimately prevail.

Key Themes:

• Divine Justice: A heartfelt request for God to judge the wicked and protect the oppressed.
• Faith in God’s Righteousness: Assurance that God is aware of human thoughts and actions, even when it seems that justice is delayed.
• Hope for the Righteous: Comfort that God will not abandon His people and that justice will be restored.

Notable Quotes:

• Psalmist (07:08): "The Lord knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath."
  [07:08]
• Psalmist (07:22): "But the Lord has become my stronghold, and my God the rock of my refuge."
  [07:22]

Insights: The psalm encapsulates the struggle between good and evil, emphasizing unwavering trust in God's ultimate judgment. It reassures believers that righteousness will be rewarded and that God remains a steadfast protector amidst adversity.

New Testament Reading: Acts 18

Summary:
Acts 18 chronicles Apostle Paul's missionary activities in Corinth. Paul collaborates with fellow tentmakers Aquila and Priscilla, engages in evangelism within the synagogue, and faces opposition from the Jewish community. Despite resistance, Paul's perseverance leads to significant conversions, including that of Crispus, the synagogue ruler. The chapter also highlights Paul's vision encouraging him to continue his ministry and concludes with his departure from Corinth to further strengthen disciples across various regions.

Key Themes:

• Missionary Partnership: The collaboration between Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla exemplifies teamwork in ministry.
• Perseverance Amid Opposition: Paul's steadfastness in the face of hostility underscores the challenges of evangelism.
• Divine Encouragement: The vision Paul receives reinforces God's support and presence in his mission.
• Growth of the Early Church: The spread of Christianity through diverse regions signifies the expanding influence of the gospel.

Notable Quotes:

• Narrator (Acts 18:17): "Your blood be on your own heads. I am innocent."
  [Various Timestamps]
• Narrator (Acts 18:22): "And the Lord said to Paul one night in a vision, 'Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent...'"
  [Timestamp Unspecified]
• Narrator (Acts 18:28): "He greatly helped those who through grace had believed for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, showing by the scriptures that the Christ was Jesus."
  [Timestamp Unspecified]

Insights: Acts 18 illustrates the dynamic nature of early Christian missions, highlighting both the collaborative efforts and the inevitable conflicts encountered. Paul's strategic approach—teaching in synagogues, leveraging partnerships, and responding to divine guidance—serves as a model for effective ministry. The chapter underscores the transformative power of the gospel, leading to widespread conversion and the establishment of strong Christian communities.

Conclusion

This episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry offers a rich exploration of covenantal loyalty, divine justice, and the resilient spirit of early Christian missions. By delving into Deuteronomy 29–30, Psalm 94, and Acts 18, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own faithfulness, trust in God's righteousness, and commitment to spreading the gospel despite challenges. The integration of these scriptures provides a comprehensive understanding of the enduring themes that shape the Judeo-Christian narrative.

End of Summary