**Podcast Summary: "Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry"
Episode: April 13
Release Date: April 13, 2025
Host/Author: Crossway
**

Introduction

In the April 13th episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry," listeners embark on a profound journey through scripture, guided by the structured format of reading the English Standard Version (ESV) Bible over 365 days. This episode delves into pivotal passages from Deuteronomy 31–32, Psalm 95, and Acts 19, offering listeners a balanced exploration of the Old Testament, Psalms, and New Testament. Through meticulous readings and insightful narrations, the podcast aims to deepen the listener’s understanding and appreciation of the Bible's timeless messages.

Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 31–32

Speakers: Moses and Joshua
Timestamp: [00:00] – [04:44]

The episode opens with a stirring reading from Deuteronomy 31–32, where Moses addresses the Israelites as they stand on the brink of entering the Promised Land. At [00:07], Joshua declares, "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you." This declaration underscores the theme of divine assurance and leadership transition from Moses to Joshua.

Key Highlights:

• Moses' Farewell Address:
  Moses, at [01:10], emphasizes God's unwavering presence: "He will be with you." This reassurance is pivotal as Moses prepares the Israelites for his impending death and Joshua’s leadership.

• Commissioning of Joshua:
  At [01:12], Joshua is formally commissioned before all Israel with the exhortation, "Do not fear or be dismayed." This moment marks a significant leadership transition, ensuring continuity in God's guidance for the Israelites.

• The Song of Moses:
  A central part of Deuteronomy 32 is the Song of Moses, a poetic recounting of Israel's history, their covenant with God, and forthcoming judgment. Notably, Moses warns of Israel’s future unfaithfulness: "They will turn to other gods and serve them and despise me and break my covenant." This serves as both a warning and a testament to God's enduring commitment despite human failure.

• Moses' Final Instructions:
  Moses underscores the importance of adherence to the law, stating, "Take to heart all the words by which I am warning you today, that you may command them to your children." This highlights the intergenerational transmission of faith and obedience.

Psalm Reading: Psalm 95

Speaker: Moses
Timestamp: [04:44] – [11:44]

Transitioning to the Book of Psalms, Psalm 95 is recited, offering a heartfelt invitation to worship and a solemn reminder of the consequences of disobedience.

Key Highlights:

• Call to Worship:
  Moses invites the congregation with joy: "Oh, come, let us sing to the Lord. Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation." This emphasizes the importance of communal worship and gratitude.

• Sovereignty of God:
  The psalmist declares God's dominion over all creation: "For the Lord is a great God and a great king above all gods." This assertion serves to remind the Israelites of God's supreme authority and majesty.

• Warning Against Hardened Hearts:
  A cautionary verse at [10:00] warns, "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as at Meribah, as on the day at Massah." Reflecting back to past instances of Israel's testing of God, this warning serves as a reminder to remain faithful and receptive to God's guidance.

New Testament Reading: Acts 19

Speaker: Joshua
Timestamp: [11:44] – [14:44]

The episode concludes with an engaging reading from Acts 19, detailing the Apostle Paul's ministry in Ephesus and the ensuing challenges he faces.

Key Highlights:

• Paul’s Ministry in Ephesus:
  At [12:00], Paul's encounter with the disciples in Ephesus is highlighted: "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" His subsequent actions lead to a significant spiritual revival, evidenced by believers speaking in tongues and prophesying.

• Miracles and Their Impact:
  The narrative recounts, "God was doing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul..." These miracles not only affirmed Paul's ministry but also drew widespread attention, both positive and negative.

• Confrontation with Demetrius:
  A pivotal moment occurs when Demetrius, a silversmith, incites a disturbance against Paul, fearing the decline of his trade in making silver shrines of Artemis. Demetrius declares, "men, you know that from this business we have our wealth." This confrontation emphasizes the tension between faith and economic interests.

• Public Reaction and Resolution:
  The chaos escalates as the crowd gathers in the theater, but the city clerk intervenes, urging calm: "Men of Ephesus, who is there who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is temple keeper of the great Artemis...?" This resolution highlights the protective measures for maintaining public order amidst religious disputes.

Insights and Reflections

This episode meticulously weaves together narratives from both the Old and New Testaments, offering listeners a comprehensive view of leadership, faithfulness, and divine intervention. The readings from Deuteronomy emphasize the critical transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua, underscoring the importance of courage and steadfastness in faith. Psalm 95 serves as a spiritual anthem, blending praise with introspection, reminding believers of the necessity to remain obedient and receptive to God's voice.

In the New Testament portion, Acts 19 illustrates the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the challenges of spreading the Gospel in a socio-economically driven society. Paul's experiences in Ephesus reflect the broader theme of faith confronting worldly values, a recurring motif that resonates across the scriptures.

Notable Quotes:

• Joshua on God's Presence:
  "He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." — Joshua [01:10]

• Moses on Obedience:
  "For it is no empty word for you, but your very life." — Moses [14:29]

• Psalmist's Invitation:
  "Oh, come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker." — Moses [11:44]

• Demetrius on Economic Dependence:
  "Men, you know that from this business we have our wealth." — Demetrius [13:05]

Conclusion

The April 13th episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry" offers a rich tapestry of biblical narratives that encourage listeners to reflect on leadership, obedience, worship, and the challenges of maintaining faith in a complex world. By immersing in these scriptures, believers are reminded of the enduring nature of God's covenant and the essential qualities required to uphold it. This episode not only reinforces foundational biblical truths but also inspires actionable faith, making it a valuable addition to the listener's spiritual journey.