Podcast Summary: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry Episode: April 17 (Joshua 5–7; Psalm 99; Acts 23)
Release Date: April 17, 2025
Host/Author: Crossway

Introduction

In this episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year," Jackie Hill Perry guides listeners through a profound journey spanning Joshua 5–7, Psalm 99, and Acts 23. This session delves into themes of obedience, holiness, and unwavering faith, offering rich insights into pivotal moments in biblical history.

Old Testament Reading: Joshua 5–7

Key Events and Discussions:

1. Renewal of the Covenant (Joshua 5):

   • Circumcision and Preparation: As the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land, Joshua circumcises the new generation (Joshua 5:2-9). This act signifies a renewal of the covenant, emphasizing obedience to God's commands.
   • Passover and Manna: The Israelites celebrate Passover at Gilgal (Joshua 5:10-12). The cessation of manna signifies God's provision and the transition to living off the land of Canaan (Joshua 5:12).

2. The Battle of Jericho (Joshua 6):

   • Divine Strategy: God instructs Joshua to march around Jericho for seven days with priests bearing trumpets (Joshua 6:1-5). On the seventh day, a great shout leads to the miraculous collapse of Jericho's walls (Joshua 6:20).
   • Obedience Rewarded: The fall of Jericho underscores the importance of following God's unconventional strategies and the blessings that follow obedience.

3. Achan's Sin and Its Consequences (Joshua 7):

   • Violation of Holiness: Despite victory, Achan's disobedience in taking devoted things leads to Israel's defeat at Ai (Joshua 7:1-5).
   • Community Accountability: Joshua seeks God's guidance, leading to the identification and punishment of Achan and his family (Joshua 7:24-26). This segment highlights the necessity of collective responsibility and adherence to God's laws.

Notable Quotes:

• Joshua on Covenant Renewal:
  "The Lord said to Joshua, 'today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.'” (Joshua 5:9, 00:45)

• Divine Assurance to Joshua:
  "The Lord has given you the city." (Joshua 6:17, 05:30)

• Joshua's Lament Over Israel's Sin:
  "Alas, O Lord God, why have you brought this people over the Jordan at all?" (Joshua 7:6, 07:00)

Psalm 99: A Celebration of God's Sovereignty and Holiness

Key Themes and Insights:

• God’s Kingship: Psalm 99 extols God's supreme authority and righteous rule over Israel (Psalm 99:1-5).
• Call to Worship: The psalmist urges the congregation to exalt God, recognizing His holiness and justice (Psalm 99:9-10).
• Historical Faithfulness: References to Moses, Aaron, and Samuel highlight God's enduring relationship with His people and His unwavering commitment to His commandments (Psalm 99:6-9).

Notable Quotes:

• Affirmation of God's Reign:
  "The Lord reigns, let the peoples tremble." (Psalm 99:1, 09:00)

• Exhortation to Praise:
  "Exalt the Lord our God, worship at his footstool." (Psalm 99:5, 11:48)

• Reminder of Divine Justice:
  "He has executed justice and righteousness in Jacob." (Psalm 99:4, 12:24)

New Testament Reading: Acts 23

Key Events and Discussions:

1. Paul Before the Sanhedrin:

   • Defense and Division: Paul defends himself before the Jewish council, causing a split between the Pharisees and Sadducees over the doctrine of resurrection (Acts 23:1-5, 13:2-6).
   • Bold Proclamation: Paul's declaration of his Pharisee identity and his testimony about the hope of resurrection sparks significant controversy (Acts 23:6-9).

2. Plot Against Paul’s Life:

   • Conspiracy Revealed: A conspiracy among over 40 Jews to kill Paul arises, leading to fears for his safety (Acts 23:12-13).
   • Divine Intervention: Paul's nephew warns him of the plot, enabling Paul to request a transfer to Caesarea for protection (Acts 23:16-26).

3. Paul’s Transfer to Felix:

   • Safe Passage: The tribune acts swiftly to protect Paul, sending him with a large entourage to Governor Felix in Caesarea, highlighting the Roman commitment to due process (Acts 23:27-35).

Key Insights:

• Courage in Adversity: Paul's steadfastness in proclaiming his faith despite opposition exemplifies unwavering courage.
• Division and Conflict: The schism between Pharisees and Sadducees underscores the deep theological divides of the time.
• Providence and Protection: God's providence is evident in Paul’s escape from a murderous plot, emphasizing divine protection over His faithful servants.

Notable Quotes:

• Paul's Confrontation with the Council:
  "Was I standing here to defend myself before you? I know that, just as you have done, it is just as you have done to me also." (Acts 23:3, 13:02)

• Paul’s Assertion of Faith:
  "It is with respect to the hope and the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial." (Acts 23:8, 13:04)

• Divine Encouragement to Paul:
  "Take courage...so you must testify also in Rome." (Acts 23:11, 14:17)

Conclusions and Reflections

This episode intricately weaves narratives of leadership, faithfulness, and the complexities of human obedience. From Joshua's strategic maneuvers in conquest to Paul's unwavering testimony in the face of persecution, listeners are reminded of the enduring principles of trust in divine guidance and the importance of maintaining integrity amidst trials.

Jackie Hill Perry’s exploration of these passages encourages a deeper understanding of obedience to God's commands, the significance of communal responsibility, and the courage required to uphold one's faith. The inclusion of Psalm 99 serves as a poetic reinforcement of God's supreme authority and the appropriate response of worship and reverence from His followers.

Final Thoughts:

• Obedience and Trust: Both Joshua and Paul exemplify the blessings and challenges that come with steadfast obedience to God's will.
• Holiness and Justice: Psalm 99 reiterates the necessity of recognizing and honoring God's holiness and just rule.
• Courage in Trials: Paul's experiences highlight the importance of courage and integrity when facing opposition or persecution.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on these themes, applying the lessons of obedience, holiness, and unwavering faith to their personal journeys.

Notable Timestamped Quotes:

• Joshua’s Circumcision Command:
  "So Joshua made flint knives and circumcised the sons of Israel at Gibeath, Haereloth." (Joshua 5:8, 02:15)

• Miraculous Fall of Jericho:
  "And the wall of the city will fall down flat." (Joshua 6:20, 05:45)

• Psalm 99's Call to Worship:
  "Exalt the Lord our God, worship at his footstool." (Psalm 99:5, 11:48)

• Paul’s Bold Statement:
  "It is with respect to the hope and the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial." (Acts 23:8, 13:04)

• Divine Assurance to Paul:
  "Take courage...so you must testify also in Rome." (Acts 23:11, 14:17)

This episode serves as a compelling reminder of the timeless truths found within Scripture, encouraging listeners to engage deeply with God's Word and apply its lessons to everyday life.