Podcast Summary: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry
Episode: April 5
Scriptures: Deuteronomy 13–14; Psalm 88; Acts 11
Release Date: April 5, 2025

1. Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 13–14

Overview:
The episode commences with a reading from the Book of Deuteronomy, chapters 13 and 14. These chapters focus on the Israelites' strict adherence to God's commandments, particularly emphasizing the rejection of false prophets and the importance of maintaining ritual purity through dietary laws and tithing.

Key Points:

• Rejection of False Prophets (Deuteronomy 13):
  The text warns against prophets or dreamers who, despite performing signs or wonders, advocate for the worship of other gods. It underscores the severity of such rebellion, prescribing the death penalty for those who lead others astray from Yahweh. This is a test of the Israelites' loyalty to God: loving Him with all their heart and soul.

  Notable Quote:
  "You shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams... You shall kill him."
  (00:01)

• Dietary Laws and Purity (Deuteronomy 14):
  The chapter delineates clean and unclean animals, instructing the Israelites on permissible foods. It also prohibits certain mourning practices, underscoring the sanctity of the people as God's treasured possession. Additionally, it introduces tithing, encouraging generosity and support for the Levites, foreigners, fatherless, and widows.

  Notable Quote:
  "You shall tithe all the yield of your seed that come from the field... you may rejoice you and your household."
  (04:43)

Insights:
Jackie Hill Perry reflects on the relevance of these Old Testament laws in contemporary faith practice. She emphasizes the importance of discernment in spiritual leadership and the enduring value of generosity and community support as foundational Christian virtues.

2. Psalm Reading: Psalm 88

Overview:
Psalm 88 is presented as a poignant lament, expressing deep sorrow and a sense of abandonment by God. The psalmist grapples with overwhelming despair, seeking divine intervention amidst profound personal and communal distress.

Key Points:

• Expression of Despair:
  The psalmist articulates a feeling of being trapped in darkness, surrounded by troubles that seem insurmountable. There is a continuous plea for God to hear and respond to their cries.

  Notable Quote:
  "I cry out day and night before you... I am cut off from your hand."
  (06:15)

• Struggle with Faith:
  Questions arise about God's presence and faithfulness, highlighting the internal conflict between faith and the immediate experience of suffering.

  Notable Quote:
  "Do you work wonders for the dead? Do the departed rise up to praise you?"
  (07:18)

• Persistent Plea for Help:
  Despite the anguish, the psalmist continues to call upon the Lord, seeking relief and understanding.

  Notable Quote:
  "But I, O Lord, cry to you... A whole day long they close in on me."
  (07:47)

Insights:
Jackie Hill Perry delves into the raw honesty of Psalm 88, exploring themes of faith amidst suffering and the human struggle to comprehend divine silence. She encourages listeners to find solace in their vulnerability, acknowledging that questioning can coexist with steadfast faith.

3. New Testament Reading: Acts 11

Overview:
The reading transitions to the New Testament, specifically Acts chapter 11. This passage chronicles the early Church's expansion, highlighting the pivotal moment when Gentiles began to join the Christian faith, marking a significant shift in the inclusivity of the Gospel.

Key Points:

• Peter’s Vision and Gentile Inclusion:
  Peter recounts his vision of unclean animals being made clean, symbolizing the removal of barriers between Jews and Gentiles. This revelation led to the acceptance of Gentiles into the Church without requiring circumcision.

  Notable Quote:
  "What God has made clean, do not call common."
  (07:20)

• Role of Barnabas and Saul:
  Barnabas is sent to Antioch to support the burgeoning Gentile believers, and Saul (later Paul) is brought from Tarsus to continue the mission. Their leadership fosters a year-long period of teaching and growth within the Antioch church.

  Notable Quote:
  "Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith."
  (No timestamp)

• First Use of "Christian":
  Antioch becomes the site where disciples are first called Christians, signifying a distinct identity for followers of Jesus.

• Prophetic Prediction and Community Response:
  Prophet Agabus predicts a great famine, prompting the Antioch church to organize relief efforts, demonstrating the community's commitment to support and solidarity.

  Notable Quote:
  "The disciples determined everyone according to his ability to send relief to the brothers living in Judea."
  (No timestamp)

Insights:
Jackie Hill Perry explores the transformative impact of Acts 11 on the early Church, emphasizing the breaking down of cultural and religious barriers. She draws parallels to modern-day inclusivity within the Church, advocating for a universal approach to spreading the Gospel and supporting one another in times of need.

Conclusion

In this April 5 episode, Jackie Hill Perry guides listeners through significant biblical passages that highlight the demands of faithfulness, the depths of human despair, and the expansive reach of the early Christian Church. Through Deuteronomy, Psalm 88, and Acts 11, the discussion navigates the complexities of maintaining purity in worship, grappling with personal suffering, and embracing inclusivity within the faith community. Notable quotes from the scriptures punctuate the narrative, offering listeners profound reflections on their spiritual journey.