Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry

Episode: February 12 (Exodus 29–30; Psalm 39; Luke 3)
Date: February 12, 2026
Host: Crossway

Episode Overview

This episode continues the daily journey through the ESV Bible, featuring readings from Exodus (chapters 29–30), Psalm 39, and Luke 3. Today’s selections highlight the intricate ordination rituals for priests in Israel, King David’s reflection on mortality and trust in the Lord, and John the Baptist’s call to repentance along with the genealogy of Jesus.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Exodus 29–30: Consecration of the Priests and Sacred Rituals

(00:01–10:06)

• Detailed instructions are given for the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests:
  • Rituals include washing, clothing with sacred garments, and anointing with oil.
  • A bull and two rams without blemish are offered, and specifics are given for sin, burnt, and ordination offerings.
  • The process upholds the seriousness of holiness in God’s presence.
• Recurring phrases about holiness:
  • “The priesthood shall be theirs by a statute forever.” (00:06)
  • Only the priests and not outsiders may eat the ordination offerings because “they are holy.” (07:40)
• The altar and atonement:
  • A daily, regular offering is established: “One lamb…in the morning, and…the other lamb…at twilight…it shall be a regular burnt offering throughout your generations.” (09:00)
  • Pattern of renewal and daily devotion is underscored.
• Instructions for the altar of incense and anointing oil:
  • Only specific sacred incense is permitted, and the oil is “most holy.” (10:00)
  • Pious warnings: “Whoever compounds any like it or whoever puts any of it on an outsider shall be cut off from his people.” (09:59)

2. Psalm 39: David’s Reflection on Mortality and Hope

(10:06–11:35)

• David’s struggle with his own frailty and control over the tongue:
  • “I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue.” (10:06, Speaker B)
  • “My heart became hot within me…Then I spoke with my tongue: ‘O Lord, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am.’” (10:25, Speaker B)
• Futility of earthly striving:
  • “Surely a man goes about as a shadow…man heaps up wealth and does not know who will gather.” (10:43–10:52, Speakers A & B)
• Plea for deliverance and humility:
  • “My hope is in you. Deliver me from all my transgressions.” (10:52, Speaker B)
  • “Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear to my cry…for I am a sojourner with you, a guest like all my fathers.” (11:22, Speaker B)

3. Luke 3: John the Baptist, the Baptism of Jesus, and the Genealogy

(11:35–16:14)

• Historical context:
  • Lists rulers like Tiberius Caesar and Herod to anchor the narrative in real history. (11:37–12:12)
• John the Baptist’s proclamation:
  • Fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’” (12:11, Speaker A)
  • Call to repentance and new fruit:
    “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits in keeping with repentance.” (12:35, Speaker B)
  • Social applications:
    “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” (12:57, Speaker B)
    “Collect no more than you are authorized to do.” (13:07, Speaker B)
    “Do not extort money…and be content with your wages.” (13:16, Speaker B)
• John distinguishes himself from Christ:
  • “I baptize you with water. But he who is mightier than I is coming…He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” (13:29, Speaker B)
• Baptism of Jesus and divine affirmation:
  • “The Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.’” (14:24-14:31, Speaker B)
• Genealogy of Jesus:
  • Traces from Joseph through David and Abraham, all the way back to Adam and God, underscoring Jesus’ role as the true Son of God—a pivotal affirmation of his divine and human heritage. (14:31–16:14, Speakers B, C, A)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On priestly consecration and holiness:
  • “He and his garments shall be holy, and his sons and his sons’ garments with him.” (Exodus reading, 06:02, Speaker A)
• David’s wisdom on the brevity of life:
  • “Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath. Selah.” (10:31, Speaker B)
  • “My hope is in you.” (10:52, Speaker B)
• John the Baptist’s sharp call to repentance:
  • “Bear fruits in keeping with repentance...Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees.” (12:34–12:49, Speaker B)
• The voice of God at Jesus’ baptism:
  • “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” (14:27, Speaker B)

Key Timestamps for Important Segments

• Exodus – Priestly Ordination & Rituals: 00:01–10:06
• Psalm 39 – David’s Prayer: 10:06–11:35
• Luke 3 – John’s Ministry and Jesus’ Baptism: 11:35–14:31
• Luke 3 – Genealogy of Jesus: 14:31–16:14

Tone & Language

The episode maintains a reverent, instructional tone—rooted deeply in the biblical texts themselves. The language is clear and direct, moving between ancient ritual detail, poetic personal prayer, and prophetic admonition. The readings allow scripture to speak for itself, inviting listeners to reflection and wholehearted engagement with God’s word.

Summary Takeaway

This episode immerses listeners in the seriousness of holiness and atonement (Exodus), the sobering humility of the human condition (Psalm), and the radical newness of repentance and the announcement of Jesus as God’s chosen Son and Savior (Luke). Each segment builds a rich mosaic of God’s unfolding plan—from ancient ritual to messianic revelation.