Podcast Summary: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry
Episode: January 31 (Exodus 6–7; Psalm 28; Mark 7)
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Introduction
In the January 31st episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year, hosted by Crossway and featuring bestselling author Jackie Hill Perry, listeners embark on a profound journey through significant biblical passages. This episode delves into Exodus chapters 6 and 7, Psalm 28, and Mark chapter 7, exploring themes of God's covenant, faith amidst adversity, heartfelt prayers, and the confrontation between tradition and true piety.
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 6–7
Summary:
The episode begins with a reading from Exodus 6–7, where God reaffirms His covenant with Moses and the Israelites. God declares His intention to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, emphasizing His power and commitment:
- Divine Assurance: God promises to redeem the Israelites with a "strong hand" and "outstretched arm," reinforcing His unwavering support (Exodus 6:2).
- Moses' Reluctance: Despite God's assurances, Moses expresses self-doubt, questioning his ability to convince Pharaoh due to his perceived shortcomings ("uncircumcised lips") (Exodus 6:13).
- Aaron's Role: God appoints Aaron as Moses' spokesperson, establishing a partnership in confronting Pharaoh.
- The First Plagues: The narrative progresses to Aaron's staff turning into a serpent, a sign that surpasses the magicians of Egypt, signaling the beginning of God's judgments against Egypt (Exodus 7:8-12).
Insights and Discussions:
Jackie Hill Perry reflects on the themes of leadership and divine partnership. She emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when faced with personal insecurities and seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The transformation of Aaron's staff serves as a metaphor for divine intervention in human affairs, illustrating that God's power transcends human authority and expectations.
Notable Quotes:
- God to Moses (00:01): "I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians."
- Moses' Doubt (Authoritative Source) (00:13): "How then shall Pharaoh listen to me? For I am of uncircumcised lips."
- Aaron's Miracle (00:55): "Aaron cast down his staff before Pharaoh and his servants, and it became a serpent."
Psalm 28
Summary:
Transitioning to the Book of Psalms, the reading of Psalm 28 offers a heartfelt prayer of David, seeking God's mercy and protection against the wicked. David implores God to hear his pleas and not to allow him to be overwhelmed by evildoers. He expresses unwavering trust in God's strength and refuge, ultimately praising God for His steadfastness.
Insights and Discussions:
Jackie Hill Perry draws parallels between David's vulnerabilities and the personal struggles listeners may face today. She highlights the significance of turning to God in times of distress, emphasizing that true strength and protection come from divine reliance rather than human capabilities. The Psalm serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining faith and integrity amidst adversity.
Notable Quotes:
- David's Plea (07:17): "To you, O Lord, I call my rock. Be not deaf to me..."
- Expression of Trust (07:56): "The Lord is my strength and my shield. In him my heart trusts and I am helped."
- Praise and Thanksgiving (08:05): "Blessed be the Lord, for he has heard the voice of my pleas for mercy."
New Testament Reading: Mark 7
Summary:
The episode culminates with a reading from Mark 7, where Jesus confronts the Pharisees and scribes over their adherence to human traditions at the expense of God's commandments. He challenges the notion that external practices, such as ritual handwashing, determine purity, asserting that true defilement comes from within the heart. Jesus then performs miracles, including healing a Syrophoenician woman's daughter and curing a deaf and mute man, demonstrating compassion and divine authority.
Insights and Discussions:
Jackie Hill Perry explores the conflict between external religiosity and genuine spirituality. She discusses Jesus' critique of hypocrisy and empty rituals, advocating for an authentic relationship with God that prioritizes heart transformation over mere outward compliance. The miracles performed by Jesus are highlighted as tangible expressions of His ministry's transformative power, reinforcing the message that true purity and righteousness emanate from the heart.
Notable Quotes:
- Jesus on Hypocrisy (08:21): "This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me."
- Redefining Purity (09:02): "There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him... Thus he declared all foods clean."
- Miracle of Healing (09:15): "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak."
Key Discussions and Insights
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Divine Purpose and Human Doubt: The readings from Exodus emphasize God's unwavering commitment to His promises, even when human leaders struggle with doubt and inadequacy. Jackie Hill Perry underscores the importance of stepping into one's divine purpose despite personal fears, trusting that God equips those He calls.
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Authentic Faith vs. Ritual Compliance: Through Mark 7, the episode delves into the tension between outward religious practices and inner spiritual integrity. The discussion highlights the necessity of aligning one's heart with God's will, moving beyond hollow traditions to embrace genuine faith.
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Prayer and Reliance on God: Psalm 28 serves as a powerful reminder of the role of prayer in seeking God's intervention and protection. The conversation encourages listeners to cultivate a habit of sincere prayer, trusting in God's responsiveness and care.
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Miracles as Demonstrations of Faith: The miracles recounted in Exodus and Mark illustrate God's active presence in the world and His willingness to intervene on behalf of His people. Jackie Hill Perry relates these acts to the belief that God continues to work miracles, offering hope and transformation in contemporary life.
Conclusion
The January 31st episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year offers a rich exploration of pivotal biblical narratives and teachings. Through Exodus 6–7, Psalm 28, and Mark 7, Jackie Hill Perry and the host guide listeners in understanding the depth of God's covenant, the essence of true faith, and the importance of aligning one's heart with divine principles. This episode not only provides scriptural insights but also encourages practical application of these timeless lessons in the journey of faith.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- God's Assurance to Moses: "I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians." (00:01)
- Moses' Self-Doubt: "How then shall Pharaoh listen to me? For I am of uncircumcised lips." (00:13)
- David's Plea for Mercy: "To you, O Lord, I call my rock. Be not deaf to me..." (07:17)
- Jesus on Hypocrisy: "This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me." (08:21)
- Redefining Defilement: "There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him... Thus he declared all foods clean." (09:02)
- Miracles of Compassion: "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak." (09:15)
This episode serves as a profound reminder of the complexities of faith, leadership, and genuine spirituality. Through engaging scriptural readings and insightful discussions, listeners are encouraged to deepen their understanding of God's Word and apply its truths to their everyday lives.