Podcast Summary: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry Episode: July 18, 2025
Scripture Readings:

• Old Testament: 2 Chronicles 1
• Psalms: Psalm 17
• New Testament: Matthew 20

Introduction

In this episode, hosted by Crossway and featuring bestselling author Jackie Hill Perry, listeners embark on a day-long journey through the ESV Bible. The readings for July 18 include 2 Chronicles 1, Psalm 17, and Matthew 20. This summary delves into the key themes, discussions, and insights presented, providing an engaging overview for those who haven't tuned in.

Old Testament Reading: 2 Chronicles 1

Summary: The episode opens with a narration from 2 Chronicles 1, focusing on King Solomon's establishment of his kingdom. Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, seeks God's guidance to effectively govern a vast and diverse nation.

Key Points:

• Solomon's Ascension and Prayer for Wisdom:
  Solomon ascends to power with divine support, addressing leaders across Israel. In a pivotal moment, he offers a thousand burnt offerings, prompting God to appear to him (00:01-02:33). Solomon's humble request for wisdom rather than personal gain exemplifies his dedication to righteous leadership.

• God's Response:
  God commends Solomon for his selfless request (02:10). He grants Solomon unparalleled wisdom, wealth, possessions, and honor, ensuring his reign surpasses that of previous and future kings.

• Solomon's Actions as King:
  The narrative details Solomon's consolidation of power through military organization and economic prosperity (02:33-04:01). He amasses chariots and horsemen, enhances Jerusalem's wealth, and establishes extensive trade networks, highlighting his effective governance and the kingdom's flourishing under his rule.

Notable Quote:

"Wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions and honor. So such as none of the kings had who were before you and none after you shall have the like." – God to Solomon (02:10)

Psalms Reading: Psalm 17

Summary: Psalm 17 is presented as a heartfelt prayer of David, emphasizing themes of justice, protection, and unwavering faith in God's righteousness.

Key Points:

• Prayer for Vindication:
  David implores God to hear his plea and vindicate him against unjust accusations (02:33-03:59).

• Integrity and Righteous Living:
  He reflects on his commitment to God's word, avoiding deceit and violence, showcasing his moral integrity (03:00-03:59).

• Protection from Enemies:
  David seeks divine protection from adversaries, describing his enemies as violent and deceitful (03:59-04:01). He portrays God as a refuge and a shield against those who seek his downfall.

• Confidence in Divine Justice:
  The Psalm concludes with David's assurance that he will witness God's righteousness and be satisfied with His presence (04:01).

Notable Quote:

"With their mouths they speak arrogantly. They have now surrounded our steps. They set their eyes to cast us to the ground. He is like a lion, eager to tear, as a young lion lurking in ambush. Arise, O Lord, confront him, subdue him." – David (03:59)

New Testament Reading: Matthew 20

Summary: The sermon delves into Matthew 20, where Jesus teaches profound lessons on servanthood, generosity, and the reversal of worldly hierarchies through parables and direct teachings to His disciples.

Key Points:

1. Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16):

   • Theme of Generosity:
     Jesus tells a story about a landowner hiring laborers at different times of the day. Despite their varied hours, all receive the same wage, highlighting God's boundless generosity and the principle that "the last will be first, and the first last."
   • Human Perception vs. Divine Grace:
     The early workers' grumbling contrasts with the landowner's unwavering generosity, illustrating the difference between human expectations and God's grace (00:04:33 - 00:04:59).

   Notable Quote:

   "So the last will be first, and the first last." – Jesus (00:04:33)

2. Jesus Foretells His Death (Matthew 20:17-19):

   • Sovereignty of God's Plan:
     Jesus warns His disciples of His impending betrayal and crucifixion, emphasizing His obedience to the Father's will and the redemptive purpose of His suffering (00:04:59 - 00:05:33).

   Notable Quote:

   "The Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes...and he will be raised on the third day." – Jesus (00:04:59)

3. Request for Honor from the Mother of Zebedee's Sons (Matthew 20:20-28):

   • True Greatness Through Servanthood:
     The mother of James and John requests positions of honor for her sons. Jesus redirects their ambition, teaching that true greatness is achieved through humble service and sacrificial leadership (00:05:33 - 00:06:01).

   Notable Quote:

   "Whoever would be great among you must be your servant." – Jesus (00:05:50)

4. Healing of Two Blind Men (Matthew 20:29-34):

   • Compassion and Mercy:
     As Jesus proceeds to Jerusalem, He heals two blind men who earnestly seek His mercy. Their persistent faith and Jesus' compassionate response underscore the transformative power of divine intervention (00:06:01 - 00:06:34).

   Notable Quote:

   "Lord, let our eyes be opened." – Blind Men (00:06:21)

Insights and Reflections

Jackie Hill Perry's Commentary: Perry expounds on the interconnectedness of the Old and New Testament passages, emphasizing themes of leadership, integrity, servanthood, and divine generosity. She draws parallels between Solomon's request for wisdom and Jesus' teachings on humility and service, encouraging listeners to seek God's guidance in their personal and spiritual lives.

Key Reflections:

• Leadership and Wisdom:
  Just as Solomon sought wisdom to lead effectively, believers are encouraged to seek divine guidance to navigate life's complexities with integrity and compassion.

• Servanthood as Greatness:
  Jesus' teachings redefine greatness, urging a move away from self-centered ambition towards a life of humble service and sacrificial love.

• Divine Generosity vs. Human Expectations:
  The parable of the vineyard workers challenges listeners to embrace God's generosity, which often surpasses human notions of fairness and merit.

• Faith and Perseverance in Trials:
  The healing of the blind men exemplifies steadfast faith and the assurance that persistent seeking of God's mercy will lead to divine intervention and transformation.

Conclusion

This episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year" offers a rich tapestry of biblical narratives and teachings that speak to leadership, righteousness, humility, and the boundless grace of God. By weaving together the stories of Solomon, David, and Jesus, Jackie Hill Perry provides listeners with profound insights into living a life grounded in faith, integrity, and service. Whether you're journeying through the Bible or seeking deeper understanding, this episode serves as a compelling guide to embodying God's wisdom and love in everyday life.

End of Summary