Podcast Summary: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry
Episode: July 25, 2025
Scripture Readings:
- Old Testament: 2 Chronicles 19–20
- Psalms: Psalm 22:1–18
- New Testament: Matthew 27–28
Old Testament Focus: Leadership and Trust in God (2 Chronicles 19–20)
Overview:
In this segment, the podcast delves into the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah, highlighting his commitment to justice and reliance on God during times of crisis. Jehoshaphat's leadership is marked by his efforts to reform the judicial system and his unwavering faith when faced with imminent threats.
Key Points:
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Judicial Reforms: Jehoshaphat appoints judges across Judah's fortified cities, emphasizing that their judgment should be "from the Lord" and urging them to act with integrity.
"For you judge not from man, but for the Lord. He is with you in giving judgment." [00:51]
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Confronting Injustice: The prophet Jehu challenges Jehoshaphat, questioning his alliances and actions, yet acknowledges the king's heart for seeking God.
"Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord?" [00:04]
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Facing Invasion: A formidable alliance of Moabites, Ammonites, and others prepares to attack Judah. Faced with this threat, Jehoshaphat leads the nation in seeking divine guidance through fasting and assembly.
"Great multitude is coming against you from Edom from beyond the sea." [01:50]
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Divine Assurance: The prophet Jahaziel delivers a message of hope, assuring that the battle belongs to God. This divine intervention leads to a miraculous victory without Judah having to fight.
"Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed, for the battle is not yours but God's." [03:49]
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Aftermath and Reforms: Following their victory, Jehoshaphat's reign continues with both commendable acts and areas needing improvement, such as the persistence of high places—idolatrous worship sites.
"The high places, however, were not taken away." [06:36]
Notable Quote:
"Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours, but God's." – Jahaziel [03:47]
Psalms Reflection: A Prophet's Lament and Trust (Psalm 22:1–18)
Overview:
The podcast transitions to Psalm 22, a poignant lament attributed to David, which prophetically mirrors the suffering of Jesus. This Psalm captures the depth of anguish and abandonment felt during moments of intense trial, while also expressing unwavering trust in God's salvation.
Key Points:
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Expression of Despair: David begins with a heart-wrenching cry, feeling forsaken by God amidst severe distress.
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" [07:27]
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Acknowledgment of God's Holiness: Despite his suffering, David recognizes God's eternal nature and past faithfulness to the ancestors.
"Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel." [07:37]
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Physical and Emotional Torment: The Psalm vividly describes the speaker's physical pain and societal rejection, drawing a powerful parallel to the crucifixion of Jesus.
"My heart is like wax, it is melted within my breast." [08:34]
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Hope in God's Deliverance: Even in despair, there's a profound declaration of trust that God will ultimately rescue and redeem.
"He delights in him; yet you are he who took me from the womb." [08:32]
Notable Quote:
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" – David [07:27]
New Testament Insight: The Passion and Resurrection of Christ (Matthew 27–28)
Overview:
The podcast culminates with a detailed reading of Matthew chapters 27 and 28, narrating the crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This account emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy, the sacrificial love of Christ, and the triumphant hope of resurrection.
Key Points:
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Trial and Condemnation: Jesus faces a series of unjust trials before Pilate, leading to His crucifixion despite His innocence.
"You have said so." – Jesus in response to Pilate [10:11]
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Mockery and Suffering: As Jesus is crucified, He endures mockery from passersby and religious leaders, highlighting His role as the sacrificial Lamb.
"Hail, King of the Jews." – Soldiers mocking Jesus [12:03]
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Divine Signs: At the moment of Jesus' death, supernatural events occur, such as darkness covering the land and the temple curtain tearing, signifying the profound impact of His crucifixion.
"The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom." [14:08]
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Resurrection Victory: The narrative shifts to the resurrection, where Jesus rises from the dead, witnessed by women followers, and confirms His authority over all creation.
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." – Jesus [17:20]
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Great Commission: Post-resurrection, Jesus commands His disciples to spread the Gospel to all nations, promising His continual presence.
"Go and make disciples of all nations." [17:39]
Notable Quotes:
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." – Jesus [17:20]
"My God, why have you forsaken me?" – Jesus on the cross [13:42]
Themes and Insights
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Faith Amidst Trials:
Both Jehoshaphat's reliance on God during national crisis and David's trust amidst personal suffering underscore the importance of steadfast faith in adversity. -
Prophetic Fulfillment:
Psalm 22 serves as a prophetic lens through which the crucifixion of Jesus is viewed, illustrating the intricate connections between the Old and New Testaments. -
Divine Sovereignty and Salvation:
The episodes collectively highlight God's sovereignty over nations and individual lives, assuring believers of His ultimate plan for salvation and redemption. -
Leadership and Righteousness:
Jehoshaphat's leadership exemplifies righteous governance guided by divine principles, offering a model for ethical leadership today. -
Resurrection Hope:
The resurrection of Jesus encapsulates the triumph of life over death, providing eternal hope and affirming the promise of everlasting life for believers.
Conclusion
This episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year masterfully weaves together narratives from the Old and New Testaments, offering listeners a profound exploration of leadership, suffering, prophecy, and ultimate redemption through Christ. The inclusion of Psalm 22 bridges the Old and New, illustrating the continuity of God's plan and the fulfillment of His promises. Through detailed readings and carefully selected quotes, the episode invites both reflection and inspiration, reinforcing foundational Christian truths and encouraging faithful living.