Podcast Title: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry
Host/Author: Crossway
Episode: July 31, 2025
Scripture Readings:

• Old Testament: 2 Chronicles 33–34
• Psalm: Psalm 27
• New Testament: Mark 6

Introduction

In this episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry, listeners embark on a spiritual journey through selected passages from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament. The readings for July 31 focus on the tumultuous reign of King Manasseh and King Josiah in 2 Chronicles 33–34, the heartfelt pleas and praises in Psalm 27, and the powerful teachings and miracles of Jesus in Mark 6.

Old Testament Reading: 2 Chronicles 33–34

Speaker: Reader
Timestamp: [00:01] – [16:20]

Summary

The episode begins with a detailed narration of 2 Chronicles 33–34, which chronicles the reigns of two significant kings of Judah: Manasseh and Josiah.

• King Manasseh (2 Chronicles 33):
  Manasseh ascended to the throne at the age of 12 and ruled for 55 years in Jerusalem. His reign was marked by extreme wickedness; he rebuilt high places destroyed by his father, Hezekiah, and erected altars to Baal and other idols within the Temple of the Lord, directly violating God's commandments. Manasseh's practices included child sacrifice, fortune-telling, and sorcery, which provoked God's anger. However, in his distress after being captured by the Assyrians and taken to Babylon, Manasseh humbled himself, prayed, and was restored to Jerusalem, leading him to remove foreign gods and restore the altar of the Lord (2 Chronicles 33:1-20).

• King Ammon (2 Chronicles 33:21–25):
  Following Manasseh, his son Ammon reigned for two years and continued his father's evil ways, failing to humble himself before God. His reign ended when his servants conspired against him, leading to his death.

• King Josiah (2 Chronicles 34):
  Josiah became king at the age of 8 and ruled for 31 years. Unlike his predecessors, he sought the Lord from a young age and diligently worked to purge Judah and Jerusalem of idolatry. In his 18th year, Josiah initiated significant temple renovations and reforms, rediscovering the Book of the Law during the restoration. His response to the newfound Scriptures was one of profound repentance and covenant renewal, leading the people to commit wholly to serving the Lord. Josiah's reforms marked a pivotal return to faithfulness in Judah (2 Chronicles 34:1-35).

Notable Quotes

• Reader at [05:20]:
  "Manasseh led Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem astray to do more evil than the nations whom the Lord destroyed before the people of Israel."

• Reader at [14:50]:
  "When the king heard the words of the law, he tore his clothes."

• Reader at [16:21]:
  "All his days they did not turn away from following the Lord, the God of their fathers."

Psalm 27: A Prayer for Guidance and Protection

Speaker: Congregation
Timestamp: [09:15] – [10:53]

Summary

The congregation delivers an impassioned rendition of Psalm 27, attributed to King David. This Psalm is a profound expression of trust and confidence in God amidst adversity. David articulates his unwavering faith, seeking God's presence and protection against his enemies. The Psalm emphasizes themes of seeking God’s guidance, finding refuge in Him, and maintaining courage despite challenges.

Notable Quotes

• Congregation at [09:15]:
  "The Lord is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life. Of whom shall I be afraid when evildoers assail me..."

• Congregation at [09:36]:
  "One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after that: I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life..."

• Congregation at [10:53]:
  "Wait for the Lord. Be strong, and let your heart take courage. Wait for the Lord."

New Testament Reading: Mark 6 - The Ministry of Jesus

Speaker: Congregation
Timestamp: [10:53] – [16:21]

Summary

The episode transitions to the New Testament with a reading from Mark 6, which details significant events in Jesus' ministry, including His return to Nazareth, the commissioning of the twelve disciples, the feeding of the five thousand, and the miraculous walking on water.

• Jesus in His Hometown (Mark 6:1-6):
  Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth, teaching in the synagogue. Despite His wisdom and mighty works, the locals are skeptical, questioning His authority as "the carpenter, the son of Mary." Due to their unbelief, Jesus performs only a few healings there.

• The Twelve Disciples Sent Out (Mark 6:7-13):
  Jesus appoints the twelve apostles, empowering them with authority over unclean spirits. He instructs them to travel light, stay in designated homes, and preach repentance. They successfully cast out many demons and heal the sick.

• The Death of John the Baptist (Mark 6:14-29):
  King Herod, troubled by the news of Jesus' miracles, hears that John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, leading to various speculations about Jesus' identity. Herodias, harboring resentment towards John for his rebukes, persuades her daughter to request his head at Herod's birthday banquet. Bound by his oath, Herod reluctantly orders John's execution.

• Feeding the Five Thousand (Mark 6:30-44):
  After reporting their deeds, the apostles return to Jesus, who retreats to a solitary place. However, a large crowd follows Him. When evening approaches, and the disciples worry about feeding the multitude, Jesus miraculously multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed over five thousand men, demonstrating divine provision.

• Jesus Walks on Water (Mark 6:45-52):
  After sending the disciples ahead by boat, Jesus walks on the Sea of Galilee to reach them. Initially mistaken for a ghost, He reassures them, and the storm subsides upon His arrival. Despite the miraculous nature of His works, the disciples struggle to comprehend their significance fully.

• Healing Many (Mark 6:53-56):
  Upon reaching Gennesaret, Jesus is recognized by the people who bring the sick to Him on their beds. Touching even the fringe of His garments results in their healing, showcasing His compassionate power.

Notable Quotes

• Congregation at [13:45]:
  "Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?"

• Congregation at [14:30]:
  "You give them something to eat."

• Congregation at [15:10]:
  "How many loaves do you have? Go and see. And when they had found out, they said, five and two fish."

• Congregation at [16:00]:
  "Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid."

Conclusion

This episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry offers a compelling exploration of faithfulness and God's providence through the contrasting reigns of Kings Manasseh and Josiah, the deep trust expressed in Psalm 27, and the miraculous deeds of Jesus in Mark 6. The readings collectively underscore themes of repentance, divine intervention, and unwavering faith amidst trials, providing listeners with rich biblical insights to reflect upon in their spiritual journey.