Podcast Title: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry
Host/Author: Crossway
Episode: June 1
Scripture Readings:
- Old Testament: 2 Samuel 20–21
- Psalms: Psalm 120
- New Testament: 2 Thessalonians 2–3
Release Date: June 1, 2025
Introduction
In the June 1 episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry," listeners embark on a profound journey through selected scriptures, providing daily readings that span the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament. This episode delves into 2 Samuel chapters 20 and 21, Psalm 120, and 2 Thessalonians chapters 2 and 3. Each passage is meticulously read and presented by speakers A and B, offering a comprehensive exploration of biblical narratives, poetic reflections, and apostolic teachings.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Samuel 20–21
Speaker A begins the episode with a detailed reading from 2 Samuel 20–21, capturing the tumultuous period in King David's reign marked by rebellion, political intrigue, and divine intervention.
Key Events and Themes:
-
The Rebellion of Sheba (2 Samuel 20):
- A Benjaminite named Sheba incites a revolt against King David, leading many men of Israel to withdraw their allegiance. Only the men of Judah remain steadfast, following David to Jerusalem.
- Quote [00:01-00:45]:
"We have no portion in David, and we have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. Every man to his tents, O Israel." – Speaker A
-
Joab’s Assassination of Amasa:
- David instructs Amasa to summon the men of Judah. However, Amasa delays, prompting David to distrust his loyalty, comparing Sheba's threat to that of Absalom.
- Joab, David's military commander, encounters Amasa and deceitfully kills him, seizing command of the army.
- Quote [00:45-00:49]:
"Now Sheba the son of Bichri will do us more harm than Absalom." – Speaker A
-
Siege of Abel of Beth Maicah:
- Sheba flees to Abel of Beth Maicah, where Joab’s forces besiege the city. A wise woman intervenes, negotiating peace by offering Sheba’s head, leading to the dispersal of Sheba’s followers.
- Quote [02:15-02:30]:
"Why will you swallow up the heritage of the Lord?" – Speaker A
-
Famine and Atonement (2 Samuel 21):
- A three-year famine afflicts Israel. David seeks the Lord, who reveals that the blood guilt against Saul’s house must be addressed.
- David fulfills previous oaths by handing over seven of Saul’s descendants to the Gibeonites, who execute them as atonement.
- Quote [05:00-05:15]:
"Let seven of his sons be given to us so that we may hang them before the Lord." – Speaker A
-
Battles Against the Philistines:
- Following the atonement, hostilities with the Philistines resume. Key figures like Abishai and Jonathan play pivotal roles in defending Israel, defeating formidable adversaries descended from giants.
- Quote [09:30-09:45]:
"If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat." – Speaker A
Insights:
The readings highlight themes of loyalty, leadership, and divine justice. David's complex character is portrayed through his political maneuvers and dedication to upholding divine commandments, even when it involves personal loss and national strife.
Psalms Reading: Psalm 120
Speaker A transitions to a poetic reflection with Psalm 120, a prayer expressing distress and pleading for deliverance from deceit and conflict.
Key Themes:
-
Cry for Help:
- The Psalmist vividly describes personal anguish and a desperate call for God's intervention.
- Quote [07:45-07:47]:
"Lord, and he answered me, Deliver me." – Speaker B
-
Condemnation of Deceit:
- A plea against deceitful tongues and harmful speech, emphasizing the desire for truth and righteousness.
- Quote [07:50-07:51]:
"What shall be given to you? And what more shall be done to you, you deceitful tongue?" – Speaker B
-
Desire for Peace:
- The Psalmist expresses a longing to dwell in peaceful surroundings, away from those who wage war and foster hatred.
- Quote [08:07-08:09]:
"I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war." – Speaker B
Insights:
Psalm 120 serves as a heartfelt lament, capturing the universal human experience of seeking divine assistance amidst adversity and deceit. It underscores the importance of authentic communication and the quest for peace.
New Testament Reading: 2 Thessalonians 2–3
Speaker B concludes the episode with an in-depth reading from 2 Thessalonians 2 and 3, where Apostle Paul addresses eschatological concerns and provides practical exhortations for Christian conduct.
Key Themes:
-
Clarification on the Day of the Lord (2 Thessalonians 2):
- Paul warns against misconceptions regarding the imminent return of Christ, emphasizing that certain events, like the revelation of the lawless one, must precede it.
- Quote [08:16-08:30]:
"Let no one deceive you in any way, for that day will not come unless the rebellion comes first." – Speaker B
-
The Man of Lawlessness:
- Description of a future antagonist who opposes and exalts himself above all that is worshiped, ultimately to be destroyed by Christ.
- Quote [08:40-08:55]:
"The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders and with all wicked deception." – Speaker B
-
Encouragement and Perseverance (2 Thessalonians 3):
- Paul commends the Thessalonians for their steadfastness and urges them to continue in good works, warning against idleness and encouraging self-sufficiency.
- Quote [09:00-09:15]:
"Do not grow weary in doing good. If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person and have nothing to do with them, that he may be ashamed." – Speaker B
-
Community Conduct:
- Instructions on maintaining unity, discipline, and exemplary behavior within the Christian community.
- Quote [09:30-09:45]:
"If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat." – Speaker B
Insights:
Paul's epistle addresses both theological misunderstandings and practical behaviors necessary for a thriving Christian community. The emphasis on discernment, steadfastness in faith, and mutual support reflects the challenges faced by early Christians and offers timeless guidance.
Conclusion
The June 1 episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry" provides listeners with a rich tapestry of biblical narratives and teachings. From the political and spiritual struggles in 2 Samuel, the heartfelt pleas in Psalm 120, to the prophetic and practical exhortations in 2 Thessalonians, each reading offers profound insights into faith, leadership, and community. By weaving together these scriptures, the episode encourages believers to navigate their spiritual journeys with wisdom, resilience, and unwavering devotion to God's word.
Listeners who engage with this episode will find themselves immersed in the depth and diversity of the Bible, gaining a deeper understanding of its timeless messages and their application in contemporary life.