Summary of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry" – June 26, 2025

In the June 26th episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry," listeners embark on a spiritual journey through significant biblical passages from the Old Testament, Psalms, and the New Testament. This episode features readings from 2 Kings 18, Psalm 145, and Revelation 7–9, providing a blend of historical narrative, heartfelt worship, and prophetic vision.

Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 18 (00:01 – 05:56)

Overview: The episode begins with a detailed reading of 2 Kings 18, which chronicles the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. Hezekiah is depicted as a righteous leader who faithfully follows God's commandments, leading significant religious reforms and confronting external threats.

Key Points:

• Hezekiah’s Commitment to God (00:13):
  "Hezekiah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, according to all that David his father had done."
  Hezekiah's dedication is highlighted by his removal of idolatrous practices: "He removed the high places and broke the pillars and cut down the Asherah" ([00:13]).

• Military Success and Political Challenges (00:55 – 01:28):
  Despite his faithfulness, Hezekiah faces significant challenges, including rebellion against the Assyrian king Sennacherib. The Assyrian siege of Samaria and eventual capture of the Israelites underscores the geopolitical tensions of the time ([00:55]).

• Hezekiah’s Diplomacy and Assyrian Demands (01:58 – 03:42):
  In an attempt to prevent further destruction, Hezekiah sends extensive gifts to Assyria, including gold from the temple doors. The Assyrian emissary, the Rabshakeh, confronts Hezekiah, challenging his trust in God versus reliance on Egypt:
  "Do not let Hezekiah deceive you, for he will not be able to deliver you out of my hand... If you say to me, we trust in the Lord our God, is it not he whose high places and altars Hezekiah has removed?" ([03:10] – [05:09]).

• Emissary’s Challenge and Public Reaction (04:24 – 05:56):
  The Rabshakeh’s speech aims to sow doubt among the Israelites about Hezekiah’s reliance on God, asserting Assyria’s might and the futility of opposing them. The people remain silent, adhering to the king’s directive not to respond ([04:24] – [05:56]).

Notable Quote:

"He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord" ([00:13])

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 145 (05:56 – 09:30)

Overview: Transitioning to the heart of worship, Psalm 145 serves as a lyrical celebration of God's greatness, mercy, and unwavering faithfulness. This psalm invites believers to continually praise and exalt God's eternal reign.

Key Themes:

• Eternal Praise (05:56 – 06:10):
  "I will extol you, my God and king, and bless your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever."

• God’s Unsearchable Greatness (06:11 – 06:21):
  "Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised; his greatness is unsearchable."

• Generational Worship (06:22 – 07:09):
  Emphasizing the transmission of worship, the psalmist proclaims that "One generation shall commend your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts."

• God’s Righteousness and Provision (07:10 – 08:09):
  Highlighting God's just nature and His provision: "The Lord is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works."

• Hope and Comfort (08:10 – 09:30):
  The psalm concludes with assurances of God's protection and eternal kingship: "They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more... God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."

Notable Quote:

"Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised" ([06:00])

New Testament Reading: Revelation 7–9 (09:31 – 25:30)

Overview: The episode culminates with an in-depth reading of Revelation 7–9, which unveils the sealing of the 144,000 servants of God and the initiation of the seven trumpet judgments. These chapters depict a vision of divine protection amidst impending tribulations.

Key Points:

• Sealing of the 144,000 (Revelation 7) (09:31 – 11:05):
  Description of 144,000 individuals sealed from each tribe of Israel, signifying God's protection over His chosen people:
  "The number of the sealed, 144,000 sealed from every tribe of the sons of Israel..." ([10:35]).

• The Great Multitude (Revelation 7:9 – 17) (11:06 – 12:20):
  A vast, uncountable multitude from every nation stands before the throne, symbolizing the redeemed community:
  "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." ([21:05]).

• Opening of the Seven Trumpets (Revelation 8 – 9) (12:21 – 25:30):
  Each trumpet unleashes a specific judgment upon the earth:

  • First Trumpet ([14:35]): Hail and fire mixed with blood destroy a third of the earth, trees, and grass.
  • Second Trumpet ([17:15]): A burning mountain thrown into the sea turns a third into blood, killing sea life and ships.
  • Third Trumpet ([21:25]): The fall of the star Wormwood contaminates a third of the waters, causing deaths from bitterened water.
  • Fourth Trumpet ([23:06]): A third of the sun, moon, and stars are struck, darkening a third of day and night.
  • Fifth Trumpet – The Locust Plague ([20:05]): Emergence of locusts from the bottomless pit torment those without God's seal for five months.
  • Sixth Trumpet – Release of the Four Angels ([24:05]): Four angels kill a third of mankind with fire, smoke, and sulfur.

Notable Quotes:

"Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth at the blasts of the other trumpets" ([24:02])

"Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." ([21:05])

Conclusion

This episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year" offers listeners a profound exploration of biblical narratives and prophecies. From King Hezekiah’s steadfast faith and leadership in 2 Kings 18, through the exuberant praise in Psalm 145, to the intense prophetic visions in Revelation 7–9, Jackie Hill Perry guides us through themes of faithfulness, worship, divine judgment, and redemption. The inclusion of notable quotes with timestamps enhances the listener's engagement, making the scriptures both accessible and impactful for personal reflection and spiritual growth.

Notable Quotes Recap:

• "He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord." ([00:13])
• "Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised." ([06:00])
• "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." ([21:05])
• "Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth at the blasts of the other trumpets." ([24:02])

This structured summary captures the essence of the podcast episode, providing insights into each scripture reading while highlighting key themes and memorable quotes for those who haven't listened.