Podcast Summary: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry
Episode: March 24 (Numbers 29–30; Psalm 77; John 19)
Release Date: March 24, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of "Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry," listeners are guided through three significant passages from the Bible: Numbers 29–30, Psalm 77, and John 19. Hosted by Crossway, this episode continues the daily journey through the Bible, offering profound insights and reflections to deepen one's understanding of Scripture.

Numbers 29–30: Rituals and Vows

Speaker: A (00:01)

The episode begins with a detailed reading from Numbers 29–30, focusing on the specific offerings and regulations prescribed for holy convocations during the seventh month.

Key Highlights:

• Holy Convocations (Numbers 29):
  The readings outline the various sacrifices required on the 1st, 10th, 15th, and subsequent days of the seventh month. Each day demands specific numbers of bulls, rams, lambs, and grain offerings to create a "pleasing aroma to the Lord" (00:15).

  "You shall offer a burnt offering, a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the Lord." – Numbers 29:12 (00:45)

• Vows and Pledges (Numbers 30):
  This section delves into the importance of keeping vows made to the Lord. It emphasizes the responsibilities of both men and women in fulfilling their commitments and the role of fathers and husbands in affirming or nullifying these vows.

  "If a man vows a vow to the Lord or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word." – Numbers 30:2 (15:30)

• Authority and Accountability:
  The readings highlight the societal and familial structures that support the sanctity of vows, ensuring that personal commitments are upheld with integrity.

Psalm 77: A Cry for Help and Reflection on God's Deeds

Speaker: Choirmaster according to Jeduthen (25:00)

The podcast transitions to a poignant reading of Psalm 77, a heartfelt prayer by Asaph that captures a mix of anguish, doubt, and unwavering faith in God.

Key Highlights:

• Expression of Distress:
  The psalmist begins by vocalizing deep sorrow and confusion, seeking God's presence during times of trouble.

  "I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me." – Psalm 77:1 (25:15)

• Remembering God's Past Deeds:
  In his distress, Asaph reflects on God's mighty works and steadfast love, using memories of past miracles as a foundation for his hope.

  "I will remember your deeds of old; yes, I will remember your wonders of long ago." – Psalm 77:11 (26:45)

• Trust Amidst Doubt:
  The psalm balances human doubt with profound trust, illustrating the struggle between questioning and relying on God's eternal faithfulness.

  "Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger shut up his compassion? Selah." – Psalm 77:11-12 (27:30)

John 19: The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ

Speaker: A (35:00)

The episode concludes with a reading from John 19, which provides a vivid account of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His sacrifice and the fulfillment of prophetic Scriptures.

Key Highlights:

• Mockery and Suffering:
  Soldiers mock Jesus by placing a crown of thorns on His head and dressing Him in a purple robe, ridiculing Him as the "King of the Jews."

  "They came up to him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' and struck him with their hands." – John 19:3 (35:15)

• Pilate's Reluctance:
  Pontius Pilate attempts to release Jesus, finding no fault in Him, but succumbs to the crowd's demands for crucifixion.

  "Pilate went out again and said to them, 'See, I am bringing him out to you that you may know that I find no guilt in him.'" – John 19:5 (36:10)

• The Crucifixion Scene:
  The narrative details the physical torment endured by Jesus, including the breaking of the legs of other crucified individuals and the piercing of Jesus' side, resulting in "blood and water."

  "When they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs... But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear." – John 19:33-34 (38:25)

• Fulfillment of Scripture:
  Jesus' death is portrayed as the fulfillment of prophetic Scripture, underscoring the divine plan of salvation.

  "Not one of his bones will be broken... they will look on him whom they have pierced." – John 19:36-37 (40:50)

• The Burial of Jesus:
  Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus take responsibility for Jesus' burial, ensuring His body is respectfully laid to rest in a new tomb, adhering to Jewish customs.

  "So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews." – John 19:40 (45:00)

Conclusion

This episode offers a profound journey through pivotal biblical passages, from the meticulous laws in Numbers, the heartfelt prayers in Psalm 77, to the solemn and redemptive account of Jesus' crucifixion in John 19. Jackie Hill Perry, through Crossway's presentation, provides listeners with a comprehensive and reflective exploration of these scriptures, encouraging a deeper connection with God's Word throughout the year.

Notable Quotes:

• "You shall offer a burnt offering, a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the Lord." – Numbers 29:12 (00:45)
• "If a man vows a vow to the Lord or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word." – Numbers 30:2 (15:30)
• "I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me." – Psalm 77:1 (25:15)
• "They came up to him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' and struck him with their hands." – John 19:3 (35:15)
• "Not one of his bones will be broken... they will look on him whom they have pierced." – John 19:36-37 (40:50)

This structured and detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the March 24 episode, providing listeners—both regular and new—with a clear understanding of the day's biblical readings and their significance within the broader context of the Christian faith.