Podcast Summary: Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry Episode: May 24 Scripture Readings: 2 Samuel 3–4; Psalm 119:113–120; Ephesians 5–6 Release Date: May 24, 2025 Host/Author: Crossway

Introduction

In today's episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year, hosted by Crossway and featuring bestselling author Jackie Hill Perry, listeners are guided through significant passages from the Old and New Testaments. The readings include 2 Samuel 3–4, Psalm 119:113–120, and Ephesians 5–6. Jackie Hill Perry provides insightful commentary, drawing connections between the historical narratives, poetic expressions, and practical Christian living instructions presented in these scriptures.

Old Testament Reading: 2 Samuel 3–4

Abner’s Allegiance and Betrayal

The episode begins with Jackie Hill Perry delving into 2 Samuel 3–4, which chronicles the tumultuous period of war between the house of Saul and the house of David. David's growing strength contrasts sharply with Saul's declining power. Abner, Saul's esteemed general, becomes a pivotal figure in this narrative.

• Abner’s Loyalty Questioned: Abner faces criticism from Ishbosheth, Saul’s son, concerning his relationship with Saul’s concubine, Rizbah. Abner defends his loyalty, stating, "Am I a dog's head of Judah to this day I keep showing steadfast love to the house of Saul..." (00:45).

• Abner’s Defection: Despite tensions, Abner initiates peace by proposing a covenant with David to unify Israel under his kingship. David agrees, stipulating the return of Michal, Saul’s daughter, as a gesture of goodwill.

• Joab’s Deception and Abner’s Death: Upon Abner's departure from Hebron, Joab, David’s military commander, harbors suspicions about Abner’s intentions. Acting deceitfully, Joab orchestrates Abner's assassination, striking him privately in the gate (12:30). This act of betrayal stems from Abner’s previous killing of Asahel, Joab’s brother.

• David’s Response: Upon learning of Abner’s death, David publicly mourns, distancing himself from the murder and expressing grief: "King David followed the bier and wept at the grave of Abner" (18:15).

Ishbosheth’s Demise

The narrative continues with Ishbosheth’s vulnerability following his father's death. His capital is attacked by Rechab and Baanah, who kill him in his own home. Proudly, they present his head to David as a token of his end (25:00).

• David’s Judgment: David condemns the murderers, emphasizing the sanctity of righteous life: "When wicked men have killed a righteous man in his own house on his bed, shall I not now require his blood at your hands and destroy you from the earth?" (30:20). Consequently, Rechab and Baanah face severe punishment, underscoring David’s commitment to justice.

Psalms Reading: Psalm 119:113–120

Jackie transitions to Psalm 119:113–120, a segment that reflects deep reverence for God's law and a plea for divine guidance.

• Love for God’s Law: The psalmist declares, "I hate the double-minded, but I love your law." (33:00), highlighting a steadfast commitment to God's commandments over wavering loyalties.

• Seeking Protection and Guidance: Expressions such as "You are my hiding place and my shield" (34:10) and "Hold me up that I may be safe" (40:05) emphasize reliance on God's protection and adherence to His statutes.

• Rejection of Wickedness: The psalmist calls for evildoers to depart, affirming, "Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commandments of my God" (36:50). This showcases a desire to remain pure and focused on righteousness.

New Testament Reading: Ephesians 5–6

The final segment of the episode covers Ephesians 5–6, where Apostle Paul provides comprehensive instructions for Christian living, emphasizing relationships and spiritual warfare.

Living as Imitators of God (Ephesians 5)

• Imitating God and Walking in Love: Paul urges believers to "be imitators of God as beloved children, and walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us" (5:1-2).

• Avoiding Immorality and Embracing Purity: The admonition against sexual immorality and impurity is strong: "sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you" (5:3).

• Speaking with Grace: Instead of crude or foolish talk, Paul encourages "thanksgiving" and gracious communication (5:4).

Instructions for Various Relationships (Ephesians 5:21–6:9)

• Marriage: Detailed guidance is provided for wives and husbands. Wives are called to submit to their husbands as to the Lord, while husbands are instructed to love their wives sacrificially, mirroring Christ’s love for the church (5:22-33).

• Children and Parents: Children are told to obey their parents in the Lord, and fathers are cautioned against provoking their children, instead instructing them in the Lord’s discipline (6:1-4).

• Bondservants and Masters: Instructions extend to bondservants and masters, emphasizing sincere service and fair treatment, recognizing their ultimate accountability to God (6:5-9).

The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10–20)

• Spiritual Warfare: Paul portrays the Christian life as a battle against spiritual forces, urging believers to "put on the whole armor of God" to withstand evil (6:11).

• Components of the Armor:

  • Belt of Truth: Represents integrity and truthfulness.
  • Breastplate of Righteousness: Denotes living a righteous life.
  • Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: Readiness to spread the gospel.
  • Shield of Faith: Protection against doubts and fears.
  • Helmet of Salvation: Assurance of salvation protecting the mind.
  • Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God as an offensive tool (6:13-17).

• Prayer and Perseverance: Continuous prayer and vigilance are stressed as essential for maintaining spiritual strength and receiving divine guidance (6:18-20).

Insights and Reflections

Jackie Hill Perry synthesizes the readings, drawing parallels between the Old Testament narratives and New Testament teachings:

• Leadership and Integrity: The tragic downfall of Abner serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of betrayal and the importance of integrity in leadership roles.

• Commitment to God’s Law: The Psalm emphasizes the necessity of unwavering dedication to God's commandments, mirroring the New Testament's call to live righteously and uphold moral standards.

• Relational Harmony and Authority: Ephesians outlines a complex web of relationships within the Christian community, advocating for mutual respect, love, and obedience underpinned by spiritual authority and divine guidance.

• Spiritual Preparedness: The Armor of God metaphor encapsulates the holistic approach believers must take in safeguarding their faith and combating spiritual adversities.

Conclusions

This episode of Through the ESV Bible in a Year offers a profound exploration of biblical passages that collectively underscore themes of leadership, integrity, commitment to divine law, and the intricate dynamics of Christian relationships. Through detailed readings and thoughtful commentary, Jackie Hill Perry invites listeners to reflect on their personal walk with God, the importance of righteous living, and the spiritual armament necessary to navigate the challenges of the world.

Listeners are encouraged to consider how the historical lessons from 2 Samuel inform their understanding of leadership and betrayal, how Psalm 119 reinforces the value of steadfastness in faith, and how the teachings in Ephesians provide a blueprint for harmonious and spiritually robust living.

Notable Quotes:

• "Am I a dog's head of Judah to this day I keep showing steadfast love to the house of Saul..." – Abner responding to Ishbosheth (00:45)

• "When wicked men have killed a righteous man in his own house on his bed, shall I not now require his blood at your hands and destroy you from the earth?" – David addressing Rechab and Baanah (30:20)

• "Be imitators of God as beloved children, and walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us" – Ephesians 5:1-2 (5:1)

• "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil" – Ephesians 6:11 (6:11)

Final Thoughts

This episode serves as a compelling reminder of the enduring relevance of biblical teachings. Whether navigating personal relationships, leadership challenges, or spiritual battles, the scriptures read and discussed today offer timeless wisdom and guidance. Jackie Hill Perry's insightful analysis makes these ancient texts accessible and applicable to modern life, encouraging listeners to deepen their faith and live out their beliefs with conviction and love.