Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry

Host: Crossway
Episode: November 27—Ezekiel 23; Psalm 119:153–160; 1 Thessalonians 1–2
Date: November 27, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode features daily readings from the ESV Bible, following the yearlong plan. Today's readings include Ezekiel 23 (Old Testament), Psalm 119:153–160 (Psalms), and 1 Thessalonians 1–2 (New Testament). The main theme revolves around the faithfulness and judgment of God in response to the unfaithfulness of his people (Ezekiel), reliance on God’s steadfast love (Psalms), and the encouragement and thanksgiving offered by Paul to the Thessalonian church (1 Thessalonians).

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Ezekiel 23: Allegory of Two Sisters—Aholah and Aholibah

[00:00–10:00]

• Allegorical Recount: God addresses Ezekiel, describing two sisters (Aholah = Samaria; Aholibah = Jerusalem) representing the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah.

• Unfaithfulness: Both sisters are depicted as being unfaithful, "played the whore," pursuing idolatrous relationships with foreign nations (Assyria for Samaria, Babylonia and Egypt for Jerusalem).

• Consequence of Idolatry: Their repeated infidelity leads to God's judgment. God permits the nations after whom they lusted to become their conquerors and executioners.

• Severity of Judgment: The sisters are judged with severe imagery—exposed, humiliated, and punished, illustrating the destructive consequences of spiritual adultery.

  Memorable Quote:
  "Because you have forgotten me and cast me behind your back, you yourself must bear the consequences of your lewdness and whoring."
  —God (as relayed through Ezekiel), [08:50]

• Theme:
  The passage underscores the seriousness with which God regards idolatry, using provocative imagery of infidelity to convey spiritual unfaithfulness. There’s also a clear call to recognize God’s justice—no sin is hidden or without consequence.

2. Psalm 119:153–160: Prayer for Deliverance in Affliction

[10:01–11:00]

• Prayer for Salvation:
  The psalmist pleads for God’s attention and deliverance:
  “Look on my affliction and deliver me, for I do not forget your law.” ([10:05])

• Appeal to God’s Character:
  This selection highlights steadfast reliance on God’s promises, statutes, and mercy.

• Contrast with the Wicked:
  Salvation is far from the wicked, illustrating the psalmist’s deep divide from those who disregard God’s commands.

• Endurance in Faith:
  Despite persecution, the psalmist remains committed to God’s word.

  Memorable Quote:
  “Great is your mercy, O Lord; give me life according to your rules.” ([10:26])

3. 1 Thessalonians 1–2: Thanksgiving, Encouragement, and Exemplary Faith

[11:01–19:30]

a. Thanksgiving and Assurance

• Paul’s Greeting:
  Paul, along with Silvanus and Timothy, addresses the Thessalonian church, expressing gratitude for their steadfastness, faith, and hope.

• Recognition of Transformation:
  The Thessalonians turned “to God from idols to serve the living and true God” and have become an inspiration for others ([13:50]).

• Endurance in Affliction:
  They received the gospel with joy even amidst suffering.

  Notable Quote:
  “For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere.” ([14:10])

b. Ministry Integrity and Sacrificial Love

• Sincerity of the Gospel Workers:
  Paul emphasizes that their ministry was not for personal gain but out of genuine love, free from “flattery” or a “pretext for greed” ([15:00]).

• Parental Imagery:
  The apostles acted “like a nursing mother...like a father with his children,” striving for holy conduct.

  Memorable Quote:
  “We were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” ([15:30])

c. Trials and Separation

• Suffering and Perseverance:
  Paul commends the Thessalonians for enduring persecution much like the churches in Judea, reminding them they share in Christ’s suffering.

• Longing for Reunion:
  Despite being “torn away...for a short time in person, not in heart,” Paul reaffirms his affection and hope to reunite.

  Closing Note:
  “For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy.”
  —Paul, [19:10]

Notable Quotes and Timestamps

• Ezekiel:
  “Because you have forgotten me and cast me behind your back, you yourself must bear the consequences of your lewdness and whoring.” —God, [08:50]
• Psalms:
  “Great is your mercy, O Lord; give me life according to your rules.” —Psalmist, [10:26]
• 1 Thessalonians:
  “We were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” —Paul, [15:30]
  “For what is our hope or joy or crown...Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy.” —Paul, [19:10]

Episode Flow & Tone

The episode follows a simple, reverent, and contemplative tone, focused on clear reading of scripture. The gravity of the Old Testament’s warnings is balanced by the psalmist's earnest prayers and Paul’s encouragement, making the episode richly layered for reflection.

Key Segments / Timestamps

• Ezekiel 23 Reading: [00:00–10:00]
• Psalm 119:153–160 Reading: [10:01–11:00]
• 1 Thessalonians 1–2 Reading: [11:01–19:30]

Summary

This episode traces the sobering consequences of spiritual unfaithfulness (Ezekiel), offers a heartfelt prayer for deliverance and steadfastness (Psalm), and celebrates a church’s vibrant faith in the face of adversity (Thessalonians). The readings invite listeners into serious reflection, hope, and gratitude.