Through the ESV Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry

Episode: November 29, 2025 — Ezekiel 27–28; Psalm 119:169–176; 2 Thessalonians 1

Episode Overview

This episode continues the year-long journey through the Bible, featuring readings from Ezekiel 27–28, Psalm 119:169–176, and 2 Thessalonians 1. Today’s focus is on themes of pride and downfall (Tyre’s lament), the longing for God and his help (Psalm 119), and encouragement amid suffering with hope in Christ’s ultimate justice (2 Thessalonians 1).

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Lament Over Tyre and Its King (Ezekiel 27–28)

• Tyre’s Commercial Glory and Tragic Downfall (00:00–08:40)

  • The passage begins with a sweeping, poetic lament for the city of Tyre, a major trading hub described in rich, maritime imagery.
  • Tyre’s pride is illustrated through descriptions of its perfect beauty, skilled workmanship, and vast wealth amassed via global trade.
  • The text lists nations and regions involved with Tyre—showcasing the city’s international influence and prosperity.
  • Memorable Moment:
    • “You have come to a dreadful end and shall be no more forever.” (07:45)
      • The city’s utter destruction is presented as inevitable and final—a consequence of its pride.

• Condemnation of the Prince and King of Tyre (08:41–14:00)

  • The Lord rebukes the ruler of Tyre for his arrogance, likening him to someone who thinks himself a god.
  • Divine judgment is pronounced: foreign invaders will destroy Tyre, showing the ruler his mortality.
  • A second lament addresses the “King of Tyre” in language that echoes both earthly pride and deeper imagery—possibly of a fallen heavenly being (a “guardian cherub”).
    • Notable Quote:
      • “You were the signet of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty... you were in Eden, the garden of God... till unrighteousness was found in you.” (09:40–10:20)

• Judgment of Sidon and Promise to Israel (14:01–16:00)

  • Ezekiel shifts to a prophecy against Sidon, promising God’s glory will be shown in its judgment.
  • God promises to gather Israel, restore them to their land, and protect them from contemptuous neighbors.
    • “They shall dwell securely... Then they will know that I am the Lord, their God.” (15:50)

2. A Cry for Understanding and Deliverance (Psalm 119:169–176)

• (16:01–17:10)
  • The psalmist’s closing section is a heartfelt plea for God’s attention, guidance, and salvation.
  • Emphasizes the value of God’s word and statutes:
    • “Let my cry come before you, O Lord. Give me understanding according to your word.” (16:05)
    • The metaphor of the “lost sheep” underscores both humility and complete dependence on God:
      • “I have gone astray like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I do not forget your commandments.” (17:02)

3. Steadfast Faith and the Justice of Christ (2 Thessalonians 1)

• Paul’s Encouragement in Persecution (17:11–21:05)
  • Paul, with Silvanus and Timothy, writes to the Thessalonian church acknowledging their growing faith and increasing love amidst persecution.
    • Key Quote:
      • “Therefore we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God for your steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions that you are enduring.” (18:00)
  • Paul frames their suffering as evidence of being “considered worthy of the kingdom of God.”
  • God’s justice is promised: those who afflict the believers will face retribution, and relief will come to the faithful when Jesus returns with his angels.
    • “When the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God…” (19:15)
  • Paul concludes with a prayer for God to empower the Thessalonians’ “resolve for good and every work of faith,” aiming for Christ’s glory in them and through them.
    • “So that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (20:50)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Passages

• Ezekiel on Tyre’s Downfall:

  • “At the sound of the cry of your pilots, the countryside shakes… you have come to a dreadful end and shall be no more forever.” (07:30–07:45)

• On Human Pride:

  • “You have said, I am a God… yet you are but a man and no God.” (08:55)

• The Humble Plea of the Psalmist:

  • “Let my plea come before you; deliver me according to your word. My lips will pour forth praise, for you teach me your statutes.” (16:30)

• Paul on Suffering and Glory:

  • “This is evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God for which you are also suffering.” (18:20)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Ezekiel 27–28: Tyre’s Lament and Judgment — 00:00–16:00
• Psalm 119:169–176: Plea for Understanding and Rescue — 16:01–17:10
• 2 Thessalonians 1: Perseverance in Suffering; Future Glory and Justice — 17:11–21:05

Episode Themes in Summary

• Warning Against Pride: Tyre’s fate is a solemn warning about the danger of pride and self-exaltation before God.
• God’s Faithfulness to His People: In judgment and in restoration, God’s commitment to His people and His justice are central.
• Longing for God’s Wisdom: Psalm 119’s final verses model both humility and delight in God’s teachings.
• Hope Amid Persecution: Paul’s message in 2 Thessalonians underscores that suffering for Christ displays faith’s depth and will be answered by divine justice and future glory.

This episode weaves together stories of warning, humility, and encouragement, reminding listeners of God’s sovereignty in history and in personal faith journeys.